March 5, 2011

Dear Friends and Family, March 5,2011

Sunday we held our fireside for investigators and new recent converts with Area President Mervyn Arnold. The missionaries were instructed that they could attend only if they brought investigators with them . All of the missionaries in the five zones in and around Asuncion were invited. Out of the 46 companion ships of missionaries in those zones all but 7 companionships were in attendance with investigators. We were so pleased to see so many people come to hear President Arnold. There were around 400 people there that evening and we met some wonderful investigators who were so excited to come and be taught more of the gospel. It was good for the missionaries to be in such a large group of investigators and see the force of power and strength we can be in the country here. Much of the missionary’s time is spent in small branches and wards so it was a great evening for all who were able to attend.

Monday morning we had a zone leaders’ council with the addition of the district leaders from the Asuncion area . We began at 8 am and then President Arnold joined in at around noon for two and a half more hours. I was invited to go with the other mission president’s wife to show Sister Arnold some of the typical artisan items of Paraguay and then we went to lunch and out for ice cream. It was so fun to go out and just visit and share experiences with each other of the life here. While we were out having fun the elders were being taught and instructed by Elder Arnold. He is a man full of energy and wants everyone to speed up the work and not waste a second. The missionaries came away encouraged and ready to work harder!

Tuesday we went to a district meeting in La Florista. Elder Alexander did a great job of passing along the teachings he had received at the council with Elder Arnold on Monday. We have some good leaders who are trying hard to encourage and help their districts.

The rest of the week was spent with Mark dealing with some issues with missionaries. There are always missionaries who need extra encouragement and help. One of the blessings of the mission is to watch the growth of these young people as they deal with the challenges of the mission and personal problems. It is so wonderful to see hearts change and progress made. At times the progress is slow but as long as they are moving forward their lives will be blessed forever. I’ve had lots of study time this week and I am always grateful to see how the Lord teaches us the things we need in our lives as we take the time to study and read. Very specific things I have read and studied were exactly what I needed this week. When we are constantly “treasuring up” the Lord can help us recall the things we are learning when we need it most.

This week Elder Smith will leave the office. He has been an amazing help to President in keeping records and reports flowing. He has helped develop some graphs and other charts to help missionaries see their progress. He is a bright young man with a positive attitude and will continue to bless the mission as he goes out to a new area to serve. Elder Fowers is trained and ready to take over!

We hope you all have a wonderful week! Love, Mark and Sandy