Lessons learned and a new calling

Monday

Well we had a zone activity and it was really fun. Last week we gave everyone a challenge to put 2 people on Baptismal date, have a companionship study every day, and to find two new investigators with the area book. Well nobody did it but everyone tried... so we all came down and played basketball! We played District vs District. My district took second place which was discouraging, Elder Jewkes, Flake, Huntington and Mulabe won. 

But we played for like 3 or four hours! I was so tired! so I went home and took a three hour nap! I felt So much better after that!

Then we started our exchange with Elder Mulabe (works in Kimberly and is from Zambia) and Elder Huntington (Spanish-fork Utah). I worked with Elder Mulabe tonight. Our first appointment was  at 5:30 and I had No Idea who it was for? so we got in the car and started driving to the area and at 5:28 Sister Mohloko called and confirmed that we were still coming! Blessed! we had a really good lesson with the Mohloko family, the father is not a member but his entire family is. Both his sons served mission and one is married in the Temple and his youngest, Karabo, is In Cape Town right now! We taught him about the restoration.. well most of it, we decided to take it really slow and make sure he understands that Christ had a church and that it is the ONE True church (Ephesians 4:5). We taught that the One true church should be run exactly the same, with Apostles Prophets, and has to Believe that we can only be saved by obedience to the commandments and faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:19-20). Then we explained more about how GOD chooses the Prophet and that the Prophet and Apostles MUST have Permission given to them By God so that they can perform Sacred Ordinances, this authority we call "the Priesthood" (Mathew 16:15-19). Then we told him what happened to those Apostles after Christ died (Mathew 24:9-12). and we explained how because of Wicked People the Authority was lost and it Resulted in the formation of many false Churches that are being led without Permission from God which leads to much False Doctrine (Amos 8:11-12).

Next time we'll Explain how God Brought it back through the Prophet Joseph Smith:)

Tuesday

Well I was with Elder Mulabe today.. We did some tracting in Namibia and that was fun:) then we had lunch. Then we went to Siles' house and read with him Alma 7 and prayed that his court case goes well and that he gets his job back. They accused him of stealing money from the petrol Station so I guess we'll see if he's guilty or not?

Afterwards we visited brother Mokgadi and got him PUMPED UP for his Baptismal interview:) He should be done smoking so that's a relief!:) He wants to be baptized so bad!!! Then we tried to visit some other people but they weren't home.. so we drove to Kimberly and spent the night. 

Elder Huntington and Cobinah had a great day! It was really fun talking and catching up and stuff.. the Only Problem is that we stayed up till 1:00am that was a mistake!

Wednesday June 13th, 2018

Well We drove home then our car died. That was a shame. We had plans ready to go but we had to move them cause they're really far! We called Elder Hicks and he wanted us to wait at our boarding so he could look at the car and sure enough it didn't work.. but he drove us all to his house and I skyped my Amazing Family for our Late Mothers Day Call! Max is gonna go to Peru for his Mission Leaves October 10th. I guess I'll see him for Christmas! I guess My family will have a Farewell Mission party and then, two weeks Later, a Welcome home mission party! that'll be funny! haha Max will be learning Spanish in the MTC for probably 6 weeks... that'll be enjoyable.. haha But at least he'll speak a Really common Language really well when he gets back:) then he can speak to all the Mexicans in Oregon.... there's too many. He'll probably marry some Hispanic lady too!

Well today I was on a bike Sculpting me some nice Christiano Ronaldo Legs! And Might I add they're looking pretty nice! *Insert Fire Emoji*

We biked to Gibsons house and we had a really good lesson about the Plan of Salvation! they Loved it:) I'm really excited for them!

Thursday 

well we had no car and Thaba Nchu needed three Baptismal interviews so LUCKILY the Hicks were going there for Boarding checks and they gave us a ride. everyone passed but holy cow I got dropped off by Nu'usa and Gehlbach at the last persons house that neededto be interviewed. It went well and then we started walking home. I was kinda confused like "Why are we headed home so soon its only 3:30?" but I kept quiet. so we walked... and walked... and walked.. aaaanndd walked, (I felt Kinda like the pioneers in the Childrens hymn book) and we finally got home TWO hours later and it was dark! solid day.

