Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, June 4, 2012
Wow! Has the moment really arrived?!
We´ve had a great week. Our new companion actually isn´t a greeny
from Guatemala. He´s got 14 months on the mission and he´s from Cuzco,
Peru. His name is Elder Gallegos, and he´s so much fun to have around. I
really love the trio. They´ve said that trios are a lot harder, but I´ve
found it to be more fun and effective. We just dominate the streets we
walk on talking to literally everyone! It´s great and it´s very
rewarding.
We´ve been working with two families who will be getting baptized
this week. Nailea and her mother were kind enough to work with me, and we
have their baptism scheduled for Thursday, right before I leave.
Gustavo, his wife Norma, and their son Luis, will be baptized on Sunday.
Gustavo and Norma still have to get married on Saturday, so that´s
partly why they couldn´t do it any earlier. Plus Gustavo´s non-member
mom wanted to be there, and she can only come on weekends. I figured
that she could benefit from being there a lot more than I could.
Mom, thanks again for sharing your TRC experience with me. I hope to
be able to go with you sometimes to relive some MTC feelings!
Thanks also for your prayers; I´ll have to share that with Pres.
Hicken so he can be re-assured that he receives direct inspiration.
I figured rather than have a "Thank-you-mony" when I speak in
church in a few weeks that it would be better to say thank you
here. First, to Mom. Thank you for being so consistent in writing me
literally every single week of my two year mission. I think there was
only one time that for technical issues I didn´t receive a letter from
her. Then to both Mom and Dad for all you´ve done for me in my life. I
know at times I didn´t want to listen or obey, but I know now that it
was always for my own good. You were developing something much greater
than just a little picky rule that you wanted me to obey. Thanks to
Jamie, Jessica and Derek for setting the example and motivating me to be
the best missionary I can be. Also to Nathan, Steph, Dallin and Tammie
for your constant motivation.
I know this is long, but just hang in there with me here... To the
following for constantly writing me throughout my mission: Linda
Campbell, Austin Duke, R-jay Rubio, Sis. Williamson, Jennifer Keele,
Grandma Keele, and Mariana Lopez. Thanks for anyone else from the family
or ward who sent letters of love and packages of support. Thanks for
all of your prayers, thoughts, and kind words in my behalf, whether I
heard them or not. I truly know and testify that the prayer of the
righteous is worth a lot, no matter how far away the receiver is. Thanks
to all those who have taken the time out of their daily busy lives to
read the weekly reports. Thanks for all of your love and support. I love
you all and am excited to be with you all again soon.
Last but not least, I´d like to bear my testimony to the world, (or
to just whoever reads the blog :) ) that the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-Day Saints is the one true church upon the face of the earth. Not
because we´re the first one, nor because we´re simply the best or
better than any other, but because this is where the Melchizedek
Priesthood of God is found on the earth. It´s the only church where sins
are washed away from baptism. The only church where families are sealed
not just for the time in this life, but for all of the eternities
without end. Joseph Smith is a prophet of God. Thomas S. Monson is in
direct communication with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, and he leads
and guides us today. The Book of Mormon is a sacred book of scripture
that contains the fulness of the gospel; in it´s original and intended
state. It was sent to us by a loving and perfect Father in Heaven. If we
read it and follow it, we will receive blessings without end. If we
choose to reject it, we deny ourselves of the blessings of eternity.
That is why this is the one true church.
My mission literally has changed my life. A substitute MTC teacher
said it best when he said that "The mission is like a rose bush. As we
go through it, a lot of times we can only see the thorns. But as we get
out and on to the other side, all we can see are the roses." I know that
our trials are for our good, but we need to look through our spiritual
eyes and not our natural eyes. Sometimes I´m not very good at that. I
can confidently say that I am truly converted to the gospel of Jesus
Christ. Our Savior truly knows and understands each of us. As we "Come
unto [Him]" with our whole hearts, leaving nothing behind, He can truly
heal us and help us feel at home wherever we are. I wish the blessings
and miracles of a mission for everyone; young and old; male and female.
Please prepare yourselves to serve an honorable full-time mission.
I´m grateful to say that I´ve "Returned with Honor" to my earthly
home. But I´ll be so happy the day that I can say that I´ve "Returned
with Honor" to my eternal home one day. I hope that none of us
ever forget what we truly desire. I pray that we can all say together
that we´ve "Returned with Honor" to our heavenly parents. In the name of
our Redeemer, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Elder Jordan F. Keele
Monday, May 28, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, May 28, 2012
My dear family, friends, and anyone else who happens to read this,
Last
Saturday was probably the happiest day of my mission so far. Going
through the temple with the Beltran family was absolutely amazing!
They´re such strong people, and I´ve learned more from their example
than
possibly any one else´s in my entire mission. I love them so much and
am so proud of them! Just to remind some of you about them, they had
consistently been going to church for about 7 years, but for government
and other legalization issues, they hadn´t been able to get married
civilly, and of course without that, they hadn´t been able to be
baptized. They used to live in a larger city, Pachuca, and in 5 years
had been the main source of over 30 other baptisms! A blessing that they
so much wanted but were unable to get at the time.
Well, a little over a year ago up in Molango, Elder
Castillo and Elder Lucas helped them with all the legal issues and were
finally able to work things out, get them married, and get them their
long awaited baptism. I got to Molango just 5 days after their
confirmation. Within weeks, I was honored with the privilege of
conferring Hno. David Beltran the Melchizedek priesthood. After about 5
months of officially being a member, he was called as the 2nd counselor
in the branch presidency. Only 2 months after that, his wife Clara was
called as the Relief Society president.
While up there, they lived between 2 and 3 hours away,
depending on the mudslides and rainfall. They maybe missed 1 or 2
Sundays in my 7 months there. They both have such strong testimonies and
such faith and devotion. It´s incredible.
Now that you know a little bit about them it just makes
this last Saturday so much more special. President Hicken had gotten
there early to do their final temple recommend interview, (acting as who
would be their Stake President in that case). We got a nice picture
just outside the temple with E. Castillo and me, Pres. and Sis. Hicken,
and the Familia Beltran. Their 23 year-old daughter is named Paola and
has down syndrome. Due to some other unexpected legal issues, Paola was
unable to enter to be sealed to her parents, but the missionaries are
going to work things out so that hopefully in a couple months they can
return and have her sealed as well.
The 2nd Counselor of the temple presidency, Pres. José
Jiménez B. performed the sealing. It was so special. Tears were at the
edge of my eyeballs ready to fall out, but I was able to keep them up
there ha ha. Bro. and Sis. Beltran though had a hard time with that. It
was such a blessing to see some of the other branch members and be with my
great friend, Elder Castillo.
