December 27, 2010

Hello again!

 

I hope that everyone had a safe and fun Christmas with your families (or whoever you spent it with). I know ours down south was very nice filled with some good memories. Allow me to fill you in!

 

I won't go into a ton of detail on the first part of the week. We had a couple of meetings that we went too and had some administrative things to get taken care of in preparation for tomorrow's transfers. Most of our lessons happened in the first part of the week seeing that the latter half would be a little more difficult to find people at home. We are working with this really cool part member family that referred themselves about 3 weeks ago. She is a member but her husband and her daughter aren't. SO, they are showing tons of progress and hopefully with be baptized by next month.

 

Christmas eve was spent at the mission home with President and Sister Beck. They had their son Tyler and his wife Sarah there, a family  they knew from Ohio, the Clark's (one of our awesome office couples), and the English Assistants. We had their traditional Christmas dinner and participated in some of their family Christmas traditions ranging from a live nativity to Christmas bingo. It was a lot of fun and I'm very grateful for the chance I had to spend my Christmas Eve with them. We also went to one of our recent converts and had a small Christmas dinner with them to end off our night.

 

Christmas day was a busy day no doubt. Elder Bingham and I did some Secret Santa deliveries to a few families in our branch that wouldn't really be having a good Christmas. It was an incredible start to the day...to give rather than to receive. I also had the chance to call home (Funny story I don't think I mentioned....I actually forgot that we call home on Christmas day until a week ago). It was awesome to be able to talk with them, to hear of the spiritual progress they are making, and the see the blessings that our Heavenly Father has given them. We had a breakfast with a member family in our ward and played a good couple of hours worth of soccer at the church. I tell you what, after not playing for a while...running becomes a little hard! :) But we ended our day by going to a baptism for some of our spanish elders out in Surprise. It was a great service and a perfect capstone for our Christmas Day.

 

I am so very grateful for a loving Heavenly Father for sending us such a precious gift to us. I know that Jesus Christ is the son of God, the Savior and Redeemer of the world. His invitation is extended to all those who desire to "come unto him" and find rest in these the last days. I know that as we follow Jesus Christ we will be lead back to live with our Father in Heaven again. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

December 20, 2010

Well, we only have one computer to work on this week so it will be BRIEF!

 

We had and INCREDIBLE week this past week. We had some awesome spiritual experiences, every one of my personal studies was unbelievable and everything went out with a bang.

 

This past Saturday we had 4 baptisms for our area. I've attached pictures of the baptizees. For Hno. Cruz and Hno. Arellano, it was the first time that they have baptized someone and for Hno. Cruz (a convert of about 6 months) he did his first confirmations yesterday. It was AMAZING!

 

God will never cease to be a God of miracles. We have seen many of them this Christmas season. Let us remember the true meaning of Christmas this holiday season. Ponder on the powerful and precious gift of the Atonement that we have received. I pray that each one of you has a fun, safe and spirit filled Christmas day as we celebrate the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ.

 

Merry Christmas!

Elder Klemme

 

 "Do you believe in miracles?" We found Samantha after we caught her runaway chihuahua Nuki. We have been teaching since I first came in to the area, almost lost her a couple of times, waited for 2 months for a marriage and then *BAM all at once things started to roll. She is absolutely incredible.

 

 

"Waiting Game": The only thing that kept us from baptizing these two little girls earlier was the little sister. When the three of them decided that the baptism for the older two was ok, it happened fast!

 

 

"All you need is love": Like the other three this family has a miracle story behind them and they are very dear to my heart. Their next step: TEMPLE!

December 13, 2010

Hey everyone!

 

Well, thus ends another fantastic week in the Arizona Phoenix Mission! And boy was it a busy one!

 

I guess to emphasize the most important events of the week, we are seeing incredible progress in our area. We are seeing the Lord's hand in our work as well as seeing the effect of the Christmas season. People are a little bit more open to hear from you :) We had the opportunity to go up to Prescott again this past week and work with the Elders up there. I was expecting it to be freezing cold and snow everywhere. I was COMPLETELY wrong. It was a balmy 70 degrees or so during the day and not a speck of snow to be seen. Oh well, maybe next time. It's been really interesting this year. We had about 2 weeks of cooler weather but now it is staying a consistent 75 or 80 degrees. Don't get me wrong, we are enjoying every bit of it but I get this nasty feeling that this coming summer is going to be a Hot one. For the meantime, we'll take what we are given.

 

Two of our investigators, Tino and Samantha, had their wedding this last Thursday. It was awesome! They asked to sign as witnesses, tons of members showed up, there was a party for them afterward...The ward definitely earned top marks for this one. Now they completing all of the commandments and Samantha is getting baptized this Saturday! If I had any pictures I would put them up but...I haven't gotten them yet. I'll be sure to post some as soon as I get them!

 

This week is looking to be another busy one. We have our interviews with President as well as our four baptisms this coming Saturday. I tell you what, when you have a lot of progressing investigators you have your work cut out for you! However we would not have it any other way. Along those lines, we found a couple more awesome part-member families that are showing lots of promise. We are excited and look forward to working with them a little bit longer.

 

Well, that about wraps it up for this week! I hope that those in school did well on their finals and that everyone enjoys the next couple of weeks free of worry and care. I pray that each of you remember the true spirit of Christmas. Have a great and safe week!

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

December 6, 2010

Hey everyone!

 

Well, message wise this will be pretty short BUT, I have pictures this time. I hope you all enjoy them

 

This past week was a busy one. We had our Christmas Zone Conferences this past week that included a special endowment session in the Mesa Temple. It was a very special experience for all of the missionaries. We were also able to see the Christmas lights around the temple. They are one of the largest religious lights displays in the world, second only to the Salt Lake temple (I believe). It was a fun time for sure!

 

Elder Bingham also had the opportunity to set two more baptismal dates this past week. Next Saturday, the 18th of December, we are planning to have 4 baptisms with 4 more coming very soon (If not this month, in January for sure). We are being incredibly blessed.

 

Being a missionary is the absolute best. I am so glad to be here in this mission at this time. My experience as a servant of Jesus Christ has in all aspects changed my life.

 

Have a great and safe week!

 

With love and Christmas greetings!

Elder Klemme

 

Pictures 1&2: Cottonwood: I saw snow!

Picture 3-6: MESA TEMPLE!!

 

 

November 29, 2010

Hey Everyone,

 

This week I had the opportunity to go to the temple again. We received a call from one of the spanish missionary companionship's in our mission telling us that one of Elder Bingham and My converts was going through for the first time. It was a very special experience for both of us. Actually, she was the first lady I ever baptized on the mission...Hna. Margarita Coronado. When she saw us there she just started to cry and as we left the temple we could just feel her joy....literally it was so thick you could have cut it with a knife. It was a great day.

