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
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