Where is Elder Monk serving now? Is California still in an uproar from the elections? How IS Elder Monk? - I know I have been slacking on my blog postings, but I will get better.
1.) Elder Monk is still in Burbank. Transfers were last Monday and him and Elder Uceda both continue to serve together in Burbank. Dave was very happy to receive the opportunity to continue his work there because he felt that he still had more to do there. They have a few 'key' investigators that they are trying to extend commitments to and we continue to pray for there success. He will do great!!
2.) He stated in his email sent today that "things finally seem to have settled down a little after the few weeks after the election." Elder Monk also discussed that with all the recent publicity of the church it has given them more opportunities to share their beliefs. He is hopeful good things will come from these experiences.
"I would say that one of mortality's great tests comes when our beliefs are questioned or criticized. In such moments, we may want to respond aggressively – to put up our dukes . But these are important opportunities to step back, pray, and follow the Savior's example. Remember, Jesus Himself was despised and rejected by the world. And in Lehi's dream, those coming to the Savior also endured 'mocking and pointing … fingers' (1 Nephi 8:27). 'The world hath hated [my disciples],' Jesus said, 'because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world' (John 17:14). But when we respond to our accusers as the Savior did, we not only become more Christlike, we invite others to feel His love and follow Him as well."
- Elder Robert D. Hales
Though the riots and chaos in California have been tough, Elder Monk and his companion are taking all the opportunitites they are given to share the gospel to all. What great missionaries?!
3.) So, how IS Elder Monk doing...? He is really doing great!! All of his letters and emails lately have been wonderful! He has definitely adjusted to his mission completely and feels like a missionary. He continues to love the work and love the people he is serving. He also really has enjoyed serving with all the missionaries in his area and has talked about the farewell missionary testimony meetings a few times now as highlights thus far. He seems to have wonderful examples around him. The work is progressing and Elder Monk is a part of that...
His thought to me this week:
"'The Standard of Truth has been errected, no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing. The Truth of God shall go forth boldly, nobley, and independant, till it has penetrated every continant, visited every climb, swept every country, and sounded in every ear; till the purposes of God shall be accomplished, and the great Jehova shall say the work is done'"
- Joseph Smith
"This quote was given in the very beginings of the church, when there were only a handful of members. At the time this prophesy was probably incomprehendable, but look at the church now! It has gone forth boldly, on every continent, and has almost sounded in every ear. I am gratefull for the Truth of God that we have and I pray that it will coninue to go forth."
Monday, November 24, 2008
Monday, November 10, 2008
"For I am not ashamed..."
As many of you know a lot of chaos has been happening in California this week due to Proposition 8. With Elder Monk serving in the Burbank area, he has witnessed a lot of the excitement that has taken place. The church has taken most of the criticism for the marriage amendment passing and has been blamed by many for the reason the vote passed. As a result, Elder Monk has witnessed some of the opposition to the amendment passing within his area.
In his email to me this week he gave me a great scripture that has helped him deal with the opposition he and the other members may be experiencing:
Romans 1:16
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth...
We cannot be ashamed of what we believe in. We must stand up for our values and fight for what is right. This is the Church of Jesus Christ and we must hold fast to what is true.
Elder Monk also quoted a great talk from Elder Neal A. Maxwell that has helped him:
"Make no mistake about it, brothers and sisters, in the months and years ahead, events are likely to require each member to decide whether or not they will follow the First Presidency. Members will find it more difficult to halt longer between two opinions. President Marion G. Romney said, many years ago, that he had 'never hesitated to follow the counsel of the Authorities of the Church even though it crossed my social, professional or political life.'
"This is hard doctrine, but it is particularly vital doctrine in a society which is becoming more wicked. In short, brothers and sisters, not being ashamed ofthe gospel of Jesus Christ includes not being ashamed of the prophets of Jesus Christ. . . "
We must stand by our leaders and sustain them in all their decisions. We must stand by our values and beliefs and fight for what we KNOW to be true. This is a testing time but we must stick together and stand up!
In his email to me this week he gave me a great scripture that has helped him deal with the opposition he and the other members may be experiencing:
Romans 1:16
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth...
We cannot be ashamed of what we believe in. We must stand up for our values and fight for what is right. This is the Church of Jesus Christ and we must hold fast to what is true.
Elder Monk also quoted a great talk from Elder Neal A. Maxwell that has helped him:
"Make no mistake about it, brothers and sisters, in the months and years ahead, events are likely to require each member to decide whether or not they will follow the First Presidency. Members will find it more difficult to halt longer between two opinions. President Marion G. Romney said, many years ago, that he had 'never hesitated to follow the counsel of the Authorities of the Church even though it crossed my social, professional or political life.'
"This is hard doctrine, but it is particularly vital doctrine in a society which is becoming more wicked. In short, brothers and sisters, not being ashamed ofthe gospel of Jesus Christ includes not being ashamed of the prophets of Jesus Christ. . . "
We must stand by our leaders and sustain them in all their decisions. We must stand by our values and beliefs and fight for what we KNOW to be true. This is a testing time but we must stick together and stand up!
