I am slowly but surely trying to catch up on my posts to the blog. As you can see from this latest post we are trying to figure out when we can talk to Jacob. I work on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day so it will be difficult to get a phone call. We are trying to work something out for Monday. I sure hope we can do it because I will be very sad if we can't. We all need to hear Jake's voice. Well here is the latest letter.
"Hey there everyone! I wonder why there is more interest in the Church, I hope it would be for the truthfulness of the Work and the reality of the Savior. If I could vote, I might just write in President Monson´s name... WHAT?! ERICA ON A MISSION? Everyone was talking about her ''special news'' and I was sure she was going to get married! What a shocker, but she is going to make an excellent missionary! That would be so neat if they were in the MTC together, I'm calling Mitchell to go to California and Erica to go to the Ukraine. Wow, I'm super excited! Well I really look forward to talking to you all and I think we'll have to do it on the day after Christmas. That would actually work best for me, probably around 6 or 7 at night. Well we had the mission conference this week and we went through the temple, I learned quite a bit again and it was easier going through in Spanish than it was one year ago... Well it's been up and down and all over this week but I really love you all and I wish you all a Merry Christmas!
Con amor,
Elder Butterfield
Friday, December 23, 2011
Week 67
Well here it is week 67 and we are fast approaching Christmas which means we will get a phone call from Jacob. It is amazing how fast the time goes. Here is Jake's latest letter.
"Hey there! Thanks for the letter, but I am in a hurry, our bus is going to leave soon and I need to be in Veracruz tonight to sign my visa tomorrow. Glad to hear that everything is good in Wisconsin, I miss it a little, and it is very true how fast the time is going by. I need to send my letter to Henrik, I think next week I will have time. So the branch is growing, the missionaries must be really getting to work over there, we also baptized a true convert couple in Gutierrez Zamora this past week, it is quite the story I should tell you. Hahaha, dad is still pretty sharp on the tennis, that is good news. We had an amazing, miraculous week, with three baptisms and blessing from on High. I wish I could tell you everything that happened, but the time is short. We have really started to find success here in Zamora, and we even had a baptism in the little branch of 40 active members. I do not have the cord to my camera, but I will be sure to send them next week. Well, we are going to the temple this week, and I am going to prepare myself spiritually for such an opportunity the serve in the House of the Lord. Well I thank you very much for the letter and especially for the package, I will also show you what I did with it next week. I am truly happy and full, thee mission has been very, very difficult, but I cannot imagine of a greater experience in life. I cannot wait to talk to you one of these coming days, I love you all and be sure to say hello to everyone back there, and if they ask how I am doing, tell them that I have never been happier. They will see the light in your eyes and they will be interested in the Gospel.
Love you all,
Elder Butterfield
"Hey there! Thanks for the letter, but I am in a hurry, our bus is going to leave soon and I need to be in Veracruz tonight to sign my visa tomorrow. Glad to hear that everything is good in Wisconsin, I miss it a little, and it is very true how fast the time is going by. I need to send my letter to Henrik, I think next week I will have time. So the branch is growing, the missionaries must be really getting to work over there, we also baptized a true convert couple in Gutierrez Zamora this past week, it is quite the story I should tell you. Hahaha, dad is still pretty sharp on the tennis, that is good news. We had an amazing, miraculous week, with three baptisms and blessing from on High. I wish I could tell you everything that happened, but the time is short. We have really started to find success here in Zamora, and we even had a baptism in the little branch of 40 active members. I do not have the cord to my camera, but I will be sure to send them next week. Well, we are going to the temple this week, and I am going to prepare myself spiritually for such an opportunity the serve in the House of the Lord. Well I thank you very much for the letter and especially for the package, I will also show you what I did with it next week. I am truly happy and full, thee mission has been very, very difficult, but I cannot imagine of a greater experience in life. I cannot wait to talk to you one of these coming days, I love you all and be sure to say hello to everyone back there, and if they ask how I am doing, tell them that I have never been happier. They will see the light in your eyes and they will be interested in the Gospel.
Love you all,
Elder Butterfield
Monday, December 5, 2011
Week 66
The weeks are ticking by and we will get to talk to Jacob in about 3 weeks. We are so looking forward to hearing his voice. I can't believe that in less than 9 months he will be home with us again. It amazes me with each email how he has grown and matured as a missionary. Here is his latest letter.
"Another email from this end too! The bug bites went away and now I'm just spraying myself down every night with Off that I brought out with me. It happens every once in awhile, but it depends where your at. Cool news about the Aggies, maybe they be able to escape their sinking conference one of these years. Wow, I went to a conference with a few other missionaries and they were talking about the Packer phenomonon. It's interesting how they kepp on winning, makes me prideful to be from WI. We'll see what day we can talk, I hope you enjoy your time in Wisconsin. I watched the devotional, I really enjoyed it, especially the new movie, it gave me chills haha. I actually got my Christmas package already and I've opened some very special items. I don't know where you got the idea from to match up Scriptures with the gifts, but I love it! Especially the one about the mouthwash. The pictures were lovely, and it's amazing to see how much the boys have grown. Stryder has really long curly hair and the whole family is Incredible! Don't worry about my birthday, I'm all set, thanks for the shirts also! The work is improving, my companion went to our other area this Sunday and here's a picture of the chapel, it's actually a super strong branch. Thanks so much for the support, just remember to let this Christmas season be a more meaningful one as we have heard from our leaders. I really don't know how you did it, but you all knew exactly what I needed! I love you all and thank the Lord that I've been born of goodly parents who have set me in the position I'm in. Love you all and I'll talk to you next week with much anticipation!
con amor,
Elder Butterfield
"Another email from this end too! The bug bites went away and now I'm just spraying myself down every night with Off that I brought out with me. It happens every once in awhile, but it depends where your at. Cool news about the Aggies, maybe they be able to escape their sinking conference one of these years. Wow, I went to a conference with a few other missionaries and they were talking about the Packer phenomonon. It's interesting how they kepp on winning, makes me prideful to be from WI. We'll see what day we can talk, I hope you enjoy your time in Wisconsin. I watched the devotional, I really enjoyed it, especially the new movie, it gave me chills haha. I actually got my Christmas package already and I've opened some very special items. I don't know where you got the idea from to match up Scriptures with the gifts, but I love it! Especially the one about the mouthwash. The pictures were lovely, and it's amazing to see how much the boys have grown. Stryder has really long curly hair and the whole family is Incredible! Don't worry about my birthday, I'm all set, thanks for the shirts also! The work is improving, my companion went to our other area this Sunday and here's a picture of the chapel, it's actually a super strong branch. Thanks so much for the support, just remember to let this Christmas season be a more meaningful one as we have heard from our leaders. I really don't know how you did it, but you all knew exactly what I needed! I love you all and thank the Lord that I've been born of goodly parents who have set me in the position I'm in. Love you all and I'll talk to you next week with much anticipation!
con amor,
Elder Butterfield
Week 65
Well I had to wait a whole week to find out what those terrible looking bites that were on his arm. I am not sure if I feel better now that I have found out or worse. Well here is his latest letter explaining what those mysterious bites were.
"Hey there! Yes, those are bed bugs or mosquitos, but they've calmed down because of the chilly weather here. I put some cream on it, and it went down pretty well. Well ya Jenessa has returned to the frozen tundra, and it's once again nice and calm in Oklahoma. I hope they have a good time there and be sure to wish her a happy birthday!!! Good new all around in the sports world. Thanksgiving doesn't really exist down here, but it's alright. I sent grandma a picture of ''mole'' a common dish down here. Things are going well, but we're having trouble finding people to teach, this week should be better. My companion has 19 months in mission and we teach as good as ever I feel. I can call later in the evening or another day, we'll see as we get closer. Well, I love you all, talk to you next week!
-Elder Butterfield
"Hey there! Yes, those are bed bugs or mosquitos, but they've calmed down because of the chilly weather here. I put some cream on it, and it went down pretty well. Well ya Jenessa has returned to the frozen tundra, and it's once again nice and calm in Oklahoma. I hope they have a good time there and be sure to wish her a happy birthday!!! Good new all around in the sports world. Thanksgiving doesn't really exist down here, but it's alright. I sent grandma a picture of ''mole'' a common dish down here. Things are going well, but we're having trouble finding people to teach, this week should be better. My companion has 19 months in mission and we teach as good as ever I feel. I can call later in the evening or another day, we'll see as we get closer. Well, I love you all, talk to you next week!
-Elder Butterfield
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Week 64
Well this week Jacob included a picture with his letter and I must say I am a little concerned about it even though he told me to not be alarmed. I now must wait until next week to hear what is wrong with his arm. Well here is his latest letter and a picture.
"Hey there! I'm sending you a picture, but don't get startled. Let's go Pack and sounds like the Aggies are off to a good start, thanks for the updates. Thanksgiving will be a little bit more relaxed it seems, but Friday will be pretty crazy. Well, our week was pretty hectic, one missionary missed the bus to go to Veracruz at 2 in the morning, so I had to wait by myself while another priesthood holder came to my rescue, it's a pretty long story, but everything ended up with me losing a lot of sleep, haha. Well, my new companion finally came up, my old one left for Veracruz (the city) in place of my new companion. Elder Gunther is my new companion, he's from American Fork and we're pretty cool together. He ran the Top of Utah marathon when I volunteered for it. We're talking to a lot of people and everyone wants to talk to us. It's kind of weird talking English again and I think I've lost a lot. Well, we have some solid investigators, we just need to get them to Church and then to the font so they can get to the temple on their own. Well, thanks for the letter and I hope you enjoy the picture. Love you all and I'll be waiting to hear from you next week.
-Elder Butterfield
Pries
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"Hey there! I'm sending you a picture, but don't get startled. Let's go Pack and sounds like the Aggies are off to a good start, thanks for the updates. Thanksgiving will be a little bit more relaxed it seems, but Friday will be pretty crazy. Well, our week was pretty hectic, one missionary missed the bus to go to Veracruz at 2 in the morning, so I had to wait by myself while another priesthood holder came to my rescue, it's a pretty long story, but everything ended up with me losing a lot of sleep, haha. Well, my new companion finally came up, my old one left for Veracruz (the city) in place of my new companion. Elder Gunther is my new companion, he's from American Fork and we're pretty cool together. He ran the Top of Utah marathon when I volunteered for it. We're talking to a lot of people and everyone wants to talk to us. It's kind of weird talking English again and I think I've lost a lot. Well, we have some solid investigators, we just need to get them to Church and then to the font so they can get to the temple on their own. Well, thanks for the letter and I hope you enjoy the picture. Love you all and I'll be waiting to hear from you next week.
-Elder Butterfield
Pries
t
Week 63
Well this last week we had the opportunity of traveling to St. George to host a surprise 80th birthday party for Grandpa JR. We had such a nice time and I think he enjoyed himself too. We missed Jacob and Lesley and Keith and the boys. I can't believe how fast the weeks are ticking by and before long Jacob will be here with us again. I know he is where he should be at this time in his life and he is making a difference for so many people. Here is his latest letter.
"Oh how I wish I was part of the shinanigans for grampa's birthday party. I must admit, it was a pretty well pulled off surprise and I'm sure grampa got emotional when he saw you all there. Well sounds like a good week, I wrote Mikkal and I'll be waiting grandma's letter next week. I think we'll have some time together, but it will be after Mitch serves his mission in Oakland, haha. Those are my Aggies, if nothing else, we can win in basketball, maybe this is the year... Our week was very interesting. We have a few investigators that have been attending Church regularly, but are still unsure about getting baptized. We're going to see what happens with them this week and we're going to be working hard. My companion, Elder Salas, is being changed to another area and I'll be with an American companion, Elder Gunther. It's going to be a great time I believe and we're going to work super hard to serve the Lord. Things are looking up and I'm excited for these coming changes. Well thanks a lot for the letter, I'm really happy for everyone and especially grampa. It's going to be a really short 10 months!
-Elder Butterfield
"Oh how I wish I was part of the shinanigans for grampa's birthday party. I must admit, it was a pretty well pulled off surprise and I'm sure grampa got emotional when he saw you all there. Well sounds like a good week, I wrote Mikkal and I'll be waiting grandma's letter next week. I think we'll have some time together, but it will be after Mitch serves his mission in Oakland, haha. Those are my Aggies, if nothing else, we can win in basketball, maybe this is the year... Our week was very interesting. We have a few investigators that have been attending Church regularly, but are still unsure about getting baptized. We're going to see what happens with them this week and we're going to be working hard. My companion, Elder Salas, is being changed to another area and I'll be with an American companion, Elder Gunther. It's going to be a great time I believe and we're going to work super hard to serve the Lord. Things are looking up and I'm excited for these coming changes. Well thanks a lot for the letter, I'm really happy for everyone and especially grampa. It's going to be a really short 10 months!
-Elder Butterfield
Monday, November 7, 2011
Week 62
Week 62 and I am so amazed at how quickly the weeks are flying by. Jacob continues to learn and grow and we receive so much inspiration from his weekly letters. Here is the latest.
"Hey there! I didn't realize that Oklahoma got earthquakes either... That's pretty interesting, well it was a great week we had. We had a baptismal service of two young children, a 9 year-old girl and a 8-year old boy. The service was right after church and a lot of people showed up. We've been receiving a lot of support from the members down here and the ward is pretty strong. I went on divisions with the Zone Leaders and they went well, one is from Riverton and knows my companion from the MTC. We had a really special mission conference and I received a letter from Henrik. Well we're going to work super hard this week to fill our tank of investigators for the coming week. We have changes next week, but I think we're staying together. Well thanks for the letter and I bet the nephews are getting pretty big. I'm sure it was nice to see them. Be sure to wish grampa a happy 80th birthday for me. Love you all and I can't wait to hear about it all next week!
-Elder Butterfield
"Hey there! I didn't realize that Oklahoma got earthquakes either... That's pretty interesting, well it was a great week we had. We had a baptismal service of two young children, a 9 year-old girl and a 8-year old boy. The service was right after church and a lot of people showed up. We've been receiving a lot of support from the members down here and the ward is pretty strong. I went on divisions with the Zone Leaders and they went well, one is from Riverton and knows my companion from the MTC. We had a really special mission conference and I received a letter from Henrik. Well we're going to work super hard this week to fill our tank of investigators for the coming week. We have changes next week, but I think we're staying together. Well thanks for the letter and I bet the nephews are getting pretty big. I'm sure it was nice to see them. Be sure to wish grampa a happy 80th birthday for me. Love you all and I can't wait to hear about it all next week!
-Elder Butterfield
Week 61
Here is is week 61 and it is one of Jacob's favorite holidays. He loves Halloween. It doesn't seem possible that this is his second halloween being gone. The time goes by so quickly. Well here is his latest letter.
"Another week. It's been a good week, and now it's Halloween, haha. It's not that big down here, but everyone is making bread to offer they're deceased loved ones for the Day of the Dead (it's a tradition). By the way, I forgot to wish you happy birthday, so... HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I hope that makes up for it, haha. I'm doing alright with everything, and we can baptize 3 people this week! I'm thankful because all of the members have been helping us out. We haven't heard anything about any hurricane, it hasn't even rained here once. The work is going well, and there are a lot of interesting changes being made. I like how we don't teach lessons down here, we just teach God's children. Things are improving but we need to get to work if we're to baptize every week. I'm working on charity and Christlike Attributes, if you get a chance, take a look at a copy of Preach My Gospel, you'll be amazed. Well, I love you all, and I'm loving it here in the mission. Thanks for all of your prayers and support. Talk to you in a week!
