HELLO My Beautiful Family,
Wow time is a flying! Super fast week, we saw many miracles! First Sister Dong is finally baptized! We were fighting to get her in the water because the Zone Leaders and the Assistants didn’t agree with us getting her in because of her husband opposing pretty bad. But the President was right behind us and agreed that she could be baptized because the husband finally said whatever I don’t care if you get baptized!! It was positive enough to get her in! I am so happy she is like a Taiwanese mom to us! I had the privilege to baptize her in probably one of the coldest water I have done. We were running late so didn’t have enough time to turn on the water heater, oh well in the end she said her baptism was cool!!! She didn’t mind the ice cold water one bit. After the baptism it was my idea to take her to Mc Donald’s so I used my dessert card and gave her a chocolate sunday. She brought her daughter to the baptism, kinda shy but is starting to open up to us. The best part is of course we all know a baptism isn’t complete unless you get the baptism of fire. We went to church and noticed that she wasn’t there yet but as the meeting started sister Dong and her daughter ran through the door just in time to take the sacrament. Later on we asked why she was late. She said I accidently slept in but thank the lord that my daughter woke me up!!! YA after all the daughter is not that bad we want to start teaching her this week and get her in by the end of the month. She has already been to church many times!! My first mom baptism was a very special one. She was in tears singing nearer my god to thee at the end of her baptism! WOW the end of my mission keeps getting better and better!
So on to the next best thing, yesterday at church my friends from Tainan 3rd ward came to find me. Remember the kid that we were teaching but could never get baptized because his parents oppose? Ya he came he is 15 still not baptized reminds me a lot about the boys..loves basketball and listening to rap music his dream is to go to America one day but he has a burning testimony! Anyways during fast and testimony meeting I invited him to bear his testimony he was scared because he has never done that yet. I said who cares if you’re not a member tell everyone about your story. He did it and gave a beautiful testimony! He showed everyone his book of Mormon that he disguised as Harry Potter so his mom can stop throwing away his book of Mormons!! That’s his third one not to mention he is already in 2 Nephi 17! Maybe in 3 years when he turns 18 he can be baptized. It’s so sad how controlling parents can be especially when they take away the freedom to choose. I’ve been thinking lately, we need to love the people we teach! It’s something President Bishop is enforcing a lot now. Too many people get baptized and go less active because they don’t’ feel the love.
Alright that’s about it. I’ll answer your questions in a bit! YAY for the giants ya I heard!!! Can’t wait to watch the Lakers with you guys we will definitely repeat! I’m writing nothing but letters today were going to the church to do that after we e-mail so ya it will probably be the last one you get hope you like it!
Love,
Elder Christensen
October 18, 2010 - Miracles
Hello My Beautiful Family,
Wow, what a day. Today we went hiking in the mountains with my District and some members jia ming and wei ru. It was really fun but now I am really tired. At the top it was super pretty. A lot of fog though kind of hard to see in the pic. Sorry, I hope you are sound asleep and not up waiting for me. If you are tell me how much you love me! lol. I have a good letter for the blog!
Let me paint a miracle.
Last Friday during our weekly planning session we were tidying up a few things in the office. We went through our area book which looked a little dismal, because we're in a new area. For some reason we started organizing all the Liahona's into piles, and lo and behold we find a stack of old records that had been there for who knows how long. So we spent the rest of the day calling through them all, and we ended up adding about 7 week C's, which looks amazing on the numbers. I'm sure there are many more miracles to come from that little find but I want to focus on one specifically. Her name is dong. We rode out to meet with her on Saturday morning. During the meeting we found out her whole history, and taught her faith out of Ether 12. Basically, around 4 years ago she was progressing in the gospel really well, she even passed a baptismal interview! But before her baptism her parents died, and she lost a lot of faith, and has been depressed ever since. I asked her where her faith was now and she said it was less and less. Anyway, the discussion went alright, but she didn't commit to church or anything so I wasn't too excited about it. But then the next day, Sunday, she came to church. She told us that she felt like riding her bike so she rode about 20 minutes or so just to come to church. Keep in mind that she is a 50 year old lady, with severe depression, who rarely sleeps, riding twenty minutes in the hot sun to come to church, miracle. She agreed with us the day before that if she could feel the spirit again like how she had before, that she would get baptized. We said the way to do that is to come to church. But it gets deeper. 4 years ago she became really good friends with a member at church. This member, sun jie mei, went less active, and hadn't been to church in 4 years. I had never met her until yesterday. But by some coincidence dong's best friend sun, who hadn't been to church in YEARS, came back to church on the same day she did just by a feeling that she NEEDED to come to church. they were so excited to see each other, almost not believing that it happened the way that it did, and they set up a dinner appointment with us for that night at 7 at sun's house. So the time comes and we ride over to her house with the Branch President. We conversed while eating dinner, and then put in the finding faith in Christ video. Everyone was still talking for a minute or two but all of a sudden (actually as Jesus calmed the seas) everyone was completely focused on the movie, including the 19 year old son who's a little huai. It was amazing with complete silence for 30 minutes. After wards the spirit was so strong in the room, the movie ended and we kept it silent for about a minute not saying anything. Then my companion and I broke out testifying. We testified of Christ, using the scriptures and through the power of the spirit, we had the whole room in tears. Sun Jie mei broke out, and through her tears said that she had been a bad mother, and hadn't raised her kids in the church as she should have, and that she'd been a bad wife. She wanted to repent, she had the "mighty change of heart". I’ve never seen a person in so much torment. We testified that she could change. She agree to come to church, read and pray as a family, before we even finished EXTENDING the commitment. After wards I couldn't believe what had happened. dong jie mei said that she felt it, and wanted to get baptized. Why are we so blessed with such good investigators. Why have I seen so many miracles here? I can't help but lose a tear or two just in writing this. I can't explain this in words.
As an update our Filipinos are getting their priesthood interviews tonight. Jimmy, JR, and Nido brought a bunch of their friends to church yesterday. 9 in total. Things are coming a long great. Jimmy gave an outstanding talk on Sunday about his baptism, and about his conversion, and it made me cry. He spoke with the power of the spirit and did a great job. I translated for him and several members came up to me afterwards telling me about how moved they were by his talk. Jimmy is either at work, or reading his scriptures. He sometimes calls me and asks me where a verse is in the bible or book of Mormon. He’s amazing. I thought he couldn't be beat. Until Aladdin opens his mouth to talk in a lesson yesterday. Jimmy asked if the commandments could be found in the book of Mormon, and as I was about to say Mosiah 13, Aladdin beat me to the punch. I was shocked. Aladdin has come to church off and on (twice now for sacrament), but he always has an earphone in, and never says much. But now he is unfolding the scriptures to his friends, and he's not even BAPTIZED! Amazing. Jimmy wants to share the gospel these days with everyone. He's called his parents and told them to go to church, and he always helps us teach his friends. I'm getting him a tagalog preach my gospel to study.
Also, our investigator Chen jing yan, didn't come to church. But he brought all the members a good vegetarian lunch which was delicious!
Love, Elder Christensen
Wow, what a day. Today we went hiking in the mountains with my District and some members jia ming and wei ru. It was really fun but now I am really tired. At the top it was super pretty. A lot of fog though kind of hard to see in the pic. Sorry, I hope you are sound asleep and not up waiting for me. If you are tell me how much you love me! lol. I have a good letter for the blog!
Let me paint a miracle.
Last Friday during our weekly planning session we were tidying up a few things in the office. We went through our area book which looked a little dismal, because we're in a new area. For some reason we started organizing all the Liahona's into piles, and lo and behold we find a stack of old records that had been there for who knows how long. So we spent the rest of the day calling through them all, and we ended up adding about 7 week C's, which looks amazing on the numbers. I'm sure there are many more miracles to come from that little find but I want to focus on one specifically. Her name is dong. We rode out to meet with her on Saturday morning. During the meeting we found out her whole history, and taught her faith out of Ether 12. Basically, around 4 years ago she was progressing in the gospel really well, she even passed a baptismal interview! But before her baptism her parents died, and she lost a lot of faith, and has been depressed ever since. I asked her where her faith was now and she said it was less and less. Anyway, the discussion went alright, but she didn't commit to church or anything so I wasn't too excited about it. But then the next day, Sunday, she came to church. She told us that she felt like riding her bike so she rode about 20 minutes or so just to come to church. Keep in mind that she is a 50 year old lady, with severe depression, who rarely sleeps, riding twenty minutes in the hot sun to come to church, miracle. She agreed with us the day before that if she could feel the spirit again like how she had before, that she would get baptized. We said the way to do that is to come to church. But it gets deeper. 4 years ago she became really good friends with a member at church. This member, sun jie mei, went less active, and hadn't been to church in 4 years. I had never met her until yesterday. But by some coincidence dong's best friend sun, who hadn't been to church in YEARS, came back to church on the same day she did just by a feeling that she NEEDED to come to church. they were so excited to see each other, almost not believing that it happened the way that it did, and they set up a dinner appointment with us for that night at 7 at sun's house. So the time comes and we ride over to her house with the Branch President. We conversed while eating dinner, and then put in the finding faith in Christ video. Everyone was still talking for a minute or two but all of a sudden (actually as Jesus calmed the seas) everyone was completely focused on the movie, including the 19 year old son who's a little huai. It was amazing with complete silence for 30 minutes. After wards the spirit was so strong in the room, the movie ended and we kept it silent for about a minute not saying anything. Then my companion and I broke out testifying. We testified of Christ, using the scriptures and through the power of the spirit, we had the whole room in tears. Sun Jie mei broke out, and through her tears said that she had been a bad mother, and hadn't raised her kids in the church as she should have, and that she'd been a bad wife. She wanted to repent, she had the "mighty change of heart". I’ve never seen a person in so much torment. We testified that she could change. She agree to come to church, read and pray as a family, before we even finished EXTENDING the commitment. After wards I couldn't believe what had happened. dong jie mei said that she felt it, and wanted to get baptized. Why are we so blessed with such good investigators. Why have I seen so many miracles here? I can't help but lose a tear or two just in writing this. I can't explain this in words.
As an update our Filipinos are getting their priesthood interviews tonight. Jimmy, JR, and Nido brought a bunch of their friends to church yesterday. 9 in total. Things are coming a long great. Jimmy gave an outstanding talk on Sunday about his baptism, and about his conversion, and it made me cry. He spoke with the power of the spirit and did a great job. I translated for him and several members came up to me afterwards telling me about how moved they were by his talk. Jimmy is either at work, or reading his scriptures. He sometimes calls me and asks me where a verse is in the bible or book of Mormon. He’s amazing. I thought he couldn't be beat. Until Aladdin opens his mouth to talk in a lesson yesterday. Jimmy asked if the commandments could be found in the book of Mormon, and as I was about to say Mosiah 13, Aladdin beat me to the punch. I was shocked. Aladdin has come to church off and on (twice now for sacrament), but he always has an earphone in, and never says much. But now he is unfolding the scriptures to his friends, and he's not even BAPTIZED! Amazing. Jimmy wants to share the gospel these days with everyone. He's called his parents and told them to go to church, and he always helps us teach his friends. I'm getting him a tagalog preach my gospel to study.
Also, our investigator Chen jing yan, didn't come to church. But he brought all the members a good vegetarian lunch which was delicious!
Love, Elder Christensen
October 18, 2010 - President Bishop's Letter
Dear Elders and Sisters,
I have not written for 2 weeks. I will not have a letter every week, but from time to time I will continue to send a general email to all missionaries. During the past 2 weeks, I have spent time with the Stake Presidents, new missionaries, departing missionaries, zone leaders, and regular companionships. Again I am impressed with how hard you work and how good you are.
I have a couple of requests for you as well as some clarifications:
At my request, Elder Porter made a visit to all missionary apartments. In general the apartments were in good condition. While most were clean, some apartments did have clutter and left over stuff from missionaries who had long since been transferred. There were some leaky plumbing fixtures, lights that needed replacement etc. Please follow up on any assignments that were made by Elder Porter.
The stake presidents have requested that we keep missionary stuff in the closet designated for missionaries. If the chapel does not have such a closet, you might check with the bishop or branch president to see if you can get storage designated for missionaries. In any case, please do not leave your things strewn around the church.