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
October is Over
Wow - I can't believe the month of October is gone already... Elder Monk has passed his 4 month mark!! Time is flying by...
So, Elder Monk is still serving the people of Burbank and loving them and the area. He has been teaching many wonderful people and even met a lot of celebrities while in Burbank.
David's past few weeks have been filled with service projects. Elder Monk and Elder Uceda, his trainer, have helped many less-active families with small projects, the community library set-up for a booksale and the local elementary school's Halloween party. The growth seen through Elder Monk's letters from his service to others is absolutely amazing... "I have really learned to love doing service. I love seeing the smiles on the faces of those people that we help and I can tell how grateful some of them are for the service. I really do love helping others and hope that you and I can always look for ways to serve, whether in the community, in the ward, or in our neighborhood." ... Charity is "the pure love of Christ" (Moroni 7:47) and through Elder Monk's letters one can see his testimony of this truth strengthen. You can see his sincere concern for the welfare and happiness of the Burbank people through his letters. He continues to grow more and more every week!
Another great verse Elder Monk shared with me this week was:
Romans 8:16-18
"The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us."
David stated he loved these verses because of the reminder that we are children of God and because of that we are heirs and entitled to receive everything that He has and to become like Him. But, he states that the last verse really stuck out to him... "We all go through suffering and struggles and times of difficulty in our lives. But our sufferings cannot even begin to compare with the glory that we will have if we endure them faithfully. Paul states that our sufferings are not even worthy to compare to the glory and reward we will recieve. That verse just makes me want to try a little harder and do a little better so I can prepare for the glory that lies ahead..." This is great advice for all - we all have struggles and difficult times in our lives but isn't that we were are here on this earth?! To be tried and tested and to be given opportunitites to grow... We all will go through difficult times, but our sufferings can not even be compared to our reward if we endure to the end. I am thankful for Elder Monk's sweet testimony and for his obedience to serve a mission. He is wonderful.
So, Elder Monk is still serving the people of Burbank and loving them and the area. He has been teaching many wonderful people and even met a lot of celebrities while in Burbank.
David's past few weeks have been filled with service projects. Elder Monk and Elder Uceda, his trainer, have helped many less-active families with small projects, the community library set-up for a booksale and the local elementary school's Halloween party. The growth seen through Elder Monk's letters from his service to others is absolutely amazing... "I have really learned to love doing service. I love seeing the smiles on the faces of those people that we help and I can tell how grateful some of them are for the service. I really do love helping others and hope that you and I can always look for ways to serve, whether in the community, in the ward, or in our neighborhood." ... Charity is "the pure love of Christ" (Moroni 7:47) and through Elder Monk's letters one can see his testimony of this truth strengthen. You can see his sincere concern for the welfare and happiness of the Burbank people through his letters. He continues to grow more and more every week!
Another great verse Elder Monk shared with me this week was:
Romans 8:16-18
"The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us."
David stated he loved these verses because of the reminder that we are children of God and because of that we are heirs and entitled to receive everything that He has and to become like Him. But, he states that the last verse really stuck out to him... "We all go through suffering and struggles and times of difficulty in our lives. But our sufferings cannot even begin to compare with the glory that we will have if we endure them faithfully. Paul states that our sufferings are not even worthy to compare to the glory and reward we will recieve. That verse just makes me want to try a little harder and do a little better so I can prepare for the glory that lies ahead..." This is great advice for all - we all have struggles and difficult times in our lives but isn't that we were are here on this earth?! To be tried and tested and to be given opportunitites to grow... We all will go through difficult times, but our sufferings can not even be compared to our reward if we endure to the end. I am thankful for Elder Monk's sweet testimony and for his obedience to serve a mission. He is wonderful.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Happy
Another week has gone by... I can't believe in 5 days Elder Monk will be in the field for FOUR MONTHS!! He is already 1/6 of the way through his mission. Time is flying.
Elder Monk's letters lately have been great!! He sounds wonderful and so happy. He loves his area and the people he is teaching. He loves his companion and other missionary friends. He loves the work he is teaching and knows of its truthfulness. He just sounds so happy!!
His letter last week was very entertaining. He has had some interesting investigator/ contacting experiences, but he is growing and learning from each of them. With many of the experiences he writes about he adds what he thinks he could have done better and what he will do next time in certain situations. He is growing immensely and it is wonderful to watch.
He wrote and amazing scripture for me in his email today:
Moroni 9:25
My son, be faithful in Christ; and may not the things which I have written grieve thee, to weigh thee down unto death; but may Christ lift thee up, and may his sufferings and death, and the showing his body unto our fathers, and his mercy and long-suffering, and the hope of his glory and of eternal life, rest in your mind forever.
"I love this scripture. With all the events of the world today that people have to worry and fear, and increase the stress in their mind. We have much to rejoice about. Recoice in Christ and the wonderful gifts that He has given us. Recoice is His goodness and mercy and love. Let this hope take the place of all the worries of the world in your mind. Put your faith in Him, and He will direct you through all the storms of life."
