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