tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68651249775165556792024-02-19T02:41:42.118-08:00Elder O'NeilInviting others to Come Unto Christ in the Philippines, San Pablo MissionAshtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comBlogger73125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-70128689750183772092015-06-16T09:03:00.002-07:002015-06-16T12:11:58.719-07:00Just Because<br />
Just a cute picture of Elder O'Neil<br />
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Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-38313223356565941962015-06-16T09:01:00.001-07:002015-06-16T09:01:04.561-07:00WEEK 71: "Give it Time"Family and Friends,<br />
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We have been working with Nico for awhile now and we have seen a miracle happen. He has been taught even before I got here to Cabuyao and once I got here our appointments have been more frequent and more times throughout the week. </div>
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One of his biggest struggles is the fact that Joseph Smith is a true prophet. He was raised in the Catholic church that says Jesus Christ was and will be the last living prophet. Nico has come to church for the longest time because his wife is a member but also because he loves the teachings and the spirit he feels. He just cant accept Joseph Smith and The Book of Mormon being the words of God. One of his most commonly used phrases is any church is true as long as its Christ centered.</div>
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We went over there last Sunday and yesterday and he finally admitted to us that no man could write The Book of Mormon in such detail and with as much exactness unless he was a prophet given the power of God to do so. It had finally made sense to him and he has accepted the invitation to be baptized. This has been and answer to many many nights full of prayers. Thank you for your faith and prayers. This is the true church. God is at the head of it. I love you all.</div>
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Elder O'Neil</div>
Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-40676649678715332402015-06-16T08:59:00.002-07:002015-06-16T09:00:11.719-07:00WEEK 70: PHIILPPINESI have had to do a lot of stuff on the computer and dont have time anymore. Please let everyone know im okay and thank you for their prayers. I love you.<br />
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Elder O'Neil</div>
Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-87749036758867400352015-06-01T09:32:00.001-07:002015-06-01T09:32:13.971-07:00WEEK 69: "Matthew 19:14"Friends and Family,<br />
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We have made lots of progress in our ward this week. We were able to witness 2 baptisms and commit another 3 to baptism it the next little be. Myself and Elder Mesina have had so many miracles as we have been in this companionship and we look forward to seeing many many more.</div>
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Christian and Christoni have been amazing! We have had some great laughs as we have answered their questions. At this age, these kids are truly innocent and just want to know things. We are very blessed to have witnessed this as it has all play out the way it has. The Lord has his hand in the littlest of situations. This is the true church upon the earth today.</div>
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"But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven."</div>
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I am grateful for your prayers and I testify that they play a very big part in this work. I love each of you.</div>
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*PS, to anyone who may be interested, per Brennan's request we have made him a facebook page, Elder O'Neil</div>
Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-2067238096990170432015-06-01T09:26:00.001-07:002015-06-01T09:27:06.493-07:00WEEK 68: "Weekly Letter"This is my email for the week. Please let everyone know im okay and thank you for their prayers. Because of them we have two baptism this coming week. Thank you for making the facebook. I love you.<br />
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(short and sweet)</div>
Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-62236131878063710002015-05-18T10:57:00.000-07:002015-05-18T10:58:34.229-07:00WEEK 67 "Progression"<span style="color: #274e13; font-size: medium;">Friends and Family,</span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">I have a new companion this transfer this week but am staying in Cabuyao 2. Elder Mesina is from Tarlac here in the Philippines. We have already gotten so much accomplished in the past week that we've been together and it makes me excited for what the rest of this transfer holds. Our investigators all came to church yesterday and we were able to see some less-actives come to church for the first time in years. I know that it is because of prayers and fasting and faith that this was all made possible.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Christian and Christoni are both preparing for their baptisms within the next couple weeks. This is exciting because this will be another completed family whose next step is to be sealed in the temple next year.</span></div>
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Shantel has been coming to church for 5 years now with her aunt and uncle and is turning 9 which means she is able to be taught and baptized by the missionaries. Our lessons with her are literally her teaching us. She knows all this stuff and is very excited to be baptized.</div>
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Collin and Francheska are also looking at baptism just around the corner. Francheska was a little hesitant because she wasn't sure what her friends would think if she became a member. She as slowly opened up and had and increased desire to be baptized. Her friends are very supportive and have began to sit in the lessons with us because they too want to be taught.Collin cant stop talking about how close his baptism is. Every time we walk past he mentions something about it. Please for Francheska that her desire will not be lost.</div>
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April and Marvin are both referral/family members of a less -active that is coming back. Marvin has asked some very amazing questions and is trying to get Sundays off so he can come to church. Please pray for this. April is his daughter and is also very knowledgeable of the church as her mom has taught while growing up.</div>