What incredible thought and guidance?! I love to get his letter each week and see his growth. He is great faith in Heavenly Father and for His plans. He is an obedient missionary and is and will continue to be blessed for his endeavors.
We are all so proud of him!!!
Elder Monk's letters lately have been great!! He sounds wonderful and so happy. He loves his area and the people he is teaching. He loves his companion and other missionary friends. He loves the work he is teaching and knows of its truthfulness. He just sounds so happy!!
His letter last week was very entertaining. He has had some interesting investigator/ contacting experiences, but he is growing and learning from each of them. With many of the experiences he writes about he adds what he thinks he could have done better and what he will do next time in certain situations. He is growing immensely and it is wonderful to watch.
He wrote and amazing scripture for me in his email today:
Moroni 9:25
My son, be faithful in Christ; and may not the things which I have written grieve thee, to weigh thee down unto death; but may Christ lift thee up, and may his sufferings and death, and the showing his body unto our fathers, and his mercy and long-suffering, and the hope of his glory and of eternal life, rest in your mind forever.
"I love this scripture. With all the events of the world today that people have to worry and fear, and increase the stress in their mind. We have much to rejoice about. Recoice in Christ and the wonderful gifts that He has given us. Recoice is His goodness and mercy and love. Let this hope take the place of all the worries of the world in your mind. Put your faith in Him, and He will direct you through all the storms of life."
What incredible thought and guidance?! I love to get his letter each week and see his growth. He is great faith in Heavenly Father and for His plans. He is an obedient missionary and is and will continue to be blessed for his endeavors.
We are all so proud of him!!!
Friday, October 10, 2008
Pictures from California
45 days in California!! Wow - time really is flying by...
So FINALLY Elder Monk sent home his camera card for all to see what he has been up to. He is doing great :) He loves his area and is enjoying helping with the progression in the Burbank area.
What a beautiful view?! Sunny California everyday!!
Elder Monk's trainer and companion Elder Uceda. He is a wonderful trainer and has taught Elder MOnk a lot thus far.
The apartment! 
Moving in to his new bedroom... home sweet home.
The LA Temple... they are able to attend the temple 3 times year. What a great opportunity?!
Elder Braden and Elder Monk hanging out. They were both in the same MTC district and are now both serving in Burbank. On p-days Elder Monk, Elder Uceda, Elder Braden, and Elder Jones (Elder Braden's comp) usually meet up somewhere in the area and play some basketball. He loves getting away with this great group of missionaries and playing an intense, non-competitive game of basketball :)
So FINALLY Elder Monk sent home his camera card for all to see what he has been up to. He is doing great :) He loves his area and is enjoying helping with the progression in the Burbank area.
What a beautiful view?! Sunny California everyday!!
Elder Monk's trainer and companion Elder Uceda. He is a wonderful trainer and has taught Elder MOnk a lot thus far.
The apartment!
The living... no lamp shade on the light, too funny!! Nice touch to the apartment.
Moving in to his new bedroom... home sweet home.
As you can see there were no pictures of the kitchen because they do not spend much time there. Elder Monk is very, very blessed to be in an area where they have meal appointments for dinner and most lunches everyday!! He is getting fed A LOT!! Yay for homemade meals!
The LA Temple... they are able to attend the temple 3 times year. What a great opportunity?!
Elder Braden and Elder Monk hanging out. They were both in the same MTC district and are now both serving in Burbank. On p-days Elder Monk, Elder Uceda, Elder Braden, and Elder Jones (Elder Braden's comp) usually meet up somewhere in the area and play some basketball. He loves getting away with this great group of missionaries and playing an intense, non-competitive game of basketball :)
MTC Friends
Elder Monk had wonderful experiences, made many new friends, and learned a lot during his time at the MTC. Below are pictures and some highlights!!
His district, Branch President and wife on their last Sunday at the MTC. He loved his Branch President and took much from his infinite wisdom. What a great group...?!
Oh no... Elder Sheets (his first companion) and him returned to a broken light! What are they going to do?!
Of course... they are missionaries and can fix anything!! :-) Job well done!!
P-day - posing outside the Provo Temple.
Missionaries being weird... yes he does have his coat inside out :)
Last day!! San Fernando here Elder Monk comes!!
His MTC district ready to preach the gospel to San Fernando.
His desk --> where he sat for hours and hours and hours each day!!
Looking studdly :)
Looking studdly :)
His district, Branch President and wife on their last Sunday at the MTC. He loved his Branch President and took much from his infinite wisdom. What a great group...?!
Oh no... Elder Sheets (his first companion) and him returned to a broken light! What are they going to do?!
Of course... they are missionaries and can fix anything!! :-) Job well done!!
P-day - posing outside the Provo Temple.
Dave made a transfer while in the MTC... he is posing with his first companion (Elder Sheets, in the brown Wyoming T) and former roommates.
Missionaries being weird... yes he does have his coat inside out :)
Last day!! San Fernando here Elder Monk comes!!
His MTC district ready to preach the gospel to San Fernando.
One last look at home for the last two months... good memories that will last forever!!
