Familia!
It was so great to see you all! If I'm not wrong I believe that there were 22 of us on the Christmas call...crazy stuff. Our family is HUGE! Its going to be awesome when we all move down here to Arizona in the next couple of years.... :)
This week has been awesome.Its been a huge blessing serving in Tempe twice on my mission. Some days we will just be driving down random streets and I will have flash backs to last year at this time when I was serving here. I honestly love this place. There truly are no weirder people in the world haha. Sometimes you just have to laugh at the things that you see here in Tempe.
We've been working on a couple projects for our online proselyting. Especially working in the University wards it has been a huge blessing to stay in touch with our investigators over the Christmas break. I think one of the hardest/most beneficial things that I have seen throughout my mission is becoming one with the members. As you truly invest into the members, not only do you have the chance to help them, but you have the chance to help all of those around them.
Especially with just barely switching wards again plus Christmas break it has been pretty difficult to get to know the members very well, but Elder Oscarson and I had some sweet ideas on how they good get to know us. This week we should have some videos coming out on facebook, kinda like Mormon.org profiles, but better of course. Well, hopefully. We'll see how they turn out but I'm pretty excited for them.
We had some awesome lessons with our investigators this week. Last week we started teaching an investigator named Jasmine. She is a super devout Christian and it has been awesome as we have both taught and learned from her. I honestly don't think I have ever taught anyone like her. She questions everything! Which is good, but it has made for some interesting lessons. This last week she committed herself to read the entire Book of Mormon by the end of winter break and she is already a good portion through it. Yesterday was her first time coming to church, and after we met for a little bit to have a lesson. After the lesson she told us that she felt like she was having a change of heart, she never before thought that she would ever become a member of the church, but now it has become a serious thought.
The power of the Book of Mormon never ceases to amaze me. From such a short book, we can find the answer to every questions we face in life, we can receive guidance and direction, our hearts can be softened, and we can grow closer to our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. I have such a testimony of it and its truthfulness. Yesterday we had every missionary's worst nightmare for Gospel Principles. Lesson 47: Exaltation. Even better, the wards were combined, and the teacher this week was the one who taught the Spirit World a few weeks ago, and began the Gospel Principles class singing, If You Could Hie to Kolob. Knowing that we had a couple investigators in class Elder Oscarson and I looked at each other and both offered a silent prayer. Turns out the lesson was much better than expected.
At first it was a little rough, everyone was throwing around questions left and right and people were putting in what "they thought" was true, you know just the usual, and then our Recent Convert Gabe raised his hand. We weren't sure what Gabe was going to do, but then he just started teaching with such simplicity and power that all the questions stopped. He talked about what our Heavenly Father's plan meant for him, testified of what he knew to be true, and the spirit flooded the room.
I find that sometimes we like to make things more difficult than they need to be, when in fact the Gospel is simple. Its true, in this life we do not know everything, but we can know many things. True testimony is built off of a foundation of simple truths, which over time grows to be something magnificent. I find that when things get confusing or we just don't know the answers to everything, the most important thing we can do is turn to those simple truths that we do know. I'm thankful for Gabe and the example that he is to me. It truly is such a blessing to be able to serve around such amazing people. I hope you're all doing well! I love you all!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Monday, December 30, 2013
Monday, December 23, 2013
Week 70: Its Christmas!!!
Familia!
I can't believe that it is Christmas already... looking back it seems like FOREVER ago that we were able to skype, but then again time has flown. I'm excited to be able to talk to you all soon :)
Man, I have no clue where to start. I didn't have hardly any time last week to email, and there are so many things that have happened these past couple weeks. Lets see... Oh, I saw Jay-Z! (Mom, you can ask Dad who that is. He may probably wont know, but there is a better chance at him knowing than you :) haha) Elder Oscarson and I had to run to the airport to pick Sister Toone up and as we were sitting there waiting this giant van pulled up right in front of us followed by one of the nicest cars that I have seen. Then three huge black guys walk out, search the van, search the car, and then walk back into the airport. Then within like 5 seconds, five other black guys walk out of the airport with a fly looking guy in the middle, they get the fly guy in the car, jump in the van, and then they are gone.... So, I really don't know if it was Jay-Z, but it looked like him, so we are just going to go with it. That was the first of about 4 times going to the airport these last two weeks.... Man, do I love the airport :/
Two weeks ago we started our Zone Conferences as well. I think training is one of my favorite things to do. As President Toone, Elder Oscarson, and I sat trying to figure out what we were going to do for the Zone Conference our thoughts kept being directed towards the topics of Vision and Sustaining. We talked about several different ideas that we had and we were all a little confused as to how we could make those topics fit into what our desired outcome, and so we tried changing it, but each and every time we knelt down the only things that came to mind were Vision and Sustaining. About an hour before we needed to leave to Yuma, Elder Oscarson and I hadn't had any time to plan a training, and so we headed to the office to get things figured out. We knew what we were supposed to do, but we didn't know how to do it. As we sat there praying and thinking about how we could motivate and inspire the mission the image of the sun came to the mind. When we think of the sun, we think of the warmth, heat, and life that it brings to the earth. The suns is absolutely necessary. But never once to we think of the things that take place to bring to pass the end result. To bring warmth, life, and heat to the world, the Sun does some key reactions combining Hydrogen molecules to create Helium. We see the end result every second of our lives, but we never get caught up on the reactions that must take place. I find so many times in our lives we get caught up on the little things and miss the opportunity to catch a glimpse at the bigger picture of what we are doing. As missionaries, sometimes we get caught up on the every day "tasks" that we know we need to be doing and we don't raise our eyes to see the result, to understand the vision that our Father in Heaven has for this great work. I know that there is power in seeing the greater picture. It motivates us, it inspires us, and it gives us a direction to move forward. As we focus on the little tasks, the essential reactions, things become meaningless and we become frustrated. As we raise our eyes to see the bigger picture, miracles are brought to pass.
So, with pretty much all of two weeks ago being taken up by Zone Conferences, I thought that this last week would be a little more relaxed, which it was, but still crazy. We started off the week with our Mission Christmas Conference. We had all the missionaries come together and we spent all of Monday together. We had a Doctor come to talk to us about Christ as our Healer, we had the Temple president come talk to us about Making covenants with Christ, and then we ended the night with a talent show.
In the middle of the talent show we had a guest appearance from someone you'll never guess....Santa haha. He came in and started reading off a naughty and nice list and gave some reasons why for each. Then he called Elder Oscarson and I up. Obviously we were on the nice list haha but then he gave us a package of Oscarmeyer hot dogs as our gift. He thought he was pretty funny because if you take Oscarson and Jurgensmeier and combine them, thats what you get, Oscarmeier haha. So that was fun to be able to spend all day with the mission.
Then on Wednesday some representatives from Salt Lake came down to spend time with President Toone. After a mission president has been in his position for about 6 months they always send some people from Salt Lake to do some training. For part of their training they wanted to go out Proselyting with Elder Oscarson and I. So, Wednesday night Elder Oscarson and I went out proselyting with Lee Donaldson. He is one of the head of proselyting in the world...pretty cool.
Luckily our investigators are AWESOME. We had a super good night and were able to teach an awesome new investigator we got who's name is Eric. Eric is one of Gabe's best friends (Gabe was baptized two weeks ago) and Gabe has been talking to him about the church. Eric came to Gabe's baptism, and then a few days later one of Eric's other good friends was baptized, so he though "hmm, maybe I better check this out." Eric has had some of the most amazing stories in his life. He has been guided and directed by God his entire life and as we met with him and as he came to church yesterday he told us, "I think that my journey has come to an end."
I love working with the YSA wards. Everyone always has trials that they are facing, but it seems like the people we have been teaching seem to have things pretty figured out in their lives and they are just honest searchers of truth. And it is amazing to see as they come to know of the Restored Gospel how eager they are to share it with everyone that they know. I love this work. There is no better time of year than now to be out serving a mission. I love my Savior Jesus Christ and am thankful for this season when everyone in the world turns unto him. I can't wait to talk to you all!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
I can't believe that it is Christmas already... looking back it seems like FOREVER ago that we were able to skype, but then again time has flown. I'm excited to be able to talk to you all soon :)
Man, I have no clue where to start. I didn't have hardly any time last week to email, and there are so many things that have happened these past couple weeks. Lets see... Oh, I saw Jay-Z! (Mom, you can ask Dad who that is. He may probably wont know, but there is a better chance at him knowing than you :) haha) Elder Oscarson and I had to run to the airport to pick Sister Toone up and as we were sitting there waiting this giant van pulled up right in front of us followed by one of the nicest cars that I have seen. Then three huge black guys walk out, search the van, search the car, and then walk back into the airport. Then within like 5 seconds, five other black guys walk out of the airport with a fly looking guy in the middle, they get the fly guy in the car, jump in the van, and then they are gone.... So, I really don't know if it was Jay-Z, but it looked like him, so we are just going to go with it. That was the first of about 4 times going to the airport these last two weeks.... Man, do I love the airport :/
Two weeks ago we started our Zone Conferences as well. I think training is one of my favorite things to do. As President Toone, Elder Oscarson, and I sat trying to figure out what we were going to do for the Zone Conference our thoughts kept being directed towards the topics of Vision and Sustaining. We talked about several different ideas that we had and we were all a little confused as to how we could make those topics fit into what our desired outcome, and so we tried changing it, but each and every time we knelt down the only things that came to mind were Vision and Sustaining. About an hour before we needed to leave to Yuma, Elder Oscarson and I hadn't had any time to plan a training, and so we headed to the office to get things figured out. We knew what we were supposed to do, but we didn't know how to do it. As we sat there praying and thinking about how we could motivate and inspire the mission the image of the sun came to the mind. When we think of the sun, we think of the warmth, heat, and life that it brings to the earth. The suns is absolutely necessary. But never once to we think of the things that take place to bring to pass the end result. To bring warmth, life, and heat to the world, the Sun does some key reactions combining Hydrogen molecules to create Helium. We see the end result every second of our lives, but we never get caught up on the reactions that must take place. I find so many times in our lives we get caught up on the little things and miss the opportunity to catch a glimpse at the bigger picture of what we are doing. As missionaries, sometimes we get caught up on the every day "tasks" that we know we need to be doing and we don't raise our eyes to see the result, to understand the vision that our Father in Heaven has for this great work. I know that there is power in seeing the greater picture. It motivates us, it inspires us, and it gives us a direction to move forward. As we focus on the little tasks, the essential reactions, things become meaningless and we become frustrated. As we raise our eyes to see the bigger picture, miracles are brought to pass.
So, with pretty much all of two weeks ago being taken up by Zone Conferences, I thought that this last week would be a little more relaxed, which it was, but still crazy. We started off the week with our Mission Christmas Conference. We had all the missionaries come together and we spent all of Monday together. We had a Doctor come to talk to us about Christ as our Healer, we had the Temple president come talk to us about Making covenants with Christ, and then we ended the night with a talent show.
In the middle of the talent show we had a guest appearance from someone you'll never guess....Santa haha. He came in and started reading off a naughty and nice list and gave some reasons why for each. Then he called Elder Oscarson and I up. Obviously we were on the nice list haha but then he gave us a package of Oscarmeyer hot dogs as our gift. He thought he was pretty funny because if you take Oscarson and Jurgensmeier and combine them, thats what you get, Oscarmeier haha. So that was fun to be able to spend all day with the mission.
Then on Wednesday some representatives from Salt Lake came down to spend time with President Toone. After a mission president has been in his position for about 6 months they always send some people from Salt Lake to do some training. For part of their training they wanted to go out Proselyting with Elder Oscarson and I. So, Wednesday night Elder Oscarson and I went out proselyting with Lee Donaldson. He is one of the head of proselyting in the world...pretty cool.
Luckily our investigators are AWESOME. We had a super good night and were able to teach an awesome new investigator we got who's name is Eric. Eric is one of Gabe's best friends (Gabe was baptized two weeks ago) and Gabe has been talking to him about the church. Eric came to Gabe's baptism, and then a few days later one of Eric's other good friends was baptized, so he though "hmm, maybe I better check this out." Eric has had some of the most amazing stories in his life. He has been guided and directed by God his entire life and as we met with him and as he came to church yesterday he told us, "I think that my journey has come to an end."
I love working with the YSA wards. Everyone always has trials that they are facing, but it seems like the people we have been teaching seem to have things pretty figured out in their lives and they are just honest searchers of truth. And it is amazing to see as they come to know of the Restored Gospel how eager they are to share it with everyone that they know. I love this work. There is no better time of year than now to be out serving a mission. I love my Savior Jesus Christ and am thankful for this season when everyone in the world turns unto him. I can't wait to talk to you all!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Monday, December 9, 2013
Week 68: Changes Bring Miracles
Familia!!
Time just doesn't slow down does it... Especially during transfer week. Monday night on transfer week we spend with all of the missionaries who are heading home. We have a dinner and a devotional/testimony meeting. They are always super powerful. Then, early Tuesday morning we take the departing missionaries to the airport and pick up the new incoming missionaries. Each and every time is a new experience. Its always amazing to be able to see missionaries heading home and how devoted and converted they have become to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Then, just a couple of hours later see 20 nervous but excited brand new missionaries walk out of the terminal. On one side you have missionaries who have witnessed miracles, truly seen the hand of Christ in so many different people's lives. Then on the other hand, these brand new missionaries are scared, nervous of what is ahead, but determined to change lives. It truly motivates me and allows me to reflect on how I can become a better missionary, a disciple of our Savior Jesus Christ.