 

Moving on to the rest of the post, I hope that everyone had a great Thanksgiving day and spent it with those you love. We had the opportunity to go the the mission home and have dinner with the Becks. It was a fun time, they made a lot of food (which means: LEFTOVERS!) We also had the opportunity to sit down and talk about the spanish work and other cool things like it. All in all it was a good experience!

 

On Thanksgiving day I centered my personal study on the doctrine of Gratitude. This last General Conference President Monson gave a fantastic talk on the subject. I would encourage each of you to pull it out and read it. As I sat pondering on the subject, I began to realize that it is IMPOSSIBLE to name every blessing that we have been given. As I named one blessing I discovered that beneath every blessing are other blessings, and other blessings beneath those. To keep a long story short, there is not anything that we have been given as a blessing.

 

It is such a blessing to me to be able to be a missionary, be take the gospel to every person I see. It is a blessing to see the hand of the Lord in our work, to be guided by him to say and do the right things at the right times. It is a blessing to have knowledge on the Atonement of Jesus Christ, to know that each and every one of us can change and become better people. It is a blessing to have a living and modern day prophet, someone who is guiding us through the difficulties of today. I am so grateful for a loving Heavenly Father. As we approach Christmas, I would challenge each and every one of you to reflect on all the blessings, all the gifts that you have received and to share them with others. I know that as we focus our thoughts on the Savior this Christmas will become more meaningful and we will find true joy. Have a great and safe week!

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

Hey Everyone

 

Sorry that I'm not going to be able to get a post off this week. I hope that everyone has a great Thanksgiving and don't forget to "Count your blessings, name them one by one, and it will surprise you what the Lord has done." So long until next week!

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

"Fence" Post November 15, 2010

Hello again!

 

To start off, WOW! What a week. It was incredibly busy but spiritual in the extreme.

 

As we approach the end of the transfer, we had the opportunity to attend a temple session with President Beck. It was the first time I have gone since July (too long if you ask me). I cannot fully describe the amount of love I have for the temple. It was an incredible session...I left feeling very much edified and spiritually charged for the upcoming transfer rush.

 

Apart from that, we just saw the hand of the Lord in the work. We found five new investigators this past week that have a ton of promise. One of them came from a MEMBER REFERRAL, a family from the area book and one from our own personal finding efforts. We are very excited for the potential they are showing and know that as we involve THE MEMBERS things will turn out great.

 

As a part of the spiritual week, we had an Arizona state wide stake conference broadcast yesterday. President Monson was presiding. We had the opportunity to listen to Bishop H. David Burton who spoke on Gratitude, Sister Barbara Thompson who spoke on the power of the Book of Mormon, Elder Quentin L. Cook who spoke on Enduring Trial, and President Monson who spoke on MEMBER missionary work. It was a very good conference. I left feeling very edified and ready to go teach the people.

 

All in all we may not have had the best statistical week but in level of spirituality...it was one of the best.

 

I have been pondering on the power of simplicity the past couple of days and look forward to studying the topic through the course of the week. Understanding that this post is pretty small, I would direct you to President Hinckley's talk " Find the Lambs, Feed the Sheep". Sharing the gospel is not a hard thing to do. All it takes is to open our mouths and talk. the return missionaries who read this blog know the important role of the MEMBERS. For example, there is a stake in our mission who will have baptized about 140 people by the end of this year...with about half the number of MEMBER referrals. NOW, just imagine what would happen if the number of MEMBER referrals doubled. Pretty incredible isn't it. :)

 

Brothers and Sisters, this gospel work is true. It is the most important work on the face of this earth. We are dealing with a lot more than temporary earthly happiness. We are dealing with eternity! Everyone deserves a chance to hear the gospel. Just open your mouths and "they shall be filled." Have a fantastic week!

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

 

PS. Enjoy the pictures! The turkey's name is Gallipavo and the turtle's is Stuart. About the picture with me...There are just times where you get excited on P-day. :)

Hello Friends!

 

I love the gospel and for the opportunity I have to share it. This week, like that past 2 other weeks, were filled with meetings but I was able to have some pretty incredible experiences. To start with a brief explanation, the Spirit is the most important thing that must be present in a lesson. Without, missionary success is impossible.

 

We attended several Specialized Training meetings this past week. We discussed the importance of consecrating our minds on our work (D&C 4:2) and being obedient to overcome the natural man (Mosiah 3:19). In the afternoon, the zones broke out into individual zone meetings and addressed those topics important to their zone. One meeting really stuck out to me. They did a testimony meeting, zone discussion, etc. All centered around the Book of Mormon. This zone has a rich history of using the Book of Mormon in all that they do: Teaching, finding, extending commitments...truly they understand the role of the Book of Mormon in a person's conversion. As I sat in that meeting, I started to ponder on my own testimony of the Book of Mormon and was inspired to turn to 2 Nephi 33:4-5. As I read those verses the spirit bore witness to my soul that the Book was indeed true and, like Elder Holland stated two conferences ago, was written under the inspiration of God.

 

I've pondered some pretty interesting topics this past week that, I feel, have really helped my deepen my understanding of my purpose as a missionary. One experience I would like to summarize really captures that Idea. We felt inspired to visit a part member family that had canceled their appointment the night before. We knew what we wanted our product to be as a result of the visit...but the way we arrived there was completely different than what we expected. I won't share the details of the visit because the experience is very sacred to me but I will go to say that the spirit was the teacher. As I was writing the experience in my journal I could remember word for word the discussion that occurred during the visit. To explain the situation, the family has been on and off active for the past 2-3 years or so. However, the mom became pregnant a little over the year ago and hadn't come to church since then. Her 13 year old daughter, Savannah, wants to be baptized but we knew that if we were to baptize her quickly she would fall away. We knew that we had to get the mom active again and the dad to lead his family on the path of righteousness. I am humbled to say that, because of our visit this past Saturday, Hna. Arellano went to church for the first time in over a year...and stayed for all three hours. It was an incredible experience.

 

I know that this gospel is true. I have no doubt in my mind that Joseph Smith saw our Heavenly Father, or God, and his Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. I know that he was called to be the prophet of the Restoration. I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God. Nobody can convince me otherwise. The gospel of Jesus Christ, his Atonement, is the only thing that can heal a wounded soul. It is the only thing that will bring true and everlasting happiness. I know that life is tough...that we face difficult challenges but our Savior has passed beneath them all and knows how to support his people. I am humbled to be his representative. I carry his sacred name every day to proclaim the love that he has for each one of us. That is my testimony in the name of his holy name, even Jesus the Christ, Amen.

