Hello Family & Friends!! It was good to talk to you on Christmas! :) It sounds like everyone is doing well. I hope that the spirit of Christmas remains in our hearts throughout this year, and always, as we remember our savior Jesus Christ and what he has done in our be half. I'm so grateful for him, and the example of charity that he is to all of us! We had a nice Christmas Eve dinner with all of the missionaries here in Katowice...and had sheperds pie with lots of fruits and vegetables, and banana bread :). It was great! On Sunday we woke up and went to church and had sacrament meeting where we were priviledged to hear from Elder McGrath and the Branch President. We then had lunch with all of the missionaries later in the day, and ate chili and cornbread haha :)...and listened to christmas music and were able to talk to you!
To re-cap on some things of this past week, we were able to contact a few people on the streets who were interested in reading the Book of Mormon, so that was exciting news! We had another lesson with Iwona and we taught her about the Godhead and the role of the Holy Ghost. We had the lesson at a member's house (Carlos & Ella & their son Natan) and Ella bore strong testimony of her conversion story...and said that one day when she was reading the Book of Mormon she recieved a firm witness that it was true. She felt so happy and at peace. The Holy Ghost works differently for everyone..but it will bear testimony of truth if we sincerely DESIRE to change our lives and know if something is right. It was an amazing lesson :).
On Friday night we made banana bread and put it in baggies to pass out to people that we have met...and went around on Saturday afternoon and delivered it. It was fun! And they were super happy to try it haha :).
It's crazy that it is going to be 2012 already, but I'm excited for the things that are going to be happening in this next year. Good things are coming to Poland :). I love the people here...and know that there are souls who are being prepared to hear the message of the restored gospel. I know with my whole heart that it is true. I am so happy and grateful for this knowledge and am so blessed to be sharing it with the people in Poland. Missionary work is amazing...and I have seen so many little miracles come from it. EVERYTHING IS WORTH IT!!! I know that happiness comes through enduring to the end and having the faith that good things are coming to us.
Have an amazing week!!! I love you all, and pray for you every single day :).
"...it being a small voice it did pierce them that did hear to the center, insomuch that there was no part of their frame that it did not cause to quake; yea, it did pierce them to the very soul, and did cause their hearts to burn" 3 Nephi 11:3
HAVE A HAPPY NEW YEARS!!! Love always, Siostra 4c!!! :)
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
DECEMBER 19TH
Hello!! czas lechi! (time flys) I hope you are all having a great week! :) and a nice break! Wesolych Swiat!! MERRY CHRISTMAS to you all this Sunday...it's such an amazing time of the year, and I'm so grateful for our savior Jesus Christ and for the hope and happiness that he gives to us all. I hope we can all keep the spirit of Christmas with us every day of the year, as we reflect on his birth.
This week have worked really hard, and have tried to talk to as many people as we could. We do alot of contacting on the streets since it is pretty busy in the city, and we were able to talk to a man who lives in Lublin, which is a northern city from here, and he found the message of the restoration very interesting, and said that he was interested in reading the Book of Mormon, and meeting with his family with the missionaries that are Lublin. It was so awesome! It is awesome to meet people who are searching for something more in their lives...and he was one of them :).
This week since it is busy with the holidays we weren't able to meet with a lot of our investigators, but on Saturday Dorota and her daughter came to our Christmas Party...which was a full chapel of people and investigators! it was great. We watched the Christmas message given by the first presidency and then we had LOTS of food haha. Lots of traditional polish food...and sweets. We made some bannana bread for it...and brought some mandarin oranges at a fruit stand. Dorota set up a meeting to meet next week either on the 29th or 30th before new years, so we are looking forward to that :).
Juana got in a car accident over the weekend unfortunately, so she is trying to get her car fixed...and wasn't able to make it to the Christmas party or church, but she is luckily safe and not hurt, and will be giving us a call this week so that we can meet again! Iwona is doing well, and we are going to meet with her this week...maybe on Saturday and have another lesson with her.
This past week has suprisingly not been too cold...and it still hasn't snowed yet...but the ward members are saying that probably after Christmas we will see snow haha. In the evenings we go to klotkeys (apartments) and ring peoples doors...so were going to do that tonight again!
We are doing well, and trying our best to keep our faith - and be exactly obedient - in which we know more miracles will occur. Poland is such an incredible country and I have grown to love the people and culture here more everyday. I know that great things are going to be happening here in Katowice - and am excited to be a part of it!
"Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus..." 1 Peter 5:14
Love, Siostra 4c
This week have worked really hard, and have tried to talk to as many people as we could. We do alot of contacting on the streets since it is pretty busy in the city, and we were able to talk to a man who lives in Lublin, which is a northern city from here, and he found the message of the restoration very interesting, and said that he was interested in reading the Book of Mormon, and meeting with his family with the missionaries that are Lublin. It was so awesome! It is awesome to meet people who are searching for something more in their lives...and he was one of them :).
This week since it is busy with the holidays we weren't able to meet with a lot of our investigators, but on Saturday Dorota and her daughter came to our Christmas Party...which was a full chapel of people and investigators! it was great. We watched the Christmas message given by the first presidency and then we had LOTS of food haha. Lots of traditional polish food...and sweets. We made some bannana bread for it...and brought some mandarin oranges at a fruit stand. Dorota set up a meeting to meet next week either on the 29th or 30th before new years, so we are looking forward to that :).
Juana got in a car accident over the weekend unfortunately, so she is trying to get her car fixed...and wasn't able to make it to the Christmas party or church, but she is luckily safe and not hurt, and will be giving us a call this week so that we can meet again! Iwona is doing well, and we are going to meet with her this week...maybe on Saturday and have another lesson with her.
This past week has suprisingly not been too cold...and it still hasn't snowed yet...but the ward members are saying that probably after Christmas we will see snow haha. In the evenings we go to klotkeys (apartments) and ring peoples doors...so were going to do that tonight again!
We are doing well, and trying our best to keep our faith - and be exactly obedient - in which we know more miracles will occur. Poland is such an incredible country and I have grown to love the people and culture here more everyday. I know that great things are going to be happening here in Katowice - and am excited to be a part of it!
"Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus..." 1 Peter 5:14
Love, Siostra 4c
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Getting Ready for Christmas
Dzien Dobry! Yesterday we got together as a whole zone to have a Christmas party and watch the Christmas Message given by the first presidency which was amazing if you haven't already seen it! But we sang lots of Christmas songs, went caroling in the center of town, and read from the scriptures about the savior's birth...and ate lots and lots of yummy food! it was a great time.
Things are going well here in Poland, and we have lots of things to look forward to in these next two weeks. We have a Christmas party this coming Saturday, and are inviting our investigators to it (which we are excited about!) and are going to be going caroling as a district and contacting people. We had another lesson with Iwona this week and talked with her about baptism...but she said she needs more time to think about it and feel ready, so we will continue to teach her and help her progress :). It was Juana's birthday on Sunday so she ended up not making it to church, but she said she will for sure be there this sunday, so we are excited for that! Were hoping that she makes it to the Christmas party as well. This week we have done alot of tracting and contacting...but being the colder season we are moving to apartment buildings so that we can be right at their front door and more effective! It still hasn't snowed here crazily haha...but it has rained a couple of times...and we tract with this bright, pink umbrella which stands out in the dark...and makes people more interested lol. :).
But being a missionary is such an amazing experience, and I know that the Lord is working miracles here in Poland. It is an Amazing country with such incredible people. The members in the Katowice branch were able to go to the temple in Germany this past week, and on sunday they bore their testimonies of their experience, and it was so powerful to hear them. Katowice is AWESOME! I love it. We are also going to invite our english class to the Christmas party, so we hope that maybe a couple show up.
We do alot of contacting on the streets as well...and my Polish is getting better...but I'm striving to improve each day, and know that heavenly father is helping me. I have learned the importance of having faith...and knowing that miracles can happen if we strive to have the spirit with us constantly. Sister Marshall is an awesome trainer, and we are working harder and harder each day to improve our contacting skills...and talk with people.