This week as well, Elder Oscarson and I were transferred from the University YSA ward to the Town Lake YSA ward. The assistants have always served in the Town Lake Ward, but since we had four assistants last transfer, Elder Oscarson and I were in the University ward for a while. Its was tough to leave behind the University ward. There are a lot of amazing people and I am thankful for the time that I was able to spend there.
Town Lake on the other hand is AMAZING! By far the best functioning ward that I have ever been to. We have over 40 ward missionaries who are all super missionary minded. This week we had 3 baptisms in the ward and we are planning on making that a common thing. ASU is such a prime area for missionary work. There are so many members, but yet there are so many people who are searching for truths. One of those baptisms this week was Gabe.
Elder Oscarson and I have been teaching Gabe for about 6 weeks now, and he was planning on getting baptized in the University ward where we were at, but then we found out that he lived a block out of the ward boundary. A few days before, we found out that we were actually switching to the Town Lake ward, which is where Gabe lived... Coincidence? Nope haha. Gabe is a stud. It was awesome to see his progression. He truly is one of the most prepared people that I know. Gabe was surrounded by members growing up and just saw a difference in them. So, on his own he picked up the Book of Mormon and started reading it. Then he decided to tell his friends he was going to church with them. He went a couple of times and then he called the salt lake headquarters and said I want missionaries to come teach me. He said that he just felt a drive to move forward and keep learning, and as he started learning more he needed more and more.
The past couple lessons that we have taught Gabe, some way or another he has brought up serving a mission. The very first lesson that we were teaching him that he brought up a mission we were teaching about something completely unrelated and he said, "Man, I thought that you were going to ask me to serve a mission." Something completely unrelated, but something the spirit whispered to him. Then, in the next couple lessons he brought up serving a mission again. Sunday before his baptism he said, "10% of the reason that I want to serve a mission is because I just want to wear a suit all of the time, then 90% obviously because I want to share the Gospel." Gabe would make an amazing missionary and I hope that we can help him get to that point.
Gabe's baptism was amazing. There were over 200 people that came and Gabe invited about 20 non members. It was a super powerful experience. During the baptism, Gabe had a chance to share his testimony. It was awesome to see as he bore sincere testimony to all of his family and friends of the things that he had come to know.
Experiences like these are experiences that I will forever be thankful for. This next week is looking like a pretty crazy one. We have Zone conferences all over the mission, but it should make for a good time. I love you all, Hope you are all doing well!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Time just doesn't slow down does it... Especially during transfer week. Monday night on transfer week we spend with all of the missionaries who are heading home. We have a dinner and a devotional/testimony meeting. They are always super powerful. Then, early Tuesday morning we take the departing missionaries to the airport and pick up the new incoming missionaries. Each and every time is a new experience. Its always amazing to be able to see missionaries heading home and how devoted and converted they have become to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Then, just a couple of hours later see 20 nervous but excited brand new missionaries walk out of the terminal. On one side you have missionaries who have witnessed miracles, truly seen the hand of Christ in so many different people's lives. Then on the other hand, these brand new missionaries are scared, nervous of what is ahead, but determined to change lives. It truly motivates me and allows me to reflect on how I can become a better missionary, a disciple of our Savior Jesus Christ.
This week as well, Elder Oscarson and I were transferred from the University YSA ward to the Town Lake YSA ward. The assistants have always served in the Town Lake Ward, but since we had four assistants last transfer, Elder Oscarson and I were in the University ward for a while. Its was tough to leave behind the University ward. There are a lot of amazing people and I am thankful for the time that I was able to spend there.
Town Lake on the other hand is AMAZING! By far the best functioning ward that I have ever been to. We have over 40 ward missionaries who are all super missionary minded. This week we had 3 baptisms in the ward and we are planning on making that a common thing. ASU is such a prime area for missionary work. There are so many members, but yet there are so many people who are searching for truths. One of those baptisms this week was Gabe.
Elder Oscarson and I have been teaching Gabe for about 6 weeks now, and he was planning on getting baptized in the University ward where we were at, but then we found out that he lived a block out of the ward boundary. A few days before, we found out that we were actually switching to the Town Lake ward, which is where Gabe lived... Coincidence? Nope haha. Gabe is a stud. It was awesome to see his progression. He truly is one of the most prepared people that I know. Gabe was surrounded by members growing up and just saw a difference in them. So, on his own he picked up the Book of Mormon and started reading it. Then he decided to tell his friends he was going to church with them. He went a couple of times and then he called the salt lake headquarters and said I want missionaries to come teach me. He said that he just felt a drive to move forward and keep learning, and as he started learning more he needed more and more.
The past couple lessons that we have taught Gabe, some way or another he has brought up serving a mission. The very first lesson that we were teaching him that he brought up a mission we were teaching about something completely unrelated and he said, "Man, I thought that you were going to ask me to serve a mission." Something completely unrelated, but something the spirit whispered to him. Then, in the next couple lessons he brought up serving a mission again. Sunday before his baptism he said, "10% of the reason that I want to serve a mission is because I just want to wear a suit all of the time, then 90% obviously because I want to share the Gospel." Gabe would make an amazing missionary and I hope that we can help him get to that point.
Gabe's baptism was amazing. There were over 200 people that came and Gabe invited about 20 non members. It was a super powerful experience. During the baptism, Gabe had a chance to share his testimony. It was awesome to see as he bore sincere testimony to all of his family and friends of the things that he had come to know.
Experiences like these are experiences that I will forever be thankful for. This next week is looking like a pretty crazy one. We have Zone conferences all over the mission, but it should make for a good time. I love you all, Hope you are all doing well!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Monday, December 2, 2013
Week 67: Thanksgiving
Familia!
This week was AWESOME! One of the most spirit filled weeks that I have ever had.
With transfers coming up this Wednesday, beginning of last week we had to get started on the transfer board. I think that is one of the coolest experiences. It is amazing to be able to sit down not having any idea how things are going to work out and then all of a sudden its done. Everyone is exactly where they need to be and with exactly who they need to be with. I know that Our Father leads and guides that process. As we were closing up with a prayer, making sure that we had done exactly what needed to be done, President Toone mentioned in his prayer, "We thank thee for the opportunity to be an extension of thy hands, to move and place these missionaries where thou would move and place them." As I thought about this great work, I thought about how true that statement is and how it can apply to all aspects of our lives. Its interesting to think that for Our Father's great work, He needs us, He uses us. I know that there are ways that each of us help His work progress on a daily basis, and how great of a privileged that is.
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday were some of the most amazing days. Friday we met with one of our investigators named Daniel. Daniel was meeting with the missionaries for quite a while, and then they transferred him over to us since he was in the YSA age group. We tried teaching Daniel a couple of times at his place, but there were always so many different things going on at his house it was nearly impossible.
So, for the first time on Friday we met at the institute building on campus. At first we walked around the building, showing him the different class rooms and the different things that went on. Then, to end we wanted to spend some time in the chapel. So, we go in the chapel and as the door shuts behind us it was one of those moments when you can literally feel the spirit engulf the room. As we started to talk about sacrament meeting and the things that go on, Daniel said, "I'm not going to lie guys, I feel a little weird right now. I've never felt this way before." So, as discussed a little more what he was feeling, we identified it as the spirit. He said it was a peaceful joy mixed with a little bit of nerves because he knew that he needed to make some changes in his life. As we talked more about the spirit and the great gift that it is in our lives, Daniel started to become emotional. Now Daniel is a 6' 6" 350lbs bear, Daniel doesn't get emotional. But as tears started to feel Daniels eyes, he said that he knew that this was something that he needed. We extended a date for Daniel to be baptized the 21st of this month and he accepted.
To end the lesson, we asked Daniel to give the closing prayer. He was a little hesitant and asked for one of us to do it. I looked at Daniel and I said, "Daniel, right now is an opportunity that you have to solidify this decision that you have just made. I promise you that as we kneel down together, and as you offer this prayer, you will feel the confirmation from our Heavenly Father that this is something you should do." I promised Daniel that as he said the prayer and truly poured his heart out in it, our Heavenly Father would make sure that everything would take place that needed to take place for his baptism. As we knelt down together, Daniel offered the prayer. It was one of the most humble heart felt prayers that I have ever heard. As he ended the prayer, he leaned over so that he was on all fours and sat there for a while just crying. It is such an amazing experience to be a part of someones conversion. In that moment, Daniel put everything on the line, was willing to do absolutely whatever our Father in Heaven asked him to do, and as he did so, he experienced a change of heart. I know that the spirit can work with each and every one of us in the same manner. As we open ourselves up to our Father, willing to be mailable, the Spirit will testify to each and every one of us the things that we can do to further our conversion.
Then Saturday and Sunday we were able to witness two of the most amazing baptisms that I have ever seen. The first was Shuning. Shuning came to ASU to go to school and is about to graduate this month. A couple of weeks ago, Shuning found the missionaries and knew that he needed to join. Shuning is going back to China next month and already has plans to start sharing the Gospel with everyone when he gets back.
Then we were able to have the baptism of Kealani, an investigator that we have been working with for quite some time. Her baptism was right after church and we had an amazing turn out. There were over 100 people that were there to support her on such an important day in her life.
I am so thankful to be serving where I am serving. I know that miracles happen daily. I know that our Father in Heaven knows each and every one of us personally, and what great comfort that knowledge gives me. I love each of you. I'm thankful for all of you and the amazing examples that you are in my life!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
This week was AWESOME! One of the most spirit filled weeks that I have ever had.
With transfers coming up this Wednesday, beginning of last week we had to get started on the transfer board. I think that is one of the coolest experiences. It is amazing to be able to sit down not having any idea how things are going to work out and then all of a sudden its done. Everyone is exactly where they need to be and with exactly who they need to be with. I know that Our Father leads and guides that process. As we were closing up with a prayer, making sure that we had done exactly what needed to be done, President Toone mentioned in his prayer, "We thank thee for the opportunity to be an extension of thy hands, to move and place these missionaries where thou would move and place them." As I thought about this great work, I thought about how true that statement is and how it can apply to all aspects of our lives. Its interesting to think that for Our Father's great work, He needs us, He uses us. I know that there are ways that each of us help His work progress on a daily basis, and how great of a privileged that is.
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday were some of the most amazing days. Friday we met with one of our investigators named Daniel. Daniel was meeting with the missionaries for quite a while, and then they transferred him over to us since he was in the YSA age group. We tried teaching Daniel a couple of times at his place, but there were always so many different things going on at his house it was nearly impossible.
So, for the first time on Friday we met at the institute building on campus. At first we walked around the building, showing him the different class rooms and the different things that went on. Then, to end we wanted to spend some time in the chapel. So, we go in the chapel and as the door shuts behind us it was one of those moments when you can literally feel the spirit engulf the room. As we started to talk about sacrament meeting and the things that go on, Daniel said, "I'm not going to lie guys, I feel a little weird right now. I've never felt this way before." So, as discussed a little more what he was feeling, we identified it as the spirit. He said it was a peaceful joy mixed with a little bit of nerves because he knew that he needed to make some changes in his life. As we talked more about the spirit and the great gift that it is in our lives, Daniel started to become emotional. Now Daniel is a 6' 6" 350lbs bear, Daniel doesn't get emotional. But as tears started to feel Daniels eyes, he said that he knew that this was something that he needed. We extended a date for Daniel to be baptized the 21st of this month and he accepted.
To end the lesson, we asked Daniel to give the closing prayer. He was a little hesitant and asked for one of us to do it. I looked at Daniel and I said, "Daniel, right now is an opportunity that you have to solidify this decision that you have just made. I promise you that as we kneel down together, and as you offer this prayer, you will feel the confirmation from our Heavenly Father that this is something you should do." I promised Daniel that as he said the prayer and truly poured his heart out in it, our Heavenly Father would make sure that everything would take place that needed to take place for his baptism. As we knelt down together, Daniel offered the prayer. It was one of the most humble heart felt prayers that I have ever heard. As he ended the prayer, he leaned over so that he was on all fours and sat there for a while just crying. It is such an amazing experience to be a part of someones conversion. In that moment, Daniel put everything on the line, was willing to do absolutely whatever our Father in Heaven asked him to do, and as he did so, he experienced a change of heart. I know that the spirit can work with each and every one of us in the same manner. As we open ourselves up to our Father, willing to be mailable, the Spirit will testify to each and every one of us the things that we can do to further our conversion.
Then Saturday and Sunday we were able to witness two of the most amazing baptisms that I have ever seen. The first was Shuning. Shuning came to ASU to go to school and is about to graduate this month. A couple of weeks ago, Shuning found the missionaries and knew that he needed to join. Shuning is going back to China next month and already has plans to start sharing the Gospel with everyone when he gets back.
Then we were able to have the baptism of Kealani, an investigator that we have been working with for quite some time. Her baptism was right after church and we had an amazing turn out. There were over 100 people that were there to support her on such an important day in her life.
