Its been another great week in Columbia!
Its been really crazy though. On Monday we went to our appointment with the Brazilian and his wife. Bro. Egan came along. It went really good. Were going back over today with Bro. Egan and we've been thinking about maybe setting a baptismal date. Only if the Spirit is right obviously. Then on Tuesday we went to a district meeting in Moberly and had a few appointments throughout the evening. Elder Taylor wasn't feeling too well, so we took it kinda easy. Then on Wed. we went to some more district meetings here in Columbia but then Elder Taylor couldn't keep working so we came in. I had some nice studies and learned a lot, but by the end of the day I was ready to get out of there. Thursday we were back out working. We had interviews with Pres. Briggs in the morning. He is such a great man and is really in tune to the Spirit. We are really lucky to have him, even for such a short time. Afterwards we went to help out some other missionaries who were having trouble with his bike, then had appointments for the rest of the evening. We ate dinner with a family who had some of their kids friends over, so after we ate we went into the back and played baseball. It felt great to play, even the little that we did. The weather was perfect for it too, that is until Saturday. We were in the high 60's Thurs and Fri, but on Sat we woke up to a couple inches of snow. It's finally almost gone, but it wasn't fun. Then on Sat. we taught a Korean lady. We took a sister from our ward who is also from Korea ,which helped out a lot.
Mom-yeah, we get the Ensign. Its great everything that's going on. It made my day.
Dad-Sounds like there's alot happening for when I get back, haha. Isn't Gene Moultrie the Patriarch too? Thats fun though. Hey, I talked with Bro. Egan and I'll hopefully be getting that stuff to him tonight, If I remember. Could you also type up my line of authority for me? I have it written out, but it would be nice to have it typed up and if you made it small enough (4x3ish), I could put it in my white handbook along with my ministrial certificate. and if you could take my patriarical blessing and shrink it down for me and send me another copy that'd be great too.
Well anyway, hope all is going good.
Love,
Elder Egan
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Thursday, March 18, 2010
The Gospel Is True
Its been another great week in Columbia!
We had a really great week this past week! On Tuesday we got a media referal for a couple, Moises and Julia. We went to go visit them and taught Moises. He is from Brazil but speaks pretty good English. Then we set up a return appointment with him and his wife. We went back on Thursday and taught them both and watched the Restoration DVD. It went really well. She had some great questions that have to deal with the creation and who "we" and "us" are in the creation story in Genesis. She said that no one has been able to give her a satisfactory answer. We promised that we could and set up another time (today). Bro. Egan is coming with us (he served his mission in Brazil) so that'll be really fun. Then ealier in the week, we were tracting and found another new investigator from Korea. We went over again on Sat and taught her. She has a pretty crazy religious background. She attends the Baptist church, studies the Bible at the Lutheran church, but has a hard time believing in God and Christ, and to top it all off, now she is meeting with us. Problem is though, that she doesn't speak English very well. We think there is a Korean in our ward, so we're going to call her and see if she can come with us this week.
On Thursday we drove to St. Louis for Zone Leader Council (ZLC) on Friday. Its always a great experience and the spirit is always strong there. We stayed over with the McCords (Elder Taylor was one of the first missionaries to live with them) and then went and saw James and MacKenzie (Elder Taylor first got the missionaries in their door and I was one of the ones to see her baptized). It was great to be there and see them still strong in the gospel. She was joking how she will have to drag him into the Celestial Kingdom, haha. Anyway, this transfer is going to be really good. We have three new missionaries to the zone and one straight from the MTC.
Mom-tell Jared hi for me. Yes I got the pants and they were the right ones, thanks. My birthday? When have I ever known what I wanted. Maybe a few ties? or a CD or two (or you could just put it on my ipod. Pres Briggs said they're OK. If you do, I'd need my speakers and some kind of car jack).
Dad-sounds like you've got a lot on your plate. Have fun for me and get some pics. I'll talk to Bro. Egan tonight while he's with us to see what he's got.
Josh-good luck on everything. Sounds like your super activity will be lots of fun.
Anyway, this transfer the mission is working on becoming a divine companionship. Its based off a training from Elder Holland during a mission president seminar. He talks about the ultimate divine companionship of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Then he goes on to say how the Holy Ghost needs to be the Senior companion in our companionships. Its really good and a great thing to work on.
I forgot about this experience that happened.
We went to see an investigator that we have. She wants to be baptized but is living with the father of two of her children. He isn't a very good guy and her and her family are in a poor situation. So, we go over to teach her and she is having a really bad day because of some things that have been going on. Her kids are very undisciplined and unrespectful (the oldest is eight). And on this particuar day there was not a good spirit in the home. We were there for a while trying to help (we did a little) but we left really up tight and contentious. Then we went to our dinner appointment with Sis. Honovi So we go over there (Hollie, Jerry, Grandma Edie, and a nonmember were there too) and right as we come in, Jerry brings us some water. The spirit that was there was so amazing. To see the difference between a home were the spirit is in abundance and a home where it isn't even present, is night and day.
The gospel is true,
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
We had a really great week this past week! On Tuesday we got a media referal for a couple, Moises and Julia. We went to go visit them and taught Moises. He is from Brazil but speaks pretty good English. Then we set up a return appointment with him and his wife. We went back on Thursday and taught them both and watched the Restoration DVD. It went really well. She had some great questions that have to deal with the creation and who "we" and "us" are in the creation story in Genesis. She said that no one has been able to give her a satisfactory answer. We promised that we could and set up another time (today). Bro. Egan is coming with us (he served his mission in Brazil) so that'll be really fun. Then ealier in the week, we were tracting and found another new investigator from Korea. We went over again on Sat and taught her. She has a pretty crazy religious background. She attends the Baptist church, studies the Bible at the Lutheran church, but has a hard time believing in God and Christ, and to top it all off, now she is meeting with us. Problem is though, that she doesn't speak English very well. We think there is a Korean in our ward, so we're going to call her and see if she can come with us this week.
On Thursday we drove to St. Louis for Zone Leader Council (ZLC) on Friday. Its always a great experience and the spirit is always strong there. We stayed over with the McCords (Elder Taylor was one of the first missionaries to live with them) and then went and saw James and MacKenzie (Elder Taylor first got the missionaries in their door and I was one of the ones to see her baptized). It was great to be there and see them still strong in the gospel. She was joking how she will have to drag him into the Celestial Kingdom, haha. Anyway, this transfer is going to be really good. We have three new missionaries to the zone and one straight from the MTC.
Mom-tell Jared hi for me. Yes I got the pants and they were the right ones, thanks. My birthday? When have I ever known what I wanted. Maybe a few ties? or a CD or two (or you could just put it on my ipod. Pres Briggs said they're OK. If you do, I'd need my speakers and some kind of car jack).
Dad-sounds like you've got a lot on your plate. Have fun for me and get some pics. I'll talk to Bro. Egan tonight while he's with us to see what he's got.
Josh-good luck on everything. Sounds like your super activity will be lots of fun.
Anyway, this transfer the mission is working on becoming a divine companionship. Its based off a training from Elder Holland during a mission president seminar. He talks about the ultimate divine companionship of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Then he goes on to say how the Holy Ghost needs to be the Senior companion in our companionships. Its really good and a great thing to work on.
I forgot about this experience that happened.
We went to see an investigator that we have. She wants to be baptized but is living with the father of two of her children. He isn't a very good guy and her and her family are in a poor situation. So, we go over to teach her and she is having a really bad day because of some things that have been going on. Her kids are very undisciplined and unrespectful (the oldest is eight). And on this particuar day there was not a good spirit in the home. We were there for a while trying to help (we did a little) but we left really up tight and contentious. Then we went to our dinner appointment with Sis. Honovi So we go over there (Hollie, Jerry, Grandma Edie, and a nonmember were there too) and right as we come in, Jerry brings us some water. The spirit that was there was so amazing. To see the difference between a home were the spirit is in abundance and a home where it isn't even present, is night and day.
The gospel is true,
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Big Smile on My Face
Its been another great week in Columbia!
Transfers were last night. Elder Taylor and I will be staying together. It will probably be his last transfer here. He's been here going on seven and a half months and he goes home in June. I'm glad he's staying though because I'm not ready to take over quite yet. There are only a few changes happening in the zone. Elder Westfall is going to train again and Elder Lefler is coming to Columbia. He is the only Elder from my MTC district that I haven't served around yet, so I'm pretty excited.