-Elder Butterfield
"Another week. It's been a good week, and now it's Halloween, haha. It's not that big down here, but everyone is making bread to offer they're deceased loved ones for the Day of the Dead (it's a tradition). By the way, I forgot to wish you happy birthday, so... HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I hope that makes up for it, haha. I'm doing alright with everything, and we can baptize 3 people this week! I'm thankful because all of the members have been helping us out. We haven't heard anything about any hurricane, it hasn't even rained here once. The work is going well, and there are a lot of interesting changes being made. I like how we don't teach lessons down here, we just teach God's children. Things are improving but we need to get to work if we're to baptize every week. I'm working on charity and Christlike Attributes, if you get a chance, take a look at a copy of Preach My Gospel, you'll be amazed. Well, I love you all, and I'm loving it here in the mission. Thanks for all of your prayers and support. Talk to you in a week!
-Elder Butterfield
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Week 60
Well here it is 60 weeks. This time of the year is Jacob's favorite. He really likes Halloween and went all out. We have been busy decorating our little balcony here in Tulsa for a contest and couldn't help but think how proud Jake would be of us getting so into this decorating. Well the weeks seem to pass by quickly. We were very glad to hear that Jacob is feeling better. Here is his latest letter.
"Hey there! Thanks a lot for the letter. I'm feeling much better this week, now that I've taken my medication for the past week. I did another baptismal interview this past week, the man was pretty old and very repententive. You're never too old to go serve in the temple, that's one thing I'm excited to do in about two months when we have the Christmas Conference in the temple. Also, one of the converts from my first area will be going to the temple in January. It's truly a blessing. Well I love the Work I'm in, it's really demanding but 10 times more rewarding. No, a 100000000 times more rewarding. I love the Lord and I thank my Heavenly Father for all He's done for us and all He will do for us. I thank Him for you all back there and what you do for us down here. I love you and I love Him, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
-Elder Butterfield
"Hey there! Thanks a lot for the letter. I'm feeling much better this week, now that I've taken my medication for the past week. I did another baptismal interview this past week, the man was pretty old and very repententive. You're never too old to go serve in the temple, that's one thing I'm excited to do in about two months when we have the Christmas Conference in the temple. Also, one of the converts from my first area will be going to the temple in January. It's truly a blessing. Well I love the Work I'm in, it's really demanding but 10 times more rewarding. No, a 100000000 times more rewarding. I love the Lord and I thank my Heavenly Father for all He's done for us and all He will do for us. I thank Him for you all back there and what you do for us down here. I love you and I love Him, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
-Elder Butterfield
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Week 59
Well here another week has gone by and we are at week 59. We are quite concerned about Jacob's health right now. He has been under the weather for a few weeks now. I am sure he is not telling us the full truth but he claims he is feeling a little better. Here is his latest letter along with a picture.
"Hey there! What a great day! Haha, I went to see the doctor today,so it seems like I have an infection. I'm going to take an antibiotic to get rid of the infection. Haha, everything is slowly disappearing from my wardrobe as a missionary... But thanks for caring so much and helping me out. The area was tough this week, but the new members are helping out a lot. I had my first baptismal interviews this past week. It was a neat experience to see the testimonies of these people that are about to make their first covenant with their Heavenly Father. We had a nice baptismal service of a mom of various members that has investigated the Church for a few months. The picture is included in this letter. Well thanks a lot for writing me, I wouldn't mind heading back to St. George in 11 months and feeling the intense dry heat over there. Well, thanks for the letters, the prayers and the examples. I can truly testify of the Gospel of Jesus Christ because I've seen lives without it. Nothing can bring happiness like the Gospel. Well I love you all too, let me know how the rest of the family is doing this week. I haven't heard from Lesley and Keith for ages.
With love,
Elder Butterfield
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Week 58
Well it has been a long week not really knowing what happened with Jacob. We were very relieved when we got this email and he said he was feeling better. I know he doesn't tell us the real story but at least I know he is a little better. Here is his latest letter.
"Hey there! Don't worry, I'm totally fine, they aren't sure what I had, but I'll tell you the story. I was watching the last session of Conference and I had a headache, I start shivering and feeling cold. I told my companion and my District Leader gave me a blessing, I don't know what happened, I just felt really cold. The Zone Leaders showed up and we went to the hospital with another missionary. The doctor only saw me for a couple a minutes and asked me a few questions. She suspected that I had dengue, but they were going to do a blood test the next day. I returned home and slept all day Monday until I had to pack and go to the Zone Leaders' house to wait for the bus the next day. When I got up, I felt fine and I wasn't sick anymore, just with a little diarrhea. I'm here in my new area and it's a really neat town. We also have part of the beach in our area, I wouldn't mind heading out there for a baptismal service. My companion is Elder Salas from Peru, he's got a little more time than me in the mission and has been in this area from 4 months. There's a few army guards that roam around the city, but it's pretty calm around here. The problem with the gangs is located more north around Monterrey, Reynosa, and the state of Chihuahua. It's truly a war and the stories are very depressing of violence. Down here, it's safer and the ''bad guys'' usually don't have anything to do with the Church, much less with the missionaries. If one stays out of their business, they usually won't do anything. As for other news, well I think I'm good on material things. I enjoy the little treats you include in the packages, but don't worry about sending anything special. I'm going to buy some pants today, and maybe a shirt, but it shouldn't be very much, I still have sufficient money left over"
Elder Butterfield
"Hey there! Don't worry, I'm totally fine, they aren't sure what I had, but I'll tell you the story. I was watching the last session of Conference and I had a headache, I start shivering and feeling cold. I told my companion and my District Leader gave me a blessing, I don't know what happened, I just felt really cold. The Zone Leaders showed up and we went to the hospital with another missionary. The doctor only saw me for a couple a minutes and asked me a few questions. She suspected that I had dengue, but they were going to do a blood test the next day. I returned home and slept all day Monday until I had to pack and go to the Zone Leaders' house to wait for the bus the next day. When I got up, I felt fine and I wasn't sick anymore, just with a little diarrhea. I'm here in my new area and it's a really neat town. We also have part of the beach in our area, I wouldn't mind heading out there for a baptismal service. My companion is Elder Salas from Peru, he's got a little more time than me in the mission and has been in this area from 4 months. There's a few army guards that roam around the city, but it's pretty calm around here. The problem with the gangs is located more north around Monterrey, Reynosa, and the state of Chihuahua. It's truly a war and the stories are very depressing of violence. Down here, it's safer and the ''bad guys'' usually don't have anything to do with the Church, much less with the missionaries. If one stays out of their business, they usually won't do anything. As for other news, well I think I'm good on material things. I enjoy the little treats you include in the packages, but don't worry about sending anything special. I'm going to buy some pants today, and maybe a shirt, but it shouldn't be very much, I still have sufficient money left over"
Elder Butterfield
Monday, October 3, 2011
Week 57
Well here it is week 57 and this is not an email I liked reading because he briefly mentions going to the hospital. Not something a mother likes to read. I sure hope he gives me some more information.
Here is his latest letter.
"ey there! Thanks for the letter, lots of great news has come my way. How great you could finish, don't worry about times, maybe next year you can run it with more experience. Was it as bad as Madison? Yikes, my Aggies just need to learn how to close it out I guess. I watched all of Conference, we had the first two sessions in our chapel and then the other ones in the Stake Center. We brought a lot of people to watch Conference and they enjoyed it. I wouldn't mind getting married in the St. George temple either, I'm sure it was a beautiful service. Well, that means that grampa will be able to attend my wedding, what a great blessing. As for me right now, I'm feeling pretty sick, I had to go to the hospital yesterday, and I slept for ten hours last night. Today is my last day in Tlapacoyan, because tomorrow I'll be headed to a new city called Gutierrez Zamora with another companion from Peru named Elder Salas. I will be a District Leader over one other companionship. I really had a wonderful time here in Tlapacoyan and it was a growing experience. Well, I love you all and thanks for writing me. I hope everything goes well this week for you all, and I'll be waiting your next letter!
-Elder Butterfield
Here is his latest letter.
"ey there! Thanks for the letter, lots of great news has come my way. How great you could finish, don't worry about times, maybe next year you can run it with more experience. Was it as bad as Madison? Yikes, my Aggies just need to learn how to close it out I guess. I watched all of Conference, we had the first two sessions in our chapel and then the other ones in the Stake Center. We brought a lot of people to watch Conference and they enjoyed it. I wouldn't mind getting married in the St. George temple either, I'm sure it was a beautiful service. Well, that means that grampa will be able to attend my wedding, what a great blessing. As for me right now, I'm feeling pretty sick, I had to go to the hospital yesterday, and I slept for ten hours last night. Today is my last day in Tlapacoyan, because tomorrow I'll be headed to a new city called Gutierrez Zamora with another companion from Peru named Elder Salas. I will be a District Leader over one other companionship. I really had a wonderful time here in Tlapacoyan and it was a growing experience. Well, I love you all and thanks for writing me. I hope everything goes well this week for you all, and I'll be waiting your next letter!
-Elder Butterfield
Week 56
We are getting ready to head to St. George and I sure wish Jake was running with me. We are keeping Jake updated on his Aggies and a few things that are happening in the world.
"ey there everybody! Thanks for the letter! Things are going great here in Tlapacoyan, we just had our first baptismal service in the new chapel with a woman who has struggled to get to church for two months. I'm excited to hear about the sealing of grampa and LuAnne, it's going to be a really busy time out there, but you're all going to enjoy it. If I had my medal right now, I think I would still be wearing it, well if it's mom's tenth year coming up, she'll be in for life, I don't know if I'll be up to it in a year, maybe from a spectator's view. I don't believe the Browns are winning, but if the Cougs aren't someone has to. Who is Perry? Well, I hope Romney wins it, if America is ready for it. I'll cast him my vote even if he's not the candidate, hahaha. The new President is great, we're getting excited for some big goals in the mission. The Church has to keep on growing and here just about all of the older members are converts. There's nothing big with the gangs down here. They don't do much unless you're in with them and try to leave. Well, pretty neat that you've got a new calling, but I bet it's something new for you. Haha, I wish you could send me a Jamba Juice, maybe I'll just wait until I get home. Well thanks for the letter, I'm about up on my time truth be told. I'm glad to hear everthing is going great with you all. Tell grampa and LuAnne that I love them and I can see how our Heavenly Father prolongs our time to give us the chance to change. Well I love you all and I hope you have an excellent time listening to General Conference!
-Elder Butterfield
"ey there everybody! Thanks for the letter! Things are going great here in Tlapacoyan, we just had our first baptismal service in the new chapel with a woman who has struggled to get to church for two months. I'm excited to hear about the sealing of grampa and LuAnne, it's going to be a really busy time out there, but you're all going to enjoy it. If I had my medal right now, I think I would still be wearing it, well if it's mom's tenth year coming up, she'll be in for life, I don't know if I'll be up to it in a year, maybe from a spectator's view. I don't believe the Browns are winning, but if the Cougs aren't someone has to. Who is Perry? Well, I hope Romney wins it, if America is ready for it. I'll cast him my vote even if he's not the candidate, hahaha. The new President is great, we're getting excited for some big goals in the mission. The Church has to keep on growing and here just about all of the older members are converts. There's nothing big with the gangs down here. They don't do much unless you're in with them and try to leave. Well, pretty neat that you've got a new calling, but I bet it's something new for you. Haha, I wish you could send me a Jamba Juice, maybe I'll just wait until I get home. Well thanks for the letter, I'm about up on my time truth be told. I'm glad to hear everthing is going great with you all. Tell grampa and LuAnne that I love them and I can see how our Heavenly Father prolongs our time to give us the chance to change. Well I love you all and I hope you have an excellent time listening to General Conference!
-Elder Butterfield
Week 55
Here is Jacob's latest letter.
"Hey there! How goes it back there?! What is this, the gathering of the Butterfield family in Oklahoma? Haha, well thanks for updating me on the Cougs, I hope Travis can keep his sprits up and say, ''there's always next year.'' We'll see if my Aggies can pull off two years straight on BYU, I think it can be done. For a moment I thought you were in Oregon, talking about the big soccer tournament, but thanks for informing me about the cool happenings up there in OK. Keep me posted on your trip to St. George, I'm pretty excited to hear how everything turns out. That's great for Keith and Lesley, I haven't heard from them in awhile, but I'm sure he'll be getting more interviews. Mikkal and Ben are still jetsetting, but they still haven't visited Veracruz... We'll the chapel is all set here, they have mutual and other activities. In fact, one of our investigators is directing a theater performance that they're going to do is a few weeks. His name is Silvino, he would have been baptized, but he's waiting until his mom arrives from the US so that she can see it too. Don't worry about my skin, I put on sunscreen everyday, and if I didn't it would much worse. I really think it was the photo that was left me looking funny. The week was productive and we have some truly great converts here. There's always problems and hardships, but nothing compares to the blessings of the mission. Something I've really liked is how we teach with conviction and not a set lesson plan. Well, I love you all back there, I'll try to take more pictures and keep you updated on the developments of the mission!"
"Hey there! How goes it back there?! What is this, the gathering of the Butterfield family in Oklahoma? Haha, well thanks for updating me on the Cougs, I hope Travis can keep his sprits up and say, ''there's always next year.'' We'll see if my Aggies can pull off two years straight on BYU, I think it can be done. For a moment I thought you were in Oregon, talking about the big soccer tournament, but thanks for informing me about the cool happenings up there in OK. Keep me posted on your trip to St. George, I'm pretty excited to hear how everything turns out. That's great for Keith and Lesley, I haven't heard from them in awhile, but I'm sure he'll be getting more interviews. Mikkal and Ben are still jetsetting, but they still haven't visited Veracruz... We'll the chapel is all set here, they have mutual and other activities. In fact, one of our investigators is directing a theater performance that they're going to do is a few weeks. His name is Silvino, he would have been baptized, but he's waiting until his mom arrives from the US so that she can see it too. Don't worry about my skin, I put on sunscreen everyday, and if I didn't it would much worse. I really think it was the photo that was left me looking funny. The week was productive and we have some truly great converts here. There's always problems and hardships, but nothing compares to the blessings of the mission. Something I've really liked is how we teach with conviction and not a set lesson plan. Well, I love you all back there, I'll try to take more pictures and keep you updated on the developments of the mission!"
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Week 54
Well here it is week 54 and this week Jacob sent a picture. I am so worried about his skin. When you look at the picture notice how red his face is and his hands compared to his feet. I sure hope he is wearing his sunscreen.
"Hey there everybody! Well, we didn't have much time to think about the tradegy that occured 10 years ago, but there was no mention of it here. No, we were busy in the first Stake Conference of this recently split stake. President Treviño and his wife came out to speak along with the President of the Veracruz Temple and his lovely wife (they're both Americans). We had a little scare with the hurricane, but nothing happened and we were able to have a wonderful baptismal service of 4 people from our Ward! All were very chosen and prepared before we ever talked with them and the baptisms were very special. I got to baptize the larger woman, named Maria de Jesus, who was very afraid of water, but she jumped in the font and outran her nerves. That's so wonderful that grampa will be entering the temple in such short time, how great are the blessings of the Gospel. I can't imagine how much the Lord has blessed us for our faithfulness. Elder Holland truly has a presence, I will share with you all some of his words in a talk that changed my mission when I get home. I know this Work is true and that Jesus Christ lives. I know that His Church is upon the earth right now with all the power and ordinances to save a soul in the Kingdom of God. I love you all and I can't thank you enough for the support and blessings you have been for me this past year. I hope this letter can be a strength to you all as well as the other 52 letters I write you in these coming weeks!