Friday June 15th

Today was a bad day. well besides the fact that all our appointments bunked maybe I can explain the last thing that happened. Well we took Elder Lowe and Pantoe to Mcdonald's in town and I forgot the GPS it was late so I got kinda lost on the way there. When we got to McDonald's they Didn't even have Milkshakes, allotment was in so We all wanted milkshakes, so we left to go find another McDonalds in town. we FINALLY found a McDonalds and guess what!! They didn't have Peanut Butter Milkshakes either, so I settled with Strawberry which I drank on the way home. I then ordered a Share box combo to split with elder Lowe, I was excited because I got a Spicy Cajun Chicken and I was starving. We took a vote and decided to get it to go. So were goin home and I'm drinking my milkshake, I ordered a large... They gave me a medium... I'm driven, I'm driven, still driving, kinda lost, play it cool like I know whats happening, keep driving, now Im super lost... everyones dying in the back cause were all hungry, I finally find out where I am... Wrong side of town and we make it home after and HOUR of driving. Im on the home stretch I see the Boarding, elder Lowe gives me some Fries, they're cold now. But it's okay I still had my Cajun Chicken that I'm looking forward to. Then we get into the boarding, I was just super excited to eat and I open the bag and.... wait a second? wheres my... Wait? THEY FORGOT TO GIVE ME MY CAJUN CHICKEN BURGER AND ALL I HAVE TO EAT IS A BUNCH OF COLD FRIES AND A SMALL SPRITE!!!!!!!!!! I quit. Missions over, I'm going home. 

on the bright side, Our car is fixed and it wasnt me that broke it! There is a little chip in our car key that broke? thats what they told us? So they cut us a new key and the car works great!! woohoo!! I dont need to bike to Grasslands 10Ks there and 10Ks back tomorrow!:)

Saturday June 16th, 2018

BROTHER MOKGADI PASSED HIS BAPTISMAL INTERVIEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! yeah... that's all I really Need to report. I am very very very excited for him:)

we also saw Gibson, The Sicue family, the fefa family, went and saw that same guy from malawi and tried to see Sisanda:) Good day!

Oh after brother Mokgadi Passed his baptismal interview I SMS'd Elder Lahue, one of the missionaries that taught him in the passed, Right now he is serving in Amanzimototi (My first Area). Well Guess who else passed their Baptismal interview, MARY JANE'S SON! I baptized Mary-Jane last year and she didnt pass her baptismal interview 4 times in a row but we all kept trying now she's been sharing the gospel with her family. He's 24 and apparently he is super prepared and loving the gospel!! I'm extremely happy to see the blessings that come from hard work and obedience:)

Sunday

Mokgadi came to church, Elder Lowe was supposed to give a talk and he planned for 30 minutes like they said and he ended up only having 30 SECONDS so he gave his testimony. A rare sight in SA! usually the say 30 minutes and you have to go for almost 45, poor guy. Well, either way, I guess I'll take his notes and give his talk next week:) Woop woop! And next week Mokgadi will be baptized!!:)

Good Week.

lots of pictures next week!

Next email--- yep this is transfer week, Saturday we will see what happens!:) I'm really happy max is going out of state, I was nervous he would stay! 

Grandpa is looking good! He looks like he's being fed more too!! haha Tell him that I love him:)

right now all of S.A. Is going crazy about soccer and the World Cup! I asked and peru is in so max should follow them! They lost their first preGame:/

A few hours later---  I just got the phone call. I'm being called to be an assistant to the president. Im so scared!!

An hour later--  i'm Buying a new suit. I need to look like a Leader!! I love you.

Catching up on emails- Only 4 more months!!

Monday

Today was Awesome!!!! We Picked up Bloemfontein, Bloemanda, and Rocklands 1 and we played basketball for like three hours!!! It was awesome! Elder Flake is ridiculously good. Next time we're gonna have a dunk contest!

we tried to teach a few lessons but not much came from it. at the end of the day Elder Lowe and I played catch in the parking lot of the Complex.

Tuesday 

We had a "Powerful Lesson" With some new investigators that we found. (Heavy Sarcasm). They invited us over and Sister Tsoeu was going to come with us because they're her friends and Mom. We were waiting for sister Tsoeu and we decided to just go in and start because we didn't have a lot of time. So we figured we would Start the lesson and she would join half way through.. However, we went inside and Everyone was Super Drunk and laughing not paying attention. But when we Said Hi they all Put on a smile and invited us in because they wanted to hear the message. so we couldn't reschedule and come back when everyone was sober, because sister Tsoeu was on her way. So we started teaching. they asked a few good questions but the spirit wasn't really there because some guy with one leg kept falling off his chair because he drank too much... Him falling off his chair basically summed up the whole meeting.

In the end sister Tsoeu never showed up. That was pretty frustrating! haha

However, we had a great lesson with Joseph about Church and Baptism. We were very Bold and I think he understands that were serious and we want to help him:) Hopefully, he will come to church:)

Wednesday 5-30

We had interviews with President Thompson and either it went really well or not... it was only 6 minutes... hahaha it was so nice! haha Nah, I'm just kidding it went well:) He's super nice!

we visited Mokgadi today and we told him more about the Priesthood and he asked for a blessing. Later that night we came with all of Rocklands and we gave him a blessing:) the Spirit was very strong:) I'm excited for him.