I know that Christ is our Savior and that he loves us so much! I know without a doubt that the Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ, and the word of God. I feel so edified and spiritually re-energized when I read it, and know that it is true and can help us in anything we are struggling with. I am so grateful for this Christmas season, and hope that we can remember to keep Christ at the center of our lives every day of the year...and know that you will see miracles in your life and be more happy then you ever thought possible. He is the light of the world which can never be darkened :). I pray for you daily, and hope that you truly have a fantastic week! :)
"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith". 2 Timothy 4:7.
love always, Sister 4c :)
Things are going well here in Poland, and we have lots of things to look forward to in these next two weeks. We have a Christmas party this coming Saturday, and are inviting our investigators to it (which we are excited about!) and are going to be going caroling as a district and contacting people. We had another lesson with Iwona this week and talked with her about baptism...but she said she needs more time to think about it and feel ready, so we will continue to teach her and help her progress :). It was Juana's birthday on Sunday so she ended up not making it to church, but she said she will for sure be there this sunday, so we are excited for that! Were hoping that she makes it to the Christmas party as well. This week we have done alot of tracting and contacting...but being the colder season we are moving to apartment buildings so that we can be right at their front door and more effective! It still hasn't snowed here crazily haha...but it has rained a couple of times...and we tract with this bright, pink umbrella which stands out in the dark...and makes people more interested lol. :).
But being a missionary is such an amazing experience, and I know that the Lord is working miracles here in Poland. It is an Amazing country with such incredible people. The members in the Katowice branch were able to go to the temple in Germany this past week, and on sunday they bore their testimonies of their experience, and it was so powerful to hear them. Katowice is AWESOME! I love it. We are also going to invite our english class to the Christmas party, so we hope that maybe a couple show up.
We do alot of contacting on the streets as well...and my Polish is getting better...but I'm striving to improve each day, and know that heavenly father is helping me. I have learned the importance of having faith...and knowing that miracles can happen if we strive to have the spirit with us constantly. Sister Marshall is an awesome trainer, and we are working harder and harder each day to improve our contacting skills...and talk with people.
I know that Christ is our Savior and that he loves us so much! I know without a doubt that the Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ, and the word of God. I feel so edified and spiritually re-energized when I read it, and know that it is true and can help us in anything we are struggling with. I am so grateful for this Christmas season, and hope that we can remember to keep Christ at the center of our lives every day of the year...and know that you will see miracles in your life and be more happy then you ever thought possible. He is the light of the world which can never be darkened :). I pray for you daily, and hope that you truly have a fantastic week! :)
"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith". 2 Timothy 4:7.
love always, Sister 4c :)
Monday, December 5, 2011
First week of DECEMBER! :)
Hello Family and friends! I can't believe that it is offically December now! It has come up so fast. But this week has been a great one :). We have done lots of tracting and some contacting, and have had a couple lessons this week...so things are moving forward.
We met with Iwona and reviewed the Plan of Salvation with her and talked to her about baptism a little bit, but she seems do be doing well and is still coming to church and to our weekly english class. But she is definately gaining a greater understanding of the gospel, and is continuing to read the Book of Mormon! :)
We met with Juana again on Saturday, because she came back in town from Wroclaw, and we taught her the plan of salvation. She is definately searching, and has tried out a lot of different faiths, but she is committed to coming to church this coming Sunday, and we hope to have another lesson with her after church. Since she is a social worker, she is doing a lot of service for people who have alcohol problems, and is helping out a ton with that this week. But Juana is Awesome! I love her.
This week we also met with a lady named Kasia who meets with the missionaries about every three weeks, but still hasn't commit to coming to church or anything, so we will see what happens with that...but we taught her a first lesson...and committed to reading the book of mormon more!
When we were contacting through a huge park they have in Katowice this week we talked to a lady named Kinga who has a little baby boy, and her best friend Conrad - who is still single- and they were so AWESOME! They were so open, and expressed how they wished that people had better values, and that families were more united...and we gave them a book of mormon and a family to the proclomation...so hopefully we meet with them. But i couldn't stop similing after we talked to them (even though I didn't understand everything they were saying, of couse :) haha) but they were definately being prepared by the Lord.
Today for P-day we were able to go to Auschwitz, and it definately is something that makes you think and reflect on your life, and beliefs. I am grateful for all of your love and support and wish you the best Christmas season as we reflect on the birth of our savior, Jesus Christ.
"Wherefore, stand ye in holy places, and be not moved..." D&C 87:8.
Love, Siostra 4c!
We met with Iwona and reviewed the Plan of Salvation with her and talked to her about baptism a little bit, but she seems do be doing well and is still coming to church and to our weekly english class. But she is definately gaining a greater understanding of the gospel, and is continuing to read the Book of Mormon! :)
We met with Juana again on Saturday, because she came back in town from Wroclaw, and we taught her the plan of salvation. She is definately searching, and has tried out a lot of different faiths, but she is committed to coming to church this coming Sunday, and we hope to have another lesson with her after church. Since she is a social worker, she is doing a lot of service for people who have alcohol problems, and is helping out a ton with that this week. But Juana is Awesome! I love her.
This week we also met with a lady named Kasia who meets with the missionaries about every three weeks, but still hasn't commit to coming to church or anything, so we will see what happens with that...but we taught her a first lesson...and committed to reading the book of mormon more!
When we were contacting through a huge park they have in Katowice this week we talked to a lady named Kinga who has a little baby boy, and her best friend Conrad - who is still single- and they were so AWESOME! They were so open, and expressed how they wished that people had better values, and that families were more united...and we gave them a book of mormon and a family to the proclomation...so hopefully we meet with them. But i couldn't stop similing after we talked to them (even though I didn't understand everything they were saying, of couse :) haha) but they were definately being prepared by the Lord.
Today for P-day we were able to go to Auschwitz, and it definately is something that makes you think and reflect on your life, and beliefs. I am grateful for all of your love and support and wish you the best Christmas season as we reflect on the birth of our savior, Jesus Christ.
"Wherefore, stand ye in holy places, and be not moved..." D&C 87:8.
Love, Siostra 4c!
czesc!!!
My new address!! If you are sending packages: Ul. Wiertnicza 135, I Pietro
02-952 Warszawa Polska (Poland)
If you are writing letters: Ul. Korfantego 22/15
40-127 Katowice, Polska/Poland
Hello family and friends!! Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving week, and were able to spend some quality time with your families and those you love most! And of course ate some traditional food :). We had our own thanksgiving with us missionaries here, and we all brought a dish, and cooked a turkey...and had a great time! it was fun haha.
But this week has been a great week! On monday we had preparation day...and got together with all of the elders and the senior couple who is here and had a scavenger hunt then after ate lunch all together :). We then used our last hour and met up with a girl who wants to learn english better, and talked with her in english...and taught her some grammar. She seems to be catching on really quick, and we have another meeting set up with her later today! On Tuesday we had a district meeting with all the missionaries here...and then we went out trackting later that day and contacting. We went contacting in this HUGE park that they have here and were able to talk with some moms and pass out some flyers...and then later that night we went to our usual trackting spot where we go door-to-door. But no one was super interested, but that didn't get us discouraged :).
On wednesday we did more contacting and trackting, and on Thursday we had a meeting with Iwona - and watched a restoration video, which went really well! We then taught english later that night...and then on Saturday we met with Iwona again and taught her tha plan of salvation at a member's house...and that also went really well.
The branch here in Katowice is one of the biggest in Poland, and we have an awesome youth here! We have about 30 people at church and we are seeing some awesome things happen here! THey just formed a choir here for the first time, so I"m playing the piano for it, and we should be able to have some musical numbers in sacrament meeting, which will be awesome!
Later this week we have a couple appointments, hopefully one with Juana, and maybe Dorota...her daughter had finals for school last week, so it was kind of a crazy week for them and Juana was out of town but we are hoping for a lesson with them this week!