-Elder Butterfield
"Hey there everybody! Well, we didn't have much time to think about the tradegy that occured 10 years ago, but there was no mention of it here. No, we were busy in the first Stake Conference of this recently split stake. President Treviño and his wife came out to speak along with the President of the Veracruz Temple and his lovely wife (they're both Americans). We had a little scare with the hurricane, but nothing happened and we were able to have a wonderful baptismal service of 4 people from our Ward! All were very chosen and prepared before we ever talked with them and the baptisms were very special. I got to baptize the larger woman, named Maria de Jesus, who was very afraid of water, but she jumped in the font and outran her nerves. That's so wonderful that grampa will be entering the temple in such short time, how great are the blessings of the Gospel. I can't imagine how much the Lord has blessed us for our faithfulness. Elder Holland truly has a presence, I will share with you all some of his words in a talk that changed my mission when I get home. I know this Work is true and that Jesus Christ lives. I know that His Church is upon the earth right now with all the power and ordinances to save a soul in the Kingdom of God. I love you all and I can't thank you enough for the support and blessings you have been for me this past year. I hope this letter can be a strength to you all as well as the other 52 letters I write you in these coming weeks!
-Elder Butterfield
Week 53
Well we are officially one year in and counting the next 12 months. Not a lot has happened this week so I will get right to the letter from Jacob.
"Hey there family! Well, yep, I've passed the hump, but not a whole lot has changed. I mentioned to grandma that I don't remember much about home, and it's really all focus on the mission. Thanks for the update, you got my heart up when you mentioned my Aggies, haha, we'll have to see what happens this year. Don't worry about updating me though, just tell me how the family is more importantly. I got my garments today in fact, and I also got another letter from my buddy in Japan (two weeks ago). This week ended up being pretty special because of the opening of our chapel. I'll tell you all that it's beautiful and very big. I'll send pictures next week, but we had a neat activity in which we met a lot of people from all over the city and now we're ready to harvest. We have some excellent, excellent investigators this week and are finding more every day it seems. I received some very special new regarding one of my first converts, Carmen. She's almost prepared to enter the temple this December and my trainer and I are invited to attend the sealing of her and her husband (who died a few years ago) for time and all eternity. There is no greater joy I've felt then describing this opportunity right now. This special sister has adopted the fullness of the Gospel into her life and is now in preparation for the blessings and convenants of a higher nature. Oh how I wish I could see all of my converts enter the House of the Lord to redeem their ancestors and to make these sacred convenants with God. I know I'm where I should be and I know that it's going to cost me a lot this next year, but I know the blessings are great that we will receive. Thanks for all your support in ever aspect of my mission, I couldn't thank you all enough for putting me in this position and sustaining me every day. I love you all and I know this next year will fly by and we will see each other again in a very short time!
-Elder Jacob Blake Butterfield
p.s. Thanks for the beef jerky
"Hey there family! Well, yep, I've passed the hump, but not a whole lot has changed. I mentioned to grandma that I don't remember much about home, and it's really all focus on the mission. Thanks for the update, you got my heart up when you mentioned my Aggies, haha, we'll have to see what happens this year. Don't worry about updating me though, just tell me how the family is more importantly. I got my garments today in fact, and I also got another letter from my buddy in Japan (two weeks ago). This week ended up being pretty special because of the opening of our chapel. I'll tell you all that it's beautiful and very big. I'll send pictures next week, but we had a neat activity in which we met a lot of people from all over the city and now we're ready to harvest. We have some excellent, excellent investigators this week and are finding more every day it seems. I received some very special new regarding one of my first converts, Carmen. She's almost prepared to enter the temple this December and my trainer and I are invited to attend the sealing of her and her husband (who died a few years ago) for time and all eternity. There is no greater joy I've felt then describing this opportunity right now. This special sister has adopted the fullness of the Gospel into her life and is now in preparation for the blessings and convenants of a higher nature. Oh how I wish I could see all of my converts enter the House of the Lord to redeem their ancestors and to make these sacred convenants with God. I know I'm where I should be and I know that it's going to cost me a lot this next year, but I know the blessings are great that we will receive. Thanks for all your support in ever aspect of my mission, I couldn't thank you all enough for putting me in this position and sustaining me every day. I love you all and I know this next year will fly by and we will see each other again in a very short time!
-Elder Jacob Blake Butterfield
p.s. Thanks for the beef jerky
Friday, September 16, 2011
Week 52
Well it is official. Jacob has now been out 1 full year. It has gone by fast in some respects but in some way it seems like it has been forever. I sure hope this next year goes as fast as the first one. I can't wait to have him back home and entertaining us with his fun personality. Here is his latest letter.
"Hey there family! Sounds like everything is going great back there in OK, but 5 days straight of work would have to tire out even mom. Ya, the time really flies when you are just getting settled in. Haha, oh, what I would give for some fresh baked cookies, out here no one bakes, but I must admit the banana's foster I made last week was pretty delectable... Let's go Cougers, well maybe not, we'll see how they do before i just on the bandwagon. I would love to read his book, I found a little biography written by Elder Holland about our beloved prophet in a Liahona we had in the house. There are countless spiritual experiences that President Monson has lived, that all should hearken to his counsel.Well you can eat at Taco Bell while one of our investigators volunteered to feed us this special day. It really goes by fast, but there's not a whole lot of time left. I'm working for my goal, but trying to improve in every way. Well, we've been greatly blessed here and we have a really neat district, things are going great. I'll probably have another 6 weeks here and then I'm off to another part of the mission! Well, I love you all and I thank you for your support and prayers. Keep studying the Scriptures and living in peace with others. I know I'm where I should be and that Heavenly Father knows what he's doing. I'll talk to you in one week!
-Elder Butterfield
"Hey there family! Sounds like everything is going great back there in OK, but 5 days straight of work would have to tire out even mom. Ya, the time really flies when you are just getting settled in. Haha, oh, what I would give for some fresh baked cookies, out here no one bakes, but I must admit the banana's foster I made last week was pretty delectable... Let's go Cougers, well maybe not, we'll see how they do before i just on the bandwagon. I would love to read his book, I found a little biography written by Elder Holland about our beloved prophet in a Liahona we had in the house. There are countless spiritual experiences that President Monson has lived, that all should hearken to his counsel.Well you can eat at Taco Bell while one of our investigators volunteered to feed us this special day. It really goes by fast, but there's not a whole lot of time left. I'm working for my goal, but trying to improve in every way. Well, we've been greatly blessed here and we have a really neat district, things are going great. I'll probably have another 6 weeks here and then I'm off to another part of the mission! Well, I love you all and I thank you for your support and prayers. Keep studying the Scriptures and living in peace with others. I know I'm where I should be and that Heavenly Father knows what he's doing. I'll talk to you in one week!
-Elder Butterfield
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Week 51
Week 51. It is hard to think about another 52 weeks but if these last 51 weeks are any indication of how fast the time goes by it will pass in no time at all. Jacob continues to amaze us with his strong testimony and strength. Here is his latest letter and picture see if you can pick Jacob out. My guess is you will have no trouble at all.
"Hey there! Well it was certainly a great week with two baptisms! We had a really special baptismal service when everything just came together. I'll send the pictures, the young man is Aldair, he's the first in his family to get baptized, but the rest of his family is going to follow. He wants to serve a mission and his mom has said that this will be her religion, without any doubt whatsoever. The other woman is Cristina, a 62 year-old woman whose grandaughter was baptized two weeks ago. The chapel is looking beautiful here and we're going to fill it with members! Well, this week we were blessed with finding a woman who has just about lost everthing, but still continues forward in the faith. As we were walking to our apartment, a little boy started talking talking to my companion. I didn't pay any attention, but he asked us if we were ''Mormones''. We followed him to his apartment and said that we would pass by tomorrow when we had more time. The next day we stopped by and found Ana Maria, a single mom of two boys who has rejected every religious group out there for what she has seen. She was also very ill with gastritis and an infection. She has been gaining hope and confidence through Ther Book of Mormon and daily prayers. We are going to visit her regularly this week and prepare her to be baptized in two weeks, because she really wants to do it. We have been truly blessed and it looks like I'll have 6 more weeks here in Tlapacoyan! Well thanks for filling me in on life back there, thanks for your support and prayers. Love you all! And I know this Work is true!
-Elder Butterfield
"Hey there! Well it was certainly a great week with two baptisms! We had a really special baptismal service when everything just came together. I'll send the pictures, the young man is Aldair, he's the first in his family to get baptized, but the rest of his family is going to follow. He wants to serve a mission and his mom has said that this will be her religion, without any doubt whatsoever. The other woman is Cristina, a 62 year-old woman whose grandaughter was baptized two weeks ago. The chapel is looking beautiful here and we're going to fill it with members! Well, this week we were blessed with finding a woman who has just about lost everthing, but still continues forward in the faith. As we were walking to our apartment, a little boy started talking talking to my companion. I didn't pay any attention, but he asked us if we were ''Mormones''. We followed him to his apartment and said that we would pass by tomorrow when we had more time. The next day we stopped by and found Ana Maria, a single mom of two boys who has rejected every religious group out there for what she has seen. She was also very ill with gastritis and an infection. She has been gaining hope and confidence through Ther Book of Mormon and daily prayers. We are going to visit her regularly this week and prepare her to be baptized in two weeks, because she really wants to do it. We have been truly blessed and it looks like I'll have 6 more weeks here in Tlapacoyan! Well thanks for filling me in on life back there, thanks for your support and prayers. Love you all! And I know this Work is true!
-Elder Butterfield
Week 50
Well it just seems like these weeks are just rolling by. It is so hard to believe that we are soon approaching the one year mark. In some sense it seems like it has been forever but in the other sense the time has flown by. Well here is Jacob's latest email.
"Hola familia mía. Gracias por el correo que me enviaron. Jaja, no se preocupen, no voy a escribirles en español. Well sounds like things are going good there. I like to hear ''we had a great week'' just as you like to hear it from me. Well Krew is going to be two years old by the time I get back, but I'll be there for the 3rd birthday party. You'll always have have a place there in Wisconsin, I actually just met a guy that worked there for a time, in Madison that is.I'm up to Article of Faith number 6 in Spanish. You could always come down and visit the lovely Veracruz port, in a little more than a year that is. Great job woth the running, I'll be a little out of shape when I get home, but I should be solid in the shins for all the walking we do. Well tell everyone I'm doing good and so is the mission. We're going to have a lot of success here in Tlapacoyan when they open the chapel in two and a half weeks. Well I'm fine on money, thanks for caring so much. We're experiencing miracles everyday down here and we are so blessed. Thanks for all your support and prayers. Love you all and I'll write you in one week!
-Elder Butterfield
"Hola familia mía. Gracias por el correo que me enviaron. Jaja, no se preocupen, no voy a escribirles en español. Well sounds like things are going good there. I like to hear ''we had a great week'' just as you like to hear it from me. Well Krew is going to be two years old by the time I get back, but I'll be there for the 3rd birthday party. You'll always have have a place there in Wisconsin, I actually just met a guy that worked there for a time, in Madison that is.I'm up to Article of Faith number 6 in Spanish. You could always come down and visit the lovely Veracruz port, in a little more than a year that is. Great job woth the running, I'll be a little out of shape when I get home, but I should be solid in the shins for all the walking we do. Well tell everyone I'm doing good and so is the mission. We're going to have a lot of success here in Tlapacoyan when they open the chapel in two and a half weeks. Well I'm fine on money, thanks for caring so much. We're experiencing miracles everyday down here and we are so blessed. Thanks for all your support and prayers. Love you all and I'll write you in one week!
-Elder Butterfield
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Week 49
Well it is week 49 and we just had a nice visit back to Wisconsin. We were able to go and celebrate Krew's birthday. What a nice time we had and I think back to last year when Krew was born and Jacob was preparing for his mission. The year has really gone by fast even though there have been a lot of changes. Well here is Jacob's latest letter along with a picture and when I saw the picture I though how beautiful of a place that Jacob is in and then I noticed how sunburned his neck is. I sure do worry about the effects of the sun on him.Here is is letter.
"Hey there! Well it's nice and hot here in Tlapacoyan too, I got a little burned on our zone activity but I should still be recognized as a foreigner, haha. We had a really special baptism this week of a young 9 year old girl named Cristina. She was a little afraid of the water in the river and becuase it was raining the water was rising to dangerous levels. With a quick prayer, she faced her fears and was immersed in the water. 5 minutes later and it would have been too dangerous to go through with. The work is going forth and the chapel here will be open in less than a month! Well from this end, we're going strong, it's never easy, but it's worth it. The conversion is a miraculous process, and I think I'm going to join you all in memorizing Los Articulos de La Fe esta semana! Pues, les amo muchísimo y sé en verdad que estoy en el lugar perfecto por ahorita. Sé que La Iglesia es verdadera y que Jesucristo es Mi Salvador. Nos hablamos en una semana entonces!
-Elder Butterfield (Campo de Mantequilla)
"Hey there! Well it's nice and hot here in Tlapacoyan too, I got a little burned on our zone activity but I should still be recognized as a foreigner, haha. We had a really special baptism this week of a young 9 year old girl named Cristina. She was a little afraid of the water in the river and becuase it was raining the water was rising to dangerous levels. With a quick prayer, she faced her fears and was immersed in the water. 5 minutes later and it would have been too dangerous to go through with. The work is going forth and the chapel here will be open in less than a month! Well from this end, we're going strong, it's never easy, but it's worth it. The conversion is a miraculous process, and I think I'm going to join you all in memorizing Los Articulos de La Fe esta semana! Pues, les amo muchísimo y sé en verdad que estoy en el lugar perfecto por ahorita. Sé que La Iglesia es verdadera y que Jesucristo es Mi Salvador. Nos hablamos en una semana entonces!
-Elder Butterfield (Campo de Mantequilla)
Friday, July 29, 2011
Week 48
Well week 48 and we finished up our week in Utah and are headed back to Oklahoma. It was a very interesting trip this year several people go the stomach flu and that is something that has never happened. Mitch and Grandpa were able to give Keith a blessing which is a huge milestone. I know Jacob would have been very proud of both of them. Here is his latest email.
"Hey there! It feels really nice writing you all and I'm happy to hear you could all take a break and head out to Utah. Well, at least you know how I felt for the past few weeks, having the stomach flu and all, but it sounds like things cleared up. There is a good chance that he will get called here, there a lot of missions and they're adding one this year. Ya, get back to work on that reading, it will help you everyday. The week was pretty good, we're finding all sorts of people to teach, but the trouble is getting them to church. All of the young men and women went to EFY and have really changed. One girl brought her friend with her, and now her friend wants to get baptized! The training is a lot of fun, but a lot of work, I think I'm learning just as much as Elder Mariano! Yep, about one more month and I'll hit my year mark, but that doesn't mean a whole lot to me. I've got some goals that I need to reach right now and I can't stop any time soon. I'm loving it here and I know I'm here for a reason too. The garment tops will be well appreciated and I'm good for money right now. Thanks for all you help and I'll be sure to send you more photos soon! Well I love you all back home, I miss you and I know the Lord is looking after you (Doctrine and Convenants Section 31). Keep on pressing forward and I will be home before you know it. Talk to you next week!
-Elder Butterfield
"Hey there! It feels really nice writing you all and I'm happy to hear you could all take a break and head out to Utah. Well, at least you know how I felt for the past few weeks, having the stomach flu and all, but it sounds like things cleared up. There is a good chance that he will get called here, there a lot of missions and they're adding one this year. Ya, get back to work on that reading, it will help you everyday. The week was pretty good, we're finding all sorts of people to teach, but the trouble is getting them to church. All of the young men and women went to EFY and have really changed. One girl brought her friend with her, and now her friend wants to get baptized! The training is a lot of fun, but a lot of work, I think I'm learning just as much as Elder Mariano! Yep, about one more month and I'll hit my year mark, but that doesn't mean a whole lot to me. I've got some goals that I need to reach right now and I can't stop any time soon. I'm loving it here and I know I'm here for a reason too. The garment tops will be well appreciated and I'm good for money right now. Thanks for all you help and I'll be sure to send you more photos soon! Well I love you all back home, I miss you and I know the Lord is looking after you (Doctrine and Convenants Section 31). Keep on pressing forward and I will be home before you know it. Talk to you next week!