I am so thankful to be serving where I am serving. I know that miracles happen daily. I know that our Father in Heaven knows each and every one of us personally, and what great comfort that knowledge gives me. I love each of you. I'm thankful for all of you and the amazing examples that you are in my life!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Week 66: Skype Lessons!
Familia!
Skype lessons are Awesome! A little bit different....well, a lot different, but awesome! Early this week we were able to have a Skype lesson with one of Elder Oscarson's friends from High School and then yesterday we were able to have a lesson with Dalt and Eddy. Its pretty exciting when you are able to talk to one of your best friends about something so important to you with your other best friend sitting right beside him testifying about the importance of this message when I'm hundreds of miles away. I'm definitely thankful for opportunities like these.
This week we had a researcher from Salt Lake come down and interview quite a bit of missionaries about how the iPad use is going. Successes, downfalls, all sorts of different things. Elder Oscarson and I were able to spend quite a bit of time with him and he was able to sit in on one of our online lessons that we had. Everything is still in its beginning phases, so there are quite a few little bugs that they are working out, but it has still been amazing.
The work is truly hastening. Today we decided to see how we were comparing to the mission statistics from a year ago, and looking back we are teaching around 500 more lessons a week as a mission. What is even more amazing to think about is on July 1st, the size of our mission was cut in half. So, with less areas and less missionaries, the work is still hastening. As the Lord promised, "I will hasten my work in its time," I know that that time is right now.
Our investigators are still doing great. This week we were able to find a couple more that have a ton of interest in learning. One of the investigators that we have been meeting with the most lately is Kealani. She is preparing for baptism this weekend. One of my favorite things about working in a YSA ward is the members. From day one Kealani was engulfed with welcoming hands. Members truly are key to this great work. As members share the Gospel first through word and then through action, miracles truly do happen.
This week Elder Oscarson and I were asked to speak in Sacrament meeting. We were given the subject "Missionary Work." Pretty fitting I guess haha. I know with out a doubt of my mind that this is Our Father's work, and He leads it through His Spirit. Lately it seems like all of my studies have turned one way or another to following the guidance from the Spirit. As I was thinking about what I could share in my talk I was able to contemplate about all the amazing experiences that I have had as I have fully relied on Heaven, or the guidance from the Holy Ghost. I think Nephi sums it up best as he is going to get the plates from Laban and says, "And I was led by the Spirit, not knowing beforehand the things which I should do. Nevertheless I went forth." Miracles happen as we lean not to our own understanding, but take steps confidently where the spirit guides us. I have seen it throughout my mission, and in one way or another it becomes a daily experience.
I am so thankful for the guidance of the Holy Ghost. It truly is a comfort to know that a part of the Godhead can be with us, constantly. I know that our Father's plan for us is perfect, and when we feel like we have no idea what is going on, those are the times when we truly do not have to fear. Our father is taking care of us, and as we follow the guidance and subtle promptings from the Holy Ghost, we will become exactly who we need to be and do exactly what needs to be done.
Hope all is well!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Skype lessons are Awesome! A little bit different....well, a lot different, but awesome! Early this week we were able to have a Skype lesson with one of Elder Oscarson's friends from High School and then yesterday we were able to have a lesson with Dalt and Eddy. Its pretty exciting when you are able to talk to one of your best friends about something so important to you with your other best friend sitting right beside him testifying about the importance of this message when I'm hundreds of miles away. I'm definitely thankful for opportunities like these.
This week we had a researcher from Salt Lake come down and interview quite a bit of missionaries about how the iPad use is going. Successes, downfalls, all sorts of different things. Elder Oscarson and I were able to spend quite a bit of time with him and he was able to sit in on one of our online lessons that we had. Everything is still in its beginning phases, so there are quite a few little bugs that they are working out, but it has still been amazing.
The work is truly hastening. Today we decided to see how we were comparing to the mission statistics from a year ago, and looking back we are teaching around 500 more lessons a week as a mission. What is even more amazing to think about is on July 1st, the size of our mission was cut in half. So, with less areas and less missionaries, the work is still hastening. As the Lord promised, "I will hasten my work in its time," I know that that time is right now.
Our investigators are still doing great. This week we were able to find a couple more that have a ton of interest in learning. One of the investigators that we have been meeting with the most lately is Kealani. She is preparing for baptism this weekend. One of my favorite things about working in a YSA ward is the members. From day one Kealani was engulfed with welcoming hands. Members truly are key to this great work. As members share the Gospel first through word and then through action, miracles truly do happen.
This week Elder Oscarson and I were asked to speak in Sacrament meeting. We were given the subject "Missionary Work." Pretty fitting I guess haha. I know with out a doubt of my mind that this is Our Father's work, and He leads it through His Spirit. Lately it seems like all of my studies have turned one way or another to following the guidance from the Spirit. As I was thinking about what I could share in my talk I was able to contemplate about all the amazing experiences that I have had as I have fully relied on Heaven, or the guidance from the Holy Ghost. I think Nephi sums it up best as he is going to get the plates from Laban and says, "And I was led by the Spirit, not knowing beforehand the things which I should do. Nevertheless I went forth." Miracles happen as we lean not to our own understanding, but take steps confidently where the spirit guides us. I have seen it throughout my mission, and in one way or another it becomes a daily experience.
I am so thankful for the guidance of the Holy Ghost. It truly is a comfort to know that a part of the Godhead can be with us, constantly. I know that our Father's plan for us is perfect, and when we feel like we have no idea what is going on, those are the times when we truly do not have to fear. Our father is taking care of us, and as we follow the guidance and subtle promptings from the Holy Ghost, we will become exactly who we need to be and do exactly what needs to be done.
Hope all is well!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Week 65: Cowboys and Angels
Familia!
What a week, man time is flying. I can't believe that Dalt is home...crazy stuff. Elder Oscarson and I usually try to go on about two exchanges per week, and this week we got to go to COOLIDGE! Man, I love that place. Coolidge will always be my second favorite area, right after the area that I am currently serving in haha. It was awesome to be able to go back and remember all of the miracles that I was able to see there. The miracles that happened in Coolidge truly were a direct result from the members getting involved in the Work of Salvation. As I was there we were able to visit some members who are still working on the Family Mission Plan that we started about 6 months ago. It was awesome to see as they talked about the many opportunities that they have had. They have even taken a random family who just lost their home and opened up their own home for them to live in. The members in Coolidge truly have lost themselves in our Father's work and it is amazing to see how many families they have brought into the church.
While I was there I was also told about a family that I had taught who had just been baptized. I was able to reflect on a few months earlier when Elder Myler and I had been walking down the street. It was about 8:45 and we were about ready to head home for the night when we decided that we were going to walk down the street to try and talk to a few people. As we got to the end of the street, we were just standing there talking and I said, "That house right there, there is a family that is going to get baptized." Not thinking much more of it, we continued on our walk and headed home for the night. A few days later we were going to eat dinner with a member who lived on that same street. As we pulled into the street, the family who lived in "that house" was standing outside washing their car. We got out of our car and walked up to meet the Salsgiver family. We talked for a few brief moments, and set up a lesson to return. Our first lesson with the Salsgiver family, we found out that the husband was a less active member and that the family had been taking lessons in Utah several years earlier. As we continued to teach them, the husband was hesitant to reactivate, and the family wasn't too sure if they wanted to come to church. However, when we started involving the members, all of that changed. The members completely wrapped their arms around the Salsgiver family and about a month ago the father was able to baptize his wife and three of his children. The thing that I love about this work is the change is literally visible in those who start living the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Not only has this change taken place in the lives of the converts in the Coolidge area, but the members are truly the ones who are benefiting the most. As we become lost in the Work of our Father, we become exactly who we need to be. I hope that some day I have the opportunity to serve in Coolidge again.
Being in Coolidge for a day was great, but then it was also awesome to get back to my own area. The YSA wards on Campus are awesome. This week we had the Cowboys and Angels activity that turned out to be a huge success. Essentially it was a giant country dance haha. There were TONS of non members that came, two of which were legit cowboys. They had come from Kansas on a cow run to pick up some cattle in Arizona. While they were walking through the mall at the beginning of this week, a random person walked up to them and gave them an invitation to the party and said, "Trust me, you two will love this." So, they figured, why not and decided to come. They told us since it was a free party they thought, "Man, we should be nice and at least bring a couple cases of beer." ....luckily they didn't haha. They loved it though. They had never even heard of a Mormon before, but we are going to start teaching them on Facebook back in Kansas and see where it goes.
I love this work. I know that there truly is nothing else that brings more joy than sharing the Gospel. I hope you are all doing well!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
What a week, man time is flying. I can't believe that Dalt is home...crazy stuff. Elder Oscarson and I usually try to go on about two exchanges per week, and this week we got to go to COOLIDGE! Man, I love that place. Coolidge will always be my second favorite area, right after the area that I am currently serving in haha. It was awesome to be able to go back and remember all of the miracles that I was able to see there. The miracles that happened in Coolidge truly were a direct result from the members getting involved in the Work of Salvation. As I was there we were able to visit some members who are still working on the Family Mission Plan that we started about 6 months ago. It was awesome to see as they talked about the many opportunities that they have had. They have even taken a random family who just lost their home and opened up their own home for them to live in. The members in Coolidge truly have lost themselves in our Father's work and it is amazing to see how many families they have brought into the church.
While I was there I was also told about a family that I had taught who had just been baptized. I was able to reflect on a few months earlier when Elder Myler and I had been walking down the street. It was about 8:45 and we were about ready to head home for the night when we decided that we were going to walk down the street to try and talk to a few people. As we got to the end of the street, we were just standing there talking and I said, "That house right there, there is a family that is going to get baptized." Not thinking much more of it, we continued on our walk and headed home for the night. A few days later we were going to eat dinner with a member who lived on that same street. As we pulled into the street, the family who lived in "that house" was standing outside washing their car. We got out of our car and walked up to meet the Salsgiver family. We talked for a few brief moments, and set up a lesson to return. Our first lesson with the Salsgiver family, we found out that the husband was a less active member and that the family had been taking lessons in Utah several years earlier. As we continued to teach them, the husband was hesitant to reactivate, and the family wasn't too sure if they wanted to come to church. However, when we started involving the members, all of that changed. The members completely wrapped their arms around the Salsgiver family and about a month ago the father was able to baptize his wife and three of his children. The thing that I love about this work is the change is literally visible in those who start living the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Not only has this change taken place in the lives of the converts in the Coolidge area, but the members are truly the ones who are benefiting the most. As we become lost in the Work of our Father, we become exactly who we need to be. I hope that some day I have the opportunity to serve in Coolidge again.
Being in Coolidge for a day was great, but then it was also awesome to get back to my own area. The YSA wards on Campus are awesome. This week we had the Cowboys and Angels activity that turned out to be a huge success. Essentially it was a giant country dance haha. There were TONS of non members that came, two of which were legit cowboys. They had come from Kansas on a cow run to pick up some cattle in Arizona. While they were walking through the mall at the beginning of this week, a random person walked up to them and gave them an invitation to the party and said, "Trust me, you two will love this." So, they figured, why not and decided to come. They told us since it was a free party they thought, "Man, we should be nice and at least bring a couple cases of beer." ....luckily they didn't haha. They loved it though. They had never even heard of a Mormon before, but we are going to start teaching them on Facebook back in Kansas and see where it goes.
I love this work. I know that there truly is nothing else that brings more joy than sharing the Gospel. I hope you are all doing well!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Week 64: The Genius Idea
Familia!
Man life is good. That about sums up the week. Lots of awesome experiences and lots of miracles.
With the new online proselyting that we are doing as a mission, Elder Oscarson and I have been trying to figure out ways that we can involve our ward more. Especially serving in a YSA ward, EVERYONE our age has a facebook/twitter/everything else, so we wanted to take advantage of this great tool. This last week we started up an "Online Proselyting Class" to show members what we are doing online as missionaries and how they can do the same. It was awesome to see as members saw the vision of sharing the Gospel online. We helped each of them set specific goals on how they are going to start their own "Online Proselyting Mission." It will be great to see as this spreads to all of the members.
As well, this week I had a GENIUS idea. I was on facebook one day trying to figure out how I could reach out to more people. As I sat there, one of the elders mentioned that his girlfriend joined a group on facebook called, "I'm waiting for my missionary." Hahahaha. Who would've thought that they have groups like these.... anyway, when he said that, a genius idea came to my mind. I thought, "Man, all of these people are super devoted to 'their missionaries' so if I can motivate them to do things for 'their missionaries' things will explode." So, since these groups were private I had to join to post on their walls. So I joined a group of like 2,500 girls and a couple other groups of 300 & 200 and this is what I posted.
"Hey Everyone! I hope that you are all doing well! Right now I’m serving in the Arizona Tempe Mission and yesterday I had an awesome idea. I’m not currently waiting for a missionary, but I do know what it is like to be out on a mission. While your missionary is out serving, nothing would excite/motivate them more than to hear the experiences that you have had sharing the gospel. A couple months ago, my mission became an “online mission.” Now I spend time daily sharing the gospel online. I wanted to join this group so I could help each of you have these amazing experiences to share with your missionaries. If you have any friends that maybe aren’t interested in meeting with missionaries in your area, but have questions, shoot me a message. I can help. As well, if you have any other questions about how you can share the gospel, I’m here for that. I know that sometimes this life gets difficult. We all have trials, it is true. But I know that the Gospel of Jesus Christ can help us feel peace, love, and eternal joy even in the darkest of situations. I have seen this Gospel transform my life, and time and time again I have seen miracles take place in the lives of those whom I have had the opportunity to teach. Experiences to share the gospel surround each of us, so lets witness some miracles :) As well, if you aren’t a member of the church and have questions about what your missionary is teaching, send me a message and I can help!"