While we were waiting for the bride and groom to enter
in the sealing room, I think there was another little earthquake. The
chandelier was ringing and the floor started rumbling, and then the
famous
words from Joseph Smith came into my head, "No unhallowed hand can stop
the work from progressing...".
The Molangan missionaries explained to us that Don
Chucho, the dueño of the house we lived in up there, finally got baptized last week!
Wahoo! I love that place with all my heart and can´t wait to hopefully
take some of you back there sometime.
There´s so much I wish I could tell you, but just don´t
have the time, (and I´m sure you don´t either :) ). But, I´m sure we´ll
have some nice chit-chats here in the not so distant future.
Bert, congratulations! I´m proud of you and your family.
I
would love to sing in that choir! I´m sure if we let Linda know in
advance they can work things out over there... I hope :) But if it´s ok
with Linda, then sign me up! I do like the beach boys, that´d be great!
We have a lot of work to do still. On Wednesday, as we
were told just this morning, we´ll be in a trio because there are a few
Guatemalans that are coming in. Don´t worry, even if I wanted to I can´t
"die" early because we´ll be with a greenie, and I need to be a good
example for him. I´m actually pleased with that news. It should be a
good week and a half with him.
Thanks to all for reading this looong e-mail, just hope
it was worth your time :) I love you all and hope you have another
wonderful week!
Hasta la próxima carta! (y última :..( )
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Monday, May 21, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, May 21, 2012
Amada Familia Keele,
Yahoo!! Justine was finally baptized yesterday! Although we ran
through some bumps along the way, she ended up getting baptized anyways.
Meaning that during the second hour we realized that the baptismal font
wasn´t filling up because the church ran out of water... so we tried to
hurry and find a place where she could quickly be baptized. We checked
with the local pool place at what would be the recreation center here,
and they were willing to have us do it there! (I kind of had to guilt
trip them though saying that if this person wasn´t baptized she wouldn´t
be able to come unto Christ ha ha). But as it turns out that wasn´t
necessary because the font at the stake center was already full cause
the elders there had a baptism too that morning. So we just all went
over there (like a 10 minute drive... not too bad). It was a great
service.
We´re praying and working hard for another miracle baptism to
happen this week. Joel and his grandma Magdalena are on the verge of
deciding to do it on Wednesday. They just need a little push and it´ll
happen. It truly is a great joy to work with them!
Ha ha I´m sure Louene and Angela both are happy it was a girl! Ha ha funny funny
I love that phrase "Converted to the Lord". When I first read that
about 6 months ago it really stood out to me. Like you said, it´s not
enough to be converted to the church, but to the Lord. After that it
repeats that phrase many times in the Book of Mormon, but not once does
it say converted to the church. That would make a great talk topic.
Today I had the opportunity to meet up with Elders Castillo and
Falslev (my best friends from the MTC, Elder Castillo was my companion
for a time up in Molango), and we went to visit the pyramids in
Teotihuacán for the last time. We were fortunate enough to buy a few
little gifts and souveniers, so all my worrying about that is done.
Elder Castillo and I were told that the Beltran family should be
entering the temple this Saturday. Also I got in contact with José
Contreras, (the one who called you about a year ago :) ), and he´s
apparently preparing for the temple as well. I hope he can before I
leave, but either way I´m super happy for him.
Thanks to everyone for everything. Every prayer in my behalf is
truly appreciated and is a strong motivation for me knowing that so many
are caring for me from so far away. Have a great week!
Love,
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, May 14, 2012
My dearest family,
Words can´t express how much I miss and love each one of you. What a
privilege it was to speak and see you all yesterday. Thanks for all
being there! The sloppy joes were delicious, along with the jell-o,
onion rings and fry sauce. I love America!
I´m almost positive I remember Mrs. I. . How cool that you got to
see her again doing the Lords work! What a good experience to remind us
to always be nice to people. We never know who´ll end up needing it the
most.
We have been having success, and I´m so grateful for it. It always
makes things feel a little bit smoother. It´s a blessing in so many
different ways to be the Lord's servant, and it´s something I wish
everyone could experience.
I love all of you and sincerely hope you all continue to stay in good health. Time continues to fly.
Elder Jordan Keele
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, May 7, 2012
Mom and all others,
I´m super excited to work at the SCERA again. I told
Linda that I just felt like it was the right place for me to be
afterwards. I honestly loved it. It´s a great environment, and I feel
like it would be a great opportunity to make a difference in some of the
young volunteers lives. I´m happy to hear that she´s counting on me!
Lots of meetings again this past
week, and lots of things to do. It´s good to keep busy as long as we´re
keeping busy doing what´s right. I´ve had a great week and have really
come closer to my companion in the past few days. He´s a great
missionary and I´ve been able to learn a lot from him. We continue to
progress everyday and are blessed to be helping others along the way as
well.
I was told that the Beltran family will be entering
the temple on the 26th of this month. I´m looking forward to reuniting
with the Molangan branch. I just hope most of them can come. I should be
going home on time then, so no worries about that.
Last week we went to a kid-museum, a technology museum in the
bosque de chapultepec. It´s south of where I´m at right now. Everything
else, (except for the roller-coaster fair), was closed. I wanted to go
to the roller coasters, but of course, we couldn´t. That´s all right. We
had a fun time. Then we made a quick stop to the Zocalo and saw
thousands of people flying kites there. It was pretty neat.
Elder Hoover and I have been really blessed with
some "miracle people" who magically show up to sacrament meeting the
past few weeks. We´re currently working with an 18 year-old daughter of a
convert family that was baptized about 6 years ago. Justine, (the 18
year-old daughter), was formerly a bit rebellious and has never even
wanted to go to church. Well, she´s come two weeks straight and we´re
hoping that her baptism will happen if not this weekend, then soon.
Wow, Steph, I´m so super proud of you! Eres una campeona! On and off the field :) Congrats on the wins!
Wow, Steph, I´m so super proud of you! Eres una campeona! On and off the field :) Congrats on the wins!
About
Sunday, I´m just going to say 6:00 my time will work out well. I´m
sorry I
don´t know what that is your time. I think 5:00? Anyways, I´ll probably
be using an account of Jodene Paulsen, so if you see her, be sure to
accept the call! If there are any issues, I can probably just use her
"Magic Jack" to call and make sure all is set up right. So we´ll be in
touch. I love you all and can´t wait to see you on Sunday! If you can't
work it out with Derek, no worries. It would be neat to see
him for a few minutes, but maybe it´d be best not to be as hectic as
last time. But
either way I'll be happy to see you! Nos vemos el Domingo! 6:00!