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

November 1, 2010

Dear friends,

My time is short this week so this will be brief. I wanted to bear my simple testimony of the truthfulness of Alma 37:6-7. I had the opportunity this week to see the full effect of Heavenly Father’s hand in the work. We started off in a massive battle against the powers of Satan. It caused us to lose the one baptismal date we had and our investigator pool shrinking at a scary rate. By Tuesday night we knew we had to make a change or we would be left in a terrible state. We got down on our knees and committed with Heavenly Father that we would “Go where he wanted us to go” and do what he wanted us to do. We set a window of heaven during our tracting time the next day. Result: We found a family of six. We dedicated more time and thought to our Progress Record. Result: The ward took it and ran with it. We started contacting every referral that we had or lost contact with. Result: We found a new family of seven. Miracles from the hands of our Heavenly Father.

Obedience is not a hard thing to do. We learn from Alma 41:10 that “wickedness never was happiness.” Missionary Work is very dynamic. There are many different branches and methods but…the best method is the one that the Lord has set apart. It’s found in Preach My Gospel. It is found in the Scriptures. It is found in the words of our modern day Prophets and Apostles. It is found in humbly kneeling down in prayer and supplication from our Heavenly Father to ask for help…for the guidance of the Holy Ghost to lead you to those people whom he has prepared. Then, last but not least, consecrating yourself….your mind, your energy, and most importantly your heart to the work. My friends this gospel is true and is the living water that Christ spoke of. The doctrine we teach is His doctrine. It is the only thing that will bring eternal life, eternal happiness to the sons and daughters of our Heavenly Father. Now, as the Doctrine and Covenants says, “Shall we not go on in such great a cause?” Open your mouths and they shall be filled. Talk with your friends. Share with them what has brought you happiness. I know that as you do so Heaven’s blessings will descend upon you and your hearts will be filled with the Savior’s love. This is my humble testimony and I give it in the sacred name of our Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen.

October 25, 2010

Hello all!

 

Talk about a fast and furious week. I couldn't believe how fast it went by! But, I was able to learn some pretty awesome things. Here's the scoop.

 

We had our quarterly Zone Conferences this past week and we focused on Receiving Revelation through prayer. Even though we heard all the talks three times and sat through 3 days worth of practice teaching I still learned a lot. I just want to share a couple of insights I had and expound on them a little bit.

 

1-When we pray too much for guidance we are shirking away from our Personal responsibility to study it out in our mind. As a result our spiritual growth slows.

 

This idea was really interesting to me. Sister Beck taught us about Decision Prayers and Petition Prayers. Petition prayers are those where we ask for help (eg. "Please Bless..." or "Please help me to..."). In these prayers we are seeking for guidance and are depending on the Lord for him to help us. The second prayer, a Decision Prayer, is one that is offered Post-made decision. It is a prayer in which we go to the Lord with an answer and ask him to confirm or reject it by the Holy Ghost (See D&C 9:7-9). These are really important because they allow us to use our agency, grow by study and faith, and really understand how the Holy Ghost communicates with us.

 

2-Prayer is a process of trial an error. When we pray we have to have a certain level of humility in order to receive an answer. This also goes back to the decision prayer. We cannot be afraid that Heavenly Father will say no or we will not receive an answer, rather, we will not be in tune enough to recognize it. Elder Bruce R. McConkie (I think that's how you spell his name) said, "Revelation is the natural inheritance of the faithful. Are you listening?" As we begin to humble ourselves we become as the Savior in the Garden of Gethsemane. We are able to say, "Thy will be done."

 

These are just a couple of thoughts I've been pondering on over the past few days. I hope that they have enlightened your minds and have given you some insight.

 

The rest of our week was pretty fast and furious. We went on 4 separate Leadership exchanges this past week and worked all over the mission. I had the opportunity to go back and work in South Phoenix for the night. It was a great experience! All and all things are going well. We have an investigator with a baptismal date and have some good investigators that we are teaching right now. It's going to be a bit of a time/waiting/powerful lesson process for them but things are looking positive.

 

Well, I hope that you all enjoy the blog and have a great week. Know that each of you is a daughter and son of God and that he loves you very much. Also, doubt not, fear not. Open your mouth and share the blessings you have from the gospel with your neighbors. They want the happiness you have too!

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

October 18, 2010

Here we are again! I had some pretty awesome experiences this week…but time is short. I’ll do my best to summarize.

Over the past few weeks it’s been a real struggle to find new people. We would have some good contacts that would seem to have promise but when we went back they either weren’t there or simply didn’t open the door. We’ve been doing our best to convert to an “escalator” approach to the work meaning that we baptize weekly but we still have a full teaching pool. Neither one has happened so far but we have made some progress.

I have a strong testimony of the power of fasting. I know that it is a powerful and necessary tool in the Lord’s work. It is because of it that we found four spectacular people this past week:

-Daniel: Father of 2. Let us in after knocking on his door, shared a little bit about the Restoration and responded, “When can you come back? I’m actually interested in this.” We have an appointment today

-Dulce and Vianey: sisters currently living with each other. Dulce was a referral from the English missionaries. We had our first sit down lesson last night and, by the end, could tell us the whole story of the Restoration AND the things they needed to do in order to know if it is true. Accepted a baptismal commitment.

Victor: 12 year old kid that is living with our Hombres Jovenes Secretary. I’ve only met a one other kid like him…and he got baptized. Wants to start coming to church and going to mutual to make something of his life. His mom is starting to show some interest as well.

It was so powerful to see all of these people just ready for the gospel. I know that we were lead to talk with them and that they are those the Lord has prepared to hear the gospel.

That was the biggest break through we had this past week. In other news, I had the chance to go with Elder Bingham and work up in Prescott on Saturday with the two Spanish missionaries we have up there. It was beautiful. Mid 70’s, cool breeze, fresh air, mountains…It was nice. We had a good day and found some…interesting people. We didn’t find too many Hispanics sadly but we did find this family that showed a lot of interest. The most interesting however was our contacting experience around the Prescott courthouse (don’t worry, we didn’t go on the courthouse grounds…just walked on the other side of the street and talked to people). It was quite the experience…One I wouldn’t mind doing again. All in all, it was a good experience and an awesome opportunity to see another side of the missionary work in our mission.

Well, that’s about all for this week! I hope that every has a safe week and success in all that they do. Know that you are loved by a Heavenly Father and that there are those waiting to hear the gospel. Doubt not, fear not and open your mouth to share the gospel with others! Enjoy the pictures as well!

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

 

 

Pictures:

Prescott Valley, Prescott, Thumb Butte, Prescott Lakes, and other wonderful shots of the Northern Territory of the Arizona Phoenix Mission

 

 

Well, another week gone and wow, it was incredibly fast and furious. Here's the scoop:

 

We had transfers this past week. Talk about a process! BUT we got all the missionaries home that needed to go home, all the new missionaries here that needed to come here, and ALL the missionaries to where the needed to be without a problem. Thank goodness!

