May 5, 2014...Last days in the Mission

It is interesting how the days preceding my departure is just like any other day. It is so weird to think that I am at the closure of my mission. And to think....where did all the time go?! 

The last couple of days have been days filled with working as hard as I could and finding the dedication to help the people here, despite my departure. I have loved all that I have taught and I have felt the love of Heavenly Father as I have tried to see the investigators for what they can be and not what they are now. I will never forget the things that I have learned in my mission,...the greatest of it all....God lives! And we are each a child of God with great potential to become a divine son or daughter of God. I would never trade the mission for anything in the world...because through it I have come to understand the things that the Lord desires for me to become. I think that the hardest part of these last few days is knowing that it will be the last time for a long time that I will be able to see again these people that I love. But I know that the Lord has placed me in certain places at certain times, to meet certain people and to be a certain instrument in His hands to bless certain lives. 

I want to thank all the people that have helped me to become what I have become and to have the power and worthiness to be a missionary for the Lord. Thank you all so much for your support and love. I love you all so much...God be with you till we meet again!!!

--

Sister Pace

Philippines Legazpi Mission

Alma 26:30

 

 

 

SISTER PACE WILL RETURN HOME FROM HER MISSION ON MAY 8, 2014

April 28, 2014

The countdown has begun...

And the work just gets better. I love the work here, even though it has been difficult. We had a lot of lessons fall through, but we always tried to remain joyful about our situation. And in the end we met some really interesting people. I have learned the power of the gospel in the lives of others and I am loving the opportunity to be a blessing to the people around me. We had some really great lessons that helped us to understand the needs of the people and also the power of the word of God in changing the people, to become what the Lord desires for them.

It has been so weird to be preparing to leave the Philippines...but I have really come to see the blessings that will continue to be with me, even after I leave.

We had a wonderful time celebrating the 21st birthday of my companion and also seeing some of the members from Tabaco. Sister Jayson and Sister Margie came to visit me before I leave and they brought Alexa....the daughter of Sister Jayson. She named her after me, and she is just the cutest little baby. I love to see the impact that I have been able to leave on the people here and to feel the love that the Lord has for them. The work is true, the gospel is real and the blessings are forever arching upon our lives, if we remain faithful :)

--

Sister Pace

Philippines Legazpi Mission

Alma 42: 31

 

 

 

 

April 21, 2014

Another week down and a lot of things to do. We have had such a great week with all the work. We started the week off with a ward activity and a baptism. It was a great experience and loved being able to work with the members. As the week went we found ourselves traveling to other areas, to assist the sisters and help them in the work. We are finding some struggles but it has been a real teaching and learning opportunity to see the will of the Lord. 

We have had some really great investigators progressing in the gospel...and of course others that are still trying to understand what is the difference between us and their church. The war is on and there is so much that we must do in order to stand for the which is right. I am gaining a larger understanding about the gospel and the things that we must stand up for...there is so much that we tend to over look or forget. And this is what I want to avoid...I am gaining a great respect and desire to live the gospel to the way the Lord would have me. 

I loved being able to celebrate the Easter holiday, again, here in the Philippines. It is always an interesting sight, but it reminds you a lot of the things that must be remembered. The Lord has done so much for us and I love that we have a greater knowledge and understanding that we have a Savior that is no longer dead, but is truly alive. Knowing that we have a living Savior is something that will forever empower me to know that this life is for us to gain all that He has. I hope that we will all take the time to remember the sacrifice that the Lord has made and the opportunity to live beyond the death that may encompass us. 

Great is the work of the Lord...to spread it among the children of men. The Lord has given us each the power and possibilities to overcome the troubles that encumber us in this life. May we constantly ponder on the things we have gained through our Lord and Savior.