Elder Jordan Keele
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, Apr. 30, 2012
Mom,
I know we're late, but I figured it'd
be better to let you know that I'm safe and sound here in Mexico City.
We had an extremely busy day, partly because we had been invited to go
to Chapultepec by a member, and with permission from Pres. Hicken, we
were able to go and have a good time. Then after we got back we were
busy with some appointments and changes and things, so, yeah. That's why
I'm late.
Maybe you could
look of the food "flautas"... essentially taquitos but with sour cream
and lettuce and aguacate. It's really good. Great thinking!
I'm sorry I haven't thought of a time for skype... probably like 6:00 my time if that's alright.
I
promise you I'm trying to be as obedient as possible. I know you would
rather have me say that than I've baptized 5,000 people in my mission ha
ha. I'm trying. I love this work and there's nothing I'd rather do.
I love you mom, I want you to know and to feel that.
We need to be a light of positivity to all around us. Thank you. Have a
great week!
Elder Jordan Keele
Elder Jordan Keele, April 23, 2012
NOOOOOOOOOO!!!!
The secretaries mailed me a form that I have to
fill out titled "Go home info". Yeah, that was real nice of them! ha ha
I'm not worried about it though. We're still doing well here and just
as it hadn't hit me that I was going on a mission until the day I entered
the MTC, I'm sure it won't hit me that I'm going home until I get
there... at least I hope that's what'll happen.
Other than that we had a great week. We've been
"hanging out" I guess you could call it, with Jeff Thomson who is
studying at BYU right now. He married a girl from this ward, and they're
here in town visiting her family. Jeff came with us to play soccer with
another zone this morning, followed by some delicious Carnitas with his
Father-in-law who really knows how to cook. I LOVE TACOS! Cynthia,
Jeff's wife, cuts hair in Provo and gives scalp massages. I told her I'd
totally go have her practice on me! ha ha free stuff!
That was nice of you, and of Derek to write his trainer. I'm sure they're getting along great, just as they should be.
Another long Utah story: Sis. Jodine Paulsen,
from Saratoga Springs, UT has offered for us to use her computer to skype
home. She married a Mexican and they are here living for VISA issues of her
husband. Once they get it they're heading up to live in the states. I'm
sure we'll probably skype later in the afternoon on Sunday. I agree also
with the separate skype thing. It got a little complicated last time.
Steph, I knew you'd be great at track! Congratulations! I'm proud that you stuck with it. Good luck at Alpine days!
Nathan... I don't have anything to say to you ha ha.
The Stake Aragón is where the temple is. We go
to that building all the time... in fact, we're going again tonight to
drop off some pouch stuff. I haven't served in that stake, but I guess
you could say I know it pretty well. At least some parts of it.
Thanks again for all that is done for me. Do as
EL DEReKEELE says: read and pray, every day, and just be a happy people
:) I guess you could say that's my advice for today. Love and hugs! (No
kisses though, because I still can't do that yet ha ha jk).
Elder Jordan Keele
Monday, April 23, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, April 16, 2012
I had a good week. I taught a lot of people about Jesus Christ and about getting baptized and about going to church and keeping the commandments and about peace and love and eternal happiness and about where we came from before this life and why we're here and where we're going after we die and about having faith in Christ and about His atonement and about the Book of Mormon and how it's such a crucial tool in our lives and about rescuing the less active members and about helping each other return to heaven and about eternal families. I think that was all. Oh, and about not smoking or drinking alcohol or tea or tobacco or doing drugs and about the law of chastity and about paying tithing and about keeping the sabbath day holy and not taking the Lord's name in vain and about being diligent and obedient and about the gift of the Holy Ghost. Yeah, I'm pretty sure that was it. Wait, we also taught people about the gift of prayer and about how we can repent and be clean from our sins and about enduring to the end. Oh yeah, I almost forgot, we taught about Joseph Smith and the apostasy and the priesthood and about prophets and about the restoration and how Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have bodies of flesh and blood. I'm sure there was more but you're probably bored by now.
The bishop gave Elder Hoover and me the opportunity to speak in Sacrament Meeting yesterday, and I titled my talk "Si queremos mirar..."--Alma 37:41. We really felt a new vibe at church and feel good about the progress that has been recently made. We hope to continue to help the members and non-members here in the ward to become truly converted to the gospel of Jesus Christ. It's been a great week.
Steph, happy quinceañera! You should buy a nice fancy dress, take some model-like pictures, throw a huge party, dance with Dad, and buy lots of balloons and play loud music to celebrate right there in the cul-de-sac. That's how it's done here! ha ha
Poor Lady dog. I'm gonna miss her. I was hoping to see her soon, but I guess I'll just have to wait a little bit longer before I can see her again.
Mom, thank you for that inspiring and motivating experience. I'm definitely using your missionary child/earth life comparison in a future talk :)
Say hi to Diego for me, I'm sure he's doing great and happy to be back home. Keep safe and have another joyful week back at school and all.
Love Elder Jordan Keele
The bishop gave Elder Hoover and me the opportunity to speak in Sacrament Meeting yesterday, and I titled my talk "Si queremos mirar..."--Alma 37:41. We really felt a new vibe at church and feel good about the progress that has been recently made. We hope to continue to help the members and non-members here in the ward to become truly converted to the gospel of Jesus Christ. It's been a great week.
Steph, happy quinceañera! You should buy a nice fancy dress, take some model-like pictures, throw a huge party, dance with Dad, and buy lots of balloons and play loud music to celebrate right there in the cul-de-sac. That's how it's done here! ha ha
Poor Lady dog. I'm gonna miss her. I was hoping to see her soon, but I guess I'll just have to wait a little bit longer before I can see her again.
Mom, thank you for that inspiring and motivating experience. I'm definitely using your missionary child/earth life comparison in a future talk :)
Say hi to Diego for me, I'm sure he's doing great and happy to be back home. Keep safe and have another joyful week back at school and all.
Love Elder Jordan Keele
Monday, April 9, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, Apr. 9, 2012
Blessed Family,
Elder Hoover and I continue to work hard and continue to be blessed every day. Last night I stayed awake in bed for quite a while with overwhelming feelings of appreciation for the bounteous blessings I've been given throughout my mission, and throughout my life. Dad, Mom, Jamie, Travis, Jessica, Derek, Nathan, Stephanie, Dallin, Tammie, all extended family, and all other friends and acquaintances, I love you! The mission in and of itself is a miracle. I'm loving every moment of it, even the difficult ones.