-Elder Butterfield
Week 47
Well we traveled to Utah and it was our first summer trip without Jacob. It seemed rather strange to not have him along. We have only been here a few days and he is greatly missed. Mitchell is lost and has no one to go to Macey's with or do pranks at Walmart. It will be a few years before these two will be back together being that Mitch will leave on his mission next summer and Jacob won't be home yet. Here is is latest email with a picture of his new companion
"What a week! How great to hear that you're all in Utah and everyone is growing up so fast! Thanks for all the support and love you give me, it's really not going to waste. You're going to past me up I think, I'm in Mosiah 9 in Spanish right now. President Treviño is wonderful, I wish you could meet the Treviño family and the Hansen family, you would understand better why I'm so pleased to work alongside them in this great and true work. How neat that you have all of the Scriptures with you all the time. Well, this week I headed down to Veracruz to pick up my new companion. President Treviño gave us our assignments one by one, then we waited to welcome them. I was assigned to train Elder Mariano. He's from Oaxaca, Mexico, but has lived in Tijuana for the past few years. He really came prepared and we got to work right away. Training is a very large responsibility right now in missionary work, and I'm honored to fulfill this assignment. We are really getting out there and doing all we can to advance this great work. I know the Church is true and the Jesus Christ lives and loves every one of us. I have been blessed to be counted among His people in this time. We are the light of this people, he has put us in charge of it. We much do all we can so that all others see us as His servants. Well I love you all immensely and I thank you all too. I love hearing from you each week, and seeing how Our Heavenly Father blesses you all every day!
-Elder Butterfield
"What a week! How great to hear that you're all in Utah and everyone is growing up so fast! Thanks for all the support and love you give me, it's really not going to waste. You're going to past me up I think, I'm in Mosiah 9 in Spanish right now. President Treviño is wonderful, I wish you could meet the Treviño family and the Hansen family, you would understand better why I'm so pleased to work alongside them in this great and true work. How neat that you have all of the Scriptures with you all the time. Well, this week I headed down to Veracruz to pick up my new companion. President Treviño gave us our assignments one by one, then we waited to welcome them. I was assigned to train Elder Mariano. He's from Oaxaca, Mexico, but has lived in Tijuana for the past few years. He really came prepared and we got to work right away. Training is a very large responsibility right now in missionary work, and I'm honored to fulfill this assignment. We are really getting out there and doing all we can to advance this great work. I know the Church is true and the Jesus Christ lives and loves every one of us. I have been blessed to be counted among His people in this time. We are the light of this people, he has put us in charge of it. We much do all we can so that all others see us as His servants. Well I love you all immensely and I thank you all too. I love hearing from you each week, and seeing how Our Heavenly Father blesses you all every day!
-Elder Butterfield
Week 46
I must say that I was relieved when I read Jacob's email this week. I had worried all week about him being sick. It is hard not to be able to just call and tell him what he should take or what he should do to start feeling better. Here is his latest email
"Wow, I could believe the letter you wrote me. I would just have to say that it's pretty funny, but at the same time very exciting. Well, I'm feeling a whole lot better this week, I have been taking my Pepto-Bismol like a good missionary are everything has really cleared up. We are going to have to work very hard this week to get this area excited, but we're ready to start going. I will have to check on that in 2 Nephi, but I can tell you that every time we introduce The Book of Mormon, we always make reference to the ancestors of our investigators. We hardly use anything else to teach because there is no other book that was written for these people. Well I believe that this excitement is someting that's going to help the Church, and it all seems like good publicity. I sometimes just wish that the world would view how perfect the Church is and lend it's ear to the inspired voices of the Prophets and Apostles of our time. Well this past week was tough, but we managed a baptismal service for a young single mom named Marí. We also confirmed a young man who didn't want to get confirmed after his baptism three months ago. Also, President Treviño came to a large conference this past Wednesday. We have a new goal for the next six months of 1,800 baptisms now that we have completed with our goal of 1,500 in 6 months. I have set various personal goals and we are eagerly working toward that great and inspired goal. Thank you so much for the prayers and I know they have truly helped me feel better. I know you're supporting me in more ways than I can imagine, and I thank all of you for it. Well, tonight we have a baptismal service of a young couple and tomorrow I have to head on down to Veracruz to pick up my fresh companion. There was never a work so thrilling as this one. Well, I love you all and I can't wait to hear from you in one week!
-Elder Butterfield
"Wow, I could believe the letter you wrote me. I would just have to say that it's pretty funny, but at the same time very exciting. Well, I'm feeling a whole lot better this week, I have been taking my Pepto-Bismol like a good missionary are everything has really cleared up. We are going to have to work very hard this week to get this area excited, but we're ready to start going. I will have to check on that in 2 Nephi, but I can tell you that every time we introduce The Book of Mormon, we always make reference to the ancestors of our investigators. We hardly use anything else to teach because there is no other book that was written for these people. Well I believe that this excitement is someting that's going to help the Church, and it all seems like good publicity. I sometimes just wish that the world would view how perfect the Church is and lend it's ear to the inspired voices of the Prophets and Apostles of our time. Well this past week was tough, but we managed a baptismal service for a young single mom named Marí. We also confirmed a young man who didn't want to get confirmed after his baptism three months ago. Also, President Treviño came to a large conference this past Wednesday. We have a new goal for the next six months of 1,800 baptisms now that we have completed with our goal of 1,500 in 6 months. I have set various personal goals and we are eagerly working toward that great and inspired goal. Thank you so much for the prayers and I know they have truly helped me feel better. I know you're supporting me in more ways than I can imagine, and I thank all of you for it. Well, tonight we have a baptismal service of a young couple and tomorrow I have to head on down to Veracruz to pick up my fresh companion. There was never a work so thrilling as this one. Well, I love you all and I can't wait to hear from you in one week!
-Elder Butterfield
Friday, July 8, 2011
Week 44
Week 44 and counting! Not really but sort of. Anyway this week has flown by also but when I got Jake's latest letter I am a little concerned. He mentions being under the weather twice in this letter and that always worried a mom. I hope he is feeling better and about all I can do is pray. So Blake and I have been doing a fair amount of that this week. Here is Jacob's latest letter.
"A wonderful week indeed! A little tough because I got sick two times, but I'm feeling better and ready to work. We changed our apartment to a really nice place that's right by the new Church. We also changed our Mission President, something that really affected the mission. This week we will welcome in President Treviño in a zone conference and be able to press forward. We were hit with massive rain this week, but the ''hurricane'' deteriorated before it got to us. Is Wisconsin still crazy right now? Or have things settled down in the city or chaos? Well don't worry about the work, I was sick this whole week and there wasn't any time to rest, but I know that it's better to press forward, which is something I learned from you! Well, next week I'll receive my new companion, and President Hansen said he might be American, well we're in for something new in the coming days, can you say excited? Let's get out there and do some solid work! I know the Church is true and that Heavenly Father is merciful with all of His children. We deserve mercy if we give it and rest if we give it. There's still plenty of work for us to do in this world, and we know that trying times are ahead, if you're feeling down, check our Elder Russell M. Nelson's talk from General Conference about ''Facing the Future with Faith.'' Well I love you both and keep hitting me with the good news because I know there's a lot of it to go around!
-Elder Butterfield
"A wonderful week indeed! A little tough because I got sick two times, but I'm feeling better and ready to work. We changed our apartment to a really nice place that's right by the new Church. We also changed our Mission President, something that really affected the mission. This week we will welcome in President Treviño in a zone conference and be able to press forward. We were hit with massive rain this week, but the ''hurricane'' deteriorated before it got to us. Is Wisconsin still crazy right now? Or have things settled down in the city or chaos? Well don't worry about the work, I was sick this whole week and there wasn't any time to rest, but I know that it's better to press forward, which is something I learned from you! Well, next week I'll receive my new companion, and President Hansen said he might be American, well we're in for something new in the coming days, can you say excited? Let's get out there and do some solid work! I know the Church is true and that Heavenly Father is merciful with all of His children. We deserve mercy if we give it and rest if we give it. There's still plenty of work for us to do in this world, and we know that trying times are ahead, if you're feeling down, check our Elder Russell M. Nelson's talk from General Conference about ''Facing the Future with Faith.'' Well I love you both and keep hitting me with the good news because I know there's a lot of it to go around!
-Elder Butterfield
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Week 43
Week 43 by the next time I write an email to Jacob he will have been out 10 months. We are headed to Utah in a couple of weeks for our annual trip and this will be the first summer without Jacob. He was always our source of entertainment. He and Mitchell have their little routines and it has been so fun watching these two boys grow up and become the young men they are today. Here is Jake's latest letter.
"We had our Mission Conference to say goodbye to President Hansen and his wife this past Tuesday. It was very interesting to see them go, I don't know hardly anything about the coming President Treviño. It was very special to see all of the missionaries here united and we really enjoyed it. We had a baptismal service of a woman named Margarita this Saturday. I baptized her in a river, to be able to get baptized, she had to move out of the house of her boyfriend with her three kids although she didn't have much money. This service completed a ''bauti-mes'' which means that we baptized someone every week of the month of June. It was really special, and the mission as a whole completed with the goal of 1500 baptisms from January to June. The month of July is looking like an unastounding 300 baptisms, something this mission has never done before. I testify that we are truly working in the Lord's vineard and that we are receiving blessings and revelation for our service. I love you both and I can't wait to talk to you in one week, granted you have a computer to e-mail me, haha."
con amor,
Elder Butterfield
"We had our Mission Conference to say goodbye to President Hansen and his wife this past Tuesday. It was very interesting to see them go, I don't know hardly anything about the coming President Treviño. It was very special to see all of the missionaries here united and we really enjoyed it. We had a baptismal service of a woman named Margarita this Saturday. I baptized her in a river, to be able to get baptized, she had to move out of the house of her boyfriend with her three kids although she didn't have much money. This service completed a ''bauti-mes'' which means that we baptized someone every week of the month of June. It was really special, and the mission as a whole completed with the goal of 1500 baptisms from January to June. The month of July is looking like an unastounding 300 baptisms, something this mission has never done before. I testify that we are truly working in the Lord's vineard and that we are receiving blessings and revelation for our service. I love you both and I can't wait to talk to you in one week, granted you have a computer to e-mail me, haha."
con amor,
Elder Butterfield
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Week 42
Week 42 and not a lot new has happened. I am truly amazed at how quickly the week goes by it seems like it is Sunday and we are emailing Jacob. It is getting very warm here in Oklahoma but nothing compared to how it is were Jacob is serving. I sure do worry about his fair skin and hope he is using his sunscreen. Well here is his latest letter.
"Well, we went on down to Veracruz this week, but we had to return the following day because of a strike in the bus companies. I guess the gov't raised the price of oil and now it's harder to get around. Thanks always for the beef jerky, my companion is hooked! In How neat the story of President Monson, I really would love to read that book when I get home! It's pretty hot here, but the sunscreen works really well. I'm not changing colors anytime soon! Well I love you both and I know you do more than I can think for me. I know I'm doing the Lord's work and that this is what I must do right now. I can't wait to talk to you in one week!
-Elder Butterfield
"Well, we went on down to Veracruz this week, but we had to return the following day because of a strike in the bus companies. I guess the gov't raised the price of oil and now it's harder to get around. Thanks always for the beef jerky, my companion is hooked! In How neat the story of President Monson, I really would love to read that book when I get home! It's pretty hot here, but the sunscreen works really well. I'm not changing colors anytime soon! Well I love you both and I know you do more than I can think for me. I know I'm doing the Lord's work and that this is what I must do right now. I can't wait to talk to you in one week!
-Elder Butterfield
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Week 41
Week 41! I know I say this each week but I can't believe that we are at week 41 already. It is heating up here in Oklahoma but I don't think that this is anything compared to what Jacob is experiencing. I know he is looking forward to cooler weather. His new area looks beautiful and he is really enjoying it. Here is his latest letter and a new picture too!
"Hot is it? Maybe that global warming business has some sense after all. Haha, well it's not as hot here as Poza Rica, but it's higher in altitude so the sun in pretty strong. I put on sunscreen every day, so don't be worrying. We had a really special baptism this week of a 70 year-old man named Candido. We got permision from President Hansen to confirm him after his baptism so that he could go to the temple with the ward the following day. I baptized him in a river in our area. It was absolutely beautiful and really a special experience. President Hansen and his wife also stopped by for Sacrament Meeting Sunday morning. They offered their testimonies and really excited the ward. President Hansen ends his service at the end of this transfer and he is going to recommend me as a trainer for the next change. It will be a very neat experience to be able to train a brand new missionary especially in an area such as this one. Well I love you all! I'm in the true Lord's work! But even then I plead for help every day because I can't do this alone. I expect great news this week, because I know it will come if you continue reading The Book of Mormon, praying and striving to do your best ever single day! Just say every morning, ´´Today is going to be a great day´´ and it will go well. Pray every morning and it's impossible to frown. Well, that's my advice, you made the right decision, now love it!
-Elder Butterfield
Jacob and his companion at the baptism of Candido
"Hot is it? Maybe that global warming business has some sense after all. Haha, well it's not as hot here as Poza Rica, but it's higher in altitude so the sun in pretty strong. I put on sunscreen every day, so don't be worrying. We had a really special baptism this week of a 70 year-old man named Candido. We got permision from President Hansen to confirm him after his baptism so that he could go to the temple with the ward the following day. I baptized him in a river in our area. It was absolutely beautiful and really a special experience. President Hansen and his wife also stopped by for Sacrament Meeting Sunday morning. They offered their testimonies and really excited the ward. President Hansen ends his service at the end of this transfer and he is going to recommend me as a trainer for the next change. It will be a very neat experience to be able to train a brand new missionary especially in an area such as this one. Well I love you all! I'm in the true Lord's work! But even then I plead for help every day because I can't do this alone. I expect great news this week, because I know it will come if you continue reading The Book of Mormon, praying and striving to do your best ever single day! Just say every morning, ´´Today is going to be a great day´´ and it will go well. Pray every morning and it's impossible to frown. Well, that's my advice, you made the right decision, now love it!
-Elder Butterfield
Jacob and his companion at the baptism of Candido
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Week 40
Well this was another rough week as we traveled to Utah for a funeral. It was nice to see family but not under these circumstances. I can always count on a letter from Jacob to put everything into perspective. Here is his latest letter.
"Hey there! Well, here I am in beautiful Tlapacoyan, Veracruz. My Zone is officially in the State of Puebla, but I´m still here in Veracruz. The town is pretty small, about 20,000 people and there´s a ward here. The chapel is just being built, and they have met in a rented building for 7 years, needless to say, the ward is very excited. My companion is Elder Castañeda, he´s from Mexico City and it´s his third transfer in the mission. The area is cool and I would say it´s the most beautiful area I have had in the mission. Really, look it up! Well, I hope and pray that you´re all doing alright coping with Tad´s death, and I´m sure it was easier with the family at your side. It was unexpected, but it can´t be changed. There´s an absolutely beautiful talk that was given in General Conference, ´´The Atonement Can Heal Everything´´ or something like that. It´s very powerful and incredibly true. Don´t worry about a thing, just live in gratitude to Heavenly Father and always remember the Atonement of Jesus Christ. There can´t be any other remedy more fulfilling. Well, I love you both and I´m excited to hear about you two reading the Book of Mormon, hopefully one day you can finish it in Spanish. If you don´t believe me, read Mark 9:23. Well, this work is true, and I wouldn´t be out here if it wasn´t for you two. Love you!