After which, I called stake president because he was planned to speak for Zone conference tomorrow and elder Cobinah and I are in charge of it:) but, he said he's not going to make it. Soooooo... I planned a third lesson that I would give. Seriously, Elder Cobinah didn't want to do anything. So he's going to give a 30-minute lesson, and I'll teach Leadership meeting, give another Lesson, and lead everyone in a discussion, and conduct the meeting. Luckily Leder Lowe and I are both giving a talk so I'm excited about that.

Thursday 5-31

Good news. Zone conference was a huge success. I taught Leadership about Unity and Love and how we can help our District members be happier(20 Minutes). then President Thompson talked about Repentance and Baptismal Interviews.

I loved Conducting it was so much fun:)) I'm just happy I didn't end up saying something silly and Looking like a fool up there! And I didn't! so I'd say it was a success! Elder Lowe and I gave a lesson about Integrity and I feel it went well too:) Elder Cobinah didn't have a lot of time to speak so he had to shorten his lesson down from 30minutes to about 15 or 20. However he ended up going for over 45 minutes... therefore, we didn't have to do the discussion. That was honestly a relief. 

One of my best zone conferences and my favourite lesson that was given was Elder Jewkes' Lesson! It was about True Conversion. He nailed it!!!! it was Probably my favourite lesson that has ever been given at a zone conference and it was also his last. So I'm happy for him.

For Lunch, we had Burger King! 

Friday 6-1

Weekly planning and a few good lessons. I did a Baptismal Interview for Rocklands 1 for a girl named Buhle Nkomombine. I love the names here. Buhle Nkomombine translates roughly to "Two Beautiful Cows"

I love it. hahaha

Saturday 6-2

we had a 100% day!!! It was nice 100% of our Lessons cancelled on us. Actually, that's not true. Our Last one was there. The Fefa Family:) We brought Elder Menardin and Ekerita because Bongani Fefa Served his mission in Uganda and he served in Elder Ekerita's home ward so they know each other:) They made us Dinner and it was AMAZING! 

Sunday 6-3

Well We had a Baptism:) Sister Sisanda Mnisi!! :) Her cousin elder Mnisi (In my group) Was super excited when I called him:) Sisanda was Baptized and the whole thing went smoothly. I Baptized her and she was so excited. Bongani Baptized a child of record in "fetching cold water" as he called it and he did it 3 times cause he kept holding Bongani's Elbow and wasn't going all the way under water. It was really something.. haha

Later today was Went to sister Tsoeus we had Tripe... I don't know if you've ever had it before but it is probably the most.... "traditional" food you can have, That's code for not an enjoyable meal at the time, but When I look back on it I'll be happy I ate it... It's a bunch of goat Intestines that weren't cleaned very well.. very grainy.

Monday june 4th, 2018

Today was Elder Trapnell's last day as a Missionary so we helped him get a few souvenirs and stuff like that. We tried Emailing this morning but Elder Cobinah was downloading hundreds of hours of "Mo-tab" so the internet was extremely slow.. After that, we went to the Store and got some meat and Later tonight we went to Elder and Sister Hicks and we had a huge braai all 7 of us, Me, Elder Lowe, Elder Trapnell, Elder Cobinah, Elder Pantoe, Elder Hicks, and Sister Hicks. IT WAS SO GOOD!!!!

We took some pictures, ate some food, then We took Trapnell to the Bus Station. 

Wednesday, June 6th, 2018

Today I was kinda sick so Elder Lowe Brought me some Medicine and a cold glass of water. During the night I tried to turn off the Heater next to my bed but in doing so I knocked something off my bed, I woke up terrified cause I thought it was my water. Luckily, it was just my flashlight, but I was too scared to turn the Heater. So that was fun.

Later, I couldn't handle the heat any more so I made a great effort to turn it off. However, it was all in vain, For I did not achieve my goal due to three A.M.  Exhaustion. In the end, I had dropped a glass, breaking it, and also spilling some of the water on the power outlet thingy.. it made a little "ZAP" sound but everything was okay....except my pride.

Thump-bang-Crash-Splash-Fetch-Zap-ughhh...

Thursday, June 7th, 2018

We taught Gibson for the first time in a long time. And we also taught his girlfriend Portia! It was a really good lesson! We reviewed Lesson one, which was a good Idea! We are going to shoot for a baptism in July. They are very excited! AND SO AM I:))

 Friday, June 8th, 2018

Taught Mokgadi and He said he's down to 1 cigarette a Day and that tomorrow will be his last day EVER!!! We told him to give his final cigarette a name, I voted for Thabo! But either way, we taught him about Tithing and he is super excited to be baptized and to pay tithing even:) Next week he should be interviewed:)

The Ngogodo Family fed us! They have a little boy named YOLO Ngogoda! Yolo is the coolest kid I've ever met! I asked what does Yolo mean and they're like "you only live once"..... Boy, did I feel dumb? But its short for something Like Yolanelefjkdkdhgfn.. which means blessing:)

Saturday Exchanges with Elder Lowe.