Genius no??? Well, I got kicked off of the groups.... pretty lame, but it was a great idea I thought. Just because I'm not waiting for anyone....haha. I have gotten quite a few friend requests though, so I'll have to see if somehow I can get some missionary opportunities through all these girls haha.
Other than that, we have had some awesome lessons with a few of our investigators. First off with Kealani. She decided that she wanted to be baptized the 21st of January. Forever away! However, this week we were able to teach the restoration again. As we taught the Restoration she had a ton of member friends around her baring testimony of how it has blessed their lives. We asked Kealani if she believed that Joseph Smith was a prophet and she replied instantly, "Yes." We extended a baptismal invitation for the 30th of this month and she accepted.
As well this week we met with one of our investigators Gabe. Gabe has struggled lately accepting the fact that Jesus Christ truly can Atone for his sins. He believed that Jesus was the Savior of the world, he just felt like he was excluded from that great sacrifice. We challenged Gabe to read and pray every single day between our appointments. As we met, we asked him how that had been going and he said, "I don't know how to tell you guys. I have been reading every day and praying and for some reason everything has just been easier. I think that I'm ready to be baptized." Can't complain about that comment! So, as well we extended a date for Gabe to be baptized the 23rd of this month and he accepted.
I love this Gospel. I know that it truly does give us the guidance and direction that we need in this life. Just as Kealani and Gabe were able to see, I know that as we put our trust in Jesus Christ, everything will fall into place.
I love you all! Con amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Man life is good. That about sums up the week. Lots of awesome experiences and lots of miracles.
With the new online proselyting that we are doing as a mission, Elder Oscarson and I have been trying to figure out ways that we can involve our ward more. Especially serving in a YSA ward, EVERYONE our age has a facebook/twitter/everything else, so we wanted to take advantage of this great tool. This last week we started up an "Online Proselyting Class" to show members what we are doing online as missionaries and how they can do the same. It was awesome to see as members saw the vision of sharing the Gospel online. We helped each of them set specific goals on how they are going to start their own "Online Proselyting Mission." It will be great to see as this spreads to all of the members.
As well, this week I had a GENIUS idea. I was on facebook one day trying to figure out how I could reach out to more people. As I sat there, one of the elders mentioned that his girlfriend joined a group on facebook called, "I'm waiting for my missionary." Hahahaha. Who would've thought that they have groups like these.... anyway, when he said that, a genius idea came to my mind. I thought, "Man, all of these people are super devoted to 'their missionaries' so if I can motivate them to do things for 'their missionaries' things will explode." So, since these groups were private I had to join to post on their walls. So I joined a group of like 2,500 girls and a couple other groups of 300 & 200 and this is what I posted.
"Hey Everyone! I hope that you are all doing well! Right now I’m serving in the Arizona Tempe Mission and yesterday I had an awesome idea. I’m not currently waiting for a missionary, but I do know what it is like to be out on a mission. While your missionary is out serving, nothing would excite/motivate them more than to hear the experiences that you have had sharing the gospel. A couple months ago, my mission became an “online mission.” Now I spend time daily sharing the gospel online. I wanted to join this group so I could help each of you have these amazing experiences to share with your missionaries. If you have any friends that maybe aren’t interested in meeting with missionaries in your area, but have questions, shoot me a message. I can help. As well, if you have any other questions about how you can share the gospel, I’m here for that. I know that sometimes this life gets difficult. We all have trials, it is true. But I know that the Gospel of Jesus Christ can help us feel peace, love, and eternal joy even in the darkest of situations. I have seen this Gospel transform my life, and time and time again I have seen miracles take place in the lives of those whom I have had the opportunity to teach. Experiences to share the gospel surround each of us, so lets witness some miracles :) As well, if you aren’t a member of the church and have questions about what your missionary is teaching, send me a message and I can help!"
Genius no??? Well, I got kicked off of the groups.... pretty lame, but it was a great idea I thought. Just because I'm not waiting for anyone....haha. I have gotten quite a few friend requests though, so I'll have to see if somehow I can get some missionary opportunities through all these girls haha.
Other than that, we have had some awesome lessons with a few of our investigators. First off with Kealani. She decided that she wanted to be baptized the 21st of January. Forever away! However, this week we were able to teach the restoration again. As we taught the Restoration she had a ton of member friends around her baring testimony of how it has blessed their lives. We asked Kealani if she believed that Joseph Smith was a prophet and she replied instantly, "Yes." We extended a baptismal invitation for the 30th of this month and she accepted.
As well this week we met with one of our investigators Gabe. Gabe has struggled lately accepting the fact that Jesus Christ truly can Atone for his sins. He believed that Jesus was the Savior of the world, he just felt like he was excluded from that great sacrifice. We challenged Gabe to read and pray every single day between our appointments. As we met, we asked him how that had been going and he said, "I don't know how to tell you guys. I have been reading every day and praying and for some reason everything has just been easier. I think that I'm ready to be baptized." Can't complain about that comment! So, as well we extended a date for Gabe to be baptized the 23rd of this month and he accepted.
I love this Gospel. I know that it truly does give us the guidance and direction that we need in this life. Just as Kealani and Gabe were able to see, I know that as we put our trust in Jesus Christ, everything will fall into place.
I love you all! Con amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Week 63: Ipads!
Familia!
iPads. Are. Amazing. I remember when dad first got his iPad he said, "You can quote me on this. One day missionaries all over the world will have these things."....something along those lines. Well Dad, your prophesy came true. It is amazing all of the different things that we can do now. Our planner, area book, and the entire gospel library fit right into our hand. In our lessons now we are able to use videos, and now we can teach over Skype. So, get finding! I want to teach member present lessons with each of you :)
With all of the iPad training that came up, we were pretty busy traveling around the mission getting everyone lined up with their new devices. From Monday to Friday we were traveling the mission to do the training. On Monday we met here in Tempe with the entire Mission Leadership so that they would already be trained as we went to each of their zones to train later in the week. Elder Kleopfer had pneumonia, and so clearly he wasn't feeling too great, so I took him to President and Sister Toone's house so that he could get some rest while his companion was receiving the training. It was awesome to be able to sit with him for a couple of hours and just reminisce on the time that has gone by. Its cool to see how present God's hand is in our lives as we look back on the past. I owe so much to Elder Kleopfer and all of the friends that I had around me while I was growing up. I think its amazing to see how God put us all together so that we could help one another stay strong in the Gospel. Now, many of us are serving missions and helping people all over the world come to know the Restored Gospel of Christ. It is amazing to be a part of this great work, especially with my great friends.
Throughout the rest of the week, we spent a lot of time traveling throughout the mission and ended up down in Yuma where we finished the last training. Our mission became the 5th mission in the world to be completely electronic... pretty awesome.
Also while we were in Yuma I was able to cross off three huge things off of my mission bucket list. 1)Stay in a Hotel 2)Go to California 3)Go to the Sand Dunes where they filmed Star Wars, The Scorpion King, ect. It was SICK! The Dunes were just like dunes in the Sahara. I will send some pics.
As well, this week Elder Oscarson and I had some pretty awesome experiences. It was our first full week on ASU and so we were finally able to get the hang of things a little and get to work. One day as we finished up a lesson at the institute we figured that we would go walk around campus and talk to people. As we walked out the door, one of the first people we saw got a huge smile and walked right up to us. Being right by the institute I though, "Awesome, we will get to know this member and then get on our way." He walked up to us, introduced himself, and said, "What are you two?" haha. Definitely not a member. We took him on a tour of the institute and he signed up for a bunch of classes and activities. It is amazing how God places those who are willing to listen right in our paths. I know that this is His work. I know that He guides and directs each and every one of our lives. As we allow him, He will guide us to do what we need to do, and become exactly who we need to be.
Also, I'm teaching people in Ghana and the Philippians :)
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
iPads. Are. Amazing. I remember when dad first got his iPad he said, "You can quote me on this. One day missionaries all over the world will have these things."....something along those lines. Well Dad, your prophesy came true. It is amazing all of the different things that we can do now. Our planner, area book, and the entire gospel library fit right into our hand. In our lessons now we are able to use videos, and now we can teach over Skype. So, get finding! I want to teach member present lessons with each of you :)
With all of the iPad training that came up, we were pretty busy traveling around the mission getting everyone lined up with their new devices. From Monday to Friday we were traveling the mission to do the training. On Monday we met here in Tempe with the entire Mission Leadership so that they would already be trained as we went to each of their zones to train later in the week. Elder Kleopfer had pneumonia, and so clearly he wasn't feeling too great, so I took him to President and Sister Toone's house so that he could get some rest while his companion was receiving the training. It was awesome to be able to sit with him for a couple of hours and just reminisce on the time that has gone by. Its cool to see how present God's hand is in our lives as we look back on the past. I owe so much to Elder Kleopfer and all of the friends that I had around me while I was growing up. I think its amazing to see how God put us all together so that we could help one another stay strong in the Gospel. Now, many of us are serving missions and helping people all over the world come to know the Restored Gospel of Christ. It is amazing to be a part of this great work, especially with my great friends.
Throughout the rest of the week, we spent a lot of time traveling throughout the mission and ended up down in Yuma where we finished the last training. Our mission became the 5th mission in the world to be completely electronic... pretty awesome.
Also while we were in Yuma I was able to cross off three huge things off of my mission bucket list. 1)Stay in a Hotel 2)Go to California 3)Go to the Sand Dunes where they filmed Star Wars, The Scorpion King, ect. It was SICK! The Dunes were just like dunes in the Sahara. I will send some pics.
As well, this week Elder Oscarson and I had some pretty awesome experiences. It was our first full week on ASU and so we were finally able to get the hang of things a little and get to work. One day as we finished up a lesson at the institute we figured that we would go walk around campus and talk to people. As we walked out the door, one of the first people we saw got a huge smile and walked right up to us. Being right by the institute I though, "Awesome, we will get to know this member and then get on our way." He walked up to us, introduced himself, and said, "What are you two?" haha. Definitely not a member. We took him on a tour of the institute and he signed up for a bunch of classes and activities. It is amazing how God places those who are willing to listen right in our paths. I know that this is His work. I know that He guides and directs each and every one of our lives. As we allow him, He will guide us to do what we need to do, and become exactly who we need to be.
Also, I'm teaching people in Ghana and the Philippians :)
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Week 62: The Sustaining Power
Familia!
Life is kind of back to normal...its nice :) Last week was probably one of the fastest weeks of my life, but I was able to learn a ton from it.
Number one thing that I learned is that when the Lord calls, He sustains. With TONS of things to get done last week and almost no time to do them, we were able to accomplish all of them. Several times I wondered with no sleep and a million things to do why I felt so great, but I know it was because Christ was with me the entire time sustaining me in my weaknesses. However, Wednesday night was probably the deepest I have ever slept haha. I was completely exhausted.
After Wednesday things had calmed down quite a bit and we were able to get back to actual missionary work. With both Elder Oscarson and I being new to the area, we had no idea what to do. We are both Spanish missionaries who have only served in a family wards, so going into English YSA work was a 180 degree change. Since we teach at the institute building on campus for nearly every lesson, the only contact information we had for our investigators were their cell phone numbers. So, we started to call everyone we could find and got a couple lessons set up. One of the investigators we had is named Justin. Justin has lived in Mesa for the majority of his life surrounded by members. He has always known "the mormons" as being great people, but he was never interested in what we believed until a couple months ago. As he started meeting with the missionaries he started gaining in interest at finally decided to ask our Father in Heaven if the Book of Mormon was in fact His word. Well, as promised he received an answer and had a desire to be baptized. Well, the missionaries before us put Justin on date for baptism for the 26th of October. So, being new to the area we tried to get a hold of Justin as soon as we could, and with each day that went by without contact we started to get more worried. Finally the 25th, one day before his baptism, we were able to sit down and have a lesson with Justin. Justin is one of the most prepared people that I have ever met. His desire is true, and he is willing to let the Lord transform his life completely. It was amazing to see at his baptism as he bore his testimony about how he knew that this was just the beginning. He talked about how he was so excited to be able to enter into the temple some day to start an eternal family.
I think one of the biggest blessings that is going to come from serving in the YSA is going to be able to work with people at such an important time in their life. In these years, such important decisions are being made, decisions that will determine the rest of their lives. It is going to be such a huge blessing serving at ASU where there are so many people searching for the Restored Gospel, but yet there is a pretty good percentage of people who are members being examples. I'm thankful for the opportunity to serve here, and I'm excited to see even more people become strongly converted to the Gospel of Jesus Christ as Justin has.
Hope all is well. You're all the best!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Week 61: The Blessings of the Holy Ghost
Familia!
Man, what a life. The mission is the best. Life can't get much better when literally every single second you are helping others come unto Christ.