But Poland is such an AMAZING country to be in! I love it so much! The members here are awesome and alot of them are new converts, but they have such strong testimonies! it's a blessing to be a part of this branch. I hope you all have a fantastic week as it is now going to be the Christmas season :)
Ephesians 5: 19-20
"Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs; singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord. Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ".
Love always, Siostra 4c! :)
02-952 Warszawa Polska (Poland)
If you are writing letters: Ul. Korfantego 22/15
40-127 Katowice, Polska/Poland
Hello family and friends!! Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving week, and were able to spend some quality time with your families and those you love most! And of course ate some traditional food :). We had our own thanksgiving with us missionaries here, and we all brought a dish, and cooked a turkey...and had a great time! it was fun haha.
But this week has been a great week! On monday we had preparation day...and got together with all of the elders and the senior couple who is here and had a scavenger hunt then after ate lunch all together :). We then used our last hour and met up with a girl who wants to learn english better, and talked with her in english...and taught her some grammar. She seems to be catching on really quick, and we have another meeting set up with her later today! On Tuesday we had a district meeting with all the missionaries here...and then we went out trackting later that day and contacting. We went contacting in this HUGE park that they have here and were able to talk with some moms and pass out some flyers...and then later that night we went to our usual trackting spot where we go door-to-door. But no one was super interested, but that didn't get us discouraged :).
On wednesday we did more contacting and trackting, and on Thursday we had a meeting with Iwona - and watched a restoration video, which went really well! We then taught english later that night...and then on Saturday we met with Iwona again and taught her tha plan of salvation at a member's house...and that also went really well.
The branch here in Katowice is one of the biggest in Poland, and we have an awesome youth here! We have about 30 people at church and we are seeing some awesome things happen here! THey just formed a choir here for the first time, so I"m playing the piano for it, and we should be able to have some musical numbers in sacrament meeting, which will be awesome!
Later this week we have a couple appointments, hopefully one with Juana, and maybe Dorota...her daughter had finals for school last week, so it was kind of a crazy week for them and Juana was out of town but we are hoping for a lesson with them this week!
But Poland is such an AMAZING country to be in! I love it so much! The members here are awesome and alot of them are new converts, but they have such strong testimonies! it's a blessing to be a part of this branch. I hope you all have a fantastic week as it is now going to be the Christmas season :)
Ephesians 5: 19-20
"Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs; singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord. Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ".
Love always, Siostra 4c! :)
Monday, November 21, 2011
First Week Teaching
Hello once again family and friends!! This week has been such an incrediblel week!! We have met with some amazing people, and I can definately tell that Heavenly Father is preparing people to hear the message of this wonderful gospel. It's awesome :).
So on Tuesday and Wednesday we trackted a lot in our assigned areas, and also in the central area of Katowice, and we were able to talk to a few people...but no one that was super interested in our message. But we had a few appointments set up with potential investigators who Sister Marshall had met with once or twice before with her other companion...so on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday we met with people. It was great!
On Thursday we taught english to a group of about 15-20 people, and then we bore our testimonies and read from the scriptures at the end. The spirit was definately there, and the people expressed the love they had for us. After english we taught a potential investigator named Iwona. She is about in her late 50's...and was found by Sister Marshall and her previous companion who asked her for directions...and they left her with a flyer...the next they know she started coming to english and even showed up to church! So We taught her a second lesson of the Plan of Salvation and she is really putting in the work to read the Book of Mormon, and to come to church. I'm excited for our upcoming meeting with her on Thursday.
On friday we met with a lady named Dorota and her 4 children!! They are an AMAZING family! She has a daughter who is 18 and who really is interested in finding out if the book of mormon is true. She is so awesome! There are two twin boys who are teenagers (i'm not exactly sure how old they are) but one of them commited to also read it...as well as the younger son who is about 14 yrs. old. Dorota also thinks it is important to read it and said that she would commit to reading it...and we all read the promise together that the Book of Mormon has in the introduction, and they all expressed that they would like to come to find out for themselves if it was true. One of the recent converts in the Katowice branch is Adrean who is around 20 yrs. old, but we took him with us...and he did such an amazing job talking and testifying of the Book of Mormon and his conversion story. He said, first i was curious...and then as I started reading it, I came to find out it was true. Dorota then said...that's the first step. Curiosity. And we are curious :). I"m so excited for this family, and know that they are being blessed and prepared!
On Saturday we met with a referal that we got this week from the Elders. Apparantely they went to this house seeing if they could meet with her son...but he had moved to Wroclaw...but she expressed interest in meeting with us, so we gave her a call and set up a meeting. Her name is Juana and she is in her late 40's. She is so AWESOME too! She is a social worker, and is really trying to find God in her life again. She expressed that she once was really close to God...but the more busy she got in life...she started to rely more on herself and essentially lost God. She had a lot of questions about our church...and expressed that she wants to find a church where she can feel the spirit when she goes to church. She is Catholic, but stated that when she goes to church with everyone she doesn't feel the spirit there...unless if she is completely alone and is praying to God. We gave her a copy of theh Book of Mormon and she said she would most definately read it...and wants to come to church. She is going to be out of town for the next 2 weeks to visit her son in Wroclaw...but we are meeting with her once she gets back! She was so loving and genuine. I'm looking forward to meeting with her again :). Poland is awesome!
On sunday we met with a family who have one daughter. The mother's name is Ania and the father is named Tadyjusz. I'm not sure if I spelled that right! The daughter is Julia...and is around 8 yrs. old. They really enjoyed talking to us....they are strong Catholics...but were curious to see what we believed. We answered some of their questions and showed them pictures of our families...which they really enjoyed! We didn't set up another definate meeting but we gave them our number :)
But I have enjoyed this week, and know that if we continue to work hard, that we will be able to led by the spirit of where to find those who are waiting to hear the message that the restored gospel is once on the earth again. It is such a powerful message, and the more i bear my testimony the more i feel the truthfulness of the message, and know with a surety that it is true. I am so grateful for this opportunity to be here in Poland and to meet such incredible people and families! I love it. I love the happiness that the gospel brings to our lives, and how much peace and comfort we can recieve because of it. With thanksgiving coming up this week, I hope we can all remember how much we are blessed with and how much heavenly father truly does love us! Have an Amazing week! :)
love, Siostra 4c
"ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you..." D&C 4:7
So on Tuesday and Wednesday we trackted a lot in our assigned areas, and also in the central area of Katowice, and we were able to talk to a few people...but no one that was super interested in our message. But we had a few appointments set up with potential investigators who Sister Marshall had met with once or twice before with her other companion...so on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday we met with people. It was great!
On Thursday we taught english to a group of about 15-20 people, and then we bore our testimonies and read from the scriptures at the end. The spirit was definately there, and the people expressed the love they had for us. After english we taught a potential investigator named Iwona. She is about in her late 50's...and was found by Sister Marshall and her previous companion who asked her for directions...and they left her with a flyer...the next they know she started coming to english and even showed up to church! So We taught her a second lesson of the Plan of Salvation and she is really putting in the work to read the Book of Mormon, and to come to church. I'm excited for our upcoming meeting with her on Thursday.
On friday we met with a lady named Dorota and her 4 children!! They are an AMAZING family! She has a daughter who is 18 and who really is interested in finding out if the book of mormon is true. She is so awesome! There are two twin boys who are teenagers (i'm not exactly sure how old they are) but one of them commited to also read it...as well as the younger son who is about 14 yrs. old. Dorota also thinks it is important to read it and said that she would commit to reading it...and we all read the promise together that the Book of Mormon has in the introduction, and they all expressed that they would like to come to find out for themselves if it was true. One of the recent converts in the Katowice branch is Adrean who is around 20 yrs. old, but we took him with us...and he did such an amazing job talking and testifying of the Book of Mormon and his conversion story. He said, first i was curious...and then as I started reading it, I came to find out it was true. Dorota then said...that's the first step. Curiosity. And we are curious :). I"m so excited for this family, and know that they are being blessed and prepared!