Elder Lowe and I started our day by teaching a man from Malawi... 

we also taught Melments sisters at their door. We taught them about the restoration. Last time we visited they told us to answer their question "Where does the Bible teach about Joseph Smith?" We read Isaiah 29 and They were so pumped!! haha, The only problem is that they like their church A LOT... mostly because they can dance a sing Hillsong in their church:/ What're you gonna do? their church has a disco ball!! I cant compete with that?!

we also taught Gibson about the Book of Mormon! he said he'd come to church......

Sunday 

.... Well, he didn't.

But Mokgadi did!!! He's the best!  super cool guy that asks good questions and has a strong desire to change:)

May 2018

Monday 5-3

Today we Went to teach the Mantje Family for an FHE!! you'll never guess what happened.. Brother Mantje is the one struggling to find the gospel more in his life. His daughter is not happy with him. However, today we visited him and he brought a family from next door to hear our message. We taught them about the book of Mormon and I have never seen Brother Mantje so excited! He brought out his First ever book of Mormon and was Highlighting every Verse that we read!!!

Tuesday 5-3

Well today was a really good day. We went and visited sister Sisanda and she's super excited to be baptized. the only problem is that every now and again her boss makes her work on Sundays. The Lord will provide a way. May 27th is our Goal for her. 

We also had interviews with Mission President and did our very best to makes sure all the missionaries were working. Some Missionaries Did Not Want to work in someone elses area. They just wanted a vacation. However, I worked with Elder Walker and Elder Lewis, as well as their Member Present. They were awesome and Carried the Spirit with them. They Listened, asked good questions, and helped answer questions effectively. I was happy to work with them. We visited Gibson and I didn't inform them too well about his background and Elder Walker shared a perfect scripture that helped open his eyes to repentance and resisting Temptation. It was Inspired.

Wednesday (Zone Conference) 5-4

kinda stressful considering it was combined with The Lesotho Zone and their Zone Leaders did Less than Nothing to help us out. Everything went well though. However, I totally Forgot my notes for my 30 minute lesson about how to work with Ward and stake leaders... that was stressful. But I didn't forget the Ward Directories and Auxiliary leaders, and Ward Mission Plans that I asked to be Printed out for all the Missionary Companionships. They really appreciated it!!! So it wasn't Terrible.

Lunch: Share Boxes from McDonalds! Nice!

Thursday - Exchanges With Elder Gehlbach

After Zone Conference Elder G. was my companion for our exchange. He's a really nice guy that I hope to see again when I get home:) 

We taught Mokgadi and he said he wants to Be baptized before the end of June!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am so so so Excited for this guy! We told him to pray about his own Baptismal date and to make it personal, He asked "What if someone wants to be baptized in, lets just say, about a year from now?". We taught him more about the GIFT of the Holy Ghost and how it can guide us EVERYDAY!!! It Strengthened my testimony, and his as well! He said "Okay okay okay, Personally, No later than June. I want this! What do I need to do before then?"

"You need to start by Coming to church and reading the Book of Mormon each day." HE said YES! (He did Comet to church this week)

we also Visited the Qinisile Family and I really like them! haha yeah we taught about the Importance of reading the Book of Mormon.

I gave a Presentation alone, because Gehlbach doesn't know what we were talking about, to all the Bloemanda bishopric. Either Way, they really like me now. haha I introduced the Prayer chain for to them and we want them to start Sunday and go for 30-40 days... Im excited for them! It'll help them out a lot!

  

Friday 5-5

A bunch of appointments as well as meeting with OUR Bishop! We set up the Appointment with him on Sunday, reminded him Tuesday, then reminded him the morning. HE COULD NOT SAY NO AT THIS POINT! When We reminded him this morning he was pretty Hesitant so I asked for just 15 Minutes, so he agreed. When we saw him tonight we arrived On Time, and took no more than 15 Minutes. I didn't want to break his trust it was the first time we've been able to have an effective meeting. In fact it was SUPER Effective. he gave us 10 Less actives to visit, agreed to meet with 3 of our investigators one of these Sunday, and even gave us a  referral! Then we left! I think he's starting to trust us now.

Saturday

Lunch:Sister Olga and Helesi, Received a Referral from them and are going to try to teach her Daughter-in-law.