This last week has been a super humbling week for me. Full of reminders of how our Father truly is in complete charge of everything and His timing and His ways are ALWAYS perfect. Sunday was a very humbling day as I was able to witness the baptism of Lupe Madrid. About a month and a half ago, Elder Cassiano and I were talking to a Family in their yard when I caught a glimpse of Lupe out of the corner of my eye. When I saw her the words came to my mind, "Talk to her." Twice I brushed off the impression to talk to her. As we walked to our car I saw a glimpse of Lupe once again several blocks away turning the corner. Once again, but with even more force I heard the words, "Talk to her." I am so very grateful for the guidance of the Spirit of God that we are all entitled to hear. I know that as we heed to those promptings, miracles happen, lives change, and we grow closer to Father. Just 6 weeks ago, Lupe had never heard of the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. Now, she has entered in through the gates of baptism to start her journey to exaltation.
Lupe's baptism was one to remember for many reasons. First off her journey was a definite miracle, but secondly, it was the most times I have ever seen someone baptized....Elder Murphey struggled on that one haha. Lupe's toe kept popping up...ten times to be exact. haha. But I'm thankful that baptism is something so important that it has to be done the exact way that Christ taught and was baptized. Each baptism is such a spiritual experience and I am so thankful to be a part of so many others lives.
A couple hours before the baptism, I received a call as well. President Toone called to ask if I would come and serve with him in the office. So, after the baptism I had thirty minutes to pack and then head up to Tempe. The last 3 days have been some of the fastest days of my life. One of my favorite things we have done since I have been here is working through the transfers. As we reviewed each and every missionary, where they should go, and callings that they should receive, it is amazing the promptings and confirmation that come from the Holy Ghost. We have also been able to spend some time with the missionaries who headed home from their missions yesterday and then also those who just came in today. I don't think I have ever been this busy in my life, however, I'm thankful for opportunities that I have to be pushed to limits I have never gone. I know that the more that comes our way the more we stretch and grow. I know that this is for sure something that is going to help me stretch, that may be a little rough some days, but I know that it is something that is going to help me become more converted to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
I love you all and hope everything is going great!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Week 60: The Gospel: A Safeguard to Life
Familia!
What a week... This was the first week in about 3 months that we didn't have anything crazy going on and were just able to focus on missionary work. It was amazing to see the miracles that happened. As we were able to focus on our area we were able to have 32 lessons and see a lot of progression in our investigators.
But, just as that week ended, reality struck again. This morning we have had missionaries losing their keys, missionaries locking themselves out of cars, missionary's cars getting windows shattered and things stolen out of the car, and now we have to help missionaries move apartments....life is great as a missionary!
Once again we have been working really closely with members and this week we have had some awesome experiences. About a week ago, Elder Murphey and I received a referral from another companionship in our zone. One night as we were doing a couple of visits with a young man from our ward we decided to contact the referral. We drove up to their home, knocked on the door, and they said they didn’t have too much time. We asked if we could share a short message with their family and they invited us in. We shared a short scripture and testified that as Christ was the center of our homes, peace and happiness could be found in all areas of life. Since they didn’t have too much time we set up an appointment for two days later.
The next day we had a meeting with the Bishop. As we talked about our investigators, we brought up this new family, the Rodriguez Family, that we had started teaching. We asked the Bishop who he thought would be a great family to fellowship the Rodriguez family and he assigned us a family who hadn’t been too active in the past couple of months. Not knowing what the outcome would be, we contacted the family and let them know when our lesson would be. Thursday night we met to have our first real lesson with the Rodriguez family. The Rodriguez family and the member family hit it off right away. We taught the Restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the member family testified the entire time how the Restored Gospel has completely changed their family. As the end of the lesson neared, we extended a baptismal invitation. Each member of the family said yes with hesitation in their voice.
As they finished saying yes, the Hermana from our ward asked if she could share something. She looked the mother of the family in the eyes and said, “I heard a story once of a Father who was teaching his child. As he was teaching his child he saw that his son wasn’t making some of the greatest decisions. As the father approached his son, he said, ‘Son, be careful where you are stepping,’ and the son instantly replied, ‘Father, I’m walking in your footprints.’” The Hermana from church, testified how important it is to be an example to your children, to lead and guide them in righteousness.
As she finished, The Hermano from the church started to share his conversion story. He said that for months the missionaries had asked him to be baptized and for months he had said, “I’m not ready, I will do it next month.” He talked about how one day the missionaries asked him to pray to know if he would be ready to be baptized that weekend. As he retired to his room that night, he started his prayer and asked the exact question the missionaries had suggested. As he sat there contemplating the words came to his mind, “You don’t know what lies ahead. You don’t know how long you will be here. Don’t put off the blessings.” The next day he told the missionaries that he was ready to be baptized and said it was one of the best decisions he had ever made. He continued to testify and exhort them to not put their baptisms off, to partake of the blessings that their Heavenly Father had for them that instant.
As they finished testifying of these experiences, we extended a baptismal date for two weeks away and they all accepted. It was awesome to see as they had those members there testifying of personal experiences, they were able to feel of the spirit and make the decision to follow Jesus Christ. Yesterday as we got ready for church we told them we would swing by and they could follow us to church. We got there a couple of minutes early and they were already dressed and waiting in their car ready to go. They had felt of the spirit as the members testified how the Gospel had changed their lives and they were eager to apply it to their own lives. It is amazing the things that can happen as we have the courage to open our mouths and testify about the blessings of the gospel.
As well, this week I received news that an investigator I had taught in a past area had passed away. It was tough to hear because I had gone through a lot with this investigator. When we started to teach him he couldn't overcome his addiction to alcohol. It was tough to see as he tried to stop time and time again with no success. As he truly delved into the Gospel of Jesus Christ, for a couple months he told us that he was able to quit drinking with ease. Sure, the temptation was still there, but as he surrounded himself with the Gospel that desire fell away. After quiting drinking for several months, his daily scripture study and constant prayer were put on a back burner. Slowly and surely he fell back into the trap that he had worked so hard to climb out of. Just this week as him and his friends were drinking he was killed in an accident.
Time and time again I have seen how important the little things in life are. Prayer must be constant, scripture study must be daily, and church attendance must be weekly. As these three things become a priority in our lives, it creates a safeguard for the temptations that are guaranteed to come. It was sad to see such a great man go, but I know without a doubt in my mind that in the spirit world where he now resides, he has accepted the Gospel of Jesus Christ into his life.
I am so very grateful for this Gospel and the comfort and knowledge that it brings. I know it is true, without a doubt in my mind. Hope all is well. Love you all!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
What a week... This was the first week in about 3 months that we didn't have anything crazy going on and were just able to focus on missionary work. It was amazing to see the miracles that happened. As we were able to focus on our area we were able to have 32 lessons and see a lot of progression in our investigators.
But, just as that week ended, reality struck again. This morning we have had missionaries losing their keys, missionaries locking themselves out of cars, missionary's cars getting windows shattered and things stolen out of the car, and now we have to help missionaries move apartments....life is great as a missionary!
Once again we have been working really closely with members and this week we have had some awesome experiences. About a week ago, Elder Murphey and I received a referral from another companionship in our zone. One night as we were doing a couple of visits with a young man from our ward we decided to contact the referral. We drove up to their home, knocked on the door, and they said they didn’t have too much time. We asked if we could share a short message with their family and they invited us in. We shared a short scripture and testified that as Christ was the center of our homes, peace and happiness could be found in all areas of life. Since they didn’t have too much time we set up an appointment for two days later.
The next day we had a meeting with the Bishop. As we talked about our investigators, we brought up this new family, the Rodriguez Family, that we had started teaching. We asked the Bishop who he thought would be a great family to fellowship the Rodriguez family and he assigned us a family who hadn’t been too active in the past couple of months. Not knowing what the outcome would be, we contacted the family and let them know when our lesson would be. Thursday night we met to have our first real lesson with the Rodriguez family. The Rodriguez family and the member family hit it off right away. We taught the Restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the member family testified the entire time how the Restored Gospel has completely changed their family. As the end of the lesson neared, we extended a baptismal invitation. Each member of the family said yes with hesitation in their voice.
As they finished saying yes, the Hermana from our ward asked if she could share something. She looked the mother of the family in the eyes and said, “I heard a story once of a Father who was teaching his child. As he was teaching his child he saw that his son wasn’t making some of the greatest decisions. As the father approached his son, he said, ‘Son, be careful where you are stepping,’ and the son instantly replied, ‘Father, I’m walking in your footprints.’” The Hermana from church, testified how important it is to be an example to your children, to lead and guide them in righteousness.
As she finished, The Hermano from the church started to share his conversion story. He said that for months the missionaries had asked him to be baptized and for months he had said, “I’m not ready, I will do it next month.” He talked about how one day the missionaries asked him to pray to know if he would be ready to be baptized that weekend. As he retired to his room that night, he started his prayer and asked the exact question the missionaries had suggested. As he sat there contemplating the words came to his mind, “You don’t know what lies ahead. You don’t know how long you will be here. Don’t put off the blessings.” The next day he told the missionaries that he was ready to be baptized and said it was one of the best decisions he had ever made. He continued to testify and exhort them to not put their baptisms off, to partake of the blessings that their Heavenly Father had for them that instant.
As they finished testifying of these experiences, we extended a baptismal date for two weeks away and they all accepted. It was awesome to see as they had those members there testifying of personal experiences, they were able to feel of the spirit and make the decision to follow Jesus Christ. Yesterday as we got ready for church we told them we would swing by and they could follow us to church. We got there a couple of minutes early and they were already dressed and waiting in their car ready to go. They had felt of the spirit as the members testified how the Gospel had changed their lives and they were eager to apply it to their own lives. It is amazing the things that can happen as we have the courage to open our mouths and testify about the blessings of the gospel.
As well, this week I received news that an investigator I had taught in a past area had passed away. It was tough to hear because I had gone through a lot with this investigator. When we started to teach him he couldn't overcome his addiction to alcohol. It was tough to see as he tried to stop time and time again with no success. As he truly delved into the Gospel of Jesus Christ, for a couple months he told us that he was able to quit drinking with ease. Sure, the temptation was still there, but as he surrounded himself with the Gospel that desire fell away. After quiting drinking for several months, his daily scripture study and constant prayer were put on a back burner. Slowly and surely he fell back into the trap that he had worked so hard to climb out of. Just this week as him and his friends were drinking he was killed in an accident.
Time and time again I have seen how important the little things in life are. Prayer must be constant, scripture study must be daily, and church attendance must be weekly. As these three things become a priority in our lives, it creates a safeguard for the temptations that are guaranteed to come. It was sad to see such a great man go, but I know without a doubt in my mind that in the spirit world where he now resides, he has accepted the Gospel of Jesus Christ into his life.
I am so very grateful for this Gospel and the comfort and knowledge that it brings. I know it is true, without a doubt in my mind. Hope all is well. Love you all!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Week 59: The Power of Prayer
Familia!
What a week! Isn't conference amazing? It truly is amazing to have a living Prophet and Apostles on the earth. So many times I talk to people on the street with the outlook that there is no way any good can come from a world like the one we live in. Conference is just a testimony builder to me how much good there is in the world. Sure, the views of the world are moving farther and farther away from the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but those who are living His Gospel are becoming more and more. So many great and powerful talks were given. I definitely know that as we abide by these teaching, that's when true happiness and joy come.
I loved President Uchtdorf's comment, "Doubt your doubts before you doubt your faith." How true it is. So many times Satan fills our mind full of meaningless doubts to fight against faith we have earned from a life time of work. As we recognize these doubts as what they are, things will become so much easy as we stay firm to the faith we have developed throughout our lives. President Eyring also mentioned something that I am going to work on for the rest of my life. He said something along the lines of, "I may not be able to change their situation right now, but they CAN know the Lord loves them." There is power in that perspective. No matter what situation someone may be in, no matter how rough things may be, their lives will improve as they truly recognize and understand that the Savior of the world loves them on a personal level. I know as I help others recognize this, not only will my love for them increase, but I will be able to feel of the Saviors love on a more powerful level in my life.
This week Elder Murphey and I have really been focusing on the power of prayer. Elder Holland said something that I really like. He said, "God is eagerly waiting for the chance to answer your prayers and fulfill your dreams, just as He always has. But He can't if you don't pray, and He can't if you don't dream. In short, He can't if you don't believe." In the Bible dictionary it talks about how prayer is a means of work by which we obtain blessings. Our Father in Heaven has so many blessings in store for us, and it is amazing that by doing something as simple as a short, heartfelt prayer, blessings can be merited. So many times I feel like we try to take matters into our own hands. We believe that we know enough and can do it by "our own power." However, it is by humility that we will be guided to successes in life.
This week as Elder Murphey and I looked back on how our area was doing, we were happy, things were moving well, but we knew that we weren't doing enough. We decided prayer needed to take a more vital role in our day. As we have sought out constant direction from God, it has been amazing to see the miracles that have come. Not only have the investigators we have been teaching progress even faster, but we have been lead and guided to the prepared. Last night for example we sat in our car looking at our plans for the night. Both of us felt like we needed to say a prayer to make sure we were going exactly where we needed to be going. As we said a prayer, our plans were confirmed and we headed out to do our visits. As we were finishing up the night, one of the most distinct impressions came to my mind. I remembered that we had talked to this man a couple of weeks earlier. The conversation was short, he was in a hurry, but he said that we could stop by again later on. As this experience came to mind, Elder Murphey and I decided it would be good to make that last visit before we headed in for the night. As we pulled up to that same house we were at a few weeks prior, a couple people were standing outside talking. As we walked up to them one of them said, "Hey Elders, my brother was an Elder. He just got married to a Mormon a little while back." We talked to him for a little while about his brothers mission in Chile, and a little bit about the church. His brother is the only member in the family, and he had several questions about the church. A couple more members of the family came out and asked us if we would be willing to come back tonight for a short visit.