-Elder Butterfield
"Hey there! Well, here I am in beautiful Tlapacoyan, Veracruz. My Zone is officially in the State of Puebla, but I´m still here in Veracruz. The town is pretty small, about 20,000 people and there´s a ward here. The chapel is just being built, and they have met in a rented building for 7 years, needless to say, the ward is very excited. My companion is Elder Castañeda, he´s from Mexico City and it´s his third transfer in the mission. The area is cool and I would say it´s the most beautiful area I have had in the mission. Really, look it up! Well, I hope and pray that you´re all doing alright coping with Tad´s death, and I´m sure it was easier with the family at your side. It was unexpected, but it can´t be changed. There´s an absolutely beautiful talk that was given in General Conference, ´´The Atonement Can Heal Everything´´ or something like that. It´s very powerful and incredibly true. Don´t worry about a thing, just live in gratitude to Heavenly Father and always remember the Atonement of Jesus Christ. There can´t be any other remedy more fulfilling. Well, I love you both and I´m excited to hear about you two reading the Book of Mormon, hopefully one day you can finish it in Spanish. If you don´t believe me, read Mark 9:23. Well, this work is true, and I wouldn´t be out here if it wasn´t for you two. Love you!
-Elder Butterfield
Week 39
Week 39 and it has been a rough week. We had an unexpected death in the family and I think it made Blake and I realize that life is very precious and you just never know when your time to leave this life is going to be. We are ever more grateful for the knowledge of eternal life and we know that we will see our loved ones once again. Here is Jake's latest letter.
"Hey there, thanks a lot for the letter. Pretty special that you were welcomed into the new ward and there's already connections being made. Is the Bishop pretty neat? We were blessed this past week with a nother baptism of a young girl named Dana. We're bing blessed, but my time has come to change areas. I'm being transferred to a fast growing ward in the state of Puebla (but still in the Veracruz Mission). A few people have commented on the tornadoes they've seen in the news. It's pretty rough I hear, but that's how it goes. Well, it is incredibly sad to hear this news about Tad, especially because I really respected and admired him. Your brother had all sorts of charisma and grew a beautiful family. I can't imagine the grief that is passing through the family in this time, but it's reassuring to see the family coping together with this pain. I really hope and pray that you're all doing all right and thanks so much for your letters and prayers. All I can say is that we know the true Plan of Salvation, there is no substitute. We know that there is life yet to come and that our trials and sufferings are but a brief moment in this life. We are blessed to live in the last dispensation with all the truth we have. Just a quick experience: when I was reading your letter, the truth of your statement about President Monson struck me very deeply. I know he's a Prophet of God in our time too. Thanks so much for your testimony and support. My heart truly goes out to our family and we will be blessed and comforted in this time. I love you all!
-Elder Butterfield
"Hey there, thanks a lot for the letter. Pretty special that you were welcomed into the new ward and there's already connections being made. Is the Bishop pretty neat? We were blessed this past week with a nother baptism of a young girl named Dana. We're bing blessed, but my time has come to change areas. I'm being transferred to a fast growing ward in the state of Puebla (but still in the Veracruz Mission). A few people have commented on the tornadoes they've seen in the news. It's pretty rough I hear, but that's how it goes. Well, it is incredibly sad to hear this news about Tad, especially because I really respected and admired him. Your brother had all sorts of charisma and grew a beautiful family. I can't imagine the grief that is passing through the family in this time, but it's reassuring to see the family coping together with this pain. I really hope and pray that you're all doing all right and thanks so much for your letters and prayers. All I can say is that we know the true Plan of Salvation, there is no substitute. We know that there is life yet to come and that our trials and sufferings are but a brief moment in this life. We are blessed to live in the last dispensation with all the truth we have. Just a quick experience: when I was reading your letter, the truth of your statement about President Monson struck me very deeply. I know he's a Prophet of God in our time too. Thanks so much for your testimony and support. My heart truly goes out to our family and we will be blessed and comforted in this time. I love you all!
-Elder Butterfield
Week 38
It is so hard to believe that we are at week 38 and before long it will be 52 and I will be counting down from there. Sometimes people ask me how it is to have a son that you can only talk to twice a year. My answer is that it is very hard but I know that he is doing the right thing and he is happy in what he is doing at least most of the time. Well here is his latest letter.
"Hola! Well it's true, the world continues, although a lot of people thought we were spreading the rumor about the 21st of May. We said, ''no, no one knows....'' Is it looking like the time for Mitt Romney or are we going to go with Palin? Haha, not that it really matters. Tornadoes? That's what I always think about when I think of Oklahoma. I heard that our picture is in the Liahona this month, look for one of a baptismal service in Poza Rica, Veracruz. The work is going great. We had a baptismal service this week of a 24 year-old named Julio, that makes 3 consecutive weeks of baptisms! Our Heavenly Father has truly blessed us in this area and He continues to do so. I'm about to finish 2 Nefi in Spanish, and I learn so much every time I read. We taught about 27 this week and we had a conference with President Hansen. He's only got about one month left! It's blazing hot here, but I'm loving it. We're enjoying the blessings for our work and the heat. That's great to hear about you reading the scriptures every night. You will be blessed as you continue to do so. Well I know this Church is true. The Book of Mormon is a true book and was written by Prophets that lived here. Joseph Smith was a prophet of God as Thomas S. Monson is today. Jesus Christ must be the center of our lives if we are to be peaceful and happy. nThanks so much for your prayers and I love you both!
-Elder Butterfield
"Hola! Well it's true, the world continues, although a lot of people thought we were spreading the rumor about the 21st of May. We said, ''no, no one knows....'' Is it looking like the time for Mitt Romney or are we going to go with Palin? Haha, not that it really matters. Tornadoes? That's what I always think about when I think of Oklahoma. I heard that our picture is in the Liahona this month, look for one of a baptismal service in Poza Rica, Veracruz. The work is going great. We had a baptismal service this week of a 24 year-old named Julio, that makes 3 consecutive weeks of baptisms! Our Heavenly Father has truly blessed us in this area and He continues to do so. I'm about to finish 2 Nefi in Spanish, and I learn so much every time I read. We taught about 27 this week and we had a conference with President Hansen. He's only got about one month left! It's blazing hot here, but I'm loving it. We're enjoying the blessings for our work and the heat. That's great to hear about you reading the scriptures every night. You will be blessed as you continue to do so. Well I know this Church is true. The Book of Mormon is a true book and was written by Prophets that lived here. Joseph Smith was a prophet of God as Thomas S. Monson is today. Jesus Christ must be the center of our lives if we are to be peaceful and happy. nThanks so much for your prayers and I love you both!
-Elder Butterfield
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Week 37
Well, week 37 can't believe it. Not a lot has happened this last week. It seems like Jacob should be coming home for the summer but so much has changed since last year. I am so proud of the choices he has made and the progress that he is making with his testimony
"Here's some proof that I'm enjoying the mission (see picture attached). A humble abode, but really delicious food. Everything is going wonderful. We're into baptizing, and finding the chosen people that Heavenly Father has prepared for us. I may not have gained any weight, but I'm certainly not in shape, I was very tired this week! Apparently the city Xalapa was visited this week by Elder Oaks and a few Elders of the Seventy, and some blessed missionaries were able to meet them and their wives. Don't let a day pass without studying that book with an eye of faith, it's all we use out here and it's all that is needed. I keep having the idea of memorizing scriptures although there isn't much time, we'll have to find a plan to do it. Anyway, this week we baptized 2 Erikas! One is the daughter of the couple we baptized last week and the other is an 18 year-old that is in love with Michael Jackson. Haha, it was really special to see the change in these two daughters of God and help them find the path of righteousness and repentence. I know the Church is true and that God directs it today, He blesses us in our families and is willing and ready to help us change our lives for our own benefit and for the benefit of others. I love you all and I'll hear from you in a week!"
-Elder Butterfield
"Here's some proof that I'm enjoying the mission (see picture attached). A humble abode, but really delicious food. Everything is going wonderful. We're into baptizing, and finding the chosen people that Heavenly Father has prepared for us. I may not have gained any weight, but I'm certainly not in shape, I was very tired this week! Apparently the city Xalapa was visited this week by Elder Oaks and a few Elders of the Seventy, and some blessed missionaries were able to meet them and their wives. Don't let a day pass without studying that book with an eye of faith, it's all we use out here and it's all that is needed. I keep having the idea of memorizing scriptures although there isn't much time, we'll have to find a plan to do it. Anyway, this week we baptized 2 Erikas! One is the daughter of the couple we baptized last week and the other is an 18 year-old that is in love with Michael Jackson. Haha, it was really special to see the change in these two daughters of God and help them find the path of righteousness and repentence. I know the Church is true and that God directs it today, He blesses us in our families and is willing and ready to help us change our lives for our own benefit and for the benefit of others. I love you all and I'll hear from you in a week!"
-Elder Butterfield
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Week 36
Well it is week 36 and I got a phone call. We were actually able to have a whole family conversation with everyone on skype (Thanks Keith). I couldn't see Jacob because I couldn't get skype on his computer. He could't even remember his password so I could download it. Anyway it was great to talk to him and hear his voice. I hear that he is pretty red and that worries me some. I need to get him some really good sunscreen. He also tells me that all his shirts are stained because it is so hot. New white shirts on on the way. Well it will be the longest time yet between phone calls now 7 months to be exact. I am sure I can hang on. Here is his latest letter and picture!
"Thanks a lot for your e-mail, it helps me so much to know you're all doing fine back home. I really don't need much of anything, I really couldn't be better set here. I'm really loving it here, and I feel wonderful. I've been going at the mission in the wrong way for too long. Too often I find myself reciting things in lessons as if I were a robot. I'm really trying to put the material into my own words to help myself with the conversion process. We watched a talk by Elder Holland this past week about missionaries that memorized their lessons, and became inactive after their missions. This is something I fear and something I think I need to change. If I can really put the lessons in my own words, I will become converted. I think it's why I'm on a mission in this time, because I need to convert myself and help the wonderful people I teach become converted also. Well, we just had a baptism of a couple this week, and we're going to baptize many, many more. This is a picture of Esperanza and Eduardo, both had their problems, but are very solid and going to make a wonderful addition to the branch. Well I love you all back home. I don't need a thing, because my Heavenly Father provides for me. Just always remember to pray and read the scriptures diligently, I know there are answers in the simple things!
-Elder Butterfield
Esperanza and Eduardo
"Thanks a lot for your e-mail, it helps me so much to know you're all doing fine back home. I really don't need much of anything, I really couldn't be better set here. I'm really loving it here, and I feel wonderful. I've been going at the mission in the wrong way for too long. Too often I find myself reciting things in lessons as if I were a robot. I'm really trying to put the material into my own words to help myself with the conversion process. We watched a talk by Elder Holland this past week about missionaries that memorized their lessons, and became inactive after their missions. This is something I fear and something I think I need to change. If I can really put the lessons in my own words, I will become converted. I think it's why I'm on a mission in this time, because I need to convert myself and help the wonderful people I teach become converted also. Well, we just had a baptism of a couple this week, and we're going to baptize many, many more. This is a picture of Esperanza and Eduardo, both had their problems, but are very solid and going to make a wonderful addition to the branch. Well I love you all back home. I don't need a thing, because my Heavenly Father provides for me. Just always remember to pray and read the scriptures diligently, I know there are answers in the simple things!
-Elder Butterfield
Esperanza and Eduardo
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Week 35
Here we are at week 35 and Jacob has been out for 8 months and I can hardly believe it. I am looking forward to his call this coming Sunday and to think that the next time I talk to him on the phone it will be Christmas and he will be on the count down. He is enjoying his mission and all the learning that has come with serving. Here is his latest letter.
"Hola! Well thanks for letter, and filling me in on your week. This week, an 86 year-old member got up to bear her testimony although she had been sick this week, as she was about to close, she fainted into the arms of the Ward Secretary and Conselor in the Bishopric. We gave her a blessing and she was driven to her house to rest. Her testimony was very powerful and the investigators we brought were touched by her genuineness. Although it was a bizarre situation, it really showed how the ward worked together and comforted it's sick member. There's always love in this work and a great sense of urgency and duty. We're teaching a family that really needs the Gospel in their lives and we're looking forward to the baptisms of the parents this weekend. Don't worry about a thing where you are, just be diligent, faithful, loving and meek. The Spirit will teach you what your purpose is in your present situation. I look forward to calling you all this Sunday around 3:00 your time, so just have the account ready. Love you all very much and I can't wait to talk to you (and see your HAPPY faces!)
-Elder Butterfield
"Hola! Well thanks for letter, and filling me in on your week. This week, an 86 year-old member got up to bear her testimony although she had been sick this week, as she was about to close, she fainted into the arms of the Ward Secretary and Conselor in the Bishopric. We gave her a blessing and she was driven to her house to rest. Her testimony was very powerful and the investigators we brought were touched by her genuineness. Although it was a bizarre situation, it really showed how the ward worked together and comforted it's sick member. There's always love in this work and a great sense of urgency and duty. We're teaching a family that really needs the Gospel in their lives and we're looking forward to the baptisms of the parents this weekend. Don't worry about a thing where you are, just be diligent, faithful, loving and meek. The Spirit will teach you what your purpose is in your present situation. I look forward to calling you all this Sunday around 3:00 your time, so just have the account ready. Love you all very much and I can't wait to talk to you (and see your HAPPY faces!)
-Elder Butterfield
Monday, April 25, 2011
Week 34
It is hard to believe that Jacob has been gone 34 weeks. I am anxiously awaiting another phone call in a few weeks. He sent a few pictures this week and I don't like one of them. I will let you guess which one I am not too fond of.
"Happy Easter! We were able to view a progam on Easter yesterday, a musical by the Church that was really neat. We did have a great week, we were blessed with the baptisms on two sons of an inactive (but now active) member named Brenda. The Lord blessed these yound boys with faith and confidence in thier decisions. Here's their picture. Well it was interesting with the new companion, he's from Peru and speaks a little different than the Mexicans. His name is Elder Quispe, and we're going to have a lot of success together! This change has been interesting for me, as I'm sure your change has been interesting. It's still cold up there? Well, it's so hot that we left the windows open and a scorpion entered our house! It was interesting, plus we only have one fan to cool us. I bathe with cold water every day and I love it! We're going to go to the edge this week and do all things in order before our God. I'm hoping we'll have Skype, but I don't know how well I'll be able to speak English. It's going to be interesting. Well I love you all so much. I thank my Heavenly Father for pouring our His blessings upon our family. It's truly the Lord's work. Love you!
-Elder Butterfield
The scorpion that snuck into their apartment.....
The young men they recently baptized!
"Happy Easter! We were able to view a progam on Easter yesterday, a musical by the Church that was really neat. We did have a great week, we were blessed with the baptisms on two sons of an inactive (but now active) member named Brenda. The Lord blessed these yound boys with faith and confidence in thier decisions. Here's their picture. Well it was interesting with the new companion, he's from Peru and speaks a little different than the Mexicans. His name is Elder Quispe, and we're going to have a lot of success together! This change has been interesting for me, as I'm sure your change has been interesting. It's still cold up there? Well, it's so hot that we left the windows open and a scorpion entered our house! It was interesting, plus we only have one fan to cool us. I bathe with cold water every day and I love it! We're going to go to the edge this week and do all things in order before our God. I'm hoping we'll have Skype, but I don't know how well I'll be able to speak English. It's going to be interesting. Well I love you all so much. I thank my Heavenly Father for pouring our His blessings upon our family. It's truly the Lord's work. Love you!