We also taught Sister Fefa's Mom. We brought Sister Fefa's Son Bongani with us and Bongani said "She has never wanted to be taught by missionaries in the past, even before My mission. Thank you so much Elders" 

The Lesson about the restoration went really well and she agreed to come to church, but she doesn't have a a way to get there... so we called sister Tsoeu and Sister Tsoeu said she can pick her up on the way Sunday! 

Sunday 5-6

Bishop was a lot of help today and was a lot more inclined to Help us out, seeing that we are trying to help him out too! Thank You, President Thompson for all the advice thats been given! He even stopped me and asked if we could schedule another meeting to follow up on the work.

The Qinisile Family came to church, All of them! For the first time since I've been here the entire family came to church... mostly because they just needed that little push and i think stopping by With Elder Gehlbach helped them feel the gentle and loving Push.

also, BROTHER MOKGADI CAME TO CHURCH! He came with His ENTIRE family (All Members) and it was a really cool sight to see:) the spirit was very strong today. Even though we only had one investigator at church It was really fulfilling and a good day! I feel like our ward has come together and is seeking help from the missionaries a lot more, as well as, seeking to help us! We received roughly 6 Member Referrals in the past week, and gained a lot more of our Bishops help! I am excited to see what will happen Next week.

we also, had a Mission Wide Fast today. in its simplest form, All the Missionaries in SADM Fasted for Our areas and those we teach. I think it's bring us a lot of success!

Monday May 7th, 2018

Well well well.. Today was nice.. Elder Mapeka got hit by a car last night.. we checked up on them yesterday and he's fine! So we took them to bowling and helped drive them around just to make sure he can heal up a bit so he doesnt have to bike. It was fun! 

We also came back and played basketball for like an hour! 

We taught Olga about Temples and She really wants to go!!!

we also taught sister Mantje and her son Karabo. Karoba's the one thats super good at soccer!!

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday..... well we Were working.. But Im tired and bad at writing in my journal...

Saturday... TRANSFER NEWS! 

Im very excited to get a new companion!!! Elder Cobinah from Sierra Leone! I have no Idea who he is? But hey, I guess we'll see!

Elder Phillips is going to Ezakheni, the lucky guy gets to go back to Zulu! I miss that place so bad! Luckily Elder Trapnell has been keeping me updated and teaching me Zulu! also, my Afrikaans is coming along just fine.. I should be able to tease Rebecca Jordan when I get back because she's speaking Dutch and the two languages are similar!

Elder Trapnell goes home half way through the transfer so they will be in a three some with.... *pause for dramatic affect*... Elder Lowe!!! Im super excited to have this guy join the group! it'll be awesome!

so that'll be our district... oh! But Elder Huntington is gonna go to Kimberly!!!!! So I'll get to see him soon:)

What else happened today... Oh I tried to skype you... but a little miscommunication put us back a bit, no worries!

Sunday -HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!!!-

Today was good, Just Sisanda at church... Im getting tired of excuses from other people... Just being patient..

I taught Gospel principles, it was fun! I taught about Faith and Hope! Sisanda and the other missionaries Enjoyed it:) I might complain about not having many investigators coming to church but we are in a better position than rocklands 1 right now. They've had 1 investigator show up to church in the last 7 weeks!!!! And they live closer to the church, But have to WALK! I feel bad! 

However, We have a ton of referrals that we are trying to follow up on right now!

After Church, sister Khumalo gave us a big bag of food and said she doesnt want us to all come to her house for sunday Lunches. Instead she wants us to take it and go Skype our families!! she is super nice!!

The Entire Zone had to use the Senior couples house to do their Skyping, so I was in charge of shuffling in and out all the missionaries... Elder Phillips got mad cause I gave everyone an extra 10-15 Minutes.... I DONT CARE! TALK TO YOUR FAMILY! Its not like they were breaking any commandments! just wishing their moms a happy Mothers day! And Everyone got to go..... for the most part. I went too late and I think all the internet had been used or something cause it was struggling! Sorry Mom! I'll see ya in two weeks but I love you:) 

I called President Thompson and he gave me Permission to let me skype you as soon as max gets his mission call!!!

I liked talking with all the missionaries at the Hicks and Sister Hicks made some Amazing food for all of us!

Monday 5-14

Well it's Phillips last P-day so we traveled around Bloemfontein so he can get a sotho Blanket! it took forever and we ended up just going back to the first one we stopped at. He talked the lady down to R800 so thats not too bad.. he got a blue and Orange one. She said she'd order me the white and blue one from one from Johannesburg! Im excited!

Also, we did bowling. I bowled a 104? Either way, Im improving! I didnt roll anything lower than an 8!

Elder Phillips said Goodbye to brother Miji and his family, as well as the Mantje Family! It was really sweet:)

Tuesday May 15th

Phillips said goodbye and we taught some nice lessons. 