We were on team ups with the Jefferson City Elders this week. We got there for P-Day and left on Tues. But since it's the capital, we took a tour of the capital building. Best part was, is that Pres. Layton (in the mission presidency) works for the Attorney General. The Gov. of Missouri is the old Attorney General and is close to Pres. Layton. So...we got a "VIP" tour. We took the elevator up as high as we could, and walked up a ton of steps. At the top was a really little door. On the other side we realized that we were standing on top of the capital building looking out on the city. It was really neat. Then Pres. Layton took us to his office and the Supreme Court building and took a tour of that. It was a lot of fun and I just had a big smile on my face the whole time, haha.
We've been working with a lady who has gone through a lot in her life. She knows the church is true and wants to be baptized but she is living with her boyfriend. She would have already left but he is the dad of two of her kids. For a long time we were trying to push a separation but it wasn't happening because she would have just gone from one bad situation to another. Then we switched our approach to just having her pray every night with her kids and reading the scriptures, and she has been. Her boyfriend doesnt speak much english and has not been really supportive. But on Sat we were teaching her about temples and he came in at the end and listened for a while. We've also been able to carry on small conversations with him, when before he would barely say hi.
We've also been working with another family. He was excomunicated as a teenager, has a son who is a member, and was just recently remarried. Orignially we were working with him but then we met with his wife this week and she told us how much she loves the church and whatnot. Then she asked "Im not saying I will or anything, but if I would ever want to join your chruch would I have to be rebaptized?" It was amazing. Elder Taylor taught again how the Savior established a church, the apostacy, and restoration. We're seeing them two times a week now to help them out.
Mom-Im still a size 32, despite my eating habits. I also had to buy something from Deseret Book for my scriptures. If anything comes out your way just send it on. It should come to me though.
Dad-I can't believe its already time for conference again. It seems like just yesterday we had it. We can't wait though. It's an amazing opportunity to listen to all the council. While we were in the capital there was a painting of the starting of the Pony Express (since it started out here).
The weather is great out here sunny and warm for the most part. Hope you are having the same.
Love,
Elder Egan
Transfers were last night. Elder Taylor and I will be staying together. It will probably be his last transfer here. He's been here going on seven and a half months and he goes home in June. I'm glad he's staying though because I'm not ready to take over quite yet. There are only a few changes happening in the zone. Elder Westfall is going to train again and Elder Lefler is coming to Columbia. He is the only Elder from my MTC district that I haven't served around yet, so I'm pretty excited.
We were on team ups with the Jefferson City Elders this week. We got there for P-Day and left on Tues. But since it's the capital, we took a tour of the capital building. Best part was, is that Pres. Layton (in the mission presidency) works for the Attorney General. The Gov. of Missouri is the old Attorney General and is close to Pres. Layton. So...we got a "VIP" tour. We took the elevator up as high as we could, and walked up a ton of steps. At the top was a really little door. On the other side we realized that we were standing on top of the capital building looking out on the city. It was really neat. Then Pres. Layton took us to his office and the Supreme Court building and took a tour of that. It was a lot of fun and I just had a big smile on my face the whole time, haha.
We've been working with a lady who has gone through a lot in her life. She knows the church is true and wants to be baptized but she is living with her boyfriend. She would have already left but he is the dad of two of her kids. For a long time we were trying to push a separation but it wasn't happening because she would have just gone from one bad situation to another. Then we switched our approach to just having her pray every night with her kids and reading the scriptures, and she has been. Her boyfriend doesnt speak much english and has not been really supportive. But on Sat we were teaching her about temples and he came in at the end and listened for a while. We've also been able to carry on small conversations with him, when before he would barely say hi.
We've also been working with another family. He was excomunicated as a teenager, has a son who is a member, and was just recently remarried. Orignially we were working with him but then we met with his wife this week and she told us how much she loves the church and whatnot. Then she asked "Im not saying I will or anything, but if I would ever want to join your chruch would I have to be rebaptized?" It was amazing. Elder Taylor taught again how the Savior established a church, the apostacy, and restoration. We're seeing them two times a week now to help them out.
Mom-Im still a size 32, despite my eating habits. I also had to buy something from Deseret Book for my scriptures. If anything comes out your way just send it on. It should come to me though.
Dad-I can't believe its already time for conference again. It seems like just yesterday we had it. We can't wait though. It's an amazing opportunity to listen to all the council. While we were in the capital there was a painting of the starting of the Pony Express (since it started out here).
The weather is great out here sunny and warm for the most part. Hope you are having the same.
Love,
Elder Egan
Friday, March 5, 2010
Time Flies!!
It's been another great week in Columbia!
The baptism went really well. A little scary at first though. We'd forgot to get Jerry a ride to his own baptism, ha ha. We had a really long nite on Friday. We drove to St. Louis to go to the Temple. We did baptisms with some of our recent converts and the youth. Elder Taylor and I were the wittnesses, it was alot of fun and much needed. Our session started late because there was another ward in there, lucky me though because it turned out to be the St. Peters Ward, so I went in and said hi to everyone. It was great to see everyone again.
At Jerry's baptism both his parents came and so did 2 of his friends. We're hoping to start teaching his friends, they live a few houses up, and give his parents phone number to the other Elders.
Sunday was good for me too, except for the fact that we were up at five and didn't go to bed until around one. It was a long day. Other than that it's been a pretty normal week. Transfers are next week, we're not sure what's going to happen. Elder Taylor only has 3 months left and has been a zone leader for 6 months, usually the time to be released, we'll see though.
Mom- Yes I got the package, thanks. Do you think you could send me some new blue suit pants? I wore a hole under the back pocket and I don't think they can be fixed. It's been pretty nice here the past couple days, it was even above 40 for a little bit.
Dad- Sounds like you're staying busy. I haven't been able to talk to Brother Egan much, he's a news reporter and is really busy and on top of that they are changing the ward boundaries and he's changing wards early this month. I'll keep trying though.
Anyway, hope y'all is gonna have a good week.
Love,
Elder Egan
PS I just realized that I've been out 10 months today, wow! Time flies.
The baptism went really well. A little scary at first though. We'd forgot to get Jerry a ride to his own baptism, ha ha. We had a really long nite on Friday. We drove to St. Louis to go to the Temple. We did baptisms with some of our recent converts and the youth. Elder Taylor and I were the wittnesses, it was alot of fun and much needed. Our session started late because there was another ward in there, lucky me though because it turned out to be the St. Peters Ward, so I went in and said hi to everyone. It was great to see everyone again.
At Jerry's baptism both his parents came and so did 2 of his friends. We're hoping to start teaching his friends, they live a few houses up, and give his parents phone number to the other Elders.
Sunday was good for me too, except for the fact that we were up at five and didn't go to bed until around one. It was a long day. Other than that it's been a pretty normal week. Transfers are next week, we're not sure what's going to happen. Elder Taylor only has 3 months left and has been a zone leader for 6 months, usually the time to be released, we'll see though.
Mom- Yes I got the package, thanks. Do you think you could send me some new blue suit pants? I wore a hole under the back pocket and I don't think they can be fixed. It's been pretty nice here the past couple days, it was even above 40 for a little bit.
Dad- Sounds like you're staying busy. I haven't been able to talk to Brother Egan much, he's a news reporter and is really busy and on top of that they are changing the ward boundaries and he's changing wards early this month. I'll keep trying though.
Anyway, hope y'all is gonna have a good week.
Love,
Elder Egan
PS I just realized that I've been out 10 months today, wow! Time flies.
Monday, March 1, 2010
The McCords
This is a picture of the family Jon lived with in his last area....The McCords, and Elder Falkner. I will copy his most recent letter soon, but blogger won't let me copy and paste for some reason, so I'll type it up when I have time:)
Friday, February 26, 2010
Busy Week in Columbia
It's been another great week in Columbia!
We had Zone Conference this week. It was really good. I had to give a training on commitments. It went too long, but it was still alright. Elder Taylor and the assistants also trained. Then afterwards, the assistants came on team up's with us. We were able to find 12 new investigators! The Lord really blessed us this week. We haven't been able to get back in contact with them yet, but we're working on it.
