Dear Family,
My last zone conference was great. Didn't wanna give my departing
testimony but it was good anyway. We learned a lot about teaching with
power and working with members. Also had a district leader training
meeting after zone conference so I spent 13 hours at the mission
office in 2 days. We had a great lesson about acts 27 and how it
relates to good leadership. Learned a lot of good things.
Our area is picking up! We found a lady this past week who came to
church yesterday. We are trying to meet with her boyfriend too since
he is interested. The challenge though is that she is pregnant and is
due in 3 weeks! She doesn't feel good a majority of the time but she
is going great! While on exchanges too, they found a family of 3. We
have another lesson with them tonight.
Our mission is doing better and better. Our numbers keep on
increasing which is great and a lot of the newer missionaries are
getting more and more motivated.
Thats kinda it. Just sat in a bunch of meetings. Love y'all!
Elder Parks
Sunday, November 24, 2013
November 11, 2013
Dear Family,
Well I still have the same companion. We haven't received a phone
call yet regarding his visa so he is still with me for a little more.
We still have no word on facebook or chapel tours or ipads or
iphones. Hopefully that starts when I'm gone. Just seems like too much
to get used to for me. And no mom I haven't finished eating all the
candy yet!
We have zone conference this week on wednesday, which means its my
last zone conference. I'll have to give my departing testimony this
time which is scary because I remember seeing my trainer do the same
thing and not thinking that it would come this soon. Kinda goes fast.
I hate growing up!
Not too much to report on. We've been doing everything we can,
everything that I know how to do. We're kinda just waiting on the Lord
right now, just still working hard though. Something will come up
though, it always does. President Chambers keeps telling me he has
full confidence in me which is nice.
That's it for now! Just managing the district and all! I'm not
trunky though! I'm not counting down the days so don't worry because
I'm still focused! Love y'all!
Elder Parks
Well I still have the same companion. We haven't received a phone
call yet regarding his visa so he is still with me for a little more.
We still have no word on facebook or chapel tours or ipads or
iphones. Hopefully that starts when I'm gone. Just seems like too much
to get used to for me. And no mom I haven't finished eating all the
candy yet!
We have zone conference this week on wednesday, which means its my
last zone conference. I'll have to give my departing testimony this
time which is scary because I remember seeing my trainer do the same
thing and not thinking that it would come this soon. Kinda goes fast.
I hate growing up!
Not too much to report on. We've been doing everything we can,
everything that I know how to do. We're kinda just waiting on the Lord
right now, just still working hard though. Something will come up
though, it always does. President Chambers keeps telling me he has
full confidence in me which is nice.
That's it for now! Just managing the district and all! I'm not
trunky though! I'm not counting down the days so don't worry because
I'm still focused! Love y'all!
Elder Parks
November 4, 2013
Dear Family,
Another slow week but we're starting to get to know the members. We
spoke to a Navajo family the other day. Still can see very clear on
how they keep practicing the traditions of their parents and aren't
fond of change. Also, we parked outside of someone's house on the road
this past week and went to visit someone down the street. Coming back,
this teenager was taking a picture of our car. When we went to the car
he was shocked and explained that he didn't know it was ours. He
thought it was his sister's boyfriend and was trying to catch her in
the act of cheating! Pretty random thing that day.
Got off the phone with President Chambers yesterday. Pretty much
guaranteed that I'm staying here in the area. Probably nothing will
change by next monday but that's ok. I'm fine with finishing here.
Found a good scripture that I really like. 3 Nephi 9:13-15. I hope I
haven't shared it before but it talks about the healing power of God
and the invitation. It's really good and we're gonna use it while
visiting members this week.
We moved houses this week! We're in a small room now in a spanish
member's basement. It's nice though since I need to stop being spoiled
with nice houses! It's very comfortable though.
My new companion is doing great. He is learning really well and is
picking up quick. Just wish we could teach more to get him more
experience.
First snow fell...my clothes are great though! Didn't have any problems.
That's kinda it for now, maybe I'll take a writing class to learn how
to express more or notice more things...anyways! Love y'all! Thanks
for all the support.
Elder Parks
Another slow week but we're starting to get to know the members. We
spoke to a Navajo family the other day. Still can see very clear on
how they keep practicing the traditions of their parents and aren't
fond of change. Also, we parked outside of someone's house on the road
this past week and went to visit someone down the street. Coming back,
this teenager was taking a picture of our car. When we went to the car
he was shocked and explained that he didn't know it was ours. He
thought it was his sister's boyfriend and was trying to catch her in
the act of cheating! Pretty random thing that day.
Got off the phone with President Chambers yesterday. Pretty much
guaranteed that I'm staying here in the area. Probably nothing will
change by next monday but that's ok. I'm fine with finishing here.
Found a good scripture that I really like. 3 Nephi 9:13-15. I hope I
haven't shared it before but it talks about the healing power of God
and the invitation. It's really good and we're gonna use it while
visiting members this week.
We moved houses this week! We're in a small room now in a spanish
member's basement. It's nice though since I need to stop being spoiled
with nice houses! It's very comfortable though.
My new companion is doing great. He is learning really well and is
picking up quick. Just wish we could teach more to get him more
experience.
First snow fell...my clothes are great though! Didn't have any problems.
That's kinda it for now, maybe I'll take a writing class to learn how
to express more or notice more things...anyways! Love y'all! Thanks
for all the support.
Elder Parks
October 28, 2013
Dear Family,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY HILARY!!! I know its a day late but I thought about
it a lot yesterday. And yes mom the cookie cake arrived intact.
Had a really hard week again. Nobody came to church on sunday so
we're kinda starting over from square one again. I also got a brand
new visa waiter today, Elder Figueroa, straight from the MTC. He is
from Maryvale, Arizona. Gotta start training him now too! Might just
have him till next week since transfers are next wednesday.
Being here in this area has helped me see how strong my testimony
has become and how I can answer questions or doubts more effectively.
Just this past week, Juan brought up a question about the Book of
Mormon, how the Bible doesn't testify of it. I opened up to Ezekiel 37
and shared that with him (all in spanish!!!) and after explaining it
to him and sharing powerful testimony, Juan starred at me, then looked
down at the Book of Mormon and said "Well I guess I have to read it."
I just wish he would come to church!
So mom to answer your questions! We haven't done any outdoors stuff
lately. No hikes or anything but we mainly play sports in chapels
which is where we do emailing too (Family history computers). Today
were gonna play volleyball. We're still living in a members upstairs
apartment with 2 other missionaries. They're looking for a house for
us and we should be moving this week. I haven't tried the pomegranates
but I'm a little to try them. Halloween, we are doing a temple session
as a mission again which will be fun.
Alright well thats all for now. Love y'all!
Elder Parks
HAPPY BIRTHDAY HILARY!!! I know its a day late but I thought about
it a lot yesterday. And yes mom the cookie cake arrived intact.
Had a really hard week again. Nobody came to church on sunday so
we're kinda starting over from square one again. I also got a brand
new visa waiter today, Elder Figueroa, straight from the MTC. He is
from Maryvale, Arizona. Gotta start training him now too! Might just
have him till next week since transfers are next wednesday.
Being here in this area has helped me see how strong my testimony
has become and how I can answer questions or doubts more effectively.
Just this past week, Juan brought up a question about the Book of
Mormon, how the Bible doesn't testify of it. I opened up to Ezekiel 37
and shared that with him (all in spanish!!!) and after explaining it
to him and sharing powerful testimony, Juan starred at me, then looked
down at the Book of Mormon and said "Well I guess I have to read it."
I just wish he would come to church!
So mom to answer your questions! We haven't done any outdoors stuff
lately. No hikes or anything but we mainly play sports in chapels
which is where we do emailing too (Family history computers). Today
were gonna play volleyball. We're still living in a members upstairs
apartment with 2 other missionaries. They're looking for a house for
us and we should be moving this week. I haven't tried the pomegranates
but I'm a little to try them. Halloween, we are doing a temple session
as a mission again which will be fun.
Alright well thats all for now. Love y'all!
Elder Parks
October 21, 2013
Dear Family,
I'm glad to hear that our stake back home is doing amazing! Which
ward is it that was dry for a long time but is now doing amazing?
Thanks for all the packages! I got one from Mom and Dad, the bag
from Taylor and Matt, and the box from Hilary and Hannah! Now I have
more candy than ever before, which is nice. I actually refrained from
opening them until my birthday which made it nice. The cookie cake
arrived in tact as well and is really good!
Yes my clothes are holding up well and with the extra supply of
socks I'm good there. The food we are getting is great as well and we
are being taken care of very well.
My birthday went well, just went out and worked as always. We found
a new investigator though! He was kinda anti at first but strong
testimonies silenced the doubts and he accepted to read and pray about
the Book of Mormon and to work towards the 16 of November for baptism.
It was an exciting lesson.
Really not much else to say. The temple was great but that day was
rushed because of everything else we had to do but it was nice. I hope
y'all have a good week! Love y'all!
Elder Parks
I'm glad to hear that our stake back home is doing amazing! Which
ward is it that was dry for a long time but is now doing amazing?
Thanks for all the packages! I got one from Mom and Dad, the bag
from Taylor and Matt, and the box from Hilary and Hannah! Now I have
more candy than ever before, which is nice. I actually refrained from
opening them until my birthday which made it nice. The cookie cake
arrived in tact as well and is really good!
Yes my clothes are holding up well and with the extra supply of
socks I'm good there. The food we are getting is great as well and we
are being taken care of very well.
My birthday went well, just went out and worked as always. We found
a new investigator though! He was kinda anti at first but strong
testimonies silenced the doubts and he accepted to read and pray about
the Book of Mormon and to work towards the 16 of November for baptism.
It was an exciting lesson.
Really not much else to say. The temple was great but that day was
rushed because of everything else we had to do but it was nice. I hope
y'all have a good week! Love y'all!
Elder Parks
October 17, 2013
Dear Family,
Another week gone by! Really more than a week but oh well. And I
have some pictures! One of the baptism in Daybreak(I don't think I
sent it) and some of the houses here around Halloween are getting
pretty intense. They go all out here. Too bad I'm not in Daybreak, one
house there apparently makes national news for its decorations. It's
been a little rough lately with the work. We keep trying to do things
on our own which is hard and not really effective so we really need to
change and follow the counsel of the Prophet and start working with
the members. We have been doing that this week and we'll continue
going on with that as the transfer goes on. I'll probably finish in
this area so that still leaves a ton of time to get to know the
members.
Well Dad for your non-member worker, I'd say you have the right idea
right now. Maybe finding out if he has a Book of Mormon and giving him
one would be good. And look over Elder Ballard's talk online. I don't
remember all too much off the top of my head but maybe something in
there will help. Hilary is right, he gave a really good talk.
So my new companion now is Elder Roberts. He is from Draper and is
waiting for his visa to Argentina too which stinks because both of
these visa waiters have been really good companions. He'll probably
head out at the end of the month.
That's kinda it right now. We're just pumped to go to the temple! Oh
I did get the shoes! They are SO AWESOME. I really can't think I can
wear them until my last day in the mission. Too scared to take them
out of the box. Thank you very much for getting those. We may stop by
the mission office today and pick up the box Hilary and Hannah left.
Looking forward to it. Thanks for the birthday wishes. I feel the
support from home constantly and am very grateful for it. Love y'all!
Elder Parks
Another week gone by! Really more than a week but oh well. And I
have some pictures! One of the baptism in Daybreak(I don't think I
sent it) and some of the houses here around Halloween are getting
pretty intense. They go all out here. Too bad I'm not in Daybreak, one
house there apparently makes national news for its decorations. It's
been a little rough lately with the work. We keep trying to do things
on our own which is hard and not really effective so we really need to
change and follow the counsel of the Prophet and start working with
the members. We have been doing that this week and we'll continue
going on with that as the transfer goes on. I'll probably finish in
this area so that still leaves a ton of time to get to know the
members.
Well Dad for your non-member worker, I'd say you have the right idea
right now. Maybe finding out if he has a Book of Mormon and giving him
one would be good. And look over Elder Ballard's talk online. I don't
remember all too much off the top of my head but maybe something in
there will help. Hilary is right, he gave a really good talk.
So my new companion now is Elder Roberts. He is from Draper and is
waiting for his visa to Argentina too which stinks because both of
these visa waiters have been really good companions. He'll probably
head out at the end of the month.
That's kinda it right now. We're just pumped to go to the temple! Oh
I did get the shoes! They are SO AWESOME. I really can't think I can
wear them until my last day in the mission. Too scared to take them
out of the box. Thank you very much for getting those. We may stop by
the mission office today and pick up the box Hilary and Hannah left.
Looking forward to it. Thanks for the birthday wishes. I feel the
support from home constantly and am very grateful for it. Love y'all!
Elder Parks
October 7, 2013
Dear Family,
So next week, we'll be having our temple day on thursday which means
our P-day will be that same day as well. So y'all won't get an email
until monday. It's the new schedule thing that we do with going to the
temple.
This past week my companion actually got his visa! He is heading out
this wednesday to Argentina. I have no clue who my next comp will be
so we'll wait on that.
Gahhh I haven't been taking pictures I'm sorry. I'll do that more
this week. The area is pretty fun. We saw a guy with a shirt the other
day that said "holla at my PEEPS!" and it had the candy peeps on it
and it was the funniest thing ever!
Yes dad, had I gone out on a mission now, even to salt lake, I would
have gone to the MTC in mexico. I'm actually kinda jealous that I
didn't get to go. Learning spanish there would be fun.
Hope y'all are doing well. Happy Birthday mom!
Love,
Elder Parks
So next week, we'll be having our temple day on thursday which means
our P-day will be that same day as well. So y'all won't get an email
until monday. It's the new schedule thing that we do with going to the
temple.
This past week my companion actually got his visa! He is heading out
this wednesday to Argentina. I have no clue who my next comp will be
so we'll wait on that.
Gahhh I haven't been taking pictures I'm sorry. I'll do that more
this week. The area is pretty fun. We saw a guy with a shirt the other
day that said "holla at my PEEPS!" and it had the candy peeps on it
and it was the funniest thing ever!
Yes dad, had I gone out on a mission now, even to salt lake, I would
have gone to the MTC in mexico. I'm actually kinda jealous that I
didn't get to go. Learning spanish there would be fun.
Hope y'all are doing well. Happy Birthday mom!
Love,
Elder Parks
September 30, 2013
Dear Family,
Well I was only in Daybreak for one transfer! My comp got
transferred to leadership in sandy I got made a district leader again!
Not too excited about it though. My wish is to just finish as a normal
missionary. No worries about other missionaries, just preaching the
gospel and helping other families. But the Lord needs me right now, so
I'll step up.
I'm in Kearns. Close to my first area but not the same area. I'm
covering half a spanish ward now and we have a lot of potential in the
area. There are a lot of spanish speakers. I'm white washing the area
with my new comp, Elder Yandle. He is a visa waiter going to
Argentina.
