Hey Everyone!
So this morning we got transfer calls and all that they told us was who was transferred and who was staying. All I know is that I'm transferred and I have no idea where I'm going. I was pretty disappointed about that, I liked it a lot more when we found out all at once. I'm not a big fan of the suspense game that transfer meeting is all about. So Wednesday I will find out; I guess you will just have to wait until next week.
This last week was a pretty good one. We had a lot of good lessons and we got 6 new investigators. Not all of them will be progressing investigators, though. I guess I won't really be able to give you the update on them, seeing as I won't be here.
I definitely am going to miss Cluj. It has a very special place in my heart(cliche, I know) and I'm going to miss the awesomeness of the branch. There are so many incredible members here. I got pictures with everyone so I can tell you all about each of them when I get back. This has been the best branch I've served in. If it has one flaw, it would be the branch president's strong inclination to false doctrine. During the 3rd hour, he taught us all about how God's main purpose is to create order out of chaos. One of the worst things that absolutely blew me away is that he doesn't believe in the premortal life!! Mihai said something about it and and President Condurachi paused for a second and said, "Possibly," and then moved on. It was hard to take. Mihai Iepure is a stallion and corrected the vast majority of it, but the Spirit was not in that meeting, you could feel its absence. It was sad....
We had one investigator at church, Ionut. He is doing really well. We had a lesson with him all about testimonies and he shared his conversion story with us. It was really cool and he has a way strong conviction and belief in the Church. The Militaru's weren't there and I'm not really sure where they were. I'll talk to them tonight to tell them that I'm transferred.
That young family, mother and daughter, dropped hard. I don't know how stuff like that happens. My companion called her on exchange and she said "not now" and hung up. I'm not sure if he just caught her at a bad time and she was saying she's not interested. We'll try again. She was super cool, but people get really weird sometimes. I guess it's just that Satan gets in somehow and freaks them out, through friends or false doctrine or something.
Before I forget, happy birthday W!!! Man, you are a BIG 8 years old. That is pretty crazy. I probably won't recognize you when I get home, you'll have grown so much. Thanks for a being an awesome buddy. I miss you and I can't wait to see you again and to hang out with you! I hope you have an incredible birthday and get everything you want. I love you, W.
Yeah, the Kiss' are really strong members. They are some of my favorites. Francisc is the 2nd counselor in the branch presidency and Monica is an RM(from France) and just super solid. They have a little boy, about 1 year old, named Razvan. He is super cute. We didn't do a whole lot with the street board. All of the pictures are done, they just need to do the words. I think Cosmin will help the others finish it up. There weren't quite as many members at church, about 50 this week. Still really good, though. I am super happy with how the branch is doing right now. Well, I can't think of a lot to write. I really just want to know what my future holds for me, but I have to wait a couple of days. You guys are all great. I love you!
--Elder Ross
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Monday, August 25, 2008
August takes its toll but able to meet with . . .
Hey Great Family and Friends!!
This week was good, though there were not a ton of exciting things. As you pointed out, Mom, it is still August and that takes its toll, but I'm just grateful we're still able to meet with most of our investigators, though they are coming and going. Outside of just the missionary work, I actually do feel really good. I don't say this in any way to brag and pump myself up, but I have a feeling of great growth and, I don't know, acceptance maybe, of course despite my many weaknesses and shortcomings. When I stop and think about my mission, I definitely have not been the perfect missionary, I haven't baptized tons of people, but I really have worked hard and I feel peace when I reflect like that. Of course I still have 4 months left and I will continue to work hard and to learn and to progress. I'm not quite perfect yet, lol.
Haha, thanks, Mom, for the trunky questions. [I had to ask him a few post-mission questions but hesitated for fear of encouraging trunkiness.] But I'm already trunky. I just use it to my advantage and push myself more. Yeah, I would love to live with J in Heritage Halls. Thanks for helping me to set that up. Off and on throughout my mission I've thought about working at the MTC and just now when you asked me that question, I stopped and prayed for a minute. And yeah, I think it would be a really good thing. I don't know exactly how applying works, but I don't think they have many teachers right now. Yeah, I would like you to try applying for me. Thanks!
So we spent a decent of time this week working on the street board, but unfortunately it's not quite done yet. We met with Doamna Mocean and her son was there, too. He listened to most of the lesson, but then left for a smoke. She's doing well, but not as well, because of her son being home. She needs to remember to read and pray everyday. We remind her everytime, I'm sure she'll get it. I mean she has before, in spurts, but actually really solidly doing those things hasn't quite come yet.
We met with Paul as well and that was a sweet lesson. I was actually with Elder Fromm, because we had an exchange and he must have just been so excited that he fell sleep for about 30 minutes, HAHA. Paul had a lot of great questions, sincere ones, and he promised to read the Book of Mormon every day. He said he'll be coming and going for the next two weeks, but that he'll take the Book of Mormon with him and he'll call us when he is home long enough for us to meet. Usually, that's sketchy and investigators never call you, but I believe Paul. He's way sincere. Oh, and super ripped. He had his shirt off when we first got there, lol.
On Saturday, we had a really cool lesson in the blocs. We knocked into this young mother named Ioana and she had a little girl(about 18 months old), Maria, who was sooo funny. At random times in the lesson she just busted out into hysterical laughing and it was super cute. Ioana was really cool and interested in our message and so we'll go back tomorrow or Wednesday. It was a really fun lesson and it was also a really rare lesson, because it's probably the third time I've had a family listen to me and be interested.
Sora Gorzo from Bucharest was here for a few days and also came to church. She is known for always hosting the missionaries and feeding them and she even managed to do it in Cluj. She invited Elder Patterson and I over to her brother's house and she fed us a pretty dang good meal. It was really cool to talk to her and see how she's doing.
Sora Gorzo came with Jeff Dickemore, a former missionary that served in Cluj. He's a way cool guy and I had a lot of fun talking to him. His interest in studies is a lot like mine. He has one more year left of International Studies and he likes languages, too. He learned French and wants to learn Arabic. He actually teaches Beginning French at BYU right now. It was sweet to talk to him about his plans and to share my own. He said that I could pick Spanish up and be fluent in a year, because it's a much simpler language and there are so many people to practice with. Also, he's maintained his Romanian really well and actually translates for General Conference. So I talked to him a little bit about ways to keep up the language.
This week coming up is the last one in the transfer and it's kind of crazy, because it's a big one for me. I'll probably go to my next area to "die" there. I really hope it's a good one, and that I'm district leader, and that I have sisters, too. Haha, those are my desires, but it will be whatever the Lord wants.
Church was amazing this week. There were 60 people there! It is the high since I've been here. And if we managed that in August, maybe it will get even better and keep growing and before you know it, we have a capela! We had 5 investigators there, the Militaru's and Ionut, which was cool, because I haven't seen that kid in like 3 months. The Militaru's are doing well, we had a sweet lesson with them last week. I was praying in my nightly prayer before I went to bed and the idea came to me(nightly prayers are one of my best times for revelation) to teach them about studies and to give them all study journals and colored pencils. So we did and committed them to do a topic study by this week. We're going there tonight with Francisc, Monica and Razvan Kiss for an FHE and one of the children will do the spiritual thought on their topic study. The Kiss' have the activity and Sora Militaru is doing the prajitura. So we will have a member present lesson, a really good one, in which we mostly watch and enjoy, haha. Our plan is actually to come up with a reason to leave early and to leave the Kiss' with the Militaru's so they can bond better, especially with the Militaru dad. It will be sweet.
I think that is most of my update. Next week, I should be telling you all about transfers. I hope you have an amazing one! I love you!!!
--Elder Ross
Monday, August 18, 2008
Working hard but everyone is on vacation
Hey Everyone!
Thanks for all of the awesome emails. I really enjoyed reading about what everyone has been up to and just hearing from all of you. You are a great support to me and I am grateful for it.
Of course it's ok if it takes a couple of weeks to send the package. I just to need to get with enough time before I go home that I can get the shirts tailored. I am SUPER excited to get that CD, too.