We still have some questions about confirmations. Both Preach My Gospel and the General Handbook of Instructions state that confirmations should be done at Sacrament meeting. When there is a Stake or General Conference this may delay the confirmation. If the Bishop wishes to do it at another time, such as at the baptismal service, it is his prerogative to do so. We should not encourage the confirmation to be done other than in sacrament meeting. Also, a member of the bishopric participates in the confirmation(stands in the circle), and may, but does not need to, perform the actual ordinance. All confirmations are under the direction of the Bishop. I have neither the right, the inclination, nor the authority to interfere with how the Bishop wishes to conduct confirmations.
There have been questions and some discussions about investigators partaking of the sacrament. General Handbook of Instructions says the following:
“Although the sacrament is for Church members, the bishopric should not announce that it will be passed to members only, and nothing should be done to prevent nonmembers from partaking of it.”
Because of this clear statement in the Handbook, I need to retract what I said a few weeks ago in Gaoxiong. We should teach the significance of the sacrament and why partaking of the sacrament is special to us as members. We should not in any way discourage investigators from partaking of it.
Thank you for your hard work. Elders, thank you or polishing your shoes. Everywhere I go I see shined shoes and smiling faces. You look as good as the message you bring. I look forward to seeing all of you and having interviews with each of you in the coming weeks. I remind you that we are now setting goals and making plans on a month to month basis rather than a 6 week transfer cycle.
Faithfully, your brother,
President Clark Bishop
I have not written for 2 weeks. I will not have a letter every week, but from time to time I will continue to send a general email to all missionaries. During the past 2 weeks, I have spent time with the Stake Presidents, new missionaries, departing missionaries, zone leaders, and regular companionships. Again I am impressed with how hard you work and how good you are.
I have a couple of requests for you as well as some clarifications:
At my request, Elder Porter made a visit to all missionary apartments. In general the apartments were in good condition. While most were clean, some apartments did have clutter and left over stuff from missionaries who had long since been transferred. There were some leaky plumbing fixtures, lights that needed replacement etc. Please follow up on any assignments that were made by Elder Porter.
The stake presidents have requested that we keep missionary stuff in the closet designated for missionaries. If the chapel does not have such a closet, you might check with the bishop or branch president to see if you can get storage designated for missionaries. In any case, please do not leave your things strewn around the church.
We still have some questions about confirmations. Both Preach My Gospel and the General Handbook of Instructions state that confirmations should be done at Sacrament meeting. When there is a Stake or General Conference this may delay the confirmation. If the Bishop wishes to do it at another time, such as at the baptismal service, it is his prerogative to do so. We should not encourage the confirmation to be done other than in sacrament meeting. Also, a member of the bishopric participates in the confirmation(stands in the circle), and may, but does not need to, perform the actual ordinance. All confirmations are under the direction of the Bishop. I have neither the right, the inclination, nor the authority to interfere with how the Bishop wishes to conduct confirmations.
There have been questions and some discussions about investigators partaking of the sacrament. General Handbook of Instructions says the following:
“Although the sacrament is for Church members, the bishopric should not announce that it will be passed to members only, and nothing should be done to prevent nonmembers from partaking of it.”
Because of this clear statement in the Handbook, I need to retract what I said a few weeks ago in Gaoxiong. We should teach the significance of the sacrament and why partaking of the sacrament is special to us as members. We should not in any way discourage investigators from partaking of it.
Thank you for your hard work. Elders, thank you or polishing your shoes. Everywhere I go I see shined shoes and smiling faces. You look as good as the message you bring. I look forward to seeing all of you and having interviews with each of you in the coming weeks. I remind you that we are now setting goals and making plans on a month to month basis rather than a 6 week transfer cycle.
Faithfully, your brother,
President Clark Bishop
October 3, 2010 - President Bishop's Letter
Dear Elders and Sisters,
We enjoyed visiting with many of you for the Fundamentals from Preach My Gospel: Teaching More Effectively. These eight lessons are not secret. They are not really new, since all of the content comes directly from the scriptures and Preach My Gospel. Each of you should have a copy. These lessons should help all of you improve upon the great teaching skills you already have. Please study these lessons and use the principles as you teach. Practice them with your companions and others in your zone and district. Also, continue to study the rest of Preach My Gospel, especially chapter 3 as you prepare to teach investigators.
This weekend we will be able to attend conference. Please encourage all members and investigators to enjoy a conference weekend, attending all 4 or 5 of the two hour sessions. Conference is a spiritual outpouring that is the culmination of months of prayer, practice, and searching by those chosen by God to lead us today. Go to conference with questions. Take notes. Encourage those you teach to do the same. Conference is a great time of revelation and we can participate and receive our own revelation by being fully engaged.
Starting last month, we asked all missionaries to set goals and make plans on a month to month rather than based upon move call. We encourage you to plan for October and think of goals and plans in terms of this month. You will also begin receiving mission calendars for the month, instead of for the move call. This is a change that the Missionary Department has asked all missions to do.
There have been questions and some discussions about investigators partaking of the sacrament. General Handbook of Instructions says the following:
“Although the sacrament is for Church members, the bishopric should not announce that it will be passed to members only, and nothing should be done to prevent nonmembers from partaking of it.”
Because of this quote, I need to retract what I said last week in Gaoxiong. We should teach the significance of the sacrament and why partaking of the sacrament is special to us as members. We should not in any way discourage investigators from partaking of it.
A few weeks ago in my letter, I asked the Elders to shine their shoes each week. As I visit the mission, I still see many shoes which are scruffy. Elders, please shine your shoes today, and every Saturday thereafter. Put a note in your planner to remind you. This will present a professional image worthy of the Savior whom we represent. Also, our reverence and punctuality at sacrament meeting can improve. Please refer to pages 17-18 of the Missionary Handbook and pages 3-4 of the Taichung Mission rules regarding church attendance. Please read those sections again today and be a great example of how to attend church.
I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve with you. As I make suggestions, I hope you know it is out of love and my desire for you to be great missionaries. I want you to live up to the great potential you have. I love you and pray for you always.
President Bishop
We enjoyed visiting with many of you for the Fundamentals from Preach My Gospel: Teaching More Effectively. These eight lessons are not secret. They are not really new, since all of the content comes directly from the scriptures and Preach My Gospel. Each of you should have a copy. These lessons should help all of you improve upon the great teaching skills you already have. Please study these lessons and use the principles as you teach. Practice them with your companions and others in your zone and district. Also, continue to study the rest of Preach My Gospel, especially chapter 3 as you prepare to teach investigators.
This weekend we will be able to attend conference. Please encourage all members and investigators to enjoy a conference weekend, attending all 4 or 5 of the two hour sessions. Conference is a spiritual outpouring that is the culmination of months of prayer, practice, and searching by those chosen by God to lead us today. Go to conference with questions. Take notes. Encourage those you teach to do the same. Conference is a great time of revelation and we can participate and receive our own revelation by being fully engaged.
Starting last month, we asked all missionaries to set goals and make plans on a month to month rather than based upon move call. We encourage you to plan for October and think of goals and plans in terms of this month. You will also begin receiving mission calendars for the month, instead of for the move call. This is a change that the Missionary Department has asked all missions to do.
There have been questions and some discussions about investigators partaking of the sacrament. General Handbook of Instructions says the following:
“Although the sacrament is for Church members, the bishopric should not announce that it will be passed to members only, and nothing should be done to prevent nonmembers from partaking of it.”
Because of this quote, I need to retract what I said last week in Gaoxiong. We should teach the significance of the sacrament and why partaking of the sacrament is special to us as members. We should not in any way discourage investigators from partaking of it.
A few weeks ago in my letter, I asked the Elders to shine their shoes each week. As I visit the mission, I still see many shoes which are scruffy. Elders, please shine your shoes today, and every Saturday thereafter. Put a note in your planner to remind you. This will present a professional image worthy of the Savior whom we represent. Also, our reverence and punctuality at sacrament meeting can improve. Please refer to pages 17-18 of the Missionary Handbook and pages 3-4 of the Taichung Mission rules regarding church attendance. Please read those sections again today and be a great example of how to attend church.
I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve with you. As I make suggestions, I hope you know it is out of love and my desire for you to be great missionaries. I want you to live up to the great potential you have. I love you and pray for you always.
President Bishop
September 19, 2010 - President Bishop's Letter
Dear Elders and Sisters,
We are looking forward to our meetings with you this week. We are excited to have Elder and Sister Pratt of the Asia Area Presidency with us on the Mission Tour. They have lived faithful lives entirely dedicated to church service. I am sure they can teach us many things.
We recently reviewed the goals and plans of the Asia Area Presidency. I was very interested to hear what these inspired general authorities felt was most important and where their goals were. In brief, they want to establish the church. Their areas of emphasis are as follows:
· Increase convert baptisms even though the number of missionaries in Asia are declining.
· Increase attendance at sacrament meeting.
· Rescue, reactivate less active members.
· Increase temple attendance.
· Increase active Melchizedek Priesthood holders.
This is a summary of those things I outlined in the long letter I sent to each of you last week, though I did not mention the part about priesthood holders. I know that the Area Presidency members are inspired from the Lord. When I saw how closely aligned my feelings and written expectations are with their goals, I felt that we are all receiving inspiration from the Lord to guide this mission.
The Area Presidency also asked that we encourage all members and investigators to enjoy a conference weekend. Some think conference is a time to watch a session or two but do not watch all 4 or 5 sessions. We hope you will stress to all members and investigators that this is when we hear the council of the living prophet. It does us no good to have living prophets and apostles if we ignore them. There is great power in meeting with the saints. We should read and study the messages when they are published. But watching them with other members is an especially powerful experience. All priesthood holders should be able to feel a part of the great body of priesthood. We should join together with the millions of members around the world to raise our arms and our hearts to sustain our leaders.
Please encourage all to plan now to spend the second weekend in October, Saturday and Sunday, watching conference. Especially encourage all brethren ages 12 and older to attend general priesthood on Saturday evening. Testimonies will be strengthened, commitment to the kingdom will be increased, revelation will be received, lives will be blessed, and the church will be established in greater degree. Discuss in your weekly planning sessions how you are going to get people to conference.
It is great to be serving with you. I we will have spiritual feasts this week.
Faithfully, your brother
President Clark Bishop
We are looking forward to our meetings with you this week. We are excited to have Elder and Sister Pratt of the Asia Area Presidency with us on the Mission Tour. They have lived faithful lives entirely dedicated to church service. I am sure they can teach us many things.
We recently reviewed the goals and plans of the Asia Area Presidency. I was very interested to hear what these inspired general authorities felt was most important and where their goals were. In brief, they want to establish the church. Their areas of emphasis are as follows:
· Increase convert baptisms even though the number of missionaries in Asia are declining.
· Increase attendance at sacrament meeting.
· Rescue, reactivate less active members.
· Increase temple attendance.
· Increase active Melchizedek Priesthood holders.
This is a summary of those things I outlined in the long letter I sent to each of you last week, though I did not mention the part about priesthood holders. I know that the Area Presidency members are inspired from the Lord. When I saw how closely aligned my feelings and written expectations are with their goals, I felt that we are all receiving inspiration from the Lord to guide this mission.
The Area Presidency also asked that we encourage all members and investigators to enjoy a conference weekend. Some think conference is a time to watch a session or two but do not watch all 4 or 5 sessions. We hope you will stress to all members and investigators that this is when we hear the council of the living prophet. It does us no good to have living prophets and apostles if we ignore them. There is great power in meeting with the saints. We should read and study the messages when they are published. But watching them with other members is an especially powerful experience. All priesthood holders should be able to feel a part of the great body of priesthood. We should join together with the millions of members around the world to raise our arms and our hearts to sustain our leaders.
Please encourage all to plan now to spend the second weekend in October, Saturday and Sunday, watching conference. Especially encourage all brethren ages 12 and older to attend general priesthood on Saturday evening. Testimonies will be strengthened, commitment to the kingdom will be increased, revelation will be received, lives will be blessed, and the church will be established in greater degree. Discuss in your weekly planning sessions how you are going to get people to conference.
It is great to be serving with you. I we will have spiritual feasts this week.
Faithfully, your brother
President Clark Bishop
September 5, 2010 - President Bishop's Letter
Dear Elders and Sisters,
Thank you for a wonderful month of August! Through the blessings of the Lord and your diligent efforts 146 souls became Latter-Day Saints! Many lives will be blessed. We also had a record one week of 600 lessons with members present. This happens when you set goals and make plans to have members with you. It only happens when you make it happen. Thank you for setting goals and making plans for each of the key indicators. Having lessons with members present helps the converts remain active.