I didn't get tickets to go to conference, but I'm fine with it.
We'll just watch it with some members or something. I've gone twice on
my mission and other missionaries still haven't gone to it's fine.
Still no news on facebook! Nor iPhones nor iPads. We're still kinda
just going along with what we have always done. I don't know if I'll
see any of it. The time goes so fast!
Dad I'm sorry but I haven't gone on my bike for a while! All my
areas have been big and with the cold weather coming....I don't know.
I need to get my bike to this area though.
With being a district leader, I don't have much time to myself so I
can't write in my journal as much as I want. But I'm trying my best to
keep some things in mind. We'll just have to have a LONG talk when I
get home because I can't get it all into emails, at least not the
amount and detail that I want to communicate.
I would like some nice shoes for my birthday. Shoes that can go to
meetings and also be good for working.
I love y'all a lot!
Elder Parks
Well I was only in Daybreak for one transfer! My comp got
transferred to leadership in sandy I got made a district leader again!
Not too excited about it though. My wish is to just finish as a normal
missionary. No worries about other missionaries, just preaching the
gospel and helping other families. But the Lord needs me right now, so
I'll step up.
I'm in Kearns. Close to my first area but not the same area. I'm
covering half a spanish ward now and we have a lot of potential in the
area. There are a lot of spanish speakers. I'm white washing the area
with my new comp, Elder Yandle. He is a visa waiter going to
Argentina.
I didn't get tickets to go to conference, but I'm fine with it.
We'll just watch it with some members or something. I've gone twice on
my mission and other missionaries still haven't gone to it's fine.
Still no news on facebook! Nor iPhones nor iPads. We're still kinda
just going along with what we have always done. I don't know if I'll
see any of it. The time goes so fast!
Dad I'm sorry but I haven't gone on my bike for a while! All my
areas have been big and with the cold weather coming....I don't know.
I need to get my bike to this area though.
With being a district leader, I don't have much time to myself so I
can't write in my journal as much as I want. But I'm trying my best to
keep some things in mind. We'll just have to have a LONG talk when I
get home because I can't get it all into emails, at least not the
amount and detail that I want to communicate.
I would like some nice shoes for my birthday. Shoes that can go to
meetings and also be good for working.
I love y'all a lot!
Elder Parks
September 23, 2013
Dear Family,
We found a new investigator this past week! So we've been teaching a
less active family, the husband just got the priesthood and passed the
sacrament yesterday, he is getting married to his fiance, and his 14
year old daughter loves the church, knows its true, and wants to get
baptized! She's on date for October 19.
We're getting transfer calls tonight. I'll probably stay here. I
hope my comp does too, we get along great.
Sorry these past few letters have been dull. Not much has been going
on. Well its not so much that nothing has happened its just that I
can't remember the things that have happened! I'll do better this
week, with writing things down.
My studies are going well. I enjoy reading the scriptures and
finding new things. I'm getting really familiar with the Book of
Mormon. Bible is still tough to understand at times but it's a fun
read as well. One of the cool things about serving here is that we get
taught a ton. For example, one of the guys in our stake, (we are
teaching his less-active son) he is a man who has been called on by
the Prophet at times to write books in defense of the Church and
beliefs and practices and such. His less-active son knows a lot too
and its always fun to go over to their place and teach and get taught.
We've been working hard as usual, just still haven't caught some
families at home. We gonna start branching out, visiting the same
people over and over again is insanity. Perhaps there is more work in
the spanish ward....
Hope all is going well! I'm doing great so don't worry about me!
Love,
Elder Parks
We found a new investigator this past week! So we've been teaching a
less active family, the husband just got the priesthood and passed the
sacrament yesterday, he is getting married to his fiance, and his 14
year old daughter loves the church, knows its true, and wants to get
baptized! She's on date for October 19.
We're getting transfer calls tonight. I'll probably stay here. I
hope my comp does too, we get along great.
Sorry these past few letters have been dull. Not much has been going
on. Well its not so much that nothing has happened its just that I
can't remember the things that have happened! I'll do better this
week, with writing things down.
My studies are going well. I enjoy reading the scriptures and
finding new things. I'm getting really familiar with the Book of
Mormon. Bible is still tough to understand at times but it's a fun
read as well. One of the cool things about serving here is that we get
taught a ton. For example, one of the guys in our stake, (we are
teaching his less-active son) he is a man who has been called on by
the Prophet at times to write books in defense of the Church and
beliefs and practices and such. His less-active son knows a lot too
and its always fun to go over to their place and teach and get taught.
We've been working hard as usual, just still haven't caught some
families at home. We gonna start branching out, visiting the same
people over and over again is insanity. Perhaps there is more work in
the spanish ward....
Hope all is going well! I'm doing great so don't worry about me!
Love,
Elder Parks
September 16, 2013
Dear Family,
We had stake conference this past week. It was a broadcast from
downtown and it was alright but all the babies in the rooms made it
chaos. Non of our investigators showed up which was a bummer.
HOWEVER!!!!! The 18 year-old we baptized just got his patriarchal
blessing and it talked about him serving a mission!!! He talked to us
and asked us a lot of questions last night and we have another lesson
tonight. He is so awesome.
Dad, in my last area they did involve us in that last sheep project
thing. We visited a few of the families and all of them had moved
away. Being in the spanish unit we only had a few names though.
We had some lessons this past week and some of the less actives are
going well and some of the non-members too. The stake is getting
pumped and wanting to do missionary work. We're helping the members
set goals on when to invite their friends and stuff like that so
things should really start picking up here soon!
Thats it for now. Keep the faith! Follow the prophet! Some prophecy
has been made that will happen within the next 10 years, have no clue
what it is, but it should be something huge about our country. But as
long as we stay close to the Lord we'll be more than fine. Stay
faithful! Love y'all!
Elder Parks
We had stake conference this past week. It was a broadcast from
downtown and it was alright but all the babies in the rooms made it
chaos. Non of our investigators showed up which was a bummer.
HOWEVER!!!!! The 18 year-old we baptized just got his patriarchal
blessing and it talked about him serving a mission!!! He talked to us
and asked us a lot of questions last night and we have another lesson
tonight. He is so awesome.
Dad, in my last area they did involve us in that last sheep project
thing. We visited a few of the families and all of them had moved
away. Being in the spanish unit we only had a few names though.
We had some lessons this past week and some of the less actives are
going well and some of the non-members too. The stake is getting
pumped and wanting to do missionary work. We're helping the members
set goals on when to invite their friends and stuff like that so
things should really start picking up here soon!
Thats it for now. Keep the faith! Follow the prophet! Some prophecy
has been made that will happen within the next 10 years, have no clue
what it is, but it should be something huge about our country. But as
long as we stay close to the Lord we'll be more than fine. Stay
faithful! Love y'all!
Elder Parks
September 9, 2013
Dear Family,
This past week was pretty uneventful. A lot of lessons fell through
however, we had a number of non-members attend church this past week!
We counted 8 non-members and 3 less active families. This week we're
going to focus on teaching them and setting up consistent
appointments.
I did receive the package with the treats and socks and other items!
Thanks very much for those. The new socks are so good!!!
How was school for Hilary and Hannah? Classes going ok?
One thing I hate, is walking past the Oquirrh Temple and seeing a
wedding. Then somebody at the wedding calling out, "you can't escape
it for too long elders!" People these days.
Speaking of temples, josh, the teenager who got baptized a few weeks
ago, went to the temple and we got to do baptisms with him in the
temple! It was a great experience.
Hey Matt, was there ever a time in your mission when you felt like
30 years older than you really were? When you get off the mission do
you get to feeling young again?
One of the massive problems we have to deal with here is divorces,
especially where one of the couple goes apostate. It's a huge problem.
Mom and Dad, DON'T EVER LEAVE EACH OTHER! I'm so tired of seeing all
these great, great people and having them tell us that their
wife/husband just left them and its just depressing.
We've been hearing lately that a lot has been happening to
missionaries throughout the world like bad accidents and stuff. Just
please be sure and trust me when I say that I'm following the spirit
and doing my best to stay safe. And if anything does happen, just know
that God is still the one in control and does everything for a
purpose.
I'm grateful for this time that I've had to serve so far. It has
been a huge learning experience and time for growth both as a person
and in spirit. There are so many blessings with this gospel, its
simply true. The atonement is real and has power and was given to us
by Christ.
Hope all is well! Take care!
Love,
Elder Parks
This past week was pretty uneventful. A lot of lessons fell through
however, we had a number of non-members attend church this past week!
We counted 8 non-members and 3 less active families. This week we're
going to focus on teaching them and setting up consistent
appointments.
I did receive the package with the treats and socks and other items!
Thanks very much for those. The new socks are so good!!!
How was school for Hilary and Hannah? Classes going ok?
One thing I hate, is walking past the Oquirrh Temple and seeing a
wedding. Then somebody at the wedding calling out, "you can't escape
it for too long elders!" People these days.
Speaking of temples, josh, the teenager who got baptized a few weeks
ago, went to the temple and we got to do baptisms with him in the
temple! It was a great experience.
Hey Matt, was there ever a time in your mission when you felt like
30 years older than you really were? When you get off the mission do
you get to feeling young again?
One of the massive problems we have to deal with here is divorces,
especially where one of the couple goes apostate. It's a huge problem.
Mom and Dad, DON'T EVER LEAVE EACH OTHER! I'm so tired of seeing all
these great, great people and having them tell us that their
wife/husband just left them and its just depressing.
We've been hearing lately that a lot has been happening to
missionaries throughout the world like bad accidents and stuff. Just
please be sure and trust me when I say that I'm following the spirit
and doing my best to stay safe. And if anything does happen, just know
that God is still the one in control and does everything for a
purpose.
I'm grateful for this time that I've had to serve so far. It has
been a huge learning experience and time for growth both as a person
and in spirit. There are so many blessings with this gospel, its
simply true. The atonement is real and has power and was given to us
by Christ.
Hope all is well! Take care!
Love,
Elder Parks
Sunday, September 15, 2013
September 2, 2013
Dear Family,
Glad to hear everyone had a great time here in Utah! I probably saw the truck driving on I-15, it was just a speck because I'm a few miles away but maybe!
So interesting experience, Elder Bednar showed up to one of our wards! He went to the ward which is where Josh, the 18 year old got baptized last week. Bit of background for him, he got disowned by his family for being baptized and they took away his car, phone, school, everything. They send him hate texts and threats a lot. During church Elder Bednar stood at the stand and asked Josh come up. He talked to
Josh for about 15 minutes and promised him that as he stayed close to the temple and stayed worthy, his parents' hearts would be softened.
It was exactly what Josh needed to continue. Hopefully we can get to the temple with him tomorrow to do baptisms. We then got to shake Elder and Sister Bednar's hands.
Yes Mom, the prison is in the mission. While I was in Sandy the prison was in my area. I tried to get permission to teach there but they wouldn't let me. Don't worry I have divine protection. Also I haven't been on the trains that y'all went too. I've only used Trax.
Vacation? I will for sure go for beach location. I have horrible tan lines thanks to my white shirts. I'm really short on time right now but I'm looking forward to mail pick up!
Love y'all and good luck in school!
Elder Parks
Glad to hear everyone had a great time here in Utah! I probably saw the truck driving on I-15, it was just a speck because I'm a few miles away but maybe!
So interesting experience, Elder Bednar showed up to one of our wards! He went to the ward which is where Josh, the 18 year old got baptized last week. Bit of background for him, he got disowned by his family for being baptized and they took away his car, phone, school, everything. They send him hate texts and threats a lot. During church Elder Bednar stood at the stand and asked Josh come up. He talked to
Josh for about 15 minutes and promised him that as he stayed close to the temple and stayed worthy, his parents' hearts would be softened.
It was exactly what Josh needed to continue. Hopefully we can get to the temple with him tomorrow to do baptisms. We then got to shake Elder and Sister Bednar's hands.
Yes Mom, the prison is in the mission. While I was in Sandy the prison was in my area. I tried to get permission to teach there but they wouldn't let me. Don't worry I have divine protection. Also I haven't been on the trains that y'all went too. I've only used Trax.
Vacation? I will for sure go for beach location. I have horrible tan lines thanks to my white shirts. I'm really short on time right now but I'm looking forward to mail pick up!
Love y'all and good luck in school!
Elder Parks
August 26, 2013
Dear Family,
So I forgot that last week, my new companion is Elder Clark, he's from Ohio and is a really good companion. We teach well together and get along great. We're both getting use to Daybreak, and we're liking it.
We had a zone conference this past week which was nice. Got motivated to go find, teach, and baptize again. Then it hit me afterwords that I only have one more zone conference left in my mission. So the next zone conference I'll be giving my departing testimony. Still no news yet as to Facebook, iPads, etc. I heard this past week that the Provo mission gets iPhones. Not to sure if that is true or not.
This past week with all the thunderstorms we saw lightning strike Angel Moroni! He's a tough guy though, nothing happened but it was really loud since we were less than half a mile from the temple.
We also had an awesome baptism this past week. Josh, he's 18, and his story is amazing yet sad. He's had a ton of experiences that led him to believe the message. However his family wasn't for it at all. Last sunday, he told his family he was getting baptized and they kicked him out of the house with nothing. Literally nothing, just him in his birthday suit. But it didn't faze him! He kept on going and got baptized and confirmed this past weekend. Also yesterday the couple at my last area, the ones that only needed to get married, got baptized yesterday! I went to that baptism as well so it was nice to see some familiar faces.
About managing wards and getting to know everyone, simply put it's hard to know EVERYONE. It's been so hard lately to even memorize all the bishops. We usually do splits to get to all the wards.
That's all for now!
Love y'all!
Elder Parks
So I forgot that last week, my new companion is Elder Clark, he's from Ohio and is a really good companion. We teach well together and get along great. We're both getting use to Daybreak, and we're liking it.
We had a zone conference this past week which was nice. Got motivated to go find, teach, and baptize again. Then it hit me afterwords that I only have one more zone conference left in my mission. So the next zone conference I'll be giving my departing testimony. Still no news yet as to Facebook, iPads, etc. I heard this past week that the Provo mission gets iPhones. Not to sure if that is true or not.
This past week with all the thunderstorms we saw lightning strike Angel Moroni! He's a tough guy though, nothing happened but it was really loud since we were less than half a mile from the temple.
We also had an awesome baptism this past week. Josh, he's 18, and his story is amazing yet sad. He's had a ton of experiences that led him to believe the message. However his family wasn't for it at all. Last sunday, he told his family he was getting baptized and they kicked him out of the house with nothing. Literally nothing, just him in his birthday suit. But it didn't faze him! He kept on going and got baptized and confirmed this past weekend. Also yesterday the couple at my last area, the ones that only needed to get married, got baptized yesterday! I went to that baptism as well so it was nice to see some familiar faces.
About managing wards and getting to know everyone, simply put it's hard to know EVERYONE. It's been so hard lately to even memorize all the bishops. We usually do splits to get to all the wards.
That's all for now!
Love y'all!