Monday, September 29, 2008
Pictures coming soon...
Elder Monk promises me that pictures are coming soon!! We all have not see pictures for quite a while... since his last camera card got lost in the mail :(... so I am sure we are all anxious to see what he has been up to!!
I will update the blog asap... so be on the look out!
I will update the blog asap... so be on the look out!
Less Actives
Time if flying by... Elder Monk's first transfers are NEXT week!! Where is the time going?!?
Dave and his comp had a slower week with their "prime" investigators but they had awesome success with less active members in their wards instead. They were able to meet with 6-7 less active families where they were able to teach lessons, perform service, and share their testimonies with the families. "On top of that, we had 4 less-active families come to church on Sunday for the first time in a long time. Hopefully this is a trend that continues." This seems to be a primary goal for Elder Monk and his companion and he is very excited about their continued success in this area!! He is doing amazing work in the San Fernando (Burbank) area.
He also had a little adventure with his companion the previous week where he was able to tour downtown Hollywood!! They were visiting the stake center to play basketball with other missionaries and on their way back his comp got a little lost... a lot lost actually. Dave said that things were not looking familiar but Elder Uceda (his comp) kept reassuring him that things were ok... well, they realized things were not ok when they passed the big H-O-L-L-Y-W-O-O-D sign on the side of the mountain and had to sit in downtown Hollywood rush hour for a hour and a half. He said in the end it was exciting and nice to see all that shops and things in Hollywood.
Each week Elder Monk emails me a scripture that stuck out to him throughout the week. I love the scriptures, but the one verse he gave me this week is awesome and I wanted to share it:
2 Nephi 9:41"O then, my beloved brethren, come unto the Lord, the Holy One. Remember that his paths are righteous. Behold, the way for man is narrow, but it lieth in a straight course before him, and the keeper of the gate is the Holy One of Israel; and he employeth no servant there; and there is none other way save it be by the gate; for he cannot be deceived, for the Lord God is his name."
Elder Monk's comments: "The path is narrow, the world pulls us away from the correct path. All the temptations lead us away from the path that Christ has set for us. We need to hold strong, 'hold tight to the iron rod' continually feasting on the words of Christ and we will make it through all of the temptations of the world. Christ himself will meet us at the end of our journey. He will wrap his arms around us after we successfully make it through the journey of life. Rely on him, he will help you always do the right."
It is amazing to see his spiritual growth week to week...
Dave and his comp had a slower week with their "prime" investigators but they had awesome success with less active members in their wards instead. They were able to meet with 6-7 less active families where they were able to teach lessons, perform service, and share their testimonies with the families. "On top of that, we had 4 less-active families come to church on Sunday for the first time in a long time. Hopefully this is a trend that continues." This seems to be a primary goal for Elder Monk and his companion and he is very excited about their continued success in this area!! He is doing amazing work in the San Fernando (Burbank) area.
He also had a little adventure with his companion the previous week where he was able to tour downtown Hollywood!! They were visiting the stake center to play basketball with other missionaries and on their way back his comp got a little lost... a lot lost actually. Dave said that things were not looking familiar but Elder Uceda (his comp) kept reassuring him that things were ok... well, they realized things were not ok when they passed the big H-O-L-L-Y-W-O-O-D sign on the side of the mountain and had to sit in downtown Hollywood rush hour for a hour and a half. He said in the end it was exciting and nice to see all that shops and things in Hollywood.
Each week Elder Monk emails me a scripture that stuck out to him throughout the week. I love the scriptures, but the one verse he gave me this week is awesome and I wanted to share it:
2 Nephi 9:41"O then, my beloved brethren, come unto the Lord, the Holy One. Remember that his paths are righteous. Behold, the way for man is narrow, but it lieth in a straight course before him, and the keeper of the gate is the Holy One of Israel; and he employeth no servant there; and there is none other way save it be by the gate; for he cannot be deceived, for the Lord God is his name."
Elder Monk's comments: "The path is narrow, the world pulls us away from the correct path. All the temptations lead us away from the path that Christ has set for us. We need to hold strong, 'hold tight to the iron rod' continually feasting on the words of Christ and we will make it through all of the temptations of the world. Christ himself will meet us at the end of our journey. He will wrap his arms around us after we successfully make it through the journey of life. Rely on him, he will help you always do the right."
It is amazing to see his spiritual growth week to week...
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Another week in California
Another week has flown by...
Our Elder Monk is doing fantastic in sunny, dry Cali. He didn't have a lot new to report on this past Monday. They were able to meet with each of their investigators the past week, which was very exciting for Dave. They have a few progressing.
Another exciting event that happened the past week was Dave and his companion had dinner with THE Napolean Dynamite.
"Burbank is where a lot of movie studio's are so many of the members are involved in productions of movies. One of the members we were having dinner with is good friends with John Heaton so he was there for our dinner." Weird...?!
Another great week in California down!!
Our Elder Monk is doing fantastic in sunny, dry Cali. He didn't have a lot new to report on this past Monday. They were able to meet with each of their investigators the past week, which was very exciting for Dave. They have a few progressing.