On Saturday we met with a referal that we got this week from the Elders. Apparantely they went to this house seeing if they could meet with her son...but he had moved to Wroclaw...but she expressed interest in meeting with us, so we gave her a call and set up a meeting. Her name is Juana and she is in her late 40's. She is so AWESOME too! She is a social worker, and is really trying to find God in her life again. She expressed that she once was really close to God...but the more busy she got in life...she started to rely more on herself and essentially lost God. She had a lot of questions about our church...and expressed that she wants to find a church where she can feel the spirit when she goes to church. She is Catholic, but stated that when she goes to church with everyone she doesn't feel the spirit there...unless if she is completely alone and is praying to God. We gave her a copy of theh Book of Mormon and she said she would most definately read it...and wants to come to church. She is going to be out of town for the next 2 weeks to visit her son in Wroclaw...but we are meeting with her once she gets back! She was so loving and genuine. I'm looking forward to meeting with her again :). Poland is awesome!
On sunday we met with a family who have one daughter. The mother's name is Ania and the father is named Tadyjusz. I'm not sure if I spelled that right! The daughter is Julia...and is around 8 yrs. old. They really enjoyed talking to us....they are strong Catholics...but were curious to see what we believed. We answered some of their questions and showed them pictures of our families...which they really enjoyed! We didn't set up another definate meeting but we gave them our number :)
But I have enjoyed this week, and know that if we continue to work hard, that we will be able to led by the spirit of where to find those who are waiting to hear the message that the restored gospel is once on the earth again. It is such a powerful message, and the more i bear my testimony the more i feel the truthfulness of the message, and know with a surety that it is true. I am so grateful for this opportunity to be here in Poland and to meet such incredible people and families! I love it. I love the happiness that the gospel brings to our lives, and how much peace and comfort we can recieve because of it. With thanksgiving coming up this week, I hope we can all remember how much we are blessed with and how much heavenly father truly does love us! Have an Amazing week! :)
love, Siostra 4c
"ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you..." D&C 4:7
Arrival to Poland
Dzien Dobry family & friends!!! Well it's official! I am finally in Poland am loving it!! My first area is a big city called Katowice, and we live right in the center of it! It's crazy haha. Our apartment complex is so huge, I don't even think that I could fit the whole thing in a picture! But to recap on the week, we got to Warsaw on Tuesday late afternoon...and because of the time difference, I'm sure we all looked way tired, but we went straight to the mission home and at a huge plate of delicious spaghetti, roles, salad and this amazing polish cheesecake! It feels great to have some home-made food. :). The next day we got ready and got to go to the Warsaw rynek and it is absolutley beautiful! I felt like I was walking into a storybook. But I got to go with one of the sister missionaries who was serving there and go talk to people, and I was able to talk to this girl who was my same age - and give her a Book of Mormon and get her number, so it was exciting to see people respond in a positive way to the gospel. After that we ate at a milk bar...where there is chape traditional polish food, and we had perrogi's with mash potatoes. Not bad! When we got back to the mission home we met our trainers and the area we would be serving in. I found out that Katowice was my first area and that Siostra Marshall would be my trainer! I was super excited, because I had heard a lot of good things about this city, and Sister Marshall has been an awesome trainer. My first few days here have been great. On Thursday morning we took a train from Warsaw to here...it took about 3 hours, and then we got everything settled into the apartment. Going grocery shopping is really fun! We go to this food market that is connected to a mall...it's about 5 minutes away, and then we go out to the fruit stands that are on the Rynek and buy these apples and bannanas. Every Thursday night we teach an english class, so we prepared for that...and a lot of ladies showed up to it. I tried speaking as much as I could, but I have a lot to learn :). On Friday we went out trackting and during the winter season it gets dark here around 4 o'clock which means that it gets colder....and on Friday night is was SUPER cold! haha. But today we are going shopping for some winter things, because just in the past week or two the weather has dropped. The area where we get to go trakt is in these neighborhoods that are about 10 minutes out of the city...we take a tamvaj everywhere we go...which is all through the city...and we get off and start. It's awesome because Poland is mostly apartments, but we get to go to these homes which means we are meeting more families! it's awesome. People who aren't interested usually just shut their windows on us, or say no thankyou, or say they are too old to hear this haha, or you find the few that do want to hear it :). But keeping a positive attitude is essential...and the people that do want to hear it our worth finding :). But the food is awesome! The chocolate and ice cream are heaven...same with the yogurt. I'm excited to go shopping today and to experience more stuff...but I hope you all have an AMAZING week!
I know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is what makes us truly happy in this life, and is what helps us endure to the end. I know that heavenly father is preparing people right now to hear the message of this restored gospel, and the blessings that come from it. It is an incredible work, and I'm excited to share it withe wonderful people in POLAND!
Stay incredible :) Love, Siostra 4c :)
Matthew 5:6
"Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled."
I know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is what makes us truly happy in this life, and is what helps us endure to the end. I know that heavenly father is preparing people right now to hear the message of this restored gospel, and the blessings that come from it. It is an incredible work, and I'm excited to share it withe wonderful people in POLAND!
Stay incredible :) Love, Siostra 4c :)
Matthew 5:6
"Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled."
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Saturday, November 5, 2011
More MTC Photos!!
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| Random fact about Melissa: She LOVES Fresca! |
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| This was actually taken the day she entered the MTC before we dropped her off. |
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| I guess they do celebrate Halloween in the MTC ;) |
MTC--Sister Forsey's last week
Hello family and friends!!! This week has been a great one! I hope you all had a Happy Halloween and that things went well for you all. Well our district is heading out to Poland this coming Monday, and we got our flight plans on Thursday of last week! We have a couple of inter-connecting flights....salt lake to chicago and then from chicago to London and the finally to Warsaw!!! So we should be in Poland around 3:45 Poland time come Tuesday :). Were super excited! This week on Friday we had a party as a district for completing some goals we had for the language, so we all brought lots of food - and family pictures - and had a great time :). Our district is awesome and I'm excited for them to touch the lives of people in Poland because they have such strong testimonies!
On sunday during relief society we were able to hear from Sister Dalton - The President of the Relief Society and she was such an amazing speaker! She talked alot about how we can do all things through Christ...and that we can succeed in life through his atonement. It was an amazing talk! I also got called on to speak in sacrament meeting on sunday...and then i was asked to bear my testimony in polish at the end of it...so that was a great experience right before i'm about to leave :)
Yesterday, on Halloween, all of the elders dressed up as different elders and switched name tags, practiced each others accents, did their hair like each other...it was pretty funny. One of the elders got stopped by someone who aksed him what his grandpa's name was because he knew of his last name, and he said "i don't know"....but then later had to say he dressed up as another elder for Halloween! it made me crack up :). But we did track-or-treat among classrooms, and had to teach a lesson to whichever door we knocked on and then got a piece of candy when we were done. It was fun to switch things up!
But today we have packing like crazy, got our hair trimmed, and were able to go to the temple for the last time for awhile :( but it was a good last time to go! But I love you all and am excited to email you next week once I am in Poland! :) I want you to know that I have a testimony of this gospel and of our savior Jesus Christ. I know that we are all children of a loving heavenly father that really is in the minor details of our lives. I'm excited to teach this wonderful gospel to the people in Poland and to serve them! until next time...czesc!!! :)
"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me". Philippians 4:13
love, siostra 4c!