We also almost got car Jacked... Drove through a big group of people and two of them tried opening our fron doors and they were locked. However because Panto and trapnell just got out of the back their doors were open. so they opened the back doors and one of them was half way in, his left foot was inside the right door, and the left door had just been opened by another guy. I told elder Phillips to Hit the gas and as he did they both fell out and rolled throught the dirt.

Wednesday May 16th, 2018

Well phillips left at 12 and I worked with Elder Jewkes all day. Elder Jewkes is a District Leader so I Had him interview Sisanda Mnisi and SHE PASSED!!!! haha she will be baptised on May 27th:))) Im super excited for her! 

Later that day we went to Visit Ntokozo, one of Elder Jewkes Members that he's working with. He was super cool and very humble. He was Also HUGE! He plays Professional Rugby, #9 for the Cheetahs. I was gonna arm Wrestle him, but I didnt want to Embarrass him..

Then we Visited Mokgadi and taught him about the POWER OF THE BOOK OF MORMON. He Really wants to quit smoking! He's gone from 10 cigarettes each DAY down to 3!!! So he's made a lot of improvement! Im really excited and proud of him:)

Then we drove to the Bus station and Picked up Elder Nu'usa (gehlbach's new comp), Cobinah (mine), and Flake(Jewkes new comp). We also watched a Hobo poop on a fire and wipe with a burning piece of paper. I kid you not it was still on fire!!! 

Thursday May 17, 2018

1st day with Cobi, he's cool. We were in the car with the other guys and we watched a kid get hit by a car.. that was sad. . However, I think He'll be fine. He Jumped when it hit him, he went flying up in the Air but I think he just broke his leg... We werent able to stop but he wasnt there when we went back...

Friday May 18th, 2018

I really like being comps with Elder Cobinah. He's ready to work, and he doesnt talk as much as phillips! That's been really nice and a lot less stress... We taught a bunch of really good lesson and met some really nice people! (Hey this is Elder Trapnell. What's up. Stay fantastic. #blessup also, he keeps trying to steal all my floral ties. So send him some.  Please.  He's Driving me Crazy) 

We Also 

Saturday

We did a quick service for with the other guys for one of their investigators. We helped Plant a Garden! It went smoothly.

Then we ate lunch at a new Skambane place we found. the Owners name is Dick and We've become pretty good friends.

We went to the saturday session of stake conference and we hung out with S. Mark Palmer... cool guy...

Sunday _STAKE CONFERENCE_

Brother Mokgadi is doing really well.. He came to church and he loved it!! :) His daughter gave a talk at stake conference so he supported her

Monday 5-21

I was on the bus all... flippin'... Day.

we got off the bus at 6:00... eish... I was so tired. but then we had some activities at the Mission home and got to hang out with all the other Zone leaders, it was nice to kinda relax for a bit:)

Tuesday 5-22_MLC

MLC was really Productive, we learned a lot... HOWEVER, Breaking news.. This is like super Serious and Pretty darn crazy new stressful stuff. Like really really big news. The area Presidency has announced that as of JULY 1st, The All of South Africa will not have Mission Cars. I repeat. WE ARE LOSING ALL OUR CARS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm pretty Stressed right now because I am in charge of organizing the zone and preparing us for this change. Elder Cobinah and I need to work out a plan to have missionaries understand how to take Taxies to Zone conferences, District meetings, Exchanges, Transfers, Emergency Plans, how to work with Members on foot, organize new boardings, examine each area and determine which one would need bikes. Eish. Stressful. we need to turn this in as well as our Zone conference agenda by Monday. 

However, MLC was very productive. And we had Four-15, and Dominos, so that helped. The only Real Downside, was the fact that I got on a bus at 7:00 pm and didn't get off until........... 

Wednesday 5-23

......... This morning at 6:30 am. I'm so tired. I took a quick little nap then we went to our DDM. at DDM we set goals and have a plan to increase the Work in this area. I also announced to all the District about the Car situation. It wasn't too big of a deal because both of them are walking, we just had to let them know that they'll take taxis to Zone conference, and for transfers and stuff. 

Today was also our Mini P-day, we went to a few lessons throughout the day but we were still able to Email and get stuff done that we needed. We also bought a net for basketball and I'm so pumped.