This week was kind of rough in a lot of ways. A lot of our investigators didn't set up to meet with us and so we spent a lot of time in the blocs. Sadly, it didn't go well at all. For example, on both friday and saturday we had about 4 hours in a row of bloc-knocking and each day we only got one lesson. It was rough and we both started to have the impression that there is something more effective with our time that we should be doing. I'm not sure yet what that will be. We have a couple of ideas. One is that we are going to finish making a street board this week and then go street contacting with that as the whole district. I'm really excited to try that, I've never done it before on my mission. Another thought we had was going to the parks and playing basketball with kids and then, after we beat because we surely will, teaching them the Gospel. I think it could be a great way to find youth who are normally hard to find. We'll see what happens, I'll let you know next week.
We tried contacting that referral that Laura gave us. Sunday before last we went there and no one was home. This last Thursday we went and same thing, but then we talked with one of the neighbors and she told us that they had moved. But all isn't lost...she told us the hospital that the dad works at so this week we are going to see if we can go and find him. Maybe the Lord will bless us, we'll do our part to be diligent.
We didn't meet with Doamna Mocean this whole week. Her son came home and she has been busy with him. Hopefully, we'll meet with both of them soon. She didn't come to church for the same reason. We are still taking hits, because this is the month that everyone goes on vacation. Paul was gone all week(hopefully we meet with him tonight, he's going to call us) and a few other people. The Militaru's are back, though. We met with them and they were at church, too. They were the only investigators we had there, though.
I am doing good. I wouldn't say I'm trunky, at least not in a bad way, but I've started to get excited for being home, seeing everyone, doing some normal things again, going to school, etc. For example, I've really started to miss reading for pleasure. Don't get me wrong, I love the scriptures and blasting my way through the Old Testament right now and even enjoying it, but it's not quite the same, lol. In no way, do I let such thoughts distract me or discourage me. On the contrary, they help push me even more. But I'm getting ready to come home. I'm not yet, but I'm getting there. By the way, I still don't know when I go home but I've been told it is the 20th or the 23rd, one of the two. It depends on what tickets they can get.
The temperature hasn't been too bad here at all. There were a couple of really hot days this last week, but I think it's passed. I've been super lucky, because I've been in Cluj the whole summer and it is more in the mountains and so is cooler than most areas. And the best thing, there is ALWAYS a breeze blowing, without fail. It's a beautiful thing.
Well, I hope you all have an amazing week, especially because it will be so busy. You guys are all so awesome and I love you!
Until next week...
Elder Ross
p.s. I don't think i told you last week, but I got your package week before last with my journal, wamu card, letters, etc. Thanks! It was very much enjoyed and appreciated!
Thanks for all of the awesome emails. I really enjoyed reading about what everyone has been up to and just hearing from all of you. You are a great support to me and I am grateful for it.
Of course it's ok if it takes a couple of weeks to send the package. I just to need to get with enough time before I go home that I can get the shirts tailored. I am SUPER excited to get that CD, too.
This week was kind of rough in a lot of ways. A lot of our investigators didn't set up to meet with us and so we spent a lot of time in the blocs. Sadly, it didn't go well at all. For example, on both friday and saturday we had about 4 hours in a row of bloc-knocking and each day we only got one lesson. It was rough and we both started to have the impression that there is something more effective with our time that we should be doing. I'm not sure yet what that will be. We have a couple of ideas. One is that we are going to finish making a street board this week and then go street contacting with that as the whole district. I'm really excited to try that, I've never done it before on my mission. Another thought we had was going to the parks and playing basketball with kids and then, after we beat because we surely will, teaching them the Gospel. I think it could be a great way to find youth who are normally hard to find. We'll see what happens, I'll let you know next week.
We tried contacting that referral that Laura gave us. Sunday before last we went there and no one was home. This last Thursday we went and same thing, but then we talked with one of the neighbors and she told us that they had moved. But all isn't lost...she told us the hospital that the dad works at so this week we are going to see if we can go and find him. Maybe the Lord will bless us, we'll do our part to be diligent.
We didn't meet with Doamna Mocean this whole week. Her son came home and she has been busy with him. Hopefully, we'll meet with both of them soon. She didn't come to church for the same reason. We are still taking hits, because this is the month that everyone goes on vacation. Paul was gone all week(hopefully we meet with him tonight, he's going to call us) and a few other people. The Militaru's are back, though. We met with them and they were at church, too. They were the only investigators we had there, though.
I am doing good. I wouldn't say I'm trunky, at least not in a bad way, but I've started to get excited for being home, seeing everyone, doing some normal things again, going to school, etc. For example, I've really started to miss reading for pleasure. Don't get me wrong, I love the scriptures and blasting my way through the Old Testament right now and even enjoying it, but it's not quite the same, lol. In no way, do I let such thoughts distract me or discourage me. On the contrary, they help push me even more. But I'm getting ready to come home. I'm not yet, but I'm getting there. By the way, I still don't know when I go home but I've been told it is the 20th or the 23rd, one of the two. It depends on what tickets they can get.
The temperature hasn't been too bad here at all. There were a couple of really hot days this last week, but I think it's passed. I've been super lucky, because I've been in Cluj the whole summer and it is more in the mountains and so is cooler than most areas. And the best thing, there is ALWAYS a breeze blowing, without fail. It's a beautiful thing.
Well, I hope you all have an amazing week, especially because it will be so busy. You guys are all so awesome and I love you!
Until next week...
Elder Ross
p.s. I don't think i told you last week, but I got your package week before last with my journal, wamu card, letters, etc. Thanks! It was very much enjoyed and appreciated!
Monday, August 11, 2008
A Sweet Find and A Blessing
Hey Everyone!
Ok, I may not have as much time today, because I have been trying to upload the movie that we made for zone conference(which was great, by the way). I think it turned out really well, but Snapfish isn't recognizing it and I'm pretty sure it's too big for an email.
Before I go on and forget, I have one little request. This will probably be the last time I ask for something before I go home and here it is. I want a bunch of new shirts(mine now are trashed) so that I can get them tailored here, because I love how they do that. If that's possible, I'd like 2 short-sleeve white shirts, and then one long-sleeve shirt of each of the following colors: black, red and a darker brown. That would be really awesome and I will then get them tailored to my body. :) Thanks!
Ok, yeah, this week was pretty good. We were pretty busy with getting the movie ready and also the rest of our presentation. But we were able to get some lessons and, though we didn't have as many as last week, we had more with a member present. On Sunday, we had two investigators at church, Doamna Mocean(yes! A little miracle with that, too, that I'll share) and Domnul Skabogeza, a 73-year old English student that came last week. I have no idea how to really say his name because it's Hungarian. He's come twice in a row, but he's kind of busy, so he didn't set up with us to meet with him. Hopefully, he'll make it out to English Tuesday night and then we'll talk more with him.
One of the sweet finds of the week actually came from the sisters. They bloc-knocked into this kid(probably my age) named Paul and then the next night the four of us all had a lesson with him and they handed him over to us. He's got the sweetest dreadlocks ever! Haha, and he was wearing a pretty manly skirt, like it was a skirt, but it was definitely a man skirt. I'm excited to work with him. He is really open and was really excited to get the Book of Mormon. We're going to meet with him later today and then, hopefully, he'll go play sports with us, because right after we're going to go play sports again with the American guy and all the Romanian youth that he invites. It will be fun.
Ok, so Sunday morning we went to meet Doamna Mocean at the bus stop near her place. We were supposed to meet her and a couple of other people at 9am, but 9:05 came and went and then the bus we needed pulled up so we hopped on it. I thought maybe she didn't come, because the night before we had a pretty intense lesson on baptism and it pushed her a little bit out of her comfort zone. So on the bus, I was feeling pretty discouraged and I was thinking about how all week we tried to get people to come to church and then no one did. Finally, I started praying and in my prayer I said, "Well, I've done everything I can. Now it's in your hands, Father. You take this load and do according to Your will." Not 10 seconds later, the sisters called me and said they were at that bus station and were with Doamna Mocean. The person they were supposed to meet didn't show up, but they were exactly where they needed to be, at exactly the right time, to help our investigator get to church. It was a cool experience for me.
Well, my hour is up in like one minute so I better go. I hope you all have a great week. I love you a ton!
--Elder Ross
Ok, I may not have as much time today, because I have been trying to upload the movie that we made for zone conference(which was great, by the way). I think it turned out really well, but Snapfish isn't recognizing it and I'm pretty sure it's too big for an email.