On sunday during relief society we were able to hear from Sister Dalton - The President of the Relief Society and she was such an amazing speaker! She talked alot about how we can do all things through Christ...and that we can succeed in life through his atonement. It was an amazing talk! I also got called on to speak in sacrament meeting on sunday...and then i was asked to bear my testimony in polish at the end of it...so that was a great experience right before i'm about to leave :)
Yesterday, on Halloween, all of the elders dressed up as different elders and switched name tags, practiced each others accents, did their hair like each other...it was pretty funny. One of the elders got stopped by someone who aksed him what his grandpa's name was because he knew of his last name, and he said "i don't know"....but then later had to say he dressed up as another elder for Halloween! it made me crack up :). But we did track-or-treat among classrooms, and had to teach a lesson to whichever door we knocked on and then got a piece of candy when we were done. It was fun to switch things up!
But today we have packing like crazy, got our hair trimmed, and were able to go to the temple for the last time for awhile :( but it was a good last time to go! But I love you all and am excited to email you next week once I am in Poland! :) I want you to know that I have a testimony of this gospel and of our savior Jesus Christ. I know that we are all children of a loving heavenly father that really is in the minor details of our lives. I'm excited to teach this wonderful gospel to the people in Poland and to serve them! until next time...czesc!!! :)
"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me". Philippians 4:13
love, siostra 4c!
Friday, October 28, 2011
MTC--Week7
Dzien Dobry!! Less than two weeks now!! I can't believe how fast time has gone, since the first day we have been here. The MTC has been awesome though and I have learned so much, and have really enjoyed this experience! It is amazing! :) Last Tuesday we were able to hear from Elder Richard G. Scott, and he was an incredible speaker. His love for us, and for his savior was so strong, and he truly testified of the love that Jesus Christ has for each of us. I quote, "I know that Jesus Christ lives. I know that he guides this church himself. I know he will work before you. He will open doors before you. He will guide you. He loves you. If you have a problem - be patient. Let him give you piece of mind and direction. I know him and his son and I bear record and testify with every cell and capacity that I have that he lives." He also talked about carrying around a journal wherever we go, so that we can write down spiritual impressions that we have. He said that this will be one of the greatest treasure that we have in this life, and that if we are willing to take the time to write down the spiritual promptings we recieve, the Lord will give us more.
The rest of this week we have been trying to cram in as much Polish as we can....since we are getting down to the last 2 weeks....and we set a goal to have a set of vocabulary and cases memorized by this Friday - and if we do we are going to have a party :). haha. So we are looking forward to that! This week I feel like I have been able to express myself more easily in Polish and to memorize more words - as well as listen better :) so things are moving along. It's interesting to see the progress we have made since the first day here....and by the end of our missions how much we will know. But the gift of tongues works!!
This week I was made coordinating sister over the district, which means I have to help the new sisters that are coming here this week move in and make sure that everything is okay. It will be wierd leaving before this new district, because we have seen so many people come and go, and this time it will be us leaving! crazy.
It definately feels like fall outside, and the leaves on the trees are beautiful. We were able to go to the temple today, which is always something to look forward to :).
On Sunday, Sandra Rogers spoke to us and she really stressed the importance of being happy now in our lives. she said "If your constantly waiting for a certain circumstance you will forget to recieve the joy now."
I will be getting my travel plans on Friday, so I will let you all know what time I leave for the airport on that Monday!!
I'm grateful to be a missionary and to serve the Lord. It is such an amazing experience and I have felt the spirit so strong here, and know too that Jesus Christ lives, and that he is here to lead and guide us :). Stay strong and positive!! I pray for you all! :)
Alma 26:27 "Now when our hearts were depressed, and we were about to turn back, behold, the Lord comforted us, and said: Go amongst thy brethren, the Lamanites, and bear with patience thine afflictions, and I will give unto you success".
Love, Siostra 4c :)
The rest of this week we have been trying to cram in as much Polish as we can....since we are getting down to the last 2 weeks....and we set a goal to have a set of vocabulary and cases memorized by this Friday - and if we do we are going to have a party :). haha. So we are looking forward to that! This week I feel like I have been able to express myself more easily in Polish and to memorize more words - as well as listen better :) so things are moving along. It's interesting to see the progress we have made since the first day here....and by the end of our missions how much we will know. But the gift of tongues works!!
This week I was made coordinating sister over the district, which means I have to help the new sisters that are coming here this week move in and make sure that everything is okay. It will be wierd leaving before this new district, because we have seen so many people come and go, and this time it will be us leaving! crazy.
It definately feels like fall outside, and the leaves on the trees are beautiful. We were able to go to the temple today, which is always something to look forward to :).
On Sunday, Sandra Rogers spoke to us and she really stressed the importance of being happy now in our lives. she said "If your constantly waiting for a certain circumstance you will forget to recieve the joy now."
I will be getting my travel plans on Friday, so I will let you all know what time I leave for the airport on that Monday!!
I'm grateful to be a missionary and to serve the Lord. It is such an amazing experience and I have felt the spirit so strong here, and know too that Jesus Christ lives, and that he is here to lead and guide us :). Stay strong and positive!! I pray for you all! :)
Alma 26:27 "Now when our hearts were depressed, and we were about to turn back, behold, the Lord comforted us, and said: Go amongst thy brethren, the Lamanites, and bear with patience thine afflictions, and I will give unto you success".
Love, Siostra 4c :)
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
MTC--Week 6
Czesc family and friends! I hope all of you are doing well :). I can't believe today is already October 18th! It has been a great week. I'll start off where I left, on Tuesday night Julie B. Beck spoke to us of the importance of temples - by being able to make sacred covenants, and also where we seal families together, not just for time, but for all eternity. Temples are the house of the Lord and as engraved upon them, as it says in Exodus 28:36 "And thou shalt make a plate of pure gold, and grave upon it, like the engravings of a signet, holiness to the Lord". It has been a great blessing to be able to go to the temple each week since being here, and to be able to feel of the peace that comes from them :).
This past week our Polish has been improving, as we have been trying to practice more speaking it with each other, which has really helped. I'm trying to focus on more of the grammar side of it this week so that i will be able to sound better when speaking it lol, instead of just throwing out random words :). We have had some pretty funny language moments. I told someone that it was"'important to keep the haircuts of God". Instead of 'commandments' haha. Yesterday Sister Sheahan said "When I was a bottle of honey", instead of "when i was young". It's pretty hilarious lol. Good times!
On sunday, sister Erlyn Madsen spoke to us. And when talking she quoted one of the general authorities when saying "memorizing scriptures is like filling a file cabinet of friends that can be called upon at any time and place". I love that, because scriptures truly are the words of God, and can bring us great happiness, comfort, and peace in this life - and through memorization we can be strengthened by their power.
This week has been warmer which is nice, because we have been able to run outside again! :) I should be getting my travel plans next week - which will be fun to see where our connecting flights are! The Bulgarians go their visas on Friday, which was truly a miracle, and left yesterday morning, so we were way excited for them!
Being a missionary is such an amazing and wonderful blessing! I love every second of it. It's worth waking up at six every day, and studying hours on end, because of the knowledge and power of our savior Jesus Christ. I cannot wait to share the most important message in the world to the people in Poland. That we have a heavenly father who loves us - and a savior who atoned and died for each of us. And that we can repent and be forgiven of our sins and recieve comfort through our adversities. That we can be sealed to our families for eternity, through the priesthood that is on the earth today - the same priesthood that Christ had- and that we have a living prophet who recieves direct revelation from God. The power of the scripures - the Book of Mormon and Bible that testify of our savior, Jesus Christ, who leads and guides us today. I wish you all a great week, and leave you with a few scriptures :)
1 Peter 1:7 "That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ".
Love, Siostra 4c :)!
This past week our Polish has been improving, as we have been trying to practice more speaking it with each other, which has really helped. I'm trying to focus on more of the grammar side of it this week so that i will be able to sound better when speaking it lol, instead of just throwing out random words :). We have had some pretty funny language moments. I told someone that it was"'important to keep the haircuts of God". Instead of 'commandments' haha. Yesterday Sister Sheahan said "When I was a bottle of honey", instead of "when i was young". It's pretty hilarious lol. Good times!