--

Sister Pace

Philippines Legazpi Mission

Alma 42: 31

April 14, 2014

Ay Naku! The weeks are just going faster than I ever thought. We started the week on a really good note with our less actives...and received note that I needed to report to Manila in order to prepare to depart. So it was a few days filled with anticipation to go to Manila and rescheduling our appointments. We had a wonderful exchange with the two sisters in our apartment and I love working with others, because you get to learn about them and their needs. And then you can take the gospel to them and help them improve their lives. We headed to Manila and spent a good amount of the morning in the airport and the immigration office. It was a different sight to see than being out in the field...but it was interesting to see so many different people in one place. And as we finished (four missionaries) we got in the van to travel another 2 hours to get to the temple. It was a long ride, but it was a really great experience. I love the temple and I miss being able to go often. There was so much that I learned and reminisced about while I was there. I know that the temple does bless and strengthen individuals, but most importantly it binds families together forever.  I am excited to have the chance to go again before I will go home. When we came home we had the opportunity to join in a group discussion with our mission president and then enjoy interviews with him. I love working in the mission and learning about the principles that apply to our lives here in the mission and also in the life that we have outside.   But the greatest part of the entire week was going out and working with the people. Sharing the gospel and helping them see the blessings that it can bring to their lives. We have one investigator that we only get to teach once a week and she is just soaking in everything that we are sharing with her....but she said that she had read the pamphlet again about the plan of salvation....and with a large smile on her face she said..."I understand it better now...and I want to go to the Celestial Kingdom, with my family..." It was a pluck in the heart strings. I love my work...and I love that I have a priceless gift that I can share with other people...only if they give me time to share with them. But to have several experiences like this in one week....it just makes you love it all....despite any rejection that you may receive. And then to end the week with General Conference, just made everything so great. I learned so much and I was so happy to see the blessings and revelations that the Lord is pouring out upon His children. I learned so much about the peace and guidance that the gospel can bring to the lives of many. I know that this church--The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints-- is the true church on earth and there is nothing that can cause it to falter. I know that the Lord has called, set apart and ordained President Thomas S. Monson as the prophet, seer and revelator for the Church. I would never trade anything for my membership in this church, for it holds a priceless gift, beyond the wealth of any man.

--

Sister Pace

Philippines Legazpi Mission

 

 

April 7, 2014

Kumusta!

This week was a crazy week filled with meetings, meetings and more meetings! But what great experiences they were. We had a wonderful time at Missionary Leadership Council and really tried to understand more about letting the Lord have place in the work. But it was a time to contemplate the last time I would be working so close with the leaders. We shared everything we learned with the other missionaries in Zone training and found miracles occurring in the lives of the missionaries here. We have been counseled to open our mouths and share the gospel...and so we are making more of an effort to talk with all people. And to see that the Lord is preparing His people for the gospel...we just need to have the faith to talk with all and allow them to feel of the joy that is found in the gospel.

And then we had the opportunity to listen to the leaders of the church in the Women's General Broadcast...I felt so inspired and I loved the messages that they shared. I am so very grateful for all the things that my family has been so great to share with me and help me to accomplish as a daughter of God.

I love the work as a missionary because there are so many great days...you have days that you are sitting on the side of the railroad tracks, trying to teach about the importance of prayer and you are wondering why the Lord hasn't taken control of the evil that is around you....but you realize that it is required in order to see the good that is around you too. I love to know that the Lord loves and trust us that he has given us the power to choose and to feel the guidance that he wants to give us. i have learned so much about the power of agency and the power that is plays....M. Russell Ballard says that we must be " creators of circumstance and not creatures of circumstance." I love that this is a gift that we have to use...but I am sad to see how God's children are using it. 

We had some really great experiences with our investigators as we shared with them and they have felt the influence of the Spirit in their lives...I love to play such a crucial role in their lives, now and in the eternities.

And you have to laugh when you are talking on the street with one of your investigators and you slowly see a crowd gather around you...they didn't think that you spoke Tagalog....and they are so confused and surprised. I love being a missionary :)

And the days when you can take off your shoes and see that you have seriously been burnt too much....because it looks like you are wearing socks always ;P But to  know that the heat is going to die,...but only after you leave the country.

The Church is true...the Book of Mormon is blue and true too... and the word of God shall continue to fill this earth and spill upon the ears of those that are willing to hear...I am grateful that the Lord has given me this opportunity :) For my life shall never be the same! 

--

Sister Pace

Philippines Legazpi Mission

Alma 42: 31

March 31, 2014

Kumusta!