Another exciting event that happened the past week was Dave and his companion had dinner with THE Napolean Dynamite.
"Burbank is where a lot of movie studio's are so many of the members are involved in productions of movies. One of the members we were having dinner with is good friends with John Heaton so he was there for our dinner." Weird...?!
Another great week in California down!!
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Elder Monk's Testimony in Espanol
I received this audio from Elder Monk!! I re-recorded it onto my digital camera, so the quality is not great but it's decent. I hope you can hear and understand his sweet testimony!! His spanish is awesome :)
Status in Cali
I am very sorry I have been slacking in my Elder Monk blog updating duties...
To fill everyone in, Dave is now in California and has been assigned to the Burbank area, right on the border of Glendale. He covers two wards in his area and they both are english speaking. He was a little disappointed that he was not transferred to a spanish speaking area at first, but his companion, Elder Uceda, is originially from Peru and so Dave is helping him perfect his english and his comp is teaching him spanish. Great match!! Elder Monk has said nothing but wonderful things about his companion, "he is a great guy and we have fun together," and thinks he will be a great trainer.
It has been wonderful to hear of his investigators already:
- Rebecca and her son Burgess were Dave's first appointment! Rebecca is their "golden investigator" but she unexpectedly went out of town for the week... Dave has concerns but is hopeful she will continue to progress.
- A staunch Lutheran man that seems to want to "teach us the 'correct beliefs'... we talked with him for a very long time and I really think he felt something at the end." I am sure he felt the spirit of such a wonderful, greenie Elder :)
- Leona, a 15 girl studying in the United States from China. She is living with a chinese member and has never been introduced to Christian beliefs. Things are progressing well though.
He said the work has been slow in the Burbank area lately, but things are beginning to pick up. Their are many, many inactive members between the two wards, and so he hopes to have success and help to bring those members back to the gospel.
He is doing great work!!
Elder Monk has adjusted wonderful and without any bumps to his mission area. He is working hard, focused and determined. He loves both his companion and Mission President and knows he will be able to work them well and have success with them.
I have updated his new address to the right --> HE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM ALL!!
I will try and be better about updating his blog and he sent me pictures a few weeks ago, but they are a little lost... so hopefully I will have pics to add soon!!
To fill everyone in, Dave is now in California and has been assigned to the Burbank area, right on the border of Glendale. He covers two wards in his area and they both are english speaking. He was a little disappointed that he was not transferred to a spanish speaking area at first, but his companion, Elder Uceda, is originially from Peru and so Dave is helping him perfect his english and his comp is teaching him spanish. Great match!! Elder Monk has said nothing but wonderful things about his companion, "he is a great guy and we have fun together," and thinks he will be a great trainer.
It has been wonderful to hear of his investigators already:
- Rebecca and her son Burgess were Dave's first appointment! Rebecca is their "golden investigator" but she unexpectedly went out of town for the week... Dave has concerns but is hopeful she will continue to progress.
- A staunch Lutheran man that seems to want to "teach us the 'correct beliefs'... we talked with him for a very long time and I really think he felt something at the end." I am sure he felt the spirit of such a wonderful, greenie Elder :)
- Leona, a 15 girl studying in the United States from China. She is living with a chinese member and has never been introduced to Christian beliefs. Things are progressing well though.
He said the work has been slow in the Burbank area lately, but things are beginning to pick up. Their are many, many inactive members between the two wards, and so he hopes to have success and help to bring those members back to the gospel.
He is doing great work!!
Elder Monk has adjusted wonderful and without any bumps to his mission area. He is working hard, focused and determined. He loves both his companion and Mission President and knows he will be able to work them well and have success with them.
I have updated his new address to the right --> HE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM ALL!!
I will try and be better about updating his blog and he sent me pictures a few weeks ago, but they are a little lost... so hopefully I will have pics to add soon!!
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
He is in Cali!!
Today is the much anticipated day - Elder Monk has finally made it 2 months in the MTC and is now in California!! He sounds so excited and ready from his letters and can not wait to serve.
It has been a couple of weeks since I last made a post, so some updates:
Every Tuesday at the MTC Elder Monk was able to attend a devotional. He has written about a few of the talks and has really felt the spirit at the many of the meetings from great speakers. A couple of weeks ago, though, he was able to hear Elder Oaks, an apostle, speak!! Dave and his companion waited ouside the auditorium for an hour and half!! "My companion and I got seats right next to the door that he walked in and out of. We picked up on clues throughout the day that someone important was coming so we got amazing seats." He said that's one good thing about being in the MTC for 8 weeks, picking up on the clues!! Elder Oaks spoke on how to receive the Holy Ghost and Dave said it was most definitely an amazing experience. "Its amazing the Spirit that an Apostle brings into a room. The second Elder Oaks walked in, the whole feeling of the room changed. Just with him entering the room, the spirit entered." What a wonderful opportunity that he will always remember.
Elder Monk has and will continue to have wonderful experiences and great success. He is ready to 'focus and get to work' in the San Fernando area. I will update all on his new address!!