Funny story. We pull up to an appointment with Bro. Tia and were walking to the door, when a car zooms up and two men ran out. They were dressed in shirts and ties, one was even wearing a suit. At first we think that they're members coming to our appointment for some reason. Then one says, looks like we got here first. Turns out that they were Jehovahs Witnesses. Elder Taylor walks up to them and says "I don't think so, lets go in together". We were confident that our appointment would be able to feel the Spirit with us. So we all go knock on the door, but he wasn't home. We had a good conversation with them anyway, though, and left on good terms.
Jerry is doing really well, he had his interview last night and his baptism is this Saturday. We finished up all the lessons and he is just pumped!
When we were at zone conference I asked President Briggs about the mission thing. Turns out that the members who told us, grossly misinterpeted what they read. The Peoria Ill mission is being dissolved and we are just taking one or two of their areas. It's exciting nonetheless.
Mom, yes I got everything. We'll always have 4 of us in this apartment. It's 4 bed and 3 bath. We have 2 study rooms and then our bedrooms.
Dad- sounds like you've been busy, I'm sure the Elders appreciate all the help.
Love,
Elder Egan
We had Zone Conference this week. It was really good. I had to give a training on commitments. It went too long, but it was still alright. Elder Taylor and the assistants also trained. Then afterwards, the assistants came on team up's with us. We were able to find 12 new investigators! The Lord really blessed us this week. We haven't been able to get back in contact with them yet, but we're working on it.
Funny story. We pull up to an appointment with Bro. Tia and were walking to the door, when a car zooms up and two men ran out. They were dressed in shirts and ties, one was even wearing a suit. At first we think that they're members coming to our appointment for some reason. Then one says, looks like we got here first. Turns out that they were Jehovahs Witnesses. Elder Taylor walks up to them and says "I don't think so, lets go in together". We were confident that our appointment would be able to feel the Spirit with us. So we all go knock on the door, but he wasn't home. We had a good conversation with them anyway, though, and left on good terms.
Jerry is doing really well, he had his interview last night and his baptism is this Saturday. We finished up all the lessons and he is just pumped!
When we were at zone conference I asked President Briggs about the mission thing. Turns out that the members who told us, grossly misinterpeted what they read. The Peoria Ill mission is being dissolved and we are just taking one or two of their areas. It's exciting nonetheless.
Mom, yes I got everything. We'll always have 4 of us in this apartment. It's 4 bed and 3 bath. We have 2 study rooms and then our bedrooms.
Dad- sounds like you've been busy, I'm sure the Elders appreciate all the help.
Love,
Elder Egan
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Combining Missions
Its been another great week in Columbia!
The baptism went really well on Sat. On my way into the font though, I slipped on the step and fell the rest of the way in. It was really funny.
In other news the mission is being combined with three others; Omaha Neb, Des Moines Iowa, and the Peoria Ill, missions. We'll probably hear more about it this week at zone conference, but other than that so far we don't know anything else.
I can't remember if I told you but we have another baptism coming up on the 27th with Jerry. We have been teaching him everyday for the past week or so. He is on fire and loves the gospel. We went over this morning and did a puzzle with him for about four hours. It was fun.
We were out of our area about three days this week, teaming up with other Elders to get their areas going. It's been alot of fun seeing different areas.
Mom- No, teaching bobbleheads and anything other than our imaginary investigators got banned. With our updated email, I should be able to send more pics as attachments, so look for them next week, maybe.
Love you all,
Elder Egan
The baptism went really well on Sat. On my way into the font though, I slipped on the step and fell the rest of the way in. It was really funny.
In other news the mission is being combined with three others; Omaha Neb, Des Moines Iowa, and the Peoria Ill, missions. We'll probably hear more about it this week at zone conference, but other than that so far we don't know anything else.
I can't remember if I told you but we have another baptism coming up on the 27th with Jerry. We have been teaching him everyday for the past week or so. He is on fire and loves the gospel. We went over this morning and did a puzzle with him for about four hours. It was fun.
We were out of our area about three days this week, teaming up with other Elders to get their areas going. It's been alot of fun seeing different areas.
Mom- No, teaching bobbleheads and anything other than our imaginary investigators got banned. With our updated email, I should be able to send more pics as attachments, so look for them next week, maybe.
Love you all,
Elder Egan
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Baptism Saturday!!
Its been another great week in Columbia!
So our email has been up dated and so this is my new email adress.
We've been quite busy. This last week we went on team Ups with the Elders in Moberly. It went really well and we were able to help them find a lot of new people. We also set another baptismal date with a man named Jerry. He has come so far. He had already said that he wanted to be baptized before I got there, then we started formally teaching him. The Bishop went and visited last Thursday and Jerry handed him his cigarettes and told him that he couldn't smoke them if he didn't have them. He hasnt touched any since and is really excited for his date on the 27th. We were visiting Hollie this week too, the lady that is getting baptized this Sat, and she asked me how many people I'd baptized, I told her and then she asked me to do it! I was really surprised. She had her interview on Sat. by Pres. Briggs and we're all set.
Dad-yeah, Bro. Egan comes through Richard Erastus. The Egan blood obviously has cowlics (sp?) in it because his little boy has the same ones I do, haha. I'll find out what he has about the Major. I've met Pres. Briggs a few times now. We had a Zone Leader Council at the mission home that we drove down to, we stayed the night at the McCords, and got to know him there and then he came down to interview all the missionaries on Sat. He is here til June when we'll get our "permanent" one. But he told us that if they think that he's only staying til June they're wrong, we'll see, haha.
Mom-yes the blanket is great! Elder Taylor is jealous, haha. We had fun watching people on Sun night too. We have to report numbers for the zone every Sunday night from the insitute building on the University of Missouri campus. We drove through the frats on the way home. fun stuff. Anyway, I've got to get going. Love you lots,
Elder Egan
So our email has been up dated and so this is my new email adress.
We've been quite busy. This last week we went on team Ups with the Elders in Moberly. It went really well and we were able to help them find a lot of new people. We also set another baptismal date with a man named Jerry. He has come so far. He had already said that he wanted to be baptized before I got there, then we started formally teaching him. The Bishop went and visited last Thursday and Jerry handed him his cigarettes and told him that he couldn't smoke them if he didn't have them. He hasnt touched any since and is really excited for his date on the 27th. We were visiting Hollie this week too, the lady that is getting baptized this Sat, and she asked me how many people I'd baptized, I told her and then she asked me to do it! I was really surprised. She had her interview on Sat. by Pres. Briggs and we're all set.
Dad-yeah, Bro. Egan comes through Richard Erastus. The Egan blood obviously has cowlics (sp?) in it because his little boy has the same ones I do, haha. I'll find out what he has about the Major. I've met Pres. Briggs a few times now. We had a Zone Leader Council at the mission home that we drove down to, we stayed the night at the McCords, and got to know him there and then he came down to interview all the missionaries on Sat. He is here til June when we'll get our "permanent" one. But he told us that if they think that he's only staying til June they're wrong, we'll see, haha.
Mom-yes the blanket is great! Elder Taylor is jealous, haha. We had fun watching people on Sun night too. We have to report numbers for the zone every Sunday night from the insitute building on the University of Missouri campus. We drove through the frats on the way home. fun stuff. Anyway, I've got to get going. Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
First Week in Columbia
Its been a great week here in Columbia!!
It is much different than Chesterfield. Columbia is a big college town and everything that entails. For the past week there have been six elders at our place. Two of them live with us and two finally get their apartment today (there was a new area opened up, so we've been trying to find furniture for them). Elder Taylor is from Kennewick, small world eh? He's been out 20 months, so I am learning a lot. The other two elders we live with are Elder Holt and Elder Fuller. Elder Holt has a scholarship to play as BYU's tight end when he gets home (he is about 6' 5" and could snap me in half) and Elder Fuller is from Arizona.
We've been really busy; getting the apartment ready, we had a Zone leader meeting in St. Louis on Sat. and then every Sunday we have to take numbers so we don't get home until past midnight. We have quite a few investigators though. We set a baptismal date my second night out here and we are looking to set at least two more in the next few weeks.
Mom-yes I still have my bike but no I won't use it for a while. For now just send any letters to the mission office, they'll work it out. I serve in just one ward, Smithton Ridge. Its really nice. Turns out that one of the Bishopric members is Bro. Egan, haha. He's related to the Major too, he pronounces it "Egen" though. I'll work on it, haha.