Friday and Saturday we had no one signed up to give us food in the Relief Society, so after talking briefly with investigator Julieta, she fed us my favorite: Pozole rojo... both days ha ha. It was delicious. Julieta for some reason reminds me a lot of "Ma" down in Argentina. Although I don't remember her very much, I think of her as I'm with Julieta. She's a very sweet lady and has a very strong testimony of the truth. I got a feeling of a job well done when she bore testimony about Joseph Smith and the true church of Christ yesterday in Gospel Principles class. She'll be a great member. She was baptized yesterday with her 24 year-old daughter Carolina. The grandson's name is Cristian, and is only 6, but he already can't wait for his baptism!
I'm telling ya, the Lord works miracles today just as much as he did in the past, if not more. We met this family 18 days ago on a Thursday afternoon, and just like that they changed their lives. It's amazing how quickly the work goes on in these areas.
I'm fully aware that baptisms don't always mean success, nor does success always mean baptisms. But I also know that as we do all we can as missionaries, we will baptize everyone that wants it in their own due time, and we will be successful missionaries- with or without numbers. We can't run faster than we have strength, and we definitely can't ask that of our investigators.
That must be a bit of an interesting situation with the Krasnoselsky family. They're such great people. Also what coincidences you seem to find, and I think these things are happening more and more frequently!
This work is true, there's no doubt about it. Let us keep on progressing everyday. I love and thank all ya'll.
Elder Jordan Keele
Elder Hoover and I continue to work hard and continue to be blessed every day. Last night I stayed awake in bed for quite a while with overwhelming feelings of appreciation for the bounteous blessings I've been given throughout my mission, and throughout my life. Dad, Mom, Jamie, Travis, Jessica, Derek, Nathan, Stephanie, Dallin, Tammie, all extended family, and all other friends and acquaintances, I love you! The mission in and of itself is a miracle. I'm loving every moment of it, even the difficult ones.
Friday and Saturday we had no one signed up to give us food in the Relief Society, so after talking briefly with investigator Julieta, she fed us my favorite: Pozole rojo... both days ha ha. It was delicious. Julieta for some reason reminds me a lot of "Ma" down in Argentina. Although I don't remember her very much, I think of her as I'm with Julieta. She's a very sweet lady and has a very strong testimony of the truth. I got a feeling of a job well done when she bore testimony about Joseph Smith and the true church of Christ yesterday in Gospel Principles class. She'll be a great member. She was baptized yesterday with her 24 year-old daughter Carolina. The grandson's name is Cristian, and is only 6, but he already can't wait for his baptism!
I'm telling ya, the Lord works miracles today just as much as he did in the past, if not more. We met this family 18 days ago on a Thursday afternoon, and just like that they changed their lives. It's amazing how quickly the work goes on in these areas.
I'm fully aware that baptisms don't always mean success, nor does success always mean baptisms. But I also know that as we do all we can as missionaries, we will baptize everyone that wants it in their own due time, and we will be successful missionaries- with or without numbers. We can't run faster than we have strength, and we definitely can't ask that of our investigators.
That must be a bit of an interesting situation with the Krasnoselsky family. They're such great people. Also what coincidences you seem to find, and I think these things are happening more and more frequently!
This work is true, there's no doubt about it. Let us keep on progressing everyday. I love and thank all ya'll.
Elder Jordan Keele
Monday, April 2, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, April 2, 2012
Estimado familia,
Elder Hoover and I have had a pretty good week. We had quite a few meetings, interviews, and other such time-takers, but we were able to use what we did have anyway to have a productive week. I love feeling the spirit as we teach a family that's progressing. I love teaching about the restoration of prophets and apostles along with all the other blessings God has re-given us since the time of Joseph Smith. The church is true... enough said.
I really did love conference. Learning from last October, I stayed with the investigators that attended the sessions rather than pridefully isolating myself with other English speakers to watch it in English. It's really not bad in Spanish even with the translators. They do a great work that is a blessing to many.
I had the thought as I was trying to take notes personally directed to me by the spirit, that we could have a "general conference" type experience everyday. I'm sure everyone feels an overwhelming feeling that they need to be better after every conference. But, as we read the scriptures directly applying every scripture to ourselves for that specific day, we can make sure that we are progressing day by day. I look forward to continually putting it into daily practice so that I truly can be closer to my Savior day by day.
I did see Jason Christensen! I was actually looking for him and Taylor Ball because I had forgotten when they entered, but I figured at least one of them would have been in the choir. I didn't see David Archuleta though, but was later told that he was there. What a neat experience he'll have if he does go to Antofogasta.
I feel like I want to be an entremaneur when I grow up. (jk, I know that's not the word :)). That dog dealing doesn't sound like too bad of a deal.
This morning we went to play soccer with the zone and suddenly I started feeling a bit nauseated. Within seconds somebody yelled "està temblando!" (6.3 aftershock). It wasn't quite as bad nor as long as two weeks ago, but they seem to becoming more and more frequently. Good thing we have like 20ish gallons of water in the house!
Keep strong, keep reading, keep testifying, and the Savior will be here in no time. Con mucho amor y aprecio,
Elder Jordan Keele
Elder Hoover and I have had a pretty good week. We had quite a few meetings, interviews, and other such time-takers, but we were able to use what we did have anyway to have a productive week. I love feeling the spirit as we teach a family that's progressing. I love teaching about the restoration of prophets and apostles along with all the other blessings God has re-given us since the time of Joseph Smith. The church is true... enough said.
I really did love conference. Learning from last October, I stayed with the investigators that attended the sessions rather than pridefully isolating myself with other English speakers to watch it in English. It's really not bad in Spanish even with the translators. They do a great work that is a blessing to many.
I had the thought as I was trying to take notes personally directed to me by the spirit, that we could have a "general conference" type experience everyday. I'm sure everyone feels an overwhelming feeling that they need to be better after every conference. But, as we read the scriptures directly applying every scripture to ourselves for that specific day, we can make sure that we are progressing day by day. I look forward to continually putting it into daily practice so that I truly can be closer to my Savior day by day.
I did see Jason Christensen! I was actually looking for him and Taylor Ball because I had forgotten when they entered, but I figured at least one of them would have been in the choir. I didn't see David Archuleta though, but was later told that he was there. What a neat experience he'll have if he does go to Antofogasta.