I know that prompting that I receive was a direct relation to the prayer that we said earlier. As we let God know that we would be willing to heed any prompting we received, he gladly lead and guided us to exactly where we needed to be. I know that our Father has so much in store for each and every one of us, and as we prayerfully seek for answers/guidance, as said in the scriptures, everything will be for our good.
I love you all and hope everything is going well! Take Care!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
What a week! Isn't conference amazing? It truly is amazing to have a living Prophet and Apostles on the earth. So many times I talk to people on the street with the outlook that there is no way any good can come from a world like the one we live in. Conference is just a testimony builder to me how much good there is in the world. Sure, the views of the world are moving farther and farther away from the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but those who are living His Gospel are becoming more and more. So many great and powerful talks were given. I definitely know that as we abide by these teaching, that's when true happiness and joy come.
I loved President Uchtdorf's comment, "Doubt your doubts before you doubt your faith." How true it is. So many times Satan fills our mind full of meaningless doubts to fight against faith we have earned from a life time of work. As we recognize these doubts as what they are, things will become so much easy as we stay firm to the faith we have developed throughout our lives. President Eyring also mentioned something that I am going to work on for the rest of my life. He said something along the lines of, "I may not be able to change their situation right now, but they CAN know the Lord loves them." There is power in that perspective. No matter what situation someone may be in, no matter how rough things may be, their lives will improve as they truly recognize and understand that the Savior of the world loves them on a personal level. I know as I help others recognize this, not only will my love for them increase, but I will be able to feel of the Saviors love on a more powerful level in my life.
This week Elder Murphey and I have really been focusing on the power of prayer. Elder Holland said something that I really like. He said, "God is eagerly waiting for the chance to answer your prayers and fulfill your dreams, just as He always has. But He can't if you don't pray, and He can't if you don't dream. In short, He can't if you don't believe." In the Bible dictionary it talks about how prayer is a means of work by which we obtain blessings. Our Father in Heaven has so many blessings in store for us, and it is amazing that by doing something as simple as a short, heartfelt prayer, blessings can be merited. So many times I feel like we try to take matters into our own hands. We believe that we know enough and can do it by "our own power." However, it is by humility that we will be guided to successes in life.
This week as Elder Murphey and I looked back on how our area was doing, we were happy, things were moving well, but we knew that we weren't doing enough. We decided prayer needed to take a more vital role in our day. As we have sought out constant direction from God, it has been amazing to see the miracles that have come. Not only have the investigators we have been teaching progress even faster, but we have been lead and guided to the prepared. Last night for example we sat in our car looking at our plans for the night. Both of us felt like we needed to say a prayer to make sure we were going exactly where we needed to be going. As we said a prayer, our plans were confirmed and we headed out to do our visits. As we were finishing up the night, one of the most distinct impressions came to my mind. I remembered that we had talked to this man a couple of weeks earlier. The conversation was short, he was in a hurry, but he said that we could stop by again later on. As this experience came to mind, Elder Murphey and I decided it would be good to make that last visit before we headed in for the night. As we pulled up to that same house we were at a few weeks prior, a couple people were standing outside talking. As we walked up to them one of them said, "Hey Elders, my brother was an Elder. He just got married to a Mormon a little while back." We talked to him for a little while about his brothers mission in Chile, and a little bit about the church. His brother is the only member in the family, and he had several questions about the church. A couple more members of the family came out and asked us if we would be willing to come back tonight for a short visit.
I know that prompting that I receive was a direct relation to the prayer that we said earlier. As we let God know that we would be willing to heed any prompting we received, he gladly lead and guided us to exactly where we needed to be. I know that our Father has so much in store for each and every one of us, and as we prayerfully seek for answers/guidance, as said in the scriptures, everything will be for our good.
I love you all and hope everything is going well! Take Care!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Week 58: Relying on Heaven
Familia!
Finally, summer is over! From what I've heard this weeks highs are 92. Finally, some cool weather... :)
This week Elder Murphey and I were able to go back to Coolidge for three more baptisms. It always makes my week to be able to go back there. I decided Coolidge will always be my second favorite area right behind the area that I am currently serving in. haha. Its amazing to see what happens in an area when all of the members start looking for opportunities to invite others to come unto Christ. God definitely sends his prepared children to people who are looking to share the Gospel. Phoenix is definitely one of those areas and its awesome to be able to serve here at this time.
This week we had a Mission Leadership Training and we talked a lot about the mission and the things that were going on. Definitely there is proof that God is hastening his work, but along the lines of that you can definitely see that Satan has hastened his work as well. I don't think I have ever seen anyone throughout my mission who has made the decision to be baptized and then everything has been smooth sailing for them. Every single time someone makes that decision it seems like trials come out of no where. Our investigator Rosa is definitely a perfect example of this. We invited Rosa to go to a baptismal service on Saturday morning, but because we had to head down to Coolidge we weren't going to be able to make it to that one. Rosa told us that it was no big deal, she wanted to go and so we didn't need to be there. We made sure that there were members there to greet her and everything was taken care of, so it was all smooth sailing. After the baptism she told us that she wasn't just going to "commit" to be baptized, she was going to do it without a doubt. She is becoming converted to the Gospel of Jesus Christ and it is amazing to see the changes taking place in her life. Well, Sunday morning as we were waiting for Rosa to come to church she sent us a text and said, "Sorry Elders, I wont be able to make it today." We asked her if everything was going ok and we still aren't sure what she mean, but direct translation Spanish to English she said, "My son was attacked by a tire, but he is ok." haha. We are stopping by to see her tonight, so we will definitely find out exactly what happened, but its crazy that people are even facing challenges where tires attack them.... haha. Its always amazing to see as people overcome these challenges and enter into the waters of baptism how blessed they are. I definitely know that Rosa will reach this point
As well this week in the Mission Leadership Meeting that we had we talked a lot about always making sure that we were relying on our Savior for help. Elder Bednar gives a talk where he says something along the lines of, "Isn't it amazing to see how God always calls us when we have no idea what to do, and then as we start thinking we have the hang of it we are released and we receive another calling that we have no idea how to do." As I thought about that I truly believe that it can relate to all times of our lives. Our goal throughout this life is not to just "stay safe" but it is to become something great. It is not to just to do enough to get by, but it is to become something amazing. I know as we 100% rely on heaven and never become self dependent, Christ will be there with us every single step of the way. As we all have those times throughout our lives where we feel lost, where we feel like we have no idea what to do, we can 100% rely on Christ knowing that we are there for a reason and he will help us through. As we rely on Christ always, we will become exactly who we need to be.
Hope all is well! Love you all!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Week 57: Hazlo
Familia!
Another baby girl...so crazy. I still can't believe Karee was pregnant, now she has a baby... crazy stuff, but exciting. Baby Green is going to be a great addition to our Family :)
This week has been a pretty crazy week, definitely fun, but crazy. Every year the ward we are in does a talent show. Its always the biggest event of the year where tons of members from all over Phoenix come and a bunch of non-members as well. Missionaries have always participated in it doing a skit or little dance or something lame like that, so I decided this year we needed to go big. For a long time I wasn't sure what we were going to do, but then one day it came to me. Magic. So with all my magic skills I've gained over the years....none.... We set to work. It actually turned out pretty good I would say. Our first trick we tied a rope around our Ward Mission Leader's neck and then pulled the rope all the way through his neck, then we did a couple other things. We turned a Book of Mormon into a rabbit. Made a Sister Missionary turn into one of the Elders, and then we made the Elder completely disappear and reappear underneath the stage. Just your average magic performance... Haha I was surprised how it actually turned out. Not bad for our first magic show haha.
Things have been going super good in our zone. We have been trying to lift the Vision of our zone helping them realize how much potential we have. In the past, the highest baptism this zone has had is 13 in one month. For the Month of October we set the goal of 20, and already this week we have 21 on date for October and the month hasn't even started. It is amazing what we can do as we raise our visions. I think a lot of times our performance is lowered because we don't have faith first off in God and his miracles, but secondly we don't have sufficient faith in ourselves. With God we truly can do all things.
One of my favorite things we do on our mission is talking to people in the street. I feel like the best stories always come from these opportunities. This week we went to an apartment complex that we had never really spent much time in and started contacting people walking around. As time was running out and we needed to get heading to one of our appointments we saw one more lady walking down the sidewalk. We walked over towards her and started talking to her. We introduced ourselves to her and testified a little bit about the Restored Gospel. We set up an appointment for the next day and then headed on our way. The next day we had a super good lesson with her family and were able to put all of them on date for baptism for the 12th of October. We set up a church tour with their family last Thursday so that when they came to church this Sunday they would feel a little more comfortable. When we had the church tour with Rosa and her family we started talking about the Holy Ghost and how he is a guide for us in our lives. We told her many times our answers come through our feelings, but as well sometimes it can come through a still small voice. As we sat there talking about the Holy Ghost, Rosa told us that the moment we started walking towards her she saw us out of the corner of her eye. She said as we approached her even before we started talking she heard a voice in her head say "Hazlo" which means "Do it." She knew that whatever we told her would be exactly what she needed at that point in her life. I am so thankful for experiences like these. I truly do know that there are people like Rosa everywhere around us searching for more peace, guidance, and happiness in this life. I am so thankful for the Holy Ghost, for the prompting that we received to talk to her and then the witness she received even before we talked to her. I know this is Gods work. It is testified to me daily. I am so thankful for the opportunity I have to be out here serving.
I love you all! Hope everything is going perfect. Congrats on the baby Karee!
Con Amor,
Another baby girl...so crazy. I still can't believe Karee was pregnant, now she has a baby... crazy stuff, but exciting. Baby Green is going to be a great addition to our Family :)
This week has been a pretty crazy week, definitely fun, but crazy. Every year the ward we are in does a talent show. Its always the biggest event of the year where tons of members from all over Phoenix come and a bunch of non-members as well. Missionaries have always participated in it doing a skit or little dance or something lame like that, so I decided this year we needed to go big. For a long time I wasn't sure what we were going to do, but then one day it came to me. Magic. So with all my magic skills I've gained over the years....none.... We set to work. It actually turned out pretty good I would say. Our first trick we tied a rope around our Ward Mission Leader's neck and then pulled the rope all the way through his neck, then we did a couple other things. We turned a Book of Mormon into a rabbit. Made a Sister Missionary turn into one of the Elders, and then we made the Elder completely disappear and reappear underneath the stage. Just your average magic performance... Haha I was surprised how it actually turned out. Not bad for our first magic show haha.
Things have been going super good in our zone. We have been trying to lift the Vision of our zone helping them realize how much potential we have. In the past, the highest baptism this zone has had is 13 in one month. For the Month of October we set the goal of 20, and already this week we have 21 on date for October and the month hasn't even started. It is amazing what we can do as we raise our visions. I think a lot of times our performance is lowered because we don't have faith first off in God and his miracles, but secondly we don't have sufficient faith in ourselves. With God we truly can do all things.
One of my favorite things we do on our mission is talking to people in the street. I feel like the best stories always come from these opportunities. This week we went to an apartment complex that we had never really spent much time in and started contacting people walking around. As time was running out and we needed to get heading to one of our appointments we saw one more lady walking down the sidewalk. We walked over towards her and started talking to her. We introduced ourselves to her and testified a little bit about the Restored Gospel. We set up an appointment for the next day and then headed on our way. The next day we had a super good lesson with her family and were able to put all of them on date for baptism for the 12th of October. We set up a church tour with their family last Thursday so that when they came to church this Sunday they would feel a little more comfortable. When we had the church tour with Rosa and her family we started talking about the Holy Ghost and how he is a guide for us in our lives. We told her many times our answers come through our feelings, but as well sometimes it can come through a still small voice. As we sat there talking about the Holy Ghost, Rosa told us that the moment we started walking towards her she saw us out of the corner of her eye. She said as we approached her even before we started talking she heard a voice in her head say "Hazlo" which means "Do it." She knew that whatever we told her would be exactly what she needed at that point in her life. I am so thankful for experiences like these. I truly do know that there are people like Rosa everywhere around us searching for more peace, guidance, and happiness in this life. I am so thankful for the Holy Ghost, for the prompting that we received to talk to her and then the witness she received even before we talked to her. I know this is Gods work. It is testified to me daily. I am so thankful for the opportunity I have to be out here serving.
I love you all! Hope everything is going perfect. Congrats on the baby Karee!
Con Amor,
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Week 56: The Importance of the Spirit
Familia!
What a week in Phoenix, full of changes, but equally full of miracles. To start the week off, it was sad to see Elder Cassiano go. I was able to learn a lot from him, and am thankful for the time that I was able to serve with him. I truly do know that the companions we are placed with on the mission are not by accident. Each companion that I have had has helped me become a better person, As such, its always exciting to get a new companion because I know that I will learn and grow from them as well.