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Nico has not missed a day of church since investigating it 5 months ago. The ward already thought he was a member. Please pray for him. He had some family problems that he's trying to overcome so he can become a member.</div>
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Lily and Joshua after coming to church their first <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1450633152" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ"><span style="color: #222222;">Sunday</span></span></span> expressed their desire to be baptized. Given the opportunity we extended a date and the willingly accepted. We met them because they approached us on the street one day. They are very progressing. Pleas pray for them.</div>
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Jerly and Noel are stilling to figure things out with their marriage papers. Progress is being made but Satan is throwing all sorts of obstacles in their path. With increased faith this they will be baptized and married.</div>
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Please pray for all of these investigators. They want to do whats right and its amazing to see the changes that gospel knowledge brings to their lives.I love all.</div>
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Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-9284735116261728432015-05-11T08:58:00.000-07:002015-05-11T08:58:07.699-07:00MOTHERS DAY SKYPE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We love Elder O'Neil! Last time skyping before he comes home. So bittersweet.Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-54700614932044206092015-05-04T09:12:00.000-07:002015-05-18T10:58:11.808-07:00WEEK 65 PHILIPPINES<span style="color: #e69138; font-size: medium;">Family and Friends,</span><br />
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We have had lots of success these past couple weeks and I know it is because of prayers, fasting and faith.</div>
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Last week we met a lady as we were walking that said she was very interested it what we had to teach. She willingly set an appointment with us to come back and teach. We wen to her house on the scheduled date and taught the Restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Elder Kaifoto and I were both surprised at the amazing question she asked. We felt that she was going be baptized very quick. We set up another time to visit with her and again she willingly accepted. We planed on teaching about the Book of Mormon and reading the introduction. We started the lesson and asked if she had any questions. She started of with "Why was the book hidden away for so many years" and "Who did the golden plates get translated by those 'two stones'?" Elder Kaifoto looked at me and we were both amazed. We continued to teach and answer her questions as she asked them. She then went on to ask questions about specific people. We were shocked. She said she hadnt read it but that she had heard briefly about it. There was something more to this because those are deep questions. </div>
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At the end of the lesson we asked if she had anymore questions that would surprise us even more. This was her question, but our answer. "Do I need to be baptized again?" The response was "No only once in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints" Her response was "Oh! Well then I've already been baptized! Do I need to be taught again?" We all just started laughing because it made sense. She went and got her baptismal certificate and sure enough 3 years ago she was baptized. She never told us that until the third time we met with her. She only said she had talked with the missionaries because they were teaching her cousin. It was a great laugh but we are now teaching her husband and daughter. They are amazing.</div>
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This is the true church of Jesus Christ on the earth today.</div>
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Love,</div>
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Elder O'Neil</div>
Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-87873121177200367822015-04-27T12:16:00.000-07:002015-05-18T10:58:02.129-07:00WEEK 64 "Gerard's Baptism"<div dir="ltr">
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This week is aslo short on time. We had another wonderful baptism. Gerard is 15 and is the last person to be baptized in his family. A year from now this family will be sealed in the temple. That is was this work is all about!<br />
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Elder O'Neil</div>
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It was the church's national day of service here in the Philippines so we helped by cleaning the river and removing the garbage.</div>
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Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-91963096469911450162015-04-22T10:42:00.001-07:002015-05-18T10:57:53.083-07:00WEEK 63 PHILIPPINES<div dir="ltr">
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<span style="color: black;">We had the wonderful opportunity this week to witness the baptism of Edze. The Lord had truly prepared her for us. </span></div>
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Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-87181036500318984582015-04-22T10:39:00.000-07:002015-04-22T10:39:04.253-07:00WEEK 63 "Grace and the Atonement"<div dir="ltr">
<b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;">FAMILY AND FIENDS</span></b><div>
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<span style="color: black;">It is now my chance to report on General Conference and bare my witness of a loving Heavenly Father expressed through his living servants. As I read all the wonderful emails last week about how amazing conference was, my excitement and anticipation grew. I was able to center my studies around some of the topics that were mentioned in emails and gained many insights and even mores answers to questions as I attended these marvelous sessions of conference.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">The longer I am alive and the longer I am out her in the field, the power of the Atonement becomes evermore real. I had the wonderful opportunity of teaching a workshop this week, wherein we discussed this very real doctrine. We talked about weaknesses and sins, that they are different, but can both be conquered by not only the saving, but also the enabling power of the Atonement. Weakness are blessings whereas without them be would have no need to rely on the Savior to become perfected just as he is. A weakness only becomes detrimental to our salvation if we accept is as something that can never change, and therefore lose hope. If our weaknesses become the excuses as to why we sin, we only furthering ourselves from the path that leads to eternal rest and happiness. The Atonement is the way by which "weak things become strong unto us." If we accept of weaknesses humbly, recognizing that on our own we cannot overcome them, praying in fervent for strength, then enabling power of the Atonement is made accessible to each of us. I bare my personal witness that this is true. </span><span style="color: black;">I have witnessed lives change as people come to a knowledge of this sacred and true doctrine.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Elder Uchtdorf in his talk beautifully portrayed this in his talk as he said that through grace the gates of heaven are unlocked and the windows of heaven are open. It is through grace that we can go through life happier.I testify of this. </span></div>
