Monday, October 7, 2013

Bom Dia Familia,

Mais uma semana! 

We weren´t transfered, so we´re happy about that, everyone in hour house will continue the same for now.

 I was shocked to hear about Beverly. I didn´t even know she was sick. I had sent her a letter, but I don´t know if it got there in time. 

Man, conference was awesome. We went to the stake center for the sessions. The sessions were live transmission, so we watch at 1 and 5. And we (missionaries) watch the priesthood session the next day at 6 am, because it goes to late into the night on Saturday. Members can watch on the internet, but a lot of them went to the stake center too. They had a room in English this time, so that was cool. President Pinho prefers that we watch it in our own language (me too). All of the talks were awesome. I don´t know if it´s because I´m on the mission, but I think I learned more at this one than any other conference. I felt the Spirit testify of all of the speakers. And I felt an especially strong confirmation when President Monson spoke. I love our Prophet. I learned so much. I took notes and I´ve set goals to apply the teachings in my life, one of those being to memorize the  Articles of Faith. Something so simple, why don´t I have them memorized? We should know the basic beleifs of our own church.

Did you like (or even notice) Ulisses Soares? He´s from São Paulo. He spoke in the first session about meekness and controlling our temper. It was really good. And the President of my Area gave the closing prayer of conference, Claudio R. M. Costa. Pretty cool.

Anyway, I was truly inspired. I am excited about my mission and excited about life! We are members of the church of the true living God. We need to share this knowledge with EVERYONE. I liked the talks about missionary work and member missionaries. Work with the missionaries and invite friends to hear the marvelous news of the gospel. All too often we selfishly keep the gospel to ourselves, because of fear, lack of time, or lack of faith. Invite EVERYONE, and at least give them the opportunity. 

I have a testimony that the one true path to happiness is holding firmly to the iron rod (word of God) and keeping His commandments for the rest of our lives.

Having put our hand to the plough, we can never look back. Luke 9:62.

I love you all and pray for you always.

Elder Barker