Salutations Elder Williams,
I listened to a talk where the speaker referenced President Hinkley and how he said that the symbol of our church isn't the cross because we worship the living Christ and that correlates to the symbol of our church--- which is the people and how they live their lives. We are literally a living example of the church---like Paul said, we are the body of Christ.
I also listened to an outstanding BYU Devotional by Lawrence Walters on Citizenship. It was so powerful and he outlined specific things we could do as stewards of our nation to improve our culture and society. It was so inspiring and helpful to me. I feel very concerned that our people in the U.S. don't realize how vital, valuable, and essential freedom is. I've read too many books on Mao, Stalin, Hitler, etc., and the effects of evil government on a country. It decimates the population, destroys resources, religion, families, and the soul of man. I want to be part of the goodness that will bring about Zion. Brother Walters gave me hope and outlined things I can do to help build the kingdom of God. You'll have to read or listen to his talk when you get home.
I got part of the garden planted so I'm excited about that. I love to watch things grow. Blossoms are awakening all around the yard. It's a beautiful sight. I'm sure California is lovely also.
How is your area? Do you have a new mailing address? companion? What are your new responsibilities?
He is Risen! For this I'm forever grateful! Thank you for sharing the good news with our brothers and sisters in California.
Love you,
Mom
Dear Mom,
I had such a wonderful Easter. It was the Santa Rosa Stake Conference so I got to see a lot of my favorite people from the Bennett Valley Ward. It was a wonderful reunion.
Elder Acosta of the 70 spoke to us, and the thing that really stuck with me is moral authority. Gotta walk the walk if I am going to have an impact on any level. I'm grateful that I have been obedient on my mission. It has helped me not only have the Spirit, but also it helps me to lead. I can ask people to do certain things because I am doing them. It helps so much.
That is key because I am a zone leader now. I feel like this calling is mostly for me to learn something, but I am still excited that I have the chance to serve other missionaries and share with them the lessons I have learned from my experiences.
I have seen so many miracles here already in Shiloh Park. I ran into one of the investigators I had in Bennett Valley, Steve. He moved to Southern California when I taught him the first time, but he moved back and now lives in my area. I'm so excited to teach him again.
We also have a baptism for a girl named Audrey. She is 11, and her mom is a returning member. Audrey's sister and dad were baptized just before I came into the area. Things are going well here.
My new companions are Elder Waite and Elder Ashton. Elder Waite is going home in a couple of weeks to Colorado. He goes home before the transfer ends because he extended a month. I'm learning so much from him. Elder Ashton is from Highland and he is a good missionary too. I'm really lucky to have hardworking companions.
In a nutshell, my new responsibilities are to get numbers to report and love my missionaries. I go to more meetings, and I will get to work closer with President Alba. It is going to be a great experience for me
The ward is really elect. Even though I won't be here long, I know I will have some great connections. The people here are awesome.
My new mailing address is
5201 Old Redwood Highway #60
Santa Rosa, California 95403
I know that Jesus is the Risen Lord. One thing that struck me during Stake Conference is that families fulfill the Atonement. That's what it is all about. Also, the Atonement is an expression of God's faith in us. He knows we can be successful. That's why He sent Jesus Christ.
Love,
Elder Williams
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