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Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-90579429380094598802015-04-06T09:28:00.000-07:002015-04-06T09:28:29.563-07:00WEEK 62 "#BecauseHeLives"FRIENDS AND FAMILY,<br />
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What a spectacular Easter <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_737844069" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ"><span style="color: #222222;">Sunday</span></span></span> we have been blessed with. We had the highest number of investigators attend sacrament meeting yesterday since I have been here in Cabuyao. I know this was not a coincidence. As all of our investigators are devoted Catholics they have said that they only attend church two times a year, Christmas and Easter. I know that we met them at the right time befor that by this time, Easter, we would have a strong enough relationship with them that they would keep their commitment to attend church. We had visited many of them almost everyday this week resolving all kinds of reasons as to why they wouldn't be able to partake of the blessing of attending church. After being guided by the spirit countless times as to what to say we had done our part and we now needed to rely on the Lord. We had fast <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_737844070" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ"><span style="color: #222222;">Sunday</span></span></span> yesterday due to the delay in time zones. Myself and Elder Kaifoto prayed and fasted that we would see these people come to church. We were thrilled as we watched each investigator walk through the gates with smiles.</div>
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How suiting it was to have the topic in Gospel Principles on the Atonement. We had one investigator come to us afterward and inform us that she had broken her traditions of Easter Mass and how grateful she was to have done it. Testimonies were borne of such sincere knowledge that Christ LIVES. The spirit was so strong. We had countless other comments from investigators of how much different "Church with the Mormons" was compared to the traditions. This gospel is a day to day commitment that we have to make for ourselves. </div>
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This is the true church upon the earth today. How blessed we are to have it. HE LIVES. Proclaim it. I love you all.</div>
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Elder O'Neil</div>
Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-1641395547641012532015-04-06T09:26:00.000-07:002015-04-06T09:28:19.953-07:00WEEK 61 "No Accident"<span style="font-size: x-large;">Friends and Family,</span><br />
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One of the efforts that our stake is trying to push right now is mapping all the members houses in each ward to enable for an accurate record making it possible to meet needs and press the work ever forward. As missionaries and being able to walk the streets everyday, our assignment from the bishopric is that we find those who have records but not specific addresses and update the information the best we can. This is great for our situation as we are constantly searching for people to teach.</div>
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We had planned the in the morning where were we were going to work that day and finalized it. We went to church and because of unexpected meetings we had to change our plans. We decided to work close to where we were and scanned the list for members in that area. We started asking around for a specific person hoping that someone would know where he lived. We made it to the end of a street and found no success. There was a lady sitting on the curb watching her kids play and as one last effort we decided to ask if she know the person we were looking for. We told her what our purpose was and why we were looking for this person. She quietly sat there and answered our questions not giving very much detail. We thought we weren't going to find this person so we myself and Elder Kaifoto just stood silently waiting to we what was next. The lady spoke up and informed us that she was a member that moved in from a far away place, had been here for 6 years, and hadn't attended church since she had gotten here. We were able to set up an appointment with them to go over and teach. A couple day later we went over and met her husband and found that her kids weren't yet members. We taught and visited a couple times and had the wonderful opportunity of seeing them come to church yesterday. We had a plan but the Lord had a better plan. Not only did we bring a family to church but the kids are one step closer to baptism and the family is one step closer to the temple. </div>
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There are no "accidents" in the church. Everything happens for a reason. How great a blessing that truly is. Because HE LIVES we have this gospel. I love you all.</div>
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Elder O'Neil</div>
Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-35427295408851688762015-03-23T12:14:00.002-07:002015-03-23T12:14:46.454-07:00WEEK 60 "Be a Witness at all Times"Friends and Family,<br />
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I had the opportunity of attending an amazing Zone Conference this past week and here's just a couple notes that I took.</div>
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-Always act out of Love</div>
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-Make a hope statement and live by it. Something that gives you hope is something that is going to bless more lives than just your own. Share it!</div>