This week was really great! We had a great streak of trying of building our teaching pool and in the process met some really great people. We had several investigators open with us and share with us of their concerns and their troubles...and it wasn't a burden to hear them...but it was more of a privilege because these people could see that we were sent from the Lord to be a guide and to find answers to their prayers. I felt so touched to see the power that we have as missionaries. It is so important for us to live up to our privilege as missionaries and to stand as a light and a beacon to those around us. So many missionaries are so willing to reap the blessings and the success that comes from a mission....but they are not willing to meet the requirements that are needed in order to receive this success. I have felt so sad to be placed in a leadership position and see the case of this so many times. We are called to stand apart from the people of the world....it is a simple thing....yet it has become the most difficult to accomplish.

I have loved being able to work and forget about the days. The mission is such a wonderful place to really develop yourself and understand what the Lord has in store for you. I feel like that I have forgotten what day it is...and all I need to do is work. i am learning that the mission is really the place where the Lord is shaping you into what you need to be....so that we can be of use later, in His kingdom.

 

Sister Pace

Philippines Legazpi Mission

Alma 42: 31

 

 

 

 

March 24, 2014

Kumusta!

Ever wondered if you were making the right choices when you are walking through rain for 4 hours, yelling "tao po!" and hoping that someone will let you in? it is a priceless experience that I would never give up. Despite not getting into the houses, there are a lot of experiences that I learned from those we have taught.

This week was filled with a lot of work. We had exchanges in Guinobatan. It was a really great experience and an opportunity to learn about the role of missionaries. We had several appointments that really showed me the power and influence of missionaries. It is so important for us to stand for what we know is right and to always show the people. And as we do all that we can to stand for the truth and right. I have to come to understand this as we have had to help other missionaries stand for the better part. But I had the opportunity to serve with a wonderful missionary that had momentarily lost sight of what her purpose was...but now is on a better road to bless the people in her area. When we got back to Daraga, I never felt like I was going home, like I did then. It was so nice to back with the people and to be able to share with them. We had a wonderful lesson with two of our less active youth and they just really brought hope to the world. It is so interesting to see these youth live in a junk shop, that brings people from all parts of the population...and most of all the bad. But yet they stand as a light to all and have really given me a new understanding for the peace that can be found in the gospel. And as we have gone through this week to continue to find and teach people, I continue to grow in my love and desire to become better. We taught a young woman, Jovelyn...and she was just the best example to me this week. We haven't taught her for almost an entire 6 week period...but we had the blessing of teaching her again. She has been reading the Book of Mormon and has been praying about everything. We had extended a baptismal date to her, but her husband will not allow her. But despite that, she has asked that we teach her family. I was so touched to see her love and her willingness to share it with those she loves...and I only hope that we will be able to bless others as we have blessed her life. I attached a photo of her and her son :) There is so much that I have learned...The mission is one of the hardest things you can ever do. But with that said, it is one of the most rewarding experiences that will last your entire life....because with every step it will draw you closer to the Lord. It will be up to us that we will "come unto ourselves"...and find the way back into our Father's arms.

Sister Pace

Philippines Legazpi Mission

Alma 42: 31

March 17, 2014

Kumusta!

This week was a good and busy week. We had a Leadership Council about the ways to become master gospel teachers. It was a really great training about the way that the Lord taught. It was a really great time to use our time here in the mission to be effective and efficient in His vineyard. We had  great time teaching the other missionaries and inspiring them to reach for the standard of the mission. We were able to share some really great time with some of our investigators and members and began to see the miracles that the Lord wanted us to see. We had one case where we were teaching a less active and investigator. They live in a very sketchy area--smoking, drinking, and just about every crude thing you could think of. But we were there to teach a lesson about the plan of salvation. And it was so ironic to see things come about. Their father (a less active) was drinking in the house with all his friends...so that meant we would need to find another place to share. And at that point there was no where else--except outside....right next to the rail road. So there we were sharing with our investigators amid all the crude actions of these 13 and 14 year olds smoking and dressed unfortunately like the world....and we felt that we were in our own world...to help these investigators (14 and 15 year old) feel the purpose to why they are here. I have never felt so much love from Heavenly Father. He wants each of us to return back to Him...but some of us have forgotten what we are sent here to do. And it is so hard to watch all these people struggle to know what to do, in order to help them. We have seen so many people open up as we strive to share His love with them. We have had drunks, lesbians and everything in between, come with open hearts to us...in order to feel the joy of our Heavenly Father. I know that there is so much that can be found in our message as members, that we should share with others. We are working so hard to do what we can to bless the people here and strengthen them. We of course didn't feel that we had enough time to do everything. But the Lord always bears forth His arm and blesses us to know what miracles He wants to bring forth.  I know that the Lord lives and that He will show forth His power if we are so very willing to act in faith and give Him all that we can. I know that we can firmly give a proclamation to all about His glory...at it begins today.