Thursday 5-24 _Excahnges with Thaba Nchu (Elder Motlankhanayane... Aka, Elder Mots)

Well, I was in Rocklands working with Elder Mots and it was actually a really good exchange. He's a great missionary and he has improved a lot since I was with him last. We taught brother Mokgadi and he is doing amazing. He said that he fasted on Tuesday and it helped him a lot. Still at 3 Cigarettes but we made a plan to cut him down to 1-2 a day next week. We also visited stake President and taught Keddi. Keddi's been Up and Down but Bringing elder Mots helped a lot because Elder Mots is From Botswana so he speaks Tswana (very similar to Sesotho). That helped Keddi a lot because she only speaks Sesotho. We taught Lesson 3, the Gospel of Jesus Christ. After which we had a quick little meeting about the Stake and how the missionaries are going to do without having any cars... Man, President Nyatshobas face was Priceless when I told him about the Change.. hahaha

Friday 5-25

Today was a really good day:) We Started it off by playing some Basketball! #Michael wantstoFly (It's an Inside Joke).. the hoop is so low elder Lowe and I can Allie Oop it to Each other! Also, we Won!! #LockDownDefence! We all pitched in and bought a net! So it was much more Official.

After that, we taught some good lessons and Met some really nice people. 

We went teaching With Bishop Nkomombini and it was really fun. We went and taught a Family and Xolani (8years) hadn't been interviewed by the bishop for baptism so We brought him with so he could do that:) Xolani Qinisile is adorable, he said he wants me to Baptize him so I'm gonna need to practice my Clicks! haha

Then we took him to See sister Sisanda and I have bad news. She's supposed to be baptised on Sunday but her boss is going to make her work... So Elder Cobinah and I are going to go to Mug n' Bean and talk to her Boss. Pray that Her boss will be understanding.

 

Saturday

Sisanda Boss didn't let her off.. but next week she's good! No worries, but he said that she can have MORE Sundays off:) He was a nice guy!

Sunday 5-27

Today Church was a lot of fun:) Xolani Was Baptized as well as Bishop's son. The service went smoothly and everyone was happy. However, I was not too happy when Primary got out I was on my way to get changed for the Baptism when One of the Primary Kids, Thebang (Lerato), Yelled: "GET ELDER MERRITT!!!!!" Then a wave of children attacked me!! It was Terrifying.

A note from mom-- I recently asked Mitchell if he was being obiendien and how he was doing as a missionary. I think he was a little offended that I would even ask, but the email the he sent from his Mission President to him to prove to me that he was being "good" was one I will cherish---

Mom- yes, this is what President thompson said about how I am doing: 

President Thompson

Elder Merritt,

What a great experience with the man you found. I wonder why nobody followed up with him before. A good reminder of the importance of Area Books. You did a marvellous job with Zone Conference. And, it was wonderful to visit with you in our interview and to be with you in Zone Conference. I reiterate my great gratitude to you for the stellar example you have been to other missionaries. I appreciate how enthusiastic you are. You have clearly demonstrated through your actions and understanding the importance of our journey. You have been a great missionary and brought abundant blessings to many people. I am thrilled with what you are doing.

Baptisms and Bowling

Monday April 4-23 

Elder Lowe and Mulabe came all the way from Kimberly because their car needed to e Serviced. So we Emailed and played basketball for about an 2 hours. The Bloemanda chapel has the best basketball court. like I've said, its about 9 feet tall so its easy to dunk! it was really a lot of fun. 

But Lowe and I drove to Kimberly to start our exchange. we went to our first appointment at 7:00, it was an older couple that said they were the First converts in the Kimberly branch back in 1980 something.. they were very friendly. They had a parrot named rufus. I liked that lil' guy. When I was leaving I told Rufus to never forget who I was and he responded with a whistle..not sure how to explain it.. Trapnell calls it the "Fox whistle", Phillips says its the whistle that goes up down and all around, and Pantoe calls it the "I think youre smokin, whistle:P" Either way, I was Flattered and responded "My man:)"

Tuesday 4-24 (Exchanges in Kimberly with Lowe)

Our exchange was pretty usual, good lessons, a few bunks, we came back and made a Huge lunch. That was awesome. Pap and chicken with some gravy! Delicious.  

Later, for dinner, we got some Pizza at Domino's! and spent the night again. I am broke out of money. hahaha

I found out that last night (Monday) while Phillips and Mulabe were on exchanges that the Mantje family is struggling. The other night Brother Mantje (Less active, but came to church 8 days ago) received a letter from his daughter, 3 pages, front and back. She quoted prophets and apostles about how a father should be an example to his family and lead it in righteousness. She strongly believes he is not doing that. Brother Mantje and his wife, when they met with Phillips and Mulabe, gave the two of them the letter and bade Phillips to read it..... out loud. It was so awkward i guess.. his daughter basically disowned her own father. " I will occupy my room, I will not eat your food, I will not accept your money, other than that I will not see you."

Elder Phillips and Mulabe gave the parents a blessing and told them to talk to bishop.

Wednesday 4-25

drove home, got bunked a bunch and drove to do exchanges with Bethlehem. 