It has been a couple of weeks since I last made a post, so some updates:
Every Tuesday at the MTC Elder Monk was able to attend a devotional. He has written about a few of the talks and has really felt the spirit at the many of the meetings from great speakers. A couple of weeks ago, though, he was able to hear Elder Oaks, an apostle, speak!! Dave and his companion waited ouside the auditorium for an hour and half!! "My companion and I got seats right next to the door that he walked in and out of. We picked up on clues throughout the day that someone important was coming so we got amazing seats." He said that's one good thing about being in the MTC for 8 weeks, picking up on the clues!! Elder Oaks spoke on how to receive the Holy Ghost and Dave said it was most definitely an amazing experience. "Its amazing the Spirit that an Apostle brings into a room. The second Elder Oaks walked in, the whole feeling of the room changed. Just with him entering the room, the spirit entered." What a wonderful opportunity that he will always remember.
Elder Monk has and will continue to have wonderful experiences and great success. He is ready to 'focus and get to work' in the San Fernando area. I will update all on his new address!!
Monday, August 18, 2008
Lots of Reading
Elder Monk is learning so much in the MTC. "I have learned more in 7 weeks than I have my whole life." The classes and companion time are going great - but the time he enjoys the most is his personal study time. The mission has given him a great opportunity to read and learn more about Christ our Savior. While on his mission he has read the Book of Mormon a couple of times, Our Search for Happiness, Our Heritage, and more than half of Jesus the Christ (which he says "is by far the best book I have ever read.") He thinks he will be able to top 2000 pages of reading by the time he leaves the MTC. What a great opportunity to be able to study and get closer to the scriptures?! He is learning lots and loving his time at the MTC!!
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Because Salvation is Not a Cheap Experience
These past few weeks have been a bit of a roller-coaster for our Elder Monk. He continues to try and be a good example and motivator for a struggling companion and unexpectedly his lovely grandmother passed from this life to the next.
In one of his recent letters he wrote me, he began listing all the trials he has had while being at the MTC. He said that they all just seemed to hit him at once and he was having a difficult time dealing with all of his struggles. For the first time he said he began to feel lonely - but "then out of no where a quote came to my head from Elder Ballard. When answering a question about why life had to be so difficult, he answered, 'because salvation is not a cheap experience.' " Life is not always easy. Life has many difficult times. But we know that all of our trials are for our good and our experience. David also stated in his letter, "how can we expect to stand next to Jesus Christ in the next life, the one who endured more pain and struggles than any other man, and not be expected to have endured trials? We can't. We would shrink because of guilt..." Christ endured more than any of us could ever imagine. He did this because he loved us and in order for us to return to live with our Father in Heaven. How grateful we are for his sacrifice.
David also discussed another outlook on trials and struggles in his most recent letter. He gave me the scripture reference of Mark 6:45-51 and explained that though we have trials in our lives, we are not expected to endure them solely on our own. "Christ watches our struggles, and lets us struggle to an extent, but he will always rescue us int he end, if we have faith." How great is the gospel?!
David has definitely had his share of trials and struggles while serving at the MTC - but he has taken them as great experiences and opportunities to grow from. What a wonderful missionary he is?! We are all so proud of him.
He is VERY, VERY excited to begin serving in San Fernando - 2 1/2 weeks!! Time is flying...
In one of his recent letters he wrote me, he began listing all the trials he has had while being at the MTC. He said that they all just seemed to hit him at once and he was having a difficult time dealing with all of his struggles. For the first time he said he began to feel lonely - but "then out of no where a quote came to my head from Elder Ballard. When answering a question about why life had to be so difficult, he answered, 'because salvation is not a cheap experience.' " Life is not always easy. Life has many difficult times. But we know that all of our trials are for our good and our experience. David also stated in his letter, "how can we expect to stand next to Jesus Christ in the next life, the one who endured more pain and struggles than any other man, and not be expected to have endured trials? We can't. We would shrink because of guilt..." Christ endured more than any of us could ever imagine. He did this because he loved us and in order for us to return to live with our Father in Heaven. How grateful we are for his sacrifice.
David also discussed another outlook on trials and struggles in his most recent letter. He gave me the scripture reference of Mark 6:45-51 and explained that though we have trials in our lives, we are not expected to endure them solely on our own. "Christ watches our struggles, and lets us struggle to an extent, but he will always rescue us int he end, if we have faith." How great is the gospel?!
David has definitely had his share of trials and struggles while serving at the MTC - but he has taken them as great experiences and opportunities to grow from. What a wonderful missionary he is?! We are all so proud of him.
He is VERY, VERY excited to begin serving in San Fernando - 2 1/2 weeks!! Time is flying...
Saturday, July 26, 2008
PICTURES!!!
Another letter... YAY!! And he included pictures!!
Here are all the people going to San Fernando with him in front of the Temple on P-day.
Elder Monk and Elder Sheets (his former companion) in front of the Temple.
Dave's broken finger on the left. He broke his finger the first week he was in the MTC playing basketball and this is how is looks two weeks later. He is just beginning to be able to move it again.