Dad-yeah I got the card from the Sims. Tell them thanks for me. It might be a while before I get another letter out.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
It is much different than Chesterfield. Columbia is a big college town and everything that entails. For the past week there have been six elders at our place. Two of them live with us and two finally get their apartment today (there was a new area opened up, so we've been trying to find furniture for them). Elder Taylor is from Kennewick, small world eh? He's been out 20 months, so I am learning a lot. The other two elders we live with are Elder Holt and Elder Fuller. Elder Holt has a scholarship to play as BYU's tight end when he gets home (he is about 6' 5" and could snap me in half) and Elder Fuller is from Arizona.
We've been really busy; getting the apartment ready, we had a Zone leader meeting in St. Louis on Sat. and then every Sunday we have to take numbers so we don't get home until past midnight. We have quite a few investigators though. We set a baptismal date my second night out here and we are looking to set at least two more in the next few weeks.
Mom-yes I still have my bike but no I won't use it for a while. For now just send any letters to the mission office, they'll work it out. I serve in just one ward, Smithton Ridge. Its really nice. Turns out that one of the Bishopric members is Bro. Egan, haha. He's related to the Major too, he pronounces it "Egen" though. I'll work on it, haha.
Dad-yeah I got the card from the Sims. Tell them thanks for me. It might be a while before I get another letter out.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Monday, January 25, 2010
Last Week in Chesterfield!!
Jon with Makenzie who was baptized last week, and James her husband.
Its been another great week in Chesterfield! It will also be my last. I am being transferred out to Columbia Mo. I'll be serving with an Elder that served in Chesterfield about a year ago, Elder Taylor. I will also be a Zone Leader, so keep me in your prayers (I know that you don't anyways, ha-ha). I hear you can't send mail directly to me because people will steal it. Just send it to the Mission Office. Speaking of which, if anything has been sent there recently, I'll get it on Wed. at transfers.
We found three new investigators this last week. The work as been pretty slow recently but it is finally picking up (just in time for me to get transferred, haha). We started teaching this couple yesterday, Patt and Patrica. After we taught them a first, we found out that his uncle had just passed away. So I told him that we had another message about the answers to life's great questions; Where we came from, Why we're here, and where we're going. And guess what, he has been thinking about these questions, great huh?! So we got another appointment with him later this week. Then while we were at the Singles Branch a guy just walked up to us and said that he wanted the lessons!!
This morning we went to the "Old Court House" it is where Dread Scott was tried (it was a really important supreme court case). It was really neat to be there and get some really neat pics. Then afterwards we went to Mass at the Basilica (one of the biggest cathedrals in the US). It was crazy, but some really neat art on the walls. It took 84 years to build, there are some really neat things in there.
We had one of our investigators at church yesterday. it was the lady that we've done a lot of service for (one of her kids are in jail). She really liked it. Hopefully Elder Falkner will keep it going great with her (I know he will).
We had a special zone conference on Wed. and we got to meet Pres. Briggs. He is really intense and has a great spirit and got us all pumped. He's been in the Dominican Republic for the last three and a half years, so every once in a while he'll speak spanish. He has worked for the missionary dept. for over 40 years though so he knows what he's doing. He was also Pres. Monson's stake president back in the day!
Mom-I'll be sure to vote and I guess I'll try to help you keep your job, haha. When is it officially due?
Dad-That's great news about Adam getting baptized, I'm really happy for them. I've been studying Jacob 5 for that past few days. I'm really trying to understand it and when you really try for it the Lord opens up your understanding and pours inspiration into you. Its a great feeling.
Its been a long and busy week but for some reason the library is really full today and busy (probably because we're later than normal) so I've got to get running.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Its been another great week in Chesterfield! It will also be my last. I am being transferred out to Columbia Mo. I'll be serving with an Elder that served in Chesterfield about a year ago, Elder Taylor. I will also be a Zone Leader, so keep me in your prayers (I know that you don't anyways, ha-ha). I hear you can't send mail directly to me because people will steal it. Just send it to the Mission Office. Speaking of which, if anything has been sent there recently, I'll get it on Wed. at transfers. We found three new investigators this last week. The work as been pretty slow recently but it is finally picking up (just in time for me to get transferred, haha). We started teaching this couple yesterday, Patt and Patrica. After we taught them a first, we found out that his uncle had just passed away. So I told him that we had another message about the answers to life's great questions; Where we came from, Why we're here, and where we're going. And guess what, he has been thinking about these questions, great huh?! So we got another appointment with him later this week. Then while we were at the Singles Branch a guy just walked up to us and said that he wanted the lessons!!
This morning we went to the "Old Court House" it is where Dread Scott was tried (it was a really important supreme court case). It was really neat to be there and get some really neat pics. Then afterwards we went to Mass at the Basilica (one of the biggest cathedrals in the US). It was crazy, but some really neat art on the walls. It took 84 years to build, there are some really neat things in there.
We had one of our investigators at church yesterday. it was the lady that we've done a lot of service for (one of her kids are in jail). She really liked it. Hopefully Elder Falkner will keep it going great with her (I know he will).
We had a special zone conference on Wed. and we got to meet Pres. Briggs. He is really intense and has a great spirit and got us all pumped. He's been in the Dominican Republic for the last three and a half years, so every once in a while he'll speak spanish. He has worked for the missionary dept. for over 40 years though so he knows what he's doing. He was also Pres. Monson's stake president back in the day!
Mom-I'll be sure to vote and I guess I'll try to help you keep your job, haha. When is it officially due?
Dad-That's great news about Adam getting baptized, I'm really happy for them. I've been studying Jacob 5 for that past few days. I'm really trying to understand it and when you really try for it the Lord opens up your understanding and pours inspiration into you. Its a great feeling.
Its been a long and busy week but for some reason the library is really full today and busy (probably because we're later than normal) so I've got to get running.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Thursday, January 21, 2010
The Gospel Does Wonderful Things!
Its been another fantastic week in Chesterfield!! Since yesterday was MLK Day, the library was closed. so your getting a late letter. But most importantly.......MacKenzie got BAPTIZED!!!!!! It was amazing!!!!!! A little stressful at first because right as the service was starting, Elder Nelson cracked the door open and motioned me to come out. Turns out that the spanish elders were having a baptism in another building on the same night but had forgot to get baptismal suits for the lady and there weren't any at that building. I had to grab some suits and stuff them in a bag so they could run in and grab them. In the mean time, they had sung the opening song (I was supposed to be leading the music) and Elder Nelson was supposed to say the prayer (but he was out trying to figure everything out) so I ran in to say it. I was really anxious, So I couldn't really pay attention to the talk. Luckily I was able to calm down enough to feel the spirit for the rest. Elder Falkner and I were the witness'. Her foot came up and so James had to do it again, but we got it that time. Then we had the confirmation on Sunday. It was an amazing experience. The gospel does so many wonderful things.
We were also on team ups with the Zone Leaders. It was good to serve with Elder Nelson again, even only for a few hours. He's a great Elder and person in general.
We got a new investigator. His name is Durrell. He's about 14 or so and a friend of one of the ward members. The lesson went great and his member friend, Conor Black, was great too. Then we had dinner over there and we were able to get to know him more.
Mom-yeah we got our new President. Its Pres. Briggs. He got in Friday night. He actually made it to our baptism, but I didn"t get to meet him because I was talking with some non members and he had to run to the spanish baptism soon after. But we are having a Zone conference tomorrow to meet him and ask him questions. 3 wards eh...sounds a lot like my normal sunday. It can definitely be tiring but you get to hear lots of good talks.
Josh-Good job at DECA. I can"t believe that all my wonderful cars are gone. What's up with that?
Anyway, have a good week.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
We were also on team ups with the Zone Leaders. It was good to serve with Elder Nelson again, even only for a few hours. He's a great Elder and person in general.
We got a new investigator. His name is Durrell. He's about 14 or so and a friend of one of the ward members. The lesson went great and his member friend, Conor Black, was great too. Then we had dinner over there and we were able to get to know him more.
Mom-yeah we got our new President. Its Pres. Briggs. He got in Friday night. He actually made it to our baptism, but I didn"t get to meet him because I was talking with some non members and he had to run to the spanish baptism soon after. But we are having a Zone conference tomorrow to meet him and ask him questions. 3 wards eh...sounds a lot like my normal sunday. It can definitely be tiring but you get to hear lots of good talks.
Josh-Good job at DECA. I can"t believe that all my wonderful cars are gone. What's up with that?