-Elder Butterfield
The scorpion that snuck into their apartment.....
The young men they recently baptized!
Week 33
Well this has been a week of change for everyone. I am living in Tulsa and starting a new job. When I think of how hard this is sometimes I reflect on how hard it must have been to leave your home and everything for 2 years like Jacob did and every other missionary does. I think missionaries make such a great sacrifice I have nothing to complain about. Well here is Jake's latest letter.
"Hello! Thanks for telling me how it's going with all the new changes! What do you do to pass the time by yourself? I hope you have a hobby (maybe learning how to use Linux), or find some good friends down there. News on this end, my companion, Elder Flores, is getting transferred tomorrow after only 6 weeks here. My new companion is a Peruvian Elder named Elder Quispie. We will be co-Senior companions for the next six weeks. We're looking forward to 2 baptisms this week, sons of a recently reactivated member, named Brandon and Gael! They're really excited, and it's going to be a really special service for them. I'm looking forward to the new companionship, and working extra hard in the next six weeks! Well, I can't thank you enough for your support and prayers. I'm eternally greatful to my Heavenly Father for sending me into such a warm household with a true eternal family. I'm out here to express my gratitude for my blessings, thanks for the letter and talk to you in one week!
-Elder Butterfield
"Hello! Thanks for telling me how it's going with all the new changes! What do you do to pass the time by yourself? I hope you have a hobby (maybe learning how to use Linux), or find some good friends down there. News on this end, my companion, Elder Flores, is getting transferred tomorrow after only 6 weeks here. My new companion is a Peruvian Elder named Elder Quispie. We will be co-Senior companions for the next six weeks. We're looking forward to 2 baptisms this week, sons of a recently reactivated member, named Brandon and Gael! They're really excited, and it's going to be a really special service for them. I'm looking forward to the new companionship, and working extra hard in the next six weeks! Well, I can't thank you enough for your support and prayers. I'm eternally greatful to my Heavenly Father for sending me into such a warm household with a true eternal family. I'm out here to express my gratitude for my blessings, thanks for the letter and talk to you in one week!
-Elder Butterfield
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Week 32
I got a little behind on my posts but I am all caught up with his letters until I get one tomorrow. I am use to being able to check my email throughout the day on Monday but at my new job I will have to wait until I get home from work. It will give me something to look forward to all day. I live for the emails I get each week. Here is Jake's latest email.
"Sounds like a great week for you all at home! Hope everyone knows I'm doing great out here and I hope the same for those at home. I'm actually going to write Henrik today to see how things are for him. What's time out for women? Did Sheri Dew speak? (I met her in the MTC!) Going to the temple will allow you to set your mind on the greatness of God and being in His service, He will bless you for your diligence! WHAT?! A freshman?! Haha, it's about time Oregon got a prodigy, dad will have to keep me updated on that. Well thanks for your letter. We're really working hard, and our goal is to baptize someone every week for the next six weeks, I know we can do it, and Heavenly Father will help us! Thanks for the update, I'll let you know how things turn out! Love you all!
-Elder Butterfield
"Sounds like a great week for you all at home! Hope everyone knows I'm doing great out here and I hope the same for those at home. I'm actually going to write Henrik today to see how things are for him. What's time out for women? Did Sheri Dew speak? (I met her in the MTC!) Going to the temple will allow you to set your mind on the greatness of God and being in His service, He will bless you for your diligence! WHAT?! A freshman?! Haha, it's about time Oregon got a prodigy, dad will have to keep me updated on that. Well thanks for your letter. We're really working hard, and our goal is to baptize someone every week for the next six weeks, I know we can do it, and Heavenly Father will help us! Thanks for the update, I'll let you know how things turn out! Love you all!
-Elder Butterfield
Week 31
It is week 31 and it won't be long before I will get my next phone call. The time is passing quickly but it also seems like he has been gone forever. Here is his latest letter:
" Well I don't have much time to write, but I want to tell you about Eudoxio: We had been teaching this older man for some time, and he always wanted to postpone his baptismal date. In a lesson with him we tried about ten times to get him to pray with us about his date. Finally, he offered a very simple but direct prayer to Heavenly Father. Minutes later he confided in us a past issue, and asked us, ''what do I need to bring to the baptism?'' It was absolutely inspiring and truly a testimony to the work. I realized this week how simple it is for someone to receive an answer from God, although so many people don't do it. He is evidence that everyone can receive a testimony of the Church and be certain about their baptism. After I baptized him, he said he wanted to do it again. Well the Conference was really special, although I couldn't understand much of it (they speak really fast). Well I'm eager to hear what's going on next week, but for now I'll just say I love you very much and pray for you all frequently. The Church is true!
-Elder Butterfield
" Well I don't have much time to write, but I want to tell you about Eudoxio: We had been teaching this older man for some time, and he always wanted to postpone his baptismal date. In a lesson with him we tried about ten times to get him to pray with us about his date. Finally, he offered a very simple but direct prayer to Heavenly Father. Minutes later he confided in us a past issue, and asked us, ''what do I need to bring to the baptism?'' It was absolutely inspiring and truly a testimony to the work. I realized this week how simple it is for someone to receive an answer from God, although so many people don't do it. He is evidence that everyone can receive a testimony of the Church and be certain about their baptism. After I baptized him, he said he wanted to do it again. Well the Conference was really special, although I couldn't understand much of it (they speak really fast). Well I'm eager to hear what's going on next week, but for now I'll just say I love you very much and pray for you all frequently. The Church is true!
-Elder Butterfield
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Week 30
It has been 7 months since Jacob left and it has gone by rather fast. Here is his latest email and I am glad to report he got our email this week.
"Wow, I really expected him to be in another part of Japan, but there he was. That's truly amazing and a testament to the protection of the missionaries. The Lord's hands we're guarding His servants. A lot of people have commented on the earthquake, and have talked about ''the end of the world.'' We won't have need to worry about such things if we're doing the things we should be. If you want info on Mike, check under my Facebook, his name is Michael Ruefenacht, I'm not sure on the spelling. My companion is really great, the Lord blessed me and this area with such a solid servant. Every companionship in the Zone has at least one baptismal service planned for this week, and in the mission as a whole, there are 109 baptisms planned for this week. That's absolutely stunning for a mission of 89 companionships. We've been teaching a man whose is about 65 years old, but has a health condition. Last night he told us that he doesn't want to die in sin. We're praying for him a lot, that he will get baptized this week. Wow, is it starting to hit you now? The big change of life from Oregon, Wisconsin to Oklahoma. I know everything will work out because the Lord blesses the families of his missionaries. I can't even begin to express the thanks I owe to my family. I have been blessed with goodly parents, and the Lord has allowed me to tarry in an eternal family. I love you all, that's about as much as I can say. I thank Heavenly Father frequently for my family and I pray for your safety. Something I found out in the mission: a study of the scriptures will increase intelligence faster than anything else. If you're having trouble, do a little study, and it will work out. Well thanks for everything as always, soon enough we will be able to talk and see eachother! I might have a little trouble, after all, I've started dreaming in Spanish! Heavenly Father has really helped me take long strides in the language. Well love you two again, let me know how the move turns out!"
Elder Butterfield
"Wow, I really expected him to be in another part of Japan, but there he was. That's truly amazing and a testament to the protection of the missionaries. The Lord's hands we're guarding His servants. A lot of people have commented on the earthquake, and have talked about ''the end of the world.'' We won't have need to worry about such things if we're doing the things we should be. If you want info on Mike, check under my Facebook, his name is Michael Ruefenacht, I'm not sure on the spelling. My companion is really great, the Lord blessed me and this area with such a solid servant. Every companionship in the Zone has at least one baptismal service planned for this week, and in the mission as a whole, there are 109 baptisms planned for this week. That's absolutely stunning for a mission of 89 companionships. We've been teaching a man whose is about 65 years old, but has a health condition. Last night he told us that he doesn't want to die in sin. We're praying for him a lot, that he will get baptized this week. Wow, is it starting to hit you now? The big change of life from Oregon, Wisconsin to Oklahoma. I know everything will work out because the Lord blesses the families of his missionaries. I can't even begin to express the thanks I owe to my family. I have been blessed with goodly parents, and the Lord has allowed me to tarry in an eternal family. I love you all, that's about as much as I can say. I thank Heavenly Father frequently for my family and I pray for your safety. Something I found out in the mission: a study of the scriptures will increase intelligence faster than anything else. If you're having trouble, do a little study, and it will work out. Well thanks for everything as always, soon enough we will be able to talk and see eachother! I might have a little trouble, after all, I've started dreaming in Spanish! Heavenly Father has really helped me take long strides in the language. Well love you two again, let me know how the move turns out!"
Elder Butterfield
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Week 29
Well this last week we found out that Jacob didn't receive our email That was rather disheartening to say the least. This week will mark another mile stone he will have been out 7 months by the end of the week. It is hard to believe in someways and in other ways it seems like he has been gone forever. Anyway here is his latest letter. It is a little on the short side.
"Hey! Missed hearing from you this week, but it's ok! I don't have much time, but I hope everything has gone alright. We've been working really hard and have passed all sort of trials, but there are even more people to find here. We're really excited for Conference and we praying for the people we're teaching. I still would like to know what's going on with the big move, I hope everything is ok at home. Well, I was thinking about the letter I sent to Cody, really what Dawn Hans said. Really all the credit goes to Our Heavenly Father, we're so blessed to be such a tight family, after all that has passed. I thank God for this opportunity to show Him how much I appreciate the blessing we've received. Thanks for allowing God to bless our lives. Well, love you all and I'll hear from you next week!
-Elder Butterfield
"Hey! Missed hearing from you this week, but it's ok! I don't have much time, but I hope everything has gone alright. We've been working really hard and have passed all sort of trials, but there are even more people to find here. We're really excited for Conference and we praying for the people we're teaching. I still would like to know what's going on with the big move, I hope everything is ok at home. Well, I was thinking about the letter I sent to Cody, really what Dawn Hans said. Really all the credit goes to Our Heavenly Father, we're so blessed to be such a tight family, after all that has passed. I thank God for this opportunity to show Him how much I appreciate the blessing we've received. Thanks for allowing God to bless our lives. Well, love you all and I'll hear from you next week!
-Elder Butterfield
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Week 28
Well is it week 28 and things are moving right along. It won't be long before it is Mother's day and I will actually get to talk to Jacob. I was able to go to the temple this last week and guess what name I had a lady that was from Mexico born in the 1700's God does work in mysterious ways. Here is Jacob's latest letter/
"Well, another week come and gone, but what a special week it was. I only heard a little bit from an investigator about the earthquake in Japan. Was it really big or something? My friend, Mike, is in the Sendai mission; maybe the earthquake was in a different part of the country. I'm confident the Lord watched over His servants. The weather is scorching, a little breeze is lovely, but they're few and far between. Well, this week I welcomed in my new companion Elder Flores. He has served for only 7 months, so we're a pretty young companionship. He's from Chihuahua, where the gangs are very rough. We're looking forward to great things in this area, after a great start. We were able to baptize a teenager, Omar, and two girls, America and Amairany. Omar finally got permission from his mom to get baptized, and he's going to be an amazing convert. I told him that we're going to be friends forever, and his baptism was the first step. Well, I'm really loving it out here, it's a special place and a special time to be a missionary. Love you all, and I'll hear from you next week!
-Elder Butterfield
"Well, another week come and gone, but what a special week it was. I only heard a little bit from an investigator about the earthquake in Japan. Was it really big or something? My friend, Mike, is in the Sendai mission; maybe the earthquake was in a different part of the country. I'm confident the Lord watched over His servants. The weather is scorching, a little breeze is lovely, but they're few and far between. Well, this week I welcomed in my new companion Elder Flores. He has served for only 7 months, so we're a pretty young companionship. He's from Chihuahua, where the gangs are very rough. We're looking forward to great things in this area, after a great start. We were able to baptize a teenager, Omar, and two girls, America and Amairany. Omar finally got permission from his mom to get baptized, and he's going to be an amazing convert. I told him that we're going to be friends forever, and his baptism was the first step. Well, I'm really loving it out here, it's a special place and a special time to be a missionary. Love you all, and I'll hear from you next week!
-Elder Butterfield
New Members
This picture is of Jacob and his companion and Omar, America, Amairany they were all baptized after getting permission from their parents.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Week 27
Well week 27 has come and past and it really seems hard to believe. I am anxious to hear Jacob on the phone which will happen on Mother's day. I can't wait. He just seems to keep growing more and more with each letter. He is such and example to me and also an inspiration. Here is his latest email.
"It's not always easy standing up for what you believe, but it's the right thing to do. I've been learning that recently as I've been reading Jesus the Christ. This week we really pushed hard to teach, to find and to baptize. I found out that my companion is leaving to be a District Leader and that I will stay in the area and receive my new companion, Elder Flores. A few tough things happened this week, and I really think it's time for a change in our area. We were blessed to baptize a daughter of God who has been prepared for quite some time. Cristina, a 19 year old, who attends Institute was baptized this Saturday after a final test. Appearently her sister is very Catholic, and did some nasty things to Cristina so that she wouldn't get baptized. We met with Cristina the Friday before her baptism and she came in tears over what her sister had done. We read a few words from 3 Nephi 11, really the testimony of God the Father, and of His Son, Jesus Christ. When combined with the words the Hold Ghost gave us, Cristina accepted her commitment to God and stood up for her beliefs (or really knowledge). My mission is really looking up, we went to see some old pyramids today and I'll send you all kinds of photos next week. I'm really excited to receive a new companion and ready to get down to work here in Poza Rica. Also, who wants to hear a funny story? Well, today we went to the pyramids called ''Tajin'' (look it up) and there happened to be a tourist their who was the only other white guy in the whole park. He came up and talked with my about all the missionaries he's seen in all parts of the world. I wanted to talk to him, but it was nearly impossible to speak English! Just about everytime I opened my mouth, only Spanish came out. The man was from Manchester, England and really a nice guy. Maybe someday the missionaries will talk to him in his home. Well, thanks for writing me and telling me what's going on at home. Love you all and can't wait to hear from you next week!"
-Elder Butterfield
On Sun, Mar 6, 2011 at 7:06 PM, < rbutter@charter.net> wrote:
"It's not always easy standing up for what you believe, but it's the right thing to do. I've been learning that recently as I've been reading Jesus the Christ. This week we really pushed hard to teach, to find and to baptize. I found out that my companion is leaving to be a District Leader and that I will stay in the area and receive my new companion, Elder Flores. A few tough things happened this week, and I really think it's time for a change in our area. We were blessed to baptize a daughter of God who has been prepared for quite some time. Cristina, a 19 year old, who attends Institute was baptized this Saturday after a final test. Appearently her sister is very Catholic, and did some nasty things to Cristina so that she wouldn't get baptized. We met with Cristina the Friday before her baptism and she came in tears over what her sister had done. We read a few words from 3 Nephi 11, really the testimony of God the Father, and of His Son, Jesus Christ. When combined with the words the Hold Ghost gave us, Cristina accepted her commitment to God and stood up for her beliefs (or really knowledge). My mission is really looking up, we went to see some old pyramids today and I'll send you all kinds of photos next week. I'm really excited to receive a new companion and ready to get down to work here in Poza Rica. Also, who wants to hear a funny story? Well, today we went to the pyramids called ''Tajin'' (look it up) and there happened to be a tourist their who was the only other white guy in the whole park. He came up and talked with my about all the missionaries he's seen in all parts of the world. I wanted to talk to him, but it was nearly impossible to speak English! Just about everytime I opened my mouth, only Spanish came out. The man was from Manchester, England and really a nice guy. Maybe someday the missionaries will talk to him in his home. Well, thanks for writing me and telling me what's going on at home. Love you all and can't wait to hear from you next week!"