On sunday, sister Erlyn Madsen spoke to us. And when talking she quoted one of the general authorities when saying "memorizing scriptures is like filling a file cabinet of friends that can be called upon at any time and place". I love that, because scriptures truly are the words of God, and can bring us great happiness, comfort, and peace in this life - and through memorization we can be strengthened by their power.
This week has been warmer which is nice, because we have been able to run outside again! :) I should be getting my travel plans next week - which will be fun to see where our connecting flights are! The Bulgarians go their visas on Friday, which was truly a miracle, and left yesterday morning, so we were way excited for them!
Being a missionary is such an amazing and wonderful blessing! I love every second of it. It's worth waking up at six every day, and studying hours on end, because of the knowledge and power of our savior Jesus Christ. I cannot wait to share the most important message in the world to the people in Poland. That we have a heavenly father who loves us - and a savior who atoned and died for each of us. And that we can repent and be forgiven of our sins and recieve comfort through our adversities. That we can be sealed to our families for eternity, through the priesthood that is on the earth today - the same priesthood that Christ had- and that we have a living prophet who recieves direct revelation from God. The power of the scripures - the Book of Mormon and Bible that testify of our savior, Jesus Christ, who leads and guides us today. I wish you all a great week, and leave you with a few scriptures :)
1 Peter 1:7 "That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ".
Love, Siostra 4c :)!
Thursday, October 13, 2011
MTC--Week 5
Hello again!! It is now week 5 here at the MTC and it has been a pretty good week to say the least! :) We are continuing to study polish as we are about to head out in less then 4 weeks! It's crazy that we have been here over a month - and to think of the great things that are awaiting us - but as each day passes I am getting more and more excited to go to Poland - and to teach and serve the people that are there :). I came across this scripture that talks about missionary work, but relates to life in general, and found a lot of comfort in it! It's in D&C 84:88 It says "And whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up." I love it! I know that if we put our trust and faith in heavenly father that he will provide a way fo us to keep going and that we will have angels bearing us up always :).
On Sunday, Jean stevens - who is the first counselor in the primary - talked to us, and she had a lot of great words to share! She talked of this great message of Jesus Christ and how it matters to EVERYONE. Because every soul matter to heavenly father. By loving as the savior did - there is no greater joy then watching others come to know their savior. It reminds me of the saying "Be kind. For everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." We are all in this life together, and by helping each other, and serving each other, we can feel of the love of Christ more abundantly in our lives. As they say, God often works through others to meet our needs :).
We are continuing to teach 2 lessons a day - and i can understand more of what is being said, whcih is a good sign haha. it has gotten a lot colder outside, so we have been staying inside for gym this week and just running around the track...but I hope we have more warmer weather :). This afternoon we were able to go to the temple, like we do each week, so it was something to look forward to :).
The Bulgarians in our district weren't able to leave today for Bulgaria because their visas still haven't come yet, so they might get reassigned for the time being if they aren't here by Friday, but we are praying that they will be able to leave next week! But I love all of you guys, and pray for all of you! I love this gospel of Jesus Christ, and have gained a strong testimony of his atonement, and the love that he individually has for each and everyone of us. He can make our burdens light if we let him and sincerely pray to him!
Mosiah 24:14-15
"And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions. And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his bretheren were made light; yea, the Lord did strenghten them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord."
Have a fantastic week!!!!! Love always, Siostra 4c :)
On Sunday, Jean stevens - who is the first counselor in the primary - talked to us, and she had a lot of great words to share! She talked of this great message of Jesus Christ and how it matters to EVERYONE. Because every soul matter to heavenly father. By loving as the savior did - there is no greater joy then watching others come to know their savior. It reminds me of the saying "Be kind. For everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." We are all in this life together, and by helping each other, and serving each other, we can feel of the love of Christ more abundantly in our lives. As they say, God often works through others to meet our needs :).
We are continuing to teach 2 lessons a day - and i can understand more of what is being said, whcih is a good sign haha. it has gotten a lot colder outside, so we have been staying inside for gym this week and just running around the track...but I hope we have more warmer weather :). This afternoon we were able to go to the temple, like we do each week, so it was something to look forward to :).
The Bulgarians in our district weren't able to leave today for Bulgaria because their visas still haven't come yet, so they might get reassigned for the time being if they aren't here by Friday, but we are praying that they will be able to leave next week! But I love all of you guys, and pray for all of you! I love this gospel of Jesus Christ, and have gained a strong testimony of his atonement, and the love that he individually has for each and everyone of us. He can make our burdens light if we let him and sincerely pray to him!
Mosiah 24:14-15
"And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions. And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his bretheren were made light; yea, the Lord did strenghten them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord."
Have a fantastic week!!!!! Love always, Siostra 4c :)
Monday, October 10, 2011
MTC Photos
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| Sister Forsey and Sister Sheahan |
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| Sister Forsey with her other companion who will be serving in Bulgaria |
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| Poland Warsaw District |
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| Sister Sheahan's Birthday! |
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
MTC--Week 4
Czesc family and friends! I hope all of you have had a great week so far! :) I am now almost half way done here at the MTC, and will be in Poland in a month and three days counting! I'm so excited! This week, like all weeks lol, alot has happened. As far as our classes and Polish, we have been busy trying to learn as much as possible! I'm not sure if I already told you, but we have three different teachers: Brother Broadbent, Daly, and Rushtein - who all returned from serving in the Poland Warsaw mission within the last three years. Brother Broadbent actually got to do an internship there this past summer, working for a company. They are all awesome, and are great at teaching us this language. The Polish language is like a huge puzzle, and once you start to put it together piece by piece it all starts to fall into place...so so were trying our best to get more pieces added on :). It is hard and difficult, but I know that if we continue to be patient, heavenly father will keep blessing us to be able to learn it!
This past weekend was great, with general conference, and being able to hear from the prophet Thomas S. Monson and all of the other inspired general authorities. I really like what Thomas S. Monson said about society now days, and it made me think that we really need to live what we believe, and to stand as witnesses of Jesus Christ at all times, in all things, and in all places. He states, "Although the world has changed, the laws of God have not, and will not change". As we learn in the scriptures, God is the same yesterday, today, and forever - he is unchangeable. It is hard to live in a world with changing values, but with our values centered on Christ - we will be able to withstand the adversary. As it says in Helamen 5:12 "And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall." I love that scripture!
Another talk that I really loved was given to the sisters in the church by Elder Uchtdorf - which was inspired by the flower: Forget-me-nots. He states, "No matter how dark your days may seem, no matter how insignificant you may feel, no matter how overshadowed you think you may be, your Heavenly Father has not forgotten you. In fact, He loves you, with an infinite love." One of the points he talked about was to be HAPPY NOW and he related it to the story Willy Wonka, and how we are all in search of our golden ticket in life...but forget to enjoy the actual chocolate of what we have been given. He says "If we spend our days waiting for fabulous roses, we could miss the beauty and wonder of the tiny forget-me-nots that are all around us." Great words to live by! :)
But overall, things are going well! It's crazy that I have been here a month, but I have learned so much, and have enjoyed all of it. It is such an incredible experience, and I know that what I have and will learn will bless my life significantly! I hope all of you have a fantastic week! Until next time....czesc!!! :)
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
"Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth int he truth; beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things."
Love, Siostra 4c :)
This past weekend was great, with general conference, and being able to hear from the prophet Thomas S. Monson and all of the other inspired general authorities. I really like what Thomas S. Monson said about society now days, and it made me think that we really need to live what we believe, and to stand as witnesses of Jesus Christ at all times, in all things, and in all places. He states, "Although the world has changed, the laws of God have not, and will not change". As we learn in the scriptures, God is the same yesterday, today, and forever - he is unchangeable. It is hard to live in a world with changing values, but with our values centered on Christ - we will be able to withstand the adversary. As it says in Helamen 5:12 "And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall." I love that scripture!