Anyway, have a good week.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Elder Falkner and "Dwight"
We received some new pictures from Elder Egan that we will be sharing from time to time.....ENJOY!!
Here he is with his new "greenie" companion, Elder Falkner. This was just before Christmas and before all the freezing temperatures hit.
Apparently, the Elders have a friend named "Dwight" who they practice teaching to. Dwight is the "best" listener:) I like Jon's hair, though he's cut it since then:)
Here he is with his new "greenie" companion, Elder Falkner. This was just before Christmas and before all the freezing temperatures hit.
Apparently, the Elders have a friend named "Dwight" who they practice teaching to. Dwight is the "best" listener:) I like Jon's hair, though he's cut it since then:)
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
BRRRRRRR............
Its been another great week in Chesterfield!
Yes, its been really cold out here but we are staying warm (for the most part). When its this cold you don't care as much what it looks like you just want to be warm but hopefully the worst is over.
We went over to MacKenzie's last night and finalized the plans for the baptism. Everything is on track and we are really excited.
So we were at dinner the other night (it was delicious, Eggs benedict/sausage/waffles/etc.) and we were just finishing up before dessert and there is a knock at the door. The neighbors had just backed into our car. so I went outside looked at it and filled out the church's paper work for that kind of stuff (It made us miss one of our appointments with james and mackenzie). We called Elder Grossarth to make sure we did everything right, we had, and then finished up at dinner. So today we have to take it in and get an estimate. Its not really bad at all but since we already told Elder Grossarth we'd take it in, we will. The people that hit us were nice about it too.
Mom-its really funny you said that about the frostbite. we were at the distribution center the other day and that's exactly what the lady there said. The package was great. Thanks a lot!!
Dad-Yeah, I put our investigators names in the temple every time I go. More prayers never hurt.
Could you ask the Elders there about Elder Ballard Contacts (EBC's). If they know what they are could you ask them when Elder Ballard talked about it and get me a reference.
Then if you could write me this week and let me know (if you see them sometime this week that is, if not just email it to me).
mucho gracias,
Josh-Good luck in DECA. If Mrs. McMaster is still there, drop in and tell her hi for me (and tell her Mitt Romney is looking better every day, hehe).
Anyway love you all,
Elder Egan
Oh yeah, yes we get our new Mission President this week. Maybe even today.
Yes, its been really cold out here but we are staying warm (for the most part). When its this cold you don't care as much what it looks like you just want to be warm but hopefully the worst is over.
We went over to MacKenzie's last night and finalized the plans for the baptism. Everything is on track and we are really excited.
So we were at dinner the other night (it was delicious, Eggs benedict/sausage/waffles/etc.) and we were just finishing up before dessert and there is a knock at the door. The neighbors had just backed into our car. so I went outside looked at it and filled out the church's paper work for that kind of stuff (It made us miss one of our appointments with james and mackenzie). We called Elder Grossarth to make sure we did everything right, we had, and then finished up at dinner. So today we have to take it in and get an estimate. Its not really bad at all but since we already told Elder Grossarth we'd take it in, we will. The people that hit us were nice about it too.
Mom-its really funny you said that about the frostbite. we were at the distribution center the other day and that's exactly what the lady there said. The package was great. Thanks a lot!!
Dad-Yeah, I put our investigators names in the temple every time I go. More prayers never hurt.
Could you ask the Elders there about Elder Ballard Contacts (EBC's). If they know what they are could you ask them when Elder Ballard talked about it and get me a reference.
Then if you could write me this week and let me know (if you see them sometime this week that is, if not just email it to me).
mucho gracias,
Josh-Good luck in DECA. If Mrs. McMaster is still there, drop in and tell her hi for me (and tell her Mitt Romney is looking better every day, hehe).
Anyway love you all,
Elder Egan
Oh yeah, yes we get our new Mission President this week. Maybe even today.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
The Warmth of then Gospel Can Warm Even the Coldest Heart
Its been another great week in Chesterfield! (Besides the fact that I'm probably the only missionary whose family forgets about them...haha)
We've been really busy this week. Lots of tracting and finding. We haven't found any one yet but we have been able to teach a lot of people.
With the new year the units that we cover all changed times. Last year the two wards met at the beginning and end of the day with the branch in the middle. Like that, we were able to go to both wards and the meetings in the branch. Now, the wards are at 9 and 11 with the branch at 1. So after our morning meetings, we have to split up to make sure that there are missionaries in each ward. I enjoyed being able to go to church twice last year and get to see everyone, but this years schedule is good too and we'll make it work.
We met with MacKenzie last night. I cant say it enough, but they have changed so much. The baptism is just about all planned out and ready to go on the 16th. It has been a long, long, long time coming but worth every minute of it. And on top of that we are going to try to teach one of their friends (They rent three rooms in their house and this friend is one of the renters). He has already sat in on some of the lessons and came to church once (it just happened to be one of the weeks that Elder Payne was sick, so we weren't there). But we're really excited for him.
I almost forgot. On Saturday we went over to an investigators house to do some service. In order to understand what we were doing I'll have to give some background. This lady raised four boys on her own after her husband left. Her youngest one killed him self and another one does heroine. She also has had just about every type of heart surgery just short of a transplant. She's had multiple bypasses, a pig valve put in, and multiple stints. As you can guess she was in the hospital for a couple months at a time. While she was in the hospital, her son that does drugs stole all her money and broke into her house destroying the basement. Now her son is in jail but the basement and everything is a mess. We went over on Sat. thinking that we were just going to replace a few light bulbs. We were wrong. We started cleaning up the basement. It is sad and hard to believe how people can live in such a place and why they would live like that. We took out a few mattresses that were filthy and threw out a bunch of old clothes. Next week we're going over to paint over all the filth that had been written on the walls. What is even harder to understand is that next to all this "filth" there is a shrine to the Lord and the Virgin Mary. I don't understand. We are excited to help her get her life back in order and clean this place up.
Mom-Yes it is freezing out here. the sooner you send out more thermals the better, and maybe some warm socks would be nice. Oh, and maybe another blanket. What's grandmas new address? We are going to do a bunch of much needed cleaning too. Maybe you'd get more pics if I wasn't forgotten...haha. And if your thinking I'm going to ever forgive you of this...maybe, haha.
Dad-Elder Falkner is doing great. Its almost like I'm not even training him. Our teaching pool is getting smaller and smaller but that's alright, we're doing all that we can. Yes, MacKenzie's baptism is in this transfer so I'll get to see it as long as I'm not emergency transferred out, I don't see that happening though. She asked us last night if we would say the prayers and be the witnesses. We are really excited!
Anyways, even in the cold, the warmth of the gospel can warm even the coldest heart.
I love you lots,
Elder Egan
We've been really busy this week. Lots of tracting and finding. We haven't found any one yet but we have been able to teach a lot of people.
With the new year the units that we cover all changed times. Last year the two wards met at the beginning and end of the day with the branch in the middle. Like that, we were able to go to both wards and the meetings in the branch. Now, the wards are at 9 and 11 with the branch at 1. So after our morning meetings, we have to split up to make sure that there are missionaries in each ward. I enjoyed being able to go to church twice last year and get to see everyone, but this years schedule is good too and we'll make it work.
We met with MacKenzie last night. I cant say it enough, but they have changed so much. The baptism is just about all planned out and ready to go on the 16th. It has been a long, long, long time coming but worth every minute of it. And on top of that we are going to try to teach one of their friends (They rent three rooms in their house and this friend is one of the renters). He has already sat in on some of the lessons and came to church once (it just happened to be one of the weeks that Elder Payne was sick, so we weren't there). But we're really excited for him.
I almost forgot. On Saturday we went over to an investigators house to do some service. In order to understand what we were doing I'll have to give some background. This lady raised four boys on her own after her husband left. Her youngest one killed him self and another one does heroine. She also has had just about every type of heart surgery just short of a transplant. She's had multiple bypasses, a pig valve put in, and multiple stints. As you can guess she was in the hospital for a couple months at a time. While she was in the hospital, her son that does drugs stole all her money and broke into her house destroying the basement. Now her son is in jail but the basement and everything is a mess. We went over on Sat. thinking that we were just going to replace a few light bulbs. We were wrong. We started cleaning up the basement. It is sad and hard to believe how people can live in such a place and why they would live like that. We took out a few mattresses that were filthy and threw out a bunch of old clothes. Next week we're going over to paint over all the filth that had been written on the walls. What is even harder to understand is that next to all this "filth" there is a shrine to the Lord and the Virgin Mary. I don't understand. We are excited to help her get her life back in order and clean this place up.