Elder Parks
Friday, September 13, 2013
August 19, 2013
Dear Family,
Well, I did end up being transferred last Tuesday. I left my old area in good hands with a few families being taught and preparing for baptism.
I am now serving in Daybreak. Before I begin to talk about it, I want it to be clear that no one in our family should move here. Although it contains Oquirrh Temple in it's neighborhood, this place is like Dr. Suess land! All the houses are different colors like bright yellow, dark blue, purple, bright red, everywhere. Plus this place was built on top of a landfill, they buried it. Now the ground has arsenic or something in it, the same stuff they use in rat poison so people can't plant vegetable gardens. Other than that, it's a very happy place, almost unnaturally happy. It's one of the highest, if not the highest activity rate stakes in the world and there are TONS of members here. As a result of so many members, they give us Spanish missionaries here the english stake so now I cover a total of 8 wards! 1 Spanish and 7 English wards. We were at church from 8 AM TO 4 PM!!!!! Went to 3 meetings then almost 2 complete 3 hour blocks of church. Sundays are no longer a day of rest. It's nice to have a ton of member support though. But again, you may look at pictures at his place online but please don't move here! It's the perfect society yet at the same time it's not........
This past week was really attempting to get to know the area. The neighborhood is hard to learn due to many things looking alike. We have a lot of potential and one 18 year old that is getting baptized this coming Saturday.
Mom, I am horrible at keeping a clean car. Mainly because it's so hot and dry that I have to drink so many water bottles and the empty ones I have I just throw into the back seat. Haha I would enjoy the car light but I don't think our mission president would enjoy it too much. Haha I'll try it out after though. I will say the best car I have driven is the Ford Fusion. Hands down the best car in the mission. The Malibu cars here on the other hand are hated universally. Those cars just always have problems.
How was it with Hilary home? What time did she get in? Did others come to welcome her home? Hope all is going well! Have a good week!
Love,
Elder Parks
Well, I did end up being transferred last Tuesday. I left my old area in good hands with a few families being taught and preparing for baptism.
I am now serving in Daybreak. Before I begin to talk about it, I want it to be clear that no one in our family should move here. Although it contains Oquirrh Temple in it's neighborhood, this place is like Dr. Suess land! All the houses are different colors like bright yellow, dark blue, purple, bright red, everywhere. Plus this place was built on top of a landfill, they buried it. Now the ground has arsenic or something in it, the same stuff they use in rat poison so people can't plant vegetable gardens. Other than that, it's a very happy place, almost unnaturally happy. It's one of the highest, if not the highest activity rate stakes in the world and there are TONS of members here. As a result of so many members, they give us Spanish missionaries here the english stake so now I cover a total of 8 wards! 1 Spanish and 7 English wards. We were at church from 8 AM TO 4 PM!!!!! Went to 3 meetings then almost 2 complete 3 hour blocks of church. Sundays are no longer a day of rest. It's nice to have a ton of member support though. But again, you may look at pictures at his place online but please don't move here! It's the perfect society yet at the same time it's not........
This past week was really attempting to get to know the area. The neighborhood is hard to learn due to many things looking alike. We have a lot of potential and one 18 year old that is getting baptized this coming Saturday.
Mom, I am horrible at keeping a clean car. Mainly because it's so hot and dry that I have to drink so many water bottles and the empty ones I have I just throw into the back seat. Haha I would enjoy the car light but I don't think our mission president would enjoy it too much. Haha I'll try it out after though. I will say the best car I have driven is the Ford Fusion. Hands down the best car in the mission. The Malibu cars here on the other hand are hated universally. Those cars just always have problems.
How was it with Hilary home? What time did she get in? Did others come to welcome her home? Hope all is going well! Have a good week!
Love,
Elder Parks
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
August 12, 2013
Dear Family,
Hilary goes home tomorrow?!?!? Seems like only yesterday we were saying goodbye at the airport!
Dad, what kind of Projects are you saving for me? I'm actually having concerns about coming home and when to start up school. I'd like to spend a summer home since I haven't done that in 3 years now. Not that this info is on my mind constantly but it's at the back of my mind and with 4 transfers left in the field it creeps in at times. I'll talk to President about it when I get to 2 or 3 transfers left. Haven't considered going abroad for study but I'll for sure put in a minor in Spanish at college.
First off, Oquirrh, I'm not even sure I'm spelling it correctly. And for pronouncing it, its like Oak-Her. Just put the emphasis on the Oat the beginning. Oh yeah I got the side bag a number of weeks ago. Not sure if I mentioned it but its great and works for me perfectly.
No news on transfers yet. We get our transfer calls tonight actually so you'll find out next week what happens. Usually for us, from what I've seen is that missionaries who are good at making relationships
with the members stay longer in areas than other missionaries. They try to get us to have a really good relationship with the ward members because then more work comes out of that relationship. For example in
my first area, one companionship of elders were there for 11 months without any changes.
In other news, I didn't tell this for a long time but now I can. The golden member family that we baptized back in October went less active back in Feb. They got offended by members in the branch and the
service missionaries and quit coming to church. Found out about 2 months ago that they moved. Found out 2 days ago that they moved to Texas! Have no clue which part though. They also called the Ward Mission Leader and said they were going back to Church! So to me, that makes me extremely happy.
I'm going good right now for sheets and clothes. I think I can make everything last for the home stretch. Except socks, I need more black socks.
Mom, I could type in Spanish in the MTC but have since then forgotten how. It's quite embarrassing but I'll learn again!
That's all for now!
Love y'all! Give Hilary a hug for me!
Elder Parks
Hilary goes home tomorrow?!?!? Seems like only yesterday we were saying goodbye at the airport!
Dad, what kind of Projects are you saving for me? I'm actually having concerns about coming home and when to start up school. I'd like to spend a summer home since I haven't done that in 3 years now. Not that this info is on my mind constantly but it's at the back of my mind and with 4 transfers left in the field it creeps in at times. I'll talk to President about it when I get to 2 or 3 transfers left. Haven't considered going abroad for study but I'll for sure put in a minor in Spanish at college.
First off, Oquirrh, I'm not even sure I'm spelling it correctly. And for pronouncing it, its like Oak-Her. Just put the emphasis on the Oat the beginning. Oh yeah I got the side bag a number of weeks ago. Not sure if I mentioned it but its great and works for me perfectly.
No news on transfers yet. We get our transfer calls tonight actually so you'll find out next week what happens. Usually for us, from what I've seen is that missionaries who are good at making relationships
with the members stay longer in areas than other missionaries. They try to get us to have a really good relationship with the ward members because then more work comes out of that relationship. For example in
my first area, one companionship of elders were there for 11 months without any changes.
In other news, I didn't tell this for a long time but now I can. The golden member family that we baptized back in October went less active back in Feb. They got offended by members in the branch and the
service missionaries and quit coming to church. Found out about 2 months ago that they moved. Found out 2 days ago that they moved to Texas! Have no clue which part though. They also called the Ward Mission Leader and said they were going back to Church! So to me, that makes me extremely happy.
I'm going good right now for sheets and clothes. I think I can make everything last for the home stretch. Except socks, I need more black socks.
Mom, I could type in Spanish in the MTC but have since then forgotten how. It's quite embarrassing but I'll learn again!
That's all for now!
Love y'all! Give Hilary a hug for me!
Elder Parks
Sunday, August 11, 2013
August 5, 2013
Dear Family,
August!!!!!!!!!!! It goes by too quick! When does hilary go home? Is it really in 2 days or next week? Taylor! We went to Oquirrh Temple last tuesday and I think that one is my favorite out of the 3 we have in our mission. Also, if y'all haven't been to a temple lately, I suggest y'all go and do an endowment session (not a live one). There is something new.
We had a miracle this past week! This lady that was visiting family in our branch called us up and wanted to get baptized before she went back home to mexico. So we baptized her on Saturday and confirmed her on sunday! It was my first time doing a confirmation in spanish too! She's awesome.
We are also working with 2 other families. One family, each spouse needs to get divorced from their former spouses before we can marry them and baptize them. They are progressing really well though. Another couple we are teaching, the wife is less-active and the husband is non-member. They are preparing to get married on the 24th and then baptized on the 30th! Both couples are moving along very well. They accept and live the commitments we extend. My only fear is that I won't be in the area to finish the work with them. Transfers are next wednesday and since I've been here 6 months I may be heading out. The rugby kid we are teaching is going ok. We haven't spoken with him lately due to him being out of town. However, we learned from his friend that he is working hard to live all the commandments and read the scriptures. He is currently attempting to find an answer for himself, which is exactly where we want him.
That's really the big things that happened this past week. Not too much else happened. But these were big things!!! I'll write more next week!
Love,
Elder Parks
August!!!!!!!!!!! It goes by too quick! When does hilary go home? Is it really in 2 days or next week? Taylor! We went to Oquirrh Temple last tuesday and I think that one is my favorite out of the 3 we have in our mission. Also, if y'all haven't been to a temple lately, I suggest y'all go and do an endowment session (not a live one). There is something new.
We had a miracle this past week! This lady that was visiting family in our branch called us up and wanted to get baptized before she went back home to mexico. So we baptized her on Saturday and confirmed her on sunday! It was my first time doing a confirmation in spanish too! She's awesome.
We are also working with 2 other families. One family, each spouse needs to get divorced from their former spouses before we can marry them and baptize them. They are progressing really well though. Another couple we are teaching, the wife is less-active and the husband is non-member. They are preparing to get married on the 24th and then baptized on the 30th! Both couples are moving along very well. They accept and live the commitments we extend. My only fear is that I won't be in the area to finish the work with them. Transfers are next wednesday and since I've been here 6 months I may be heading out. The rugby kid we are teaching is going ok. We haven't spoken with him lately due to him being out of town. However, we learned from his friend that he is working hard to live all the commandments and read the scriptures. He is currently attempting to find an answer for himself, which is exactly where we want him.
That's really the big things that happened this past week. Not too much else happened. But these were big things!!! I'll write more next week!
Love,
Elder Parks
July 29, 2013
Dear Family,
Y'all went there for the Parks fling???? I love that place! Oh I also brought my camera today so I'll attach some pictures.
Not much is changing right now in regards to new proselyting methods. The only change is that we walk all day now because our car is out of miles for the month haha
We did survive the storms mom! The good thing about Utah is that normally the storms here rain for a little (not pouring) and then pass on. I have yet to be caught in a really bad down pour for more than 15
minutes.
Thanks for the compliment mom! My sewing is good, just not really. I just put the needle through the shirt enough times to make it hold. So far my shirt pockets have held with the stitching so they're looking good. I did finally manage to get the shirts back to target but I just took them for a gift card. Target is too far for us to go back but the store also didn't have any white button up shirts due to remodeling. It's fine though, I have enough white shirts to last.
We didn't do anything special for pioneer day. Just worked as usual. Of course, to me though pioneer day still isn't a huge deal.
Taylor, my favorite temple is downtown. I've heard Oquirrh Mtn is good but I still haven't been there. South Jordan is the same as Provo in my opinion and Draper is pretty nice. We should be going to Oquirrh
Temple sometime in the next few weeks though.
At temple square, we do tours and the sisters there help us teach. We go to specific areas depending on the need of the investigators. For messages on the restoration we always go downstairs to talk about Prophets. For families, and how the gospel blesses them, we always go upstairs to the Christ statue and the family video they have near there. It's a great place for them to feel the spirit. Plus the visual aids help them learn quicker and understand things better.
The activity we had on Friday was great! We made it like a science fair almost. Each organization had it's own booth and the group of about 60 people that showed up all went as a group to each station and received a presentation. I was the tour guide which was fun! We had many members show up and the families we were teaching. The activity solidified the investigators we had so it was a huge help and it was a
lot of fun too!
The area has been picking up a lot recently. We teach more and more people start coming into the area and we teach them. Some days are hard still but everything goes a lot smoother than it use to. I'll
send some pictures in another email.
Love y'all!
Elder Parks
Y'all went there for the Parks fling???? I love that place! Oh I also brought my camera today so I'll attach some pictures.
Not much is changing right now in regards to new proselyting methods. The only change is that we walk all day now because our car is out of miles for the month haha
We did survive the storms mom! The good thing about Utah is that normally the storms here rain for a little (not pouring) and then pass on. I have yet to be caught in a really bad down pour for more than 15
minutes.
Thanks for the compliment mom! My sewing is good, just not really. I just put the needle through the shirt enough times to make it hold. So far my shirt pockets have held with the stitching so they're looking good. I did finally manage to get the shirts back to target but I just took them for a gift card. Target is too far for us to go back but the store also didn't have any white button up shirts due to remodeling. It's fine though, I have enough white shirts to last.
We didn't do anything special for pioneer day. Just worked as usual. Of course, to me though pioneer day still isn't a huge deal.
Taylor, my favorite temple is downtown. I've heard Oquirrh Mtn is good but I still haven't been there. South Jordan is the same as Provo in my opinion and Draper is pretty nice. We should be going to Oquirrh
Temple sometime in the next few weeks though.
At temple square, we do tours and the sisters there help us teach. We go to specific areas depending on the need of the investigators. For messages on the restoration we always go downstairs to talk about Prophets. For families, and how the gospel blesses them, we always go upstairs to the Christ statue and the family video they have near there. It's a great place for them to feel the spirit. Plus the visual aids help them learn quicker and understand things better.
The activity we had on Friday was great! We made it like a science fair almost. Each organization had it's own booth and the group of about 60 people that showed up all went as a group to each station and received a presentation. I was the tour guide which was fun! We had many members show up and the families we were teaching. The activity solidified the investigators we had so it was a huge help and it was a
lot of fun too!
The area has been picking up a lot recently. We teach more and more people start coming into the area and we teach them. Some days are hard still but everything goes a lot smoother than it use to. I'll
send some pictures in another email.
Love y'all!
Elder Parks
July 22, 2013
Dear Family,
So Jesus taught that we should forgive 7x70 times. With that in mind, I forgot my camera! I'll try again next week.
I'm glad that the Parks fling was fun! That jeopardy game looked intense. I think I couldn't only get a few of them. Where was it at? I saw mention of a beach, Port Aransas perhaps??? I love that place!
The work here is going good. Church kinda self destructed on us yesterday as neither of the families we are teaching came to church (we found another family, rather re-found them as we haven't taught them in a while). However, things turned around as our Temple Square appointment held up that evening with one of the families. We took them and had a lesson about families and that with faith all things are possible. It was good for them because each spouse needs to get divorced and then get married. They had a great time and really enjoyed it. It was all good except when some stupid guys tried flirting with our Sister missionaries that took us on the tour. In the middle of the lesson they started it, my comp was about to smash them (he had a scholarship to play football at utah state so he's a beast). Fortunately they left so its all good.
We attended PEC yesterday morning as well. Us and the Ward mission leader kinda work hand in hand. The meetings go OK here. Branch council is finally gonna happen twice a month which will help out a
lot. We also have a missionary activity this friday! Each quorum/organization will have a billboard in the gym and people will come in and watch the displays and such. It should help out our branch and get them motivated!