With her permission, I will share a portion of a letter from one of our newer missionaries:
I realized a couple of interesting things this week. Since I've come on my mission I don't think I've ever felt the spirit as strong as I did at that youth activity. Which really made me wonder. Over time I have concluded that missionary work is great because it unites our individual purpose with Heavenly Father's purpose. Every day that we put on our tag we are committing to help heavenly father fulfill his purpose. We are engaged in a sacred and Godly work because we are the tools Heavenly Father is using to bring to pass the eternal life of man. Sharing that with the youth was really special to me and it made me think what can I do to make sure everyone I talk to can feel that spirit and better understand our purpose. I have concluded that instead of investigators everyone we talk to is a future missionary. The missionary who found and baptized my mom years ago had no idea that 50 years later I would be a missionary, she had no idea that in my first move call I would help baptize six people. But I did, that is the vision I want to have for every single person I talk to.
The effect of the work you do in Taiwan will bless the church for generations. Even one baptism is a foundation for the future. Thank you for your hard work.
Now I need your help. I met with the mission Presidency this week. President Gao and President Yang are wonderful, faithful members who are very unselfish with their time to help serve. One of their main responsibilities is to perform second interviews when investigators have previously been involved with abortion. Presidents Gao and Yang have requested missionaries with investigators receiving second interviews do the following:
· Treat this interview as a great opportunity to meet a senior Mission Leader. This is not a failure, but a great privilege. Be positive and upbeat with the investigator. This is part of the wonderful process of repenting and preparing for baptism. Avoid whispered conversations, head shaking or actions which could make the investigator feel embarrassed or ashamed.
· Please have the investigator interviewed first by the district or zone leader to ensure that the investigator is fully prepared in every other way.
· Arrive early so you can open the church, explain the investigator’s situation to the mission presidency member, and make the introduction when the investigator arrives.
· Ask those being interviewed to dress in their Sunday best. For sisters, teach the principle of modest dress. One sister missionary who was thinking ahead brought a one of her own skirts for the investigator to cover her bare legs.
We have many people who need second interviews. This is because you wonderful missionaries are finding people who want the cleansing power of the atonement in their lives. Through baptism and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, they become saints, fellow citizens of the household of God. Thank you for working with charity, kindness and diligence as you baptize to build the Kingdom of God here in Taiwan.
Faithfully your brother,
President Clark Bishop
Thank you for a wonderful month of August! Through the blessings of the Lord and your diligent efforts 146 souls became Latter-Day Saints! Many lives will be blessed. We also had a record one week of 600 lessons with members present. This happens when you set goals and make plans to have members with you. It only happens when you make it happen. Thank you for setting goals and making plans for each of the key indicators. Having lessons with members present helps the converts remain active.
With her permission, I will share a portion of a letter from one of our newer missionaries:
I realized a couple of interesting things this week. Since I've come on my mission I don't think I've ever felt the spirit as strong as I did at that youth activity. Which really made me wonder. Over time I have concluded that missionary work is great because it unites our individual purpose with Heavenly Father's purpose. Every day that we put on our tag we are committing to help heavenly father fulfill his purpose. We are engaged in a sacred and Godly work because we are the tools Heavenly Father is using to bring to pass the eternal life of man. Sharing that with the youth was really special to me and it made me think what can I do to make sure everyone I talk to can feel that spirit and better understand our purpose. I have concluded that instead of investigators everyone we talk to is a future missionary. The missionary who found and baptized my mom years ago had no idea that 50 years later I would be a missionary, she had no idea that in my first move call I would help baptize six people. But I did, that is the vision I want to have for every single person I talk to.
The effect of the work you do in Taiwan will bless the church for generations. Even one baptism is a foundation for the future. Thank you for your hard work.
Now I need your help. I met with the mission Presidency this week. President Gao and President Yang are wonderful, faithful members who are very unselfish with their time to help serve. One of their main responsibilities is to perform second interviews when investigators have previously been involved with abortion. Presidents Gao and Yang have requested missionaries with investigators receiving second interviews do the following:
· Treat this interview as a great opportunity to meet a senior Mission Leader. This is not a failure, but a great privilege. Be positive and upbeat with the investigator. This is part of the wonderful process of repenting and preparing for baptism. Avoid whispered conversations, head shaking or actions which could make the investigator feel embarrassed or ashamed.
· Please have the investigator interviewed first by the district or zone leader to ensure that the investigator is fully prepared in every other way.
· Arrive early so you can open the church, explain the investigator’s situation to the mission presidency member, and make the introduction when the investigator arrives.
· Ask those being interviewed to dress in their Sunday best. For sisters, teach the principle of modest dress. One sister missionary who was thinking ahead brought a one of her own skirts for the investigator to cover her bare legs.
We have many people who need second interviews. This is because you wonderful missionaries are finding people who want the cleansing power of the atonement in their lives. Through baptism and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, they become saints, fellow citizens of the household of God. Thank you for working with charity, kindness and diligence as you baptize to build the Kingdom of God here in Taiwan.
Faithfully your brother,
President Clark Bishop
August 29, 2010 - President Bishop's Letter
Dear Elders and Sisters,
This week was a time of overwhelming emotion for me. Sister Bishop and I attended the Youth Conference and then the Zhong Xin Stake conference. The youth conference was wonderful. There were more than 400 youth in attendance. The event was planned and lead entirely by Chinese Leaders. A group of missionaries helped with a missionary night. The missionaries helped each of the youth record their testimony in a copy of the Book of Mormon. The youth then promised to share the Book of Mormon with a non-member friend. These youth were excited to share the gospel with others. Elder Bednar said the best way to prepare for a mission is to become a missionary. Our missionaries helped each of the youth become a missionary. I am grateful to all who participated. Each missionary showed initiative as they worked with their group to help them feel the spirit and become missionaries. This is the future of Taiwan. In fact, it may well be the future of the church in all of Asia.
When I arrived in Taiwan there was one branch in the area which is now Zhong Xin Stake. That was a Branch in Zhang Hua. After I arrived, missionaries were sent to Nan Tou and Dou Liu. The first Sacrament meeting in Dou Liu had 4 elders and 2 member sisters who had joined the Church in Tai Zhong but who lived in Dou Liu. Today the beautiful Stake Center in Yuan Lin was full and overflowing. There were 3 choirs, a primary, a youth, and an adult choir. The stake President, President Chen, went around and greeted everyone by name. During the Sunday Morning session many new brethren were sustained to receive the Melchizedek Priesthood. I lost count but I think there were 12! After the Sunday Morning session, a new member meeting was held. This meeting also filled the chapel. I am so moved by the growth of the church in this area. I am so grateful to each of you for helping to build and establish the church.
There is much to do. We need to build this area to be strong enough to form an additional stake. We need to baptize to build these wards and branches. In the new member meeting, many, perhaps most of the new converts were the only members in their families. We need to work with them to teach and baptize their families. Work closely with all part member families so they will trust you to help teach those they love. We need to help rescue the many members who are not currently active. We need to encourage temple attendance as a goal to investigators and all members, new and old.
I feel so blessed to see the progress the Church has made during the last 40 years. With the way you work, the way you build the wards and branches, imagine what the next 40 years will bring!
Faithfully your brother,
President Bishop
This week was a time of overwhelming emotion for me. Sister Bishop and I attended the Youth Conference and then the Zhong Xin Stake conference. The youth conference was wonderful. There were more than 400 youth in attendance. The event was planned and lead entirely by Chinese Leaders. A group of missionaries helped with a missionary night. The missionaries helped each of the youth record their testimony in a copy of the Book of Mormon. The youth then promised to share the Book of Mormon with a non-member friend. These youth were excited to share the gospel with others. Elder Bednar said the best way to prepare for a mission is to become a missionary. Our missionaries helped each of the youth become a missionary. I am grateful to all who participated. Each missionary showed initiative as they worked with their group to help them feel the spirit and become missionaries. This is the future of Taiwan. In fact, it may well be the future of the church in all of Asia.
When I arrived in Taiwan there was one branch in the area which is now Zhong Xin Stake. That was a Branch in Zhang Hua. After I arrived, missionaries were sent to Nan Tou and Dou Liu. The first Sacrament meeting in Dou Liu had 4 elders and 2 member sisters who had joined the Church in Tai Zhong but who lived in Dou Liu. Today the beautiful Stake Center in Yuan Lin was full and overflowing. There were 3 choirs, a primary, a youth, and an adult choir. The stake President, President Chen, went around and greeted everyone by name. During the Sunday Morning session many new brethren were sustained to receive the Melchizedek Priesthood. I lost count but I think there were 12! After the Sunday Morning session, a new member meeting was held. This meeting also filled the chapel. I am so moved by the growth of the church in this area. I am so grateful to each of you for helping to build and establish the church.
There is much to do. We need to build this area to be strong enough to form an additional stake. We need to baptize to build these wards and branches. In the new member meeting, many, perhaps most of the new converts were the only members in their families. We need to work with them to teach and baptize their families. Work closely with all part member families so they will trust you to help teach those they love. We need to help rescue the many members who are not currently active. We need to encourage temple attendance as a goal to investigators and all members, new and old.
I feel so blessed to see the progress the Church has made during the last 40 years. With the way you work, the way you build the wards and branches, imagine what the next 40 years will bring!
Faithfully your brother,
President Bishop
August 29, 2010 - New Companion
Hello My Beautiful Family! and Happy Happy birthday to Alyea!!! 17 years old?
So on to the best news ever. No I didn't move but I left the threesome and picked up my new companion today Elder Kindall Christian Palmer, He is from Mapleton, Utah. 19 years old been on island for 5 months on his 4th move call. His dad served in Hong Kong spoke Cantonesse came home and got a degree in mandarin! So his Chinese is already pretty good but not fluent yet, I'll help him out for sure. He also lived in Hong Kong for 9 years, he is a STUD! He will be my favorite companion for many years to come. I met him in Tainan when elder Aston trained him and at pizza hut I said out of the blue. You will be my Junior companion one day. So on Saturday night I was pretty happy!
So on to the best news ever. No I didn't move but I left the threesome and picked up my new companion today Elder Kindall Christian Palmer, He is from Mapleton, Utah. 19 years old been on island for 5 months on his 4th move call. His dad served in Hong Kong spoke Cantonesse came home and got a degree in mandarin! So his Chinese is already pretty good but not fluent yet, I'll help him out for sure. He also lived in Hong Kong for 9 years, he is a STUD! He will be my favorite companion for many years to come. I met him in Tainan when elder Aston trained him and at pizza hut I said out of the blue. You will be my Junior companion one day. So on Saturday night I was pretty happy!
August 27, 2010 - Baptism
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Last Friday I had 2 baptisms...Janet and Derek! I gave Derek his name, he is a cool kid so I wanted to hive a cool name like Uncle Derek...right?
Wang Li Xuan (Janet) 17 years old and Yang Qiang (Derek) 22. Both so golden!
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The Mother of Janet
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The Mom didn't want her to be baptized until she turned 18 but I fasted for her and the next week saw a miracle! The Mom agreed...this is her signing the baptimal record!!!! The church is true.
August 22, 2010 - President Bishop's Letter
Dear Elders and Sisters,
I say again that I love reading your letters. The letters are confidential, but often they are so wonderful I want to share your experiences with other missionaries. When I share these stories, I do so with permission.
We saw huge blessings and tons of miracles in last week. Since our investigators are so tough, we decided to fast for them. And, the miracles started happening way fast. After said the prayer, I contacted a less active member who I had never seen before on the street and found that her daughter has not been baptized and she's very willing to be baptized! When I asked the mom 'Was she baptized?' and the mother said not yet, the daughter asked her mom 'Mom, can I be baptized?!' immediately; the mother answered 'okay'. So I added her and gave her a week C goal.
This is an example of how the Lord brings His prepared people to prepared missionaries. It also highlights how working with less active members can bring you member referrals.
Now I need to ask your help in a couple of areas:
First, please be careful with your use of air conditioners. When you leave your apartment or leave a room, turn off the air conditioner. We still have some hot days ahead. If your electric bill is over NT 2,000 per month, you may be charged for the difference. Thank you for being careful with the sacred funds consecrated to pay for your missionary service.