We did have one appointment, Karabo our ward mission leaders, Father! His father came in HOT!!!! Saying we're not Christian, We are Just like the Jehovah's Witnesses, we dont believe or celebrate Christ's birth our death, and all this stuff. Phillips said "list all of your concerns and we will help address them one at a time..". Personally, I thought that was a terrible Idea that was gonna lead to a bunch of arguing. so I told Phillips it would be better if we just read the Article's of Faith.After the first one he continued to argue a bit, telling us that we are Lying... Why would we Lie? After the second, he got quieter, and quieter, and quieter. By the end he was silent. no questions. Then He apologized. happy to help:)

Before Driving to Bethlehem we had to take Elder Larsen because he's getting transferred, and were going to pick up Elder Pantoe (Trapnells new companion). We really wanted to buy Larson Waffles but we weren't able to find a Spur that wasn't completely packed with people. :/

I will be with Elder Fullmer and Phillips with Jantjies tomorrow. When we arrived guess who was at the Boarding! Elder Hinnen(PJ District) and Elder Christensen (Was serving in phoenix while I was in Kwamashu Last year). It was really nice catching up with them.

Also riots are still in Heidedal, they brought in the Military.... theyll be fine! cool plains and helicopter though! haha Cant trust the KHALADS LOL!!!! 

Thursday 26th (Exchanges with the AP's)

so Elder Fullmer and Elder Jantjies are "Training Assistants" so Missionaries from all around come to them Exchanges where they can be helped. They wanted us to come down and see exactly how they run their Exchanges. Im not exactly sure how Effective it was considering thats almost exactly how our exchanges went with Kimberly. to me it seems like a lot of wasted Petrol.. 

However, Elder Fullmer is an awesome missionary. We did Finding in the morning, then had lunch, then we had appointments every hour till the end of the night... Only one of them went through... But we did have a perfect day, our morning schedule was perfect. Woke up on time and We actually exercised! then the rest was good too. 

During finding we found a father Lead family that knows a member of the church and that was sending him scriptures. We answered his questions and taught him and his wife about how families can be together forever.

We also met to women outside and they kinda gave Fullmer and Jantjies subtle fire... they said they can only understand me when I teach. "I understand what this one is saying (Pointing to me) but I can't understand you or the other one you bring (Elder Jantjies), youre too confusing...".

I kinda felt bad for Fullmer and Jantjies but hey it gives him something to work on.

Friday April 27th 

Drove home from Bethlehem with Elder Pantoe. He's from Liberia I think? super funny but kinda hard to understand through his accent..

Today was a hard day... we were able to visit Gibson and Portia so that was nice, and I really believe they will come to church this week all of them as a family. However, the rest of the day was hard. we had an Appointment every day from 2-7... they all bunked so we tried to visit our other investigators. 

Saturday

today we had 2 set appointments but we ended up visiting a couple of our investigators and putting 3 of them on B-date!!

We also did a service project for the Miji Family. I really like them. We weeded their front back and both sides of their house. Everything Green went in the bag. We filled up 12 Black bags, and trimmed up their trees! it looks a LOT better! Elder Phillips was actually a lot of help, compared to some of my other companions in the past (Except Elder Ottley)! haha

Elder Phillips and I are now in charge of making sure everyone skypes and organizing with them the phone calls. ugh.. its fun. we only have 1 computer and 2 tablets because a crazy hard restrictions that president has made. It all has to be done at the senior couples boarding. 

Sunday April 29th, 2018

Today at church I was sitting in the chapel disappointed that none of our investigators came to church.. I looked over the room, not a single person showed up.. Elder Phillips did the same. then I closed my eyes bowed my head and said a silent prayer. Low and behold, sitting RIGHT NEXT TO ME across the isle, Sisanda Mnisi had walked all the way to church 2 hours walk. she made it without even being seen!:) God Bless!

After church we had Lunch with the Matus and they are a super nice family!

Then to finish the night we had our stake missionary report meeting with the stake president. Pitched him some Ideas for new areas to open, like Virginia, and to re open Botsabelo. I also gave him a plan I was thinking about to split the stake by 2025! By combining Kroonstad, Welkom, Phahameng, and Virginia with Phuthaditjhaba and Bethlehem and the surrounding groups. Also, splitting Rocklands in three ways, alongside splitting Kimberly and Bloemanda. And, well, He liked it:) so that's how its going to be now.

Im just excited to be a part of this:) being able to be here at such a perfect time:)

Monday 4-30

I DESTROYED EVERYONE IN BOWLING TODAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!! hahah Not really.. Elder Phillips made a huge comeback! he was down nearly 20 point or more then He got a strike on his last throw so he went again and guess what another Strike!! I ended up beating him by 6 points! It was a close one! haha