Tuesday, October 11, 2016

Exchanges and Half Mission

Hey y'all!
This week has been one for the books!  Sister Jensen and I had two exchanges this week, as well as MLC, Half Mission Conference, and a Baptism!  This week has been packed full of tender mercies.  I know that Heavenly Father is so aware of me and the people that Sister Jensen and I get the privilege of working with.  

The busy-ness of the week started off on Tuesday after district meeting.  I went to the beautiful Eufaula Alabama with Sister Olson.  She is a fabulous Sister Missionary.  She just cares so much about her work and the people they teach.  I had a lot of fun with her and hope i get another chance to go on an exchange with her.  Eufaula is BEAUTIFUL!!  Alabama is just BEAUTIFUL!  If I ever live in the south, I will live in Alabama.   We went to what is called the Shorter Mansion.  Its a beautiful old mansion in Eufaula.  Its now a museum filled with the rich history of this cute little town.  I just love things like this, so I couldn't resist.  Apparently, this mansion is featured in the movie "Sweet Home Alabama!!



              


Thursday was the day we had MLC (Mission Leadership Council) with President and Sister Smith, along with Elder Sitati, who was touring the mission with his wife.  We receive a lot of wise council from Elder Sitati and his wife.  They are such intelligent people.  They are originally from Kenya.  So it was really cool to hear how they became members of the church and see how far he has come.  We learned a lot about how we as missionaries need to be converted to the gospel before we go and teach it to others.  Our soul purpose is to invite others to come unto Christ.  As we do so, we come unto him.  I have seen that come to pass over the course of my mission.  The more I search for Christ and seek for the power of His Atonement, I have come closer to him.  I have been blessed to see my own testimony grow into a life long conversion.  I am so grateful for our Savior for taking upon himself the sins of the world.  I know I would not be able to serve a full time mission without the help, strength and support of the savior.  

The Half mission conference was not only edifying, but it was fun to see some friends that i have made over the course of my mission. I got to see my lovely Sister Richins!!  She is doing so well in Bonifay!  I got to see some people i was in the MTC with.  Its crazy how 16 months have flown right on by.  Also, there is an Elder Wood, so I couldn't resist getting a picture.  

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One of the biggest highlights of the week, however, was Eli getting "BABATIZED."  (that is how he says it hehe)  I just really love this small human.  He is such a joy to be around.  Sister Jensen and I were so blown away by his knowledge and understanding of the gospel every time we taught him.  He was a little nervous for his baptism, but he did it!  He just glowed!!  Then, Sunday rolls around.  Sister Jensen are at the church meeting with the Elders, and all of a sudden we get a call from Eli's grandma, Sister Ponder.  She told us that Eli was not wanting to come to church to get confirmed.  He was scared to sit in front of the whole congregation and get confirmed.  I asked if I could talk to Eli.  He hesitantly got on the phone.  I asked him what he was feeling.  He was really nervous.  I did my best to comfort him and help him feel better about coming.  After I talked to him, i just got this overwhelming feeling of peace.  I knew that everything was going to be okay.  He showed up!!  Elder Van Confirmed him.  It was a wonderful blessing.  It talked about how Eli will someday hold the Priesthood, and be able to bless his family and many others.  It also talked about how he will serve a mission!  Sister Jensen and I are feeling so blessed and privileged to be part of Eli's journey of discipleship.  This little boy will grow up to do great things if he relies on the companionship of the spirit.  


      

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I am just loving every moment of my time here in the Florida Tallahassee Mission. Heavenly Father has blessed me with such great friends and people to love and serve. He knew exactly what i needed this week, and that was support from my dear friends.  I got to see a good amount of them this week.  This church, and restored gospel is nothing but true!  I am inspired more and more to deepen my conversion and understanding of the Gospel.  The more i learn, the more i want to share what i know with others.  

Y'all have a fabulous week!  Know that Sister Wood Loves and misses y'all!  
Peace and Blessings! ​

Sister Melissa Jean Wood 

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