Sister Pace

Philippines Legazpi Mission

Alma 42: 31

 

March 10, 2014

Kumusta!

Haha...you learn a lot in one week when you realized that you have written none of it in your journal. It is so important to write down your thoughts and inspiration on paper....because it will not always stay in your mind.

But despite my lack of preparation...I know one thing for sure. The Lord lives and He knows each and everyone of us. He loves each of us...and He will show us miracles, if we have our eyes and hearts open to receive them.

This week has been a week of many trials and difficulties, but also a week of miracles and blessings, through the name of our Lord and Savior. We had a week with exchanges and of course there is always so much to learn from all the other sisters. We had a repeat in one of the companionships in order to help them find their attitude, that would be fit for a missionary. And it really was a miracle to see the blessings of it, as they worked together to reach the standard of the mission. It has been such a blessing to see the opportunity for them to see the importance of the work. I saw the miracles...especially when we worked as hard as we could. And the Lord blessed us yesterday in church, as we had a long time less-active become worthy to pass the sacrament, to see investigators that we tracted a week before come to church, and to see the power of the gospel in your life. There are so many days that we feel so tired and just wondered if we were going to be able to find the people we needed to. But as we act in faith and remain worthy, the Lord will provide. And if you pray hard enough the Lord will place the people you need to meet in your path.  Sometimes we may not be perfect or necessarily in the right place to receive these blessings...but as I have seen that as we do all that we can....we are blessed with the tender mercies. The things that will help us to change our behavior, according to the things that the Lord desires for us to accomplish. We are placed here to impact others...but it all depends on our actions.  I love the scripture from 2 Nephi 2:14...it has come to me with more meaning this week as I have experienced different things.

And now, my sons, I speak unto you these things for your profit and learning ; for there is a God, and he hath created all things, both the heavens and the earth, and all things that in them are, both things to act and things to be acted upon.

We must learn that the Lord has created all things...including you and me...but with that, He has given a wonderful gift to us....the gift to act and to be acted upon. It is so important that we understand this and what it requires of us, with the gift of agency. It applies to so many aspects of our lives...we must learn how to use it. And as we do so, the Lord will enable us to be more useful in His hands. I am in the search to become better at using my agency...to be more effective and efficient in the hands of the Lord.

 

Sister Pace
Philippines Legazpi Mission

 

 

March 3, 2014

Kumusta sa lahat!

You never know how fast the week goes until you are already through it. I feel like we have just started this transfer and now we are already half way through it. But how fruitful and wonderful it has been. We have really seen the power of God in His work as we have worked through the "thick" and "thin" of things...and what is even more great is that the Lord answers prayers, of two simple missionaries. We made the goal to continue to work towards the standard of the mission again this week...and the first week, the Lord showed unto us that it was possible...but the second time, He gave us some challenges. We had a full week of leadership training and mission tour, which took a lot of our time to travel rather than to spend with the people in our area. But despite our challenges, we still made the effort to do all we could. Everyday we made the effort to find people that the Lord had prepared for us...and He did provide. We gave a lot of time to tracting houses this week...and I have never felt like I have walked so much. But there were always people there. Like last night...we were both praying that the  Lord would help us to find the ones that He has been preparing. And He did...we found a husband and wife that just were so kind and so warmly welcomed us into their home. And in the end of it all, we found out that the mother of the husband, had been a member. But we were also able to touch his heart with the knowledge that God had a plan for him.  And when we had mission tour, it took most of our day. We were almost uncertain that we were going to be able to reach our goal of 6 lessons for the day, because we only had 3 planned lessons....but I know that if we act in faith and trust in the Lord and give all our effort, until we are exhausted....we will find them. I was really grateful to see the power of this work. As much as I have felt that others are judgmental about what we can reach...I feel that the Lord feels the same. If we can not see with the eye of faith and the eternal perspective that we need...we may never reach the sight of the Lord. I am seeing that the Lord has a larger plan, that we must be willing to see...because if not, it will continue to move forward without us. It is like being on a game board that we don't see where the end is...but we must continue to travel through our "turns" and make the best move we can. It may not work out the way we want it to, but we still moved somewhere. Sometimes it is better to continue to move, rather than fear or doubt that if you make a move, there will be bad consequences always. And when you feel that you are doing the same thing over and over again...you never know what those will provide. My companion had a stretch of feeling like she was of no use here...but I tried to help her to understand that her work to plant is one of the most important works. It doesn't matter how many baptisms you have in the end of your mission. You may move from place to place and just feel like you are planting seeds...in the hot sun. And you never really get the chance to see them grow into the beautiful plants that they have a potential to be. But you left your finger print on them...nothing will ever remove that. I may not have 20+ baptisms in the entire time of my mission...but I know that I have left something behind in the hearts of the people here. I could not ask for a better job than to be a planter :) And I am seeing that this is my job here in Daraga. I may not reap the souls of the people that are here...but I know that  I have done my part and I have fulfilled my part in the Lord's work. This week was a great week to see the worth of souls in the sight of God. No matter if they come in half drunk and unable to speak clearly to you...they are still children of God and they have a part in God's plan. And we have no right to ever doubt that they don't want to know about the gospel. It is sometimes those that are wearing the cigarette designed t-shirt or the ones that smell intoxicated that are waiting to find something that can take all the hurt and pain away. I know that the Lord lives and that He loves each and everyone of us. We just must be willing to see His love for us too.