Another talk that I really loved was given to the sisters in the church by Elder Uchtdorf - which was inspired by the flower: Forget-me-nots. He states, "No matter how dark your days may seem, no matter how insignificant you may feel, no matter how overshadowed you think you may be, your Heavenly Father has not forgotten you. In fact, He loves you, with an infinite love." One of the points he talked about was to be HAPPY NOW and he related it to the story Willy Wonka, and how we are all in search of our golden ticket in life...but forget to enjoy the actual chocolate of what we have been given. He says "If we spend our days waiting for fabulous roses, we could miss the beauty and wonder of the tiny forget-me-nots that are all around us." Great words to live by! :)
But overall, things are going well! It's crazy that I have been here a month, but I have learned so much, and have enjoyed all of it. It is such an incredible experience, and I know that what I have and will learn will bless my life significantly! I hope all of you have a fantastic week! Until next time....czesc!!! :)
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
"Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth int he truth; beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things."
Love, Siostra 4c :)
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
MTC--Week 3
Dzien Dobry!! It has officially been three weeks here at the MTC, so we are now 1/3 of the way done here! It's crazy. The days seem long, but the weeks fly by! And I got VERY EXCITING news this week that Megan & Sean are now the parents of lil' baby Lincoln Mcwhorter!!! Congratulations you guys! You are going to be incredible parents :) From the pictures I saw, he is a adorable! I am now officially an aunt, and proud to be one :).
To start things off, of where I left off, last week on Tuesday night we were able to hear from Elder Russel M. Nielson. He is one of my favorite speakers, and his message was simple yet powerful and important. He talked a lot about the scriptures, and specifically the Book of Mormon and how it being another testament of Jesus Christ prepares us in these last days for the second coming. Through it we build our faith, and it specifically promises us at the beginning and the end of the book, that if we will read it, and pray to God with a sincere heart, we may know the truth of it and of all things through the holy ghost. It is so amazing to have that promise! :) I'm excited to share my testimony of the Book of Mormon and Bible, and how these books hand-in-hand can prepare us, strengthen us, build our fatih and values, and answer our prayers. The scriptures are truly words that are here for all generations of time. No matter who you are, they can help you :).
This week we have taught a lot of lessons in Polish - two a day almost! I'm understanding a lot more when people speak, and am trying to practice forming sentences with the right grammar. I can't believe how much we have already learned! I remember the first day we were here and I could barely say the word thankyou, and now we can say complete sentences, teach people and share our testimonies in it. The gift of tongues is real! :) We are actually the first group of Polilsh missionaries that are being trained with this new language program, so it's exciting to see how much progress we are all making. At times it is hard to be patient, with the difficulty, but i know it will come if we keep our faith :).
On Sunday we were able to hear from Randy J. Harris, who is the mission district president, and his wife and I really like what both had to say. Sister Harris shared a story of when she was riding her bike in a windstorm, and how she prayed to heavenly father to stop the wind. As she rode the wind grew stronger and stronger, all the way until she reached her destination. A little frustrated and puzzled she recieved a distinct voice inside her mind that said, " I did not still the wind. Instead I gave you the strength to overcome it". Like her experience, we all have the winds of life that are beating down on us, whatever they may be. But i know that if we put our faith and trust in heavenly father, that he will give us the strength to rise above the adversary and come out strong and victorious. "Always say 'yes' to the Lord and 'no' to the world".
But I hope you are all doing well and know that heavenly father will bless you! I love this gospel of Jesus Christ, and feel honored and priviledged to bear his name and to go forth and teach people about it. I know that the Book of Mormon and Bible are the words of God. I know that Joseph Smith restored the fullness of the gospel back to the earth, all because he prayed to know for himself the truth. I know we are all children of a loving heavenly father, and through his son, Jesus Christ, we can return to him. Until next time... Do Zobaczenia :) (see ya).
Love always, Siostra 4c :)
"Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the words of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life." 2 Nephi: 21:20.
To start things off, of where I left off, last week on Tuesday night we were able to hear from Elder Russel M. Nielson. He is one of my favorite speakers, and his message was simple yet powerful and important. He talked a lot about the scriptures, and specifically the Book of Mormon and how it being another testament of Jesus Christ prepares us in these last days for the second coming. Through it we build our faith, and it specifically promises us at the beginning and the end of the book, that if we will read it, and pray to God with a sincere heart, we may know the truth of it and of all things through the holy ghost. It is so amazing to have that promise! :) I'm excited to share my testimony of the Book of Mormon and Bible, and how these books hand-in-hand can prepare us, strengthen us, build our fatih and values, and answer our prayers. The scriptures are truly words that are here for all generations of time. No matter who you are, they can help you :).
This week we have taught a lot of lessons in Polish - two a day almost! I'm understanding a lot more when people speak, and am trying to practice forming sentences with the right grammar. I can't believe how much we have already learned! I remember the first day we were here and I could barely say the word thankyou, and now we can say complete sentences, teach people and share our testimonies in it. The gift of tongues is real! :) We are actually the first group of Polilsh missionaries that are being trained with this new language program, so it's exciting to see how much progress we are all making. At times it is hard to be patient, with the difficulty, but i know it will come if we keep our faith :).
On Sunday we were able to hear from Randy J. Harris, who is the mission district president, and his wife and I really like what both had to say. Sister Harris shared a story of when she was riding her bike in a windstorm, and how she prayed to heavenly father to stop the wind. As she rode the wind grew stronger and stronger, all the way until she reached her destination. A little frustrated and puzzled she recieved a distinct voice inside her mind that said, " I did not still the wind. Instead I gave you the strength to overcome it". Like her experience, we all have the winds of life that are beating down on us, whatever they may be. But i know that if we put our faith and trust in heavenly father, that he will give us the strength to rise above the adversary and come out strong and victorious. "Always say 'yes' to the Lord and 'no' to the world".
But I hope you are all doing well and know that heavenly father will bless you! I love this gospel of Jesus Christ, and feel honored and priviledged to bear his name and to go forth and teach people about it. I know that the Book of Mormon and Bible are the words of God. I know that Joseph Smith restored the fullness of the gospel back to the earth, all because he prayed to know for himself the truth. I know we are all children of a loving heavenly father, and through his son, Jesus Christ, we can return to him. Until next time... Do Zobaczenia :) (see ya).
Love always, Siostra 4c :)
"Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the words of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life." 2 Nephi: 21:20.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
MTC--Week 2
Alright! Hello family and friends! :) This week has been such an amazing, and eventful week! On Tuesday night we were priviledged to hear from Elder Ballard and his wife Barbara, and they had some very inspiring words to say. They talked a lot about missionary work and how the gospel is such an amazing blessing in our lives. Elder Ballard states, "Having the gospel in our lives is such an amazing blessing in our lives." He then goes on to quote Wilford Woodruff saying "No matter what may come upon you, round up your shoulders and bear the things that come. Always sustain and defend the Kingdom of God". We need to stand up for what we believe in, keep our values strong, and press forward with a steadfastness in Christ. "You cannot change the world if you are conformed to it".
This week I feel like I have learned alot about Polish - Considering we have now taught five lessons in it! haha. I don't know if I told you last week, but we had to teach the second day we were here in it, but it is slowly, but surely coming! We have learned how to pray, bear our testimonies, conjugate, and lots and lots of other things. Me and Sister Sheahan carry around vocabulary flash cards wherever we go! It's pretty funny haha. Even when we are running outside we quiz each other with them, but i guess it's a good a way to get better :) This week was also Sister Sheahans b-day, so it was fun suprising her throughout the day with lots of candy, and we all sang to her in Polish haha. :) We also did a musical number on sunday. She sang an awesome arrangement of "I Believe in Christ" and I played the piano for her - so every spare ten or fifteen minutes we got we would try to find a piano to practice on! But it went really well :). The elders that are going to Poland with us are hilarious. They keep me and sister Sheahan laughing 24/7, and I'm beginning to think that I have laughed too much if thats possible haha. But it keeps us happy and motivated, and not too stressed out about all the Polish to learn!