Mom-Yes it is freezing out here. the sooner you send out more thermals the better, and maybe some warm socks would be nice. Oh, and maybe another blanket. What's grandmas new address? We are going to do a bunch of much needed cleaning too. Maybe you'd get more pics if I wasn't forgotten...haha. And if your thinking I'm going to ever forgive you of this...maybe, haha.
Dad-Elder Falkner is doing great. Its almost like I'm not even training him. Our teaching pool is getting smaller and smaller but that's alright, we're doing all that we can. Yes, MacKenzie's baptism is in this transfer so I'll get to see it as long as I'm not emergency transferred out, I don't see that happening though. She asked us last night if we would say the prayers and be the witnesses. We are really excited!
Anyways, even in the cold, the warmth of the gospel can warm even the coldest heart.
I love you lots,
Elder Egan
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Is it Ho Ho or Ha Ha??
Dear Family and Friends,
We had a great visit with Jon on Christmas Day, in spite of the fact that I accidently hung up on him as I was taking it off of loudspeaker. He told me I'm probably the only mom who hung up on her missionary! They were having a white Christmas, but nothing like the Arctic Blast 2008 which we had last Christmas here at home.
I was curious to know how many ties he has....for those of you who don't know.... Jon LOVES ties:) I sent him a tie hanger and he said his ties filled it up plus 2. That means he has 26 ties. I asked him if he burned a tie at his 6 month mark and he said no...but some Elders do. (he just didn't want to part with any)
He's gained about 15 pounds.....but he did fit into the pants we sent him for Christmas.
We woke up on Monday morning and realized right away that we had all forgotten to write him his weekly emails....We ran down to the computer and quickly pulled it up (it took FOREVER for the computer to boot up)...only to see that he had sent only a sad face for his weekly letter. Talk about being mortified!! I couldn't believe we had done that to our one and only missionary. I quickly sent off a reply on the chance he was still there....only to have another sad face pop up. We wrote him anyway...the fastest letters we have ever written on chance that he would check it one last time. This was his reply. You can imagine the relief we felt at knowing he KNEW we loved him and hadn't completely forgotten him!
Subject: haha
Date: Mon, 28 Dec 2009 12:02:52 -0600
Its been another great week in chesterfield!
I was just getting off but decided to check one last time :)
On Christmas we went to Bishop Blair's in the Chesterfield ward and had breakfast and played games. Then we went to the Blacks. It was a lot of fun. Our appointment with MacKenzie went really well. We pushed back her baptism till the 16th. We feel much better about this and its their date, not ours. Its great.
Well, got to get headed out.
Love ya lots,
Elder Egan
We had a great visit with Jon on Christmas Day, in spite of the fact that I accidently hung up on him as I was taking it off of loudspeaker. He told me I'm probably the only mom who hung up on her missionary! They were having a white Christmas, but nothing like the Arctic Blast 2008 which we had last Christmas here at home.
I was curious to know how many ties he has....for those of you who don't know.... Jon LOVES ties:) I sent him a tie hanger and he said his ties filled it up plus 2. That means he has 26 ties. I asked him if he burned a tie at his 6 month mark and he said no...but some Elders do. (he just didn't want to part with any)
He's gained about 15 pounds.....but he did fit into the pants we sent him for Christmas.
We woke up on Monday morning and realized right away that we had all forgotten to write him his weekly emails....We ran down to the computer and quickly pulled it up (it took FOREVER for the computer to boot up)...only to see that he had sent only a sad face for his weekly letter. Talk about being mortified!! I couldn't believe we had done that to our one and only missionary. I quickly sent off a reply on the chance he was still there....only to have another sad face pop up. We wrote him anyway...the fastest letters we have ever written on chance that he would check it one last time. This was his reply. You can imagine the relief we felt at knowing he KNEW we loved him and hadn't completely forgotten him!
Subject: haha
Date: Mon, 28 Dec 2009 12:02:52 -0600
Its been another great week in chesterfield!
I was just getting off but decided to check one last time :)
On Christmas we went to Bishop Blair's in the Chesterfield ward and had breakfast and played games. Then we went to the Blacks. It was a lot of fun. Our appointment with MacKenzie went really well. We pushed back her baptism till the 16th. We feel much better about this and its their date, not ours. Its great.
Well, got to get headed out.
Love ya lots,
Elder Egan
Friday, December 18, 2009
Merry Christmas From St. Louis
Here is the Christmas card we recieved from Jon. It looks a bit funny because of the way it scanned....but you get the drift. We love it!!Monday, December 14, 2009
SO....Story Time
Its been another great week in Chesterfield!
So...story time.
Elder Payne gets here on the evening of Nov. 28th. That night we only have a little time to stop by some people. Then the next day, sunday, our days are always busy, filled with church and appointments. Then Monday the 30th was P-Day, so we only got a few lessons in. On Tues, the 1st, we had a special zone conference at the temple. there were two zones there with the Turleys (the last time we would see them before they left on the 5th). It was awesome to be there with them! Then we come home and I run to the bathroom real quick before we head out again. I come out and Elder Payne is really pale and is taking off his tie. He looks at me and says "Elder, Im done." He then goes to sleep. I study and do whatever to keep me busy the rest of the day. He doesn't wake up for about 25 hours! So we know that he's pretty sick now. Luckily, Sis. McCord is an RN, so we had her keep her eye on him. Then on Sat it wasnt getting any better so we call a man in one of our wards who is a doc. He comes over and takes a look at him. Turns out he had the Swine Flu. Fun Stuff. So, thats where I've been for the past two weeks, in a basement with a sick comp. I was able to get by with out catching it. Elder Payne said that it felt like death. It knocked him out hard. So for the past two weeks we taught no more than 3 lessons. It felt great to be back out working the other day. The effects of the illness are still present though. Elder Payne still has a hard time breathing and tires easily, but we're out now.
Since I got so much study time I was able to read a bunch of the Book of Mormon, from Mosiah 1 to 3 Nephi 23. You learn so much more when you read it quickly, especially those parts. It reinforced to me the great love and mercy that the Lord has for us, even when we make mistakes.
Transfer calls came last night. I will be staying here and training again. I feel much more prepared this time about training a new missionary. I'm still really nervous and scared but not nearly as much as last time. I just know how much Elder Reese taught me and I want to give this Elder the same. I just have to keep remembering that whom the Lord calls He qualifies. It will be a huge first day in the field if everything goes according to plan. We will finally be seeing MacKenzie that night and setting a baptismal date! What a way to spend your first night! Im really excited for it. We've done alot of praying and she is ready.
Mom-I got one of the packages (the one with the little tree. Its great!) and if the other one is at the office I'll get it on Wed at transfers. The McCords let us put a fake tree up down stairs with lights. So we've got the big one in the corner by the door and the little one on my desk. It looks good.
Dad-there was a missionary that had extended his mission. Extentions are only for a month and once its up they kick you out. It just so happens that our transfers are a month and a half, so he was leaving mid transfer. Elder Ferrin went up there to be with his companion and so I got Elder Payne. This is Elder Paynes 3rd area this transfer!! He just keeps getting moved around. He didnt even unpack when he got here, good thing too. Thats really neat about Pres. Turleys cousin.
It snowed the other day. Nothing big just some flakes. People are saying its going to be a rough winter. We'll see.
Love you lots. Elder Egan
So...story time.
Elder Payne gets here on the evening of Nov. 28th. That night we only have a little time to stop by some people. Then the next day, sunday, our days are always busy, filled with church and appointments. Then Monday the 30th was P-Day, so we only got a few lessons in. On Tues, the 1st, we had a special zone conference at the temple. there were two zones there with the Turleys (the last time we would see them before they left on the 5th). It was awesome to be there with them! Then we come home and I run to the bathroom real quick before we head out again. I come out and Elder Payne is really pale and is taking off his tie. He looks at me and says "Elder, Im done." He then goes to sleep. I study and do whatever to keep me busy the rest of the day. He doesn't wake up for about 25 hours! So we know that he's pretty sick now. Luckily, Sis. McCord is an RN, so we had her keep her eye on him. Then on Sat it wasnt getting any better so we call a man in one of our wards who is a doc. He comes over and takes a look at him. Turns out he had the Swine Flu. Fun Stuff. So, thats where I've been for the past two weeks, in a basement with a sick comp. I was able to get by with out catching it. Elder Payne said that it felt like death. It knocked him out hard. So for the past two weeks we taught no more than 3 lessons. It felt great to be back out working the other day. The effects of the illness are still present though. Elder Payne still has a hard time breathing and tires easily, but we're out now.