--

Sister Pace

Philippines Legazpi Mission

Alma 42: 31

February 24, 2014

Attitude...it's what's for dinner...

What a week!!  There was so much that I learned about...well...you know...EVERYTHING! We had a really great week set ahead for us as we planned for exchanges and also for a goal to reach the mission standard. And it went really good for us....but I realized so much more, how hard it is to accomplish the work of the Lord, in His way. We started acting in faith to find people, after our day of preparation. Tracting at night is not the easiest to do when no one can see you...or they are too busy to answer the door. But we put ourselves out there...and you know....two white sisters can really stick out in the dark. But we found ourselves finding tender mercies along the way and we continued to do all we could. We started with exchanges with the Sisters in our apartment. In the end it was a lesson of attitude. I have learned so much about attitude this week and the power that it has on all you do...not just the thoughts you have, but on your actions and your beliefs. I know that as we have a good attitude about the things that the Lord commands, we will have a better understanding of ourselves, as children of God. My companion and I had made the goal to reach the standard of excellence for the mission, but if neither of us had the right attitude to reach it, it would have been a difficult thing for us to accomplish. We had many of the other missionaries in our district mock us...but I realized that I wanted to prove them wrong....not to receive the praise of them...but to receive the praise of the Lord, for accomplishing His work, through His way. It was amazing to see how the Lord worked beside us in so many instances and gave us the knowledge, the strength and understanding to find, teach and strengthen those He placed in our path. Our motive became two sayings--" kaya mo iyan!" ( You can do it!) and "I can feel it in my bones"...and in the end...we had miracles and tender mercies in our work everyday. and we reached beyond our standard of excellence. I know that there is so much that be accomplished in this world, only if we will rely on the Lord and turn our heart and might to Him. I am learning so much about the gospel and our reliance on it....it is the blood that runs through us and keeps us alive. And I am realizing more and more that it becomes hard to write things down in words...for it is much more on feelings. I know with all my heart that this church is true. I know that as we build our attitude on the knowledge that we are children of our Heavenly Father, nothing else will be able to fight against us... I know this because I have felt the redeeming power of the Lord in my life. And I know that the Lord lives, because I have felt His presence at my side as I have turned to Him at all moments and come unto Him as a little child. I hope that we can each develop an "kaya mo iyan" attitude....because that's what's for dinner :)

--

Sister Pace

Philippines Legazpi Mission

Alma 42: 31

February 17, 2014

Kumusta!

This transfer has started out new. I have a new companion...Sister Lang. She is from California. And we are really excited to work together this transfer.