On Sunday during Relief Society, we were able to hear from sister Sharee Bird and she was incredible! She shared this quote by President Monson, something along the lines of "When we are faced with trials, reamin steadfast and of a good cheer, making Christ always the center of our lives, and we will be able to overcome anything that comes our way". As Jesus Christ teaches: "In the world you shall have tribulation. But be of good cheer. For I have overcome the world. The only lasting joy and happiness will come through our savior Jesus Christ. For it is eternal happiness that lasts.
I know that heavenly father has great things in store for all of his children. If we let him guide us miracles will happen, and good things will be here to come. I know that Jesus is the Christ and that he atoned for our sins, and has been where we have been and below. "For he descended below all things". I love the scriptures, and know they can speak directly to us and help us with any challenge we are faced with. They truly testify of our Savior Jesus Christ.
As it reads in D&C 68:6 "Wherefore, be of good cheer, and do not fear, for I the Lord am with you, and will stand by you; and ye shall bear record of me, even Jesus Christ, that I am the Son of the living God, that I was, That I am, and that I am to come".
Thankyou all for your wonderful love and support!!! I love you all and am praying for you!!
Love,
Siostra Forsey
This week I feel like I have learned alot about Polish - Considering we have now taught five lessons in it! haha. I don't know if I told you last week, but we had to teach the second day we were here in it, but it is slowly, but surely coming! We have learned how to pray, bear our testimonies, conjugate, and lots and lots of other things. Me and Sister Sheahan carry around vocabulary flash cards wherever we go! It's pretty funny haha. Even when we are running outside we quiz each other with them, but i guess it's a good a way to get better :) This week was also Sister Sheahans b-day, so it was fun suprising her throughout the day with lots of candy, and we all sang to her in Polish haha. :) We also did a musical number on sunday. She sang an awesome arrangement of "I Believe in Christ" and I played the piano for her - so every spare ten or fifteen minutes we got we would try to find a piano to practice on! But it went really well :). The elders that are going to Poland with us are hilarious. They keep me and sister Sheahan laughing 24/7, and I'm beginning to think that I have laughed too much if thats possible haha. But it keeps us happy and motivated, and not too stressed out about all the Polish to learn!
On Sunday during Relief Society, we were able to hear from sister Sharee Bird and she was incredible! She shared this quote by President Monson, something along the lines of "When we are faced with trials, reamin steadfast and of a good cheer, making Christ always the center of our lives, and we will be able to overcome anything that comes our way". As Jesus Christ teaches: "In the world you shall have tribulation. But be of good cheer. For I have overcome the world. The only lasting joy and happiness will come through our savior Jesus Christ. For it is eternal happiness that lasts.
I know that heavenly father has great things in store for all of his children. If we let him guide us miracles will happen, and good things will be here to come. I know that Jesus is the Christ and that he atoned for our sins, and has been where we have been and below. "For he descended below all things". I love the scriptures, and know they can speak directly to us and help us with any challenge we are faced with. They truly testify of our Savior Jesus Christ.
As it reads in D&C 68:6 "Wherefore, be of good cheer, and do not fear, for I the Lord am with you, and will stand by you; and ye shall bear record of me, even Jesus Christ, that I am the Son of the living God, that I was, That I am, and that I am to come".
Thankyou all for your wonderful love and support!!! I love you all and am praying for you!!
Love,
Siostra Forsey
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
MTC--Week 1
Dien Dobry Family & Friends! Ι arrived at the MTC last week on Wednesday, and have now almost officially been here an entire week!! It's crazy :) There are six of us in the district going to Poland - 2 sisters & 4 elders! My companion is Sister Sheahan, from Montana and she is awesome!! We have a blast together and have had some good laughs! There is Elder Van Bakel from Holland, Elder Hayes from Wales, Elder Dopp from Idaho, and Elder Walter from California. We all have had an incredible experience so far, and have learned so much. I feel like we have been here way longer then just a week, and look forward to the 8 weeks ahead of us! On Thursday night we met with our Branch President, President Gray and President Miller...and we are also in the branch with the people that are going to Bulgaria and Las Vegas. We have kind of a trio companionship, with Sister Tate who is going to Bulgaria since she is solo. So it has been a lot of fun! :)
On Sunday night we had a fireside in the remembrance of 9/11, and it was very inspiring. We watched a video recaping the event and watched people share their stories and how it affected them. I really like What President Brown (The Mission President of the MTC) said. He said: The only antidote to terrorism is the gospel of Jesus Christ. The gospel of Peace. I truly believe that the gospel of Jesus Christ unites us and blesses our lives. It is the only way that we can return to our heavenly father. THROUGH JESUS CHRIST WE CANNOT FAIL. His atonement was for each and every one of us, and we have the choice to use it, and be cleansed of our sins, afflictions, and trials in this life.
Now onto the learning aspect of the MTC :) We have been studying Polish for about seven-eight hours a day, so it gets pretty intense! It is a lot to take in, but I know that the Lord will bless us as we focus on our purpose. And that is bringing people unto the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. It is for them and not us. They have this computer program that we use about an hour a day called: TALL and it helps you be able to learn vocabulary and phrases, and know how to pronounce stuff instead of guessing haha. So it has been really helpful! We have taught two lessons in Polish already, to an investigator that is Polish so it has been preparing us!
Let see....We also joined the choir they have at the MTC and it is huge! needless to say :) haha. with all the missionaries, but it is awesome! And like everyone says, the chocolate milk here is AMAZING. ha.
But I love all of you guys, and know that we can be happy in this life if we strive to live righteously and come unto Christ. There is no greater joy, and happiness that lasts then this. I promise you! The atonement is real, and I know that heavenly father loves each and every one of us, and has a divine plan for everyone on this earth. If we put our lives in the Lords hands, he will make the most of it, and we will recieve more joy and peace and happiness in this life then we imagined possilbe!!
I love you guys!,
Siostra Forsey!
On Sunday night we had a fireside in the remembrance of 9/11, and it was very inspiring. We watched a video recaping the event and watched people share their stories and how it affected them. I really like What President Brown (The Mission President of the MTC) said. He said: The only antidote to terrorism is the gospel of Jesus Christ. The gospel of Peace. I truly believe that the gospel of Jesus Christ unites us and blesses our lives. It is the only way that we can return to our heavenly father. THROUGH JESUS CHRIST WE CANNOT FAIL. His atonement was for each and every one of us, and we have the choice to use it, and be cleansed of our sins, afflictions, and trials in this life.
Now onto the learning aspect of the MTC :) We have been studying Polish for about seven-eight hours a day, so it gets pretty intense! It is a lot to take in, but I know that the Lord will bless us as we focus on our purpose. And that is bringing people unto the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. It is for them and not us. They have this computer program that we use about an hour a day called: TALL and it helps you be able to learn vocabulary and phrases, and know how to pronounce stuff instead of guessing haha. So it has been really helpful! We have taught two lessons in Polish already, to an investigator that is Polish so it has been preparing us!
Let see....We also joined the choir they have at the MTC and it is huge! needless to say :) haha. with all the missionaries, but it is awesome! And like everyone says, the chocolate milk here is AMAZING. ha.
But I love all of you guys, and know that we can be happy in this life if we strive to live righteously and come unto Christ. There is no greater joy, and happiness that lasts then this. I promise you! The atonement is real, and I know that heavenly father loves each and every one of us, and has a divine plan for everyone on this earth. If we put our lives in the Lords hands, he will make the most of it, and we will recieve more joy and peace and happiness in this life then we imagined possilbe!!
I love you guys!,
Siostra Forsey!
Friday, September 9, 2011
Safe and Sound
Hello! This is Megan, Melissa's sister. Just wanted to let you guys know that Melissa was dropped off at the MTC safe and sound, with a huge smile on her face! She will be there until November 8th. I will post pictures of that morning later on! As you know, she will be a fantastic missionary! :)
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