Second, several missionaries have related incidents where a baptismal service had some hitches, detracting from the spirit. In one case a sister came to the service, but did not realize she would have to get wet, so she postponed the baptism. Each week our mission baptizes 20 or more converts. I know that most of the services are great. We would like them all to be that way. Please follow a check list to make sure that all the preparations are in place for a wonderful baptism.
· Arrive early to ensure that the font has enough water and the temperature is right.
· Arrive early enough to take pictures, so that the baptismal service can start on time.
· Please do a “dry run” with the investigator so he or she knows exactly where they will stand, how to hold their hands, how to plug their nose etc.
· Make sure the clothing, including a change of underwear is appropriate.
· Elders, make sure you practice if you are doing the baptism. Sisters, make sure the person doing the baptism knows the prayer and also does a dry run preferably with the investigator.
· Review the program with the ward mission leader or bishopric member.
In ordinances (of the church), the power of godliness is manifest. D&C 84:20. We want 100% of the baptismal services to be wonderful in every way. Thank you for your help in ensuring that this happens.
Thank you again for your faithful service,
Faithfully Your Brother,
President Bishop
I say again that I love reading your letters. The letters are confidential, but often they are so wonderful I want to share your experiences with other missionaries. When I share these stories, I do so with permission.
We saw huge blessings and tons of miracles in last week. Since our investigators are so tough, we decided to fast for them. And, the miracles started happening way fast. After said the prayer, I contacted a less active member who I had never seen before on the street and found that her daughter has not been baptized and she's very willing to be baptized! When I asked the mom 'Was she baptized?' and the mother said not yet, the daughter asked her mom 'Mom, can I be baptized?!' immediately; the mother answered 'okay'. So I added her and gave her a week C goal.
This is an example of how the Lord brings His prepared people to prepared missionaries. It also highlights how working with less active members can bring you member referrals.
Now I need to ask your help in a couple of areas:
First, please be careful with your use of air conditioners. When you leave your apartment or leave a room, turn off the air conditioner. We still have some hot days ahead. If your electric bill is over NT 2,000 per month, you may be charged for the difference. Thank you for being careful with the sacred funds consecrated to pay for your missionary service.
Second, several missionaries have related incidents where a baptismal service had some hitches, detracting from the spirit. In one case a sister came to the service, but did not realize she would have to get wet, so she postponed the baptism. Each week our mission baptizes 20 or more converts. I know that most of the services are great. We would like them all to be that way. Please follow a check list to make sure that all the preparations are in place for a wonderful baptism.
· Arrive early to ensure that the font has enough water and the temperature is right.
· Arrive early enough to take pictures, so that the baptismal service can start on time.
· Please do a “dry run” with the investigator so he or she knows exactly where they will stand, how to hold their hands, how to plug their nose etc.
· Make sure the clothing, including a change of underwear is appropriate.
· Elders, make sure you practice if you are doing the baptism. Sisters, make sure the person doing the baptism knows the prayer and also does a dry run preferably with the investigator.
· Review the program with the ward mission leader or bishopric member.
In ordinances (of the church), the power of godliness is manifest. D&C 84:20. We want 100% of the baptismal services to be wonderful in every way. Thank you for your help in ensuring that this happens.
Thank you again for your faithful service,
Faithfully Your Brother,
President Bishop
August 15, 2010 - Temporary Companions
Hello My Beautiful Family!!! Happy Anniversary!
Ya! He is Gone!!! He moved up to tai zhong this morning, probably so the Mission pres. and leaders could watch him! I heard we might be getting a typhoon soon. They won’t tell me my release date until October probably.
So ya Elder lin is gone and I will tell you more about that when I get home. Super long story!
So for the next 2 weeks I will be with Elder Salgado (district leader) and his companion elder Jaramillo that he has been training! So this will be a fun experience for all of us. I still have to maintain my area and stuff. I just moved some of my stuff to their apartment. So I will be there until the 30th and hopefully I can get a cool new companion..so yeah that’s what happened this week.
Oh real quick yesterday was tai nan stake conference and I got to see so many people that I know very well! All the way back from guiren to yong kang and tai nan wards!!! There was a lot of people that attended and the talks were really good! My progressing investigator yang qiang drove us over there with my new member yang and guo and janet the 17 yr old girl that needs to do good on her test in order for her mom to sign for baptism...so that was way fun to attend with them..then afterwards I met with Pres. Bishop and that’s why elder lin is gone! Actually I will write you a big letter about that. Man I have not gotten a letter from you in 2 weeks, hope one comes soon.
I love you!
Elder Christensen
Ya! He is Gone!!! He moved up to tai zhong this morning, probably so the Mission pres. and leaders could watch him! I heard we might be getting a typhoon soon. They won’t tell me my release date until October probably.
So ya Elder lin is gone and I will tell you more about that when I get home. Super long story!
So for the next 2 weeks I will be with Elder Salgado (district leader) and his companion elder Jaramillo that he has been training! So this will be a fun experience for all of us. I still have to maintain my area and stuff. I just moved some of my stuff to their apartment. So I will be there until the 30th and hopefully I can get a cool new companion..so yeah that’s what happened this week.
Oh real quick yesterday was tai nan stake conference and I got to see so many people that I know very well! All the way back from guiren to yong kang and tai nan wards!!! There was a lot of people that attended and the talks were really good! My progressing investigator yang qiang drove us over there with my new member yang and guo and janet the 17 yr old girl that needs to do good on her test in order for her mom to sign for baptism...so that was way fun to attend with them..then afterwards I met with Pres. Bishop and that’s why elder lin is gone! Actually I will write you a big letter about that. Man I have not gotten a letter from you in 2 weeks, hope one comes soon.
I love you!
Elder Christensen
August 9, 2010 - Letter
Hello My Beautiful Family~!
Wow you already got my release date? That’s crazy! ok cool let’s not talk too much about that then, they said 2011 right? haha lol.
So I am having an awesome day and had an awesome week. Only 3 investigators came to church but 2 of them are progressing towards baptism. Our week C passed his baptismal interview yesterday. He is so golden and if it wasn't for the member referral he wouldn't be as good as he is! His date is for the 28th, so just needs to come to church 2 more times and he is good. He came all 3 hours yesterday for the first time. I hope one day he will serve a mission! His parents are from China. He was born in China but has a Taiwanese accent. We are hoping to meet with his family this week. We are also waiting on a 17 year old girl to do really good on her senior high school test. When she gets a really good grade her mom will sign the record so hopefully August 21 we can get her in the water. Also last Friday we helped a couple get baptized! They are planning to get married on December 25th! So that’s exciting. I’m sad they didn’t come yesterday to get the Holy Ghost but they said they were at a family’s wedding in Tai bei. So next Sunday they will get it for sure. Right now we have 3 baptisms just 5 more to go to hit our goal of 8 for this move call!
So ya that’s our investigators right now. Many are really solid, most really week. I’m just trying to focus now to hit my move call target and get along with my companion. Which recently has been going really good. No fights!
So yesterday we went over to jian lins to eat dinner and he told me the most amazing news!!! This Christmas day the Lakers and The Heat will play each other!! Which I’m sure you already heard! I dislike Lebron! I hope Kobe breaks his ankles. Anyways I can’t beleive I’m going to be able to watch that! That in its self right now makes me super trunky! lol
So I have some baptisms pics to send that’s all I have for this week.
Ya it’s hot today but since we are in August and until October it rains...hopefully another typhoon comes I love working in typhoons!!! in a little bit we are going to play basketball! Tell max I say hi, and tell him he better not be rooting for the heat this year or I won’t talk to him when I get home..lol what cruise are they on? Where they going?
I know I’m working on my nails. My new member slaps my hand if he sees me doing it. lol How’s the fam? Didn't get any letters this last week. Oh forgot to tell you about zone conference. Way good. President Bishop talked about the Comforter. I learned a lot.
I love you!
Love, Elder Christensen
Wow you already got my release date? That’s crazy! ok cool let’s not talk too much about that then, they said 2011 right? haha lol.
So I am having an awesome day and had an awesome week. Only 3 investigators came to church but 2 of them are progressing towards baptism. Our week C passed his baptismal interview yesterday. He is so golden and if it wasn't for the member referral he wouldn't be as good as he is! His date is for the 28th, so just needs to come to church 2 more times and he is good. He came all 3 hours yesterday for the first time. I hope one day he will serve a mission! His parents are from China. He was born in China but has a Taiwanese accent. We are hoping to meet with his family this week. We are also waiting on a 17 year old girl to do really good on her senior high school test. When she gets a really good grade her mom will sign the record so hopefully August 21 we can get her in the water. Also last Friday we helped a couple get baptized! They are planning to get married on December 25th! So that’s exciting. I’m sad they didn’t come yesterday to get the Holy Ghost but they said they were at a family’s wedding in Tai bei. So next Sunday they will get it for sure. Right now we have 3 baptisms just 5 more to go to hit our goal of 8 for this move call!
So ya that’s our investigators right now. Many are really solid, most really week. I’m just trying to focus now to hit my move call target and get along with my companion. Which recently has been going really good. No fights!
So yesterday we went over to jian lins to eat dinner and he told me the most amazing news!!! This Christmas day the Lakers and The Heat will play each other!! Which I’m sure you already heard! I dislike Lebron! I hope Kobe breaks his ankles. Anyways I can’t beleive I’m going to be able to watch that! That in its self right now makes me super trunky! lol
So I have some baptisms pics to send that’s all I have for this week.
Ya it’s hot today but since we are in August and until October it rains...hopefully another typhoon comes I love working in typhoons!!! in a little bit we are going to play basketball! Tell max I say hi, and tell him he better not be rooting for the heat this year or I won’t talk to him when I get home..lol what cruise are they on? Where they going?
I know I’m working on my nails. My new member slaps my hand if he sees me doing it. lol How’s the fam? Didn't get any letters this last week. Oh forgot to tell you about zone conference. Way good. President Bishop talked about the Comforter. I learned a lot.
I love you!
Love, Elder Christensen
August 8, 2010 - President Bishop's Letter
Dear Elders and Sisters,
I will not write a general letter to all missionaries every week, but I will try to write when I have impressions that apply to many missionaries.
Sister Bishop and I greatly enjoyed the Zone Conferences. We are overwhelmed with your goodness, your faithfulness, and with our love for you. We are excited about the Simplified Curriculum. If we can help our investigators feel the spirit even more while we teach, more will be baptized, stay strong in the church, attend the temple, and strengthen the church. I am gratified that so many of you are already finding ways to have the head of the house hold offer kneeling prayers, and how to get to know your investigators better by asking inspired questions.
In the last couple of weeks, several of you noted that your letters did not get transmitted. I think after about 15 minutes, the IMOS program closes down. If you have a long letter, consider writing it first on some other program, then pasting it in the IMOS Letter to the President.
I appreciate how difficult it is to keep shoes looking good when you have been rained on all week. Please see Missionary Handbook, page 11. Please polish your shoes, at least once per week. You might do that on Saturday rather than preparation day so the shoes will look sharp for Sunday. The polish will also help to protect leather from damage from the rain.
We have one change in the schedule for September. Elder Pratt, of the area presidency will be conducting a mission tour the week of September 13. We will meet with 2 zones per day for 4 days. We will tell you more on the schedule after we have more details. We were planning to start the Leadership Training that week, but now it will be pushed back a week.
Several missionaries have asked me about how to get investigators baptized if they can only attend part the meetings on Sunday. The standard is 3 weeks attendance with at least 2 of the 3 weeks all three hours. If there is some exceptional reason the person cannot attend, call me and we can discuss exceptions to the standard. However, we also need to teach about Sabbath day observance. What are the blessings of keeping the Sabbath day Holy? New members need the spiritual strength of attending all meetings. All members need the instruction from Sunday School. The sisters need the association of Relief Society. The brethren need to learn their priesthood responsibilities. How will they do that if they do not attend priesthood? All members also need the spiritual renewal that can be obtained only by dedicating Sunday to the Lord. Work, school, recreation, or bu xi ban, do not provide the blessings of keeping the Sabbath day holy. We expect Latterday Saints to keep all of the commandments including keeping the Sabbath day holy. Of course we will not exclude someone from baptism if there is a temporary conflict. But we also should work with investigators and less active members to resolve the scheduling conflict so they can come and be nourished in church and begin to contribute as well.
We love you and thank you for being worthy, obedient, diligent missionaries.