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-Testify of the Savior with a stern and rejoicing voice at all times. </div>
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-When you aren't feeling the spirit as much as you would like in you life or day, bare your testimony to someone. The spirit will be there to testify of what you speak.</div>
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My time is short but these few things have made for literally hours of study and pondering. I pray they might bring something to you as well. I love you.<br />
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Love Elder O'Neil</div>
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<span id="goog_922687655"></span><span id="goog_922687656"></span> Just doing some story telling in primary<br />
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Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-21033140724996077472015-03-17T13:12:00.001-07:002015-03-17T13:12:03.396-07:00WEEK 59 "Church is the Way"Friends and Family,<br />
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I first off want to thank you for your prayers in Elder Garvacio's behalf. He is back to work as though nothing happened. I testify that miracles are real. We all witness them each day, sometimes not realizing they are miracles. Heavenly Father knows and loves His children. </div>
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As mentioned a couple weeks, Noel, our investigator that got Sundays off, was able to attend church yesterday. It was a blessing to sit with him and be able to answer some of his questions and watch as everything we had taught him come together and make sense to him. We were able to talk about the priesthood last week and the different offices and their responsibilities. Both him and Jerlyn were amazed that he Lord trusted youth and even adults with the sacred priesthood power. With that, they were able to see just how important the sacrament is. This is an ordinance that we need and without we could not renew our baptismal covenants. What a blessing this is. A challenge that was extended to us as missionaries and that we have then challenged our investigators with is to focus on the peace and and gratitude that is felt in those sacred 10 or 15 minutes of sacrament meeting while the sacrament is being passed. Member or not, the spirit testifies and the feeling is real that these are true symbols of something that really happened out of a love unlike any other. The Atonement is real. I extend the same challenge. When you go to partake of the sacrament, pause for a couple seconds and truly think about what these symbolize, and then partake of them. It brings a different kind of meaning to the sacrament and will make the <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_66424155" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ"><span style="color: #222222;">Sunday</span></span></span> meeting that much more meaningful. I promise you these thing.</div>
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Jesus Christ is the literal living son of a literal living Father. They love us. Jesus Christ atoned for our sins that we may forget them and find true happiness. Families can be together forever because of a divine plan that our Heavenly Father has for us. The Book of Mormon is the truest book on the earth. When we read, ponder, and apply the things found in it we will can have continuous direction in our lives. Jesus is the Christ! He live. What truth is found in thes two simple words. These thing I know to be true. I love each of you.</div>
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Love Elder O'Neil</div>
Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-47390044222141935532015-03-17T13:09:00.001-07:002015-03-17T13:09:56.037-07:00WEEK 58 "Peace Be Still"Friends and Family,<br />
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4 hours of sleep in 3 days is a good way to say this is WORK. The entire week has been full of surprise events but all needed to happen so that we could see the real blessings that the Lord had in store for us. The Lord will stretch us but he will never brake us.</div>
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Thursday night Elder Garvacio, one of the elders in our apartment had an allergic reaction to some medicine he had taken. After I made calls to find out what need to be done the conclusion was made that he needed to be take to the hospital. Due to your location and distance from the mission home and the urgency of the situation we needed to get a member and use their trike to get us to the hospital. Myself and Elder Kaifoto ran to this brothers house, woke him up made our way to the hospital. As Elder Garvacio's breathing got worse and worse I looked around are realized we were all in silence praying that all would be well. We made it to the hospital and they only allowed one person to enter the ER with the patient. I went in with him and watched everything turn into organized chaos. As all this was going on, I had the phone going off with calls and texts, people asking all kinds of questions, and also the task of filling out the kinds of forms and paperwork. Things were loud and hectic but I had a peace in my heart that things were going to be okay. I just needed to take things one step at a time. I knew he needed a blessing but I was caught up with so much, at least I thought. They gave him his own space for a second and I knew this blessing was what needed to happen. I walked behind the curtain with just Elder Garvacio lying in the bed with beeping machines and everything else that was hooked up to him trying to do its part to give him relief. I told him I was going to give him a blessing and not being able to speak he just closed his eyes and folded his arms the best he could. I placed my hands on his head and began by stating his name. At that very moment everything went quiet and all distractions were drown out. The hospital seemed to stand still as though there was no one there. I cant recall the words that were said because I didn't even hear those. I remember saying amen, opening my eyes and everything was just as crazy as it had been. I looked down at Elder Garvacio's face and chest to see how he was doing. The swelling in his face had faded and his breathing had dropped back to normal. The nurse walked back in and was amazed at how fast the medicine had worked. Elder Garacio looked at me and smiled, we both knowing that we had just witnessed a miracle. </div>