I feel like I want to be an entremaneur when I grow up. (jk, I know that's not the word :)). That dog dealing doesn't sound like too bad of a deal.
This morning we went to play soccer with the zone and suddenly I started feeling a bit nauseated. Within seconds somebody yelled "està temblando!" (6.3 aftershock). It wasn't quite as bad nor as long as two weeks ago, but they seem to becoming more and more frequently. Good thing we have like 20ish gallons of water in the house!
Keep strong, keep reading, keep testifying, and the Savior will be here in no time. Con mucho amor y aprecio,
Elder Jordan Keele
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Monday, March 26, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, Mar. 26, 2012
Dear family,
My former companion, E. Terry, is Peruano and he had visa issues, so he came as soon as his visa got in. He went to stake Aragon, only like 20 minutes away from me, but it's a different zone.
I have a new companion. His name is Elder Hoover. Fortunately I got to stay in my area. I really love it here and there are always so many people and families around that are willing to listen. I've already learned a lot from E. Hoover. He's a convert from Los Angeles of 3 years. He's the only member of all his family, and they weren't very happy of his decision to go on a mission... but at least I am :) We've had a great week, and I'm sure we'll continue to be happy and have success as we put the Lord in charge of all we do.
Ha ha. Those early morning piano lessons were definitely worth it. In fact, yesterday Elder Hoover and I did a special musical number in Sacrament meeting. He's a great singer, and I played the piano for him. It was really good. The members seemed to really feel the spirit. Incluso el patriarca que se levantó para discursar justo después y casi no pudo hablar... tuvo dificultades controlando las lágrimas. Estuvo bueno.
As I wrote you earlier, I did feel the earthquake. Because of some last minute packing, we didn't get to the traditional "Burger King breakfast right before changes meeting" this time, but it's ok. That wasn't very important. I was in a taxi and definitely felt the earthquake, but it really didn't effect me. I guess you could say it was kind of cool :)
Nathan, I really don't know what to tell ya :) Maybe we'll talk some after I return ha ha.
Jessica, I really don't know what to tell you either :) I'm sure we'll do some talking after the mission.
I'm stoked for conference. We'll be going to the stake center chapel in Ward Campestre Aragon in our stake Vergel. It's only about a 25 peso taxi ride there, but I'm sure we'll hitch a ride with some members or hopefully investigators. I'm sure it'll be a great weekend.
We're off to get a new mattress for my companion... he's not a big fan of having the springs spear through his back as he's trying to sleep :) weird...jk. I love you all and pray that you continue to stay safe and be good... at least until I get home :) ha ha
Love,
Elder Jordan Keele
My former companion, E. Terry, is Peruano and he had visa issues, so he came as soon as his visa got in. He went to stake Aragon, only like 20 minutes away from me, but it's a different zone.
I have a new companion. His name is Elder Hoover. Fortunately I got to stay in my area. I really love it here and there are always so many people and families around that are willing to listen. I've already learned a lot from E. Hoover. He's a convert from Los Angeles of 3 years. He's the only member of all his family, and they weren't very happy of his decision to go on a mission... but at least I am :) We've had a great week, and I'm sure we'll continue to be happy and have success as we put the Lord in charge of all we do.
Ha ha. Those early morning piano lessons were definitely worth it. In fact, yesterday Elder Hoover and I did a special musical number in Sacrament meeting. He's a great singer, and I played the piano for him. It was really good. The members seemed to really feel the spirit. Incluso el patriarca que se levantó para discursar justo después y casi no pudo hablar... tuvo dificultades controlando las lágrimas. Estuvo bueno.
As I wrote you earlier, I did feel the earthquake. Because of some last minute packing, we didn't get to the traditional "Burger King breakfast right before changes meeting" this time, but it's ok. That wasn't very important. I was in a taxi and definitely felt the earthquake, but it really didn't effect me. I guess you could say it was kind of cool :)
Nathan, I really don't know what to tell ya :) Maybe we'll talk some after I return ha ha.
Jessica, I really don't know what to tell you either :) I'm sure we'll do some talking after the mission.
I'm stoked for conference. We'll be going to the stake center chapel in Ward Campestre Aragon in our stake Vergel. It's only about a 25 peso taxi ride there, but I'm sure we'll hitch a ride with some members or hopefully investigators. I'm sure it'll be a great weekend.
We're off to get a new mattress for my companion... he's not a big fan of having the springs spear through his back as he's trying to sleep :) weird...jk. I love you all and pray that you continue to stay safe and be good... at least until I get home :) ha ha
Love,
Elder Jordan Keele
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, Mar 19, 2012
Ah, how ya'll doin? It's been a crazy day, and a pretty crazy week too.
To start things off, my current companion Elder Terry (from el Callao, Peru) has changes tomorrow. We've been busy cleaning and packing and goodbying today. We'll find out what kind of things the Lord has in store for me tomorrow.
Last Thursday was Zone Conference. It was really good. Sis. Hicken said that "If you're sleeping in in the mornings, you're telling the Lord you love sleep more than Him (Juan 14:15)". Wow, what a statement. It was a good and inspiring day. I got your sweet valentines package last Thursday. I was told I got a couple other letters but my naughty zone leaders left before giving them to me. I hope tomorrow I can find what once was lost. Also, Pres. Hicken asked me to thank you, Mom, for making me learn piano. He said it's been a blessing to all the mission and to many other members. It was a nice thing of him to say, and it's all for you :)
Nathan, happy birthday to you on Sunday! Also to Mark. Are they really 17 and 18? I'll have to see it to believe it.
Saturday we were able to get Jorge and Rosa married, interviewed and baptized all in the same day. It was a busy day, but a very beneficial one. They're such sweet people, and I would say the most prepared converts I've baptized on my entire mission. They were confirmed on Sunday during Sacrament meeting.
Hna. Rosa made us delicious green enchiladas with steak today (my favorite!) as a goodbye gift to Elder Terry. He's been a great companion and I've learned a lot from him. I know it was the Lord's will to have him as my companion this last cycle.
Zuleima's mom, Azucena, had to celebrate her birthday yesterday and couldn't come to church. Too many birthdays lately. I think it's time for a break. But they seem to be progressing. We told her that the Virgin Mary is just a myth and that it's not from God. She accepted that teaching very well. If she can get over that tradition so easily, she should have no problem getting over all the rest.
Well I've been to the temple, but we're not allowed to do a session except for Christmas and as a goodbye present. It was a blessing to go with the Molanga Branch so frequently. Also, I've checked the museum and it says they're closed on Mondays. (How convenient of them). I'll try and figure out a way to go there sometime. If not, it'll have to wait until after.