 

I don't have a lot of time to write this week but I wanted to include something I learned from my personal study this past week:

 

I had the opportunity to go on a split Thursday morning and during my studies I found this scripture in Helaman. It's Helaman 15:7-8. As I pondered on what it read, it really came to me that the process for long lasting conversion doesn't require completing a lot of difficult tasks. It simply takes a deep desire: desire to recognize that your life isn't where it needs to be, desire to put aside our "pet sins" as President Beck has referred to them, desire to stand up for truth against opposition, and desire mixed with bravery to test the scriptures and follow the true path of Jesus Christ. I have seen this during my own mission experience. The Recent Converts that I know and are active today followed these criteria. And they are characterized as "Firm and Steadfast" in the faith. Now my question to you is, what is required in order for us to maintain such characteristics? Check out the scripture and study it out. I know it will help you reflect on your position and on the things you still have yet to gain.

 

Well, I'm sorry it is so short this week but, like President Beck says, time is not our ally. Have a great and safe week and until next post, iHasta Luego!

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

I really don't have much to talk about this week but rather would like to share some thoughts I've had over this past weekend. I hope that this message helps someone who reads it.

 

I am so grateful for the opportunity that I had this past weekend to watch General Conference. I remember growing up that Conference weekend was always something to be excited about. I got to hang out with church friends in between sessions, eat out with my parents, and listen (which was a little bit harder when I was young :)). This weekend brought back some memories of those experiences and made me grateful for parents who taught me the importance of General Conference while I was young.

 

I tried something a little  different this conference go around. I decided that the only notes I would take would be a 1 line topic statement for each of the talks. I think, more than anything, it will make me appreciate the Conference Ensign. Generally, I was able to feel and be taught by the spirit.

 

I particularly liked the 2 talks by President Uchtdorf: the first on Simplicity and the second, given at the Priesthood session, about pride. I also enjoyed Elder Christoffereson's talk on living a consecrated life and Elder Nelson's talk on member/full-time missionary work. I noticed a common thread in all the talks. Each one was connected to obedience and missionary work. Two things, I feel, are essential principles in today's day and age.

 

Something that really touched me this conference however was the overwhelming sense of gratitude that came from each on of the brethren. Elder Holland's and President Monson's talk on gratitude really made me reflect on my life up to this point and my mission experience as a whole. I cannot adequately explain the feelings that I had and that I continue to have as I ponder deeply of the blessings I have received throughout the years.

 

We had the opportunity yesterday to watch General Conference in the mission home with President and Sister Beck. It was an incredible experience to be able to watch General Conference with two people I have come to love very much. It made me reflect on those days of sitting in our ward building in Missouri with my parents watching conference and feeling of the eternal love my parents have for our leaders.

 

Now, up to this point, this post has seemed very sentimental. But, here is the point that I'm trying to make:

 

Power to overcome the adversary comes as we heed the inspired council of our leaders.

 

My dear friends, I have a testimony of the truthfulness of The Restoration. It is an event that cannot be proven by man, only by the spirit. God is wiser than any mortal man will ever be. His ways are not our ways. We are all living part of his great and eternal plan. For that reason, he calls and inspires ordinary men like you and me to lead and guide us on our journey back to the Father. I know that the Book of Mormon is true. Nobody can or will convince me otherwise. The sacred experiences I have had while studying those sacred words have brought me closer to my Savior Jesus Christ. People may mock our message, argue how "false" it is, preach how deceived we are...but they will never take the message into their hands and try it out themselves. Fear of stepping outside the box, fear of breaking tradition, fear to put their trust in God....fear...the antithesis of faith. My friends, I am a representative of our Savior Jesus Christ, called by God, to strengthen the feeble knees and bring lost sheep into the true fold of Christ. There is no other way, there is only one truth. I know this church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the Church of Jesus Christ restored again in our day. It's purpose, to help us "come unto Christ" (Omni 1:26). Our reward, eternal life in the presence of God with our family. There is no other substitute, there is no other way. I know this message to be true and I cannot deny it. Christ lives, he is our Savior, he loves each and every one of us, and his arms are stretched out still. I encourage all of you to read The Book of Mormon, pray about its message, and put your trust in Heavenly Father that he will lead and guide you to the path you are looking for. Come unto Christ and take part of the blessings of his gospel is my prayer in the sacred name of our Savior, Jesus Christ, amen.

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

Hello again!

 

Well, we are still working hard! We had a bit of an interesting week with some interesting challenges but we are still going. Here's the scoop.

 

We had 6 baptismal dates about 2 weeks ago. The families were progressing really well, staying on track with the plans that we had made with each and everyone of them. Then, it all fell apart. 2 of the 6 were not married, she had photo id but her "esposo" lost his so now the only way they will get baptized is when she goes back to Mexico and he quits his job. 3 more have the exact same situation but NEITHER have photo ID (The interesting thing about this one: They have been active for 2 years and can't get baptized because they aren't married). The other one requires us to re-activate a family which is always fun. It's great to see a family come back. Basically, there are 7 baptisms being held up for our branch because of marriage issues. It's been fun but, like I said, you keep going forward. The families are still doing really good so there isn't a ton to be concerned about. We know that Satan will be attacking them here pretty soon so we still have our work cut out for us.

 

Apart from that things have been pretty calm. We did some splits this past week and I had my quarterly interview with President Beck on Tuesday. It went well, short and enjoyable as always. As a whole, the mission is doing really well.

 

I guess to end of this post (sorry it is a little lame) I wanted to include something that I have been pondering about this past week. We've had the opportunity to really see Heavenly Father's hand in our work with all the legal problems that we have been having. I've often thought "What do we need to do to qualify for Heavenly Father's grace?" As I sat pondering I began to think about the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the Savior's prayer in Gethsemane. We have a quote in our apartment that explains the choices that Christ had to made. He, even the greatest of all, had to willingly submit beneath everything. He could have turned back at any moment. He could have said, "I don't want to do this anymore." But he didn't. He completed his task as he suffered such pain as to shed blood from every pore, was crucified on Golgotha or a place called Calvary, and was Resurrected by Priesthood power on the third day. As all these thoughts came to my mind, it came to me "Christ had to do the whole will of the Father before he could complete his task." The same applies to us. If we so desire to qualify for the grace or mercy of Heavenly Father, we must be obedient and do ALL THAT WE CAN to be so. I know that God loves us, that we are his children, and that he wants us to succeed. Our purpose here in this life isn't to fail but rather to be happy by being obedient. I know that as we do these things and strive to be the most obedient we can be, we will qualify ourselves for Heavenly Father's mercy and obtain all that he has in store for us. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

Hello again!

Well another busy week in the Arizona Phoenix Mission. We are starting to get into the latter half of the transfer so things are going to be heating up here pretty soon. We work very close with president for the few weeks leading up to transfers so he can give us our assignments and make all the arrangements for cars, meeting times, etc. It will be an interesting experience and I’m looking forward to it.

NOW to more important things!!