Before I go on and forget, I have one little request. This will probably be the last time I ask for something before I go home and here it is. I want a bunch of new shirts(mine now are trashed) so that I can get them tailored here, because I love how they do that. If that's possible, I'd like 2 short-sleeve white shirts, and then one long-sleeve shirt of each of the following colors: black, red and a darker brown. That would be really awesome and I will then get them tailored to my body. :) Thanks!
Ok, yeah, this week was pretty good. We were pretty busy with getting the movie ready and also the rest of our presentation. But we were able to get some lessons and, though we didn't have as many as last week, we had more with a member present. On Sunday, we had two investigators at church, Doamna Mocean(yes! A little miracle with that, too, that I'll share) and Domnul Skabogeza, a 73-year old English student that came last week. I have no idea how to really say his name because it's Hungarian. He's come twice in a row, but he's kind of busy, so he didn't set up with us to meet with him. Hopefully, he'll make it out to English Tuesday night and then we'll talk more with him.
One of the sweet finds of the week actually came from the sisters. They bloc-knocked into this kid(probably my age) named Paul and then the next night the four of us all had a lesson with him and they handed him over to us. He's got the sweetest dreadlocks ever! Haha, and he was wearing a pretty manly skirt, like it was a skirt, but it was definitely a man skirt. I'm excited to work with him. He is really open and was really excited to get the Book of Mormon. We're going to meet with him later today and then, hopefully, he'll go play sports with us, because right after we're going to go play sports again with the American guy and all the Romanian youth that he invites. It will be fun.
Ok, so Sunday morning we went to meet Doamna Mocean at the bus stop near her place. We were supposed to meet her and a couple of other people at 9am, but 9:05 came and went and then the bus we needed pulled up so we hopped on it. I thought maybe she didn't come, because the night before we had a pretty intense lesson on baptism and it pushed her a little bit out of her comfort zone. So on the bus, I was feeling pretty discouraged and I was thinking about how all week we tried to get people to come to church and then no one did. Finally, I started praying and in my prayer I said, "Well, I've done everything I can. Now it's in your hands, Father. You take this load and do according to Your will." Not 10 seconds later, the sisters called me and said they were at that bus station and were with Doamna Mocean. The person they were supposed to meet didn't show up, but they were exactly where they needed to be, at exactly the right time, to help our investigator get to church. It was a cool experience for me.
Well, my hour is up in like one minute so I better go. I hope you all have a great week. I love you a ton!
--Elder Ross
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Eight New Investigators
Hey Great People!
Hopefully, I can get enough written so that you have an enjoyable email to read. One of the rules that President Lundberg has emphasized is that we are at internet for no more than an hour. It's going to be hard sometimes, especially when I have pictures to put up, but I will keep the rule, because, frankly, I want a lot of success and blessings will come as I'm obedient. D&C 130:20-21 have become some of my favorite verses since I've been on my mission.
This week was really great. It was an absolutely normal week and so my companion and I were able to work really hard. A lot of our investigators weren't able to meet with us and so we went and found some more. For example, the Militaru's and Ionut are out of town. Anyway, even with the numbers being different, we managed to have 18 lessons on the week and the best part is that we gained 8 new investigators!! It's the most I've gained in one week, ever! So our goal of getting 20 by the end of the transfer will be greatly overshot, seeing as the countdown is down to 4 now. Not all of those new investigators are super promising, but some are. I'll tell you what happens next week as we see which ones really progress. Doamna Mocean is doing well. We had an amazing lesson with her, but unfortunately she was sick on Sunday and didn't come. Next week for sure. We also want to give her a baptismal date soon. We'll see, as the Spirit directs.
You're probably wondering why I'm writing you on Tuesday. Well, in the past it was usually because of zone conference or English fliers. Not this time, but because we were all too poor. Something happened with the office sending their file to Salt Lake and it wasn't received and so we didn't get any MSF until today. We were all very, very poor so we wouldn't have been able to shop and anything else that requires money, including internet. I used up all 400+ RON of personals left in loans to other people and myself just trying to survive(Don't worry, Mom, I'll get it back). It was nuts. Zone funds were also depleted so no one was getting paid back for that and only by borrowing 150 RON from Elder Smith were we able to get everyone from Bucuresti to Oradea and Cluj two weeks ago.It was pretty insane. It's all good now.
At church we had three investigators, all 70 years old or more, lol. All three of them are actually from our English classes and we told them about church, they took Liahona's and pamphlets and then they came to church! They seemed to really like it. I'm not sure how serious they are as real investigators. I've definitely never seen someone that old get baptized, but ....why not? If they are sincere and really investigate the truth and pray about it, then we will work with them. If not, it's ok. We'll just go and find someone that will keep their commitments.
So zone conference is this Saturday and I'm really excited for it. A big part of that is the movie that Elder Patterson and I are almost done making. We spent a good chunk of yesterday filming it and we just have one more little part tonight. It's on the Christlike attributes and we made a little clip on each one of the nine attributes, showing actually the lack thereof. I think it's way funny. So after we're done editing it(tomorrow probably) I'll see if I can email it to you. We're going to do it on Calin's computer and I think it's a good one so we'll see. Ok, to answer some questions...sarmole is like boiled cabbage rolls with meat, rice, onion, etc. inside. I think they are super good. They are pretty traditional, too, a very Romanian dish. Basically, I think I went into Buch on Wednesday because that is when Elder Smith needed to go down and President just thought it would be better for me to go with him, to travel in numbers I guess. Yeah, that Wednesday night, we had to help some greenies and their trainers catch trains back to their areas. Haha, yes, there is a very good mix of missionaries in this mission. A lot from Canada, a few from European countries and a lot of missionaries from states outside of Utah. I just get lucky, I guess. Only two of the six people in my district are from Utah. Elder Grimmius, Elder Smith's boy, is actually from Oregon, too, though Albany.
One last thing before I sign off. Last night we went to a big field and played softball with this American guy named John. He's here as a teacher and he's been here over 10 years. Anyway, he always organizes sports; basketball, softball, soccer. So I think we will play with him and a bunch of Romanian youth every P-day. It felt really good to play a sport again. It's been a while for me. I got warmed up, though. I think in the night I hit like 5 or 6 home runs. It was a ton of fun.
Well, I should sign off pretty quick. Thanks for everything you guys. I love you!
--Elder Ross
p.s. Good luck, Mom, with your presentation at the adoption conference. You'll do great!
Hopefully, I can get enough written so that you have an enjoyable email to read. One of the rules that President Lundberg has emphasized is that we are at internet for no more than an hour. It's going to be hard sometimes, especially when I have pictures to put up, but I will keep the rule, because, frankly, I want a lot of success and blessings will come as I'm obedient. D&C 130:20-21 have become some of my favorite verses since I've been on my mission.
This week was really great. It was an absolutely normal week and so my companion and I were able to work really hard. A lot of our investigators weren't able to meet with us and so we went and found some more. For example, the Militaru's and Ionut are out of town. Anyway, even with the numbers being different, we managed to have 18 lessons on the week and the best part is that we gained 8 new investigators!! It's the most I've gained in one week, ever! So our goal of getting 20 by the end of the transfer will be greatly overshot, seeing as the countdown is down to 4 now. Not all of those new investigators are super promising, but some are. I'll tell you what happens next week as we see which ones really progress. Doamna Mocean is doing well. We had an amazing lesson with her, but unfortunately she was sick on Sunday and didn't come. Next week for sure. We also want to give her a baptismal date soon. We'll see, as the Spirit directs.
You're probably wondering why I'm writing you on Tuesday. Well, in the past it was usually because of zone conference or English fliers. Not this time, but because we were all too poor. Something happened with the office sending their file to Salt Lake and it wasn't received and so we didn't get any MSF until today. We were all very, very poor so we wouldn't have been able to shop and anything else that requires money, including internet. I used up all 400+ RON of personals left in loans to other people and myself just trying to survive(Don't worry, Mom, I'll get it back). It was nuts. Zone funds were also depleted so no one was getting paid back for that and only by borrowing 150 RON from Elder Smith were we able to get everyone from Bucuresti to Oradea and Cluj two weeks ago.It was pretty insane. It's all good now.