Oh yeah mom! My white shirt pocket are tearing at the seams, HOWEVER I am fixing them with the sewing kit you made for me!!! I know, I know its amazing. Just thought I would let you know, you'd be so proud of me!
Thats all I got for now! Thanks for taking care of my expenses and all the other support! The side bag should get in today and I printed off the conversion story. Thanks for everything.
Love,
Elder Parks
So Jesus taught that we should forgive 7x70 times. With that in mind, I forgot my camera! I'll try again next week.
I'm glad that the Parks fling was fun! That jeopardy game looked intense. I think I couldn't only get a few of them. Where was it at? I saw mention of a beach, Port Aransas perhaps??? I love that place!
The work here is going good. Church kinda self destructed on us yesterday as neither of the families we are teaching came to church (we found another family, rather re-found them as we haven't taught them in a while). However, things turned around as our Temple Square appointment held up that evening with one of the families. We took them and had a lesson about families and that with faith all things are possible. It was good for them because each spouse needs to get divorced and then get married. They had a great time and really enjoyed it. It was all good except when some stupid guys tried flirting with our Sister missionaries that took us on the tour. In the middle of the lesson they started it, my comp was about to smash them (he had a scholarship to play football at utah state so he's a beast). Fortunately they left so its all good.
We attended PEC yesterday morning as well. Us and the Ward mission leader kinda work hand in hand. The meetings go OK here. Branch council is finally gonna happen twice a month which will help out a
lot. We also have a missionary activity this friday! Each quorum/organization will have a billboard in the gym and people will come in and watch the displays and such. It should help out our branch and get them motivated!
Oh yeah mom! My white shirt pocket are tearing at the seams, HOWEVER I am fixing them with the sewing kit you made for me!!! I know, I know its amazing. Just thought I would let you know, you'd be so proud of me!
Thats all I got for now! Thanks for taking care of my expenses and all the other support! The side bag should get in today and I printed off the conversion story. Thanks for everything.
Love,
Elder Parks
July 15, 2013
Dear Family,
Thanks for sending the sideback. I don't know why they took out backpacks. They probably make us look like students, or even terrorists for that matter I guess, or more enticing to rob...if that makes any sense.
I'm sorry, but I forgot my camera again. I'll send the mustang pictures next week.
We had our first interviews with our new mission president this past week! He is great! I really like him. He is really focused on following the Spirit. In our interview, he said that he felt impressed to share with me that my mission (thusfar) was more than acceptable to the Lord. That was very nice to hear, especially with being in this area for so long. It's been really, really hard.
Speaking of the area, this past week was really hard but Sunday made up for it all! Our Ward Mission Leader spoke for us at Priesthood executive meeting and got the branch more involved in the work, we got a missionary fireside planned for the branch, we spoke with the Stake President and got him on our side (He wasn't focused on missionary work but now he is all for it), and our family we found showed up to church! We then had a lesson later and put 3 of them on date! Later that day we found another lady who is visiting her member family and set up a return appointment for tonight! And also the branch council that was cancelled got rescheduled for tomorrow! It was an exciting day and it finally feels that the area is picking up and the members seem excited and want to help us.
That's whats been going on in my neck of the woods! Thanks for all the support as always!
Love,
Elder Parks
Thanks for sending the sideback. I don't know why they took out backpacks. They probably make us look like students, or even terrorists for that matter I guess, or more enticing to rob...if that makes any sense.
I'm sorry, but I forgot my camera again. I'll send the mustang pictures next week.
We had our first interviews with our new mission president this past week! He is great! I really like him. He is really focused on following the Spirit. In our interview, he said that he felt impressed to share with me that my mission (thusfar) was more than acceptable to the Lord. That was very nice to hear, especially with being in this area for so long. It's been really, really hard.
Speaking of the area, this past week was really hard but Sunday made up for it all! Our Ward Mission Leader spoke for us at Priesthood executive meeting and got the branch more involved in the work, we got a missionary fireside planned for the branch, we spoke with the Stake President and got him on our side (He wasn't focused on missionary work but now he is all for it), and our family we found showed up to church! We then had a lesson later and put 3 of them on date! Later that day we found another lady who is visiting her member family and set up a return appointment for tonight! And also the branch council that was cancelled got rescheduled for tomorrow! It was an exciting day and it finally feels that the area is picking up and the members seem excited and want to help us.
That's whats been going on in my neck of the woods! Thanks for all the support as always!
Love,
Elder Parks
July 8, 2013
Dear Family,
Well, those pictures sure look sad. No more fires in the house, I guess we'll have to adapt and do something interesting, like a fire pit in the middle of the playroom. Nice job cleaning up though, and the picture must have been the funniest thing ever with the 'cannon' sticking out of the door.
I forgot my camera today but I found a member family this past week that owned a MUSTANG and the allowed me to sit in it with the car turned ON!!! Talk about trust! Place it was a manual anyway so I couldn't drive it, BUT I will have pictures next week. I was so happy.
For the 4th of July, we had another lockdown mission conference. The new dress standards were introduced from the lds.org/missionary website, and with shocking news that we can't have backpacks anymore!!! They want us to use side bags, which I feel weird in cuz it looks like a purse....and no dad purses are NOT my style! If y'all could send me one it would be nice. There are pictures of some appropriate ones on the church website that can give you some ideas. Personally if it could be black or dark grey that would be cool. ugh I'll pay y'all back for the expenses...I feel like I just eat money.
At the mission conference, we also got the option to watch a movie and we watched TOY STORY 3!!! Sure I've seen it before but it was nice to sit down and enjoy a funny movie. Even spanish buzz mode!!! I understood just about every word that he spoke! Seeing the movie was funnier then than it ever has been! Oh what the mission does..
The area is still cruising along. We realized that we need the branch presidents help because he holds the keys to the branch. We'll be involving him more so this week since we have branch council tomorrow. It's rough right now, we had another hard week. Both the people we are teaching fell off date because they didn't come to church. But we keep working hard. We got by the spirit a lot, and since we don't do much tracting anymore, we fill in our planning with names of people that we know that are members, less-actives, or non-members. We're here to help everyone so we are trying to visit EVERYONE! Its a lot of work but a lot of fun too.
Thanks for preparing the letter. It'll help a lot and I'm really looking forward to it.
Also the package you sent was great! You're right mom, we couldn't use the sparklers so I gave the fireworks to our landlords who gave them to their grand kids. They enjoyed it. Everything else in the box came in tact though so no worries there.
Thanks for the continual support. I hope my work pays off by bringing blessings back home.
Love y'all a lot!
Elder Parks
Well, those pictures sure look sad. No more fires in the house, I guess we'll have to adapt and do something interesting, like a fire pit in the middle of the playroom. Nice job cleaning up though, and the picture must have been the funniest thing ever with the 'cannon' sticking out of the door.
I forgot my camera today but I found a member family this past week that owned a MUSTANG and the allowed me to sit in it with the car turned ON!!! Talk about trust! Place it was a manual anyway so I couldn't drive it, BUT I will have pictures next week. I was so happy.
For the 4th of July, we had another lockdown mission conference. The new dress standards were introduced from the lds.org/missionary website, and with shocking news that we can't have backpacks anymore!!! They want us to use side bags, which I feel weird in cuz it looks like a purse....and no dad purses are NOT my style! If y'all could send me one it would be nice. There are pictures of some appropriate ones on the church website that can give you some ideas. Personally if it could be black or dark grey that would be cool. ugh I'll pay y'all back for the expenses...I feel like I just eat money.
At the mission conference, we also got the option to watch a movie and we watched TOY STORY 3!!! Sure I've seen it before but it was nice to sit down and enjoy a funny movie. Even spanish buzz mode!!! I understood just about every word that he spoke! Seeing the movie was funnier then than it ever has been! Oh what the mission does..
The area is still cruising along. We realized that we need the branch presidents help because he holds the keys to the branch. We'll be involving him more so this week since we have branch council tomorrow. It's rough right now, we had another hard week. Both the people we are teaching fell off date because they didn't come to church. But we keep working hard. We got by the spirit a lot, and since we don't do much tracting anymore, we fill in our planning with names of people that we know that are members, less-actives, or non-members. We're here to help everyone so we are trying to visit EVERYONE! Its a lot of work but a lot of fun too.
Thanks for preparing the letter. It'll help a lot and I'm really looking forward to it.
Also the package you sent was great! You're right mom, we couldn't use the sparklers so I gave the fireworks to our landlords who gave them to their grand kids. They enjoyed it. Everything else in the box came in tact though so no worries there.
Thanks for the continual support. I hope my work pays off by bringing blessings back home.
Love y'all a lot!
Elder Parks
July 1, 2013
Dear Family,
JULY!!!! Where does the time go???? Hey dad, sorry for not being there and helping out with the chimney! Seriously, I love doing service now! Even mowing someone's lawn was like a highlight. Mowing grass has never been so much fun!
The work here still goes on. It's a bit different now since we aren't supposed to tract anymore. Planning is hard during the day! The hours 12-4 are usually hard because nobody in our branch is home. Still trying what is effective to do during that time.
Our 17-year old rugby player is going very good. He is the door into his family! His parents told him that if he wants to be baptized then he can, so he is moving right along. The other families are moving along as well. Didn't do a lot of teaching this past week but the lessons we had were of very good quality.
We actually found out a good way that works for this area. When we visit the members of the branch and help strengthen them, more people come out of nowhere that we can start teaching! I don't know how it works but we're doing that now! Plus, with the training last week, our ward mission leader is on fire and is helping us get things moving.
Nothing new quite yet with the new mission president. We had our min zone conference in getting to meet him and he seems like a really nice guy. He told us very kindly that he had a lot of respect for President Miller and he wasn't going to attempt to fill in his shoes. However, he asked us for permission to begin working in his own new shoes rather than filling in President Millers. Of course, we all agreed. He is going to do great work! For the 4th of July, he may be doing the same thing that President Miller did. We have a mission conference scheduled that day from 6-10 and we may have an apostle come! Keep those fingers crossed!
Mom and Dad, I have a favor to ask of you. I want to hear our conversion story. I know some things but not most of it, I feel. Like, what kind of opposition came in when you started learning about the church? From what source was the opposition coming from? Was there a certain moment when you felt the spirit say that this is without doubt the truth? How do you feel it has blessed you individually and as a couple? To be quite honest, I want to here it because your example has helped me a lot with some of the families we have been teaching. What always gets people is that I can never remember a time when y'all were straight up yelling at one another (and to be honest I can't). So if y'all could do that for me, I would really appreciate it! Of course, whatever y'all feel like sharing would be nice.
Hannah, how is work going? You getting excited for school? Are mom and dad happy that the house will soon be empty? Haha
I love y'all a lot!
Love,
Elder Parks
JULY!!!! Where does the time go???? Hey dad, sorry for not being there and helping out with the chimney! Seriously, I love doing service now! Even mowing someone's lawn was like a highlight. Mowing grass has never been so much fun!
The work here still goes on. It's a bit different now since we aren't supposed to tract anymore. Planning is hard during the day! The hours 12-4 are usually hard because nobody in our branch is home. Still trying what is effective to do during that time.
Our 17-year old rugby player is going very good. He is the door into his family! His parents told him that if he wants to be baptized then he can, so he is moving right along. The other families are moving along as well. Didn't do a lot of teaching this past week but the lessons we had were of very good quality.
We actually found out a good way that works for this area. When we visit the members of the branch and help strengthen them, more people come out of nowhere that we can start teaching! I don't know how it works but we're doing that now! Plus, with the training last week, our ward mission leader is on fire and is helping us get things moving.
Nothing new quite yet with the new mission president. We had our min zone conference in getting to meet him and he seems like a really nice guy. He told us very kindly that he had a lot of respect for President Miller and he wasn't going to attempt to fill in his shoes. However, he asked us for permission to begin working in his own new shoes rather than filling in President Millers. Of course, we all agreed. He is going to do great work! For the 4th of July, he may be doing the same thing that President Miller did. We have a mission conference scheduled that day from 6-10 and we may have an apostle come! Keep those fingers crossed!
Mom and Dad, I have a favor to ask of you. I want to hear our conversion story. I know some things but not most of it, I feel. Like, what kind of opposition came in when you started learning about the church? From what source was the opposition coming from? Was there a certain moment when you felt the spirit say that this is without doubt the truth? How do you feel it has blessed you individually and as a couple? To be quite honest, I want to here it because your example has helped me a lot with some of the families we have been teaching. What always gets people is that I can never remember a time when y'all were straight up yelling at one another (and to be honest I can't). So if y'all could do that for me, I would really appreciate it! Of course, whatever y'all feel like sharing would be nice.
Hannah, how is work going? You getting excited for school? Are mom and dad happy that the house will soon be empty? Haha
I love y'all a lot!
Love,
Elder Parks
Sunday, June 30, 2013
June 24, 2013
Dear Family,
The training meeting yesterday was amazing. The cool thing is, the majority of the talks that were given and the doctrine they shared, has all been taught by our mission to the wards here! The Brethren are backing us up and it feels awesome! I liked the part where President Packer said that he knows the Lord. We all know what he means.
As for some of those new announcements about using more technology and keeping buildings open and such, we haven't received so much news or training for that yet. We don't know if we'll be doing that even. So far, what has been done in our mission is they've done some trial runs of smaller visitors centers that are part of a stake center and missionaries are there to help people that come in. Nothing new really announced yet but with our new president coming in this thursday, we'll be seeing a lot of changes I'm sure.
So for my area, I cover 1 spanish branch that covers the city of Riverton and Bluffdale. That area also compromises 7 english stakes and add up to about 62 english wards. However, we only teach spanish for the spanish branch.
This is an honest question...what is a banister???? How does that replace a fireplace? Mom and Dad, please don't move to Utah! We need to keep our roots in Texas! Thats where we all need to end up! Oh yeah dad, I was at walmart and saw some of the new dell laptops! They look good and would look great in my room. My long awaited graduation present...this is how I see it playing out: Approaching my desk, and box with DELL on it is resting on the desk. I take off the tape, all excited and open the box to find it EMPTY! Eh that's probably what you'll do haha
We had pretty much 2 mission conferences this past week including the training broadcast. We all did a mission temple trip to the Jordan River Temple and then we had a mission conference where President Miller and his wife spoke to us, kinda like departing testimonies. They also brought the mission doctor who gave a really good talk about the atonement and how it carries us through our missions by Christ who is the master healer. Then yesterday we had the other mission conference after the training and they again spake some departing words and then we all shook their hands and gave hugs to them and all that. When I shook their hands, I asked if I could still visit then in california after my mission and report on my last 7 months, and they said they would be very upset and disappointed if I didn't visit! So I guess I'll make a road trip to Orange County when I get back to BYU! It's really hard to see them go.
Yesterday at church, our 17-year-old investigator came to church! We also had a random non-member come to church with his returning wife! If he keeps coming (he lives outside our area) we'll start teaching him!