I love being a missionary even though you get weeks when it is just downright tough. This was one of those weeks. Elder Bingham and I had a lot of trainings, splits, and other things to do this week so we weren’t in our area a ton. But, gratefully Heavenly Father made up for our slight absence. However, even though we work hard there are just sometimes when the adversary plays a higher hand and you lose a battle. We had 6 baptismal dates at the start of the week and lost all 6 of them by this past Sunday. I have come to realize that Satan even uses good people to cause havoc in the Lord’s work. We were able to reset 3 of them but the other 3 aren’t going to happen anytime soon. But, you know what, we keep pressing forward!

I had a pretty awesome experience this past weekend. We were blessed with the opportunity to have Elder Richard G. Hinckley from the 70 hold a mission wide conference where he addressed us on the Fundamentals from Preach My Gospel: Teaching More Effectively and on the new www.mormon.org Website that was launched about a month ago. I would encourage you all to check it out. It’s a pretty site (pun intended) to see. But, not only were we able to see Elder Hinckley but as Elder Bingham and I went in to set up for the meeting we walked right passed Elder Hales from the Quorum of the 12. Simply said, he’s a very nice man. J

I really didn’t have much to say for this week but I know that this church is true and that what I’m doing is what Heavenly Father needs me to do at this time. I read Moroni 7:45 this past week and I really began to understand (began being the key word) how the Savior must have felt and still feels for each of us. I know that I have lots of faults and I make a lot of mistakes but I always know that I can go to him and change. Just something to ponder on for the week.

That’s all I have! I hope that you all have a great week and that you have success in whatever you do. iQue Dios esté con uds.!

Sept. 13th, 2010

 

Hey everyone!

 

I really have no time to write this post so it will be relatively short but there were a couple of things I wanted to share with you all from this past week. I apologize if it seems rushed :)

 

We had an incredibly busy but a great week this past week. We ended up doing 4 splits out of the last 7 days but were able to see some pretty incredible miracles. We had the blessing of being able to set 2 more baptismal dates this week which brings our pool up to 6 people with a baptismal date. We are seeing great amounts of growth in our area as well as the whole mission. I can't tell you just how powerful of a testimony I have of being obedient. It truly is the first law of heaven upon which all blessings are predicated.

 

Also this week I had the opportunity to study some missionary examples from the Book of Mormon. I found some pretty interesting connections between all of them (bore powerful and frequent testimony, complete consecration of their lives, humble, etc.) but when I brought that up with Elder Bingham he brought something else to my attention that I never had thought of before. In each example that I studied, each person had a very profound understanding of the Atonement (Alma the Younger, The sons of Mosiah, Abinidi, etc.) I began to reflect on how my own testimony of the Atonement has grown. I thought back on an experience so sacred that I've have only shared it with 2 people: My companion at the time and the investigator I saw it work in). My dear friends, we are never left alone to walk the perils of life. Christ has already suffered all of our pains, sorrows, and afflictions so we could have someone to lean on. I have come to realize the true power of the Atonement by personal experience and by studying the scriptures. I love our savior so much. His call to "come unto me" is one that I am blessed to share with everyone I meet. I know that he walks alongside us, encouraging us to press forward when we are doing well and lifting us up when we fall. His grace is sufficient to all who just take hold of his hand and follow him.

 

I love you all and hope you know that you are loved and prayed for daily. I know that this gospel is true. I wouldn't be anywhere else besides right here on a mission. Have a great week and look forward to next weeks post!

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

 

 

"I hope they call me...": I know it is a typical picture but I thought it was funny. I was on a split and we locked up our bikes not even realizing where we put them until we got back. :D

Hello again!

We had an incredibly busy week this week but, wow, did we see some awesome things. We had a 3 day leadership training that took quite a bit of time out of our schedule but it was incredibly uplifting. There was a big focus on the role of the Holy Ghost in conversion and how we, as missionaries can act as a conductor for the spirit in our lessons. It was very well done and I know that I left feeling very edified. As a side note, I should mention that a couple of weeks ago I was transferred from my area as a zone leader and was called to a new assignment. President called me as the new Spanish Assistant to the President for the mission. It has been a great experience and I have seen some pretty incredible miracles.

Speaking of miracles :), we were able to see a miracle in the baptism of a family of 6 this Saturday! The other elders in our ward have been working with them for about 2 months and the service was amazing. When they finished taking pictures they came in and all sat down on the front row. I can't tell you how amazing it was just to see a whole row filled up with people in white baptismal suits...the spirit was most definitely present. They incredible part for us was the fact that we had an investigator present and she committed herself to be baptized in four weeks. She told us "I've never felt anything like this before....it's like my heart is jumping inside of my chest and I feel so peaceful...I want to be baptized." It was an incredible experience to say the least :)

As we've had these trainings this past week I've been pondering a lot of different things. From the role of the Atonement in the life of a missionary, to humility in leadership roles, to the power of innovation. I was pondering on how dynamic the work of the Lord is. Not one thing happens as a coincidence. Heavenly Father's hand is in everything. The trick is, will we follow the promptings as we receive them from the Holy Ghost or turn them away as something unimportant? Something came to my mind this week while doing my studies. As missionaries we consecrate our lives for 2 years to focus ourselves 100% on this work. I thought to myself of instances when growing up I decided not to do what I was told and to break the rules a bit (nothing serious but the small things) and it came to me: "As missionaries, when we fail to do all that we can (talk with everyone, ask referrals from everyone, etc.) we are possibly denying someone their right to having the full power of the Atonement in their lives." That hit me pretty hard, not because of anything I've done but along the lines of making me reflect "Am I doing everything I can to help these people come unto Christ?" In a talk titled "Good, Better, Best" by Elder Dallin H. Oaks, he quotes President Hinckley who said, "...Work at our responsibility as parents as if everything in life counted on it, because in fact everything in life does count on it." I thought to myself, "what if I change some words around here to make it say this."

"...Work at our responsibility as [members of the church or missionaries] as if everything in [eternal] life counted on it, because in fact everything in [our or someone else's eternal] life does count on it."

My dear friends, this is the work of the Lord and we must open our mouths to help bring those elect of God back into the fold. We have a very sacred opportunity to lift anothers burdens and in many ways be a guide for others to come back unto Christ. I have come to realize that, in the grand scheme of things, nothing else in this life matters besides sharing the gospel. May each of you commit to helping those you know come unto the Savior so they too can enjoy of the benefits that you now enjoy is my prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Hello Again!

