It's been another great week in Fayette!
It was slow for the most part, we weren't able to teach any of our investigators and we saw only a few people. But it was made up again on Sunday. There was a couple that is looking to move out here from Arizona with four kids. The branch is really excited even though if they do end up moving here it won't be for a few months. Everything just seems to keep getting better, the Lord is preparing the way for great and marvelous things.
We had a zone conference on Thursday. It was really nice to just show up and not have to worry about all the planning and logistics of getting it all organized. I don't remember if I mentioned or not, but Elder Nelson is in the zone too. It's his last transfer and so it was his last zone conference. He was able to give his "departing testimony." I'm glad that I was able to be there for it, we had a really good time serving together.
On another note, our dinners are picking up a little bit. It's nice, the less actives feed us here more than any other area. They make sure to take good care of us.
Mom-thanks for the update on Grandpa Nash, I'll make sure to write him a letter soon. President Monsons book is definitely on my to read list along with alot of others when I get home.
Dad-it's been wet here too. Yes, I've been thinking of the job situation myself. If anything starts popping up in a few months, let me know, but there will be plenty of time for other things too, hopefully.
Well, I just started the book of Ether in my readings. To see the destruction of the Nephites is always hard. After seeing what they saw and hearing what they heard, the following generations still hardened their hearts. It just goes to prove that even seeing miracles won't soften hearts.
Have another great week,
Love,
Elder Egan
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Back to the Bike.....
Its been another great week in Fayette!
We had an interesting day at church yesterday. There was a couple visiting that used to live in the branch. As we got talking he found out where I was from and asked if I knew the Deans. It turns out that he is Bro. Deans cousin or something. His name was Bro. Ward (I think). So it was fun meeting people that I knew. Then we also had a young man move into the branch from Cal. He is going to be playing football for the Methodist university in Fayette. He is from Samoa and is full of energy and enthusiasm, it's just what the branch needs right now. He was talking about checking out the YSA branch over in Columbia, when we told him that we needed him here. We'll see what he will do. He said that he might attend our branch and just go to the activities in the singles branch.
We've been working with less actives alot this past week, so we really haven't been able to find any new investigators. We had some really good lessons with our other progressing investigators though, however none of them came to church which was kinda a bumber.
There is this brother in the branch, Bro. Freeman, who is a WW2 vet. who now owns a bike repair shop. Well, earlier this week we went to see if we could buy a bike for E. McKinney and to get a new tube for me. Well not only did he get E. McKinney a bike he fixed mine for nothing. Then on top of that, he called us up Friday night and asked if we'd like it if he brought us by some dinner! It was awesome. It was our second real meal since we've been here. The Lord has blessed us this week, much more than we deserve.
Since we both now have working bikes, we've been using them a lot more. It's been a while, but I've still got it down. I'm a little sore, but getting over it. E. McKinney on the other hand has been having some adjusting to get use to biking all over the place. It made me remember back when E. Reese pushed me really hard, and I decided to take it a little bit easier on E. McKinney. The weather hasn't been cooperating with us though, so we haven't been out in a few days (biking that is).
Mom-It just started snowing this morning. We are hearing that its supposed to hit us pretty hard though. We'll see. Yeah, I got your letter last week. If you could just put the check in the bank for me that'd be great.
Dad- If I remember I'll try and take more pics, but knowing me, probably not.
Anyway, have another good week.
Love,
Elder Egan
We had an interesting day at church yesterday. There was a couple visiting that used to live in the branch. As we got talking he found out where I was from and asked if I knew the Deans. It turns out that he is Bro. Deans cousin or something. His name was Bro. Ward (I think). So it was fun meeting people that I knew. Then we also had a young man move into the branch from Cal. He is going to be playing football for the Methodist university in Fayette. He is from Samoa and is full of energy and enthusiasm, it's just what the branch needs right now. He was talking about checking out the YSA branch over in Columbia, when we told him that we needed him here. We'll see what he will do. He said that he might attend our branch and just go to the activities in the singles branch.
We've been working with less actives alot this past week, so we really haven't been able to find any new investigators. We had some really good lessons with our other progressing investigators though, however none of them came to church which was kinda a bumber.
There is this brother in the branch, Bro. Freeman, who is a WW2 vet. who now owns a bike repair shop. Well, earlier this week we went to see if we could buy a bike for E. McKinney and to get a new tube for me. Well not only did he get E. McKinney a bike he fixed mine for nothing. Then on top of that, he called us up Friday night and asked if we'd like it if he brought us by some dinner! It was awesome. It was our second real meal since we've been here. The Lord has blessed us this week, much more than we deserve.
Since we both now have working bikes, we've been using them a lot more. It's been a while, but I've still got it down. I'm a little sore, but getting over it. E. McKinney on the other hand has been having some adjusting to get use to biking all over the place. It made me remember back when E. Reese pushed me really hard, and I decided to take it a little bit easier on E. McKinney. The weather hasn't been cooperating with us though, so we haven't been out in a few days (biking that is).
Mom-It just started snowing this morning. We are hearing that its supposed to hit us pretty hard though. We'll see. Yeah, I got your letter last week. If you could just put the check in the bank for me that'd be great.
Dad- If I remember I'll try and take more pics, but knowing me, probably not.
Anyway, have another good week.
Love,
Elder Egan
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Lots of Work to Do
Its been a great week in Fayette!
The people out here are great! There are about 25 or so people that normally come out every week. We had an investigator family of four there as well which was awesome. We only meet for two hours, sacrament and Priesthood and RS. For Priesthood we split into Aaronic and Melchedzek groups for lessons. I think we had 6 or 7 in our class total. We actually don't live in Fayette and there aren't very many members that do. So as we were talking with our branch mission leader, he was telling us how great that'd be if we found a good solid "all american" family there. Well we've been praying for it everyday and on Sunday we fasted for it along with our branch mission leader. We went tracting after church and not only did we find TWO potential families we also found a less active whose name we didn't even have on our records and she said that she wanted to come back!! We have an appointment with one of the new families tomorrow and we will probably stop by the other one next Sunday to see how her Book of Mormon reading went. We are both really excited for the work here and the Lord is pouring out His blessings on us each day.
My companion is Elder McKinney from Phoenix. He's already a really good missionary. I only have to show him a few things, but he has the lessons down really well and one of the best parts is, is that he's not shy! He's not scared to talk or open his mouth and speak up. We're having lots of fun together and hopefully we'll be together for a while.
Mom- We have a car, but we only have a hand full of miles and all the little towns are fairly spread out so we are planning on doing some biking a couple of days a week.
Dad-Yeah I know Elder Murdock really well. He has been in my zone a couple of times and he actually just took my place in Oakville. He's from the TriCities, so we talk about Washington all the time. He is a really good missionary and leader. No the storms/tornadoes must be elsewhere. I didnt even know about them. The weather has been rainy in the mornings but the sun comes out in the afternoon and its been bitter cold. When we went tracting on Sunday we forgot our gloves back at the house and the hand I use to carry my scriptures in froze!
Anyway, we got lots to do here and hopefully I'll finish out my mission here.
Love you,
Elder Egan
The people out here are great! There are about 25 or so people that normally come out every week. We had an investigator family of four there as well which was awesome. We only meet for two hours, sacrament and Priesthood and RS. For Priesthood we split into Aaronic and Melchedzek groups for lessons. I think we had 6 or 7 in our class total. We actually don't live in Fayette and there aren't very many members that do. So as we were talking with our branch mission leader, he was telling us how great that'd be if we found a good solid "all american" family there. Well we've been praying for it everyday and on Sunday we fasted for it along with our branch mission leader. We went tracting after church and not only did we find TWO potential families we also found a less active whose name we didn't even have on our records and she said that she wanted to come back!! We have an appointment with one of the new families tomorrow and we will probably stop by the other one next Sunday to see how her Book of Mormon reading went. We are both really excited for the work here and the Lord is pouring out His blessings on us each day.
My companion is Elder McKinney from Phoenix. He's already a really good missionary. I only have to show him a few things, but he has the lessons down really well and one of the best parts is, is that he's not shy! He's not scared to talk or open his mouth and speak up. We're having lots of fun together and hopefully we'll be together for a while.
Mom- We have a car, but we only have a hand full of miles and all the little towns are fairly spread out so we are planning on doing some biking a couple of days a week.
Dad-Yeah I know Elder Murdock really well. He has been in my zone a couple of times and he actually just took my place in Oakville. He's from the TriCities, so we talk about Washington all the time. He is a really good missionary and leader. No the storms/tornadoes must be elsewhere. I didnt even know about them. The weather has been rainy in the mornings but the sun comes out in the afternoon and its been bitter cold. When we went tracting on Sunday we forgot our gloves back at the house and the hand I use to carry my scriptures in froze!
Anyway, we got lots to do here and hopefully I'll finish out my mission here.
Love you,
Elder Egan
Monday, December 27, 2010
Confirmation
It's been another great week in Oakville!
Well, as you could probably guess, I'm being transfered. I'm going to be training a new missionary in Fayette, MO. It's in the Columbia stake. It's a branch, so it'll be full of all kinds of new adventures. I talked with one of the Assistants today and he said that the Elders were doing really well out there and have lots going on. I'm nervous but feel confident that it is where I need to be. It's kinda hard leaving though. Lots of amazing people in this ward that have helped us out a lot.