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I reflected and thought about why we didn't give him a blessing before we left the house but I know that the Lord wanted myself, Elder Garvacio, and the nurses and doctors at the hospital to witness this miracle. After the blessing, I had some time to get done what I needed to with Elder Garvacio stable. As I talked with the doctors I was able to share with them my testimony, not giving up the chance to be a missionary. They knew and I knew that it was because of a loving Heavenly Father that all happened the way it had. Elder Garvacio is okay now but was taken to the MTC in Manila to be be closer to medical staff if he needs it. Please keep him in your prayers. </div>
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The power of the priesthood is real and again I can testify that it is through faith and the priesthood that miracles happen. Our Heavenly Father Loves us. I love you .</div>
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Love Elder O'Neil</div>
Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-13072663674364863742015-03-17T13:07:00.001-07:002015-03-17T13:07:03.955-07:00WEEK 57 "When There's a Will There's a Way"Friends and Family,<br />
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I witnessed a miracle this week after many prayers and fasting this last week that I want to share and pray that you may feel the power of it. </div>
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Elder Kaifoto has been in the area longer than I have and has been teaching Jerlyn and Noel for awhile now. Jerlyn has been coming to church pretty regularly and has been telling her husband about what a great experience it is. He hasnt been able to attend yet due to his work schedule and not being able to get Sundays off. We have been over there regularly teaching and sharing things that we have felt will build their faith. In one of our nightly plannings we decided we were going to go and be bold with love and commit him to ask his boss for Sunday's off so he could attend church. When we extended the commitment he was a bit hesitant saying that his boss was a devoted catholic and that he wouldn't find Sundays a day to take off of work. After each of us baring strong testimony of the Sabbath day we accepted the commitment. We went home and prayed that Noel would have the means by which he could have Sundays off. We followed up on Saturday so they could come to church the next day. Noel wasn't there but Jerlyn cam out and with a big smile on her face said they would be able to attend church because Noel got Sundays off from here on out. It was such a relief and all myself and Elder Kaifoto could to way smile. He is now one step closer to becoming eternally happy as a member of this church. </div>
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When our desires are righteous the Lord is going to prepare a way that we may fulfill those. He loves us. With faith we can come mountains but we cant be surprised when Heavenly Father gives us a shovel to do it. Simple meaning we need to act on our faith. Jesus Christ is our Savior and HE LIVES. </div>
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Elder O'Neil</div>
Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-51454198936791564782015-03-17T13:05:00.001-07:002015-03-17T13:05:43.260-07:00WEEK 56 "The True Blue Book"Friends and Family,<br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: x-large;">How truly grateful I am for you. </span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">I had the wonderful opportunity of conducting an interview this week for a sister ready to be baptized. We walked into her home and I could feel that the spirit was there and that she had prepared herself. When we saw her she was quietly sitting in a corner of here home reading her Book of Mormon. I asked if she thought she was ready to start the interview. She quietly said i'm nervous but I know this is true now is the time. I preceded with the interview and I could feel that she was prepared. She was so excited that she was going to be able to have an eternal family. Every answer she gave in some way related back to her living with her husband forever. She testified of it over and over and over again that the Plan of Salvation was real. I asked her how her reading of The Book of Mormon was going and she started of my saying I have a testimony of it. She told me that at first she started to read it with the purpose of keeping her commitment with the missionaries. She said that she understood nothing that she was reading. She went back to the missionaries and said that she was getting discouraged about reading. They asked her is she was praying before she read and how she was reading. She told them that she had forgotten to pray and that she was reading it to just keep her part of the commitment. That told her to start reading it for herself and to gain her own testimony of it, not just to please the missionaries. She said that after they left her house she offered a pray and then began to read. She told me that it all unfolded and everything was and an answer in some way to one of the questions she had in her life. She again testified of it and said I am ready to put all the things i've learned into action by becoming a member of this true church.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Its through The Book of Mormon that we come to find peace in our lives and direction in this journey on earth. This is written of r our day because we have a loving Heavenly Father want us to be happy. Jesus Christ atoned for us that we may make the necessary changes in our livers to say on the "Happy Path" of this journey. I love each of you.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Elder O'Neil</span></div>
Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-71548788228219016712015-03-17T13:03:00.001-07:002015-03-17T13:03:29.710-07:00WEEK 55 "We are Known"<div class="MsoNormal">
Family and Friends,</div>
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After just six short week I have left San Pablo and now have the opportunity of serving in Cabuyao with Elder Kaifoto. We have had so many meetings and other responsibilities that I we havent had lots of time to talk but from what I know about him, we are going to have a great time and the Lord is going to have us working hard here. </div>
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“We see ourselves in terms of yesterday and today. Our Heavenly Father sees us in terms of forever. Although we might settle for less Heavenly Father wont, for He sees us as the glorious beings we are capable of becoming.” – Joseph B. Wirthlin</div>
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May we too see in this same way and when we forget do to busy schedules or trials Heavenly Father will give us a gentle reminder that he is aware us of and he loves us. This is his plan for our happiness. Our obedience is mandatory. I love each of you.</div>