Our week was filled with going to appointments the entire day....I almost thought that I killed my companion, because she was so worn out. But she is still adjusting from living the island life. We had a a wonderful baptism on Saturday for Romalyn and Mark. They are such strong spirits and I am so very grateful for their examples to me :)

I hope that everyone had a great Valentine's Day...here the work was the same...but wow! there were a lot of lonely men out. We had some really great experiences of men following us around and little boys chasing after us with roses...hahaha....you've got to feel the love ;P 

But throughout this week I have learned a great deal about the gospel and the power that it has in our lives. I have been studying a lot about self mastery and how to accomplish things through the Lord and His Atonement. I know that there are greater things that the Lord has in store for us...if only we could see our potential. I know that the Lord is there to help refine us, only if we are willing to. Matthew 16:24-26...

"Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the end thereof, if we pursue the path that leads to it. and this is virtue, uprightness,faithfulness, and holiness and keeping all the commandments of God." Joseph Smith

I was really grateful that on Sunday I had the opportunity to see the members from Tabaco. A group of them came to visit and it was a sweet reunion. It was awesome to see one of the long time investigators become members after 2 years of attending church faithfully. And to see others become temple recommend holders. I am so grateful for the gospel and the opportunity to serve here in the vineyard of the Lord.

Sister Pace

Philippines Legazpi Mission

Alma 42: 31

 

 

February 10, 2014

Kumusta,

This week was a really great week filled with opportunities to learn about the people and what the gospel does to change a person. We have a good turn out with our investigators last week and extending baptismal dates to them...however time must take it toll and you may not see them for a week. It is hard sometimes when you are trying your best and things just don't seen to work out...but I am understanding the role of these things in our experiences in this life. It is so important for us to use the time here to use these experiences for our benefit. 

We have two investigators that will be baptized this Saturday and we are all so very excited....especially the investigators. I am hoping that we can continue to help them and strengthen them in their efforts to follow the Savior. The work as a missionary always opens doors for you and tends to open your eyes to the things that can overcome a family or an individual and cause some to loose faith in the things that you are teaching them. I hope that I will continue to be an effective tool to bless the lives of those here. 

We had a lesson with one of our investigators, who is a lesbian. She is such a wonderful person and we have enjoyed sharing the gospel with her. She loves to hear about the things that the Lord has planned for her and how she can reach it. We have enjoyed sharing lessons with her, but as we shared about the plan of salvation, we found that it is hard to change a person. She may still like females, but she knows what is wrong and right. She wants to change her life, but knows that she can not do it all at once. When we were teaching this lesson I really was able to see that she is a daughter of our Heavenly Father and she will be able to stand before the Lord...hopefully one day to be worthy to enter back into His presence. I love the knowledge that we have through this gospel.

We had a wonderful FHE with a member family, whose father is not a member. It has been many years that he has attended church, but has not really desired to join the church himself. We shared a beautiful lesson about family unity...and the spirit was so strong. I was so grateful that we had the chance to go there and share with them, because through the miracles of the Lord...maybe he will become a member someday. I am so grateful for the knowledge of eternal families and the principles that can bring us together to overcome our differences and share mutual love and understanding in all that we encounter in this life. The family was so great and participated so well in all that we shared...we are excited to see what is going to happen in the next chapter :)

Sunday started out as a good day...well...because Sister Pace got locked inside the bathroom for 15 minutes. Despite the fact that I removed the door handle and everything else I could possibly remove without breaking the door....no hope....but the other sisters finally got the owner and they broke the door. Just another adventure to add to the week ;) 

This week will be a great one as we start another transfer here in Daraga with a new companion. I am excited and I know that the Lord has great plans in store.

Hope that you all have a great week and seek to do good to those around you :)

--

Sister Pace

Philippines Legazpi Mission

Alma 42: 31

 

 

February 3, 2014

Kumusta!

I have learned so much in this last week. A week full of faith, love, hope, and determination to serve the Lord. I am so grateful for the experiences that I have had this week and the blessings that the Lord has placed in my life. 