That's what happened this past week. It's kinda sad but it'll be neat to have new beginnings for the mission.
Take care! Love y'all!
Elder Parks
The training meeting yesterday was amazing. The cool thing is, the majority of the talks that were given and the doctrine they shared, has all been taught by our mission to the wards here! The Brethren are backing us up and it feels awesome! I liked the part where President Packer said that he knows the Lord. We all know what he means.
As for some of those new announcements about using more technology and keeping buildings open and such, we haven't received so much news or training for that yet. We don't know if we'll be doing that even. So far, what has been done in our mission is they've done some trial runs of smaller visitors centers that are part of a stake center and missionaries are there to help people that come in. Nothing new really announced yet but with our new president coming in this thursday, we'll be seeing a lot of changes I'm sure.
So for my area, I cover 1 spanish branch that covers the city of Riverton and Bluffdale. That area also compromises 7 english stakes and add up to about 62 english wards. However, we only teach spanish for the spanish branch.
This is an honest question...what is a banister???? How does that replace a fireplace? Mom and Dad, please don't move to Utah! We need to keep our roots in Texas! Thats where we all need to end up! Oh yeah dad, I was at walmart and saw some of the new dell laptops! They look good and would look great in my room. My long awaited graduation present...this is how I see it playing out: Approaching my desk, and box with DELL on it is resting on the desk. I take off the tape, all excited and open the box to find it EMPTY! Eh that's probably what you'll do haha
We had pretty much 2 mission conferences this past week including the training broadcast. We all did a mission temple trip to the Jordan River Temple and then we had a mission conference where President Miller and his wife spoke to us, kinda like departing testimonies. They also brought the mission doctor who gave a really good talk about the atonement and how it carries us through our missions by Christ who is the master healer. Then yesterday we had the other mission conference after the training and they again spake some departing words and then we all shook their hands and gave hugs to them and all that. When I shook their hands, I asked if I could still visit then in california after my mission and report on my last 7 months, and they said they would be very upset and disappointed if I didn't visit! So I guess I'll make a road trip to Orange County when I get back to BYU! It's really hard to see them go.
Yesterday at church, our 17-year-old investigator came to church! We also had a random non-member come to church with his returning wife! If he keeps coming (he lives outside our area) we'll start teaching him!
That's what happened this past week. It's kinda sad but it'll be neat to have new beginnings for the mission.
Take care! Love y'all!
Elder Parks
June 17, 2013
Dear Family,
We're already midway through June....
So I know the picture may look akward but I don't know what to do with my hands so there it is. I took that picture this morning so its the most up to date picture! The mission was doing the same thing like the mothers day picture for the fathers, but we didn't get around to making it and sending it into the mission blog. So yeah sorry its late but Happy Fathers Day! Also, happy wedding anniversary!
Also I forgot this in my last letter but congrats hannah for graduating!!!!
Whats this about removing the chimney??? Is that a joke?
We'll be watching the broadcast as well this next sunday. I can't wait for that!
So the fireside kinda went down the drain. We were going to present the idea in ward council on tuesday night, however we get there to ward council and nobody is there! The branch president apparently cancelled it and didn't tell us. So we'll try to implement it in the next few weeks or so, depending on if I stay in the area since transfers are this friday.
Dad, my rugby skills are still bad and we haven't really practiced much for zone workouts because half the zone doesn't come to workout.
So this past week, we had another special visitor to the mission. We got to listen to Elder Cook of the 12! He gave a good talk about agency and opposition. He also taugh us that the most important thing we can teach is faith in Jesus Christ. It was a really good conference but the best part was when he left us with an apostolic blessing. He blessed us with 7 specific things:
1. Blessing of unity in the mission. Loving our companions tops the list of importance.
2. Blessed us to be able to feel how we can bless our companion.
3. He blessed our home situations. That things at home would improve according to our service.
4. Blessed us that our service would bring blessings to those near and dear to us.
5. Blessed us not to be discouraged.
6. Blessed us to realize how important it was for us to feed the Lord’s sheep.
7. Blessed us to know that the atonement would balance all the unfairness of the world.
A lot of missionaries in the field needed those blessings.
Thats all for now! Take care!
Love,
Elder Parks
We're already midway through June....
So I know the picture may look akward but I don't know what to do with my hands so there it is. I took that picture this morning so its the most up to date picture! The mission was doing the same thing like the mothers day picture for the fathers, but we didn't get around to making it and sending it into the mission blog. So yeah sorry its late but Happy Fathers Day! Also, happy wedding anniversary!
Also I forgot this in my last letter but congrats hannah for graduating!!!!
Whats this about removing the chimney??? Is that a joke?
We'll be watching the broadcast as well this next sunday. I can't wait for that!
So the fireside kinda went down the drain. We were going to present the idea in ward council on tuesday night, however we get there to ward council and nobody is there! The branch president apparently cancelled it and didn't tell us. So we'll try to implement it in the next few weeks or so, depending on if I stay in the area since transfers are this friday.
Dad, my rugby skills are still bad and we haven't really practiced much for zone workouts because half the zone doesn't come to workout.
So this past week, we had another special visitor to the mission. We got to listen to Elder Cook of the 12! He gave a good talk about agency and opposition. He also taugh us that the most important thing we can teach is faith in Jesus Christ. It was a really good conference but the best part was when he left us with an apostolic blessing. He blessed us with 7 specific things:
1. Blessing of unity in the mission. Loving our companions tops the list of importance.
2. Blessed us to be able to feel how we can bless our companion.
3. He blessed our home situations. That things at home would improve according to our service.
4. Blessed us that our service would bring blessings to those near and dear to us.
5. Blessed us not to be discouraged.
6. Blessed us to realize how important it was for us to feed the Lord’s sheep.
7. Blessed us to know that the atonement would balance all the unfairness of the world.
A lot of missionaries in the field needed those blessings.
Thats all for now! Take care!
Love,
Elder Parks
June 10, 2013
Dear Family,
So I'm starting my 4th month in this area. I believe though I may be moved next week since this is a 4 week transfer. Who knows, only time will tell.
The 40 day fast is going along. It's hard though. I should have known all the opposition would come in when I started it! The 10 items I put down to work on, all of a sudden became the hardest things in my life! For example, I set a goal to talk to everyone that I saw on the street! It use to not be a problem to me but now its the hardest thing ever! Satan.... I'm still working on it though and will come out on top.
To help get the missionary work going in our area, we are setting up a missionary focused fireside next week! We'll have talks given by some members, ask converts to share their testimonies, and then we'll teach the members to have people skills so they can share the gospel with their friends or invite them to activities, etc. It should be fun! We have our ward mission leader in on it and we have our Elder's quorum president backing us up on it.
We found another 17-year-old to teach this past week! He is a rugby player (which allowed my companion to start the conversation) and he and my companion had friends in common. One of those friends just received a mission call and agreed to help us bring his friend into the gospel. He's looking solid right now, just as long as the friend helps us out.
I love this area, and I really love just serving. It's been such a great experience. So much has been learned in the scriptures, about people, about life skills in general. It's been such a blast, and back at the beginning, I thought I couldn't make it to the end. Now I don't see anything stopping me from finishing strong!
Keep the faith! Love y'all!
Elder Parks
So I'm starting my 4th month in this area. I believe though I may be moved next week since this is a 4 week transfer. Who knows, only time will tell.
The 40 day fast is going along. It's hard though. I should have known all the opposition would come in when I started it! The 10 items I put down to work on, all of a sudden became the hardest things in my life! For example, I set a goal to talk to everyone that I saw on the street! It use to not be a problem to me but now its the hardest thing ever! Satan.... I'm still working on it though and will come out on top.
To help get the missionary work going in our area, we are setting up a missionary focused fireside next week! We'll have talks given by some members, ask converts to share their testimonies, and then we'll teach the members to have people skills so they can share the gospel with their friends or invite them to activities, etc. It should be fun! We have our ward mission leader in on it and we have our Elder's quorum president backing us up on it.
We found another 17-year-old to teach this past week! He is a rugby player (which allowed my companion to start the conversation) and he and my companion had friends in common. One of those friends just received a mission call and agreed to help us bring his friend into the gospel. He's looking solid right now, just as long as the friend helps us out.
I love this area, and I really love just serving. It's been such a great experience. So much has been learned in the scriptures, about people, about life skills in general. It's been such a blast, and back at the beginning, I thought I couldn't make it to the end. Now I don't see anything stopping me from finishing strong!
Keep the faith! Love y'all!
Elder Parks
June 3, 2013
Dear Family,
So the picture was a funny story, we were tracting up a street and a truck rounds the corner and pulls over and talks to us. He was the english ward mission leader there and he told us that there was nobody spanish speaking in the neighborhood (bummer) and then he drove off. As he was leaving, another truck rounds the corner and pulls over to talk to us. This man then proceeds to get out of his car, and says he's gonna force us to take a picture and send it to our parents! So thats what we did and y'all got the text so thats good. Me being the genius that I am, I couldn't remember whose phone number was whose so I just hoped for the best and hoped I didn't send it to hilary's phone. That guy was aggressive and we were forced to comply, I wish all the members were that aggressive with sharing the gospel with others and giving us referrals!
For inspirational this week, I was reading an email from my trainer back in Colombia and I was voicing that I felt that I was lacking a little bit as a missionary and following the spirit. He offered that I do what is called the 40 day fast! I'm starting it today and it's when you 'fast' from things that could potentially drive the spirit away for 40 days and as one tries his/her hardest to do it, at the end of the 40 days the character of the missionary will change and he'll be more in tune with the spirit. So I'm working on that right now!
I'm working on finding the receipt for the shirts! I haven't thrown them away or anything but I can't find the receipt. I'll keep looking so that I can take them back to target.
Don't worry mom, I was only in the rain for a little bit thanks to the use of a car. I must say, the weather here is weird. I was COLD on May 31st!! That shouldn't even be physically possible! But now it's warming up so it's all good.
Things keep rolling along here in the area. Problems came up with the parents about us teaching those 2 teenagers. It's not like we went behind their back, they KNEW we were teaching them but now they've kinda frozen up on us and aren't cooperating with allowing us to teach their kids. We're trying to find more people to teach but we struggle at times. In reality there aren't many hispanics here and this is actually the hardest spanish area in the mission. We still work hard though. We're going to begin working more with the members starting this week so we'll see how that goes. Our President has said that spanish missionary work is not effective if we don't have the member support, so that's what we'll start doing.
I'm staying happy! I'm working hard and keeping the faith, so no need to worry about me! The gospel is true and I love y'all and am grateful for the support!
Love,
Elder Parks
So the picture was a funny story, we were tracting up a street and a truck rounds the corner and pulls over and talks to us. He was the english ward mission leader there and he told us that there was nobody spanish speaking in the neighborhood (bummer) and then he drove off. As he was leaving, another truck rounds the corner and pulls over to talk to us. This man then proceeds to get out of his car, and says he's gonna force us to take a picture and send it to our parents! So thats what we did and y'all got the text so thats good. Me being the genius that I am, I couldn't remember whose phone number was whose so I just hoped for the best and hoped I didn't send it to hilary's phone. That guy was aggressive and we were forced to comply, I wish all the members were that aggressive with sharing the gospel with others and giving us referrals!
For inspirational this week, I was reading an email from my trainer back in Colombia and I was voicing that I felt that I was lacking a little bit as a missionary and following the spirit. He offered that I do what is called the 40 day fast! I'm starting it today and it's when you 'fast' from things that could potentially drive the spirit away for 40 days and as one tries his/her hardest to do it, at the end of the 40 days the character of the missionary will change and he'll be more in tune with the spirit. So I'm working on that right now!
I'm working on finding the receipt for the shirts! I haven't thrown them away or anything but I can't find the receipt. I'll keep looking so that I can take them back to target.
Don't worry mom, I was only in the rain for a little bit thanks to the use of a car. I must say, the weather here is weird. I was COLD on May 31st!! That shouldn't even be physically possible! But now it's warming up so it's all good.
Things keep rolling along here in the area. Problems came up with the parents about us teaching those 2 teenagers. It's not like we went behind their back, they KNEW we were teaching them but now they've kinda frozen up on us and aren't cooperating with allowing us to teach their kids. We're trying to find more people to teach but we struggle at times. In reality there aren't many hispanics here and this is actually the hardest spanish area in the mission. We still work hard though. We're going to begin working more with the members starting this week so we'll see how that goes. Our President has said that spanish missionary work is not effective if we don't have the member support, so that's what we'll start doing.
I'm staying happy! I'm working hard and keeping the faith, so no need to worry about me! The gospel is true and I love y'all and am grateful for the support!
Love,
Elder Parks
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
May 27, 2013
Dear Family,
Well, transfers happened and I'm still in the same area. Elder Allen left to Kamas to be with my old companion and I received Elder Medeiros from Hawaii! He's a good Elder and likes to work hard so I'm glad to be with him.
We got in the door last night of a fundamentalist who wants to serve a mission. He is praying about Thomas S. Monson and hopefully things work out well. It seems like he has a sincere desire but we need to teach more before that can be determined. We also had a lot of lessons this past week and taught more than we have before which has been nice. We are teaching this one girl who likes to learn. During one lesson, she was being really quiet and said she was going through some hard things, and she brought out that she was upset because her friend had died unexpectedly and wanted to know where she was. We read Alma 40 together and that made her feel a lot better and we're looking forward to teaching her about the Plan of Salvation! The only problem is the dad. He's not too fond of mormons and doesn't want her to be baptized so we'll be trying to work with him as well.
Thanks for all the support from home. It really makes a difference during the mission.
Love y'all
Elder Parks
Well, transfers happened and I'm still in the same area. Elder Allen left to Kamas to be with my old companion and I received Elder Medeiros from Hawaii! He's a good Elder and likes to work hard so I'm glad to be with him.
We got in the door last night of a fundamentalist who wants to serve a mission. He is praying about Thomas S. Monson and hopefully things work out well. It seems like he has a sincere desire but we need to teach more before that can be determined. We also had a lot of lessons this past week and taught more than we have before which has been nice. We are teaching this one girl who likes to learn. During one lesson, she was being really quiet and said she was going through some hard things, and she brought out that she was upset because her friend had died unexpectedly and wanted to know where she was. We read Alma 40 together and that made her feel a lot better and we're looking forward to teaching her about the Plan of Salvation! The only problem is the dad. He's not too fond of mormons and doesn't want her to be baptized so we'll be trying to work with him as well.
Thanks for all the support from home. It really makes a difference during the mission.
Love y'all
Elder Parks
May 20, 2013
Dear Family,
So I forgot to write this in the last email but HAPPY BIRTHDAY HANNAH!
This last week was pretty uneventful, mainly because I got sick and was in bed for 3 days but I'm better now so no need to worry!!!
We had Posole yesterday for dinner and it was amazing! It's a mexican soup that has meat in it along with some corn flour thing that tastes really good. It's my favorite dish since I first had it in Kearns! For lunch I've just been having a sandwich, a pizza, apples, carrots, and noodles. Oh and I just bought PEARS today mom so I'm being healthy!