At church we had three investigators, all 70 years old or more, lol. All three of them are actually from our English classes and we told them about church, they took Liahona's and pamphlets and then they came to church! They seemed to really like it. I'm not sure how serious they are as real investigators. I've definitely never seen someone that old get baptized, but ....why not? If they are sincere and really investigate the truth and pray about it, then we will work with them. If not, it's ok. We'll just go and find someone that will keep their commitments.
So zone conference is this Saturday and I'm really excited for it. A big part of that is the movie that Elder Patterson and I are almost done making. We spent a good chunk of yesterday filming it and we just have one more little part tonight. It's on the Christlike attributes and we made a little clip on each one of the nine attributes, showing actually the lack thereof. I think it's way funny. So after we're done editing it(tomorrow probably) I'll see if I can email it to you. We're going to do it on Calin's computer and I think it's a good one so we'll see. Ok, to answer some questions...sarmole is like boiled cabbage rolls with meat, rice, onion, etc. inside. I think they are super good. They are pretty traditional, too, a very Romanian dish. Basically, I think I went into Buch on Wednesday because that is when Elder Smith needed to go down and President just thought it would be better for me to go with him, to travel in numbers I guess. Yeah, that Wednesday night, we had to help some greenies and their trainers catch trains back to their areas. Haha, yes, there is a very good mix of missionaries in this mission. A lot from Canada, a few from European countries and a lot of missionaries from states outside of Utah. I just get lucky, I guess. Only two of the six people in my district are from Utah. Elder Grimmius, Elder Smith's boy, is actually from Oregon, too, though Albany.
One last thing before I sign off. Last night we went to a big field and played softball with this American guy named John. He's here as a teacher and he's been here over 10 years. Anyway, he always organizes sports; basketball, softball, soccer. So I think we will play with him and a bunch of Romanian youth every P-day. It felt really good to play a sport again. It's been a while for me. I got warmed up, though. I think in the night I hit like 5 or 6 home runs. It was a ton of fun.
Well, I should sign off pretty quick. Thanks for everything you guys. I love you!
--Elder Ross
p.s. Good luck, Mom, with your presentation at the adoption conference. You'll do great!
Saturday, August 2, 2008
An Interesting Week
Hey Everyone!
This last week was definitely an interesting one. It was so busy and full, that we had very little time to actually do missionary work. As a matter of fact, I think I got the worst numbers of my entire mission. I'll go on to talk about all the things that happened, but, needless to say, Elder Patterson and I are anxious to work super hard this week and get the transfer going right.
Monday and Tuesday I was here in Cluj with Elder Smith on exchange until we went down to Buch Tuesday night. I didn't get to do a lot of "my own" missionary work, because we were covering both his investigators and mine. It didn't help that our zones are very far apart. It was good, though, and on Monday night we took a wrong bus and ended up running into Adriana. I don't know if you remember, but she is one the girls that Elder Rigby and I met passing out fliers a few months back. She's the one that pretty much asked me out, lol. Anyway, she was happy to see me and was interested in English. Also, I invited her to an activity we had on Saturday and she and her sister, Alina, came. It was sweet. Oh, haha, and they brought me some sarmole which was way good! We were definitely led to find her. And now she'll be going to the sisters' English class and they can work with her, because we FOR SURE can't.
I was dying in Buch on Wednesday because I had no reason to be there that day. I walked around a little bit with Elder Patterson and went to the boboci meeting and that was pretty cool, because Elder Hardman has made me a grandpa. His boy's name is Elder Herrick and he seems really cool. Then we helped some missionaries get to the gara and catch trains back to their respective cities.
Mission council on Thursday was really good. I really like President Lundberg and the more I learn about him, the more I realize that he is exactly what Romania needs. He changed the whole way we count numbers, which really is just the way PMG teaches. It will change the way we work. Before we counted any discussion in which we taught a Gospel principle as a lesson. But now, we have to start and close with a prayer. So for example, you can never have a lesson street-contacting now. Instead it will more of an investment, collecting phone numbers and potential investigators. We'll see how it all works out. He also said that to go to the gym we have to get his permission. So Saturday night I called him up and talked to him. He said I was "the first brave soul" to ask. After explaining how we schedule it to still have full studies and telling him how much it's helped, he was ok with it. Today I went again and it felt really good. My companion is a big guy and he definitely loves working out, too. He has a lot of ideas that are helping me as well. For example, he has Nike bands that we do some exercises with at night and then before going to bed we do 30 push-ups. We'll see if I can't get more cut.
Elder Patterson is, of course, from Utah. He's about 6 foot maybe a little more, but he weighs a good 30+ pounds more than me and a lot of it is muscle. He has a build kind of like Jake. We get along really well and he is ready to work hard and tear it up this transfer.
We've set some really good goals for this transfer. In mission council, President mentioned how it usually takes 20 investigators to get a baptism and I told you last week that my big goal is to not leave Cluj without a baptism. So we started a countdown. We have 8 investigators now and so we're going to find at least 12 more throughout the transfer. If we get one and then he drops it still counts, because he was an investigator and that's how the statistic was formed. I'm really excited. We are also going to work hard again for weekly member exchanges and taking members to all our lessons with investigators.
The activity we had on Saturday was on becoming more like the Savior. My companion and I had a little presentation with it. We shared Matt. 12:48. Be perfect, easy, right? Then Ether 12:27, how we can become stronger. We shared the example of Peter and I think I rememer the verses right: Matt. 26: 69-75 he denies Christ three times, but then later in Acts 4 and 5 he stands in front of the Sanhedrin and boldly defends the Lord. What made the difference that a man who feared in front of a servant woman became one who defied courageously a full council of those most likely to kill him for what he had to say? It was good, I think, and those two sisters were there and also a man from one of our English classes.
Church was kind of lame, because yet again not a single investigator came to church. It's frustrating, because for almost 3 full transfers we always had at least one person, usually a lot more. But the last three weeks have been 0, 1, and 0. We set a goal, though, to never have that happen again. If none of our investigators come, we'll go on the street and invite people to come in until someone accepts.
Well, I am really excited for this next week and for working really hard. We have an incredible district, and zone, too. Sora Shepard is way cool and in her 3rd transfer she speaks well, but is super timid and reserved(mostly just in Romanian). I feel for her, though, because I still get way nervous everytime I stand up in front of people. I did at the activity.
Yeah, I'm pretty sure I'll be home before Christmas, though exactly when I haven't been told yet. It'll probably be in the middle of a transfer and so maybe I'll be put somewhere different for that if it's easier on the mission. In any case, I think after this transfer I'll become a district leader again and be somewhere for two or two and a half transfers. I would LOVE to train again, but we'll see.
About the film, the Hakes' computer still has problems. I have all the footage, though. I'm not sure you'll get to see it before I go home. I'll check it out again and see if I can do anything.
Well, you all have a great week. I love you!
Elder Ross
This last week was definitely an interesting one. It was so busy and full, that we had very little time to actually do missionary work. As a matter of fact, I think I got the worst numbers of my entire mission. I'll go on to talk about all the things that happened, but, needless to say, Elder Patterson and I are anxious to work super hard this week and get the transfer going right.
Monday and Tuesday I was here in Cluj with Elder Smith on exchange until we went down to Buch Tuesday night. I didn't get to do a lot of "my own" missionary work, because we were covering both his investigators and mine. It didn't help that our zones are very far apart. It was good, though, and on Monday night we took a wrong bus and ended up running into Adriana. I don't know if you remember, but she is one the girls that Elder Rigby and I met passing out fliers a few months back. She's the one that pretty much asked me out, lol. Anyway, she was happy to see me and was interested in English. Also, I invited her to an activity we had on Saturday and she and her sister, Alina, came. It was sweet. Oh, haha, and they brought me some sarmole which was way good! We were definitely led to find her. And now she'll be going to the sisters' English class and they can work with her, because we FOR SURE can't.
I was dying in Buch on Wednesday because I had no reason to be there that day. I walked around a little bit with Elder Patterson and went to the boboci meeting and that was pretty cool, because Elder Hardman has made me a grandpa. His boy's name is Elder Herrick and he seems really cool. Then we helped some missionaries get to the gara and catch trains back to their respective cities.