The confirmation went really well. I was having a hard time speaking for any length of time in the morning because my throat was really sore, but when I got up to do the confirmation it didn't bother me.
I'm trying to fit everything into only two suitcases (like I'm supposed too) so to do that I'm sending a bunch of stuff home. I think I'll have three box's for this round, so if you could keep your eyes out for them, that'd be great.
Mom-Yeah the Branhams are great. They were going to take us all out to eat on Wed. but then when they found out that was when transfers were they moved it to tomorrow, so they could make it with Elder Hendricks and me. Thats good to hear that Tom did so well. That would be a very different mission then St. Louis for sure. I looked at a list that has the names of missionaries coming out soon and saw Elder Marshall, the one you told me to look out for. Who is he again? Maybe I'll train him in a transfer or two, probably not though.
Dad-I know what you mean with all the treats. In our kitchen we have this big box that we put all of our goodies in. Then we told the Bankheads that every time they come downstairs that they can't go back up until eating something out of the box.
I'll get you my new address whenever I find it out myself.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Well, as you could probably guess, I'm being transfered. I'm going to be training a new missionary in Fayette, MO. It's in the Columbia stake. It's a branch, so it'll be full of all kinds of new adventures. I talked with one of the Assistants today and he said that the Elders were doing really well out there and have lots going on. I'm nervous but feel confident that it is where I need to be. It's kinda hard leaving though. Lots of amazing people in this ward that have helped us out a lot.
The confirmation went really well. I was having a hard time speaking for any length of time in the morning because my throat was really sore, but when I got up to do the confirmation it didn't bother me.
I'm trying to fit everything into only two suitcases (like I'm supposed too) so to do that I'm sending a bunch of stuff home. I think I'll have three box's for this round, so if you could keep your eyes out for them, that'd be great.
Mom-Yeah the Branhams are great. They were going to take us all out to eat on Wed. but then when they found out that was when transfers were they moved it to tomorrow, so they could make it with Elder Hendricks and me. Thats good to hear that Tom did so well. That would be a very different mission then St. Louis for sure. I looked at a list that has the names of missionaries coming out soon and saw Elder Marshall, the one you told me to look out for. Who is he again? Maybe I'll train him in a transfer or two, probably not though.
Dad-I know what you mean with all the treats. In our kitchen we have this big box that we put all of our goodies in. Then we told the Bankheads that every time they come downstairs that they can't go back up until eating something out of the box.
I'll get you my new address whenever I find it out myself.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Baptism
Its been another amazing week in Oakville!!!
Margaret got BAPTIZED!!!!!!! It was a really great service and everything. We did it right after church so that more people would be there. It was funny, when she was in the water, Elder Westfall asked if she was ready, and in a way that is very much like Margaret she said "No," but we went a head and did it. She is taking us out to dinner this week and so she called this morning to figure out some details and she sounded great over the phone and was so glad that she finally did it. Then next week I'll confirm her and give her the gift of the Holy Ghost. I haven't done that yet so it'll be a good experience for all of us. We also went over to Pres. and Sis. Bankheads last night. We still had some of their things so we were just going to make a quick stop before heading home. Well, an hour and a half later we finally left. We talked a lot and had a lot of fun. It was great living with them, but we're having just as good of time over at our new place (well...its not really new for me...).
Mom-Yeah, we use the front door all the time. It's how we get in and out so we'll get it if its there. That's too bad to hear about Sis. Glem. She was a great, but I guess her talents are needed else where. The storms have finally passed here. We have been back up above freezing for a couple of days now. It feels great!
Dad-We'll probably be calling between breakfast and lunch, not positive though. We woke up Sunday morning excited for the baptism and I looked out the window and there were a few snow flakes coming down, but unlike Josh, I was not excited. If it had snowed Margaret wouldn't have come out.
Wow, it seems like everyone is getting home, its crazy to think about it. I was wondering: does the Atonement cover the suffering of those that rebelled in the pre-mortal life? The scriptures say that He suffered for all, but doesn't say too much else about it.
Anyway, have a great week and I'll talk to you in a few days,
Love,
Elder Egan
Margaret got BAPTIZED!!!!!!! It was a really great service and everything. We did it right after church so that more people would be there. It was funny, when she was in the water, Elder Westfall asked if she was ready, and in a way that is very much like Margaret she said "No," but we went a head and did it. She is taking us out to dinner this week and so she called this morning to figure out some details and she sounded great over the phone and was so glad that she finally did it. Then next week I'll confirm her and give her the gift of the Holy Ghost. I haven't done that yet so it'll be a good experience for all of us. We also went over to Pres. and Sis. Bankheads last night. We still had some of their things so we were just going to make a quick stop before heading home. Well, an hour and a half later we finally left. We talked a lot and had a lot of fun. It was great living with them, but we're having just as good of time over at our new place (well...its not really new for me...).
Mom-Yeah, we use the front door all the time. It's how we get in and out so we'll get it if its there. That's too bad to hear about Sis. Glem. She was a great, but I guess her talents are needed else where. The storms have finally passed here. We have been back up above freezing for a couple of days now. It feels great!
Dad-We'll probably be calling between breakfast and lunch, not positive though. We woke up Sunday morning excited for the baptism and I looked out the window and there were a few snow flakes coming down, but unlike Josh, I was not excited. If it had snowed Margaret wouldn't have come out.
Wow, it seems like everyone is getting home, its crazy to think about it. I was wondering: does the Atonement cover the suffering of those that rebelled in the pre-mortal life? The scriptures say that He suffered for all, but doesn't say too much else about it.
Anyway, have a great week and I'll talk to you in a few days,
Love,
Elder Egan
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
We Set A Date!!!
Its been another great week in Oakville!
We were hit by a storm Sat night that dumped three inches of snow on us and it was really windy. The snow was really powdery and so the wind was blowing it everywhere. So we went to our early meetings Sunday and then finally during PEC the Bishop cancelled church. We went home for a little bit and let the weather pass before going out and working. We had a good rest of the day though. Other than that, we've had a fairly slow week. We had a meeting last Monday, exchanges Tues, a leadership training both Wed and Thurs, and then a Christmas Zone Conference Fri. We did do one thing that was really neat though....WE SET A DATE WITH MARGRET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! She's getting baptized next Sunday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So last Sunday she came up to us and told us that she wanted to talk about a date at our next lesson, so we go over and set it for the 19th and the interview a few days before that. Well, she calls us up and leaves a message and says that she's found a "road block" in the date! We got really scared that she was going to cancel it but when we called her back, she didn't answer. Then she finally calls us back and lets us know that her grandaughter is graduating up at Mizzuo on the day that we scheduled the interview, so all we needed to do was move that. We were so relieved. So that and zone conference were pretty much the highlights of our week this week.
Mom-If you remind me, I'll keep my eye out for Elder Marshall. Which mission will Patrick be in, in Brazil? We just had an RM come back from Brazil, Curichiba (sp???). He said that there is lots of walking.
Dad-I forgot to ask Pres. Clark that, sorry. Maybe next time. I'm trying to get through the Isaiah chapters in 2 Nephi now. Every once in a while I'm able to pick something out, but not often.
Anyway, have another good week.
Love,
Elder Egan
We were hit by a storm Sat night that dumped three inches of snow on us and it was really windy. The snow was really powdery and so the wind was blowing it everywhere. So we went to our early meetings Sunday and then finally during PEC the Bishop cancelled church. We went home for a little bit and let the weather pass before going out and working. We had a good rest of the day though. Other than that, we've had a fairly slow week. We had a meeting last Monday, exchanges Tues, a leadership training both Wed and Thurs, and then a Christmas Zone Conference Fri. We did do one thing that was really neat though....WE SET A DATE WITH MARGRET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! She's getting baptized next Sunday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So last Sunday she came up to us and told us that she wanted to talk about a date at our next lesson, so we go over and set it for the 19th and the interview a few days before that. Well, she calls us up and leaves a message and says that she's found a "road block" in the date! We got really scared that she was going to cancel it but when we called her back, she didn't answer. Then she finally calls us back and lets us know that her grandaughter is graduating up at Mizzuo on the day that we scheduled the interview, so all we needed to do was move that. We were so relieved. So that and zone conference were pretty much the highlights of our week this week.
Mom-If you remind me, I'll keep my eye out for Elder Marshall. Which mission will Patrick be in, in Brazil? We just had an RM come back from Brazil, Curichiba (sp???). He said that there is lots of walking.
Dad-I forgot to ask Pres. Clark that, sorry. Maybe next time. I'm trying to get through the Isaiah chapters in 2 Nephi now. Every once in a while I'm able to pick something out, but not often.
Anyway, have another good week.
Love,
Elder Egan
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Moving Day for the Elders
Some more pictures from the past 6 months....
Elders Egan and Westfall with Bro. Perry
A popular "gnome" around the mission home:)
The mission car got traded in for something a little "cooler"....Elders Egan and Jensen were caught driving too fast...NOT!!!
Some of the art work on the 3 Mile Wall
Having fun at the Cardinals game!
Its been another great week in Oakville!