Elder Terry says the food is way different, and he hates Mexican food. He makes me look like a pig because he never wants to eat anything ha ha. But I still love it! He's from Lima, a town called El Callao. Supposedly it's a dangerous area.
Ha ha poor Japanese girls! Fortunately we've had zero pest problems since the "Rosita the rat" incident. It's getting warmer here lately too, but I hope that doesn't mean more bugs.
Wow, it is a small world! You seem to always have amazing little connections with people everywhere you go! I bet that's always neat.
Sorry to not have much time today, but I'll send pictures next week. I love you all and hope you have another great week of March.
Elder Jordan Keele
To start things off, my current companion Elder Terry (from el Callao, Peru) has changes tomorrow. We've been busy cleaning and packing and goodbying today. We'll find out what kind of things the Lord has in store for me tomorrow.
Last Thursday was Zone Conference. It was really good. Sis. Hicken said that "If you're sleeping in in the mornings, you're telling the Lord you love sleep more than Him (Juan 14:15)". Wow, what a statement. It was a good and inspiring day. I got your sweet valentines package last Thursday. I was told I got a couple other letters but my naughty zone leaders left before giving them to me. I hope tomorrow I can find what once was lost. Also, Pres. Hicken asked me to thank you, Mom, for making me learn piano. He said it's been a blessing to all the mission and to many other members. It was a nice thing of him to say, and it's all for you :)
Nathan, happy birthday to you on Sunday! Also to Mark. Are they really 17 and 18? I'll have to see it to believe it.
Saturday we were able to get Jorge and Rosa married, interviewed and baptized all in the same day. It was a busy day, but a very beneficial one. They're such sweet people, and I would say the most prepared converts I've baptized on my entire mission. They were confirmed on Sunday during Sacrament meeting.
Hna. Rosa made us delicious green enchiladas with steak today (my favorite!) as a goodbye gift to Elder Terry. He's been a great companion and I've learned a lot from him. I know it was the Lord's will to have him as my companion this last cycle.
Zuleima's mom, Azucena, had to celebrate her birthday yesterday and couldn't come to church. Too many birthdays lately. I think it's time for a break. But they seem to be progressing. We told her that the Virgin Mary is just a myth and that it's not from God. She accepted that teaching very well. If she can get over that tradition so easily, she should have no problem getting over all the rest.
Well I've been to the temple, but we're not allowed to do a session except for Christmas and as a goodbye present. It was a blessing to go with the Molanga Branch so frequently. Also, I've checked the museum and it says they're closed on Mondays. (How convenient of them). I'll try and figure out a way to go there sometime. If not, it'll have to wait until after.
Elder Terry says the food is way different, and he hates Mexican food. He makes me look like a pig because he never wants to eat anything ha ha. But I still love it! He's from Lima, a town called El Callao. Supposedly it's a dangerous area.
Ha ha poor Japanese girls! Fortunately we've had zero pest problems since the "Rosita the rat" incident. It's getting warmer here lately too, but I hope that doesn't mean more bugs.
Wow, it is a small world! You seem to always have amazing little connections with people everywhere you go! I bet that's always neat.
Sorry to not have much time today, but I'll send pictures next week. I love you all and hope you have another great week of March.
Elder Jordan Keele
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, Mar. 12, 2012
Blessed family,
I'm still a missionary, and I'm still doing missionary work everyday. I hope that's not a surprise to anyone. I can't say that we've had an "average" week, because frankly that doesn't exist in the mission field. Jorge and Rosa had to go out of town for a job offer, so they still haven't been able to join the rest of the family. But I trust them and know that they'll do it as soon as they can.
Meanwhile, we were privileged to find another family that is interested in hearing us. The two parents and the two kids were all planning to come to church yesterday, but because of some last-minute complications only the oldest daughter, (Zuleima) was able to go. She's a 19 year old single mother, but she really seemed interested in what we have to teach. She enjoyed church, and during the gospel principles class I enjoyed distracting and playing with her little 1 year-old Luciano so his mother could stay focused and learn about modern day prophets.
I'm sad that Uncle Wendell passed on, but I know that death is only a portal to life. I hope Aunt Arlene continues to hold up and do well. I'd like to see her after I return.
There's nothing like a spiritual impression that confirms a correct decision. Thanks for sharing that experience. I always love reading about your stories. People may think that daily spiritual experiences are only for missionaries, but you're living proof that that's just a myth! They're there for everyone who wants them. All it takes is righteous living.
Ha ha Jess that's kind of a funny story. Just be sure and keep me updated on these things. And if you do get engaged before Mother's day, don't wait until then to let me know :) [Jessica really isn't getting engaged]
We have a Zone Conference this Thursday, followed by an interview with Pres. Hicken to renew my temple recommend before it expires. We'll receive any letters that have arrived on Thursday. Thanks for your support.
Thanks for everything, and I love you all!
Elder Jordan Keele
I'm still a missionary, and I'm still doing missionary work everyday. I hope that's not a surprise to anyone. I can't say that we've had an "average" week, because frankly that doesn't exist in the mission field. Jorge and Rosa had to go out of town for a job offer, so they still haven't been able to join the rest of the family. But I trust them and know that they'll do it as soon as they can.
Meanwhile, we were privileged to find another family that is interested in hearing us. The two parents and the two kids were all planning to come to church yesterday, but because of some last-minute complications only the oldest daughter, (Zuleima) was able to go. She's a 19 year old single mother, but she really seemed interested in what we have to teach. She enjoyed church, and during the gospel principles class I enjoyed distracting and playing with her little 1 year-old Luciano so his mother could stay focused and learn about modern day prophets.
I'm sad that Uncle Wendell passed on, but I know that death is only a portal to life. I hope Aunt Arlene continues to hold up and do well. I'd like to see her after I return.
There's nothing like a spiritual impression that confirms a correct decision. Thanks for sharing that experience. I always love reading about your stories. People may think that daily spiritual experiences are only for missionaries, but you're living proof that that's just a myth! They're there for everyone who wants them. All it takes is righteous living.
Ha ha Jess that's kind of a funny story. Just be sure and keep me updated on these things. And if you do get engaged before Mother's day, don't wait until then to let me know :) [Jessica really isn't getting engaged]
We have a Zone Conference this Thursday, followed by an interview with Pres. Hicken to renew my temple recommend before it expires. We'll receive any letters that have arrived on Thursday. Thanks for your support.
Thanks for everything, and I love you all!