Mission council on Thursday was really good. I really like President Lundberg and the more I learn about him, the more I realize that he is exactly what Romania needs. He changed the whole way we count numbers, which really is just the way PMG teaches. It will change the way we work. Before we counted any discussion in which we taught a Gospel principle as a lesson. But now, we have to start and close with a prayer. So for example, you can never have a lesson street-contacting now. Instead it will more of an investment, collecting phone numbers and potential investigators. We'll see how it all works out. He also said that to go to the gym we have to get his permission. So Saturday night I called him up and talked to him. He said I was "the first brave soul" to ask. After explaining how we schedule it to still have full studies and telling him how much it's helped, he was ok with it. Today I went again and it felt really good. My companion is a big guy and he definitely loves working out, too. He has a lot of ideas that are helping me as well. For example, he has Nike bands that we do some exercises with at night and then before going to bed we do 30 push-ups. We'll see if I can't get more cut.
Elder Patterson is, of course, from Utah. He's about 6 foot maybe a little more, but he weighs a good 30+ pounds more than me and a lot of it is muscle. He has a build kind of like Jake. We get along really well and he is ready to work hard and tear it up this transfer.
We've set some really good goals for this transfer. In mission council, President mentioned how it usually takes 20 investigators to get a baptism and I told you last week that my big goal is to not leave Cluj without a baptism. So we started a countdown. We have 8 investigators now and so we're going to find at least 12 more throughout the transfer. If we get one and then he drops it still counts, because he was an investigator and that's how the statistic was formed. I'm really excited. We are also going to work hard again for weekly member exchanges and taking members to all our lessons with investigators.
The activity we had on Saturday was on becoming more like the Savior. My companion and I had a little presentation with it. We shared Matt. 12:48. Be perfect, easy, right? Then Ether 12:27, how we can become stronger. We shared the example of Peter and I think I rememer the verses right: Matt. 26: 69-75 he denies Christ three times, but then later in Acts 4 and 5 he stands in front of the Sanhedrin and boldly defends the Lord. What made the difference that a man who feared in front of a servant woman became one who defied courageously a full council of those most likely to kill him for what he had to say? It was good, I think, and those two sisters were there and also a man from one of our English classes.
Church was kind of lame, because yet again not a single investigator came to church. It's frustrating, because for almost 3 full transfers we always had at least one person, usually a lot more. But the last three weeks have been 0, 1, and 0. We set a goal, though, to never have that happen again. If none of our investigators come, we'll go on the street and invite people to come in until someone accepts.
Well, I am really excited for this next week and for working really hard. We have an incredible district, and zone, too. Sora Shepard is way cool and in her 3rd transfer she speaks well, but is super timid and reserved(mostly just in Romanian). I feel for her, though, because I still get way nervous everytime I stand up in front of people. I did at the activity.
Yeah, I'm pretty sure I'll be home before Christmas, though exactly when I haven't been told yet. It'll probably be in the middle of a transfer and so maybe I'll be put somewhere different for that if it's easier on the mission. In any case, I think after this transfer I'll become a district leader again and be somewhere for two or two and a half transfers. I would LOVE to train again, but we'll see.
About the film, the Hakes' computer still has problems. I have all the footage, though. I'm not sure you'll get to see it before I go home. I'll check it out again and see if I can do anything.
Well, you all have a great week. I love you!
Elder Ross
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Transfers and Close Calls
Hey Beautiful People!
This week was super busy and insane. We only got 5 lessons the whole week and it was all because we were so busy with tons of stuff: English fliers and sign-ups, zone conference and getting transfer calls.
So, big news first....I'm staying in Cluj!! I'm super excited. I'm going to be with Elder Patterson. He was with us in the MTC, he's one group behind me. Ok, now I have to tell you guys a secret. All this last transfer, the AP's and most everyone else said that either Elder Bringhurst and I are going to be assistant. At the beginning of the transfer, when I had an exchange with Elder Rigby, he went through all the people that I thought could be AP and told me why they wouldn't be, because they're forgetful or don't speak Romanian well enough, etc. Then he promised me that either Elder Bringhurst and I will be assistant. I was in the better position being senior, but it definitely was not something I wanted. I really wanted to keep doing normal missionary work and having investigators. Well, it so happened that neither of us are, Elder Bringhurst is going to Brasov to be a senior zone leader there. But the scary thing is that Elder Jepsen told me that when they finished the transfer board for the 1st time, I was placed as AP!! Later, they had the impression that they were trying to force it so that Elder Jepsen could get out(he wanted to super badly), but it just wasn't right and so our assistants remain Elder Jepsen and Rigby. Whew, close one...
Ok, I saw J's video and it was way good. Thanks a ton, J! I'm super stoked for being at college together and maybe even spending the summer together, making the big bucks. Really, I'm psyched to hear that! Do you think you will work at all when you're at college? I'm pretty sure I will need to, so maybe you'll keep an eye open for me when you're over there. Anyway, thanks a ton for the video! It was awesome.
So, in our district, Elder Smith went from junior to senior, district leader and trainer! He is a way big stud, though, so it will be great. Sora Runyan will be with Sora Shepard. It's kind of weird right now, because Elder Smith and I are the only missionaries in Cluj right now(and the Hakes). Elder Divis left this morning to go to Oradea (so he's still in my zone) and Elder Bringhurst took off to Brasov as well. We found out transfers Saturday morning so that everyone could pack and travel quickly.
In Oradea, Elder Roundy and Elder Manzione and got white-washed out and Elder Wilde is getting white-washed in with a boboc. Oh, and Elder Roundy is a zone leader now in Buch, Sec. 5. Elder Eyre is now district leader in Arad and Elder Divis is taking his place. Sora Peterson is leaving Oradea and Sora Poulsen is coming.
Man, I can't believe it. I'm going into my 13th transfer, very possibly my last one as zone leader and also my MTC sisters are going home in 2 days! I'm quickly becoming very aged in this mission. I have less than 5 months now. President Lundberg sure sounded like he will be sending us (or most of us from my group) home before Christmas.
Speaking of President, he is a really great guy! I like him a lot. He seems to really know what he wants to do. He has a lot of faith in us and expects a lot from us. I'm really excited to go to mission council and to see what kind of direction and ideas he will bring out. His wife is great, too. She gave a great presentation on their history with Romania. She started a foundation here called Bridge of Love, helping out orphans to find homes. Their son, Joshua, is 9 and he is ADHD, no joke. During the conference he did well, but after he went nuts and he never stopped moving and jumping around and having pretend fights with missionaries. He is a kid that would definitely require a lot of patience.
Our English sign-ups were ok, we got about 75 signed up. Yeah, we usually do that many fliers or moer. We got them all out, but it took up a lot of our week. 75 people signed-up isn't a lot, but it should be good. I'm really pumped for really trying to use English to get great investigators and baptisms. I'll be teaching beginners Tuesday at 7pm and Saturday at 11am. It'll be good. For example, in one of my classes there is a family of two parents and three kids and they were asking questions about the Church at sign-ups and also about the Book of Mormon. Let's see if I can't baptize a family this transfer. I've decided, by the way, that I'm not leaving Cluj after 4 transfers without a baptism. I'll get at least one, who knows if more. Doamna Mocean is doing great and so I'll start with her. She was our only investigator at church yesterday, but she is keeping her commitments and she feels the Spirit in every lesson. She's a very sweet lady.
Well, I better go so I can put the pictures up. I hope you all have an amazing week. I'm going to have one here! I love you
-- Elder Ross
p.s. it will be ok with music rules for me to have a CD. I can't wait to hear it! Btw, when did you send my journal? I haven't gotten it yet and I filled up my old one about 10 days ago and am getting behind. If I don't get it at mission council, I'll probably just buy one to use for a while. Thanks!
This week was super busy and insane. We only got 5 lessons the whole week and it was all because we were so busy with tons of stuff: English fliers and sign-ups, zone conference and getting transfer calls.