We also had a baptism on saturday for the Colombian lady that we've been teaching forever, and it went very well, up untill sunday morning when we found out that she was baptized by her nickname and not by her legal name! Haha so we had to fill up the font again and baptize her again! She got confirmed yesterday too so that was a nice day.
The transfer is closing and we should be getting calls tomorrow and moving on wednesday. Of course, things may just stay the same! This next transfer will be 4 weeks long because they'll do transfers right before the new president arrives, then we'll have an 8 WEEK transfer to make up. Better hope I have a companion that I like for those 8 weeks right? haha
Matt I got a question, were there times during your mission that you felt that your charity towards others kinda dwindled and you had to get the charity back to help them? If so, how did you get it back?
Thanks for all the support! Love y'all!
Elder Parks
So I forgot to write this in the last email but HAPPY BIRTHDAY HANNAH!
This last week was pretty uneventful, mainly because I got sick and was in bed for 3 days but I'm better now so no need to worry!!!
We had Posole yesterday for dinner and it was amazing! It's a mexican soup that has meat in it along with some corn flour thing that tastes really good. It's my favorite dish since I first had it in Kearns! For lunch I've just been having a sandwich, a pizza, apples, carrots, and noodles. Oh and I just bought PEARS today mom so I'm being healthy!
We also had a baptism on saturday for the Colombian lady that we've been teaching forever, and it went very well, up untill sunday morning when we found out that she was baptized by her nickname and not by her legal name! Haha so we had to fill up the font again and baptize her again! She got confirmed yesterday too so that was a nice day.
The transfer is closing and we should be getting calls tomorrow and moving on wednesday. Of course, things may just stay the same! This next transfer will be 4 weeks long because they'll do transfers right before the new president arrives, then we'll have an 8 WEEK transfer to make up. Better hope I have a companion that I like for those 8 weeks right? haha
Matt I got a question, were there times during your mission that you felt that your charity towards others kinda dwindled and you had to get the charity back to help them? If so, how did you get it back?
Thanks for all the support! Love y'all!
Elder Parks
May 13, 2013
Dear Family,
It was really nice to talk with everyone yesterday. I forgot to say it on the phone so I'll say it now. On wednesday, we had a mission conference and Elder Holland was the guest speaker!!!! I also had to say the opening prayer and when I ended it I was walking offstage and Elder Holland said, "Thank-you Elder." Since Elder Holland has acknowledged my presence, my life is now complete! HAHAHA! He gave a good talk about how our missions need to change us and that we can't risk going back to what we were before the mission. He also told us why he thought missions were hard and he thought that it's because salvation ain't cheap and since it wasn't easy for Jesus then it won't really be easy for us as well. HOWEVER, because its hard, that means the blessings are greater! And I'm 100% sure that y'all at home have seen the blessings of us serving missions.
Let's see...I finished the Book of Mormon in spanish, and Doctrine and Covenants, and Our Heritage...I'VE READ SO MUCH!!!
Hey so just something on my mind, I've seen a lot of less-active families that could be so much happier if they were still living the gospel. I'm so happy that we're all still faithful in the gospel and we can see the blessings that come from it.
So I studied a talk this week that I think is from a college professor I think. It talks about the exodus, Lehi's dream, and other items. It focuses on the atonement, as with everything in the gospel. In it he quotes a talk by elder Nelson about the atonement and he breaks down the word. At-one-ment is what it looks like when broken apart. It means to be at one with someone which is what the atonement does with Christ and us. Other words in other languages relating to atonement is expiacion which means "to atone" and reconciliation, which broken down to its latin roots is RE (again), CON (with), and SELLA (seat). It literally means 'to sit again with.' The atonement literally does that with us. The Book of Mormon talks about bring us to Christ and being wrapped in His arms of love. It truly brings us to Him and makes us ONE.
Thats all I got right now! Talk next week!
Love,
Elder Parks
It was really nice to talk with everyone yesterday. I forgot to say it on the phone so I'll say it now. On wednesday, we had a mission conference and Elder Holland was the guest speaker!!!! I also had to say the opening prayer and when I ended it I was walking offstage and Elder Holland said, "Thank-you Elder." Since Elder Holland has acknowledged my presence, my life is now complete! HAHAHA! He gave a good talk about how our missions need to change us and that we can't risk going back to what we were before the mission. He also told us why he thought missions were hard and he thought that it's because salvation ain't cheap and since it wasn't easy for Jesus then it won't really be easy for us as well. HOWEVER, because its hard, that means the blessings are greater! And I'm 100% sure that y'all at home have seen the blessings of us serving missions.
Let's see...I finished the Book of Mormon in spanish, and Doctrine and Covenants, and Our Heritage...I'VE READ SO MUCH!!!
Hey so just something on my mind, I've seen a lot of less-active families that could be so much happier if they were still living the gospel. I'm so happy that we're all still faithful in the gospel and we can see the blessings that come from it.
So I studied a talk this week that I think is from a college professor I think. It talks about the exodus, Lehi's dream, and other items. It focuses on the atonement, as with everything in the gospel. In it he quotes a talk by elder Nelson about the atonement and he breaks down the word. At-one-ment is what it looks like when broken apart. It means to be at one with someone which is what the atonement does with Christ and us. Other words in other languages relating to atonement is expiacion which means "to atone" and reconciliation, which broken down to its latin roots is RE (again), CON (with), and SELLA (seat). It literally means 'to sit again with.' The atonement literally does that with us. The Book of Mormon talks about bring us to Christ and being wrapped in His arms of love. It truly brings us to Him and makes us ONE.
Thats all I got right now! Talk next week!
Love,
Elder Parks
May 6, 2013
Dear Family,
A lot of fun stuff happened this week! First mom, on mothers day, the blog will have special pictures from missionaries to their moms so be sure to check the mission blog that day (www.utahslcsouthmission.org).
President Miller is getting released on July 1st so that's whats going on. Thats when the mission splits as well and we still don't know what the boundaries are.
I did see Uncle Pat's 3 shot! I was so jealous! It's been ridiculous, I've wanted to hunt or just shoot a gun so bad. But I've heard ammo price is unbelievable now with Obama.
So this past week, we met the actor who plays the investigator in The Best Two Years. I should add, that he stopped US and wanted to talk to us, we didn't stop him. In the picture I didn't know what to do so I didn't do anything, I just smiled haha.
We helped teach mutual this past week too, which was fun the youth really like us. One of them is actually working on a friend that she wants to join the church. On thursday, we got to rope some fake cattle!!! I didn't get pictures but it was so much fun! Sunday evening we went back to the same house and got to rope some more. It's really fun, I want to do it when I get home.
We also met a secret church called THE WAY and it's the true church because it gets passed down secretly among true people. I don't know it was interesting.
Thats all I got for now! Love y'all and talk to y'all next week and also, 6pm works (meaning I'll call at 5)!
Love
Elder Parks
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A lot of fun stuff happened this week! First mom, on mothers day, the blog will have special pictures from missionaries to their moms so be sure to check the mission blog that day (www.utahslcsouthmission.org).
President Miller is getting released on July 1st so that's whats going on. Thats when the mission splits as well and we still don't know what the boundaries are.
I did see Uncle Pat's 3 shot! I was so jealous! It's been ridiculous, I've wanted to hunt or just shoot a gun so bad. But I've heard ammo price is unbelievable now with Obama.
So this past week, we met the actor who plays the investigator in The Best Two Years. I should add, that he stopped US and wanted to talk to us, we didn't stop him. In the picture I didn't know what to do so I didn't do anything, I just smiled haha.
We helped teach mutual this past week too, which was fun the youth really like us. One of them is actually working on a friend that she wants to join the church. On thursday, we got to rope some fake cattle!!! I didn't get pictures but it was so much fun! Sunday evening we went back to the same house and got to rope some more. It's really fun, I want to do it when I get home.
We also met a secret church called THE WAY and it's the true church because it gets passed down secretly among true people. I don't know it was interesting.
Thats all I got for now! Love y'all and talk to y'all next week and also, 6pm works (meaning I'll call at 5)!
Love
Elder Parks
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April 29, 2013
Dear Family,
Almost 15 months! It goes way too fast!
Well we don't wear suits every single day now, but my black suit is shinny but my grey one is holding up great. Actually, thinking about it, make it 2 white shirts and 2 slacks (30x30). I had to trash some slacks because they got too sunburned. Like the color at my thigh was brown when it should have been black.
I DO have a lot of blue ties and I like them! I have a rotation so I don't wear the same one days in a row. I can tie it and get the right length on the first try a lot but sometimes it takes me 2 or 3. You'd be really proud of me Dad!
I did the 1 event thing again this past week and this is what happened:
Monday, after P-Day we had 3 lessons so we did nothing but teach people all night! It was my first time doing that and it was amazing!
Tuesday, we had our last interviews with President Miller. He shined my shoes in my interview with him and it was really humbling. He said he couldn't wash my feet though(!!!!!!) but he said he could shine my shoes. He then talked about my testimony and how it had changed. It was a very nice interview, perfect to end on with him as my mission president. We still have one more zone conference with him but that will be it for personal interviews with him.
Wednesday, we were tracting and we found a huge abandoned house. We thought it was inhabited but it wasn't. It was fun though.
Thursday, we were invited to a bishopric training by a stake president. Naturally we went and we had to bear our testimonies in front of 10 bishops, all their counselors, and the stake presidency. It was really scary doing it but we got through.
Friday, this less-active girl and her friend who is taking the lessons in english told us about how they didn't feel that the english missionaries taught with as much care and we did. They told me and Elder Allen that we have something special, and we treat our investigators very special like gems. It was very nice to hear that from people we teach.
Saturday, we met an RM the day after she got back from Guatemala. The cool thing is, she is the convert in a polygamist family who is going to help us bring more young converts from the UAB(United Apostolic Brethren/Polygamist) church. She is going to be a huge help for us.
Sunday, nothing really interesting happend.
We continue to teach our 2 prepared investigators. They are progressing really well. They are looking good for their baptisms.
Thanks for all the suppport, couldn't do this without y'all.
Love,
Elder Parks
Almost 15 months! It goes way too fast!
Well we don't wear suits every single day now, but my black suit is shinny but my grey one is holding up great. Actually, thinking about it, make it 2 white shirts and 2 slacks (30x30). I had to trash some slacks because they got too sunburned. Like the color at my thigh was brown when it should have been black.
I DO have a lot of blue ties and I like them! I have a rotation so I don't wear the same one days in a row. I can tie it and get the right length on the first try a lot but sometimes it takes me 2 or 3. You'd be really proud of me Dad!
I did the 1 event thing again this past week and this is what happened:
Monday, after P-Day we had 3 lessons so we did nothing but teach people all night! It was my first time doing that and it was amazing!
Tuesday, we had our last interviews with President Miller. He shined my shoes in my interview with him and it was really humbling. He said he couldn't wash my feet though(!!!!!!) but he said he could shine my shoes. He then talked about my testimony and how it had changed. It was a very nice interview, perfect to end on with him as my mission president. We still have one more zone conference with him but that will be it for personal interviews with him.
Wednesday, we were tracting and we found a huge abandoned house. We thought it was inhabited but it wasn't. It was fun though.
Thursday, we were invited to a bishopric training by a stake president. Naturally we went and we had to bear our testimonies in front of 10 bishops, all their counselors, and the stake presidency. It was really scary doing it but we got through.
Friday, this less-active girl and her friend who is taking the lessons in english told us about how they didn't feel that the english missionaries taught with as much care and we did. They told me and Elder Allen that we have something special, and we treat our investigators very special like gems. It was very nice to hear that from people we teach.
Saturday, we met an RM the day after she got back from Guatemala. The cool thing is, she is the convert in a polygamist family who is going to help us bring more young converts from the UAB(United Apostolic Brethren/Polygamist) church. She is going to be a huge help for us.
Sunday, nothing really interesting happend.
We continue to teach our 2 prepared investigators. They are progressing really well. They are looking good for their baptisms.
Thanks for all the suppport, couldn't do this without y'all.
Love,
Elder Parks
April 22, 2013
Dear Family,
So, hopefully everyone understands that I was kept here in Bluffdale/Riverton and my previous comp got sent to Kamas. Kamas is out past Park City, just keep heading east. It's out in the middle of nowhere.
My shirts and suits are holding up. Only if y'all could send me another short sleeve white shirt that would be great. I wear size 15 collar and I guess the size would be a medium? Perhaps a small? I have no clue!
Well Mom, we actually finished reading the New Testament, and its funny that you ask what we are reading next because we just got that assignment today. Starting tomorrow morning we're going to be reading Preach My Gospel. The Brethren are worried that missionaries aren't following Preach My Gospel. We're reading 6 pages a day starting tomorrow which is actually pretty exciting. Reading it all together as a mission is powerful. To go along the lines with reading, this past week I just finished reading Jesus the Christ cover to cover. Up to date in my mission, I have read the Book of Mormon twice, the New Testament, The Pearl of Great Price, Our Search For Happiness. I'm halfway through reading Our Heritage, just short of 10 sections left in Doctrine and Covenants, and I'm in 3 Nephi 28 in the Spanish Book of Mormon. Looking back, I can't believe I've read so much.
So Elder Allen is my 'son' and I only trained him for about a transfer. I then got moved to another Elder, Elder Smith and I trained him for his second transfer. So I guess I have two half sons and Elder Allen has trained two visa waiters so I guess technically I'm a grandpa in the mission! Also Taylor, I went to both morning sessions of conference.
Something you mentioned Taylor was a very good way to describe how I'm coming along right now. I'm finding that way of being both myself, and being a missionary. I think it's funny because even though I'm in an area that is very trying and difficult, I find myself growing faster and faster. This area is really fun, and it's so easy now to have fun. For example, this past week wasn't very eventful and we didn't have 'fantastic' numbers, but I just remember it was a fun week. This area is also a very testimony trying area. There are a lot of anti-mormons here, including ex-members that think they know everything. Not only that, with all the polygamists here, they throw curve balls at literally every single point of doctrine in our church. It's hard to keep things straight sometimes but somehow the testimony just comes out stronger in the end.
Just know that I'm having fun and being happy and enjoying my mission! Thanks for all the support!
Love y'all
Elder Parks
P.S The attached picture is what me and my Australian companion used for our missionary posters (yes we know the flash was in it but it was ok for us)
So, hopefully everyone understands that I was kept here in Bluffdale/Riverton and my previous comp got sent to Kamas. Kamas is out past Park City, just keep heading east. It's out in the middle of nowhere.
My shirts and suits are holding up. Only if y'all could send me another short sleeve white shirt that would be great. I wear size 15 collar and I guess the size would be a medium? Perhaps a small? I have no clue!