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Elder O'Neil </div>
Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-11455562694001245892015-03-17T13:01:00.002-07:002015-03-17T13:01:36.193-07:00WEEK 54 "I am A Child of God"Family and Friends,<br />
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The San Pablo Mission had the wonderful opportunity to be taught from on high as we welcomed Brother Beck, General Young Men's President, and President Ardern, President of the Philippines area. There was some amazing council given by all those who spoke. Things that seemed minor were broken down to mean so much more. The spirit was so strong as it testified simple but eternal truths to all in attendance. </div>
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It was a very different kind of meeting as we were all encouraged to ask questions and participate. One sister stood and asked how she could stay focused on the work as she faced trials and things seemed to be going horribly wrong. Sister Beck stood at the pulpit and very simply said, "Always remember that<span style="color: #38761d;"> you are a child of God</span>." She went on to say that as we focus on this very truth, our faith will increase and we will know that we are not alone in the things we face. She said that we will come to recognize the<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b> LOVE</b> </span>he has for us and we wont be able to hold back the desire to share that same love. Our circumstances may not always permit us to show that love in a certain way but any kind deed, word, or action will make a difference. </div>
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May we always remember this. Heavenly Father knows us and is there to help us always. I love you all.</div>
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Love,</div>
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Elder O'Neil</div>
Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-30442559191848326502015-03-17T13:00:00.002-07:002015-03-17T13:00:45.800-07:00WEEK 53 "Desire"<div dir="ltr">
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<span style="color: black;">My time is short this week but I want to quickly share a couple things that I learned from my studies this week and from an interview I had with President Mangum. </span><span style="color: black;">I read a talk by Elder Oaks entitles "Desire." He opens by a very powerful statement:</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"> "</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.007843); color: #2f393a; font-family: "Lucida Grande","Lucida Sans Unicode","Lucida Sans",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Desires dictate our </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.007843); font-family: "Lucida Grande","Lucida Sans Unicode","Lucida Sans",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: red;"><b>priorities</b></span></span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.007843); color: #2f393a; font-family: "Lucida Grande","Lucida Sans Unicode","Lucida Sans",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">, priorities shape our </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.007843); font-family: "Lucida Grande","Lucida Sans Unicode","Lucida Sans",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: red;"><b>choices</b></span></span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.007843); color: #2f393a; font-family: "Lucida Grande","Lucida Sans Unicode","Lucida Sans",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">, and choices determine our </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.007843); font-family: "Lucida Grande","Lucida Sans Unicode","Lucida Sans",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: red;"><b>actions</b></span></span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.007843); color: #2f393a; font-family: "Lucida Grande","Lucida Sans Unicode","Lucida Sans",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">. The desires we act on determine our changing, our achieving, and our becoming.</span><span style="color: black;">" </span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">-We all have the potential of BECOMING Gods and Goddess. </span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">-When we repent we make a CHANGE in our lives.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.007843); font-family: "Lucida Grande","Lucida Sans Unicode","Lucida Sans",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #2f393a;">"</span><b><span style="color: red;">Readjusting</span></b><span style="color: #2f393a;"> our desires to give highest priority to the things of eternity is not easy. We are all tempted to desire that worldly quartet of property, prominence, pride, and power. We might desire these, but we <u>should not fix them as our highest priorities</u>.</span></span><span style="color: black;">" "</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.007843); color: #2f393a; font-family: "Lucida Grande","Lucida Sans Unicode","Lucida Sans",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.007843); color: #2f393a; font-family: "Lucida Grande","Lucida Sans Unicode","Lucida Sans",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">If our righteous desires are sufficiently intense, they will </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.007843); font-family: "Lucida Grande","Lucida Sans Unicode","Lucida Sans",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: red;"><b>motivate</b></span></span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.007843); color: #2f393a; font-family: "Lucida Grande","Lucida Sans Unicode","Lucida Sans",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> us to </span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.007843); color: #2f393a; font-family: "Lucida Grande","Lucida Sans Unicode","Lucida Sans",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><u>cut and carve ourselves free from addictions and other sinful pressures </u></span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.007843); color: #2f393a; font-family: "Lucida Grande","Lucida Sans Unicode","Lucida Sans",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><u>and priorities</u> that prevent our eternal progress."</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">-We must evaluate ourselves and make necessary changes </span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">-Sacrifice is simply giving up something good for something better. Its not always easy but it is worth it.