It's already been a long day. We moved back into the other Bankheads this morning/afternoon. It was going to be really simple and not take very long, but it never happens that way. We have this really big white board where we keep the names of our missionaries and their investigators. We asked Pres. Bankhead to help us move it in his car. The last time we did that we just threw it inside the car, but this time there were things in it so we couldn't. So we just threw it on top and put a rope around it. Well, as we were driving over, it kept flying up and flapping in the wind, but the rope kept it on. Well, right before we got to Brents, the wind blew, snapped it in two, and fell on the road. It was really funny to watch (we were driving behind him). We get everything to Brents, and Sis. Bankhea needs us to switch the beds from the basement up to the second floor and then bring two more down for us. So by the time we got everything done it was later in the afternoon and now we need to finish doing all our other P-day stuff. Oh, and I won't even be at home tonight because I'm going to another area for exchanges. And today fits perfectly into the rest of our week which is just as hectic.
Mom-speaking of pants...I'll need some new black suit pants. Same size and everything. Yes I got your package, thanks. I will probably be sending a package home with stuff I dont need. It will probably have quite a few ties in it, I'm trying to down size. Also another long sleeve white shirt might be nice (15 1/2, and 32-33 sleeve).
Dad-good luck getting up early again. Don't get too use to it, you might just want to do it every morning for old times sake.
Anyway, have a good week.
Love,
Elder Egan
Elders Egan and Westfall with Bro. Perry
A popular "gnome" around the mission home:)
The mission car got traded in for something a little "cooler"....Elders Egan and Jensen were caught driving too fast...NOT!!!
Some of the art work on the 3 Mile Wall
Having fun at the Cardinals game!Its been another great week in Oakville!
It's already been a long day. We moved back into the other Bankheads this morning/afternoon. It was going to be really simple and not take very long, but it never happens that way. We have this really big white board where we keep the names of our missionaries and their investigators. We asked Pres. Bankhead to help us move it in his car. The last time we did that we just threw it inside the car, but this time there were things in it so we couldn't. So we just threw it on top and put a rope around it. Well, as we were driving over, it kept flying up and flapping in the wind, but the rope kept it on. Well, right before we got to Brents, the wind blew, snapped it in two, and fell on the road. It was really funny to watch (we were driving behind him). We get everything to Brents, and Sis. Bankhea needs us to switch the beds from the basement up to the second floor and then bring two more down for us. So by the time we got everything done it was later in the afternoon and now we need to finish doing all our other P-day stuff. Oh, and I won't even be at home tonight because I'm going to another area for exchanges. And today fits perfectly into the rest of our week which is just as hectic.
Mom-speaking of pants...I'll need some new black suit pants. Same size and everything. Yes I got your package, thanks. I will probably be sending a package home with stuff I dont need. It will probably have quite a few ties in it, I'm trying to down size. Also another long sleeve white shirt might be nice (15 1/2, and 32-33 sleeve).
Dad-good luck getting up early again. Don't get too use to it, you might just want to do it every morning for old times sake.
Anyway, have a good week.
Love,
Elder Egan
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Two Weeks of Letters...more pictures to follow
Its been another great week in Oakville!
I think we finally finished up all of our Thanksgiving dinners yesterday. Its all been really good, but we've had three or four full out dinners the past couple of days and turkey is getting a little old, but we're thankful for everything and everyone that helped us out and made sure we were full. We were in the city again this past week. Everything was going fine untill about 3:30 AM! Elder Westfall woke up to an Alarm telling us to get to the first floor (we were on the 7th). So he finally gets me and the other Elders up and we get down stairs. As we get there we see probably eight or so firemen all dressed up all doing different things. It was quite the experinece. Luckily nothing happened (I think one of the alarms malfunctioned or something). So we all slowly went back up stairs and fell back asleep. We also went on Exchanges with the Assistants on Fri. I went with Elder Nelson. We were talking about how this was probably our last Exchange (he goes home after next transfer and he'll probably not be an Assistant any more, and I might not be a zone leader either). We had a really good time and got caught up on everything that has been happening.
Our investigators are doing alright. Margret just keeps pluging along, hopefully she'll be baptized right before Christmas (she's going out of town next week and wants to do it after she gets back). TJ didnt come to church, and we havent been able to teach him lately either or even get a hold of him. Steve and Shelly are doing well too. We weren't able to teach a lesson with both of them because of the crazyness of the week, and next week is just as crazy (we have ZLC, and exchanges almost everyday this next week!).
Mom-Really, I dont need anything. As for places to eat, there is pretty much everything here except Wendys. Oh, I almost forgot Happy late Birthday! Sister Bankhead gave me something to send to you, but I keep forgeting so I'll send it soon.
Dad-The weather has been good. A little cold but nothing too bad. Sounds like Thanksgiving was nice.
Anyway, have a great week.
Love,
Elder Egan
Its been another fantastic week in Oakville! The reason im writing today is because Elder Bednar came yesterday! It was Awesome!! He talked a lot about how our investigators are agents to act, not objects to be acted upon. He showed us this by example more that anything. He treated us as equals, and let us use our agency. Let me explain a little. He started off by asking us what we learned from some of his recent talks (his office sent us two, "Ask in Faith" and "Seek learning by Faith"). After talking about what we learned he would always ask if he could expound on it or "elevate a point that [was] made." We could then say yes or no (everyone said yes) and use our agency in that way to learn more. At the very begining, we were already with our pens and note paper and he says "don't write down anything that I say." We were all sorta taken back and then he explained why. He said that it was a "foolish tradition in the church" that the members write down everything that a General Authority says. He then asked how many of us look at our notes a month after we wrote them, and then how many people know where their notes are after a month. most of us agreed that we don't usually look back. Then he talked about how we do need to write things down though, but its the things that the spirit teaches us, not what the speaker says. At the end he opened it up for questions. He told us about two different types of questions. The first are ones that deal with our specific investigators and what we should do. He said "thats not a bad question, but I'll just answer it now. I have never met that person and therefore wouldnt know what they need.... you have though." The second type of question was one that "only Elder Bednar, an Apostle could answer." He gave us an example of asking what it was like to be one of 14 men who were in the room of the temple when the prophetic mantel fell upon Pres. Monson. He then said that that was a much better question. He went on to say that you will probably never have an opportunity to be able to ask an Apostle a question in that small of group (there was probably a little over 200 there, with 190 missionaries and some drivers). So you can imagine that all of the questions were really good. There was one about how he has been able to magnify his calling. In order to answer that he had his son come up (his son is going to the University of Illinois, which is in our mission) and tell us how his dad has done that. He talked about how magnifying our calling doesn't mean making it bigger but keeping it simple and consistant. Another missionary asked about having "dull" times of spirituality, or in other words as Elder Bednar said it, not having a spiritual 2x4 hit you all the time. He then said that when we don't have spiritual experiences all of the time it is the Lord showing us His trust in us, that we don't need them constantly. So all in all it was super neat and maybe when I get home I can tell you about the question that I asked and the answer that he gave me. I've tried a couple of times to put it in my journal and in writing but it never quite seems to fit. Don't get too excited, its nothing huge, but it is a condition and a promise that was given to me by an Apostle, its pretty neat. He didn't give me the answer, nor did I ask for the answer, but rather how to find the answer.
So, as amazing as yesterday was there is always the opposition to those blessings. Well my opposition came the day before on Sunday. I woke up multipule times Sunday morning with a really bad upset stomache (I didnt get any more that 4 hrs of sleep) but I got up and we went to a Stake meeting and then to a ward meeting where Bro. Firth, our Ward mission leader, finally sent me home. I was super pale and just wasn't feeling good. Luckily it only really lasted for 24 hrs but I'm still feeling the effects. I haven't had a "meal" since Sat night. I've had a few bites here and there but nothing really. It was miserable though. All I did was lay on the sofa and watch church movies. During church I had one of the other Oakville elders stay with me so that an elder from each comp. was at church for our investigators. Then the Bankheads got home so I was with Pres. Bankhead for the rest of the night. Elder Westfall went with an RM that has been helping us out a lot.
Mom-I really don't need anything. A new tie or two is always fun though, haha. So now a little family history about our ward. Everyone is related to everyone. There are really only two or three families. The Bankheads-I started off by living with Brent and Laurice. His mom and dad are Dee and Anita, who we live with now. Eventually we will move back in with Brent though. I mentioned Bro. Firth a little earlier. Well he married Brents oldest sister and lives across the street from us. Dee and Anita, the mom and dad, are in the Temple Presidency for their second time. So hope that is all clear as mud. We have a lot of dinners/meals but when we don't frozen burritos and pot pies are our favorites.
Dad-Have fun in all that snow and maybe ice. We are finally supposed to start getting cold again. We've been able to hold off really nicely. Its been in the 70's for the past couple of weeks. Have fun with everyone at Thanksgiving, give everyone my love. We go to the members homes. We have our "official" dinner with the Bishops sisters family (again some more crazy family stuff in the ward) and then we might spend some time with the Bankheads and Firths.
Have a great week.
I think we finally finished up all of our Thanksgiving dinners yesterday. Its all been really good, but we've had three or four full out dinners the past couple of days and turkey is getting a little old, but we're thankful for everything and everyone that helped us out and made sure we were full. We were in the city again this past week. Everything was going fine untill about 3:30 AM! Elder Westfall woke up to an Alarm telling us to get to the first floor (we were on the 7th). So he finally gets me and the other Elders up and we get down stairs. As we get there we see probably eight or so firemen all dressed up all doing different things. It was quite the experinece. Luckily nothing happened (I think one of the alarms malfunctioned or something). So we all slowly went back up stairs and fell back asleep. We also went on Exchanges with the Assistants on Fri. I went with Elder Nelson. We were talking about how this was probably our last Exchange (he goes home after next transfer and he'll probably not be an Assistant any more, and I might not be a zone leader either). We had a really good time and got caught up on everything that has been happening.