Sincerely,
President and Sister Bishop
I will not write a general letter to all missionaries every week, but I will try to write when I have impressions that apply to many missionaries.
Sister Bishop and I greatly enjoyed the Zone Conferences. We are overwhelmed with your goodness, your faithfulness, and with our love for you. We are excited about the Simplified Curriculum. If we can help our investigators feel the spirit even more while we teach, more will be baptized, stay strong in the church, attend the temple, and strengthen the church. I am gratified that so many of you are already finding ways to have the head of the house hold offer kneeling prayers, and how to get to know your investigators better by asking inspired questions.
In the last couple of weeks, several of you noted that your letters did not get transmitted. I think after about 15 minutes, the IMOS program closes down. If you have a long letter, consider writing it first on some other program, then pasting it in the IMOS Letter to the President.
I appreciate how difficult it is to keep shoes looking good when you have been rained on all week. Please see Missionary Handbook, page 11. Please polish your shoes, at least once per week. You might do that on Saturday rather than preparation day so the shoes will look sharp for Sunday. The polish will also help to protect leather from damage from the rain.
We have one change in the schedule for September. Elder Pratt, of the area presidency will be conducting a mission tour the week of September 13. We will meet with 2 zones per day for 4 days. We will tell you more on the schedule after we have more details. We were planning to start the Leadership Training that week, but now it will be pushed back a week.
Several missionaries have asked me about how to get investigators baptized if they can only attend part the meetings on Sunday. The standard is 3 weeks attendance with at least 2 of the 3 weeks all three hours. If there is some exceptional reason the person cannot attend, call me and we can discuss exceptions to the standard. However, we also need to teach about Sabbath day observance. What are the blessings of keeping the Sabbath day Holy? New members need the spiritual strength of attending all meetings. All members need the instruction from Sunday School. The sisters need the association of Relief Society. The brethren need to learn their priesthood responsibilities. How will they do that if they do not attend priesthood? All members also need the spiritual renewal that can be obtained only by dedicating Sunday to the Lord. Work, school, recreation, or bu xi ban, do not provide the blessings of keeping the Sabbath day holy. We expect Latterday Saints to keep all of the commandments including keeping the Sabbath day holy. Of course we will not exclude someone from baptism if there is a temporary conflict. But we also should work with investigators and less active members to resolve the scheduling conflict so they can come and be nourished in church and begin to contribute as well.
We love you and thank you for being worthy, obedient, diligent missionaries.
Sincerely,
President and Sister Bishop
August 2, 2010 - Letter and New Apartment
Hello My Beautiful Family,
First Congrats to the newlyweds! Tanner you look like a stud like always, and Sandra looked like a Queen! Beautiful pictures guys thank you for that! Ya go Giants. Wow you are at that game, I actually saw the end of that lol. We went over to a members house last Saturday to eat with them and my investigator that was preparing to be baptized that night! Ya it's only week 3 now and I got a baptism!!!!
So ya Dad who is this Audrey Huff? He is a stud! I saw him belt a homer as we were eating with the my gators less active dad! Did you see that one? wow it never dawned on me that you were there! so cool, saw Lincecum and almost flipped out..1 his hair is so crazy long and 2 he can pitch. haha I tried not to watch but when I told the dad if he can turn it off he said no! But now since you were there watching that makes me feel good and I was a part of the family again. lets just say I was there in spirit!
Congrats to Evan!! I hope he comes to Taiwan! Well everything has been going really good. I have alot of pics for the blog and my baptism I want to show you. let me know if you have any questions? oh me and my companion are starting to become friends, jian lin {a member} helped us out alot!
First Congrats to the newlyweds! Tanner you look like a stud like always, and Sandra looked like a Queen! Beautiful pictures guys thank you for that! Ya go Giants. Wow you are at that game, I actually saw the end of that lol. We went over to a members house last Saturday to eat with them and my investigator that was preparing to be baptized that night! Ya it's only week 3 now and I got a baptism!!!!
So ya Dad who is this Audrey Huff? He is a stud! I saw him belt a homer as we were eating with the my gators less active dad! Did you see that one? wow it never dawned on me that you were there! so cool, saw Lincecum and almost flipped out..1 his hair is so crazy long and 2 he can pitch. haha I tried not to watch but when I told the dad if he can turn it off he said no! But now since you were there watching that makes me feel good and I was a part of the family again. lets just say I was there in spirit!
Congrats to Evan!! I hope he comes to Taiwan! Well everything has been going really good. I have alot of pics for the blog and my baptism I want to show you. let me know if you have any questions? oh me and my companion are starting to become friends, jian lin {a member} helped us out alot!
July 26, 2010 - Letter - 16 New Investigators
Hello My Beautiful Family,
WOW!!! Oh boy do I have a lot to say today! This week was the best week of my mission. As you know when we missionaries talk about a good week we are talking about SUNDAY!!! It’s all about Sunday, because a good week leads up to a good week at church. However, I was not prepared for such a huge blessing. Ok I won't keep you guys guessing any longer. Yesterday I had a record breaking 16 investigators come to church, including 2 families! A family of 4 that I love dearly and 3 random people that some members brought! Last night I reported this number and my district leader freaked out! haha and then this morning my zone leader called me up and said," Hey Elder I heard we have a big problem, you were complaining that too many people came to church! haha ya I was, I wasn't ready to take care of all of them so sadly some left really fast after Sacrament Meeting. I tried to switch off and talk to all of them but very hard indeed. Even better than that after church my two really good gators a bf and gf passed their baptismal interview! And my good member friends’ little brother will be baptized this Saturday! He will be my most favorite/sweetest baptism ever! He is so prepared he also came to church 3 times in a row. You will definitely get that picture next week if my stupid camera will work. It’s being weird lately. I think one of the batteries isn’t compatible but the other is.
So ya last night we went to their house to eat and we all were laughing the whole time. It’s weird my Chinese lately, I rarely not understand what they are saying. My Chinese is definitely a gift from god! I love it!!! We all will be sad if this area is not my last. Jian Lin (Dirk) and his bro da xiang. Man I love those guys. Jian Lin loves the Dallas Mavericks! Today we played ball and he shot like Dirk Nowitki. But of course Kobe came through and I whooped them all.
I’m going to send this real quick. Yesterday at church we had a minor earth quake plus its raining right now. Don’t want to lose this letter.
I am so happy with my companion, because last Tuesday he finally opened up to me and started talking. After we set goals and made plans to change we became united and we both started to talk about things other than missionary work. Which hasn't happened yet before he would never chit chat with me. Now it’s great every day we are talking and I can finally feel the Holy Ghost in our lessons. I couldn't be any happier!
love you so much/ I love you even to KOLOB! lol
WOW!!! Oh boy do I have a lot to say today! This week was the best week of my mission. As you know when we missionaries talk about a good week we are talking about SUNDAY!!! It’s all about Sunday, because a good week leads up to a good week at church. However, I was not prepared for such a huge blessing. Ok I won't keep you guys guessing any longer. Yesterday I had a record breaking 16 investigators come to church, including 2 families! A family of 4 that I love dearly and 3 random people that some members brought! Last night I reported this number and my district leader freaked out! haha and then this morning my zone leader called me up and said," Hey Elder I heard we have a big problem, you were complaining that too many people came to church! haha ya I was, I wasn't ready to take care of all of them so sadly some left really fast after Sacrament Meeting. I tried to switch off and talk to all of them but very hard indeed. Even better than that after church my two really good gators a bf and gf passed their baptismal interview! And my good member friends’ little brother will be baptized this Saturday! He will be my most favorite/sweetest baptism ever! He is so prepared he also came to church 3 times in a row. You will definitely get that picture next week if my stupid camera will work. It’s being weird lately. I think one of the batteries isn’t compatible but the other is.
So ya last night we went to their house to eat and we all were laughing the whole time. It’s weird my Chinese lately, I rarely not understand what they are saying. My Chinese is definitely a gift from god! I love it!!! We all will be sad if this area is not my last. Jian Lin (Dirk) and his bro da xiang. Man I love those guys. Jian Lin loves the Dallas Mavericks! Today we played ball and he shot like Dirk Nowitki. But of course Kobe came through and I whooped them all.
I’m going to send this real quick. Yesterday at church we had a minor earth quake plus its raining right now. Don’t want to lose this letter.
I am so happy with my companion, because last Tuesday he finally opened up to me and started talking. After we set goals and made plans to change we became united and we both started to talk about things other than missionary work. Which hasn't happened yet before he would never chit chat with me. Now it’s great every day we are talking and I can finally feel the Holy Ghost in our lessons. I couldn't be any happier!
love you so much/ I love you even to KOLOB! lol
July 26, 2010 - Message From President Bishop
Dear Elders and Sisters,
I would like to thank you for all of your hard work. Yesterday I went out working with the assistants. The day was hot, but raining. The rain gear we used made me even hotter. I was sweating so much that I am not sure I would have been any dryer had I not worn it. We had a goal of 15 new investigators. We met the goal, but I only got 2 of the referrals. I have much to learn about how to get the information before the light changes. We taught one new investigator, one returning investigator, and 2 less active members. I loved working with Elder Taylor and Elder Mix. These missionaries know what they are here to do. They are excellent planners and excellent teachers. People committed to repent, to read, to attend church, to be baptized, and to live their covenants. When I returned home to the mission home, my new white shirt was black from the soot and borrowed rain gear. I understand how hard you work each day to bring this gospel to the people of Taiwan.
Thank you for working in the rain and the heat every day and every night laboring for our Savior to fulfill His purpose and your purpose of building the Lord’s Kingdom here in Taiwan.
I want to turn to the subject of your letters and what I would like in your letters, as well as what kind of reply you can expect from me. I read every one of your weekly letters, including those in Chinese which I use a computer program to help translate. My written Chinese is getting better, but is not good enough to read most of the letters.
I would like you to focus on positive experiences and feelings such as the following: Recent converts, strengthening less active members, member referrals, things you learned from personal or companion study, something your companion did to serve you, something you learned from your companion, revelation you received, tender mercies of the Lord to you or your family and miracles you have seen in your life. I also expect in your letters a general statement of how you are doing. Happy, grateful, worried about family, discouraged, tired, sick, or what ever. If you are having problems, please let me know. Having said that, remember that dwelling on problems may make them worse. Focus on the positives in your missionary experience, but at the same time, be honest. Focusing on the blessings in your life will enhance a grateful heart and help you to find joy in your life.
I love reading your letters. I share in the joys and successes you are having in your mission. I am grateful for the trust you show in sharing your feelings with me. Because I have over 160 letters to read I cannot write long personal notes on each letter. I will answer brief questions, and I will call you if it sounds like we should talk. Most weeks I will not give you personal written response to your letters.
Every day I express gratitude for you, the worthy, obedient, diligent representatives of the Lord. I am grateful to be able to serve with you here in Taiwan.
Faithfully, your brother
President Clark T. Bishop
I would like to thank you for all of your hard work. Yesterday I went out working with the assistants. The day was hot, but raining. The rain gear we used made me even hotter. I was sweating so much that I am not sure I would have been any dryer had I not worn it. We had a goal of 15 new investigators. We met the goal, but I only got 2 of the referrals. I have much to learn about how to get the information before the light changes. We taught one new investigator, one returning investigator, and 2 less active members. I loved working with Elder Taylor and Elder Mix. These missionaries know what they are here to do. They are excellent planners and excellent teachers. People committed to repent, to read, to attend church, to be baptized, and to live their covenants. When I returned home to the mission home, my new white shirt was black from the soot and borrowed rain gear. I understand how hard you work each day to bring this gospel to the people of Taiwan.
Thank you for working in the rain and the heat every day and every night laboring for our Savior to fulfill His purpose and your purpose of building the Lord’s Kingdom here in Taiwan.
I want to turn to the subject of your letters and what I would like in your letters, as well as what kind of reply you can expect from me. I read every one of your weekly letters, including those in Chinese which I use a computer program to help translate. My written Chinese is getting better, but is not good enough to read most of the letters.
I would like you to focus on positive experiences and feelings such as the following: Recent converts, strengthening less active members, member referrals, things you learned from personal or companion study, something your companion did to serve you, something you learned from your companion, revelation you received, tender mercies of the Lord to you or your family and miracles you have seen in your life. I also expect in your letters a general statement of how you are doing. Happy, grateful, worried about family, discouraged, tired, sick, or what ever. If you are having problems, please let me know. Having said that, remember that dwelling on problems may make them worse. Focus on the positives in your missionary experience, but at the same time, be honest. Focusing on the blessings in your life will enhance a grateful heart and help you to find joy in your life.