It is always a learning experience to learn about how to become more like our Heavenly Father. This week was a week of dedicating my life, my love and my hard work to all of the work and glory of the Lord.  Dedication is not just about working hard, but it is also about working effectively and efficiently. You can only give so much of yourself as you are willing to give...and it is required of us to give all of ourselves. You learn about the fear and trials that you have are only but a "blimp" in the scene of this life and we must press forward with a strong determination to give all we can...not through our own efforts, but through the power and guidance of our Heavenly Father. We had a wonderful meeting with all the leaders in the mission and we talked a lot about the power that we need to be relying on. We learned a lot about our responsibilities to stand as a witness to all and to become a strong witness of the truth...but to be humble enough to rely on the Lord and always give space for the Lord. I have learned that it is important to step up to our responsibilities and fulfill the things of the Lord...not for our own benefit, but for the blessings that will be poured upon our fellow brothers and sisters. And to see the fruits of all the hard work that you give...turning into miracles. We have a young man who we have been teaching and it has been a long course of trying to get him to attend church and read the Book of Mormon...but in our experiences yesterday, we have seen his heart change and his desire has become centered on the Lord. He wrote us a wonderful text about the inspiration we have been in his life along with the things that he has been reading in the  Book of Mormon. The Lord does hear and answer prayers and he softens the hearts of those that you love and cherish. And to then have a investigator work with you, in order to "share" the gospel and it's blessings, builds your testimony when you see her determination to carry on through the end. And then to speak to a new investigator who understands your message and feels the Spirit strong enough to accept a baptismal date. I have been inspired to become better because of the people that I serve here and the love that they have for me and the Lord. I have become determined and inspired to become what the Lord expects me to be because of the inspiration and miracles that He so graciously gives to me everyday.

But just as there is time for work there is enough time to take a picture of what it looks like when you are working in the vineyard of the Lord...your feet become something that would call "burnt". But it is all worth it :) 

I know that this is the work of the Lord and there are great blessings that are awaiting us, if only we will seek to learn what it is that the Lord is expecting of us and what our potential is. I know that the Lord has the power to change us through our faith, desire and diligence to become a son or daughter of our Heavenly Father. This is my greatest joy to be able to share this wonderful news with my fellow brothers and sisters. My work has inspired me to change, as I strive to help others to change. And I pray that my life may be filled with this desire until I shall be perfected in the presence of my Lord (sun burned feet and all).

Sister Pace

Philippines Legazpi Mission

Alma 42: 31

 

 



January 27, 2014

Hello,

This last week was a really great week about learning and becoming better. (And as I write that...I feel that I have probably said that multiple times...hope to explain it more ;P )

We had exchanges this week with the sisters in Legazpi. It was a really great time to learn about being a missionary. I think that is one of the greatest things that I love about being a Sister Training Leader...I get to learn from all the other sisters. And what a blessing it is to see the hand of the Lord in the work. I think sometimes I get to involved on what has to get done and what I haven't completed yet. But as I have taken the time to really see what is required in the work of the Lord, I have seen more blessings. We had many opportunities this week to see the love of God for all His children, despite their differences from us. I really saw the power of repentance...it is not just a process to overcome our weaknesses and sins, but an opportunity to really see what our potential is and what the Lord sees within us. It doesn't matter who or what we are...but the Lord wants each of us to turn to Him and find ourselves in Him. Even though I do not find myself in much of serious faults, but rather the daily difficulties I have to become like my Savior. But I have seen that through the Atonement, I can overcome that all and become something a little better...one at a time. He doesn't expect us to be perfect in one day...but He gives us His help in order to accomplish all that He hopes us to become. So may we continue to turn to Him and take His hand

January 20, 2014

Hello,

This week was really great. There were a lot of opportunities to learn from others and find ways to strengthen those that are entrusted to our care. We shared a wonderful Family Home Evening about Christlike Attributes, with members and our investigator. it was really touching to see the members come together to help our investigator come to feel of the love and joy in the gospel. And the best part of teaching lessons is when you learn at the same time. I loved teaching the members about obtaining these Christ-like attributes, in order to become more like our Savior and to find the peace and joy in our lives. True joy is not an easy thing to obtain in this life, but I have loved how I have found the support of the Lord through my study of the scriptures: 

 24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
 25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.
 26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

Matthew 16:24-26

28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you crest.
 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Matthew 11:28-30

I am so grateful to know that the Lord will help me along the way to become better and better each day...not through my own efforts or desire, but through the love and knowledge of my Heavenly Father.