Since I got so much study time I was able to read a bunch of the Book of Mormon, from Mosiah 1 to 3 Nephi 23. You learn so much more when you read it quickly, especially those parts. It reinforced to me the great love and mercy that the Lord has for us, even when we make mistakes.
Transfer calls came last night. I will be staying here and training again. I feel much more prepared this time about training a new missionary. I'm still really nervous and scared but not nearly as much as last time. I just know how much Elder Reese taught me and I want to give this Elder the same. I just have to keep remembering that whom the Lord calls He qualifies. It will be a huge first day in the field if everything goes according to plan. We will finally be seeing MacKenzie that night and setting a baptismal date! What a way to spend your first night! Im really excited for it. We've done alot of praying and she is ready.
Mom-I got one of the packages (the one with the little tree. Its great!) and if the other one is at the office I'll get it on Wed at transfers. The McCords let us put a fake tree up down stairs with lights. So we've got the big one in the corner by the door and the little one on my desk. It looks good.
Dad-there was a missionary that had extended his mission. Extentions are only for a month and once its up they kick you out. It just so happens that our transfers are a month and a half, so he was leaving mid transfer. Elder Ferrin went up there to be with his companion and so I got Elder Payne. This is Elder Paynes 3rd area this transfer!! He just keeps getting moved around. He didnt even unpack when he got here, good thing too. Thats really neat about Pres. Turleys cousin.
It snowed the other day. Nothing big just some flakes. People are saying its going to be a rough winter. We'll see.
Love you lots. Elder Egan
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Crazy Week
Its been another great week in Chesterfield! "Great" could also be replaced with long, busy, crazy, etc...
We had Zone Conference on Tuesday. It was really good, Pres. Turley wasn't there though. After Sis. Turley's training she told us that President and her were being released. They go home this Sat. It took everyone by surprise. We were all shocked. Elder and Sis. Grossarth, a senior couple, have been called to fill in as Mission President for the month of December and then a new President will be coming on Jan. 11th. He will then fill out the rest of Pres. Turley's term till Jun and then we will get yet another Mission President. So, when all is said and done I will have had four mission presidents!!! I didn't think that I'd be able to see Pres. Turley again because he wasn't at zone conference and he wasn't sure if he'd be able to make it to the special zone conference tomorrow. BUT after our zone conference last week the Assistants pulled me and Elder Ferrin into a room to tell us something. Turns out that Elder Ferrin was being Emergency Transferred up to Columbia and I was getting yet another companion!!! So anyway, we finish out our day without much more excitement.
Then on Thanksgiving we played in the turkey bowl. it was freezing cold. I was wearing shorts and a short sleeve and it was 40 degrees! (if you could send out a sweatshirt for when I'm not in a shirt and tie, that'd be nice). But it was really fun. We had two dinner appointments and played some games with the members. Then we came home so Elder Ferrin could pack. the Assistants were coming to pick him up at 6:30 so we had to be up really early. Elder Ferrin didn't finish packing until about 1:30am so it was a long night and early morning. Then the Zone Leaders came and picked me up so I would be with them. We tried contacting at Wal Mart and other stores but there were so many police out that we couldn't. Then we went into the ZL's area and worked all day Thursday and Fri (it was great to serve with Elder Nelson again). After dinner we met up with the Assistants at the Mission Home where I got my new comp. Elder Payne. He's from Alberta Canada and has been out 14 months. I also got to see Pres. and Sis. Turley. He looks so tired and worn down, but it was great to see him. His been bored out of his mind just sitting in the mission home. He was glad to have company over, even for just a short time.
Then yesterday as you can imagine was really long. I spoke in Chesterfields Sacrament meeting but fell asleep during most of Parkways meetings. Then we were out doing stop bys and came home at 8 thinking it was 9. When we walked in Bro. McCord asked if we were taking a "half day." I had no idea what he was talking about until I saw the clock behind him and realized that we had come in an hour early. So we turned around and visited a few more people. It was really funny. We were both just so tired that neither one of us caught it.
Mom-I don't need a calling card. we just call from our cell phones (unless that counts as long distance, i don't think that it does) but if not you can send it out nonetheless. Sorry, no pics yet, its been a crazy week and I forgot.
Dad-Our festival of nativities is this weekend too. Its a great event to invite people out to and really easy. We're looking forward to it.
Josh-what the heck do you think your doing?!?! your getting way to tall and grown up. That's not alright. If you're not careful I'll be just as big around as you are tall, haha. not really.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
We had Zone Conference on Tuesday. It was really good, Pres. Turley wasn't there though. After Sis. Turley's training she told us that President and her were being released. They go home this Sat. It took everyone by surprise. We were all shocked. Elder and Sis. Grossarth, a senior couple, have been called to fill in as Mission President for the month of December and then a new President will be coming on Jan. 11th. He will then fill out the rest of Pres. Turley's term till Jun and then we will get yet another Mission President. So, when all is said and done I will have had four mission presidents!!! I didn't think that I'd be able to see Pres. Turley again because he wasn't at zone conference and he wasn't sure if he'd be able to make it to the special zone conference tomorrow. BUT after our zone conference last week the Assistants pulled me and Elder Ferrin into a room to tell us something. Turns out that Elder Ferrin was being Emergency Transferred up to Columbia and I was getting yet another companion!!! So anyway, we finish out our day without much more excitement.
Then on Thanksgiving we played in the turkey bowl. it was freezing cold. I was wearing shorts and a short sleeve and it was 40 degrees! (if you could send out a sweatshirt for when I'm not in a shirt and tie, that'd be nice). But it was really fun. We had two dinner appointments and played some games with the members. Then we came home so Elder Ferrin could pack. the Assistants were coming to pick him up at 6:30 so we had to be up really early. Elder Ferrin didn't finish packing until about 1:30am so it was a long night and early morning. Then the Zone Leaders came and picked me up so I would be with them. We tried contacting at Wal Mart and other stores but there were so many police out that we couldn't. Then we went into the ZL's area and worked all day Thursday and Fri (it was great to serve with Elder Nelson again). After dinner we met up with the Assistants at the Mission Home where I got my new comp. Elder Payne. He's from Alberta Canada and has been out 14 months. I also got to see Pres. and Sis. Turley. He looks so tired and worn down, but it was great to see him. His been bored out of his mind just sitting in the mission home. He was glad to have company over, even for just a short time.
Then yesterday as you can imagine was really long. I spoke in Chesterfields Sacrament meeting but fell asleep during most of Parkways meetings. Then we were out doing stop bys and came home at 8 thinking it was 9. When we walked in Bro. McCord asked if we were taking a "half day." I had no idea what he was talking about until I saw the clock behind him and realized that we had come in an hour early. So we turned around and visited a few more people. It was really funny. We were both just so tired that neither one of us caught it.
Mom-I don't need a calling card. we just call from our cell phones (unless that counts as long distance, i don't think that it does) but if not you can send it out nonetheless. Sorry, no pics yet, its been a crazy week and I forgot.
Dad-Our festival of nativities is this weekend too. Its a great event to invite people out to and really easy. We're looking forward to it.
Josh-what the heck do you think your doing?!?! your getting way to tall and grown up. That's not alright. If you're not careful I'll be just as big around as you are tall, haha. not really.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Monday Moment
Its been another great week in Chesterfield!
The weather has been great the past few days. Sunny and warm in the days but then it gets pretty cold in the evening. It doesn't help that it get dark at five. Speaking of getting dark early, the ward got a letter from a retirement center. It said that some LDS missionaries had contacted a lady in the parking lot one evening. They didn't know who it was so they sent letters to the wards in the area and then to Salt Lake!