So, big news first....I'm staying in Cluj!! I'm super excited. I'm going to be with Elder Patterson. He was with us in the MTC, he's one group behind me. Ok, now I have to tell you guys a secret. All this last transfer, the AP's and most everyone else said that either Elder Bringhurst and I are going to be assistant. At the beginning of the transfer, when I had an exchange with Elder Rigby, he went through all the people that I thought could be AP and told me why they wouldn't be, because they're forgetful or don't speak Romanian well enough, etc. Then he promised me that either Elder Bringhurst and I will be assistant. I was in the better position being senior, but it definitely was not something I wanted. I really wanted to keep doing normal missionary work and having investigators. Well, it so happened that neither of us are, Elder Bringhurst is going to Brasov to be a senior zone leader there. But the scary thing is that Elder Jepsen told me that when they finished the transfer board for the 1st time, I was placed as AP!! Later, they had the impression that they were trying to force it so that Elder Jepsen could get out(he wanted to super badly), but it just wasn't right and so our assistants remain Elder Jepsen and Rigby. Whew, close one...
Ok, I saw J's video and it was way good. Thanks a ton, J! I'm super stoked for being at college together and maybe even spending the summer together, making the big bucks. Really, I'm psyched to hear that! Do you think you will work at all when you're at college? I'm pretty sure I will need to, so maybe you'll keep an eye open for me when you're over there. Anyway, thanks a ton for the video! It was awesome.
So, in our district, Elder Smith went from junior to senior, district leader and trainer! He is a way big stud, though, so it will be great. Sora Runyan will be with Sora Shepard. It's kind of weird right now, because Elder Smith and I are the only missionaries in Cluj right now(and the Hakes). Elder Divis left this morning to go to Oradea (so he's still in my zone) and Elder Bringhurst took off to Brasov as well. We found out transfers Saturday morning so that everyone could pack and travel quickly.
In Oradea, Elder Roundy and Elder Manzione and got white-washed out and Elder Wilde is getting white-washed in with a boboc. Oh, and Elder Roundy is a zone leader now in Buch, Sec. 5. Elder Eyre is now district leader in Arad and Elder Divis is taking his place. Sora Peterson is leaving Oradea and Sora Poulsen is coming.
Man, I can't believe it. I'm going into my 13th transfer, very possibly my last one as zone leader and also my MTC sisters are going home in 2 days! I'm quickly becoming very aged in this mission. I have less than 5 months now. President Lundberg sure sounded like he will be sending us (or most of us from my group) home before Christmas.
Speaking of President, he is a really great guy! I like him a lot. He seems to really know what he wants to do. He has a lot of faith in us and expects a lot from us. I'm really excited to go to mission council and to see what kind of direction and ideas he will bring out. His wife is great, too. She gave a great presentation on their history with Romania. She started a foundation here called Bridge of Love, helping out orphans to find homes. Their son, Joshua, is 9 and he is ADHD, no joke. During the conference he did well, but after he went nuts and he never stopped moving and jumping around and having pretend fights with missionaries. He is a kid that would definitely require a lot of patience.
Our English sign-ups were ok, we got about 75 signed up. Yeah, we usually do that many fliers or moer. We got them all out, but it took up a lot of our week. 75 people signed-up isn't a lot, but it should be good. I'm really pumped for really trying to use English to get great investigators and baptisms. I'll be teaching beginners Tuesday at 7pm and Saturday at 11am. It'll be good. For example, in one of my classes there is a family of two parents and three kids and they were asking questions about the Church at sign-ups and also about the Book of Mormon. Let's see if I can't baptize a family this transfer. I've decided, by the way, that I'm not leaving Cluj after 4 transfers without a baptism. I'll get at least one, who knows if more. Doamna Mocean is doing great and so I'll start with her. She was our only investigator at church yesterday, but she is keeping her commitments and she feels the Spirit in every lesson. She's a very sweet lady.
Well, I better go so I can put the pictures up. I hope you all have an amazing week. I'm going to have one here! I love you
-- Elder Ross
p.s. it will be ok with music rules for me to have a CD. I can't wait to hear it! Btw, when did you send my journal? I haven't gotten it yet and I filled up my old one about 10 days ago and am getting behind. If I don't get it at mission council, I'll probably just buy one to use for a while. Thanks!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
English fliers, a wedding and a baptism
Hey Everyone!
We had a great week here in Cluj Napoca, though we had a lot of things to do and that kept us from doing our normal missionary work. Those things include passing out English fliers, participating in Cosmin and Lavinia's wedding, and having a baptism. I'll go into those later.
But before I forget I wanted to respond to some of Dad's email. First of all, it sounds like the trek was really incredible and everyone learned a lot. I wish I could have been there, especially for the "stick pull". I'm pretty sure I would have whooped J. That is really, REALLY cool about the DeHuts. I'm so glad to hear that they are doing well and that Brother DeHut is getting his patriarchal blessing. I've definitely gained an even greater desire on my mission to be a diligent home teacher. I can't wait to get that assignment and go to work loving and helping my families.
Yeah, I do need my debit card and as soon as possible. I just looked at the one I have now and it expires at the end of this month. So, if you could send the new one, that'd probably be helpful. :) Yes, Mom, I saw the pictures from the reunion and my "proxy." Was that the best you guys could do? Haha, no it was great and I'm glad that you guys remembered me. I'm really going to love going to family reunions when I get back, especially after being gone all this time. And yeah, I love the family updates. A lot of times I don't comment, because I don't have a ton of time at internet. But it's great to hear what everyone is up to.
Ok, so this week wasn't the best for Elder Bringhurst and I as far as our investigators go. We met with as many as we could, but the forementioned events as well as an exchange we had with Elders Eyre and Despain from Oradea, we were really busy. And then Sunday was the worst....not a single investigator(of mine and Elder Bringhurst's. The others each had an investigator there) came to church. That was kind of rough. It's the first time it's happened since I've been in Cluj. We did our part, unfortunately they, for some reason, decided not to come. When I called Doamna Mocean, though, she said that she was thinking about us and she knew that she should have gone and she regretted not going. Maybe everything will work out and a lot of people will come next week, the last one of the transfer. Needless to say, we don't have a baptismal date right now.
About Daniel,(he went out to the countryside on Sunday) he is about 30. Not really sure, though. He is doing pretty well with his commitments, except for coming to church, obviously. He is really sincere and feels the Spirit strongly. Yeah, he is married and that is one of his problems, I think, if I can say that. Because his wife isn't too religious and he is scared of her. We always meet when she's not home. We'll see what happens.
Nothing exciting for most of the week. I had a good exchange with the boboc, Elder Despain. He is a cool guy and he's working hard to be a great missionary. We've started handing out fliers, but Elder Bringhurst and I have had hardly no time. We've gotten out maybe 100 and we have 3300 total for our companionship. That's what we'll be doing all day tomorrow, until we catch the train to Arad for zone conference.
The wedding was so great! Cosmin and Lavinia were so happy and they make such a sweet couple. Yeah, they're both members. Last night, they left for Germany where they'll be for a week. They'll be back next Sunday, though, so if I'm transferred I'll get to see them. So the ceremonies started at Cosmin's house(for us, some people started at Lavinia's) at 8am. After everyone had gathered and gotten ready, we hopped in cars and went to Lavinia's where he picked her up. There was a lot of music, they got a lot of pictures taken there and there were desserts and soda as well. After a little bit, we all went to a big park where the actual ceremony took place. This was at 10am. It's ridiculous how short the actual wedding is. They signed up for that time, 10, then waited while 3 or 4 other couples got hitched. The officiator said a few things, asked them for their "I do" and then they signed the paper. The end. After that, there was a cool service at the church(12pm), with talks focusing on the eternal nature of their marriage. Us missionaries and Bianca, Simona and Ilie(from Buch) sang a song on that topic. It went really well and Cosmin was tearing up as well as a few people in the audience. After that was the restaurant, the festivities there from 2pm until 10pm. We stayed until 4 and then left to have a lesson and get out the very few fliers we've gotten rid of. The pictures show the festivities better than I can explain. I'll try to remember to send them all next week.
Raluca's baptism was great. It was right after the 3 hour block. Sora Condurachi and Mihai Iepure both gave great talks. Calin performed the baptism. It was all really smooth and the Spirit was strong. So later that night, Elder Bringhurst and I had volunteered to take down the the font and to clean up. But when I looked at the tool I needed to unscrew the bars, I saw that it was super corroded. After a lot of hard work we were able to get maybe two screws out. I was kind of overwhelmed. I had no idea how to do it and it didn't seem possible. But the thought came to me to pray and as I prayed the words came to me. I prayed for strength to be able to get it done. Right after that we started going to work and even though a lot of the screws were really hard, we were able to disassemble the entire thing, do all the clean up and put it away. I know that there is no possible way we could have done that without the Lord's help. It was a cool miracle.