I have had the wonderful opportunity to see the hand of the Lord in my life as I try to do the things which I have set my life apart for...His work and His glory. We have had some great times to share with other Sisters about the work and I am loving the trust that the Lord has given me to bless them and learn from them. I have also learned so much about the plan of our loving Heavenly Father...THE GREAT PLAN OF HAPPINESS. I have learned so much about what the Lord hopes for us...and how much HOPE we should have in Him and His plan. We work in hope, faith and charity for all things in this life (Moroni 7-40-48)...and what a blessing it is to see the Lord working through us. So to a new year and a dedication to remember the Lord in all things...here I go...another day...another week and another start to seeing the power of the Lord in my life. Because I know that He is always there for us....he is always loving and kind...and he will forever and always be our Father, to watch, guide and protect us, in this mortal life. How grateful I am to know these things!

Sister Pace

Philippines Legazpi Mission

Alma 42: 31

January 13, 2014

Kumusta!

This week was a really great week. We have had lots of experiences this week that have lead to really great learning experiences. We have had some really great progress with our investigators and we are in the trek for new investigators. We had Missionary Leadership Training this week and there was a lot that I learned that I hope to apply to the work here. I am really enjoying the calling as an STL and the opportunity to help other missionaries to reach the goals that Lord is expecting.  I am also learning so much about how to improve myself...it is such a great learning opportunity. In our efforts to reach the standards of excellence in the mission, we have been putting a great effort to talking  to all people...and what a blessing it has been. We have found several families that we are hoping will progress in our teachings and the blessings of the gospel. In the end, this week was a lot about learning to submit your will to the Lord and seek to find yourself in His work. I know that as we seek to give our hearts to Him and become selfless missionaries or disciples of Christ, we will find ourselves in His work-- "For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it" (Matthew 16: 25)

---Sister Pace---

Philippines Legazpi Mission

January 6, 2014

Kumusta!

This week was filled with plenty of experiences that have been a great open for a new year :) We began the week in preparation for the celebration of the new year. It is a big celebration here, just as much as Christmas. And the fireworks are as big as the fourth of July....just a little bigger and louder....and illegal. But was a great week of finding people and strengthening our investigators testimonies of the gospel.  My companion and housemates laughed at me, because during the firework show...I was asleep. I didn't get out of bed to see the fireworks...I was too tired. But we had a great experience with mice, rats, or whatever they were. We had something coming in the house and eating food in the trash and then trying to eat through doors. We bought some sticky pads...no result. We moved the trash outside...no result. And then we had an entire day of no power, which meant no water. So we had a large 60 liter container for water, that we had saved. Unfortunately, one of the Sisters left it open over the night.  This morning while doing laundry...I was fortunate to find a wonderful surprise in the water container. There were our two suspects...the size of my foot...dead....floating in the water container. Yeah...not too sure how I found the power to scoop them out and dispose of them and in the attempt of doing so, there was another suspect caught in the sticky pad. Our apartment is officially the rat and mouse killing apartment. 

We had some really great lessons with some of our investigators this week. Although we have been trying to continue to have people ready for baptism, it has been a challenge. But I am realizing more that missionary work is not so much about just baptizing people, but it is really about leading people to the water...through the right path. We had this occur with one member, whose wife is the Relief Society President. He has a desire to know, but it is through his desire that he must search and study the things that he must do. I am so very grateful for the opportunity to live here and strive everyday to share with others about the gospel. 

Sister Donato and I had a funny experience, but an inspirational one at that. We were walking past a fast food chain, called Jolly Bee. And this Jolly Bee is fancier than the other and has a drive thru. As we were walking by my companion turned to me and said, "Gusto mo ba mag-drive thru?" (would you like to drive thru?) and I said to her, "Pero wala akong kotse!" (But I don't have a car!) and then she did all she could to speak in English....and this is what she said, "But you don't need wheels to be driven." Although her English grammar was wrong, her saying was memorable...and it  inspired us for the rest of the week. I love speaking a different language...there are so many little things to learn.

With the new year we have focused on how we can improve ourselves for this coming year...how we can make resolutions to become better. It has been such a testimony builder to find that the Lord is there to guide and strengthen us in our efforts to become better. And so it has been a challenge that we have sought to give to others. Make resolutions this year that can help us to strive to become better...or to become more like HIM. And I know that it is all possible because of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is possible because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. And it is because of the love and guidance of Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father. I know that this new year is an opportunity to become a better person and seek for the understanding of what the LORD desires us to be.

---Sister Pace---

Philippines Legazpi Mission