Other than that it was a slow week. Lots of things came up that were unexpected and kept us from working as much as we wanted, but yesterday was amazing and made up for it. We are planning on setting a baptismal date with MacKenzie this week and wanted her husband, James, to do it. He has only just recently been reactivated but hasn't taken the sacrament in about 15 years. And we have been working with him and the bishop, so that he would feel comfortable and worthy to do so. After I took the bread yesterday I looked back just in time to see him do the same. It was the greatest feeling in the world. They have both changed so much and confirmed our thoughts about setting the date with MacKenzie. I'll let you know when it is next week!
We have two dinner appointments for thanksgiving and we had to start declining invitations, otherwise I'd be huge(er), haha. But seriously, I could use some new black and blue pants, not for my suits but for normal use. My black ones got ripped up in St. Peters from my bike and the blue ones are tight (the brand must run small or something, haha).
This week is Zone Conference. I'm really looking forward to it. They are always great. Then next week the zone is going to the Temple with the Turleys. We can't wait, but I guess we'll have too.
Dad-Elder Ferrin and I get along great. I've been blessed with really good companions so far. The district is basically the same. We got a new sister and Elder Nelson took the place of one of the Zone Leaders, but other than that we're the same.
Love you,
Elder Egan
The weather has been great the past few days. Sunny and warm in the days but then it gets pretty cold in the evening. It doesn't help that it get dark at five. Speaking of getting dark early, the ward got a letter from a retirement center. It said that some LDS missionaries had contacted a lady in the parking lot one evening. They didn't know who it was so they sent letters to the wards in the area and then to Salt Lake!
Other than that it was a slow week. Lots of things came up that were unexpected and kept us from working as much as we wanted, but yesterday was amazing and made up for it. We are planning on setting a baptismal date with MacKenzie this week and wanted her husband, James, to do it. He has only just recently been reactivated but hasn't taken the sacrament in about 15 years. And we have been working with him and the bishop, so that he would feel comfortable and worthy to do so. After I took the bread yesterday I looked back just in time to see him do the same. It was the greatest feeling in the world. They have both changed so much and confirmed our thoughts about setting the date with MacKenzie. I'll let you know when it is next week!
We have two dinner appointments for thanksgiving and we had to start declining invitations, otherwise I'd be huge(er), haha. But seriously, I could use some new black and blue pants, not for my suits but for normal use. My black ones got ripped up in St. Peters from my bike and the blue ones are tight (the brand must run small or something, haha).
This week is Zone Conference. I'm really looking forward to it. They are always great. Then next week the zone is going to the Temple with the Turleys. We can't wait, but I guess we'll have too.
Dad-Elder Ferrin and I get along great. I've been blessed with really good companions so far. The district is basically the same. We got a new sister and Elder Nelson took the place of one of the Zone Leaders, but other than that we're the same.
Love you,
Elder Egan
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Open Our Mouths!!
It has been another great week in Chesterfield!
Not much happened this week, well nothing that really stands out. We've been tracting a lot and it doesn't help that it gets dark around 5. We've been threatened to have the police called on us numerous times since the time change. If people only knew the message that they were rejecting...oh well. maybe next time.
We had a really good day yesterday. It was the primary program in the Parkway ward. This week we've been focusing on the Plan of Salvation in our companion studies, trying to teach it simply. Then the primary sung a song about it. It hit us just how simple it really is. Then we had a really good lesson in Elders Quorum. Afterwards we went home teaching with bro. McCord and then had dinner with them after. We stopped by some recent converts, the Colombos. She is going in for surgery today and we gave her a blessing. It really helped them feel the spirit (which is really needed. they haven't been to church for a few months now). It was just really good. Then we went over to James and MacKenzie's. We read a little out of 3 Ne 11 and then watched the Testaments. That helped out way more than we ever imagined it would've. Elder Ferrin gained their trust and they were both hit with a spiritual hammer. And despite the rain, there couldn't have been more "sunshine in our souls" that night. It was great.
We lost our dinner calendar after the Chesterfield ward. Luckily, I, for some reason, wrote down all of our appointments for the rest of the month. We just won't have any additions till we find it. We think that someone accidentally took it home. Oh well.
The weather is starting to change. its cold and wet now, and we heard that there is supposed to be a rain/snow mix tomorrow, we'll see.
Mom-Setting an example is great. When we knock on someone's door and they know a member, it's automatically a good door and they are nice to us. HOWEVER, its not enough to only set a good example. If we don't OPEN OUR MOUTHS we will not receive the promised blessings that the Lord has promised us. It always gets me when we ask members what they are doing to further the work and all they say is "setting a good example." Once again, it is good to do that, but it shows the Lord that we are lazy and ashamed of the gospel of Christ. (now that I've finished my rant and have gotten off my soap box...)
Don't worry about the CD's. We don't have that rule, or at least I've never heard of it, so your OK. My contacts are good. You know me. I might change them twice out here, ha ha. Christmas? I don't know. Maybe some ties or something. Maybe some kind of tie hanger? Whatever though. Yeah, we had trunk or treat in both wards. We just visited with the members in Chesterfields but we decorated a room (it was raining outside so they did it in the church) for Parkways. It was a lot of fun.
Dad-Elder Ferrin is from Thousand Oaks, California. He's been out a transfer less then me. We were actually just talking about the temple this morning and how great it is and how much we'd like to go more often, but our time is needed elsewhere for the present time. President Turley is doing good. He's up and about. We talked to Sis. Turley last night and she said that he is really bored, ha ha. Our stake out here also does a nativity thing. I don't think its quite that big, but large nonetheless. Its a great thing for both members and nonmembers alike.
Remember that Christ will never forget us, we are on His hands and His feet. He will always look for opportunities to bless us. We can only receive these blessings though if we are obedient to His commandments.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
Not much happened this week, well nothing that really stands out. We've been tracting a lot and it doesn't help that it gets dark around 5. We've been threatened to have the police called on us numerous times since the time change. If people only knew the message that they were rejecting...oh well. maybe next time.
We had a really good day yesterday. It was the primary program in the Parkway ward. This week we've been focusing on the Plan of Salvation in our companion studies, trying to teach it simply. Then the primary sung a song about it. It hit us just how simple it really is. Then we had a really good lesson in Elders Quorum. Afterwards we went home teaching with bro. McCord and then had dinner with them after. We stopped by some recent converts, the Colombos. She is going in for surgery today and we gave her a blessing. It really helped them feel the spirit (which is really needed. they haven't been to church for a few months now). It was just really good. Then we went over to James and MacKenzie's. We read a little out of 3 Ne 11 and then watched the Testaments. That helped out way more than we ever imagined it would've. Elder Ferrin gained their trust and they were both hit with a spiritual hammer. And despite the rain, there couldn't have been more "sunshine in our souls" that night. It was great.
We lost our dinner calendar after the Chesterfield ward. Luckily, I, for some reason, wrote down all of our appointments for the rest of the month. We just won't have any additions till we find it. We think that someone accidentally took it home. Oh well.
The weather is starting to change. its cold and wet now, and we heard that there is supposed to be a rain/snow mix tomorrow, we'll see.
Mom-Setting an example is great. When we knock on someone's door and they know a member, it's automatically a good door and they are nice to us. HOWEVER, its not enough to only set a good example. If we don't OPEN OUR MOUTHS we will not receive the promised blessings that the Lord has promised us. It always gets me when we ask members what they are doing to further the work and all they say is "setting a good example." Once again, it is good to do that, but it shows the Lord that we are lazy and ashamed of the gospel of Christ. (now that I've finished my rant and have gotten off my soap box...)
Don't worry about the CD's. We don't have that rule, or at least I've never heard of it, so your OK. My contacts are good. You know me. I might change them twice out here, ha ha. Christmas? I don't know. Maybe some ties or something. Maybe some kind of tie hanger? Whatever though. Yeah, we had trunk or treat in both wards. We just visited with the members in Chesterfields but we decorated a room (it was raining outside so they did it in the church) for Parkways. It was a lot of fun.
Dad-Elder Ferrin is from Thousand Oaks, California. He's been out a transfer less then me. We were actually just talking about the temple this morning and how great it is and how much we'd like to go more often, but our time is needed elsewhere for the present time. President Turley is doing good. He's up and about. We talked to Sis. Turley last night and she said that he is really bored, ha ha. Our stake out here also does a nativity thing. I don't think its quite that big, but large nonetheless. Its a great thing for both members and nonmembers alike.
Remember that Christ will never forget us, we are on His hands and His feet. He will always look for opportunities to bless us. We can only receive these blessings though if we are obedient to His commandments.
Love you lots,
Elder Egan
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