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.007843); color: #2f393a; font-family: "Lucida Grande","Lucida Sans Unicode","Lucida Sans",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">"...all of us face potential traps that will prevent progress toward our eternal destiny.</span><span style="color: black;">"</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">-Thankfully we have the atonement that helps us overcome these traps.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">-Choosing good friends will in many ways lessen these traps.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">He then goes on to close with this very exact statement:</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">"</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.007843); font-family: "Lucida Grande","Lucida Sans Unicode","Lucida Sans",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #2f393a;">Let us remember that desires dictate our </span><span style="color: red;"><b>priorities</b></span><span style="color: #2f393a;">, priorities shape our </span><b><span style="color: red;">choices</span></b><span style="color: #2f393a;">, and choices determine our </span><b><span style="color: red;">actions</span></b><span style="color: #2f393a;">. In addition, it is our actions and our desires that cause us to become something, whether a true friend, a gifted teacher, or one who has qualified for eternal life."</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.007843); color: #2f393a; font-family: "Lucida Grande","Lucida Sans Unicode","Lucida Sans",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">"We should remember that righteous desires cannot be superficial, impulsive, or temporary. They must be heartfelt, unwavering, and permanent."</span><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
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President Mangum asked that in our district meetings we take some time to write down our desires to see if its just a dream/wish or a true desire. If what we are priorities are, are choices are, and the way we act connect back to our desires we are on the right track, if not we need to make some readjustments. I did this and I testify that it was through inspiration that we were all given this assignment. The Lord will pick us up where we lack and cheer us on when we're trying. <span style="color: #741b47;"><b>I love you all.</b></span></div>
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Elder O'Neil</div>
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Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-63959742871584421602015-03-17T12:59:00.001-07:002015-03-17T12:59:52.889-07:00WEEK 52 "Prayers Are Answered"Friends and family,<br />
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There are people still striving to "find Jesus" as we have been doing our best to talk to as many people as we can. We have met so many wonderful people with backgrounds so few and far between. I have learned very quickly to not judge people for whatever they may say of however they may act. We are all children of our Heavenly Father and some are just trying to find some direction in their live in all kind of different ways. How grateful some are when they hear that in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints we have the answers they are looking for. </div>
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We stopped to get something to eat on Saturday at a restaurant. We were sitting there and I had a distinct feeling that we needed to leave at that time. I wasn't sure where we were supposed to go but we just started walking. We made it to a point where we needed to make a decision as to what road to take. I had previously said a silent prayer that I would know what I was supposed to be doing leaving dinner before we were done. I saw something that caught my eye and told Elder Finau that we were going to check it out. We got to the place we were traveling toward and still didn't feel that what we were supposed to be doing was fulfilled. We both said a quick prayer and followed the road we felt we needed to take. On our way down the road a young man emerged from his house and shouted "Elders." We both looked at each other and knew this is what we were going for. He asked us if we were Mormons and then pulled out a pamphlet from his bag. He told us that he was so interested to learn more and knew that if he showed faith by reading the pamphlet the rest would come. He was making his way down the same road we were and if we would have just taken the easy way home we would have never crossed paths with him. The power of prayer is real. Heavenly Father love each and every one of us. </div>
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I would please ask that you pray for Danilo and the Nepal family. This not an investigator but some one very near and dear to my heat. Please pray for Grandpa Rigby.</div>
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I love you.</div>
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Elder O'Neil</div>
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Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-8230060097414321852015-03-17T12:57:00.000-07:002015-03-17T12:57:17.327-07:00WEEK 51 "A Firm Foundation"Family and Friends,<br />
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Sadly enough we had to send the pope back home yesterday but he has in many ways, helped the work move along. While he was here, there were many televised masses around the Philippines. It made the work hard as people didn't want to do anything but watch "Santo Papa" while he was on tv, but as soon as the programs were done, people came flocking to "find Jesus" as they said. As we talked to people and told them that we were representatives of Jesus Christ, some wanted to learn more and others still weren't sure. As we simply bore testimony that there is only one true church that Jesus Christ established on this earth, hearts were changed. We were sensitive to not be offensive and show respect for others beliefs, but we were bold in our conviction and testified for deep within our hearts.</div>