The "missionary" send-off. This is how the missionaries send a district of missionaries off before they enter the field. The night before they leave, they dress up in their countries colors and have a little 'ceremony' in the hallway of the MTC. :) The things missionaries do...
The "missionary" send-off. This is how the missionaries send a district of missionaries off before they enter the field. The night before they leave, they dress up in their countries colors and have a little 'ceremony' in the hallway of the MTC. :) The things missionaries do...
Dave's district 'posing' outside the Temple.
The one second to the left on the top row is Dave's current companion.
No explanation needed :)
He is doing awesome in the MTC - learning lots but also enjoying his time!! In his letter he also included his daily schedule - I thought it would be interesting to share:
6:30 Wake-up
7-7:30 Breakfast
7:30-10 Class
10-11 Gym Time (this would be when he broke his finger)
11-12:30 Lunch
12:30-4:30 Individual Studies (Which includes 1 hour of personal study, 1 hour of companionship study and 1 hour of language study. The other hour is for free time - this is when Dave and his companion usually go to the Referral Center and take calls.)
4:30-5:30 Dinner
5:30-9 Class
9-9:30 Planning
9:30-10:30 Shower, etc.
10:30 Bedtime!
What a day!!!
Halfway There
It feels as if he left just a few days ago... but he is already halfway to the field!! Can't believe it?!
His weekly email was great as usual!! He is working hard, learning lots, and doing his best!! He had a great experience again at the Referral Center. A man called in and asked for a copy of the Book of Mormon. Dave was obviously excited about the situation and asked what prompted the man to call in. The man replied "that he reads The Bible often but that he feels like there are truths mission from The Bible. He also said that he lived by a couple of members and they just seemed to have something that nobody else had." Dave agreed completely with the man and talked to him for awhile about the gospel and ended up basically teaching him the first discussion. He said the man started to get emotional during their discussion and agreed to allow the missionaries in his area teach him. What a great experience?! Dave was very excited about his first 'real investigator' teaching experience. He will do great work in the San Fernando area!!
His weekly email was great as usual!! He is working hard, learning lots, and doing his best!! He had a great experience again at the Referral Center. A man called in and asked for a copy of the Book of Mormon. Dave was obviously excited about the situation and asked what prompted the man to call in. The man replied "that he reads The Bible often but that he feels like there are truths mission from The Bible. He also said that he lived by a couple of members and they just seemed to have something that nobody else had." Dave agreed completely with the man and talked to him for awhile about the gospel and ended up basically teaching him the first discussion. He said the man started to get emotional during their discussion and agreed to allow the missionaries in his area teach him. What a great experience?! Dave was very excited about his first 'real investigator' teaching experience. He will do great work in the San Fernando area!!
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Countdown to San Fernando!!
Time is flying by so fast!! When Dave writes me each week he adds a little countdown until he arrives in San Fernando - 38 Days from today!! YAY :) He is so excited to serve the people in his area and to begin working. He will do great work.
Dave's email/letters this week were awesome!! He sounded great:) He is feeling much better after his cold and adjusting well with his companion. I think his companion has been struggling to find his purpose on a mission, but it sounds like Dave has been a wonderful example and support for him. He is such a caring person for all.
He also was very excited because he had his first "missionary" experience this past week. He has been working at the Referral Center at the MTC lately and a few different people called to order videos while Dave was there. He was able to speak with a some non-members for a while and eventually was able to convince few of them to read the Book of Mormon and let the missionaries come to their houses to deliver the books and share a message with them. He was very excited about the experiences and said that he couldn't wait to be out in the field and to be the missionaires to actually go and see these people. What wonderful experiences he is having?!
One thing Dave shared with me in my letter this week was about attitudes. (The following are parts of his letter) He was reading the story in 1 Nephi about Nephi and his brothers, in particular when Nephi was commanded to build a ship to cross great waters. Each of the brothers were going through the same trials and tribulations in the wilderness, but "Nephi put his trust in the Lord and saw all the blessings while his brothers doubted..." We all have struggles we have to face in our lives but "it is amazing how a positive attitude changes the view of an experience." What an awesome lesson he taught me this week!! It is amazing how much he is learning and how much he has already grown. He will be a great teacher in San Fernando!!
Dave's email/letters this week were awesome!! He sounded great:) He is feeling much better after his cold and adjusting well with his companion. I think his companion has been struggling to find his purpose on a mission, but it sounds like Dave has been a wonderful example and support for him. He is such a caring person for all.
He also was very excited because he had his first "missionary" experience this past week. He has been working at the Referral Center at the MTC lately and a few different people called to order videos while Dave was there. He was able to speak with a some non-members for a while and eventually was able to convince few of them to read the Book of Mormon and let the missionaries come to their houses to deliver the books and share a message with them. He was very excited about the experiences and said that he couldn't wait to be out in the field and to be the missionaires to actually go and see these people. What wonderful experiences he is having?!
