Well, another great week has passed here in Vlore. Elder Fowles and I often look at each other in our short sleeves and say. "Wait, it's October?" That changed this week with cold spells coming in, and I'm glad I get to wear my suits, sweaters, and jackets again (when I pulled them out, they smelled like Prishtina).
This week, I realized that I needed to utilize my 2nd middle name and spread the spirit of Elijah. In priesthood meeting, I said that I knew how to help with family history and one of our recent members said he was interested. Well, when we went over to his house, he pulled out a stack of 20 papers, each one containing a name birth and death date, of his parents, grandparents, and deceased aunts and uncles. I was shocked and we went right to work! His sick mother was in the next room, so he would spryly jump up--He's about 50--, run into his mom's room, and run back in saying, "Pashaj! Her last name is Pashaj!" We were able to complete up to his great-grandparents and will go back this week and get the rest done! The best part was that he started committing himself to come to church, and to meet again. I don't know how it works, but working with your ancestors does something to ya! Actually I do know! And I take great comfort from Alma which says:
''For behold, angels are declaring it unto many at this time in our land; and this is for the purpose of preparing the hearts of the children of men to receive his word at the time of his coming in his glory.''
From this scripture, not only do we learn that angels are among us, but that they are preparing all the hearts of the children of men, member and non-member alike for the truths that the gospel offers. Who are those angels. I think our ancestors. So if they're all baptized, all the better right?
And so with this as one of our tools in our side-bags, we talked to 2 other families about this, and one has already scheduled a time to meet with her father to gather all the information. Again, the best part is then seeing these families' countenances change, their attendance to church increase, and their testimonies grow. Really, anytime I wonder, "What should we teach them, we've tried everything?" I feel the eternal connection of family come into my mind. Now, this isn't for everyone, but it can be. First, you've got to make the tool usable in your hands, and then God will use it. Thankfully, right now, Heavenly Father has placed 2 Elders in a companionship, who both have LARGE families, so the spirit really is behind our message.
Also, thank you so much for your faith and prayers. Kristi is progressing well towards his baptismal date on Nov 7. He asked last lesson, "So, this authority, how can I get it!" Our answer (simply and commitingly put): 1)come to church for 3 hours in a white shirt in tie 2)come a half hour early 3)and you'll serve 2 families when you receive it 4)and it has to be your DESIRE to serve! I've realized that by giving him things to DO, that he will do it and then, with time he starts to understand why. When we decided to do this with him, I thought back to my own priesthood service and all the things I DID. Because of the things I did, I have a testimony of why we serve, how we serve, and can in turn teach others.
On the subject of Priesthood, this week we got a complete bishopric! We are excited to work with a full functioning ward (almost). The past two days we've been able to go out with a couple 14yr priesthood holders and have showed them how to teach and serve. I'm so grateful for all that I've been taught. I'd like to publicly (or however public this letter is, by the way it sounds, mom sends it to everyone) thank brother Ralph Van der Beek, my first home teaching companion. He taught me to love and prepare for our families. Because of those visits, I know how to teach, I know WHY to teach. Like President Eyring said in his talk about the Preparatory Priesthood, experienced priesthood holders truly can effect the minds and hearts of those they serve with. I'll always have a love for those families. Please give my love to the Parrishes, sister Muriel Aldrige, the Mills, and the couple ( I can't believe I forgot their name) that lives in California during the year, but here during the summer, (he's a math teacher, but retired, and they are close to the Taylors who live next door)
I know that prayer can change the night to day. I know that God will answer because he is bound to do so...if you are obedient. So thats the real question. Am I obedient? What more can I do to be more converted? Lord, is it I? If anyone is looking for help/answers to prayer, have that interview with yourself in Alma 5, repent, and ask again, this time with love. I know it works, I've done it, and I pray I'll continue to do it. Oh, o o I believe there angels among us!
I love you all, It sounds like life is happening back at the farm (literaly) Paç fat with everything (good luck). I pray for you all.
Love your son and brother,
Elder Bangerter
P.S. Happy happy birthday Lauren!
Pictures- 1) Claire, the little boy of Alida's (She wrote a letter to this mother that is investigating the church)
2)Yellow on the 26th
3)A banner is unfurled!
4)Filling up the font!
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