I love reading your letters. I share in the joys and successes you are having in your mission. I am grateful for the trust you show in sharing your feelings with me. Because I have over 160 letters to read I cannot write long personal notes on each letter. I will answer brief questions, and I will call you if it sounds like we should talk. Most weeks I will not give you personal written response to your letters.
Every day I express gratitude for you, the worthy, obedient, diligent representatives of the Lord. I am grateful to be able to serve with you here in Taiwan.
Faithfully, your brother
President Clark T. Bishop
July 25, 2010 - President Bishop's Letter
Dear Elders and Sisters,
I would like to thank you for all of your hard work. Yesterday I went out working with the assistants. The day was hot, but raining. The rain gear we used made me even hotter. I was sweating so much that I am not sure I would have been any dryer had I not worn it. We had a goal of 15 new investigators. We met the goal, but I only got 2 of the referrals. I have much to learn about how to get the information before the light changes. We taught one new investigator, one returning investigator, and 2 less active members. I loved working with Elder Taylor and Elder Mix. These missionaries know what they are here to do. They are excellent planners and excellent teachers. People committed to repent, to read, to attend church, to be baptized, and to live their covenants. When I returned home to the mission home, my new white shirt was black from the soot and borrowed rain gear. I understand how hard you work each day to bring this gospel to the people of Taiwan.
Thank you for working in the rain and the heat every day and every night laboring for our Savior to fulfill His purpose and your purpose of building the Lord’s Kingdom here in Taiwan.
I want to turn to the subject of your letters and what I would like in your letters, as well as what kind of reply you can expect from me. I read every one of your weekly letters, including those in Chinese which I use a computer program to help translate. My written Chinese is getting better, but is not good enough to read most of the letters.
I would like you to focus on positive experiences and feelings such as the following: Recent converts, strengthening less active members, member referrals, things you learned from personal or companion study, something your companion did to serve you, something you learned from your companion, revelation you received, tender mercies of the Lord to you or your family and miracles you have seen in your life. I also expect in your letters a general statement of how you are doing. Happy, grateful, worried about family, discouraged, tired, sick, or what ever. If you are having problems, please let me know. Having said that, remember that dwelling on problems may make them worse. Focus on the positives in your missionary experience, but at the same time, be honest. Focusing on the blessings in your life will enhance a grateful heart and help you to find joy in your life.
I love reading your letters. I share in the joys and successes you are having in your mission. I am grateful for the trust you show in sharing your feelings with me. Because I have over 160 letters to read I cannot write long personal notes on each letter. I will answer brief questions, and I will call you if it sounds like we should talk. Most weeks I will not give you personal written response to your letters.
Every day I express gratitude for you, the worthy, obedient, diligent representatives of the Lord. I am grateful to be able to serve with you here in Taiwan.
Faithfully, your brother
President Clark T. Bishop
I would like to thank you for all of your hard work. Yesterday I went out working with the assistants. The day was hot, but raining. The rain gear we used made me even hotter. I was sweating so much that I am not sure I would have been any dryer had I not worn it. We had a goal of 15 new investigators. We met the goal, but I only got 2 of the referrals. I have much to learn about how to get the information before the light changes. We taught one new investigator, one returning investigator, and 2 less active members. I loved working with Elder Taylor and Elder Mix. These missionaries know what they are here to do. They are excellent planners and excellent teachers. People committed to repent, to read, to attend church, to be baptized, and to live their covenants. When I returned home to the mission home, my new white shirt was black from the soot and borrowed rain gear. I understand how hard you work each day to bring this gospel to the people of Taiwan.
Thank you for working in the rain and the heat every day and every night laboring for our Savior to fulfill His purpose and your purpose of building the Lord’s Kingdom here in Taiwan.
I want to turn to the subject of your letters and what I would like in your letters, as well as what kind of reply you can expect from me. I read every one of your weekly letters, including those in Chinese which I use a computer program to help translate. My written Chinese is getting better, but is not good enough to read most of the letters.
I would like you to focus on positive experiences and feelings such as the following: Recent converts, strengthening less active members, member referrals, things you learned from personal or companion study, something your companion did to serve you, something you learned from your companion, revelation you received, tender mercies of the Lord to you or your family and miracles you have seen in your life. I also expect in your letters a general statement of how you are doing. Happy, grateful, worried about family, discouraged, tired, sick, or what ever. If you are having problems, please let me know. Having said that, remember that dwelling on problems may make them worse. Focus on the positives in your missionary experience, but at the same time, be honest. Focusing on the blessings in your life will enhance a grateful heart and help you to find joy in your life.
I love reading your letters. I share in the joys and successes you are having in your mission. I am grateful for the trust you show in sharing your feelings with me. Because I have over 160 letters to read I cannot write long personal notes on each letter. I will answer brief questions, and I will call you if it sounds like we should talk. Most weeks I will not give you personal written response to your letters.
Every day I express gratitude for you, the worthy, obedient, diligent representatives of the Lord. I am grateful to be able to serve with you here in Taiwan.
Faithfully, your brother
President Clark T. Bishop
July 18, 2010 - President Bishop's Letter
Dear Elders and Sisters,
This week I met with Brother Li, the director of Seminary and Institute in Southern Taiwan. We reviewed the numbers of new converts enrolled in seminary. In many cases, the percentage of new converts enrolled in church education has declined. In some cases the total number increased, but even though more people were baptized the percentage still declined. As we strive to nurture our new converts Seminary and Institute can improve gospel understanding and strengthen testimonies. Please ensure that investigators and new members are enrolled in Seminary or Institute. Ask them if they attend, and what they learned. Ask them if they have any questions.
This week we have been working hard on the decisions for the move call. This is my first. We have prayerfully deliberated to assign where each of you should go. There are many things to consider. We ask your support in working with your assigned companion with faith and diligence.
President Uchtdorf talked about finding treasure on your mission. Each of you are a jewel in our treasure chest. We are grateful for your faithful service. We love you and we pray for you.
Sincerely,
President and Sister Bishop
This week I met with Brother Li, the director of Seminary and Institute in Southern Taiwan. We reviewed the numbers of new converts enrolled in seminary. In many cases, the percentage of new converts enrolled in church education has declined. In some cases the total number increased, but even though more people were baptized the percentage still declined. As we strive to nurture our new converts Seminary and Institute can improve gospel understanding and strengthen testimonies. Please ensure that investigators and new members are enrolled in Seminary or Institute. Ask them if they attend, and what they learned. Ask them if they have any questions.
This week we have been working hard on the decisions for the move call. This is my first. We have prayerfully deliberated to assign where each of you should go. There are many things to consider. We ask your support in working with your assigned companion with faith and diligence.
President Uchtdorf talked about finding treasure on your mission. Each of you are a jewel in our treasure chest. We are grateful for your faithful service. We love you and we pray for you.
Sincerely,
President and Sister Bishop
July 12, 2010 - Letter from new Mission President
July 12, 2010
Dear Elders and Sisters,
What an amazing 2 weeks we have had in Taiwan! We love the country, we love the members, and we especially love you. We have been grateful for the warm welcome we have received from each of you as we toured the mission and met and interviewed you. We are also grateful for the wonderful mission conference. President Uchtdorf was very pleased and impressed with your reverence and participation during our Mission Conference.
President Perkins mentioned in the Mission Conference that we have been instructed to implement a new training schedule. That schedule will be according to months, not transfer cycles. The transfer cycles will remain every 6 weeks. However, other missionary meetings will be based on months. We will have Zone Conferences every 3 months, leadership training (Assistants, Zone Leaders, District Leaders and Trainers) every 2 months, specialized training (Zone Leaders and District Leaders) every month. We will have Zone Leader Council every month. We have been instructed to train on 8 specific lessons from Preach My Gospel when we begin this training schedule. As we begin training we will address these topics:
* Doctrine of Christ
* Role of Holy Ghost in conversion
* Revelation through prayer
* Revelation through the Book of Mormon
* Revelation through church attendance
* Teach people, not lessons
* We invite, they commit, we follow up
* How to begin teaching
The dates are not set for these training cycles but we will let you know when we know. Sister Bishop and I are still learning our way around. We do not know everything that has been done in the past. We do not know yet how the Lord will have us fulfill our mission. We do know that we have been called to establish the church by finding, teaching, baptizing, and helping endure to the end. We will be getting additional information to you in the weeks to come. Until then, keep doing as you have been taught, obeying the Mission Handbooks, following Preach My Gospel. Continue to work with recent converts and less actives. Ask the ward leaders how you can help serve them and be a blessing to the members. This is the Lord's work and He will guide you and bless your efforts.
Sincerely,
President and Sister Bishop
Dear Elders and Sisters,
What an amazing 2 weeks we have had in Taiwan! We love the country, we love the members, and we especially love you. We have been grateful for the warm welcome we have received from each of you as we toured the mission and met and interviewed you. We are also grateful for the wonderful mission conference. President Uchtdorf was very pleased and impressed with your reverence and participation during our Mission Conference.
President Perkins mentioned in the Mission Conference that we have been instructed to implement a new training schedule. That schedule will be according to months, not transfer cycles. The transfer cycles will remain every 6 weeks. However, other missionary meetings will be based on months. We will have Zone Conferences every 3 months, leadership training (Assistants, Zone Leaders, District Leaders and Trainers) every 2 months, specialized training (Zone Leaders and District Leaders) every month. We will have Zone Leader Council every month. We have been instructed to train on 8 specific lessons from Preach My Gospel when we begin this training schedule. As we begin training we will address these topics:
* Doctrine of Christ
* Role of Holy Ghost in conversion
* Revelation through prayer
* Revelation through the Book of Mormon
* Revelation through church attendance
* Teach people, not lessons
* We invite, they commit, we follow up
* How to begin teaching
The dates are not set for these training cycles but we will let you know when we know. Sister Bishop and I are still learning our way around. We do not know everything that has been done in the past. We do not know yet how the Lord will have us fulfill our mission. We do know that we have been called to establish the church by finding, teaching, baptizing, and helping endure to the end. We will be getting additional information to you in the weeks to come. Until then, keep doing as you have been taught, obeying the Mission Handbooks, following Preach My Gospel. Continue to work with recent converts and less actives. Ask the ward leaders how you can help serve them and be a blessing to the members. This is the Lord's work and He will guide you and bless your efforts.
Sincerely,
President and Sister Bishop
July 12, 2010 - Letter about Pres. Uchdorf's visit to Taiwan
Hello My Beautiful Family,
This last Saturday was awesome, we didn't go to Taipei, that was for members. We went to the mission home in Tai Zhong. It was a super cool experience. At first President Uchtdorf arrived and took a picture with the whole mission outside the mission home. Then inside we sat down and we got to go up one by one to shake him and his wife's hand. He asked every missionary where we are from. When I said Reno he replied, “Wow we just love Lake Tahoe!” His wife’s talk was really awesome. She talked about her conversion and companionship problems which helped me a lot. President Perkins also came with his wife but she and sister Bishop didn't speak. Pres. Uchtdorf talked about repentance and how when we sin but repent and forsake God forgives us and he remembers our sins no more. This I already knew but when he said, “in the name of the LORD this is true I felt the power and the spirit testify to me that God truly is a forgiving God”. He said Satan wants us to think god hasn’t forgiven us and that’s when he can grab our souls with his everlasting chains! Then he said what a marvelous promise that we need to teach our investigators that god will forget our sins when we repent. Then at the end he provoked his blessing on us which was so real and sacred at the time, I don’t know how to put it in words. If that wasn’t intense enough he bore his testimony of a special witness of Christ and said in the name of the Lord again I testify that God lives. This is word for word, he lives and this is his true church. Then he ended, one last thing, I forgot to mention in the beginning of his talk, he said that we have a 24 hour prayer service for us missionary’s. Out of 133 temples in the world people are praying for us every minute of the day for 2 hours. I thought that was cool.
Sorry for this heartbreaker, I heard from many missionaries that we will extend my departure date for December 23rd. Two days shy of serving 3 Christmas's. Not for sure yet if it is just a rumor. So if that’s a true sorry I won’t be home for Thanksgiving! I want to serve and continue finding, teaching and baptizing!