My new companion is Elder Murphey, he is a stud. Its funny because we both had the same friends at college, but we only saw each other like once. Its been cool to see though, because even though we don't know each other too well, we have had some of the best lessons in these few short days together. It has always been awesome to see throughout my mission how this is usually the case with every companion I serve with.
This week in my studies I really focused on following the direction of the Holy Ghost. In Doctrine and Covenants it talks about how when someone teaches by the power of the Holy Ghost and others listen by the Holy Ghost, all are edified. The Holy Ghost truly is the Senior Companion, and it has been awesome to see as Elder Murphy and I have been able to follow the promptings of the Holy Ghost, we have been able to teach together but most importantly teach to our investigators needs. We have been focusing a lot on making sure that each of our investigators have a friend in the church. Each week we report on how many lessons we taught with a member present, but this week we have been trying to focus on how many lessons we teach with a friend present. As we have done this, not only has it provided the solid support that our investigators needs, but it has caused the investigators families to become interested in the Restored Gospel as their Siblings/Parents increase in desire to learn. Our goal has always been to teach families, but it always seems like only a couple members of the families are interested. However, as we have provided friends, it has completely changed.
For a long time we have been working with the Sandoval family, but the father has been the only one interested. Slowly we started getting more and more of the family to sit in on the lessons, but now as we have that support there, pretty much the whole family is showing interest. We are planning to go to the Visitors Center at the temple with them this week. There is always such a strong spirit at the Visitors Center when you go, but especially when you can get families there together, miracles happen. One of my favorite lessons this week was with an investigator that hadn't ever came to church. She had driven past the church several times with the intent of going, but for some reason she could never get herself to go in. This week we decided that instead of having lessons at her home, we would have a lesson at the church. Pretty clever, no?... should've thought of that long ago haha.
Anyway, we had her and a couple of her friends that are members of the church meet us at the church. We wanted to focus on the blessings that come from church attendance, and so we focused on the opportunity that we have to take the sacrament every single week. On my mission, this has been something that I have learned a ton about. For most of my life, I think I have just overlooked how huge of a blessing the sacrament. Its not only beneficial to take of the sacrament weekly, but it is necessary. I love as we make three simple promises during the sacrament, to remember Him, To take His name upon us, and to keep His commandments, we recieve such a huge blessing in return. To have His spirit to be with us to guide and direct us in our daily efforts. Our Father never wanted us to do this alone. He has provided so many ways that we can have the support that we need in this life, and I know the sacrament is definitely one of them. I am thankful for the opportunity that we all have to partake of it weekly. It was awesome to see our investigator as she came to know how important the sacrament was and especially how important it will be after her baptism.
I hope everything is going great for all of you.
Love you all!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
What a week in Phoenix, full of changes, but equally full of miracles. To start the week off, it was sad to see Elder Cassiano go. I was able to learn a lot from him, and am thankful for the time that I was able to serve with him. I truly do know that the companions we are placed with on the mission are not by accident. Each companion that I have had has helped me become a better person, As such, its always exciting to get a new companion because I know that I will learn and grow from them as well.
My new companion is Elder Murphey, he is a stud. Its funny because we both had the same friends at college, but we only saw each other like once. Its been cool to see though, because even though we don't know each other too well, we have had some of the best lessons in these few short days together. It has always been awesome to see throughout my mission how this is usually the case with every companion I serve with.
This week in my studies I really focused on following the direction of the Holy Ghost. In Doctrine and Covenants it talks about how when someone teaches by the power of the Holy Ghost and others listen by the Holy Ghost, all are edified. The Holy Ghost truly is the Senior Companion, and it has been awesome to see as Elder Murphy and I have been able to follow the promptings of the Holy Ghost, we have been able to teach together but most importantly teach to our investigators needs. We have been focusing a lot on making sure that each of our investigators have a friend in the church. Each week we report on how many lessons we taught with a member present, but this week we have been trying to focus on how many lessons we teach with a friend present. As we have done this, not only has it provided the solid support that our investigators needs, but it has caused the investigators families to become interested in the Restored Gospel as their Siblings/Parents increase in desire to learn. Our goal has always been to teach families, but it always seems like only a couple members of the families are interested. However, as we have provided friends, it has completely changed.
For a long time we have been working with the Sandoval family, but the father has been the only one interested. Slowly we started getting more and more of the family to sit in on the lessons, but now as we have that support there, pretty much the whole family is showing interest. We are planning to go to the Visitors Center at the temple with them this week. There is always such a strong spirit at the Visitors Center when you go, but especially when you can get families there together, miracles happen. One of my favorite lessons this week was with an investigator that hadn't ever came to church. She had driven past the church several times with the intent of going, but for some reason she could never get herself to go in. This week we decided that instead of having lessons at her home, we would have a lesson at the church. Pretty clever, no?... should've thought of that long ago haha.
Anyway, we had her and a couple of her friends that are members of the church meet us at the church. We wanted to focus on the blessings that come from church attendance, and so we focused on the opportunity that we have to take the sacrament every single week. On my mission, this has been something that I have learned a ton about. For most of my life, I think I have just overlooked how huge of a blessing the sacrament. Its not only beneficial to take of the sacrament weekly, but it is necessary. I love as we make three simple promises during the sacrament, to remember Him, To take His name upon us, and to keep His commandments, we recieve such a huge blessing in return. To have His spirit to be with us to guide and direct us in our daily efforts. Our Father never wanted us to do this alone. He has provided so many ways that we can have the support that we need in this life, and I know the sacrament is definitely one of them. I am thankful for the opportunity that we all have to partake of it weekly. It was awesome to see our investigator as she came to know how important the sacrament was and especially how important it will be after her baptism.
I hope everything is going great for all of you.
Love you all!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Monday, September 9, 2013
Week 55: The Glorious Reunion
Familia!
Well, I'm here for another 6 weeks in Phoenix. We just got the calls this morning and Elder Cassiano is being transferred and I am here to stay. Its going to be sad to see Elder Cassiano go, he has been an awesome companion. I have definitely learned a lot from him and was blessed to serve with him. On the other hand, I'm stoked to stay here in Phoenix. I definitely know that I was meant to be in this area. I know that God truly does have a plan and a design for everything. I am reminded weekly that where I am is exactly where I need to be. I have learned a ton here in Phoenix, and I know that there is still much more that I need to do while I'm here.
This week was full of miracles. Consistently throughout this transfer, Elder Cassiano and I have been finding new people to teach. Each of these new people, whether individuals or families, are going through their own personal challenges. I have such a strong testimony of the revelation that we can receive through the power of the Holy Ghost. Without knowing these people at all some way or another we are able to teach and testify exactly to their needs. I know that each of us, no matter where we are at in our lives, can benefit from the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It truly is the answer to everything, and it is God's Perfect Plan for us to return and live with Him again.
As well this week I was able to return to Coolidge to see Estevaun, Michael Jr. and Adrian Padron be baptized by their father, Michael Sr. As we pulled up to the church and I got out of the car, all of Michael's kids ran out of the church yelling, "Elder Jurgensmeier!! You're here!!" They all ran up to me and gave me a big hug as Michael Sr. walked out of the church with one of the biggest smiles on his face. It is amazing to see the transformation that his family has gone through. As Michael Sr. baptized each one of his sons, I remembered long and hard this journey was for us, but how rewarding it was.
As we waited for all of them to get dried off and changed I sat there thinking about how grateful I am that I chose to serve a mission. My mind reflected back to the moment when each of those children ran out of the church yelling my name and seeing Michael walking towards me with a huge smile on his face. I truly believe that that moment will happen again as we have that glorious reunion in the Kingdoms of our Father. Our actions in this life truly are eternal. I am thankful to be reminded daily about my eternal goal, to live with all of those that I love in the Celestial Kingdom.
I know that no matter how hard this life is, no matter how many trials come our way, every drop of our efforts will be worth it in the end. I love you all and hope you're all doing well.
Con Amor, Elder Jurgensmeier
Well, I'm here for another 6 weeks in Phoenix. We just got the calls this morning and Elder Cassiano is being transferred and I am here to stay. Its going to be sad to see Elder Cassiano go, he has been an awesome companion. I have definitely learned a lot from him and was blessed to serve with him. On the other hand, I'm stoked to stay here in Phoenix. I definitely know that I was meant to be in this area. I know that God truly does have a plan and a design for everything. I am reminded weekly that where I am is exactly where I need to be. I have learned a ton here in Phoenix, and I know that there is still much more that I need to do while I'm here.
This week was full of miracles. Consistently throughout this transfer, Elder Cassiano and I have been finding new people to teach. Each of these new people, whether individuals or families, are going through their own personal challenges. I have such a strong testimony of the revelation that we can receive through the power of the Holy Ghost. Without knowing these people at all some way or another we are able to teach and testify exactly to their needs. I know that each of us, no matter where we are at in our lives, can benefit from the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It truly is the answer to everything, and it is God's Perfect Plan for us to return and live with Him again.
As well this week I was able to return to Coolidge to see Estevaun, Michael Jr. and Adrian Padron be baptized by their father, Michael Sr. As we pulled up to the church and I got out of the car, all of Michael's kids ran out of the church yelling, "Elder Jurgensmeier!! You're here!!" They all ran up to me and gave me a big hug as Michael Sr. walked out of the church with one of the biggest smiles on his face. It is amazing to see the transformation that his family has gone through. As Michael Sr. baptized each one of his sons, I remembered long and hard this journey was for us, but how rewarding it was.
As we waited for all of them to get dried off and changed I sat there thinking about how grateful I am that I chose to serve a mission. My mind reflected back to the moment when each of those children ran out of the church yelling my name and seeing Michael walking towards me with a huge smile on his face. I truly believe that that moment will happen again as we have that glorious reunion in the Kingdoms of our Father. Our actions in this life truly are eternal. I am thankful to be reminded daily about my eternal goal, to live with all of those that I love in the Celestial Kingdom.
I know that no matter how hard this life is, no matter how many trials come our way, every drop of our efforts will be worth it in the end. I love you all and hope you're all doing well.
Con Amor, Elder Jurgensmeier
Week 54: The Hastening of the Work (The WORLD is OPEN)
Familia,
Man how things have been changing here in the Tempe Mission. It has been an awesome/super busy last couple of weeks. I don't think we have had a moment of spare time the whole time I have been in Phoenix, but it has been good. It has been awesome to see the miracles happening in our zone. We've started to work really closely with the members and I know that as we all combine our efforts, miracles will continue to come.
As well, we are now a Facebook Mission, soon to be having Ipads in the next couple of weeks...pretty crazy how the work is hastening. We had a special Mission Leader Council called this last week, and so Elder Cassiano and I figured that something was up, and then before the meeting when President Toone said, "Give me a second, I have to call Salt Lake to make sure that everything is set up," It pretty much confirmed it for us. When we finally got connected to Salt Lake, the first thing that Brother Donaldson had us turn to was Mathew 24:14 which reads, "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come." He then stated, "Elders and Sisters, the world is now open."
He proceeded to tell us that in the last 20 years only 4 things had been voted through unanimously in the First Presidency and the Quorum of the 12 and online proselyting was one of them. Brother Donaldson said that the only thing said after it had been voted through was, "Its about time." We talked a lot about the broadcast that was given on June 23, The Work of Salvation. Regarding this Broadcast, Elder Ballard said something along the lines of, "The Work of Salvation Broadcast was as significant as any event of the Restoration. Just as big as the first vision, just as significant as the coming forth of the Book of Mormon."
It has taken me a long time to process everything, but literally the world is open to missionary work. There isn't a corner in this earth that our efforts as missionaries cannot touch. Soon I will literally be able to teach a lesson all across the world. I can literally sit down with each and every one of you and teach a lesson right in your own home to someone who may be interested in the church, so..... get finding :)
Time and time again I am reminded how key and how perfect God's timing is. Just two weeks ago we found one of the most solid investigators that I have ever found on my mission. She has never known anything about the church or the teachings of Jesus Christ and she has been so eager to learn more. The bad thing was that she was only here on a temporary Visa visiting from Mexico. Saturday as we had our last lesson with her, we testified of the importance of Baptism. As we closed the lesson, we challenged her to be baptized this month. She accepted a date for baptism, and then the next day she returned back home to Mexico. Great thing about it, we already have contact with her. I can still teach her daily on Facebook. We have her address, the missionaries are getting sent over, the Bishop will be informed, and there is no doubt in my mind that she will be baptized in this month. Gods timing is perfect.
I know that in each of our lives, no matter where we may be, as long as we are living as we should, the things that happen were meant to happen. I love this Gospel. I am so excited for the opportunity that I have to share it all over the world, with all of my family and my friends. I love you all and hope everything is going great!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Man how things have been changing here in the Tempe Mission. It has been an awesome/super busy last couple of weeks. I don't think we have had a moment of spare time the whole time I have been in Phoenix, but it has been good. It has been awesome to see the miracles happening in our zone. We've started to work really closely with the members and I know that as we all combine our efforts, miracles will continue to come.
As well, we are now a Facebook Mission, soon to be having Ipads in the next couple of weeks...pretty crazy how the work is hastening. We had a special Mission Leader Council called this last week, and so Elder Cassiano and I figured that something was up, and then before the meeting when President Toone said, "Give me a second, I have to call Salt Lake to make sure that everything is set up," It pretty much confirmed it for us. When we finally got connected to Salt Lake, the first thing that Brother Donaldson had us turn to was Mathew 24:14 which reads, "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come." He then stated, "Elders and Sisters, the world is now open."