One thing Dave shared with me in my letter this week was about attitudes. (The following are parts of his letter) He was reading the story in 1 Nephi about Nephi and his brothers, in particular when Nephi was commanded to build a ship to cross great waters. Each of the brothers were going through the same trials and tribulations in the wilderness, but "Nephi put his trust in the Lord and saw all the blessings while his brothers doubted..." We all have struggles we have to face in our lives but "it is amazing how a positive attitude changes the view of an experience." What an awesome lesson he taught me this week!! It is amazing how much he is learning and how much he has already grown. He will be a great teacher in San Fernando!!
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Spanish
It is crazy to think that young adults are sent to MTC's around the world and expected to learn a foreign language in 60 days!! But they do learn the languages.
In this week's letter from Dave he said, "the spanish is still coming. I know the grammar now, I just need to epxand my vocabulary." - that was only 1 1/2 weeks in the MTC!! Amazing. He even wrote parts of his letter in spanish!! (I am a little rusty on my spanish, so I had to use the internet for translating!) He also was able to bear his testimony in spanish this past Sunday - he was very excited about that and thankful for the opportunity.
I am so proud of him and can't wait for the next letter!!
In this week's letter from Dave he said, "the spanish is still coming. I know the grammar now, I just need to epxand my vocabulary." - that was only 1 1/2 weeks in the MTC!! Amazing. He even wrote parts of his letter in spanish!! (I am a little rusty on my spanish, so I had to use the internet for translating!) He also was able to bear his testimony in spanish this past Sunday - he was very excited about that and thankful for the opportunity.
I am so proud of him and can't wait for the next letter!!
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Rough Week
P-day #2 - so it's been a hard week:
#1 Sick. The worst possible thing in the world is being away from home sick! So Dave caught one of his usual colds he randomly gets throughout the year. Only this time it also included a fever - no fun :(
#2 He has been getting along so well with his companion and other roommates, but this past week an elder in his district had to return home for medical reasons so some shuffling of elders took place and Dave was moved. Dave is very focused on his mission and succeeding and it seems as if the new room he has been placed in has more goofing off than he wants. All things are for our experience and good - he will adjust and will be a great example to all he is around though.
Other than the little bumps throughout the week, he is doing awesome!! He is serving the Lord and learning lots!! So proud!!
One more thing, missionaries LOVE letters... :)
#1 Sick. The worst possible thing in the world is being away from home sick! So Dave caught one of his usual colds he randomly gets throughout the year. Only this time it also included a fever - no fun :(
#2 He has been getting along so well with his companion and other roommates, but this past week an elder in his district had to return home for medical reasons so some shuffling of elders took place and Dave was moved. Dave is very focused on his mission and succeeding and it seems as if the new room he has been placed in has more goofing off than he wants. All things are for our experience and good - he will adjust and will be a great example to all he is around though.
Other than the little bumps throughout the week, he is doing awesome!! He is serving the Lord and learning lots!! So proud!!
One more thing, missionaries LOVE letters... :)
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
First Letter!!
So I received my first letter yesterday!!
He is doing so well!! The days are long, classes begin at 7 am and end at 9:30 pm, but he said "the MTC is an amazing place, the Spirit is amazing." He also said the language is beginning to come back to him from high school, even though he thought they covered 3 years of high school material in the first two days!! : )
He said that his companion "is great!" Elder Sheets "is quieter like (him) but we get along well." He is from Evanson, WY and they are in charge of teaching priesthood on Sunday. How exciting?!
He seemed very enthusiatic about all of the work he has been doing and will be doing. He is scheduled to leave the MTC on August 27th to begin teaching the people of San Fernando, California!! YAY for Dave...
He is doing so well!! The days are long, classes begin at 7 am and end at 9:30 pm, but he said "the MTC is an amazing place, the Spirit is amazing." He also said the language is beginning to come back to him from high school, even though he thought they covered 3 years of high school material in the first two days!! : )
He said that his companion "is great!" Elder Sheets "is quieter like (him) but we get along well." He is from Evanson, WY and they are in charge of teaching priesthood on Sunday. How exciting?!
He seemed very enthusiatic about all of the work he has been doing and will be doing. He is scheduled to leave the MTC on August 27th to begin teaching the people of San Fernando, California!! YAY for Dave...
Friday, June 27, 2008
He's "officially" a missionary!!
HE'S IN THE MTC!! Dave has finally made it to the MTC. He left for Salt Lake City on Monday where his brother met him. He spent the next day with Steve, other family members and old friends. Then on Wednesday he arrived at the MTC ready to serve with all his heart, might, mind, and strength.
Dave is so excited to serve the people of San Fernando, California. He is prepared and ready to do the Lord's work. I know all who love and care for him could not be more proud of him and we all know he will do great work!
I am waiting patiently for my first letter, will update soon!!
Look at his NAME TAG!! Elder Monk : )
Dave's Mission Call
I thought this would be a great introduction to Dave's mission blog page.
April 9, 2008 - The day that changed his life. Dave's parents came to Miami, all his siblings on speaker phone, and Casey standing by all anticipating where he will be sent - SAN FERNANDO, CALI!!
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