P.S. tell max I’m sorry I haven’t written, I will write him next week.
Tanner by the way...you and Sandra look great! Thanks for your companion advice. Your right I can overcome this trial. I got that at the mission conference.
Elder Lloyd brought me 5 letters because they don’t know I moved yet. I told Sister Greene and she will send my mail to the right spot now. That’s why I didn’t write Max back. Didn't know I had letters. I got 2 from him 2 from you and my perfectly sized CTR ring!!!! It fits perfect, thank you.
I love you all, congrats Alyea for making bank. Brinae and the boys write me back. Ok I love my siblings!!!
This last Saturday was awesome, we didn't go to Taipei, that was for members. We went to the mission home in Tai Zhong. It was a super cool experience. At first President Uchtdorf arrived and took a picture with the whole mission outside the mission home. Then inside we sat down and we got to go up one by one to shake him and his wife's hand. He asked every missionary where we are from. When I said Reno he replied, “Wow we just love Lake Tahoe!” His wife’s talk was really awesome. She talked about her conversion and companionship problems which helped me a lot. President Perkins also came with his wife but she and sister Bishop didn't speak. Pres. Uchtdorf talked about repentance and how when we sin but repent and forsake God forgives us and he remembers our sins no more. This I already knew but when he said, “in the name of the LORD this is true I felt the power and the spirit testify to me that God truly is a forgiving God”. He said Satan wants us to think god hasn’t forgiven us and that’s when he can grab our souls with his everlasting chains! Then he said what a marvelous promise that we need to teach our investigators that god will forget our sins when we repent. Then at the end he provoked his blessing on us which was so real and sacred at the time, I don’t know how to put it in words. If that wasn’t intense enough he bore his testimony of a special witness of Christ and said in the name of the Lord again I testify that God lives. This is word for word, he lives and this is his true church. Then he ended, one last thing, I forgot to mention in the beginning of his talk, he said that we have a 24 hour prayer service for us missionary’s. Out of 133 temples in the world people are praying for us every minute of the day for 2 hours. I thought that was cool.
Sorry for this heartbreaker, I heard from many missionaries that we will extend my departure date for December 23rd. Two days shy of serving 3 Christmas's. Not for sure yet if it is just a rumor. So if that’s a true sorry I won’t be home for Thanksgiving! I want to serve and continue finding, teaching and baptizing!
P.S. tell max I’m sorry I haven’t written, I will write him next week.
Tanner by the way...you and Sandra look great! Thanks for your companion advice. Your right I can overcome this trial. I got that at the mission conference.
Elder Lloyd brought me 5 letters because they don’t know I moved yet. I told Sister Greene and she will send my mail to the right spot now. That’s why I didn’t write Max back. Didn't know I had letters. I got 2 from him 2 from you and my perfectly sized CTR ring!!!! It fits perfect, thank you.
I love you all, congrats Alyea for making bank. Brinae and the boys write me back. Ok I love my siblings!!!
July 11, 2010 - President Bishop's Letter
Dear Elders and Sisters,
What an amazing 2 weeks we have had in Taiwan! We love the country, we love the members, and we especially love you. We have been grateful for the warm welcome we have received from each of you as we toured the mission and met and interviewed you. We are also grateful for the wonderful mission conference. President Uchtdorf was very pleased and impressed with your reverence and participation during our Mission Conference.
President Perkins mentioned in the Mission Conference that we have been instructed to implement a new training schedule. That schedule will be according to months, not transfer cycles. The transfer cycles will remain every 6 weeks. However, other missionary meetings will be based on months. We will have Zone Conferences every 3 months, leadership training (Assistants, Zone Leaders, District Leaders and Trainers) every 2 months, specialized training (Zone Leaders and District Leaders) every month. We will have Zone Leader Council every month. We have been instructed to train on 8 specific lessons from Preach My Gospel when we begin this training schedule. As we begin training we will address these topics:
* Doctrine of Christ
* Role of Holy Ghost in conversion
* Revelation through prayer
* Revelation through the Book of Mormon
* Revelation through church attendance
* Teach people, not lessons
* We invite, they commit, we follow up
* How to begin teaching
The dates are not set for these training cycles but we will let you know when we know. Sister Bishop and I are still learning our way around. We do not know everything that has been done in the past. We do not know yet how the Lord will have us fulfill our mission. We do know that we have been called to establish the church by finding, teaching, baptizing, and helping endure to the end. We will be getting additional information to you in the weeks to come. Until then, keep doing as you have been taught, obeying the Mission Handbooks, following Preach My Gospel. Continue to work with recent converts and less actives. Ask the ward leaders how you can help serve them and be a blessing to the members. This is the Lord's work and He will guide you and bless your efforts.
Sincerely,
President and Sister Bishop
What an amazing 2 weeks we have had in Taiwan! We love the country, we love the members, and we especially love you. We have been grateful for the warm welcome we have received from each of you as we toured the mission and met and interviewed you. We are also grateful for the wonderful mission conference. President Uchtdorf was very pleased and impressed with your reverence and participation during our Mission Conference.
President Perkins mentioned in the Mission Conference that we have been instructed to implement a new training schedule. That schedule will be according to months, not transfer cycles. The transfer cycles will remain every 6 weeks. However, other missionary meetings will be based on months. We will have Zone Conferences every 3 months, leadership training (Assistants, Zone Leaders, District Leaders and Trainers) every 2 months, specialized training (Zone Leaders and District Leaders) every month. We will have Zone Leader Council every month. We have been instructed to train on 8 specific lessons from Preach My Gospel when we begin this training schedule. As we begin training we will address these topics:
* Doctrine of Christ
* Role of Holy Ghost in conversion
* Revelation through prayer
* Revelation through the Book of Mormon
* Revelation through church attendance
* Teach people, not lessons
* We invite, they commit, we follow up
* How to begin teaching
The dates are not set for these training cycles but we will let you know when we know. Sister Bishop and I are still learning our way around. We do not know everything that has been done in the past. We do not know yet how the Lord will have us fulfill our mission. We do know that we have been called to establish the church by finding, teaching, baptizing, and helping endure to the end. We will be getting additional information to you in the weeks to come. Until then, keep doing as you have been taught, obeying the Mission Handbooks, following Preach My Gospel. Continue to work with recent converts and less actives. Ask the ward leaders how you can help serve them and be a blessing to the members. This is the Lord's work and He will guide you and bless your efforts.
Sincerely,
President and Sister Bishop
June 30, 2010 - Welcome New Mission President
Clark Thorpe Bishop, 57, and Nora Linn Holdaway Bishop, five children, Taiwan Taichung Mission; Sunset Heights 7th Ward, Orem Utah Sunset Heights Stake. Brother Bishop is a former counselor in a Provo Missionary Training Center branch, high councilor, bishop, gospel doctrine teacher and missionary in the Taiwan Mission. Pulmonary/critical care physician, Intermountain Healthcare. Born in Provo, Utah, to Francis Walker and Cleo Thorpe Bishop.
Sister Bishop is a former stake Relief Society president and counselor, gospel doctrine teacher, ward Relief Society teacher and Church service missionary. Born in Provo, Utah, to Reed Amos and Margaret Taylor Holdaway.
About 24 missionaries from the Taichung Zone, await the arrival of President and Sister Bishop, the new Taiwan, Taichung Mission President. President Bishop and his wife Nora were escorted to Taichung from Taipei early Wednesday morning June 30, 2010 by Michael and Laurie Hoer, the departing mission president.
June 28, 2010 - Transfer
Hello My Beautiful Family!
I MOVED!!!!! I am in my new area Xin ying! President Hoer called me last night at dinner to congratulate me on going to train! I am already with my new companion. I packed at 9 o’clock until 1:00 am then woke up at 4:30 to catch a train at 6:52 so I’m pretty tired right now. I will send lots of pics in a bit. President Hoer said he wants to assign me to a tough assignment just like my blessing said!!! He said this is my going away present for you Elder Christensen; everyone was shocked I was moving.
My companions name is Lin jia hao he is from miao li district zhu nan city he is close to tai zhong. So my 3rd Taiwanese companion, can you believe that?! He is on his 2nd move but right now we are in the middle just 3 weeks left but my guess is I will stay with him. So he is a super young missionary but older than me, 23 years old. He got baptized 8 years ago at the age of 16. He is super humble and can tell he will be very diligent which will be of great help!
Pres. Hoer designed a shirt that I just ordered. We will get it at mission conference. He presented the shirt at zone conference. It is sweet looking! On the front it has you ban fa and President Hoer's chop! Then on the back W.O.D. Worthy, Obedient , Dilligent. President Hoers saying. Ya thats about it. I am so excited to help this area and find, teach and baptize. Because that is the purpose of a tai zhong missionary! YOU BAN FA!!!
"Our church is so big"
My new companion Lin jia hao
Goodbye President and Sister Hoer
Dear Elders and Sisters,
As Sister Hoer and I prepare to complete our mission, we wanted to write you one last time and thank you for your service. Each one of you will carry on the legacy of being a Worthy, Obedient, Diligent Taichung missionary! We appreciate all you have done for the people of Taiwan and for your unfailing 有辦法 attitudes! We love you and will continue to pray for you. Continue to do amazing things on your mission!
Much love,
President and Sister Hoer
PS. Please note that today (June 28) you should write your president's letter to President Bishop, who will arrive in the mission tomorrow and will certainly be anxiously awaiting to hear from each of you. Also, please remember that President Bishop's new phone number will be 0928-055-620 and Sister Bishop's phone number will be 0928-055-630
This picture is comprised of 1000 baptismal pictures that were submitted to the mission office from all of the Taichung Missionaries to create this amazing portrait of Christ.
President Uchtdorf
Elders and Sisters,
Any investigators that want to attend President Uchtdorf’s speech in Taibei must have a ticket. (Members must also have tickets). Contact Elder Porter and he will send the tickets to you for your investigators. Tickets are free, but they are required for admission.
Members, investigators and anyone who is not a missionary currently serving in the Taiwan Taichung Mission are not allowed to attend the Mission Conference on Saturday July 10, 2010.
Remember that the Mission Conference is 10:00am-12:00pm. Be extremely reverent and a perfect example of a Worthy, Obedient, Diligent, Taizhong missionary. You are the best!
有辦法!
The Assistants
Any investigators that want to attend President Uchtdorf’s speech in Taibei must have a ticket. (Members must also have tickets). Contact Elder Porter and he will send the tickets to you for your investigators. Tickets are free, but they are required for admission.
Members, investigators and anyone who is not a missionary currently serving in the Taiwan Taichung Mission are not allowed to attend the Mission Conference on Saturday July 10, 2010.
Remember that the Mission Conference is 10:00am-12:00pm. Be extremely reverent and a perfect example of a Worthy, Obedient, Diligent, Taizhong missionary. You are the best!
有辦法!
The Assistants
May 24, 2010 - Families Can Be Together Forever
Hello My Beautiful Family!
Wow time flies, my little cousin is married! Congrats Talia and hey David, welcome to the FAMILY! You guys all look really good in Green. Send me lots of pictures.
So this week was way hard until, last night came the blessings. We went over to the Zheng family’s house to eat dinner. They are awesome members, the Dad has been baptized for 5 years but the wife just got baptized last December. I told them for my spiritual share that when I come back to Taiwan I would love to go to the Temple with them to see their family sealed. They said probably Dec. 26th they will go. So I am looking forward to that. I invited them to start going to the temple once a month. The wife hasn’t been yet for baptisms for the dead. We committed them to go next month! Then I noticed in their house no picture of the temple. I invited them to go up to Taipei next month and buy a picture and hang it on their wall so they can always have a desire to go back. I feel really strong about that. For my family anyways there will be church pictures everywhere. That’s what a true Latter Day Saints house should look like. If we don’t have a picture of the temple let us all make sure to get one! I know it will make a big difference.