Well, I think I'll go now. I hope you all have a great week. I love you!
We had a great week here in Cluj Napoca, though we had a lot of things to do and that kept us from doing our normal missionary work. Those things include passing out English fliers, participating in Cosmin and Lavinia's wedding, and having a baptism. I'll go into those later.
But before I forget I wanted to respond to some of Dad's email. First of all, it sounds like the trek was really incredible and everyone learned a lot. I wish I could have been there, especially for the "stick pull". I'm pretty sure I would have whooped J. That is really, REALLY cool about the DeHuts. I'm so glad to hear that they are doing well and that Brother DeHut is getting his patriarchal blessing. I've definitely gained an even greater desire on my mission to be a diligent home teacher. I can't wait to get that assignment and go to work loving and helping my families.
Yeah, I do need my debit card and as soon as possible. I just looked at the one I have now and it expires at the end of this month. So, if you could send the new one, that'd probably be helpful. :) Yes, Mom, I saw the pictures from the reunion and my "proxy." Was that the best you guys could do? Haha, no it was great and I'm glad that you guys remembered me. I'm really going to love going to family reunions when I get back, especially after being gone all this time. And yeah, I love the family updates. A lot of times I don't comment, because I don't have a ton of time at internet. But it's great to hear what everyone is up to.
Ok, so this week wasn't the best for Elder Bringhurst and I as far as our investigators go. We met with as many as we could, but the forementioned events as well as an exchange we had with Elders Eyre and Despain from Oradea, we were really busy. And then Sunday was the worst....not a single investigator(of mine and Elder Bringhurst's. The others each had an investigator there) came to church. That was kind of rough. It's the first time it's happened since I've been in Cluj. We did our part, unfortunately they, for some reason, decided not to come. When I called Doamna Mocean, though, she said that she was thinking about us and she knew that she should have gone and she regretted not going. Maybe everything will work out and a lot of people will come next week, the last one of the transfer. Needless to say, we don't have a baptismal date right now.
About Daniel,(he went out to the countryside on Sunday) he is about 30. Not really sure, though. He is doing pretty well with his commitments, except for coming to church, obviously. He is really sincere and feels the Spirit strongly. Yeah, he is married and that is one of his problems, I think, if I can say that. Because his wife isn't too religious and he is scared of her. We always meet when she's not home. We'll see what happens.
Nothing exciting for most of the week. I had a good exchange with the boboc, Elder Despain. He is a cool guy and he's working hard to be a great missionary. We've started handing out fliers, but Elder Bringhurst and I have had hardly no time. We've gotten out maybe 100 and we have 3300 total for our companionship. That's what we'll be doing all day tomorrow, until we catch the train to Arad for zone conference.
The wedding was so great! Cosmin and Lavinia were so happy and they make such a sweet couple. Yeah, they're both members. Last night, they left for Germany where they'll be for a week. They'll be back next Sunday, though, so if I'm transferred I'll get to see them. So the ceremonies started at Cosmin's house(for us, some people started at Lavinia's) at 8am. After everyone had gathered and gotten ready, we hopped in cars and went to Lavinia's where he picked her up. There was a lot of music, they got a lot of pictures taken there and there were desserts and soda as well. After a little bit, we all went to a big park where the actual ceremony took place. This was at 10am. It's ridiculous how short the actual wedding is. They signed up for that time, 10, then waited while 3 or 4 other couples got hitched. The officiator said a few things, asked them for their "I do" and then they signed the paper. The end. After that, there was a cool service at the church(12pm), with talks focusing on the eternal nature of their marriage. Us missionaries and Bianca, Simona and Ilie(from Buch) sang a song on that topic. It went really well and Cosmin was tearing up as well as a few people in the audience. After that was the restaurant, the festivities there from 2pm until 10pm. We stayed until 4 and then left to have a lesson and get out the very few fliers we've gotten rid of. The pictures show the festivities better than I can explain. I'll try to remember to send them all next week.
Raluca's baptism was great. It was right after the 3 hour block. Sora Condurachi and Mihai Iepure both gave great talks. Calin performed the baptism. It was all really smooth and the Spirit was strong. So later that night, Elder Bringhurst and I had volunteered to take down the the font and to clean up. But when I looked at the tool I needed to unscrew the bars, I saw that it was super corroded. After a lot of hard work we were able to get maybe two screws out. I was kind of overwhelmed. I had no idea how to do it and it didn't seem possible. But the thought came to me to pray and as I prayed the words came to me. I prayed for strength to be able to get it done. Right after that we started going to work and even though a lot of the screws were really hard, we were able to disassemble the entire thing, do all the clean up and put it away. I know that there is no possible way we could have done that without the Lord's help. It was a cool miracle.
Well, I think I'll go now. I hope you all have a great week. I love you!
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
A Better Week!
Hey Great People!
Yeah, this week was a lot better than last week, just because we had lots of great chances to work hard and to find some people that are interested. Also, this last week we had some fun things with Elder Smith's birthday, my companion's and my 18-month mark and the 4th of July. God bless America!
The big highlight of the week is gaining a sweet investigator. His name is Daniel and we went to him last Monday. We actually first found him two weeks before that but we weren't able to meet again until last week. Anyway, he blew us away with his openness to the Spirit and his willingness to do what it takes to draw closer to God. Daniel told us how he wants to work with us, haha. He said he'll read about 20 pages from the Book of Mormon in between visits(plus any chapter we might assign to him) and that he wants to meet at least once a week, preferably twice a week. He also said that soon he'll be in concediu(meaning he has like a month off from work) in which he'll still be at home and then he wants to meet 3 times a week if possible! No complaints from us. We went again Friday night and we took Mihai with us. We had such a good lesson on the Plan of Salvation. He is super smart and remembers stuff really well. He was impressed, too, that he can be with his wife in heaven. As many people believe, he thought everyone would just be single angels in heaven. Mihai was talking to us afterwards and he said he was really impressed with Daniel and thought that he was really open and smart. Mihai said he'd be happy to come again and just listen, haha. We're going back with him on Tuesday and we definitely won't let Mihai just listen. Unfortunately, Daniel wasn't aware that he could bring his little girl to church and he was stuck baby-sitting. Well, at least now he knows and he should be there next week.
We had an exchange with the elders here in Cluj. My companion set up a sweet day with Elder Smith in which they had 4 lessons scattered throughout the day, a pretty sweet set-up. I went to Elder Divis' area and we had one lesson at 7pm....so we bloc-knocked for probably 5 hours and had virtually no success for almost all of it. At the very end we got one lesson, but in the end the guy was firm in his belief that no of the churches are true, it doesn't matter if you are part of one, you just need to read from the Bible and live it. The lesson they had set-up was a really cool new investigator, though. His name is Gabi and he was really excited when we gave him the Book of Mormon. He said he that by this next Sunday coming(a week and a half from when we met with him) he would be done with reading it, 100%! Pretty impressive. He said he couldn't make it to church this Sunday, but that he'll be there this next Sunday coming up. A way solid guy.
So I didn't end up burning my pants. They were still good enough and I couldn't imagine buying another pair. So Elder Bringhurst burned one leg of his pants and I burned the other. It was a pretty good compromise, because he was 5 pairs of pants(he has 2-pant suits) and some of them are pretty nasty actually. I'll send pictures sometimes.
I started putting subtitles in the rest of our missionary movie, but unfortunately, viruses started taking over the Hakes' computer again. They lost their connection to the internet and so Calin took it to his house to work on it. Because of that I wasn't able to finish and to send it. We have it backed on a CD, so it's just a matter of when. It will get done eventually.
For the 4th of July we had a big lunch at the Hakes'. We had barbecued chicken, corn on the cob, mashed potatoes and best of all, a cherry pie. I was a great meal and a good way to celebrate our great nation.
Sunday was pretty good, though only 4 investigators came to church: Alex and 3 of the Militaru's(the mom, Gabi and Maria. Cristi was on some kind of trip). The worst was when at the end of sacrament meeting(there were some great testimonies given) President Condurachi stood up and proceeded to give an anti-"every missionary a member" talk. I could believe it! He said that all the members need to do is to pray, come to church and activities and not worry when others don't come. And then the Lord will bless the missionaries to have success knocking on people's doors. I can't think of anything more the exact opposite of Elder David A. Bednar's talk, Ask in Faith. Apparently, during FHE he also said that God created demons and that resurrected people can put their bodies aside, both clearly false. We are going off with the Hakes this week and we'll translate for them as they talk to him.