Elder Jordan Keele
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, Mar. 5, 2012
Dear Family,
Elder Terry and I have had a good week. We've really been blessed by the Lord for our efforts, and I know that He'll continue to do so as we simply do our part. Wednesday afternoon as we were at the church filling up the font. We suddenly heard water spraying as if somebody was using a hose. We were in the chapel studying, and as soon as we heard the noise we went to go find out what it was. As I turned the corner and looked down the hallway I saw a waterfall coming from the ceiling and spilling onto the floor in a great sum. We had no idea how that was happening, so we didn't know how we could stop it.
We soon realized the the water pump, (which was supposed to be automatic) had a piece newly broken which caused the sensor not to read the water level of the giant barrel things of water hiding up in the ceiling. We finally managed to turn it off, but the church floor was a disaster! We called in some recruits (the Elders from Barrio Jordan), and they came to help us clean up the flood. Water had run all the way down the hall and into each of the classrooms, (except for the nursery room where there was carpet...that was a miracle). However, we were able to clean it all up before anyone got there for the baptism. We threw some floor cleaner as we swept the water out because we decided to take advantage and clean the tile really nice while we were at it.
The baptism was very special, although Jorge and Rosa María were unable to participate that day. They decided it would be best not to have the others wait for them. Jorge and Rosa are planning to join the rest of the family this weekend. It was a good night.
Sounds like things continue to be busy, as usual, back at home. I hope everyone continues to do well and that we all can make right choices. I love you all!
Elder Jordan Keele
Elder Terry and I have had a good week. We've really been blessed by the Lord for our efforts, and I know that He'll continue to do so as we simply do our part. Wednesday afternoon as we were at the church filling up the font. We suddenly heard water spraying as if somebody was using a hose. We were in the chapel studying, and as soon as we heard the noise we went to go find out what it was. As I turned the corner and looked down the hallway I saw a waterfall coming from the ceiling and spilling onto the floor in a great sum. We had no idea how that was happening, so we didn't know how we could stop it.
We soon realized the the water pump, (which was supposed to be automatic) had a piece newly broken which caused the sensor not to read the water level of the giant barrel things of water hiding up in the ceiling. We finally managed to turn it off, but the church floor was a disaster! We called in some recruits (the Elders from Barrio Jordan), and they came to help us clean up the flood. Water had run all the way down the hall and into each of the classrooms, (except for the nursery room where there was carpet...that was a miracle). However, we were able to clean it all up before anyone got there for the baptism. We threw some floor cleaner as we swept the water out because we decided to take advantage and clean the tile really nice while we were at it.
The baptism was very special, although Jorge and Rosa María were unable to participate that day. They decided it would be best not to have the others wait for them. Jorge and Rosa are planning to join the rest of the family this weekend. It was a good night.
Sounds like things continue to be busy, as usual, back at home. I hope everyone continues to do well and that we all can make right choices. I love you all!
Elder Jordan Keele
Monday, February 27, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, Feb. 27, 2012
Hola,
On Saturday morning we called Pres. Hicken to ask for permission to go to the Distribution Center at the temple to buy my companion a white tie for the baptisms (which actually didn't happen yesterday, ahorita I'll explain why). Usually Pres. Hicken, without a doubt, gives permission for things like that, but this time he was a bit hesitant in letting us go. I didn't know why, but after some thought he said yes.
As we arrived at the store, right as I was about to go inside, I saw Hno. Julio Ramírez from Molango! I quickly yelled for him and he turned around and had a huge smile on his face, as did I, and we gave each other a quick handshake and hug. I thought maybe he had just come alone because I remember him telling me he was going to come in February to be baptized for an uncle that died last year. But no, the entire branch, (well, most of them) came! It was such a surprise and miracle! That's probably why Pres. Hicken was hesitant in letting me go, but either way I had no idea they were going to be there.
I got to say hi to the majority of the members. It was such a sweet little reunion, even if it was just for a few minutes. I actually had a dream of them last Wednesday night and woke up missing them a lot. It was a sweet little tender mercy that the Lord saw fit to give me.
We found out Saturday night that Hno. Jorge and Sis. Rosa María aren't legally married, so we're going to get them married on Wednesday and have the baptism the same day. They're progressing really well and the ward is proud to have them there. All 7 of them are really excited for the special day.
I miss all of you too, but time is going quickly. Before you know it I'll be married and have 3 kids! Ha ha, ok, one step at a time...
Rjay and I write even if it's just a sentence or two every week. We're still best of friends and I look forward to seeing him in about 6 months. I'm happy his family still lives in Orem, it'll be fun to visit with them as well.
I hope Marlo can just hang in there a bit longer! I'd like to see him before anything else happens.
I'm sure it's nice for everyone to have Dad home for an extra week-day. It's nice that his work is so flexible and understanding.
I know everyone would be interested to hear that I conquered the pigs feet! I don't know if you'll remember, but in my first couple weeks in Mexico I was given a tostada with gelatin-like nasty pig feet cubes. Well, yesterday I was given the offer, and I couldn't turn it down. It wasn't as bad as I had remembered it to be. I can now honestly say that I've been able to eat everything that's been given to me!
Elder Jordan Keele
On Saturday morning we called Pres. Hicken to ask for permission to go to the Distribution Center at the temple to buy my companion a white tie for the baptisms (which actually didn't happen yesterday, ahorita I'll explain why). Usually Pres. Hicken, without a doubt, gives permission for things like that, but this time he was a bit hesitant in letting us go. I didn't know why, but after some thought he said yes.
As we arrived at the store, right as I was about to go inside, I saw Hno. Julio Ramírez from Molango! I quickly yelled for him and he turned around and had a huge smile on his face, as did I, and we gave each other a quick handshake and hug. I thought maybe he had just come alone because I remember him telling me he was going to come in February to be baptized for an uncle that died last year. But no, the entire branch, (well, most of them) came! It was such a surprise and miracle! That's probably why Pres. Hicken was hesitant in letting me go, but either way I had no idea they were going to be there.
I got to say hi to the majority of the members. It was such a sweet little reunion, even if it was just for a few minutes. I actually had a dream of them last Wednesday night and woke up missing them a lot. It was a sweet little tender mercy that the Lord saw fit to give me.
We found out Saturday night that Hno. Jorge and Sis. Rosa María aren't legally married, so we're going to get them married on Wednesday and have the baptism the same day. They're progressing really well and the ward is proud to have them there. All 7 of them are really excited for the special day.
I miss all of you too, but time is going quickly. Before you know it I'll be married and have 3 kids! Ha ha, ok, one step at a time...