 

Well, another week come and gone and talk about a busy one! As you all know I found out last Monday that I was being transferred from my area. Well, we had our transfer meeting on Tuesday and I was moved a little farther north (the next zone exactly north of us) to a little Rama called Monte Vista. From what I've seen from the last few days there is a TON of potential here but there are not nearly as many hispanics as they are a little farther south. No matter, we'll find them. :)

 

I was called to serve with my old trainer, Elder Bingham. It was an exciting time and I look forward to learning from him again. He has been in the ward for a transfer and has been working very hard to find and teach the people. As of now we have 3 baptismal dates set for a family and the potential of 7-10 more by the end of next week. So, things are pretty exciting up here :)

 

We had an interesting experience my first day in the area. We had just spent some time contacting in an apartment complex in the morning and were going to check a potential investigator in another set of apartments. As we got in the car to pull out, this little chihuahua came flying out of nowhere and wrapped it's leash around Elder Bingham's leg. A few moments later the owner (Hispanic :)) came up to us and thanked us for catching his dog. We talked for about 10 minutes and both he and his wife invited us to their home the following day at 11 am. We went by the next day and had and INCREDIBLE lesson with them. They come from Puebla, Mexico and are the nicest people in the world. They were really excited to have us in their home. They both work a lot but are willing to listen and the husband even said, "I need to ask for a day off....Sundays I need to go to church." So...we're pretty excited for them.

 

I can't begin to explain how incredible this work is. I love being a missionary. Sure it hasn't been the easiest thing on the face of the earth but you grow in so many incredible ways. I've come to appreciate my Savior more than ever before. We've met some pretty interesting people while contacting (especially this past week) that have really caused me to reflect on my beliefs. I am so grateful, as Nephi of old, for "Goodly Parents" who taught me while I was young. I know that this church is true and that it was restored by the Prophet Joseph Smith. The Book of Mormon is the word of God and will help any man come closer to him.

 

Well, my time is up for the week. I apologize if it seemed a little random but I hope you all enjoyed it none the less :). Have a great and safe week and until next post, "iQue Dios les bendiga!"

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

Hello again!

 

Another transfer in the books! I've completed my first transfer here in Encanto (Sur) but, I do have news. I found out this morning that I will be leaving this area after only 6 weeks of service. I've really come to love this place and the people that live here. Truly this area is sacred ground. I know that Heavenly Father is bringing people here to hear the gospel and it was such a special opportunity to experience it. I pray that with whatever my next assignment is I will be able to see our Heavenly Father's hand in the work.

 

This week was a very busy but productive week. We were blessed with the opportunity to set 2 more baptismal dates this week: one for this man named Gaspar (he's a character :)) and the other for a lady named Antonia (we found her tracting...Windows of Heaven find really). Gaspar may be moving this week but Antonia is looking to be really solid. It will be an exciting experience for her.

 

But, the biggest piece of news was the baptism we had this week. But, Saturday we had our baptism for Jose and Maria Vargas (the couple that we got married last week). President and Sister Beck attended and, holy cow, it was a beautiful service. There were a ton of people there, the talks were spot on, and the baptism was incredible. We had Obispo Chamizo do their baptisms. We also gave a little presentation on The Restoration and we had the opportunity to hear Jose and Maria bear their testimonies....I had to fight so hard to not start crying...their testimony has grown so much from the first time we visited with them and they've just overcome so many challenges to keep their date...they were supported by messengers on the other side to protect them from Satan....It was an incredible experience to teach them and to see them start their life as a disciple of Christ.

 

I've come to realize more and more the sacred opportunity it is to be a missionary...I love what I do and I wish everyone could have this opportunity. I remember listening to my dad's stories growing up of experiences he had while he was on his mission. It was because of those things he shared with me that made me excited to be a missionary myself. I have no regrets for the decision I have made....I have come to know of the deep love our Father in Heaven and our savior Jesus Christ have for each and every one of us. We are God's children and he sent us here to be happy, to obtain a body and to do those things necessary to return back and live with him to be eternally happy forever.

 

My friends, I know that this work is true. I would encourage you all to open your mouth and talk to your friends about the blessings that you have. I know that you too can experience the joy that I experience now as a missionary. And to those who aren't members of our faith, if you have interest go ahead and talk to the missionaries. Trust me, we don't bite :) I know that this message that we carry will bless you in more ways than you can imagine.

 

Well, my friends, I hope that you have a great and safe week. I love you all and are in my prayers. Until next week, "iQue Dios les bendiga!"

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

 

 

 

"Come Unto Christ": Jose and Maria Vargas the day of their baptism. I can't begin to explain the amount of love I have for this couple. They truly were 2 of Heavenly Fathers elect and I will be eternally grateful for the lessons that they taught me during my time as their missionary.

Hello again!

 

Talk about an interesting week. There were some definite eye openers but, as a whole, the week turned out fantastic. Here is the scoop!

 

First and foremost, I just want to bear my testimony of the power of member missionary work. We hit a wall a couple of weeks ago when we tracted for 8 hours and found 2 new investigators. Not only that, both of them dropped us the following week. Elder Miles and I had a very long and deep discussion of what our next step needed to be in order to change that trend and start finding more of Heavenly Fathers elect. We both felt impressed that the time of finding through tracting in our area was past and that it was time to start letting the members find for us. So, we made plans this week to visit certain members that we felt impressed would give us member referrals. We'll let the numbers show the results. We received 7 member referrals in the course of 5 days. With those member referrals now come 10 solid new potential or now new investigators for this week. We have high expectations for each one of them and we feel like a major baptismal harvest will be coming very soon in the Encanto 1ro Ward. My friends, I read a talk this past week by Elder E. Ray Bateman from the October 1998 General Conference titled "Pearls from the Sand." I would challenge each one of you to read it and see what you can do in your area to help those precious elect come unto Christ. I know that as you do this you will receive some of the sweetest blessings Heavenly Father has for us.

 

Also this week we had the opportunity to witness the marriage of 2 of our investigators. Jose and Maria Vargas have been investigators for about 5 weeks now and, wow, I have never met someone so prepared in my life. They read every assignment we give them, have kept every commitment we have given, and when we taught the Law of Chastity simply said, "Well, now we have a reason to get married...lets do it on Friday!" (This was on Wednesday.) So they did! They had family there, we took pictures, and right after we gave a church tour to them and their kids. It was a very spiritual experience for everyone. Their baptism will be this Saturday at 7:00. Both Elder Miles and I have a ton of love for this family and are looking forward to seeing them receive the blessings of baptism.

 

To close of the post for the week, on Tuesday Elder Miles and I had the opportunity to lead a Specialized Training Meeting with our zone. For those of you not aware, the MTC will start teaching a new simplified curriculum next may with a focus on 8 areas. These areas include things like "The Doctrine of Christ-the Missionary Purpose", "Receiving Revelation through the Book of Mormon", and "The Role of the Spirit in Conversion" just to name a few. In our mission we began an 8 month deployment process of this new curriculum to assure that we will be ready for the new missionaries when they come into the mission field. I tell you what, it's tough to put together a 3.5 hour training...To put it simply, we learned a ton on how to prepare...I bet we studied the doctrine of Christ for at least 30 hours over the last 2 weeks. But, when the training came we were sustained. The spirit was strong, the discussion was good, and everything turned out alright.