After dinner we casually asked for referrals like we always do. They were hesitant at first and said none of their friends would accept the gospel they are all Buddhist. I said so let’s go tract into your neighbors. We went outside and the first door next to them rejected us fast, but then a miracle. The next door they actually knew these neighbors really well and we asked if we could come in. The mom said yes and we started to get acquainted, then the dad came in and sat down. At that point last night I was thinking is this the family for me to baptize? The zheng family left after like 5 minutes because the Bishop came to visit them so we got to stay and teach them a first lesson. They have a little son and a 7 year old girl. We did the Prophet parable with her and she he liked it. I will explain that another day. So I said the opening prayer and afterwards the Dad was smiling like the Cheshire cat! After we shared Joseph smith I asked them do you believe, they said yes I believe he saw God because of the peace I just felt. Now let me tell you on my mission I have never heard that kind of response after the first vision!!! Usually it’s like uh I don’t know! But now both the Mom and the Dad said they believe. After the lesson the Dad said the closing prayer and again was smiling and full of joy. I clarified expectations I told him with God’s help we will help you stop smoking!!! He said you can? Man I am so excited to go back tomorrow night! They both were excited for the next visit and to give them their own copy of the Book of Mormon. I don't want to say they are golden yet, but I prayed so long last night to have them be my first family I have found, taught and baptized on my mission! Actually just teach and baptize, the members found them! I have a strong testimony of asking for referrals from everyone now!
After that we went home so happy even though it was pouring rain down on us really hard. I was so happy I contacted a car the guy said to me what do want? Haha I said I have a happy message to share with you. He said you are crazy! It’s too dangerous right now! And drove away! I don't care any weather is perfect weather for a missionary! So ya it gets better to top off the night as we were walking into our apt. I heard a Mom and Dad fighting really bad. They were screaming at each other in Taiwanese, I didn’t understand a lot because they kept changing to Chinese and back to Taiwanese but I do know it was about money! The fight started getting louder. My companion wanted to start planning. But I said no hold on I need to pray. I prayed to be able to speak with the Mom about this gospel. Immediately after my prayer I ran outside and rang their doorbell. A kid 14 yrs of age answered the door and said go away my parents are fighting as he was fighting back tears. I said no let me talk to your mom. The mom screamed no missionary go away!!! Go away!! No thank you!!! Now missionaries have lived in my apt. for over 20 years she runs into us all the time, she’s been there for 30 yrs. We invited her 2 days ago to meet with us, she politely refused. But last night my prayer changed everything! She ran out of the apt to the door and she was sobbing. I think her husband hit her a couple of times, I heard some skin 3 or 4 times. Her face was red and she had tears all over her face! When I saw this mom I started to cry and saw the love that our savior has for her! She tried to push away from the door but I said in a quiet voice. Quote" Mama my parents have been married for 23 years and I know that the gospel of Jesus Christ can save your marriage. She said no! Leave! I again testified by saying I testify that as you meet with us your family life will change and you can become an eternal family like mine. I pulled out my picture of my family that I always carry in my front pocket and showed her. She started crying and sobbing on my shoulder! I said what’s your number? She said don't worry we are neighbors. Sorry for bothering your resting time. I said No you are not going to reject this gospel anymore, this can give your family more happiness and harmony than you will ever know!! I said boldly when can we meet tomorrow? She said 6! I said ok I will bring a friend for you to meet. Is your husband going to be home? She said no, he is leaving the country tomorrow. I said ok we will see you and your son tomorrow, have a good night. And that was it. I never felt the spirit that strong in my life. God touched her heart the time I was testifying to her soul that families are forever! What a huge miracle. After that I was shaken up and prayed to thank God for that miracle and wanted to know what member family can help this Mom in distress! At first I thought of the Bishop and started to call him but saw an awesome Gao family that is so good to us missionaries. I hung up before the Bishop answered and called the Gao family and told him what happened and he said he was willing to come over tonight at 6 with his wife! What a huge blessing, he even will sacrifice FHE with his family tonight to help us with this broken Mom. I am grateful I was brought up in a loving home where the spirit abided frequently. If I didn't have the gospel in my family who knows where we would be today! I know this church is the only true and living church on the face of this earth, and that families are ordained of God of this I testify today in the name of Jesus Christ AMEN!
Wow time flies, my little cousin is married! Congrats Talia and hey David, welcome to the FAMILY! You guys all look really good in Green. Send me lots of pictures.
So this week was way hard until, last night came the blessings. We went over to the Zheng family’s house to eat dinner. They are awesome members, the Dad has been baptized for 5 years but the wife just got baptized last December. I told them for my spiritual share that when I come back to Taiwan I would love to go to the Temple with them to see their family sealed. They said probably Dec. 26th they will go. So I am looking forward to that. I invited them to start going to the temple once a month. The wife hasn’t been yet for baptisms for the dead. We committed them to go next month! Then I noticed in their house no picture of the temple. I invited them to go up to Taipei next month and buy a picture and hang it on their wall so they can always have a desire to go back. I feel really strong about that. For my family anyways there will be church pictures everywhere. That’s what a true Latter Day Saints house should look like. If we don’t have a picture of the temple let us all make sure to get one! I know it will make a big difference.
After dinner we casually asked for referrals like we always do. They were hesitant at first and said none of their friends would accept the gospel they are all Buddhist. I said so let’s go tract into your neighbors. We went outside and the first door next to them rejected us fast, but then a miracle. The next door they actually knew these neighbors really well and we asked if we could come in. The mom said yes and we started to get acquainted, then the dad came in and sat down. At that point last night I was thinking is this the family for me to baptize? The zheng family left after like 5 minutes because the Bishop came to visit them so we got to stay and teach them a first lesson. They have a little son and a 7 year old girl. We did the Prophet parable with her and she he liked it. I will explain that another day. So I said the opening prayer and afterwards the Dad was smiling like the Cheshire cat! After we shared Joseph smith I asked them do you believe, they said yes I believe he saw God because of the peace I just felt. Now let me tell you on my mission I have never heard that kind of response after the first vision!!! Usually it’s like uh I don’t know! But now both the Mom and the Dad said they believe. After the lesson the Dad said the closing prayer and again was smiling and full of joy. I clarified expectations I told him with God’s help we will help you stop smoking!!! He said you can? Man I am so excited to go back tomorrow night! They both were excited for the next visit and to give them their own copy of the Book of Mormon. I don't want to say they are golden yet, but I prayed so long last night to have them be my first family I have found, taught and baptized on my mission! Actually just teach and baptize, the members found them! I have a strong testimony of asking for referrals from everyone now!
After that we went home so happy even though it was pouring rain down on us really hard. I was so happy I contacted a car the guy said to me what do want? Haha I said I have a happy message to share with you. He said you are crazy! It’s too dangerous right now! And drove away! I don't care any weather is perfect weather for a missionary! So ya it gets better to top off the night as we were walking into our apt. I heard a Mom and Dad fighting really bad. They were screaming at each other in Taiwanese, I didn’t understand a lot because they kept changing to Chinese and back to Taiwanese but I do know it was about money! The fight started getting louder. My companion wanted to start planning. But I said no hold on I need to pray. I prayed to be able to speak with the Mom about this gospel. Immediately after my prayer I ran outside and rang their doorbell. A kid 14 yrs of age answered the door and said go away my parents are fighting as he was fighting back tears. I said no let me talk to your mom. The mom screamed no missionary go away!!! Go away!! No thank you!!! Now missionaries have lived in my apt. for over 20 years she runs into us all the time, she’s been there for 30 yrs. We invited her 2 days ago to meet with us, she politely refused. But last night my prayer changed everything! She ran out of the apt to the door and she was sobbing. I think her husband hit her a couple of times, I heard some skin 3 or 4 times. Her face was red and she had tears all over her face! When I saw this mom I started to cry and saw the love that our savior has for her! She tried to push away from the door but I said in a quiet voice. Quote" Mama my parents have been married for 23 years and I know that the gospel of Jesus Christ can save your marriage. She said no! Leave! I again testified by saying I testify that as you meet with us your family life will change and you can become an eternal family like mine. I pulled out my picture of my family that I always carry in my front pocket and showed her. She started crying and sobbing on my shoulder! I said what’s your number? She said don't worry we are neighbors. Sorry for bothering your resting time. I said No you are not going to reject this gospel anymore, this can give your family more happiness and harmony than you will ever know!! I said boldly when can we meet tomorrow? She said 6! I said ok I will bring a friend for you to meet. Is your husband going to be home? She said no, he is leaving the country tomorrow. I said ok we will see you and your son tomorrow, have a good night. And that was it. I never felt the spirit that strong in my life. God touched her heart the time I was testifying to her soul that families are forever! What a huge miracle. After that I was shaken up and prayed to thank God for that miracle and wanted to know what member family can help this Mom in distress! At first I thought of the Bishop and started to call him but saw an awesome Gao family that is so good to us missionaries. I hung up before the Bishop answered and called the Gao family and told him what happened and he said he was willing to come over tonight at 6 with his wife! What a huge blessing, he even will sacrifice FHE with his family tonight to help us with this broken Mom. I am grateful I was brought up in a loving home where the spirit abided frequently. If I didn't have the gospel in my family who knows where we would be today! I know this church is the only true and living church on the face of this earth, and that families are ordained of God of this I testify today in the name of Jesus Christ AMEN!
May 23, 2010 - Baptism
This is the Sister's new little convert, Vic. He is 12 and he loves the gospel. Vic asked me too baptize him last Sunday. He got baptised last Saturday and received the Holy Ghost yesterday in Sacrament Meeting! If everybody could be like this humble kid!
May 17, 2010 - Letter - Apartment and Basketball
Hello My Beautiful Family,
Wow this week went super fast! That’s the best news I have heard in a while. Tell Nick I am proud of him but help him stay 3 hours.
Yesterday at church we had 5 investigators come, one stayed for 3 hours and sat next to me the whole time. I am super happy for him, he is progressing but he is scared to get baptized we will see what happens.
Thanks for the package. I will look forward to having deodorant, lol. Wow, ya I will be 22 soon. Sweet! Ya it doesn’t cost money to convert to Taiwanese.
WOW that’s so cool you went to the temple with everybody. Ya before I get on the plane I will be able to go through a session at Taipei hopefully I move up to Tai Zhong soon.
Who’s Bishop Lee? Tell Bishop Homer I said hi. The first thing I want to do after I get released is go to a session in the Reno Temple! Some missionaries go to movies right after. Me it will be different.
So for my b-day a CTR ring would be nice lol...some new EFY cd's would be nice and the newest MOTAB. Other than that you can just put some money into my card. A member is going to make me a scroll, kind of like the dragon one I sent home... I want to put Nephi 3:7 on it in Chinese, its way cheap because he will give me a discount, and I want to get a dragon chop. A chop is a stamp that the Chinese people take with them everywhere when they need to sign their signature. It’s 800 Taiwan. That’s all. And tell Max his present for me is the Lakers 2010 championship shirt!! haha if they lose send me a Western Conference finals shirt! If he can. Oh at the end of this move I am slow boating my heavy books home. It will take 3 months.
I love you, I will send you pics of my apt. now!
Love, Elder Christensen
Wow this week went super fast! That’s the best news I have heard in a while. Tell Nick I am proud of him but help him stay 3 hours.
Yesterday at church we had 5 investigators come, one stayed for 3 hours and sat next to me the whole time. I am super happy for him, he is progressing but he is scared to get baptized we will see what happens.
Thanks for the package. I will look forward to having deodorant, lol. Wow, ya I will be 22 soon. Sweet! Ya it doesn’t cost money to convert to Taiwanese.
WOW that’s so cool you went to the temple with everybody. Ya before I get on the plane I will be able to go through a session at Taipei hopefully I move up to Tai Zhong soon.
Who’s Bishop Lee? Tell Bishop Homer I said hi. The first thing I want to do after I get released is go to a session in the Reno Temple! Some missionaries go to movies right after. Me it will be different.
So for my b-day a CTR ring would be nice lol...some new EFY cd's would be nice and the newest MOTAB. Other than that you can just put some money into my card. A member is going to make me a scroll, kind of like the dragon one I sent home... I want to put Nephi 3:7 on it in Chinese, its way cheap because he will give me a discount, and I want to get a dragon chop. A chop is a stamp that the Chinese people take with them everywhere when they need to sign their signature. It’s 800 Taiwan. That’s all. And tell Max his present for me is the Lakers 2010 championship shirt!! haha if they lose send me a Western Conference finals shirt! If he can. Oh at the end of this move I am slow boating my heavy books home. It will take 3 months.
I love you, I will send you pics of my apt. now!
Love, Elder Christensen
"My companion thinks he is Michael Jordan!!"
"Playing ball nowdays wears me out"
"She could win a little girls beauty contest"
"That yellow owl you see by the Mom, Elder Williammee and I bought that for them, it says welcome, perfect for a restaurant"
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