Well Mom, we actually finished reading the New Testament, and its funny that you ask what we are reading next because we just got that assignment today. Starting tomorrow morning we're going to be reading Preach My Gospel. The Brethren are worried that missionaries aren't following Preach My Gospel. We're reading 6 pages a day starting tomorrow which is actually pretty exciting. Reading it all together as a mission is powerful. To go along the lines with reading, this past week I just finished reading Jesus the Christ cover to cover. Up to date in my mission, I have read the Book of Mormon twice, the New Testament, The Pearl of Great Price, Our Search For Happiness. I'm halfway through reading Our Heritage, just short of 10 sections left in Doctrine and Covenants, and I'm in 3 Nephi 28 in the Spanish Book of Mormon. Looking back, I can't believe I've read so much.
So Elder Allen is my 'son' and I only trained him for about a transfer. I then got moved to another Elder, Elder Smith and I trained him for his second transfer. So I guess I have two half sons and Elder Allen has trained two visa waiters so I guess technically I'm a grandpa in the mission! Also Taylor, I went to both morning sessions of conference.
Something you mentioned Taylor was a very good way to describe how I'm coming along right now. I'm finding that way of being both myself, and being a missionary. I think it's funny because even though I'm in an area that is very trying and difficult, I find myself growing faster and faster. This area is really fun, and it's so easy now to have fun. For example, this past week wasn't very eventful and we didn't have 'fantastic' numbers, but I just remember it was a fun week. This area is also a very testimony trying area. There are a lot of anti-mormons here, including ex-members that think they know everything. Not only that, with all the polygamists here, they throw curve balls at literally every single point of doctrine in our church. It's hard to keep things straight sometimes but somehow the testimony just comes out stronger in the end.
Just know that I'm having fun and being happy and enjoying my mission! Thanks for all the support!
Love y'all
Elder Parks
P.S The attached picture is what me and my Australian companion used for our missionary posters (yes we know the flash was in it but it was ok for us)
April 15, 2013
Dear Family,
Well, first transfers happened this week. My Australian comp left for KAMAS, I only had for 4 weeks and I was bumbed because he was leaving. Plus, he was a lot of fun, we just had weird experiences together. I received Elder Allen again! He is the missionary that I trained back in August. We're getting along well.
This week we found a lady that is visiting from Colombia. She's already read the Book of Mormon and has prayed about it and felt "peace, like it was true" so we're gonna teach her!
So to answer questions, this area is one of, if not, the biggest spanish area in the mission. We cover all of Riverton and all of Bluffdale. Many members live outside the area but they do help our the branch a lot in most of the leadership positions. It's not exactly half of the members, but many live outside the area.
Also, for the Malibu, it turned out it was just a dead battery but thats a dead car. The car was fixed in a day so it wasn't much of an issue. My Australian comp said the car just fails at everything, and he's pretty much right. However, the car gets us around places.
So when my trainer came up for conference, he was up with his family for a 2 week period. He visited all the people he knew during his mission. There was also a mission reunion during that time too that the previous missionaries got to go to. I took a picture and I'm sending it in this email.
Also, I failed to get a picture in the pink cadillac! We actually drove up to conference in a Mazda (the sports one or something like that). It was still a nice car but it wasn't a Mary Kay Pink Cadillac!
That's all for now! Love y'all!
Elder Parks
Well, first transfers happened this week. My Australian comp left for KAMAS, I only had for 4 weeks and I was bumbed because he was leaving. Plus, he was a lot of fun, we just had weird experiences together. I received Elder Allen again! He is the missionary that I trained back in August. We're getting along well.
This week we found a lady that is visiting from Colombia. She's already read the Book of Mormon and has prayed about it and felt "peace, like it was true" so we're gonna teach her!
So to answer questions, this area is one of, if not, the biggest spanish area in the mission. We cover all of Riverton and all of Bluffdale. Many members live outside the area but they do help our the branch a lot in most of the leadership positions. It's not exactly half of the members, but many live outside the area.
Also, for the Malibu, it turned out it was just a dead battery but thats a dead car. The car was fixed in a day so it wasn't much of an issue. My Australian comp said the car just fails at everything, and he's pretty much right. However, the car gets us around places.
So when my trainer came up for conference, he was up with his family for a 2 week period. He visited all the people he knew during his mission. There was also a mission reunion during that time too that the previous missionaries got to go to. I took a picture and I'm sending it in this email.
Also, I failed to get a picture in the pink cadillac! We actually drove up to conference in a Mazda (the sports one or something like that). It was still a nice car but it wasn't a Mary Kay Pink Cadillac!
That's all for now! Love y'all!
Elder Parks
April 8, 2013
Dear Family,
Conference was fun. Saw a few people from home/college but couldn't remember their names so I didn't approach them. Haha. I also met up with my trainer at conference. It was a brief moment but it was still nice to see him. He's going to school in Bogota Colombia right now so I'll haven to wait a while before I can see him again. I really liked this past conference, lots of talks about missionary work, perhaps the members around here will start helping us out more.
We cover just one branch right now. It's a good branch, and they work but they aren't too focused on missionary work. We wish that we could visit more of the members, but about half of the members live outside the branch boundaries. They take care of us for meals though, a little too well sometimes.
I don't drive the car now. I prefer to not drive because we got call numbers on the back of our cars and we can get a lot of bad driving calls. Which doesn't make sense because the people here drive worse than us. Haha
I'm not always senior companion too. Leadership positions are determined by the Mission President and they can change as often as he is inspired to do so. Leadership is never permanent.
With the mission being divided, all we know so far is that the english areas should be divided. Most spanish areas should stay the same and we should only lose 3 or 4 companionships, thus leaving a little more than 30 spanish missionaries.
The place we live in right now is another basement apartment. It is well suited with a bedroom, a large kitchen area, a bathroom and some study desks. Members live above us and they are very kind and polite. I'll take some more pictures of the place and send them next week!
That's all I got for now. Love y'all
Elder Parks
Conference was fun. Saw a few people from home/college but couldn't remember their names so I didn't approach them. Haha. I also met up with my trainer at conference. It was a brief moment but it was still nice to see him. He's going to school in Bogota Colombia right now so I'll haven to wait a while before I can see him again. I really liked this past conference, lots of talks about missionary work, perhaps the members around here will start helping us out more.
We cover just one branch right now. It's a good branch, and they work but they aren't too focused on missionary work. We wish that we could visit more of the members, but about half of the members live outside the branch boundaries. They take care of us for meals though, a little too well sometimes.
I don't drive the car now. I prefer to not drive because we got call numbers on the back of our cars and we can get a lot of bad driving calls. Which doesn't make sense because the people here drive worse than us. Haha
I'm not always senior companion too. Leadership positions are determined by the Mission President and they can change as often as he is inspired to do so. Leadership is never permanent.
With the mission being divided, all we know so far is that the english areas should be divided. Most spanish areas should stay the same and we should only lose 3 or 4 companionships, thus leaving a little more than 30 spanish missionaries.
The place we live in right now is another basement apartment. It is well suited with a bedroom, a large kitchen area, a bathroom and some study desks. Members live above us and they are very kind and polite. I'll take some more pictures of the place and send them next week!
That's all I got for now. Love y'all
Elder Parks
April 1, 2013
Dear Family,
So Easter was pretty intense. None of the hymns were easter related, and the branch can't sing loud/good too so me and my comp are in the back trying to raise the volume with our bass voices! Haha, also this lady at church was mad at us because we didn't go to her house for dinner (we didn't have anyone's name on the list so we went to eat with our branch president instead) and she kinda chastised us at church. That was fun. Then, we were filling out our mileage report in the car in the church parking lot, and then the car freaked out and turned off. Now the car won't start at all, the engine won't even make noise when we try to turn the engine over. It's a dumb car, the electronics freak out, the locks go up and down like crazy and the windshield wipers turn on when they shouldn't be on. It honks for at weird times too. It's getting towed today. It's a 2010 Malibu. To go along with that, we can't use our bikes because the lazy zone leaders have yet to bring my bike nor my companions bike to our house!!! However! We also had a Temple Square tour yesterday and the couple we took drove us in their sister-in-laws car. Here is the fun part, it was a PINK MARY KAY CADILLAC!!!! We were cruising on the highway in a pick tank!!! It was a lot a fun. Then temple square was good, the lady cried and was touched. Her baptism date is in for july due to her HUGE FAMILY WEDDING PARTY, but that is ok. I feel she'll keep her testimony till then, even though we may be gone so it's ok. I also saw Elder Sam Pew at Temple square! He had an investigator there too. We only talked for about 5 seconds but we recognized each other. After the tour we had dinner at a member's house, then we walked home because that alone took over an hour and that was our easter! Good day.
Another thing that happened, my trainer called me yesterday! We gonna have lunch together after district meeting tomorrow which it will be nice to see him again.
An interesting event, while we were in our car discussing about what area of the map we should cover, a small boy comes riding towards us on his scooter. About 10 feet in front of us, he gets off his scooter and goes near a bush and pees in the bushes! All the while, he is just STARRING at us, and we are starring right back at him. The finished his work the rode by us, starring at us the whole time. We just lost it then, we laughed for about 10 straight minutes.
We worked hard again this past week. Didn't have very much success though. We contacted a lot of referrals from the wards that we had received. A lot of them weren't too nice and the rest we're active members that didn't know anyone else. We spend a lot of time tracting because most, if not all of the members work during the day and don't get back till late in the evening. In Riverton, its more full of houses and neighborhoods but in bluffdale there is a lot more land for cattle, horses and such. I'll send some pictures of it.
I need Matt to start writing me regularly! I need advice on less-actives! Especially ones that aren't friendly at all.
I'm sending some pictures of the ones that I tried to send last time. I've also got a picture of the Polygamist temple/chapel and some pictures of what the land looks like. The picture with the floor mat, we knocked anyway.
Hope all is well! Love y'all
Elder Parks
So Easter was pretty intense. None of the hymns were easter related, and the branch can't sing loud/good too so me and my comp are in the back trying to raise the volume with our bass voices! Haha, also this lady at church was mad at us because we didn't go to her house for dinner (we didn't have anyone's name on the list so we went to eat with our branch president instead) and she kinda chastised us at church. That was fun. Then, we were filling out our mileage report in the car in the church parking lot, and then the car freaked out and turned off. Now the car won't start at all, the engine won't even make noise when we try to turn the engine over. It's a dumb car, the electronics freak out, the locks go up and down like crazy and the windshield wipers turn on when they shouldn't be on. It honks for at weird times too. It's getting towed today. It's a 2010 Malibu. To go along with that, we can't use our bikes because the lazy zone leaders have yet to bring my bike nor my companions bike to our house!!! However! We also had a Temple Square tour yesterday and the couple we took drove us in their sister-in-laws car. Here is the fun part, it was a PINK MARY KAY CADILLAC!!!! We were cruising on the highway in a pick tank!!! It was a lot a fun. Then temple square was good, the lady cried and was touched. Her baptism date is in for july due to her HUGE FAMILY WEDDING PARTY, but that is ok. I feel she'll keep her testimony till then, even though we may be gone so it's ok. I also saw Elder Sam Pew at Temple square! He had an investigator there too. We only talked for about 5 seconds but we recognized each other. After the tour we had dinner at a member's house, then we walked home because that alone took over an hour and that was our easter! Good day.
Another thing that happened, my trainer called me yesterday! We gonna have lunch together after district meeting tomorrow which it will be nice to see him again.
An interesting event, while we were in our car discussing about what area of the map we should cover, a small boy comes riding towards us on his scooter. About 10 feet in front of us, he gets off his scooter and goes near a bush and pees in the bushes! All the while, he is just STARRING at us, and we are starring right back at him. The finished his work the rode by us, starring at us the whole time. We just lost it then, we laughed for about 10 straight minutes.
We worked hard again this past week. Didn't have very much success though. We contacted a lot of referrals from the wards that we had received. A lot of them weren't too nice and the rest we're active members that didn't know anyone else. We spend a lot of time tracting because most, if not all of the members work during the day and don't get back till late in the evening. In Riverton, its more full of houses and neighborhoods but in bluffdale there is a lot more land for cattle, horses and such. I'll send some pictures of it.
I need Matt to start writing me regularly! I need advice on less-actives! Especially ones that aren't friendly at all.
I'm sending some pictures of the ones that I tried to send last time. I've also got a picture of the Polygamist temple/chapel and some pictures of what the land looks like. The picture with the floor mat, we knocked anyway.
Hope all is well! Love y'all
Elder Parks
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
March 25, 2013
Dear Family,
Well I forgot to take my camera out into the field this week, which really stinks because we found the Polygamist temple while working this week!!! It just looks like a normal big white building. No angel Moroni or nothing like that, just a big white building. We also ran into another polygamist family. They're interesting but super nice. We don't argue or anything, we just talk with them and ask questions regarding how our beliefs differ. I also got a pet a horse yesterday! We were walking down the side walk and it ran up to us and hung its MASSIVE HEAD over the fence and just stared at us.
My trainer didn't come up this week. He's coming in more towards general conference. Speaking of General Conference, we're getting calls this week as to what session we go to. I'm shooting for Sunday Morning but who knows what'll happen.
So my companions name is Elder Simon. He is from Melbourn and he has been out about 6 months almost. It was cool though, because the MTC takes all international missionaries to the Salt Lake Temple to do a session. To go along with that, he also did a session with all the new missionaries in this mission as well.
The New Testament reading is going good for me. I'm glad to be in Hebrews right now, because its full of doctrine. Some of Pauls epistles are just plain confusing though. Luckly we have President Miller's notes on what we are reading.
This week was kind of the same. We got a few referrals this past week at stake correlation meetings, and when we went to visit them, we found out that the english missionaries had tried teaching them before and spoiled the teaching opportunity! So much for that. We did a lot of tracting this past week again. Met a few weird people, including an old lady that is in a house that we though was abandoned. We were terrified when she opened up the door.
We're still working hard though. I think President wants us to fix up the area so thats what we're going to do.
Love y'all!
Elder Parks
March 18, 2013
Dear Family,
So actually the internet usage announcement was church wide I believe. We now have the same guidelines that Hilary has, just we need permission to email people of the opposite sex that live within the mission boundaries. No now with more time, and I'm bring my "Something to write home about" card I can hopefully think of more things to write!
I actually don't get cabin fever, namely because whenever it's bad weather we just can't drive however WALKING is for everyone at anytime! Haha we go walking in blizzards. However, since it's getting warmer we don't have so much of that anymore!
So an explanation for last week. There was another Emergency transfer last week so I wasn't really focused during emailing so that's why it may have been dull. I honestly don't know what happened in regards to the ET, no leadership called me about what was going on but I know that I wasn't doing anything bad. I'm now right next door to my old area in Riverton! I'm in another branch so it's a little small but its a good branch. The area is fairy slow since there aren't many spanish speakers but I'm not getting down on that. The area is kinda like farm land mixed with neighborhoods. I guess it can relate to Elgin or Burnett. The houses are nice though. Rich white members mostly. We have a car thankfully but it's nice to just go walking when its warm and tract because it's a good looking area.