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I had the opportunity of going on exchanges this week and we talked to many many people. We were about to call it a night when we passed a mansion size home. We both looked at each other and then decided we would just make our way to the house close by of our investigator to invite them to church. I thought about the words a lady had previously spoken that day "find Jesus." I realized that the worst thing that could happen in asking someone if we can share with them is for them to say no. I had nothing holding me back but myself. I looked at my companion and told him we were going to just go and see what happens. We knocked on the gate outside thinking that was the farthest we were going to make it. A young boy came and opened the gate and told us to come in. He went and got his mom and we began to tell her who we were and what our purpose was there at her house. She politely said "our family is Catholic and we are watching 'Santo Papa' right now, we don't have time." Thinking that all was done for the night we said that we would come back another day when they weren't busy. She said that we could try to come back if they were home on a different day, but most likely we couldn't share because they were Catholic. We told the sister that we would come back another day. We began to walk back to the gate and she asked us if we wanted to eat before we left. I looked at my companion and we both felt that this was our way in. We went in and sat down to an amazing dinner and while eating the questions started coming about where we were from and why we were so far away from home. We got on the topic of the Restoration in a very discrete way as to not lose our chances. We both bore testimony in informal ways and they continued to grow in their interest. They were very surprised and grateful for the respectful way in which we presented ourselves and said that anytime we were passing by we could drop in. WE DID IT! They were trying to "find Jesus" and we gave them the way. We planted the seed and now we will nourish it.</div>
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Most churches have some truth in them. That's how Heavenly Father planned it to be. We have the full truth in these the later days. We have the priesthood and a living prophet. Without these we could not succeed. </div>
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Elder O'Neil </div>
Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-27020271769169221172015-03-17T12:55:00.001-07:002015-03-17T12:55:38.228-07:00WEEK 50 "For the Beauty Of The Earth"Family and Friends,<br />
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What a beautiful world we live in. I took the chance this week to go and tract in some different areas that I felt hadn't been visited by missionaries for quite some time if ever. While out we were able to view some of the beauties that our Heavenly Father has so graciously blessed us with. This life on earth is a trial period that we can smile about and enjoy the journey or focus on all the negatives and find ourselves saddened among the beauty. "I never said it would be easy, I just said it would be worth it." </div>
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The investigators are still in the process of becoming investigators that I can report on. We are just talking to as many people as we can with some welcoming us in, some welcoming us in and then asking us not to come back, and some that we are going back to visit this week. The ward members are so helpful in the work and we always have someone offering us something. The people are very polite out here but just more busy with this being a bigger city.</div>
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The Lord loves us and we are his children. I testify of that.</div>
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Love Elder O'Neil</div>
Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6865124977516555679.post-84623871401773348892015-03-17T12:52:00.002-07:002015-03-17T12:52:39.633-07:00WEEK 49 "Happy New Year"Friends and Family,<br />
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I couldn't have asked for a better way to start a new year. Transfer day was Tuesday and I am now out in San Pablo training again. Elder Finau is from Tonga but has lived in New Zealand for a while. He's great. I've learned so much from him already and can already see how the work is going to go these next couple months. Wonderful. He has the biggest heart and is so giving. He has a testimony that fills each lesson with the spirit instantly. If we keep eating like we are we may not make it into some of these houses. So excited to report in the following weeks about everything here in San Pablo.</div>
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New Year's Eve was amazing. We are re-opening this area which simple means both of us are clueless of what is going on. We wen out and started talking to people just trying to get into a house. We walked down one street and a man in his early thirty's called us over and asked if we had a few minutes to talk. He said he had a couple questions and instantly I judged him thinking that it was to be some sort of debate. I said a quick prayer asking for the knowledge of how to answer his questions without making it an argument. He started of by saying that he wanted to know the truth about some of the rumors he's heard about Mormons. We were able to answer the other questions he had using the Book of Mormon. He asked that we come back and teach him more about the gospel and especially the Book of Mormon. We met some other people and were able to leave a question enough for them that they want us to come back. </div>
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We walked past a little shack that had a line of kids standing outside of with bags and pots. We passed by quietly and a brother came out from behind with a big smile on his face and shouted "lets eat!" He had us come in for a second and told us that every year, he cooks masses of food for those that don't have much money. He sat us down at a small table and gave us a bowl of hot soup. We finished it and he shouted "eat more." Having just come from a members house that fed us we politely declined the soup and then out from the back came a lady with drinks and more food for us. It wasnt soup, Just more food haha. We ate a bit more, took some pictures and then proceed to leave. The brother placed his hand on my shoulder and said I want you to remember me when you go home and give back like I have given to you. We left him with a couple words and he asked that we come back and talk to him more about the gospel. </div>
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The entire time we were out Elder Finau kept saying "these people are so kind." This is an amazing place to be serving and what a blessing it is to be a part of hastening the work. Jesus Christ lives. His mission is one of love. May ours be as well. The Book of Mormon changes live only because its true. I love you.</div>
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Love,</div>
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Elder O'Neil</div>
Ashtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04847930714948238875noreply@blogger.com