Our investigators are doing alright. Margret just keeps pluging along, hopefully she'll be baptized right before Christmas (she's going out of town next week and wants to do it after she gets back). TJ didnt come to church, and we havent been able to teach him lately either or even get a hold of him. Steve and Shelly are doing well too. We weren't able to teach a lesson with both of them because of the crazyness of the week, and next week is just as crazy (we have ZLC, and exchanges almost everyday this next week!).
Mom-Really, I dont need anything. As for places to eat, there is pretty much everything here except Wendys. Oh, I almost forgot Happy late Birthday! Sister Bankhead gave me something to send to you, but I keep forgeting so I'll send it soon.
Dad-The weather has been good. A little cold but nothing too bad. Sounds like Thanksgiving was nice.
Anyway, have a great week.
Love,
Elder Egan
Its been another fantastic week in Oakville! The reason im writing today is because Elder Bednar came yesterday! It was Awesome!! He talked a lot about how our investigators are agents to act, not objects to be acted upon. He showed us this by example more that anything. He treated us as equals, and let us use our agency. Let me explain a little. He started off by asking us what we learned from some of his recent talks (his office sent us two, "Ask in Faith" and "Seek learning by Faith"). After talking about what we learned he would always ask if he could expound on it or "elevate a point that [was] made." We could then say yes or no (everyone said yes) and use our agency in that way to learn more. At the very begining, we were already with our pens and note paper and he says "don't write down anything that I say." We were all sorta taken back and then he explained why. He said that it was a "foolish tradition in the church" that the members write down everything that a General Authority says. He then asked how many of us look at our notes a month after we wrote them, and then how many people know where their notes are after a month. most of us agreed that we don't usually look back. Then he talked about how we do need to write things down though, but its the things that the spirit teaches us, not what the speaker says. At the end he opened it up for questions. He told us about two different types of questions. The first are ones that deal with our specific investigators and what we should do. He said "thats not a bad question, but I'll just answer it now. I have never met that person and therefore wouldnt know what they need.... you have though." The second type of question was one that "only Elder Bednar, an Apostle could answer." He gave us an example of asking what it was like to be one of 14 men who were in the room of the temple when the prophetic mantel fell upon Pres. Monson. He then said that that was a much better question. He went on to say that you will probably never have an opportunity to be able to ask an Apostle a question in that small of group (there was probably a little over 200 there, with 190 missionaries and some drivers). So you can imagine that all of the questions were really good. There was one about how he has been able to magnify his calling. In order to answer that he had his son come up (his son is going to the University of Illinois, which is in our mission) and tell us how his dad has done that. He talked about how magnifying our calling doesn't mean making it bigger but keeping it simple and consistant. Another missionary asked about having "dull" times of spirituality, or in other words as Elder Bednar said it, not having a spiritual 2x4 hit you all the time. He then said that when we don't have spiritual experiences all of the time it is the Lord showing us His trust in us, that we don't need them constantly. So all in all it was super neat and maybe when I get home I can tell you about the question that I asked and the answer that he gave me. I've tried a couple of times to put it in my journal and in writing but it never quite seems to fit. Don't get too excited, its nothing huge, but it is a condition and a promise that was given to me by an Apostle, its pretty neat. He didn't give me the answer, nor did I ask for the answer, but rather how to find the answer.
So, as amazing as yesterday was there is always the opposition to those blessings. Well my opposition came the day before on Sunday. I woke up multipule times Sunday morning with a really bad upset stomache (I didnt get any more that 4 hrs of sleep) but I got up and we went to a Stake meeting and then to a ward meeting where Bro. Firth, our Ward mission leader, finally sent me home. I was super pale and just wasn't feeling good. Luckily it only really lasted for 24 hrs but I'm still feeling the effects. I haven't had a "meal" since Sat night. I've had a few bites here and there but nothing really. It was miserable though. All I did was lay on the sofa and watch church movies. During church I had one of the other Oakville elders stay with me so that an elder from each comp. was at church for our investigators. Then the Bankheads got home so I was with Pres. Bankhead for the rest of the night. Elder Westfall went with an RM that has been helping us out a lot.
Mom-I really don't need anything. A new tie or two is always fun though, haha. So now a little family history about our ward. Everyone is related to everyone. There are really only two or three families. The Bankheads-I started off by living with Brent and Laurice. His mom and dad are Dee and Anita, who we live with now. Eventually we will move back in with Brent though. I mentioned Bro. Firth a little earlier. Well he married Brents oldest sister and lives across the street from us. Dee and Anita, the mom and dad, are in the Temple Presidency for their second time. So hope that is all clear as mud. We have a lot of dinners/meals but when we don't frozen burritos and pot pies are our favorites.
Dad-Have fun in all that snow and maybe ice. We are finally supposed to start getting cold again. We've been able to hold off really nicely. Its been in the 70's for the past couple of weeks. Have fun with everyone at Thanksgiving, give everyone my love. We go to the members homes. We have our "official" dinner with the Bishops sisters family (again some more crazy family stuff in the ward) and then we might spend some time with the Bankheads and Firths.
Have a great week.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Pictures of the Last 6 Months
We finally recieved the past 6 months pictures....that seems to be about how often we get them. He will more than likely be bringing the next pictures home with him in late April...early May.
This is the Tia family....He was Ward Mission Leader in Columbia....we sent all his mail to their house because his apartment wasn't safe enough to get mail.
Here are some energetic Elders....at The Botanical Gardens in St. Louis.
This is Jon with President and Sister Clark at the Cardinals Game.
Had to get this in.....remember the tow truck story??? Jon promised he would get a picture of one just for me:)
This is the Tia family....He was Ward Mission Leader in Columbia....we sent all his mail to their house because his apartment wasn't safe enough to get mail.
Here are some energetic Elders....at The Botanical Gardens in St. Louis.
This is Jon with President and Sister Clark at the Cardinals Game.
Had to get this in.....remember the tow truck story??? Jon promised he would get a picture of one just for me:)
Staying Put
Its been another great week in Oakville! and it will be for another six weeks!
Transfer calls came Saturday night. They were really quick this time because no one in our zone is moving! We were really suprised (me especially, because I was almost certain that I would leave. I'm glad I'm not though, especially over the holidays). So at the end of the transfer I'll have been here for seven and a half months, my longest area. The ward was excited that all four of us were staying too. The mission is really excited, with the holidays and Elder Bednar next week, there is a lot to look forward to.
We were also able to see almost all of our investigators this past week. Margret is still coming and doing great. Hopefully she will have a date soon. Steve and Shelly are also doing great. Shelly more so, she is reading and praying everynight. Steve on the other hand is letting life get in the way. We have another apointment with them tomorrow and we're bringing over someone from the ward, so hopefully that'll help out a lot. TJ is doing well too. He and his mom came to church today with a bunch of their cousins. He has a date for the 21st (sunday) but we're planning on moving it back. We still have a little bit to teach him and we want them to be more consistant coming to church.
A couple of weeks ago we got a call from the office telling us that a teacher wanted us to come to her class and talk about our beliefs. We're going tomorrow morning. The best part is that it is a private Luthern School. Missionaries do things like this all the time, but this will be my first (I've had the opportunity, but have always passed it on to other missionaries). So it'll be an experience having to "go back to high school."
Mom-sounds like everyone is pretty busy, thats good though. Oh, we'll be moving back to the other Bankheads here pretty soon. not entirely sure when, but I'll let you know. Dad-wow 11 gallons! thats a ton. I'm sure it does good though.
Oh, I almost forgot to tell you about our hunting adventure. So Pres. Bankhead is a big bow hunter. He goes out most nights to try and get a deer. Well, he hasn't had any luck yet this season. He is always telling us that one of these times he's going to need our help pulling out the deer. So last monday we were eating dinner with them and pres. Bankhead was late coming in. he finally hit something and so he came and got us. Thing is, is that it was dark when he shot it, he wasnt sure where he hit it, or where it fell. So we looked all over for it for a little while and were about to head in, when Elder Hendricks found some blood. We followed the blood trail for a while longer but then went in for the night (it was heading towards someones property and we didn't want to chase it any further if it was still up). So after some meetings in the morning we came back home to help him. We looked for a while longer but we eventually lost it.
Anyway, have another great week.
Love,
Elder Egan
Transfer calls came Saturday night. They were really quick this time because no one in our zone is moving! We were really suprised (me especially, because I was almost certain that I would leave. I'm glad I'm not though, especially over the holidays). So at the end of the transfer I'll have been here for seven and a half months, my longest area. The ward was excited that all four of us were staying too. The mission is really excited, with the holidays and Elder Bednar next week, there is a lot to look forward to.