 

Well my friends, I'm out of time for this week. I hope that you all have a great week this week and that those who are going back to school have a great start to the year. Remember that you are always in my thoughts and prayers. I love you all and until next week, iQue Dios les bendiga!

 

Sincerely,

 

Elder Klemme

 

 

"Yes, that is a peacock": For some reason a ton of people have peacocks out here....I'm not really sure why...

 

 

"On the road to eternal progression": Jose and Maria the day of their marriage! Next step: BAPTISM!

 

 

"Not to mention...": Saturday I had the opportunity to attend the baptism of one of my former investigators in Montana del Sur. Edgar is going to be one strong member of the church. We found him street contacting one day and...wow, from the moment we met him we knew he was one of the elect. I look forward to seeing him again!

 

 

"Good Morning, Encanto!": I woke up this morning and looked out the window...this is what I saw. I thought you all would enjoy it too!

 

 

"Setup": This was our setup for the Specialized Training we gave on Tuesday. I never realized how long it took to get things set up like this...We were pretty impressed with it once we got it all setup. The filled baptismal font gave a nice spiritual touch to the meeting :)

Hello again!

 

To explain it simply, this week was a little bit of a harder missionary week. Don't get me wrong I'm not discouraged nor close to being so but there are just some week when you feel like you didn't really accomplish anything. BUT, when you do your numbers at the end of the week and think back of the things you accomplished you realize that you did have success, even though the numbers may not show it. The worth of a soul is great in the sight of our Heavenly Father.

 

We have come to discover that we have reached a cross road in regards to finding in our area. Elder Beames and Elder Crandall (the zone leaders that brought about the greatest culture change in our zone) basically tracted this place five or six times over (at least :)). Ever time we go to an area and ask people if they have talked to missionaries before they tell us "Yeah, they came by a few months ago! One was really tall and the other was really short." We respond with "Did one of those missionaries have the name of Elder Beames?" They respond with "BEANS! That's the one I remember. No I'm not really interested but thanks for stopping by again!" then they shut the door. We've come to realize that now is the time for the members to shine. We need to find through the members.

 

With all of our finding worries from the past few days, Elder Miles and I dedicated our whole Saturday to finding. Here's the excerpt from my journal:

 

"We had an interesting experience on Saturday. More or less a major testimony builder that Heavenly Father answers our prayers but sometimes we really need to work for them. We found a grand total of 1 new investigator but...well, just wait for the story. Elder Miles and I basically set up an all day finding day on Saturday. We set up a lot of potential appointments but put "tract the area" for our backups. We knew that if we were prompted to go to that area there must be a reason. Well, we didn't have a ton of luck in the morning. A semi-committed potential but nothing too promising. Well, after lunch we went to this area that I could tell hadn't been visited a ton. Apparently there is a lot of gang violence there (never thought those existed in Phoenix did ya :D) Well, when we got to the area I had this impression that there was someone on the street waiting to talk to us. I just felt it deep in my soul. So we said a prayer, went to go check on the guy we intended to visit but ended up tracting the street when he didn't answer his door. We knocked 2 houses when we came to this mexi-house with it's door open. When we started going up to the door the lady inside was a little surprised that we were coming to talk to her. Well, we talked to her for a while but before we left she said that she was watching this non-religious when she told us that for some reason the random thought came into her head of "when am I going to go back to church." At that moment she turned to see us walking up to her door. Pretty cool if you ask me."

 

I've come to realize the power of the statement that my trainer told me about 10 months ago. He said, "Heavenly Father has a list of people in heaven that he is prepared. He knows his sheep and he knows what ones are ready to hear the gospel. Our job is to do everything in our power to find them and bring them into the fold." Talk about a pretty powerful statement. It just so happens that my trainer is now an Assistant to the President. I've come to realize just how much those 2 transfers with him have changed my mission.

 

My friends, the mission is a powerful experience...tears come to my eyes as I reflect on the incredible experiences (and sometimes almost impossibly difficult obstacles) I've had. I have no intention of leaving behind what I've learned. This is the work of the Lord and it is my sacred privilege to share this message with everyone.

 

I hope that you all have a fantastic week. Know that you are loved by our Heavenly Father and that you are in my prayers. Remember "Keep trying to do your best, even when it's hard." Have a safe week and until next post, iQue Dios les bendiga!

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

Hello again!

 

So, I decided to do a bit of a different post setup this week. I know I don't send home pictures very often so, I figure I would repent of my ways and just send home pictures this week. I hope you all enjoy them :)

 

Also, as a note. I received some letters this past week that have mentioned sent birthday cards. Here is the truth: The only birthday card I received was from my parents a week before my birthday. Other than that, I didn't receive any birthday cards. So, if there are some of you waiting to receive a response letter back from the card you sent, send me a little note and I'll be sure to write you back. Sorry for any inconvenience!!

 

Okay, picture time :)

 

 

"Welcome to Encanto": This is a picture from our apartment window. Isn't it beautiful? I love tracting trailer parks. The people there seem much more interested in listening to you. And the cool part is, Encanto 1st (Sur) is full of them :)

 

 

"Rainin' Season": Arizona gets these crazy monsoons right in the middle of summer. We had our season this past week. It was a little difficult to tract but, we found some really cool people in what seemed to be the eye of the storm. So much for Satan trying to detour us. Apart from the blessing of finding new people the temperature was also a lot cooler as well. On Friday it was 77 degrees....It was freezing....

 

 

"Silver Lining": Another spectacular Arizona Sunset :)

 

 

"Kingdom of God": We were blessed to have another baptism this last Saturday. This lady's name is Rosa Gatica. Her son, Cris, was baptized about 4 weeks ago. She's gone through a lot in her lifetime but, I tell you what, she is downright incredible. She is a pretty timid lady but has a powerful testimony of the gospel. Her baptism was one of 9 baptisms we had in the zone on Saturday. All in all it was a very merry and white baptismal weekend :)

 

 

"All Creatures of our God and King": Heavenly Father loves all of his creations...Even the ugly ones :) This dog belongs to one of our recent converts and...I tell you what I laughed so hard when I saw this thing for the first time! It's a really lovable dog and all but, whew....it's ugly. Kinda reminds me of some of the other dogs we find in the streets...

 

Well, I hope you all enjoy the pictures. I know I did when I took them :). I hope that you all have a great week and until next Monday, iHasta Luego!

 

July 26, 2010

 Sorry about the delay!  Here are Andrew's last few emails.  I was out of town/extremely busy the past few weeks.  Enjoy!

¡Buenas tardes a todos!

Well another week down! Time just flies incredibly fast when you are busy. BUT I wouldn't have it any other way!!