-Elder Butterfield
On Sun, Mar 6, 2011 at 7:06 PM, < rbutter@charter.net> wrote:
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Week 26
This weeks letter was very moving because it was literally written for someone in the family that is having a rough time because their views are different from the views that are the most vocal around the state. It is always hard to be on the opposing side but we must stand for what we believe. Know one will ever be able to tell me that there isn't inspiration and divine intervention. Here is this weeks letter!
"I always get really emotional reading your letters. It's something else, that's all I can say. I really expected to receive an email about Maddie one of these days, and here it is. She was a good pup, I could've treated her better, but she will be missed. Sounds like she had all kinds of problems and really couldn't live much longer. What really got me from this letter was the news about Madison. Hate is so ugly and completely contrary to what God wants His children to experience. We had the Area Seventy over the entire country of Mexico, President Daniel Johnson, come and speak to us this week. It was really something else, he didn't give a discourse or anything, but slowly guided us through a chat on faith. In thie end, everyone in the room was edified, and something different passed over all of us. There were certain points to his visit that we had to understand, but really just an amazing spirit. Something that struck me was a remark by his wife. She talked briefly about the emotion of God, and how sad He is for His children. In the book of Moses, Enoc sees God crying, and can't comprehend it. The All-Powerful Being brought to tears, because His children hate one another over the worries of the world. I don't know if I can understand it either, but I want to change the way I look at others for this reason. Just yesterday, some guy on the street wanted to argue with me about politics. I was really upset with myself for arguing, but also because this man judged me without knowing a thing about me. The truth is that we do that every day, maybe not to such an extreme degree as verbal argument, but in our minds and in our hearts. When the hate is sufficient, no matter the reason, words and actions spring forth giving the devil more and more power until something drastic happens. Luckily for us, we ceased communication with this man and left him yelling, ''espérate!'' which means ''wait!'' It made me remember that Christ told His Apostles that they would be hated, but that they would receive a reward apart from the world. Although sometimes we are hated, for whatever reason, we just have to remember how short life is and how much we will miss if we worry about things of the world. If only the whole world focused on the life to come and not the life we live, I guess that's why there are missionaries. Christ never doesn't command anyone to not partake of His salvation, and He loves all with a perfect love of which I testify every day. Well, I think that I've ranted on too much today, but that's my feelings on the situation of the the world. Thanks for your prayers and support. Only 18 more months, I better use it the best I can!"
Con amor,
-Elder Butterfield
"I always get really emotional reading your letters. It's something else, that's all I can say. I really expected to receive an email about Maddie one of these days, and here it is. She was a good pup, I could've treated her better, but she will be missed. Sounds like she had all kinds of problems and really couldn't live much longer. What really got me from this letter was the news about Madison. Hate is so ugly and completely contrary to what God wants His children to experience. We had the Area Seventy over the entire country of Mexico, President Daniel Johnson, come and speak to us this week. It was really something else, he didn't give a discourse or anything, but slowly guided us through a chat on faith. In thie end, everyone in the room was edified, and something different passed over all of us. There were certain points to his visit that we had to understand, but really just an amazing spirit. Something that struck me was a remark by his wife. She talked briefly about the emotion of God, and how sad He is for His children. In the book of Moses, Enoc sees God crying, and can't comprehend it. The All-Powerful Being brought to tears, because His children hate one another over the worries of the world. I don't know if I can understand it either, but I want to change the way I look at others for this reason. Just yesterday, some guy on the street wanted to argue with me about politics. I was really upset with myself for arguing, but also because this man judged me without knowing a thing about me. The truth is that we do that every day, maybe not to such an extreme degree as verbal argument, but in our minds and in our hearts. When the hate is sufficient, no matter the reason, words and actions spring forth giving the devil more and more power until something drastic happens. Luckily for us, we ceased communication with this man and left him yelling, ''espérate!'' which means ''wait!'' It made me remember that Christ told His Apostles that they would be hated, but that they would receive a reward apart from the world. Although sometimes we are hated, for whatever reason, we just have to remember how short life is and how much we will miss if we worry about things of the world. If only the whole world focused on the life to come and not the life we live, I guess that's why there are missionaries. Christ never doesn't command anyone to not partake of His salvation, and He loves all with a perfect love of which I testify every day. Well, I think that I've ranted on too much today, but that's my feelings on the situation of the the world. Thanks for your prayers and support. Only 18 more months, I better use it the best I can!"
Con amor,
-Elder Butterfield
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Week 25
I can't believe that is it week 25 already. Jacob's mission is 1/4 of the way done. It truly has gone by pretty fast so far. Here is his latest email and a picture also.
" Well this week was phenominal, we basically spent the whole week looking for people to teach. In the end, we were left with very few people, but still a successful week. Two teenagers, who we met through service, got baptized this week. Their parents couldn't get baptized because they're not married (it might take up to a year for them to get married), but it was still a great experience. We really were unsure if they were going to get permission from their parents, so we brought an ex-missionary to the lesson before their baptism. With his help, we showed them how much they'd changed in two weeks, and that they were ready for baptism. We laid it all out, and most importantly, believed and prayed for them. In the end, the ex-missionary asked the boy (Josè Luis) if he wanted to get baptized, he said, ''sì'' and his dad said ''adelante'' (forward). Later his sister, Diana decided to enter into this covenant with God. We baptized them on Saturday, and they were confirmed on Sunday. Really, this story is a testament to the value of service. All we did was help their mom put in a brick in the walkway to their house, and two weeks later, two teenagers in white. What a great experience, in my mission, it's become appearent that helping people is what we do. I really love being out here, and it doesn't matter what happens anywhere else. My mission has changed, and really saved my life and my salvation. I love you all, but I can wait until I see you all again, for now, people are depending on us!
con amor,
Elder Butterfield
" Well this week was phenominal, we basically spent the whole week looking for people to teach. In the end, we were left with very few people, but still a successful week. Two teenagers, who we met through service, got baptized this week. Their parents couldn't get baptized because they're not married (it might take up to a year for them to get married), but it was still a great experience. We really were unsure if they were going to get permission from their parents, so we brought an ex-missionary to the lesson before their baptism. With his help, we showed them how much they'd changed in two weeks, and that they were ready for baptism. We laid it all out, and most importantly, believed and prayed for them. In the end, the ex-missionary asked the boy (Josè Luis) if he wanted to get baptized, he said, ''sì'' and his dad said ''adelante'' (forward). Later his sister, Diana decided to enter into this covenant with God. We baptized them on Saturday, and they were confirmed on Sunday. Really, this story is a testament to the value of service. All we did was help their mom put in a brick in the walkway to their house, and two weeks later, two teenagers in white. What a great experience, in my mission, it's become appearent that helping people is what we do. I really love being out here, and it doesn't matter what happens anywhere else. My mission has changed, and really saved my life and my salvation. I love you all, but I can wait until I see you all again, for now, people are depending on us!
con amor,
Elder Butterfield
Monday, February 21, 2011
Week 24
It is hard to believe that next week I will be writing week 25. Jacob will be a quarter of the way done with his mission. It is hard to believe. This week past week would be a week that Jacob would have loved. Madison has been in the national news because the governor of the state is trying to make cuts to the budget and do away with collective bargaining. There have been protests on both sides. This is something that Jacob would just eat up. Well I am sure he will give me his opinion in his next email. Here is his latest email.
"Happy Valentine's Day! Or as they say it here: feliz dìa del amor y amistad! It's pretty funny today, everyone has balloons and letters from their ''novios.'' Well, life is going great, the mission is really looking up and I'm glad to be a part of it. Our companionship is really strong. Don't worry about me, I have a coat and a lot of blankets, it's really been fine. Some pretty cool stuff happened this week, I got the package you sent me and a bunch of other letters too! Thanks so much for all the letters and support! I'm actually looking forward to writing back to all of them, including to Jalea. Also, my friends from SigEp mailed me a t-shirt and letters, and my buddy Mike (serving his mission in Japan) sent me a letter too! It's been a great week, and we're really going to do all we can to baptize this week! It's such a blessing to hear from you all every week. Even though I have so many things to work on and fix, Heavenly Father pours out blessings in His infinite mercy. Thanks for supporting me in all of my trials and teaching me what it really means to have a happy family. I love you all, and I know how much I need to work to really deserve a family like you all.
Con amor,
Elder Butterfield
"Happy Valentine's Day! Or as they say it here: feliz dìa del amor y amistad! It's pretty funny today, everyone has balloons and letters from their ''novios.'' Well, life is going great, the mission is really looking up and I'm glad to be a part of it. Our companionship is really strong. Don't worry about me, I have a coat and a lot of blankets, it's really been fine. Some pretty cool stuff happened this week, I got the package you sent me and a bunch of other letters too! Thanks so much for all the letters and support! I'm actually looking forward to writing back to all of them, including to Jalea. Also, my friends from SigEp mailed me a t-shirt and letters, and my buddy Mike (serving his mission in Japan) sent me a letter too! It's been a great week, and we're really going to do all we can to baptize this week! It's such a blessing to hear from you all every week. Even though I have so many things to work on and fix, Heavenly Father pours out blessings in His infinite mercy. Thanks for supporting me in all of my trials and teaching me what it really means to have a happy family. I love you all, and I know how much I need to work to really deserve a family like you all.
Con amor,
Elder Butterfield
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Week 23
This last email was a little hard for me to read. I don't like the fact that Jacob doesn't have warm water and then he had to sleep in his coat because he was so cold. I know this is what mothers worry about. Here is his latest email. Read it and then tell me you don't feel just a little bad.
"Hahaha, thanks for the update. We went to a few houses last night, and all thought that the ''gringo'' would like to watch it. There was about 7 minutes left in the game when we had to go, I did all I could not to watch it! We actually went to the New Beginnings for about 20 minutes last week. Glad to hear you're able to attend the temple more regularly, it's great the service you're doing. A lot of members have commented on the snow all over the US this week. It seems to be something else. This week was actually freezing here in Poza Rica. On top of that, it was a very difficult week for the work. I'm starting to get used to the new area. We walked more this week than I've ever walked in my life. Our housing is pretty basic, the shower doesn't have hot water, so we fill up a bucket, put a hot iron rod in it, then bathe with a little bowl of water. Like I said, this week was something else down here. I could see my breath from the cold, and I slept in a coat. On top of that was the wet mist all over the city. We tried really hard to find people and bring them to church, but no one showed up. When church was about over, we found out that three of our investigators were waiting outside of the church. Moreover, one resently released missionary brought an investigator friend with him. It literally was a miracle! Probably one of the hardest weeks of my life, let alone my mission, but our Heavenly Father saw our struggles and provided us with answers to our prayers. Literally every piece fell into place this Sunday, and everything is looking up. I can't thank you all enough for your prayers and support. Don't worry about anything when it comes to me, I know I'm in the Lord's hands and nothing else matters. It's been an amazing week, and this week will be even better. Love you all, and God bless. Talk to you in one week!
-Elder Butterfield
PS: GO PACK GO!
"Hahaha, thanks for the update. We went to a few houses last night, and all thought that the ''gringo'' would like to watch it. There was about 7 minutes left in the game when we had to go, I did all I could not to watch it! We actually went to the New Beginnings for about 20 minutes last week. Glad to hear you're able to attend the temple more regularly, it's great the service you're doing. A lot of members have commented on the snow all over the US this week. It seems to be something else. This week was actually freezing here in Poza Rica. On top of that, it was a very difficult week for the work. I'm starting to get used to the new area. We walked more this week than I've ever walked in my life. Our housing is pretty basic, the shower doesn't have hot water, so we fill up a bucket, put a hot iron rod in it, then bathe with a little bowl of water. Like I said, this week was something else down here. I could see my breath from the cold, and I slept in a coat. On top of that was the wet mist all over the city. We tried really hard to find people and bring them to church, but no one showed up. When church was about over, we found out that three of our investigators were waiting outside of the church. Moreover, one resently released missionary brought an investigator friend with him. It literally was a miracle! Probably one of the hardest weeks of my life, let alone my mission, but our Heavenly Father saw our struggles and provided us with answers to our prayers. Literally every piece fell into place this Sunday, and everything is looking up. I can't thank you all enough for your prayers and support. Don't worry about anything when it comes to me, I know I'm in the Lord's hands and nothing else matters. It's been an amazing week, and this week will be even better. Love you all, and God bless. Talk to you in one week!
-Elder Butterfield
PS: GO PACK GO!
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Week 22
Whoa it is week 22 I can't believe it. Jacob has been out 5 months already and has had his first transfer. Here is his latest letter.
"Hello everyone! I'm writing you from sunny Poza Rica, Veracruz, Mexico. On Tuesday morning, I boarded a bus to Veracruz, then from Veracruz to Poza Rica. It was a long trip (about 7 hours total), but it's great to be here! My companion is Elder Ramirez, he's only been out for 7 months in his mission, but we teach really well together. I'm blessed to have such a humble and obedient companion. The area I'm in is absolutely enormous, and we certainly haven't been able to cover all of it in these 6 days. The city of Poza Rica is a big oil city, and a lot of the people work for the Mexican oil company Pemex. The environment is somewhat smelly, but the city is nicer. The church is really nice, and we have big plans for baptizing in ths area. Thanks for all of the updates, it's hard to believe that I've already been out for 5 months! It was pretty tough leaving my last area, especially when I was starting to get used to everything, and say good bye to out converts. I hear it's the hardest thing in the mission, and I know why they say that. Interesting news from the sports world, and unfortunately, I won't be able to watch the Packers win this Sunday! Surprisingly, quite a few people are interested in American Football down here, but soccer reigns supreme. There are some interesting celebrations and interests, but for the most part, people want a family. It's been a great week in my mission and an incredible month in the Veracruz mission. This month, the mission baptized 282 people, which is just something else. I'm working hard to do my part and I know the Lord will continue to bless us for it. Sometimes it's difficult to express myself here, especially in Spanish, but even then, I know I'm doing what I should be. I love you all unbelievably much, and I love our Heavenly Father for blessing us so ubundantly. Keep up the good work on your end, and I will on mine.
Con amor,
Elder Butterfield
P.S. GO PACK GO!
"Hello everyone! I'm writing you from sunny Poza Rica, Veracruz, Mexico. On Tuesday morning, I boarded a bus to Veracruz, then from Veracruz to Poza Rica. It was a long trip (about 7 hours total), but it's great to be here! My companion is Elder Ramirez, he's only been out for 7 months in his mission, but we teach really well together. I'm blessed to have such a humble and obedient companion. The area I'm in is absolutely enormous, and we certainly haven't been able to cover all of it in these 6 days. The city of Poza Rica is a big oil city, and a lot of the people work for the Mexican oil company Pemex. The environment is somewhat smelly, but the city is nicer. The church is really nice, and we have big plans for baptizing in ths area. Thanks for all of the updates, it's hard to believe that I've already been out for 5 months! It was pretty tough leaving my last area, especially when I was starting to get used to everything, and say good bye to out converts. I hear it's the hardest thing in the mission, and I know why they say that. Interesting news from the sports world, and unfortunately, I won't be able to watch the Packers win this Sunday! Surprisingly, quite a few people are interested in American Football down here, but soccer reigns supreme. There are some interesting celebrations and interests, but for the most part, people want a family. It's been a great week in my mission and an incredible month in the Veracruz mission. This month, the mission baptized 282 people, which is just something else. I'm working hard to do my part and I know the Lord will continue to bless us for it. Sometimes it's difficult to express myself here, especially in Spanish, but even then, I know I'm doing what I should be. I love you all unbelievably much, and I love our Heavenly Father for blessing us so ubundantly. Keep up the good work on your end, and I will on mine.