We were also able to see almost all of our investigators this past week. Margret is still coming and doing great. Hopefully she will have a date soon. Steve and Shelly are also doing great. Shelly more so, she is reading and praying everynight. Steve on the other hand is letting life get in the way. We have another apointment with them tomorrow and we're bringing over someone from the ward, so hopefully that'll help out a lot. TJ is doing well too. He and his mom came to church today with a bunch of their cousins. He has a date for the 21st (sunday) but we're planning on moving it back. We still have a little bit to teach him and we want them to be more consistant coming to church.
A couple of weeks ago we got a call from the office telling us that a teacher wanted us to come to her class and talk about our beliefs. We're going tomorrow morning. The best part is that it is a private Luthern School. Missionaries do things like this all the time, but this will be my first (I've had the opportunity, but have always passed it on to other missionaries). So it'll be an experience having to "go back to high school."
Mom-sounds like everyone is pretty busy, thats good though. Oh, we'll be moving back to the other Bankheads here pretty soon. not entirely sure when, but I'll let you know. Dad-wow 11 gallons! thats a ton. I'm sure it does good though.
Oh, I almost forgot to tell you about our hunting adventure. So Pres. Bankhead is a big bow hunter. He goes out most nights to try and get a deer. Well, he hasn't had any luck yet this season. He is always telling us that one of these times he's going to need our help pulling out the deer. So last monday we were eating dinner with them and pres. Bankhead was late coming in. he finally hit something and so he came and got us. Thing is, is that it was dark when he shot it, he wasnt sure where he hit it, or where it fell. So we looked all over for it for a little while and were about to head in, when Elder Hendricks found some blood. We followed the blood trail for a while longer but then went in for the night (it was heading towards someones property and we didn't want to chase it any further if it was still up). So after some meetings in the morning we came back home to help him. We looked for a while longer but we eventually lost it.
Anyway, have another great week.
Love,
Elder Egan
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
The Spirit is Strong
Its been another great week in Oakville!
It was a busy week for us again. On Tuesday we had a special team up with a Bro. Steward, who works for the missionary department at the MTC. We went out that night to a couple appointments with Shelly and also Margret. We had some really good lessons and were able to invite the spirit really strongly into them. We stressed the importance of the Sabbath day to Shelly, and then went over the story of King Lamoni's dad's conversion with Margret. Then on Fri. we had another training meeting with Bro. Steward and another man that works at the MTC. It was really good. Wed. we were in the city again, but luckily this time nothing happened to our car. Fri. night, we had another lesson with Margret in a members home. It was probably the most spiritually intense lessons I've been a part of. Both Elder Westfall and myself were just as enlightened and edified as anyone else there that night. We've been working with Margret to be baptized, (she knows everything and has a strong testimony) but this time we really just sat back and let the spirit work. It was great.
Then Sat. we had our ward trunk or treat. Elder Westfall and I opened our truck and decorated it. I must say that for a couple of Elders, we were pretty creative (if thats saying anything). There was also another baptism up in the city that we went to. The stake/zone had a really good month for baptisms, 6, and next month is looking just as good, I think we have 7 dates right now.
Something else exciting is happening next month. Elder Bednar is coming and holding a mission conference right before Thanksgiving! He has a son that lives in our mission, so he's really coming for that, but decided to come and talk to us since he's here. After that I'll have two down and ten more to go before I finish up, haha.
Mom- The zone p-day went really well. We ate alot and played some games. Then some elders went and played Bball and others carved some pumpkins. It was really fun and a good activity. Thats too bad about Bro. Green...... they were on the trek with me. Thats good to hear that Jeff is doing well. You'll have to let me know how he gets back into the swing of things.
Dad-sounds like you've had a busy week too. I only just finished my ballot the other day, and due to the fact that there isn't much time before it needs to be in, I just mailed it from here.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
It was a busy week for us again. On Tuesday we had a special team up with a Bro. Steward, who works for the missionary department at the MTC. We went out that night to a couple appointments with Shelly and also Margret. We had some really good lessons and were able to invite the spirit really strongly into them. We stressed the importance of the Sabbath day to Shelly, and then went over the story of King Lamoni's dad's conversion with Margret. Then on Fri. we had another training meeting with Bro. Steward and another man that works at the MTC. It was really good. Wed. we were in the city again, but luckily this time nothing happened to our car. Fri. night, we had another lesson with Margret in a members home. It was probably the most spiritually intense lessons I've been a part of. Both Elder Westfall and myself were just as enlightened and edified as anyone else there that night. We've been working with Margret to be baptized, (she knows everything and has a strong testimony) but this time we really just sat back and let the spirit work. It was great.
Then Sat. we had our ward trunk or treat. Elder Westfall and I opened our truck and decorated it. I must say that for a couple of Elders, we were pretty creative (if thats saying anything). There was also another baptism up in the city that we went to. The stake/zone had a really good month for baptisms, 6, and next month is looking just as good, I think we have 7 dates right now.
Something else exciting is happening next month. Elder Bednar is coming and holding a mission conference right before Thanksgiving! He has a son that lives in our mission, so he's really coming for that, but decided to come and talk to us since he's here. After that I'll have two down and ten more to go before I finish up, haha.
Mom- The zone p-day went really well. We ate alot and played some games. Then some elders went and played Bball and others carved some pumpkins. It was really fun and a good activity. Thats too bad about Bro. Green...... they were on the trek with me. Thats good to hear that Jeff is doing well. You'll have to let me know how he gets back into the swing of things.
Dad-sounds like you've had a busy week too. I only just finished my ballot the other day, and due to the fact that there isn't much time before it needs to be in, I just mailed it from here.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Angels on Both Sides of the Veil
It's been another great week in Oakville!
There were two baptisms in our ward yesterday! The other two Elders have been working with a mother and daughter. It was really great to watch them make that covenant and there were a lot of people from the ward there to support them. The ward is doing a really great job reaching out to all the people that have been coming. It was also neat because it was Elder Hendricks first baptism and the girl asked him to baptize her. It was really good for him to finally see some fruits of all his labors. We also had a really good meeting with all our district leaders right after the baptism. It was definatly one of the best I've been at. Today we are having a Zone p-day. The sisters in our zone are putting it on. We're really excited and hope that it goes well. We are in charge of the grilling so hopefully we don't mess up.
Mom-its good to hear that your doing better. What was it that they finally did after we talked? Did they just tell you to take the meds and come back? I opened a new box of contacts the other day and they don't seem to be working as well. I think they are some older ones, so do you know if contacts "expire" after a while?
Dad-I'm glad to hear that everything worked out with you too. I don't remember, but did you say that you had work off?
Well I'm not sure what else to say, since I've already told you what's been happening. And I know for sure that angels are always watching out for us on "both sides of the veil."
Love you,
Elder Egan
There were two baptisms in our ward yesterday! The other two Elders have been working with a mother and daughter. It was really great to watch them make that covenant and there were a lot of people from the ward there to support them. The ward is doing a really great job reaching out to all the people that have been coming. It was also neat because it was Elder Hendricks first baptism and the girl asked him to baptize her. It was really good for him to finally see some fruits of all his labors. We also had a really good meeting with all our district leaders right after the baptism. It was definatly one of the best I've been at. Today we are having a Zone p-day. The sisters in our zone are putting it on. We're really excited and hope that it goes well. We are in charge of the grilling so hopefully we don't mess up.
Mom-its good to hear that your doing better. What was it that they finally did after we talked? Did they just tell you to take the meds and come back? I opened a new box of contacts the other day and they don't seem to be working as well. I think they are some older ones, so do you know if contacts "expire" after a while?
Dad-I'm glad to hear that everything worked out with you too. I don't remember, but did you say that you had work off?
Well I'm not sure what else to say, since I've already told you what's been happening. And I know for sure that angels are always watching out for us on "both sides of the veil."
Love you,
Elder Egan
Tine is Flying By
Its been another great week in Oakville!!
We had a really good week. We got a few new investigators. There is a man that we started seeing that is friends with a few families in the ward. So we took a recent RM who knew him over and were able to make a lot of head way and we have a return appointment for this wed. We also finally got ahold of this Part Member family that we've been trying to teach the whole time ive been here. We were able to teach her son, they came to church, and we have another apointment wtih them today. He turns 12 next month, and the big push is to try and baptize him so he can get the priesthood soon after. We'll see how it goes.
We've had some really great lessons with Margret too. When we taught her last friday she still didnt feel ready. She tells us she wants to be baptized but just not yet. We're teaching her today as well and we're planning to talk about prayer some more. The other two elders in the ward have a baptism this weekend. We're really excited for them. They have a lot of work and the ward is really excited for everyone that is coming. Together we had eight investigators there on sunday and that has been about average for the past month or so. The great thing is, they all want to be baptized, we just have to work out a few "road blocks" (Word of Wisdom, and marriage mainly).
We have another really busy week this week. We have another training meeting tues, exchanges wed and thurs, zone leader council fri, and then a district leader meeting sun and in the midst of all that, apointments with our investigators and what not. We're going to get a lot done so it should go by fairly quick.
Mom-Yes I'd agree, time is flying by way to quick. We're being "observed" next monday. There was an Elder here last transfer who went out to Smithton Ridge. I had him say hi to everyone for me and call a few back to repentance. It's always good to keep in touch with those you teach, even though its hard.
Dad-We usually do baptisms on Sat so that they can be confirmed the next day in sacrament. I think that the church discourages same day confirmations, but its up to the bishop (he has the keys and authority over the confirmations). Yeah, I've heard of Sis. Shumsky, has never been in my zone though.