He proceeded to tell us that in the last 20 years only 4 things had been voted through unanimously in the First Presidency and the Quorum of the 12 and online proselyting was one of them. Brother Donaldson said that the only thing said after it had been voted through was, "Its about time." We talked a lot about the broadcast that was given on June 23, The Work of Salvation. Regarding this Broadcast, Elder Ballard said something along the lines of, "The Work of Salvation Broadcast was as significant as any event of the Restoration. Just as big as the first vision, just as significant as the coming forth of the Book of Mormon."
It has taken me a long time to process everything, but literally the world is open to missionary work. There isn't a corner in this earth that our efforts as missionaries cannot touch. Soon I will literally be able to teach a lesson all across the world. I can literally sit down with each and every one of you and teach a lesson right in your own home to someone who may be interested in the church, so..... get finding :)
Time and time again I am reminded how key and how perfect God's timing is. Just two weeks ago we found one of the most solid investigators that I have ever found on my mission. She has never known anything about the church or the teachings of Jesus Christ and she has been so eager to learn more. The bad thing was that she was only here on a temporary Visa visiting from Mexico. Saturday as we had our last lesson with her, we testified of the importance of Baptism. As we closed the lesson, we challenged her to be baptized this month. She accepted a date for baptism, and then the next day she returned back home to Mexico. Great thing about it, we already have contact with her. I can still teach her daily on Facebook. We have her address, the missionaries are getting sent over, the Bishop will be informed, and there is no doubt in my mind that she will be baptized in this month. Gods timing is perfect.
I know that in each of our lives, no matter where we may be, as long as we are living as we should, the things that happen were meant to happen. I love this Gospel. I am so excited for the opportunity that I have to share it all over the world, with all of my family and my friends. I love you all and hope everything is going great!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Monday, August 26, 2013
Week 53: The Holy Ghost
Familia!
What a week in Phoenix! Finally a little bit of rain. The other night we rolled down the windows because it felt so fresh outside and then we checked the temperature.... 89.... You know its hot when 89 feels refreshing haha.
This week was a pretty busy week. Once again tons of things going on. I really don't think there has been a normal day of this transfer. It always seems like we have something crazy going on. Its good to be busy though, especially when you are able to be busy helping others. It truly is what brings me joy. I'm thankful for the opportunities that I have every single day to serve. We have a lot of things that we are starting up in this area. We just had a meeting with our Bishop yesterday discussing a few of the ideas that we have to help our ward. Our ward is a super special case. We have six full time missionaries serving in our ward, so there is a lot of work that can be done.
I truly learned a ton from the time that I was able to spend in Coolidge. I was able to see the missionary efforts go from missionaries working on one project and members working on another to us combining our efforts and all working towards the Work of Salvation as the brethren call it. It truly was and is amazing to see the changes that have happened in that area.
I know that here in Phoenix as we combine all of our efforts together we will see so many miracles. A couple of days ago Elder Cassiano and I were heading towards a lesson when we saw a few people outside doing yard work. We headed over to their home and asked them if we could help. We started talk about the Gospel and how it blesses families when out of the corner of my eye I saw an older lady walking by on the sidewalk. As I turned and looked at her I felt the most distinct impression, "Talk to her." As I sat there debating, I figured it would be rude to leave the conversation we were in and strike up another, so I figured I would stay. As we continued talking, once again the impression came into my mind, "Talk to her." I sat there reasoning for what seemed like a while, and before I knew it she was nearly a block away, so once again I decided not to go. As our conversation finished up we headed back out to the sidewalk just as I saw this lady turn the corner on another street. Once again the impression came, "Talk to her." I told Elder Cassiano that we needed to catch up to that lady and talk to her, and he replied, "I know." Since she was several blocks away, still moving, and it was night time, we figured it probably wouldn't be too affective for two 20 year old guys to take off running after an old lady, so we headed back to the car and started driving in her direction.
When we rounded the corner we couldn't see her. After driving around for a while we finally spotted her again. We parked the car about 100 feet in front of her and started walking back towards her (No worries, we didn't look like creeps. We planned it out perfectly and it went reeaal smooth haha) As our paths crossed, we started up a conversation. Turns out her Nephew is a member in Mesa and she has been going to church with him off and on for the past couple of years. She had no idea that there was a church just down the road from her home. We talked to her for a little bit longer and testified of how the Gospel could bless her life. We have an appointment set up with her tonight, so I am excited to see how everything goes. I have such a strong testimony of the Holy Ghost. He plays such a huge role in our lives. I know that his promptings are real, they are powerful, but they are also subtle. I am so thankful that three times I was given the prompting to talk to this lady. I know so many times we don't get that lucky. I am thankful for the presence of the Holy Ghost in my life. It is such a huge gift to have his guidance as a constant companion. I love this work and am so thankful to be out here.
As well, Michael Padron just got his children back. They are all getting baptized the 7th of September. It is going to be an awesome experience for their family. I'm so thankful for the opportunity that I had to get to be a part of their lives.
Hope all is well. Love you all!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
What a week in Phoenix! Finally a little bit of rain. The other night we rolled down the windows because it felt so fresh outside and then we checked the temperature.... 89.... You know its hot when 89 feels refreshing haha.
This week was a pretty busy week. Once again tons of things going on. I really don't think there has been a normal day of this transfer. It always seems like we have something crazy going on. Its good to be busy though, especially when you are able to be busy helping others. It truly is what brings me joy. I'm thankful for the opportunities that I have every single day to serve. We have a lot of things that we are starting up in this area. We just had a meeting with our Bishop yesterday discussing a few of the ideas that we have to help our ward. Our ward is a super special case. We have six full time missionaries serving in our ward, so there is a lot of work that can be done.
I truly learned a ton from the time that I was able to spend in Coolidge. I was able to see the missionary efforts go from missionaries working on one project and members working on another to us combining our efforts and all working towards the Work of Salvation as the brethren call it. It truly was and is amazing to see the changes that have happened in that area.
I know that here in Phoenix as we combine all of our efforts together we will see so many miracles. A couple of days ago Elder Cassiano and I were heading towards a lesson when we saw a few people outside doing yard work. We headed over to their home and asked them if we could help. We started talk about the Gospel and how it blesses families when out of the corner of my eye I saw an older lady walking by on the sidewalk. As I turned and looked at her I felt the most distinct impression, "Talk to her." As I sat there debating, I figured it would be rude to leave the conversation we were in and strike up another, so I figured I would stay. As we continued talking, once again the impression came into my mind, "Talk to her." I sat there reasoning for what seemed like a while, and before I knew it she was nearly a block away, so once again I decided not to go. As our conversation finished up we headed back out to the sidewalk just as I saw this lady turn the corner on another street. Once again the impression came, "Talk to her." I told Elder Cassiano that we needed to catch up to that lady and talk to her, and he replied, "I know." Since she was several blocks away, still moving, and it was night time, we figured it probably wouldn't be too affective for two 20 year old guys to take off running after an old lady, so we headed back to the car and started driving in her direction.
When we rounded the corner we couldn't see her. After driving around for a while we finally spotted her again. We parked the car about 100 feet in front of her and started walking back towards her (No worries, we didn't look like creeps. We planned it out perfectly and it went reeaal smooth haha) As our paths crossed, we started up a conversation. Turns out her Nephew is a member in Mesa and she has been going to church with him off and on for the past couple of years. She had no idea that there was a church just down the road from her home. We talked to her for a little bit longer and testified of how the Gospel could bless her life. We have an appointment set up with her tonight, so I am excited to see how everything goes. I have such a strong testimony of the Holy Ghost. He plays such a huge role in our lives. I know that his promptings are real, they are powerful, but they are also subtle. I am so thankful that three times I was given the prompting to talk to this lady. I know so many times we don't get that lucky. I am thankful for the presence of the Holy Ghost in my life. It is such a huge gift to have his guidance as a constant companion. I love this work and am so thankful to be out here.
As well, Michael Padron just got his children back. They are all getting baptized the 7th of September. It is going to be an awesome experience for their family. I'm so thankful for the opportunity that I had to get to be a part of their lives.
Hope all is well. Love you all!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Week 52: Family Prayer
Familia!
Super Awesome week here in Phoenix, So many blessings. The people here are amazing, a little different sometimes, but amazing. This week we were able to spend a lot of time with Elder Cardon, it definitely helped me a lot. Sometimes in life I feel like we complicate things a lot more than necessary. Its amazing to me how simple the Gospel of Jesus Christ is, and yet it can answer each and every one of our questions.
It was awesome to hear about some of the successes that are happening in Coolidge. A couple of days ago Emilio, an investigator that I had worked with the entire time I was in Coolidge, was baptized. He is an amazing young man and it is going to be a huge blessing for his family to have someone in their home that holds the priesthood.
As well this week Estephany was baptized here in Phoenix. After she was baptized she asked if she could take some time to bear her testimony. Not much was said, but what was said was powerful. It is amazing to see her understanding of the Gospel, and how God has helped her come to this understanding throughout her life. She mentioned how she has waited so long for this day to come, but she knows that it is just the beginning. She sees the vision, the bigger picture in life. Her goal was not baptism, but it is returning to live with God and her loved ones for the eternities. What miracles come from this simple vision. I think some of my favorite memories from the mission are sitting in peoples homes teaching of simple truths.
This week we had one of my favorite lessons so far. Towards the beginning of the week we had a lesson with the Baca Family. It was our first lesson with them, and so going in to the lesson we had planned to teach the Restoration. As we got into the lesson, the spirit guided us down a different path. Adrian, the Father, has struggled with prayer for the majority of his life. He told us that for the last several years, he hasn't even had the desire to pray. As we taught the simple truths and doctrines of prayer for the next thirty minutes the spirit entered the room. As we were closing up the lesson, we invited the family to all kneel down and for Adrian to offer the closing prayer. As he knelt down he couldn't utter the words. We sat there for about a minute as he told us he couldn't. I then asked if it would be ok if I offered a prayer, Elder Cassiano offered a prayer, and then he could say one after us. We both said our prayers, praying that Adrian would feel comfortable with praying and that he would feel of the spirit as he did. As we finished our prayers, he still couldn't utter the words to start. As we waited for a few more seconds, his son started praying. As his son closed his prayer, Adrian finally started. Through his simple, heart felt prayer, the spirit flooded into the room. As he finished his prayer we stayed kneeling for the next couple minutes talking about what we were all feeling, the spirit.
I am so thankful for prayer. We truly can speak with our Father. He loves us and wants to hear from us and as we speak to him, miracles happen. I love you all and hope all is going well! Take Care!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
Super Awesome week here in Phoenix, So many blessings. The people here are amazing, a little different sometimes, but amazing. This week we were able to spend a lot of time with Elder Cardon, it definitely helped me a lot. Sometimes in life I feel like we complicate things a lot more than necessary. Its amazing to me how simple the Gospel of Jesus Christ is, and yet it can answer each and every one of our questions.
It was awesome to hear about some of the successes that are happening in Coolidge. A couple of days ago Emilio, an investigator that I had worked with the entire time I was in Coolidge, was baptized. He is an amazing young man and it is going to be a huge blessing for his family to have someone in their home that holds the priesthood.
As well this week Estephany was baptized here in Phoenix. After she was baptized she asked if she could take some time to bear her testimony. Not much was said, but what was said was powerful. It is amazing to see her understanding of the Gospel, and how God has helped her come to this understanding throughout her life. She mentioned how she has waited so long for this day to come, but she knows that it is just the beginning. She sees the vision, the bigger picture in life. Her goal was not baptism, but it is returning to live with God and her loved ones for the eternities. What miracles come from this simple vision. I think some of my favorite memories from the mission are sitting in peoples homes teaching of simple truths.
This week we had one of my favorite lessons so far. Towards the beginning of the week we had a lesson with the Baca Family. It was our first lesson with them, and so going in to the lesson we had planned to teach the Restoration. As we got into the lesson, the spirit guided us down a different path. Adrian, the Father, has struggled with prayer for the majority of his life. He told us that for the last several years, he hasn't even had the desire to pray. As we taught the simple truths and doctrines of prayer for the next thirty minutes the spirit entered the room. As we were closing up the lesson, we invited the family to all kneel down and for Adrian to offer the closing prayer. As he knelt down he couldn't utter the words. We sat there for about a minute as he told us he couldn't. I then asked if it would be ok if I offered a prayer, Elder Cassiano offered a prayer, and then he could say one after us. We both said our prayers, praying that Adrian would feel comfortable with praying and that he would feel of the spirit as he did. As we finished our prayers, he still couldn't utter the words to start. As we waited for a few more seconds, his son started praying. As his son closed his prayer, Adrian finally started. Through his simple, heart felt prayer, the spirit flooded into the room. As he finished his prayer we stayed kneeling for the next couple minutes talking about what we were all feeling, the spirit.
I am so thankful for prayer. We truly can speak with our Father. He loves us and wants to hear from us and as we speak to him, miracles happen. I love you all and hope all is going well! Take Care!
Con Amor,
Elder Jurgensmeier
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