This week was an INCREDIBLE week. I wish I could explain all that would happen but I just have time to hit the highlights

1-It's hot...I posted a picture of our temperature gauge. For all those who think that 96 degrees is hot I must politely disagree. At this temperature you feel like your skin is going to fry right off your arm. Thank goodness for SPF 50 sunscreen :)

2-Revelation is our key to success. We had a 4 day leadership training this past week on new curriculum that they will be teaching in the MTC starting May of next year. It basically takes out 8 KEY (I say key because they are key to having the spirit in your lesson) principles from Preach My Gospel and expands on the way to effectively use them. They sent all of the curriculum to the mission presidents throughout the world to start the transition process so that when next May rolls around they missions will be running on all 8 cylinders. President Beck took all the leadership for 4 days and gave us 24 hours worth of training on it. It was incredible. After the first day we began to see the difference in the way we teach. It was incredible to say the least. W are really excited to see the increase in baptismal success as the mission begins to implement the new things we've learned.

3-God sustains those who work hard. Even though we were out of our area for a MASSIVE chunk of time, Heavenly Father blessed us with some incredible experiences. We had no tracting time yet we still found 4 new investigators through the members, we only had our nights to work but we were able to fill them with member presents, and even though time was short we were able to set a baptismal date for this Saturday. It was such a  testimony to me to see that, if you have the desires to do all the Heavenly Father commands you to do, he will bless you with the things you need.

My friends, I know that this gospel is true. The miracles I see every day are a constant reminder and testimony builder that this is the Lord's work. As Joseph Smith stated in the Doctrine and Covenants, "Shall we not all go in such great a cause?" I know that this work is true, Jesus Christ is our Savior, and I am his representative called to preach the gospel here in the Arizona Phoenix Mission. I pray that each and every one of you have a great week. Have great, spiritual experiences and be safe. I love each and every one of you and until next week, iQue Dios les bendiga!

Elder Klemme

 

See #1

July 19, 2010

Hey everybody!!

 

Well, I don't have a lot of time to write this so it will to short. Hope you don't mind! :)

 

As everyone is aware I was transfered this past week. But what you all didn't know was that I was extended the call to be a new Zone Leader in the mission. I felt pretty overwhelmed and sad to leave my old area but I knew it was what Heavenly Father needed me to do.

 

Well, transfers came and I didn't even leave our Zone!! :) I'm actually serving only seven miles from my last area. My new companions name is Elder Miles and he is just awesome. I look up to him a lot. I'm now serving in the Encanto 1st Spanish ward and, I tell you what, we have seen some pretty incredible miracles. I wish I had more time to explain what happens but, it "sufficeth me to say" that I have really come to appreciate the power of obedience. I know this is the Lords work and he will do what he wants to do. What we need to do is put our will in line with his so we don't miss out on the things he will do. It has been an incredible week for sure.

 

Apart from transfers not a lot of things have changed. I still love the mission and cannot believe how incredible it is to be a missionary. There really isn't anything else like it in the whole world. I would encourage every worthy young man to do what I'm doing right now. You have no idea how much you will begin to change and grow. the miracles are incredible...the experience is difficult but fantastic!

 

Well, that is about all the time I have for this week. I love each and every one of you and I know this message is true. Have a great and safe week!

 

Sincerely,

 

Elder Klemme

July 12, 2010

Hey Everyone!

Well, here we are again at the end of another week. I didn't have any e-mails to respond to this week so I actually had some time to write the post. Some pretty interesting things happened that's for sure.

I guess to start off, I'll mention a little bit of the news I received today. To those who have been faithfully following my blog, you all know that I have been serving in Montana del Sur for seven transfers now. I started working in this area when I entered the mission field back in last September. Well, we received transfer news today and I will not be making Montana del Sur the home of transfer #8. I have been called to serve in another part of the Lord's APM vineyard to spread the gospel to those who are in need. I am sad to say goodbye to this ward and the people I have grown to love but I am very excited for what the future has to bring. I look forward to taking the knowledge I have gained from all my time down in South Phoenix and taking it elsewhere to help those in need.

Well, that was the biggest news I had to share but here is a rundown of the past week anyway. :)

Last week was crazy! I started off feeling a little sick Monday and Tuesday which made it a little hard to work to my full potential. It's a little hard to ride bikes when you feel like you are achy all over. But, just like many other instances in the past during my mission I was sustained by the hand of Heavenly Father. As I fought to get through the days I always had enough strength to push it for one more lessons until *bam* the end of the day was there. In truth, both Monday and Tuesday turned out to be our best days of the week.

Wednesday was Wednesday. Tracting, teaching, and loving the people.

Thursday posed a different set of challenges. I won't go into all the details but it will be enough to say that Elder Mortensen and I were called to exercise our sacred Priesthood authority to remove demons from a home. As crazy or radical as it sounds it's true. I have always wondered what it must be like to have to do something like that, to realize that you are the only one fighting against the very real power of Satan. After our experience on Thursday, one time is enough for me. We weren't in any serious or perilous danger but I can testify that I know that the influence of Satan is real. It was very much present when we went in and was very much gone when we left. An experience and testimony builder I'll never forget.

Friday was another day. Tracting, teaching, and loving the people.

Saturday was a great day. It started out a little more difficult than usual but it really picked up in the end. We had our 4th baptism of the transfer Saturday night. To those who remember Maria, the lady we found tracting in the dust storm, her 17 year old son Jesus was baptized this past Saturday. He showed up a little late because his soccer game went into extra time but every was very patient through it. We had an incredible turnout. There were members from the ward, the entire Young Men's Presidency, Investigators from at least 3 sets of missionaries...the room was just packed!! The service itself was great as well. The talks were perfect, the ordinance was....so powerful....All in all (I think I say this every time) it was probably the best baptismal service we have had. What was really special about the whole experience was the ability to see a mother and a son who have both gone through so much together accept the gospel of Christ together as well. I know that they will remain strong and inspiring members of the Church and Jesus has already started preparing to serve his own mission in a couple of years. I look forward to seeing him open up his mission call. :)

My friends, I want you all to know that I love you and that I know that this gospel is true. I have seen so many people just take ahold of the simple message we carry and allow it to change their lives completely. I have never had a greater joy in my life than that I've had when I see people enter the waters of baptism. This gospel is true, Jesus is the Christ and through our obedience we can return to live in the presence of God after this life. Have a fantastic week and until next time, iQue Dios les bendiga!

"Mother and Child": Maria and Jesus with a few of their teaching missionaries. It was such a sweet feeling to know that they are now on their way to eternal happiness together. All we have left to do is get her kids in Mexico here and baptized and then we'll REALLY be in business :)

"Bargain Shopping": YAY FOR DISCOUNTS!! Now we just have 96 trail mix fruit and nut granola bars...welcome to breakfast, lunch, dinner, noonday snack, afternoon snack, and midnight snack!! :D