Josh-tell Ms. McMaster hi for me and then make some smart comment about "house wives." She'll know what your talking about.
Anyway, have a great week.
Love,
Elder Egan
We had a really good week. We got a few new investigators. There is a man that we started seeing that is friends with a few families in the ward. So we took a recent RM who knew him over and were able to make a lot of head way and we have a return appointment for this wed. We also finally got ahold of this Part Member family that we've been trying to teach the whole time ive been here. We were able to teach her son, they came to church, and we have another apointment wtih them today. He turns 12 next month, and the big push is to try and baptize him so he can get the priesthood soon after. We'll see how it goes.
We've had some really great lessons with Margret too. When we taught her last friday she still didnt feel ready. She tells us she wants to be baptized but just not yet. We're teaching her today as well and we're planning to talk about prayer some more. The other two elders in the ward have a baptism this weekend. We're really excited for them. They have a lot of work and the ward is really excited for everyone that is coming. Together we had eight investigators there on sunday and that has been about average for the past month or so. The great thing is, they all want to be baptized, we just have to work out a few "road blocks" (Word of Wisdom, and marriage mainly).
We have another really busy week this week. We have another training meeting tues, exchanges wed and thurs, zone leader council fri, and then a district leader meeting sun and in the midst of all that, apointments with our investigators and what not. We're going to get a lot done so it should go by fairly quick.
Mom-Yes I'd agree, time is flying by way to quick. We're being "observed" next monday. There was an Elder here last transfer who went out to Smithton Ridge. I had him say hi to everyone for me and call a few back to repentance. It's always good to keep in touch with those you teach, even though its hard.
Dad-We usually do baptisms on Sat so that they can be confirmed the next day in sacrament. I think that the church discourages same day confirmations, but its up to the bishop (he has the keys and authority over the confirmations). Yeah, I've heard of Sis. Shumsky, has never been in my zone though.
Josh-tell Ms. McMaster hi for me and then make some smart comment about "house wives." She'll know what your talking about.
Anyway, have a great week.
Love,
Elder Egan
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Training from Salt Lake
Its been another great week in Oakville!!
We had an interesting weekend this week. We had three baptisms in three different areas! We went to all of them. We have 9 more before the end of the month. We are trying to make as many as possible to show our support to the Elders and Sisters. Its really fun to watch. One of them this weekend was with the 100 year old lady. It was a really neat service. When she was baptized, she was gently set in under the water and very carfully brought back up (normally it seems that they are "thrown" under the water). It was just a really neat experience. Then after another baptism we had to correct some Elders. That is the worst part of our job. Although it was done in the spirit, it is never fun.
We had a really good sacrament/testimony meeting as well. We had two people there and the other Elders had seven! Margret came, like normal, and Steve and his five year old son came. It was really kinda funny. Johnathan (the son) didn't want to leave his dad for primary, so Steve stayed in Primary for the last two hours. It looked like Johnathan made some friends though so next week Steve will be able to go to gospel principles. We still aren't sure about if Margret will get baptized this weekend. We'll find out tomorrow. She doesn't have a problem with the doctrine (from what we can tell), so we're trying to figure out how we can help her out still.
You may remember me talking about how the Church has revamped missionary work a few months ago. With that came these training meetings every other transfer. Well it's that time again, but in addition to that we are having an "offical training meeting." I guess two men are coming from "Salt Lake" (we say that anyone/anything offical comes from Salt Lake) to train us. As a part of that, they are going to follow around some missionaries a few nights before the big meeting. Well, we were chosen. We weren't sure that was good or bad but it sounds fun.
Mom-Yeah, my full name is fine. No I don't need anything, thanks though
Dad-We now have eight zones in our mission. and iIthink we have around 170 missionaries (give or take a little).
Anyway, it seems that we have another good week in front of us. There was an Elder who just came home in our ward and he is excited to come out and work with us. we're looking forward to it.
Have a great week,
Love,
Elder Egan
We had an interesting weekend this week. We had three baptisms in three different areas! We went to all of them. We have 9 more before the end of the month. We are trying to make as many as possible to show our support to the Elders and Sisters. Its really fun to watch. One of them this weekend was with the 100 year old lady. It was a really neat service. When she was baptized, she was gently set in under the water and very carfully brought back up (normally it seems that they are "thrown" under the water). It was just a really neat experience. Then after another baptism we had to correct some Elders. That is the worst part of our job. Although it was done in the spirit, it is never fun.
We had a really good sacrament/testimony meeting as well. We had two people there and the other Elders had seven! Margret came, like normal, and Steve and his five year old son came. It was really kinda funny. Johnathan (the son) didn't want to leave his dad for primary, so Steve stayed in Primary for the last two hours. It looked like Johnathan made some friends though so next week Steve will be able to go to gospel principles. We still aren't sure about if Margret will get baptized this weekend. We'll find out tomorrow. She doesn't have a problem with the doctrine (from what we can tell), so we're trying to figure out how we can help her out still.
You may remember me talking about how the Church has revamped missionary work a few months ago. With that came these training meetings every other transfer. Well it's that time again, but in addition to that we are having an "offical training meeting." I guess two men are coming from "Salt Lake" (we say that anyone/anything offical comes from Salt Lake) to train us. As a part of that, they are going to follow around some missionaries a few nights before the big meeting. Well, we were chosen. We weren't sure that was good or bad but it sounds fun.
Mom-Yeah, my full name is fine. No I don't need anything, thanks though
Dad-We now have eight zones in our mission. and iIthink we have around 170 missionaries (give or take a little).
Anyway, it seems that we have another good week in front of us. There was an Elder who just came home in our ward and he is excited to come out and work with us. we're looking forward to it.
Have a great week,
Love,
Elder Egan
Monday, October 11, 2010
Transfer Call Never Came
Its been another great week in Oakville!
So transfer calls were supposed to come inbetween sessions on Sat. but the call never came. We figured that the Assistants were just busy and would call us after Priesthood. Well, no one ever called. We finally decided to call them and it turned out that they had completely missed us. Elder Westfall and I are staying another one. At the end of this next transfer, I will have been in Oakville for six months (just as long as Chesterfield).
I'm really excited because we were finally able to set a date with Margret! Its only tenative for the 16th right now, but with a lot of prayers, hopefully it will happen. We are starting to meet with her twice a week to help out and she is doing great. She came to both sessions on Sat. and hopefully watched sunday at home.
Conference was great yet again. Each time I think that it can't possibly get any better it always does. I loved Elder Hollands, and both from Pres. Uchtdorf just to name a few. Pres. Uchtdorf's talk in Priesthood was especially good about pride. I learned a ton and Elder Westfall and I are trying to apply it. We watched all of the sessions at the church. I'd much rather go to someones home, but Elder Westfall prefers the Church. The benchs get really hard after the first three sessions.
Going back to transfers, there is a lot of change in the zone this time. All but three areas are being moved. However, I have served around almost every one that is coming in. I'm really excited for most of the areas, but a little nervous for a few. It'll all work out though.
Anyway not too much else happened this week.
Love,
Elder Egan
So transfer calls were supposed to come inbetween sessions on Sat. but the call never came. We figured that the Assistants were just busy and would call us after Priesthood. Well, no one ever called. We finally decided to call them and it turned out that they had completely missed us. Elder Westfall and I are staying another one. At the end of this next transfer, I will have been in Oakville for six months (just as long as Chesterfield).
I'm really excited because we were finally able to set a date with Margret! Its only tenative for the 16th right now, but with a lot of prayers, hopefully it will happen. We are starting to meet with her twice a week to help out and she is doing great. She came to both sessions on Sat. and hopefully watched sunday at home.
Conference was great yet again. Each time I think that it can't possibly get any better it always does. I loved Elder Hollands, and both from Pres. Uchtdorf just to name a few. Pres. Uchtdorf's talk in Priesthood was especially good about pride. I learned a ton and Elder Westfall and I are trying to apply it. We watched all of the sessions at the church. I'd much rather go to someones home, but Elder Westfall prefers the Church. The benchs get really hard after the first three sessions.
Going back to transfers, there is a lot of change in the zone this time. All but three areas are being moved. However, I have served around almost every one that is coming in. I'm really excited for most of the areas, but a little nervous for a few. It'll all work out though.
Anyway not too much else happened this week.
Love,
Elder Egan
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Investigators and Friends
Its been another great week in Oakville!
We had an amazing day at church yesterday! Well, not so much us, but the other elders. They had eight of their investigators at church, then we had one, and there were a few people that brought friends. in total we had 13 nonmembers at chruch and all but two stayed all three hours. We had a really good appointment with Margret, the older lady we've been teaching, on Sat. Our appointments are usually Friday but she called up Friday morning to reschedule for Sat. We are pretty sure we have found out why she hasn't been baptized yet. She's been telling us all along we just werent "listening" with our spiritual ears. She has had this tradition in her family that they associate themselves with a church, live it and all that fun stuff, but never join it. We finally realized (she more so told us) that she didn't want to "belong" to anything but Christ, not a church. Then it finally clicked for me and we talked about how all the church is is His fold here on this earth. Then when she came to church on Sunday, there was a difference about her. We are planning on setting a baptismal date this coming Friday, because NOW she is ready!!!!!!! We have also had some great lessons with a couple that we found a long time ago, Steve and Shelly. They didn't make it to church so we went by Sunday night and caught him heading to the gym, so we just taught her about prayer. She was so appreciative about it, and that she can now talk to her Father. It felt great. We have another appointment with them on Tues and we want to bring them to the church so they will be comfortable coming.