The 28-year old girl, Valentina, went to the countryside again on Sunday. She's still really cool and open, it just hasn't become a priority yet. We also didn't really have a chance to meet with her, because she had things come up. I believe that they were legitimate but we haven't been able to give her to the sisters yet because of that.
This next week should be a good one. We are really striving to get a baptismal date and also to get a lot of investigators at church. It should be a good one. We have an exchange with the other elders in Oradea and I'll be with the boboc, Elder Despain. Man, I can still remember like
yesterday when I was the boboc going with the zone leaders! This Sunday Raluca will get baptized which will be sweet, especially that her boys will get to grow in the Church. Also, Cosmin and Lavinia are getting married this week. So I'll tell you all about the ceremonies and traditions next week. I'm excited for them.
Well, all of you have a great week. I love you tons!
Elder Ross
Yeah, this week was a lot better than last week, just because we had lots of great chances to work hard and to find some people that are interested. Also, this last week we had some fun things with Elder Smith's birthday, my companion's and my 18-month mark and the 4th of July. God bless America!
The big highlight of the week is gaining a sweet investigator. His name is Daniel and we went to him last Monday. We actually first found him two weeks before that but we weren't able to meet again until last week. Anyway, he blew us away with his openness to the Spirit and his willingness to do what it takes to draw closer to God. Daniel told us how he wants to work with us, haha. He said he'll read about 20 pages from the Book of Mormon in between visits(plus any chapter we might assign to him) and that he wants to meet at least once a week, preferably twice a week. He also said that soon he'll be in concediu(meaning he has like a month off from work) in which he'll still be at home and then he wants to meet 3 times a week if possible! No complaints from us. We went again Friday night and we took Mihai with us. We had such a good lesson on the Plan of Salvation. He is super smart and remembers stuff really well. He was impressed, too, that he can be with his wife in heaven. As many people believe, he thought everyone would just be single angels in heaven. Mihai was talking to us afterwards and he said he was really impressed with Daniel and thought that he was really open and smart. Mihai said he'd be happy to come again and just listen, haha. We're going back with him on Tuesday and we definitely won't let Mihai just listen. Unfortunately, Daniel wasn't aware that he could bring his little girl to church and he was stuck baby-sitting. Well, at least now he knows and he should be there next week.
We had an exchange with the elders here in Cluj. My companion set up a sweet day with Elder Smith in which they had 4 lessons scattered throughout the day, a pretty sweet set-up. I went to Elder Divis' area and we had one lesson at 7pm....so we bloc-knocked for probably 5 hours and had virtually no success for almost all of it. At the very end we got one lesson, but in the end the guy was firm in his belief that no of the churches are true, it doesn't matter if you are part of one, you just need to read from the Bible and live it. The lesson they had set-up was a really cool new investigator, though. His name is Gabi and he was really excited when we gave him the Book of Mormon. He said he that by this next Sunday coming(a week and a half from when we met with him) he would be done with reading it, 100%! Pretty impressive. He said he couldn't make it to church this Sunday, but that he'll be there this next Sunday coming up. A way solid guy.
So I didn't end up burning my pants. They were still good enough and I couldn't imagine buying another pair. So Elder Bringhurst burned one leg of his pants and I burned the other. It was a pretty good compromise, because he was 5 pairs of pants(he has 2-pant suits) and some of them are pretty nasty actually. I'll send pictures sometimes.
I started putting subtitles in the rest of our missionary movie, but unfortunately, viruses started taking over the Hakes' computer again. They lost their connection to the internet and so Calin took it to his house to work on it. Because of that I wasn't able to finish and to send it. We have it backed on a CD, so it's just a matter of when. It will get done eventually.
For the 4th of July we had a big lunch at the Hakes'. We had barbecued chicken, corn on the cob, mashed potatoes and best of all, a cherry pie. I was a great meal and a good way to celebrate our great nation.
Sunday was pretty good, though only 4 investigators came to church: Alex and 3 of the Militaru's(the mom, Gabi and Maria. Cristi was on some kind of trip). The worst was when at the end of sacrament meeting(there were some great testimonies given) President Condurachi stood up and proceeded to give an anti-"every missionary a member" talk. I could believe it! He said that all the members need to do is to pray, come to church and activities and not worry when others don't come. And then the Lord will bless the missionaries to have success knocking on people's doors. I can't think of anything more the exact opposite of Elder David A. Bednar's talk, Ask in Faith. Apparently, during FHE he also said that God created demons and that resurrected people can put their bodies aside, both clearly false. We are going off with the Hakes this week and we'll translate for them as they talk to him.
The 28-year old girl, Valentina, went to the countryside again on Sunday. She's still really cool and open, it just hasn't become a priority yet. We also didn't really have a chance to meet with her, because she had things come up. I believe that they were legitimate but we haven't been able to give her to the sisters yet because of that.
This next week should be a good one. We are really striving to get a baptismal date and also to get a lot of investigators at church. It should be a good one. We have an exchange with the other elders in Oradea and I'll be with the boboc, Elder Despain. Man, I can still remember like
yesterday when I was the boboc going with the zone leaders! This Sunday Raluca will get baptized which will be sweet, especially that her boys will get to grow in the Church. Also, Cosmin and Lavinia are getting married this week. So I'll tell you all about the ceremonies and traditions next week. I'm excited for them.
Well, all of you have a great week. I love you tons!
Elder Ross
Sunday, July 6, 2008
18-month Mark
Hey Everyone!
That's pretty exciting that you guys get to be at a family reunion. I'm sure it will be a blast for you. Life here in Cluj isn't too exciting right now to be honest. This last week was kind of a low, a lot of things not working out and not too many people coming to church. One of the new investigators we were working with went home for summer vacation and isn't back until October. A lot of things are going to slow down pretty quickly in that Cluj's population is cut in half as all the students go home.
Church wasn't super great, mostly because there were so few investigators. Last week our district had 13 investigators and this week we had 2! Of our 7, only Alex was there yesterday. I have no idea where Ionut and the Militaru's were and Doamna Mocean said she wouldn't be able to make it this week.
The week of missionary work wasn't that great, either. We didn't have a ton of lessons and stuff just went a lot slower it seemed. We did have to spend big chunks of two days making the English fliers that we'll be giving out in a couple of weeks and that hurt us. My best day was actually Saturday when I was in Oradea on exchange with Elder Manzione. We worked pretty hard, had 6 lessons and actually found this guy that is a former investigator that wants to learn more and to come to church. He's a young father and he has a bling house. Hopefully everything goes well with him.
Elder Bringhurst and I did find one really cool new investigator this week. It was sweet because it was at the end of the night and we just finished with a lesson and it was like 8:20. We totally could have gone home and that would have been normal. But I said, hey let's try one more scara(part of a bloc with about 10 apartments). On the very 1st door we knocked, this really cool girl, 28 years old, let us in and we had a way quality lesson with her. She's really open and really wanted to read the Book of Mormon so we went back the next night and gave her one and had another good lesson, talking about prayer and how she can get an answer from God. This week we'll go over with the sisters and then they will start working with her. Needless to say she is actually super attractive. I really hope she continues to progress. She could be golden.
Well, the week is over and a new week has started. It really is a new beginning of sorts, especially with a new mission president. The office elders told me that President Lundberg is a really cool guy and that they are excited for what is following. We're going to work hard and try to make this a great week.
Raluca's baptism is on the 14th of July. I have no idea who will baptize her. Probably one of the members. That is always the best anyway. As district leader, Elder Divis will do the baptismal interview.
Well, too be honest, I don't have much to write. It was a really boring week. No great updates at all. Thanks for those way funny stories about J and his phone. That made me laugh. I hope you all have a great time at the reunion. I will try to send the rest of the missionary video. I'm not sure we'll have time, because today is Elder Smith's birthday and we're all kind of doing what he wants. I think we might have some time to get over to the Hakes' and send it, though. We'll see.
I love you guys. Have an amazing week! I love you!
Elder Ross
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