Momos, Mountains, Beautiful Scenery, Beautiful People and Bucket Showers (Rebekah March 28)

Thanks mom for writing me! It's so good to hear from you. It's weird that there is only one month left in the semester. To me it feels like it just started. But that's probably because I'm not there studying. I haven't used my card yet but I probably will soon.


I'm enjoying my new area. The work is hard here in Los Riscos. The "active" members don't come to church unless we visit them. There are 450 members in the directory and we had an assistance of 60. Basic commandments aren't kept. There are so many problems here that it makes the Jackson ward seem ideal. I am not sure where to begin or what to do. I feel helpless facing the tallest cliff I have ever seen with nothing but a small thread to aide me in the climb. But my confidence is in the Lord and I humbly depend on His guidance. I may have to bid farewell to my wish of 25 more baptisms - but that is okay. I did not come on a mission for glory or fame ot to seek my own will, I am here solely to be an instrument in the hands of the Lord my God. I trust him. While I do not understand His plan here in Los Riscos - I know that my God will never abandon me nor His saints, while perhaps few and far between, here in Momos. He is closer now than before.

I remember in Michigan feeling so close to alone in a ward and world so different from what it could have and should have been - and what an answer to many of my prayers, and to the prayers of our family, were Elders Selfison, Hall, Guaze, Van, and others, They may never know what an impact their missionary service has had on our lives. In ward council yesterday the Bishop expressed that he was concerned that no one would come to the meeting. He said he thought, "and what if I have to do all of this alone? What if not one of the leaders come?" He said that sometimes he expresses his concerns to his wife and the feeling that sometimes he is alone in the work of the ward that needs some desperate revolution. He told us that he tells his wife that she must never cease to support him or he will be alone in an incredibly large task. The he looked and my companion and I in the meeting and said, "But you came and I know I am not alone in this work." The difference we will make in this ward may be hard to see - but I know a difference will be made. I am grateful to serve where the Lord would have me and trust humbly in Him. With Heavenly Father's help I am prepared to see miracles here in Los Riscos. I am so grateful for a Bishop who has the hardest calling in the world and the most pure heart and sincerest desire to serve God. I know that while are times we may so feel, we are never really alone in the work of the Lord. It is, after all, His work and He will take us by the hand and guide us in every word through the voice of His still, small voice.



Momos is so beautiful. We are surrounded by mountains and trees. The typical, indigenous clothing is colorful and cheerful. Quiche is a joy to learn. It sounds somewhat like an African Tribal language and I'm excited to learn a little bit. We shower with cold water and buckets which is a one in a lifetime adventure and the culture is so rich here. It is a blessing to work in this area and the Lord has great plans for us here. I am learning many new things that could only be learned here and will bless my entire life and the lives of those I serve in all future callings.



I love you all and pray that all is well at home! Hooray for General Conference! I'm excited to know that for those 8 hours, all the members everywhere, including my family, will be watching and listening to the Prophet's voice. What a treat!!!

Keep up all the good work Lisa with your teaching. You are going to do great things!

Thank you Dad for your wonderful example.

Have fun Amber planning your wedding, and don't think just because you're engaged it's an excuse to stop writing me. :)

Hooray Samuel and Michelle!!!!!! You two are so talented!

Love,

Rebekah