Transfer calls are this week. I have no idea what is going to happen to me. It could go any which way. I'm actually pretty nervous about this one, I'd love to stay one more, but it isn't about what I want. There are a lot of possibilities this transfer so we'll see.
One of the Elders tore his ACL in his knee this past P-day. He was really bummed out because he goes home this next week and can't work very hard to finish his mission. He stays in the office with one of the Assistants to the Pres. til five, then goes out to "work" as much as he can in his area from five on.
Mom- Yes we got the package, the cookies are great. They aren't helping me to stay in shape though (but that's alright).
Dad-I'm looking forward to conference too! Elder Westfall prefers to watch it at the church, and I like to watch it in the members homes, so we'll probably do both. It will be interesting to see what the focus is this time. I've started a study on Forgiveness, maybe I will be able to get some insights from some of the talks.
Love,
Elder Egan
We had an amazing day at church yesterday! Well, not so much us, but the other elders. They had eight of their investigators at church, then we had one, and there were a few people that brought friends. in total we had 13 nonmembers at chruch and all but two stayed all three hours. We had a really good appointment with Margret, the older lady we've been teaching, on Sat. Our appointments are usually Friday but she called up Friday morning to reschedule for Sat. We are pretty sure we have found out why she hasn't been baptized yet. She's been telling us all along we just werent "listening" with our spiritual ears. She has had this tradition in her family that they associate themselves with a church, live it and all that fun stuff, but never join it. We finally realized (she more so told us) that she didn't want to "belong" to anything but Christ, not a church. Then it finally clicked for me and we talked about how all the church is is His fold here on this earth. Then when she came to church on Sunday, there was a difference about her. We are planning on setting a baptismal date this coming Friday, because NOW she is ready!!!!!!! We have also had some great lessons with a couple that we found a long time ago, Steve and Shelly. They didn't make it to church so we went by Sunday night and caught him heading to the gym, so we just taught her about prayer. She was so appreciative about it, and that she can now talk to her Father. It felt great. We have another appointment with them on Tues and we want to bring them to the church so they will be comfortable coming.
Transfer calls are this week. I have no idea what is going to happen to me. It could go any which way. I'm actually pretty nervous about this one, I'd love to stay one more, but it isn't about what I want. There are a lot of possibilities this transfer so we'll see.
One of the Elders tore his ACL in his knee this past P-day. He was really bummed out because he goes home this next week and can't work very hard to finish his mission. He stays in the office with one of the Assistants to the Pres. til five, then goes out to "work" as much as he can in his area from five on.
Mom- Yes we got the package, the cookies are great. They aren't helping me to stay in shape though (but that's alright).
Dad-I'm looking forward to conference too! Elder Westfall prefers to watch it at the church, and I like to watch it in the members homes, so we'll probably do both. It will be interesting to see what the focus is this time. I've started a study on Forgiveness, maybe I will be able to get some insights from some of the talks.
Love,
Elder Egan
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Be Fully Engaged in the Work of The Lord
Its been another great week in Oakville!
Just when I thought that summer was over we had a fairly hot and humid day yesterday and it sounds like it will be like that for the rest of the week. Luckily we have quite a few appointments this week with investigators. The work is really starting to get going again. Hopefully by the end of the month we will have three or four baptismal dates. We had a really fun time last week at the zoo and arch. Luckily we didn't get towed, we did however, get a parking ticket!!! It wasn't really our fault though, there were three signs all saying different things, so we just decided to park. Lucky for us, it wasnt quite $400, only $25. I have decided after that, that I refuse to drive/park in the city anymore.
This past weekend was really great too. We had another leadership training, a zone leader council, priesthood leadership meeting, and a special zone conference with Elder Richards from the second quorm of seventy. Oh yea, we also had our stake conference in the middle of all that and one of our area authorities was there. Needless to say, we had lots of meetings this weekend (thats also why we are having P day today, because of zone conference yesterday). We got some great council from Elder Richards. He talked about how to have effective councils, becoming sanctified, leadership, and a bunch of other stuff that I cant remember right now. We also had our team ups with the assistants last week. I reminded Elder Nelson how long I've been a zone leader, nine and a half months, sounds like I might go another transfer though. I wouldn't mind, but we'll see what happens.
During stake conference the area authority, Elder Deshler, talked about "multitasking." he said that when someone multitasks they only focus a little bit on everything. He then related it to the gospel. if we are trying to include the gospel in our "multitasking" we won't get very much out of it. Instead, we need to make sure that we are fully engaged in the work of the Lord in every calling we have, every time we read the scriptures, or every time that we pray. It was really a good reminder.
Mom-My mouth is doing good. we have a ton of dentist and orthodontists in the ward if anything were to happen.
Dad-I dont entirely remember the bishops son referring us to anyone, we did have our ward mission leaders son introduce us to one of his friends. nothing really came of it though. We'll get big rain storms here too, but in about 5 min. everything will be dried up though.
Anyway, have a great week.
Love,
Elder Egan
Just when I thought that summer was over we had a fairly hot and humid day yesterday and it sounds like it will be like that for the rest of the week. Luckily we have quite a few appointments this week with investigators. The work is really starting to get going again. Hopefully by the end of the month we will have three or four baptismal dates. We had a really fun time last week at the zoo and arch. Luckily we didn't get towed, we did however, get a parking ticket!!! It wasn't really our fault though, there were three signs all saying different things, so we just decided to park. Lucky for us, it wasnt quite $400, only $25. I have decided after that, that I refuse to drive/park in the city anymore.
This past weekend was really great too. We had another leadership training, a zone leader council, priesthood leadership meeting, and a special zone conference with Elder Richards from the second quorm of seventy. Oh yea, we also had our stake conference in the middle of all that and one of our area authorities was there. Needless to say, we had lots of meetings this weekend (thats also why we are having P day today, because of zone conference yesterday). We got some great council from Elder Richards. He talked about how to have effective councils, becoming sanctified, leadership, and a bunch of other stuff that I cant remember right now. We also had our team ups with the assistants last week. I reminded Elder Nelson how long I've been a zone leader, nine and a half months, sounds like I might go another transfer though. I wouldn't mind, but we'll see what happens.
During stake conference the area authority, Elder Deshler, talked about "multitasking." he said that when someone multitasks they only focus a little bit on everything. He then related it to the gospel. if we are trying to include the gospel in our "multitasking" we won't get very much out of it. Instead, we need to make sure that we are fully engaged in the work of the Lord in every calling we have, every time we read the scriptures, or every time that we pray. It was really a good reminder.
Mom-My mouth is doing good. we have a ton of dentist and orthodontists in the ward if anything were to happen.
Dad-I dont entirely remember the bishops son referring us to anyone, we did have our ward mission leaders son introduce us to one of his friends. nothing really came of it though. We'll get big rain storms here too, but in about 5 min. everything will be dried up though.
Anyway, have a great week.
Love,
Elder Egan
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Going Through Hard Time???....Shake a Hand!
Its been another great week in Oakville!
We were on a bunch of team ups this week with the zone. We were up in the city again (we made sure to get a parking pass this time) and then the next day down in Crystal City. Team ups are really tiring but I love being able to spend the time with the other Elders. We had a really good week otherwise, when we were able to work our area. Most of our stop bys and appointments all worked out. It was a well needed "tender mercy." It seems that the work is starting to pick up again and people are getting more excited about missionary work.
We had a really good day at church yesterday. In our PEC/ Ward Council we focused on not only missionary work but also retintion and reactivation. The Bishop challenged everyone to make sure and greet everyone they see, active members and everyone. You never know when someone is going through a hard time and just needs a simple hand shake and hello. He also said that we should make sure to shake at least 15 peoples hands. We made is sorta a game between the four of us elders, and we saw a huge improvement on everyone we saw. It was a nice little reminder from Bishop. One of the talks was something about "purity" and how the pure only see pure. I think he read from Titus or something like that but he talked about how when we're pure that we only see/look for the good or pure in everything/everyone else. The deaf couple wasnt there today, but we still pray for them. Today is E. Ipsen's birthday, so we're going down town to go the the Arch and the Zoo, so its going to be really fun, and on top of that, its a great day. The sun is out, and its not to hot or humid!
Mom-yeah, the Bankheads got home Sat (well Pres. Bankhead did. Sis. Bankhead is still out for another week) and we got our mail. Thats crazy to think that Ryan is already home and Jeff isn't too far behind. And I guess now that I think of it, my time is coming much faster than I want.
Dad-I've been hearing alot from Ether 12:27 this week. I guess I should study it again, maybe the Lord is trying to tell me something. It's a great scripture and one that you can never read too many times. I've been reading lately in Enos, Jarom, and Omni and even though they are not very big, they sure are full of great things.
Love you lots and thanks for everything,
Elder Egan
We were on a bunch of team ups this week with the zone. We were up in the city again (we made sure to get a parking pass this time) and then the next day down in Crystal City. Team ups are really tiring but I love being able to spend the time with the other Elders. We had a really good week otherwise, when we were able to work our area. Most of our stop bys and appointments all worked out. It was a well needed "tender mercy." It seems that the work is starting to pick up again and people are getting more excited about missionary work.