Con amor,
Elder Butterfield
P.S. GO PACK GO!
Monday, January 31, 2011
Week 21
I can't believe that we are at week 21 before I know it Jacob will have been out a quarter of his time. With each email that we receive from him we see the growth and progress he is making. Sometimes I can't believe that this is that little blonde haired boy. Well here is his latest email with some interesting news.
"Wow, sounds like quite the week back home! Our week was certainly no less exciting here. I heard right away that the Pack are headed to the Super Bowl this year, so I was pretty happy about that. It would make sense that they would make it all the way the year that I'm on a mission! Thanks for the package! Can't wait to get it! Well, I got my new assignment this week, and I'm a beyond excited for it! President told me that I'm going to an area in the city of Poza Rica, called Petromex. My trainer (Elder Schilhabel) was just there, and he said there is something special about that area. From what I've heard, it's an area that's much more modern than San Andrès (it has a Sam's Club) and the ward is very strong. I'm going to get a native companion, and we're going to work our butts off! That's the big news this week, so definitely something to look forward to. Anyway, this week, we also married (set up the marriage) an investigator and baptized her with 6 members of her family! In total, our companionship baptized 10 people this week! And on top of that, we had a ''bautizona'' or when everyone in the zone baptizes in the same week! The mission as a whole has really been uphill this month, so things are really looking up. I attached a photo of this family, so you can see how much the Lord has blessed us. It has really been a special week, I'm going to miss this area a lot. Some of the members put together a little going away party for us, and I promised them that I would return! One day, you might get to meet these great members and experience the special feeling for yourselves! Well, I can't thank you all for the love, support and prayers you've given me. Love you all!
-Elder Butterfield
"Wow, sounds like quite the week back home! Our week was certainly no less exciting here. I heard right away that the Pack are headed to the Super Bowl this year, so I was pretty happy about that. It would make sense that they would make it all the way the year that I'm on a mission! Thanks for the package! Can't wait to get it! Well, I got my new assignment this week, and I'm a beyond excited for it! President told me that I'm going to an area in the city of Poza Rica, called Petromex. My trainer (Elder Schilhabel) was just there, and he said there is something special about that area. From what I've heard, it's an area that's much more modern than San Andrès (it has a Sam's Club) and the ward is very strong. I'm going to get a native companion, and we're going to work our butts off! That's the big news this week, so definitely something to look forward to. Anyway, this week, we also married (set up the marriage) an investigator and baptized her with 6 members of her family! In total, our companionship baptized 10 people this week! And on top of that, we had a ''bautizona'' or when everyone in the zone baptizes in the same week! The mission as a whole has really been uphill this month, so things are really looking up. I attached a photo of this family, so you can see how much the Lord has blessed us. It has really been a special week, I'm going to miss this area a lot. Some of the members put together a little going away party for us, and I promised them that I would return! One day, you might get to meet these great members and experience the special feeling for yourselves! Well, I can't thank you all for the love, support and prayers you've given me. Love you all!
-Elder Butterfield
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Week 20
This week was another milestone for us. It was Jacob's 20th birthday on Friday and the first birthday that we haven't been able to talk with him on his big day. I just keep focusing on all I have left is one more birthday and then he will be home. I know that is another year but it will fly by right? Well here is his latest letter and sometimes I am so amazed at how much he has grown as a person.
"Ya, it's tough to believe it's already my birthday, and my 6 month mark is nearing next transfer. My companion shares the same birthday, so our investigators are going to throw us a little fiesta. Haha, President filled us in that the Pack are headed to the NFC title game (I say they're going to win it all) but it's going to be quite a game against the Bears. That's great that you two are doing this wonderful work for those who don't have a chance. I really want to go through the Veracruz temple with you all sometime in the future. Anyone who asks about me can send a letter for 79 cents and it will definitely get to me. I'm going to send some letters home, can you distribute them to who I write? Well, this week was something else. I feel like the writers of The Book of Mormon, not a hundreth part of what I've experienced can be written in this letter. Here's a summary though: On Tuesday, there was a flash flood. Water completely filled the streets up to six inches, and the one appointment we had wouldn't let us in her house. The next few days were very chilly and rainy, I actually wore a long sleeved shirt! We received a reference from the sisters on Friday, and we were led to an area about 20 minutes away from the center of our area. We took a camineta (ride in the back of a truck) up to the top of this community. No missionaries had ever touched this community of roughly a few thousand. From the summit, you can see all of San Andrés (I'll send pictures next week) and a lot more too. Anyway, we had a little trouble finding the reference, but we tracted into her parents and they let us in to teach. As we sat down, 11 other members of this family showed up, a total of 5 generations! Appearently, there are 30 members of this family in total, and all of the ones that we taught accepted baptismal dates. We gave them some money, and all of them showed up to church on Sunday! The members greeted them with a warm welcome. We might end up starting a branch in that community, but we'll just have to see. As we walked down the street in this community, everyone was staring at us like they had never seen missionaries before. I really would like to get to work up there, but on Saturday, President Hansen was in town and told me that my next area will be Petromex in Poza Rica. From what I've heard, it's on the complete opposite side of the state (3 hours north) and it's a very strong ward. Great things await as Heavenly Father continues to pour out his blessings upon his servants. I've decided to solely study the misionary lessons this week, to get my Spanish to a higher level, and I know Heavenly Father will bless me as I continue to strive. Finally, this week we were privileged to have two baptisms of youth. I baptized a 16 year old chica named Paloma (means Dove in English) and my companion baptized a 16 year old chico named Ruben. I look forward to filling you in about all of our converts more fully, but just know that the Lord can touch a person's heart and change them in an instance. I know because I've seen it happen in so many people, and I've felt it in my own heart too. Miracles literally happen in these last days, I can testify before anyone that I have seen them. Even when I've doubted, my eyes have been open to a greater understanding than I could have ever known by myself. I'm a different person than I used to be, and it won't change when I take off the tag in 19 months. I love you all, and I can't express the gratitude for the blessing I've received and miracles I see daily. Thank you for all that you have done in my life, and I've never been happier before!
Con amor,
Élder Butterfield
"Ya, it's tough to believe it's already my birthday, and my 6 month mark is nearing next transfer. My companion shares the same birthday, so our investigators are going to throw us a little fiesta. Haha, President filled us in that the Pack are headed to the NFC title game (I say they're going to win it all) but it's going to be quite a game against the Bears. That's great that you two are doing this wonderful work for those who don't have a chance. I really want to go through the Veracruz temple with you all sometime in the future. Anyone who asks about me can send a letter for 79 cents and it will definitely get to me. I'm going to send some letters home, can you distribute them to who I write? Well, this week was something else. I feel like the writers of The Book of Mormon, not a hundreth part of what I've experienced can be written in this letter. Here's a summary though: On Tuesday, there was a flash flood. Water completely filled the streets up to six inches, and the one appointment we had wouldn't let us in her house. The next few days were very chilly and rainy, I actually wore a long sleeved shirt! We received a reference from the sisters on Friday, and we were led to an area about 20 minutes away from the center of our area. We took a camineta (ride in the back of a truck) up to the top of this community. No missionaries had ever touched this community of roughly a few thousand. From the summit, you can see all of San Andrés (I'll send pictures next week) and a lot more too. Anyway, we had a little trouble finding the reference, but we tracted into her parents and they let us in to teach. As we sat down, 11 other members of this family showed up, a total of 5 generations! Appearently, there are 30 members of this family in total, and all of the ones that we taught accepted baptismal dates. We gave them some money, and all of them showed up to church on Sunday! The members greeted them with a warm welcome. We might end up starting a branch in that community, but we'll just have to see. As we walked down the street in this community, everyone was staring at us like they had never seen missionaries before. I really would like to get to work up there, but on Saturday, President Hansen was in town and told me that my next area will be Petromex in Poza Rica. From what I've heard, it's on the complete opposite side of the state (3 hours north) and it's a very strong ward. Great things await as Heavenly Father continues to pour out his blessings upon his servants. I've decided to solely study the misionary lessons this week, to get my Spanish to a higher level, and I know Heavenly Father will bless me as I continue to strive. Finally, this week we were privileged to have two baptisms of youth. I baptized a 16 year old chica named Paloma (means Dove in English) and my companion baptized a 16 year old chico named Ruben. I look forward to filling you in about all of our converts more fully, but just know that the Lord can touch a person's heart and change them in an instance. I know because I've seen it happen in so many people, and I've felt it in my own heart too. Miracles literally happen in these last days, I can testify before anyone that I have seen them. Even when I've doubted, my eyes have been open to a greater understanding than I could have ever known by myself. I'm a different person than I used to be, and it won't change when I take off the tag in 19 months. I love you all, and I can't express the gratitude for the blessing I've received and miracles I see daily. Thank you for all that you have done in my life, and I've never been happier before!
Con amor,
Élder Butterfield
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Week 19
Another week has flown by and we are to week 19 already. Not much to report on our end this week. It truly is like people say the time passes by quickly. Here is the latest email from Jacob.
Is"s been quite a week here in Los Tuxtlas, and only two more weeks until my next transfer! It's assured that I will be transfered, but I know nothing more than that as of yet. I only have 5 pages left in The Book of Mormon, then I get to read it in Spanish! Certainly another week of miracles. Well this week was certabeat me when I get home! inly enjoyable, but somewhat stressful at the same time. President Hansen came and visited us in our district class on Tuesday, his message was very inspriring, and the whole zone got to work this week. We had been waiting on this one sister to get baptized, but she never could because she worked ever Sunday. Last week, she was able to come to church for the second time, so she was set for her baptism. This woman, her name is Rocio, is a single mother (her husband lives in Mexico City) and we baptized all of her boys already (except for Max who's only 6). She works everyday for 60 pesos per day, which is about $5, and lives in a very humble abode. This Saturday, as we went to get her for her baptism, we found out that she was very ill. She had a high fever and a headache, and didn't know if she could make it to her baptism. My companions (I was at the church with other missionaries waiting for them) gave her a blessing and brought her down for her baptism. After the ordinance, we sent her home to rest. This Sunday, she showed up to church completely healed and received her comfirmation. The Lord prepares people in every circumstance imaginable, blessed are the humble and the meek. Rocio and her family know the truth, and whatever their circumstance, the Lord will bless them for their faithfulness. I feel great when I write and share these experiences. I hope you feel great too when you read them. Love you all, can't wait to hear from you soon!
-Elder Butterfield
Is"s been quite a week here in Los Tuxtlas, and only two more weeks until my next transfer! It's assured that I will be transfered, but I know nothing more than that as of yet. I only have 5 pages left in The Book of Mormon, then I get to read it in Spanish! Certainly another week of miracles. Well this week was certabeat me when I get home! inly enjoyable, but somewhat stressful at the same time. President Hansen came and visited us in our district class on Tuesday, his message was very inspriring, and the whole zone got to work this week. We had been waiting on this one sister to get baptized, but she never could because she worked ever Sunday. Last week, she was able to come to church for the second time, so she was set for her baptism. This woman, her name is Rocio, is a single mother (her husband lives in Mexico City) and we baptized all of her boys already (except for Max who's only 6). She works everyday for 60 pesos per day, which is about $5, and lives in a very humble abode. This Saturday, as we went to get her for her baptism, we found out that she was very ill. She had a high fever and a headache, and didn't know if she could make it to her baptism. My companions (I was at the church with other missionaries waiting for them) gave her a blessing and brought her down for her baptism. After the ordinance, we sent her home to rest. This Sunday, she showed up to church completely healed and received her comfirmation. The Lord prepares people in every circumstance imaginable, blessed are the humble and the meek. Rocio and her family know the truth, and whatever their circumstance, the Lord will bless them for their faithfulness. I feel great when I write and share these experiences. I hope you feel great too when you read them. Love you all, can't wait to hear from you soon!
-Elder Butterfield
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Week 18
Four months have passed and it really has gone by quickly. It seems that I no sooner get done emailing him for the week and it is time to do it again. I feel that we past a major mile stone by getting through our first Christmas without him with us. There were several times where someone would say Jacob would do this or say this. He is really our comic relief sometimes and we all missed that this year. I was able to purchase a few things for him at Christmas and they will be waiting for him when he returns. He latest email is one full of miracles and I can definitely see the Lord's hand in directing his life. I sure once you read his letter you will agree with me. Here it is.
"It was a wonderful Christmas and a great New Years too! Mexico is a little crazy from mid-December to mid-Jan, but definietly still paradise. I'm all set here, nothing I could really use, unless other people want to send letters with the package. Well anyway, it's been a week of miracles for me. I'm considering keeping a separate record of the miracles I've come to see every day. Earlier this week, we were going to our lunch appointment in a taxi, when we arrived, we saw an elderly man on the ground convulsing. There was no one around to help him. We got out of the taxi and flipped him over, then carried him to some shade and rested his head on a bag. A group of people formed and we waited until the ambulance came. Appearently, he fell, bumped his head (it was bleeding) and couldn't get up by his own strength. Two days ago, we found out that a yound girl we taught was sick in the hospital with appendix problems. When her neighbors brought her to the hoispital, she asked for ''los Mormones'' even before her parents. We arrived to give her a blessing, but we couldn't see her immediately. As we waited, a man came running in with a teenage girl in his hands, she was visably weak. He set her down and we gave her a blessing, before they took her in. Finally, this Sunday, Carmen bore her testimony in Sacrament meeting. She said we knocked her door when she needed the most help. Later that day, we went to visit with her for a short while. Her friend Daeli (who we also baptized) was there too. Carmen and Daeli shared with us their experiences at their baptismal service. When Daeli touched my hand in the font, she said that she saw spirits around us and they were congratulating her decision. Likewise, when Carmen came up out of the water, she saw angels and sprits all around. They were blessing us missionaries. It's absolutely true. I know it and Heavenly Father knows it too. I'm exactly where I need to be, as one of God's army!
-Elder Butterfield
"It was a wonderful Christmas and a great New Years too! Mexico is a little crazy from mid-December to mid-Jan, but definietly still paradise. I'm all set here, nothing I could really use, unless other people want to send letters with the package. Well anyway, it's been a week of miracles for me. I'm considering keeping a separate record of the miracles I've come to see every day. Earlier this week, we were going to our lunch appointment in a taxi, when we arrived, we saw an elderly man on the ground convulsing. There was no one around to help him. We got out of the taxi and flipped him over, then carried him to some shade and rested his head on a bag. A group of people formed and we waited until the ambulance came. Appearently, he fell, bumped his head (it was bleeding) and couldn't get up by his own strength. Two days ago, we found out that a yound girl we taught was sick in the hospital with appendix problems. When her neighbors brought her to the hoispital, she asked for ''los Mormones'' even before her parents. We arrived to give her a blessing, but we couldn't see her immediately. As we waited, a man came running in with a teenage girl in his hands, she was visably weak. He set her down and we gave her a blessing, before they took her in. Finally, this Sunday, Carmen bore her testimony in Sacrament meeting. She said we knocked her door when she needed the most help. Later that day, we went to visit with her for a short while. Her friend Daeli (who we also baptized) was there too. Carmen and Daeli shared with us their experiences at their baptismal service. When Daeli touched my hand in the font, she said that she saw spirits around us and they were congratulating her decision. Likewise, when Carmen came up out of the water, she saw angels and sprits all around. They were blessing us missionaries. It's absolutely true. I know it and Heavenly Father knows it too. I'm exactly where I need to be, as one of God's army!
-Elder Butterfield
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