Had some fun experiences this week. We tracted into a polygamist group!!! It was so weird but they were super friendly. It was kinda obvious that it was a polygamist area because there were over 4 billion kids...ok more like 30 and thats being realistic. Apparently that is a polygamist temple or something in our area too. Something that also happened yesterday, we went into someones backyard to visit a less active family and they had two massive arctic dogs! They were super friendly. Overly friendly. The jumped up on me and wouldn't stop licking my face! I would run away but they would follow me! I tried to juke them when they jumped at me but I couldn't evade them. So my comp held the gate open and I went running out as he closed the gate on the dogs. Oh yeah my new companion has been out for 5 months total and is from Melbourn Australia. Did Matt serve there? His Aus. accent mixed with his spanish is hilarious.
Bleh thats all I got. I need y'all to ask more questions, and I need to start writing stuff down again so I can have more to write. I'm so forgetful! Oh my trainer from Colombia is coming up next week and I get to see him!!!
That's all I got for now!
Love y'all!
Love,
Elder Parks
March 11, 2013
Dear Family,
Haha I'm doing good on notes. It's true though, we have a lot of visitors come to our mission. My trainer said that during the course of his mission, he had seen 10 of the 12 apostles at mission conferences.
We haven't gotten any news on who gets to go to conference yet. President Miller though just may get tickets for everyone! Since I went last year I may not go this year, but I don't know how the ticket things work here in the mission. We'll probably find out next week though or the week before conference.
So our plan for today, we're getting haircuts from a nice lady in West Jordan (she does them for free), then at 2 we're having a zone activity at the local institute building and we're having pizza and stuff like that so it'll be fun. Usually when the weather is bad we just play a board game or write letters at our houses.
I can't think of anything specific that I want for easter, so I'll just say surprise me! And I have been successful in not eating with a tongan family lately. I'm actually starting to get fat though! I wish I could be back on a bike, that made things easier.
This past week was a little slow just like the rest, but we're picking up though. Some families are coming into play, that we'll start teaching soon. Usually mom, when we go tracting, it's down a specific street that we believe may have spanish speakers. We don't have too many in our area so we gotta look hard for them. At first door approaches, I usually always start off in english. If I notice they have a spanish accent, then I'll ask if they speak spanish and go from there. It's not too complicated though and the people usually help out. They start off by saying 'hi" or "hola" or "not interested" or just a door slam! It's fun though. It's fun to meet such interesting people.
That's about all I got for now! I'll talk to y'all next week!
Love,
Elder Parks
March 4, 2013
Dear Family,
So transfer news, I'm still in the same area, same companion, only I'm not a District Leader anymore! I'm just senior comp! Such a relief. However, President Miller told me that now I have to go full-time with leading my companion. So I'm kinda in another situation of helping another missionary. However, he's helping me too so we're all good.
It was another slow week. What we are doing now is visiting the members and sharing short lessons with them. We also have been visiting less actives and teaching them/inviting them back to church. We've also been finding some new families in the area that don't know which church they go to so we help them get lined up with everything and start coming to our branch!
The Branch is beginning to pick up the support as well. Yesterday, the entire branch fasted for the missionary effort. The Branch President asked the branch to pray for missionary opportunities and start preaching the gospel themselves. He and our elders quorum president also asked for a list of our former investigators so that they could go visit them! I love the branch. They're so supportive and missionary minded.
We had another mission conference this past week and Elder Jay Jensen (former 70) gave us a talk on having better study habits of the scripture! He talked for about an hour and a half and gave me a lot of things to improve on! He went through every word in detail like "is" "therefore""wherefore" "yea"...it was a lot of stuff but it's all good because I got the entire talk on my voice recorder! For me, the most memorable part was when he took us through the beginning of section 138 of doctrine and covenants. He explained to us how the revelation was received and what the prophet was doing at the time so he could receive revelation. It was very cool to go through that experience.
No plans for spring break? Perhaps y'all could go hiking or something. I wish we could go hiking here like we did as a zone last year. Haven't been able to do it again yet but the weather is getting better here!!! I finally don't have to always put on a sweater anymore.
Well that's all I have time for right now. I love y'all a lot and miss y'all. Can't believe it's been 13 months...
Take care!
Love,
Elder Parks
February 25, 2013
Dear Family,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!!! Ripe old age of 52! Hahaha hope you have a good day!
I agree with you dad on Paul's writings in Romans. He is so confusing!!! President Miller gives us notes that we use to follow along but even with those it's hard to follow him.
So yes transfers are happening this week. No clue what will happen because a lot of stuff is going to happen. On Friday, we had a mission conference with Elder Clayton in the presidency of the 70. He told us that a new mission will be formed from our mission and the north mission! In only one year our mission will have been divided twice! It's going to be called the Salt Lake City East Mission which will make 5 proselyting missions here in the valley. Pretty crazy huh? We were also told the names of the 2 new mission presidents (our mission and the East mission). The south mission president is a teacher right now up at BYU-Idaho. It's gonna get crazy here by July, I could potentially be in a new mission again!
Taylor I have been in Scheels. It's in my area and so is that In-n-out on 123rd. Scheels is too nice to go into, and especially as missionaries(or RMs probably) everything is too expensive to buy! Haha we walk in sometimes and just imagine buying stuff.
Another hard week this. Didn't teach any lessons at all. However we're still pushing forward and looking for those that are ready to receive us.
Hope all is well with y'all!
Love
Elder Parks
P.S I'll get more pictures/send the pictures again. I forgot my camera at home today.
February 18, 2013
Dear Family,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MATT!!! What is Taylor doing for your birthday???
Thanks for the Blue Bell card and the money! We actually went out to go eat with the money but then somebody covered us so then we got ice cream later on. I did get the box last week with all the candy and I did share the candy with others. The monkey magnets are also up on the fridge!
While we were tracting we found a chair that was 10 feet tall! I sat in it while my comp took a picture so I'll send it.
Well, it was another uninteresting week. I'm still working to find fun things to do in the process. Well, one night we got bored so we went to Chik-fil-a and got some ice cream. Other than that we had a lot of people slam their doors to us. Oh well, those doors are still fun!
I'm glad that y'all are up to date on the New Testament reading! I've loved reading Saul/Paul and his conversion story! He's such a great missionary. If it weren't for him, we wouldn't have half of the New Testament! What has been your favorite scripture so far during the reading?
Well, thats really all I got for now! Talk to y'all later!
Love,
Elder Parks
Sunday, February 17, 2013
February 11, 2013
Dear Family,
Well, this week was pretty rough too. The two people that we are teaching both got called into work on sunday when both of them said that they had the day off and promised to come to church. We may have to stop teaching them as well since they aren't doing anything that we're asking them. May have to start over again this week.
We've been working hard this past week but not many things have come out of it. I went on an exchange with the former Assistant to the President and we both worked really hard but didn't find anyone to teach. We've taught a few lessons but with nobody progressing, the lessons didn't really serve their purpose. However, it's all good. My testimony is growing in the gospel and my knowledge is getting deeper.
We went to the Temple this past week which was really fun. It's nice that we can go to the temple once a transfer.
We got our car fixed this last week! I hit the sideview mirror on a filled trash can and broke the attachment to the car. We were told that the fix was suppose to take an hour but we were in and out in 15 minutes! I feel spoiled in the fact that we don't have to say anything or pay anything to get the cars fixed. I guess it helps that the car isn't ours.
That's really all I got for right now. Past few months have been rough but I'm pushing along.
Thanks for the support from home!
Love y'all
Elder Parks
February 4, 2013
Dear Family,
Well I went on 3 exchanges this week with other companions. It was a really busy week! The only problem is that nobody we are teaching want to progress so we're just gonna start all over with our teaching pool. I've been having a lot of fun this week though. My companion talks and makes jokes a lot.
My spanish is coming along as well! I'm in Alma 34 in the Book of Mormon. My accent is really starting to disappear. What I need to start doing now is studying vocabulary! I'm getting excited about it. Being fluent sounds like a lot of fun, especially when you encounter mean people.
Sorry, I don't have much more, it was just an uneventful week as well.
Love y'all!
Elder Parks
Monday, January 28, 2013
January 28, 2013
Dear Family,
So for transfers, I'm still in the same area, I'm still a district leader, I gained a new companionship, and a new companion!
Oh and by the way, I am eating some apples and strawberries and turkey sandwiches so I'm mixing up the meals a little. We do fairly well for our dinner list. Every other week we're booked with the spanish branch. The english wards have been slacking. Kinda disappointing.
I can't believe it's Bishop Anderson!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That's cool! I'll be coming home to a Bishop Anderson!
So I reviewed my allowances that I've received in the past few months and decided that I don't need to ask y'all to buy me clothes! I won't get everything at once but over time. I'll let y'all know if I need anything special. I have 3 suits right now but I'm about to trash one. My shoes and boots are staying good and keeping me warm and dry. My socks are staying together as well.
So this past Thursday was my first experience with black ice! It was fun to go skating for a little. We still had a zone meeting that day and everyone had to drive there haha. I thought half of us would've died.
On saturday we began role playing during comp study to a stuffed elk in the basement with us! It was fun and added a change to our studies.
Sunday we had a blizzard come through! Our cars got grounded and so our Branch President asked us if he could take us to an appointment who actually wasn't there. We tried to leave the apartment complex, but his car couldn't make it up the hill because of the snow and ice! So we proceeded to walk towards walmart to get picked up by a member in the ward.
I love this work. It is so much fun serving the Lord, and meeting strange and fun people. The experience of changing the lives of families and individuals is amazing.
Love y'all!
Elder Parks
P.S
If you could send me Caleb and Paul's addresses again that would be great.
January 21, 2013
Dear Family,
Well it's been super cold! Apparently it was -1 this morning. Ridiculous. However, I'm staying as warm as I can. I'm lucky to have a car.
We got transfers coming up this week. I'm pretty sure I'm staying (President told me kinda) as a district leader here. He also told me that I'll be getting a new companionship in my district so I'll be up to 6 missionaries again rather than 4! My interview with him was interesting (we had interviews this past tuesday). He had me read 2 Nephi 2:25. He then told me that to be joyful/happy was a commandment! Haha he thinks that I came to this mission to change into an optimistic person! He's probably right. I'm starting to change. It's just been hard though this past transfer, with the area itself and also with others in the district. President challenged me to have my 2nd year of my mission to be happier than the first.
I don't have a crock pot taylor but I think I should be fine without. I'll work on my cooking here in the mission. I'm gonna try some things and hopefully then turn out good!
Also, with my year mark coming up, I'm gonna be replacing all my clothes. Should I keep a pair of garments forever to remember my mission? I have about 35 dollars for Target so I can get some shirts on my own. Garments, I don't have my sizes memorized so I'll get back to y'all next week on that. Suits and slacks, don't need to worry about. My suits are worn (one I've already trashed because of it always getting holes) but a service missionary in my branch gave me two free suits that fit me! Both jackets and slacks fit perfectly. So I'll get back to y'all next week on clothes that I need!
We started Luke today! I think it's interesting that we have a book of the Gospel written in Mary's perspective. Matthews was in the eyes of Joseph and Luke is in Mary's perspective.
Hope everyone is doing alright!
Love y'all
Elder Parks
January 14, 2013
Dear Family,
The entire mission got flue shots this morning! Haha some missionaries were freaking out! President Miller said that he couldn't wait for the Tongans to get there a get scared to death. Sure enough, some of the Tongans and other islanders came in. One of them, who is the strongest and biggest missionary in the mission (he was a former gang member in Samoa and was involved in several fights) was scared to death of the needles!!!! It was so funny to see.
My leg isn't being bothered or anything like that Dad. I don't have any pain anymore on my left leg.
So with shopping, I usually go to Walmart. What I'm really talking about is after my mission. I really don't know how to make any unique meals or anything like that. I'm living off macn cheese and microwave meals and jello (which right now I am fine with since I don't have time to cook) but I don't want to be like that after my mission. I want to be a good cook! I'm managing my budget well so money isn't much of an issue. Just the fact of selecting things that I could make and have them be cheap but good-tasting meals.
With the storm coming through this past weekend, our cars were grounded and we were told to walk! Once, they told us to ground our cars at 6:15, we had a lesson that was 8 miles away and I had an interview to do at the same time. So we had to cancel the lesson and I did the interview! It's a bummer that we didn't get the lesson in but we got it re-scheduled so its ok.
Mom, tips for sharing the Gospel, I would first recommend praying for opportunities to share the gospel! Keeping the Church magazines on the table for the parents of your piano students is great! If they read it, talk to them about it. Invite them out to church. Invite them to mormon.org, or even a visit from the missionaries! Always carry a Book of Mormon with you so that you'll always be reminded to be looking for opportunities to share the Gospel. As we give effort, the Lord will recognize it and will reward us with opportunities to share it! Keeping that in my mind during my mission has helped me a lot. Although there is a number attached to how many souls I've led into the waters of baptism, I don't have a number concerning the number of seeds I have helped plant in many others. I hope that at judgement I'll get to learn how many others I helped.
I also think you should try learning spanish! That would be fun! We could practice when I get home. You could get a simple grammar book, study it and get the basics down. Then you could buy a Spanish Book of Mormon and read it out loud right next to the English version. That has helped me immensely.
I love y'all. Stay safe!
Elder Parks
January 7, 2013
Dear Family,
Well Mom, I've come to the conclusion that I just need to practice grocery shopping with you when I get home. Plus, I got the watch y'all sent me. Got it sized up today and I'm wearing it right now! Thanks for the gift.
Elder Christofferson was awesome. He was funny too. He encouraged us to not stop being missionaries even when we are released. He went on to say that his release date is set for him and that there is no way out hahaha! He told us to be patient with ourselves. He talked about prayer and our relationship with God. He let us know that God knows what we are asking for in our prayers and that He knows us better than we know ourselves. He also told us something really cool, the fact that he said that Jesus Christ is a very active leader in this Church. He said that He is not off visiting others all the time but that He is always mindful of the Church and its progress. He told us not to be consumed by our imperfections.
Dad, the reason why we have differences in missions is because of the mission presidents. They determine the rules of the mission and can adapt other rules as they wish because they're the key holders of the mission area. Also, dad I learned a good lesson my 3rd transfer of how numbers aren't everything so I don't feel pressured to bring in high numbers.
I don't have my original missionary picture on me but you can select one of me that y'all have already if you want.
I don't have my new years resolutions on me but one that stands out is being 90% efficient in spanish by the end of the year and having finished the Book of Mormon in spanish twice this year.
I'm so happy that y'all are reading the New Testament too!!! We were told that we were going to start reading the New Testament together as a mission at a training for District Leaders, and we all loved the idea.
Taylor, I haven't slipped yet! I've gone slidding many times but I haven't fallen yet. I'm staying warm too and I shovel snow mainly for our landlords and for anyone else we can as well.
Well I gotta go but I'll get some pictures in this one! I'll add more next time when I get on a faster computer.
Love,
Elder Parks
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