We had a really good day at church yesterday. In our PEC/ Ward Council we focused on not only missionary work but also retintion and reactivation. The Bishop challenged everyone to make sure and greet everyone they see, active members and everyone. You never know when someone is going through a hard time and just needs a simple hand shake and hello. He also said that we should make sure to shake at least 15 peoples hands. We made is sorta a game between the four of us elders, and we saw a huge improvement on everyone we saw. It was a nice little reminder from Bishop. One of the talks was something about "purity" and how the pure only see pure. I think he read from Titus or something like that but he talked about how when we're pure that we only see/look for the good or pure in everything/everyone else. The deaf couple wasnt there today, but we still pray for them. Today is E. Ipsen's birthday, so we're going down town to go the the Arch and the Zoo, so its going to be really fun, and on top of that, its a great day. The sun is out, and its not to hot or humid!
Mom-yeah, the Bankheads got home Sat (well Pres. Bankhead did. Sis. Bankhead is still out for another week) and we got our mail. Thats crazy to think that Ryan is already home and Jeff isn't too far behind. And I guess now that I think of it, my time is coming much faster than I want.
Dad-I've been hearing alot from Ether 12:27 this week. I guess I should study it again, maybe the Lord is trying to tell me something. It's a great scripture and one that you can never read too many times. I've been reading lately in Enos, Jarom, and Omni and even though they are not very big, they sure are full of great things.
Love you lots and thanks for everything,
Elder Egan
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Busch Stadium and The Cardinals
Its been another great week in Oakville!
Lots of meetings at the begining of the week and then the Cardinals game on Sat, so we weren't able to teach a whole bunch of lessons. It was really fun though. Busch Stadium is really nice and since everyone was there, we had a lot of fun. Then after the game we stayed in the city to see a baptism. It was a great way to end the night, even though the Cardinals lost. It has been a great weekend weather wise too. Then today it started raining again, oh well. We were tracting yesterday and we found a new person to start teaching. He's been Catholic for his whole life but was really open, let us in, and accepted a Book Of Mormon. Then before we could ask for his number he offered it to us! it was really neat. Then on Sunday, two people walked into sacrament. She is deaf and her boyfriend interperts for her. As we were talking with them, we found out that they've been looking into the church for a while on their own. We asked if we could come by and teach them but they said not yet. So hopefully they'll come back next week.
Mom- When does Trevor report to the MTC? Has Tyson already left? Doesn't Jeff get home next month?
Dad-Sounds like your having fun. We'll try to have a baptism for you to report for next month. Thats our goal anyway.
Anyway, we had to work yesterday and only have till 3 today to get everything done.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Lots of meetings at the begining of the week and then the Cardinals game on Sat, so we weren't able to teach a whole bunch of lessons. It was really fun though. Busch Stadium is really nice and since everyone was there, we had a lot of fun. Then after the game we stayed in the city to see a baptism. It was a great way to end the night, even though the Cardinals lost. It has been a great weekend weather wise too. Then today it started raining again, oh well. We were tracting yesterday and we found a new person to start teaching. He's been Catholic for his whole life but was really open, let us in, and accepted a Book Of Mormon. Then before we could ask for his number he offered it to us! it was really neat. Then on Sunday, two people walked into sacrament. She is deaf and her boyfriend interperts for her. As we were talking with them, we found out that they've been looking into the church for a while on their own. We asked if we could come by and teach them but they said not yet. So hopefully they'll come back next week.
Mom- When does Trevor report to the MTC? Has Tyson already left? Doesn't Jeff get home next month?
Dad-Sounds like your having fun. We'll try to have a baptism for you to report for next month. Thats our goal anyway.
Anyway, we had to work yesterday and only have till 3 today to get everything done.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Monday, August 30, 2010
Another Interesting Week
Its been another great week in Oakville!
It was another interesting week anyways. Friday morning we got a called from a ward member and they asked us to help them move some things that evening. I said yes not realizing what I was getting us into. They drove us about 15 min. outside the zone to an office building, where we loaded up two trailers full of stuff, big and heavy stuff. After the first one was full E. Westfall and I jumped back into the truck and drove to the new office and unloaded the truck. Then when the other trailer came (with the two other elders) we unloaded that one as well. there wasn't an elevator so we had to carry everything up two flights of stairs. one of these items was a side by side freezer/fridge. we had it strapped on the dolly and I was pulling from the top (taking it up the stairs) and the other two elders were pushing from the bottom. Well, it came off the dolly and fell on my leg, luckily they got it off quick but it still wasn't very fun. Then later as we were carrying up a really big desk, I tripped going up and the desk fell on me too! By the time we got home it was about 12:30 that night! We were dead.
Then Sat. our ward mission leader calls up and invites us to breakfast (he lives across the street). The thing is, that John Bytheway and his wife were also staying over there. So we ate breakfast with the Bytheways. It was really neat. Then he gave a youth fireside that afternoon. It was great. He had a lot of great insights. some that I really liked were about the Sabbath. He said "Our great grandfathers called it the Holy Sabbath, Our grandfathers called it the Sabbath, our fathers called it Sunday, and we call it the weekend." It really shows how the world views the sabbath day. He also talked about Charity and what it was. He said that Charity is "the love for God, the love from God, and love like God."
Then last night we went over to a couples house to eat with one of our investigators. She is a proffesional pianist and plays for Walt Disney. She asked for a hymn and she made her own arrangment right there on the spot! it was way good!! The lesson went really good too, it was all in all a really fun night and "weekend."
Mom-E. Westfall and I are doing really great. Sometimes we get a little distracted because we'll remember something from the MTC or something, but like i said, we're doing really good. Its going to be a fun transfer. Yeah, he's the one from BYUI. My clothes are fine. Everyone gets those rubber bands in the MTC. I never used mine and gave it away. Depending on the area you do different things. In St. Peters we just did push ups and stuff you can do by yourself. In Chesterfeild we had limited weights to use. In Columbia we had a full bench and a ton of weights, (it helped having two football players living with you). Then at Brent Bankheads, we had a full workout room where we lived downstairs. Now im back to just a few weights and pushups. Exciting stuff.
Dad-the Bankheads are out of town right now, I'll have to get more info on the Egans later. I know they're somewhere in Idaho.
Anyway, I'm trying to read the Book of Mormon this transfer with another couple of elders. I've slowed down though since I've got to Isaiah. I still can't quite get a hold of what he's saying. I'll have to take a class or two on him when I get back.
Have a great week,
Love,
Elder Egan
It was another interesting week anyways. Friday morning we got a called from a ward member and they asked us to help them move some things that evening. I said yes not realizing what I was getting us into. They drove us about 15 min. outside the zone to an office building, where we loaded up two trailers full of stuff, big and heavy stuff. After the first one was full E. Westfall and I jumped back into the truck and drove to the new office and unloaded the truck. Then when the other trailer came (with the two other elders) we unloaded that one as well. there wasn't an elevator so we had to carry everything up two flights of stairs. one of these items was a side by side freezer/fridge. we had it strapped on the dolly and I was pulling from the top (taking it up the stairs) and the other two elders were pushing from the bottom. Well, it came off the dolly and fell on my leg, luckily they got it off quick but it still wasn't very fun. Then later as we were carrying up a really big desk, I tripped going up and the desk fell on me too! By the time we got home it was about 12:30 that night! We were dead.
Then Sat. our ward mission leader calls up and invites us to breakfast (he lives across the street). The thing is, that John Bytheway and his wife were also staying over there. So we ate breakfast with the Bytheways. It was really neat. Then he gave a youth fireside that afternoon. It was great. He had a lot of great insights. some that I really liked were about the Sabbath. He said "Our great grandfathers called it the Holy Sabbath, Our grandfathers called it the Sabbath, our fathers called it Sunday, and we call it the weekend." It really shows how the world views the sabbath day. He also talked about Charity and what it was. He said that Charity is "the love for God, the love from God, and love like God."
Then last night we went over to a couples house to eat with one of our investigators. She is a proffesional pianist and plays for Walt Disney. She asked for a hymn and she made her own arrangment right there on the spot! it was way good!! The lesson went really good too, it was all in all a really fun night and "weekend."
Mom-E. Westfall and I are doing really great. Sometimes we get a little distracted because we'll remember something from the MTC or something, but like i said, we're doing really good. Its going to be a fun transfer. Yeah, he's the one from BYUI. My clothes are fine. Everyone gets those rubber bands in the MTC. I never used mine and gave it away. Depending on the area you do different things. In St. Peters we just did push ups and stuff you can do by yourself. In Chesterfeild we had limited weights to use. In Columbia we had a full bench and a ton of weights, (it helped having two football players living with you). Then at Brent Bankheads, we had a full workout room where we lived downstairs. Now im back to just a few weights and pushups. Exciting stuff.
Dad-the Bankheads are out of town right now, I'll have to get more info on the Egans later. I know they're somewhere in Idaho.
Anyway, I'm trying to read the Book of Mormon this transfer with another couple of elders. I've slowed down though since I've got to Isaiah. I still can't quite get a hold of what he's saying. I'll have to take a class or two on him when I get back.
Have a great week,
Love,
Elder Egan
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