Rjay and I write even if it's just a sentence or two every week. We're still best of friends and I look forward to seeing him in about 6 months. I'm happy his family still lives in Orem, it'll be fun to visit with them as well.
I hope Marlo can just hang in there a bit longer! I'd like to see him before anything else happens.
I'm sure it's nice for everyone to have Dad home for an extra week-day. It's nice that his work is so flexible and understanding.
I know everyone would be interested to hear that I conquered the pigs feet! I don't know if you'll remember, but in my first couple weeks in Mexico I was given a tostada with gelatin-like nasty pig feet cubes. Well, yesterday I was given the offer, and I couldn't turn it down. It wasn't as bad as I had remembered it to be. I can now honestly say that I've been able to eat everything that's been given to me!
Elder Jordan Keele
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, Feb. 20, 2012
Wow, amazing week... and the upcoming one will be even better.
A couple months ago Elder De Hoyos in a Zone Conference suggested that when we're teaching a family that we ask them to think of someone they can invite for the next lesson. Well, Jorge (50ish) [Jorge is the man we taught Amos 8 to...], his wife Rosa María (45ish) and their daughter Catia (11) did just that. For our second visit not only were they all there, but Rosa María had invited her sister María Elena and her three kids: Jacqueline, Andrés, and Angela. They're such a faithful and obedient family! They truly are a miracle. Hno. Jorge says he's been searching all his life for the true church, but that every time he had left a different church he said that emptiness was always there. He could never feel satisfied. Well in their first visit to our church he said he felt "full", just as the scripture promises (3 Ne. 18). Long story short, they all have their baptismal date for this upcoming Sunday the 26th. What a miracle all of this was.
Hna. Isabel is such a sweet older lady. I really love her, and all older women. :) She was kind enough to knit me a really nice and thick scarf! It was a gift she gave me. That was really special.
However Sergio, the Jew, frankly told us that he believes all we're teaching him is true, but because of the traditions of his fathers he would "definitely not take a baptism in our church". We're planning to visit him one last time this week, but unfortunately for him, his ancestors, and his future generations, may not be willing to progress and truly accept the restored gospel.
I pray that Marlo and all of his family can deal with the situation in the best way. Every time I hear something like that, at least on my mission, my testimony is reinforced of the Plan of Salvation. It's not easy losing a loved one, but through Christ and his atonement all of our pain can be taken off of our backs. What a merciful plan it really is!
I'm happy to hear about Jessica's jobs! That's, I'm sure, a very nice blessing. I know Jamie loved it there at UCCU Stadium Branch, and I'm sure Jessica will too.
Thanks for all you do, I hope you all continue to do well and have a great week!
Elder Jordan Keele
A couple months ago Elder De Hoyos in a Zone Conference suggested that when we're teaching a family that we ask them to think of someone they can invite for the next lesson. Well, Jorge (50ish) [Jorge is the man we taught Amos 8 to...], his wife Rosa María (45ish) and their daughter Catia (11) did just that. For our second visit not only were they all there, but Rosa María had invited her sister María Elena and her three kids: Jacqueline, Andrés, and Angela. They're such a faithful and obedient family! They truly are a miracle. Hno. Jorge says he's been searching all his life for the true church, but that every time he had left a different church he said that emptiness was always there. He could never feel satisfied. Well in their first visit to our church he said he felt "full", just as the scripture promises (3 Ne. 18). Long story short, they all have their baptismal date for this upcoming Sunday the 26th. What a miracle all of this was.
Hna. Isabel is such a sweet older lady. I really love her, and all older women. :) She was kind enough to knit me a really nice and thick scarf! It was a gift she gave me. That was really special.
However Sergio, the Jew, frankly told us that he believes all we're teaching him is true, but because of the traditions of his fathers he would "definitely not take a baptism in our church". We're planning to visit him one last time this week, but unfortunately for him, his ancestors, and his future generations, may not be willing to progress and truly accept the restored gospel.
I pray that Marlo and all of his family can deal with the situation in the best way. Every time I hear something like that, at least on my mission, my testimony is reinforced of the Plan of Salvation. It's not easy losing a loved one, but through Christ and his atonement all of our pain can be taken off of our backs. What a merciful plan it really is!
I'm happy to hear about Jessica's jobs! That's, I'm sure, a very nice blessing. I know Jamie loved it there at UCCU Stadium Branch, and I'm sure Jessica will too.
Thanks for all you do, I hope you all continue to do well and have a great week!
Elder Jordan Keele
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, Feb. 13, 2012
Happy Love-day tomorrow!
Ah, what a nice peaceful week :) However, the rat story's still not over... Oddly enough, last Tuesday that landlord asked if we had seen a little oven in our apartment. We told him we had, (it was the one the rat was hiding in, but we didn't tell him that). Apparently he had lent it to some missionaries a number of months ago and he had never given it back. So they finally asked for it, but we had to clean it first ha ha. Don't worry, there's no more blood or hair in there anymore :)
Ok, that's enough grossing people out :) We've had a progressive week. We knocked on a man's door on Friday and he immediately invited us in... he had been waiting for us. He's been from religion to religion but continues to feel "empty" and "hungry". We helped him apply Amos 8:11-12 to himself and we testified that he finally found what he's been looking for. He came to church with his wife and 12 year-old daughter, and they're planning to be baptized on the 26th. It's been a good week.
NOOO!!! Jess, you do need to slow down! ha ha I want you to be single when I get back! ha ha, Well, at least not married anyway. You just do what you know is right. I'm sure Steph and Tam are excited to watch the EJ's daugther.
I'm sure the new counselor will do a great job. Here in the mission I've learned that sometimes the Lord calls us as leaders because we simply lack those skills, and that's the only way to develop them. Other times He calls us because we have the experience and can bless the lives of many. And other times it's a combination of the two. We just need to be willing to accept whatever calling or assignment God wants us to fulfill. He knows why He does it, we just have to trust him.
I'm so surprised at how fast Derek's time went in the MTC! He's already going to meet his trainer! Oh how exciting!
I'm glad to hear Derek is doing well. He's in for what could be a rough few weeks, especially because of the Spanish. But I know he'll catch on quickly because of his previous experience. He's going to bless so many people! What a stud he is.
If you talk to him again let him know how proud of him I am, and that there's nowhere I personally would rather him be, let alone our Father in Heaven.
I know I say "thanks" and that "I love you" every week, but I really mean it. I think it's also been a blessing to be gone for so long and learn to appreciate all that is and has been done for me, especially by my Christlike parents.
Elder Jordan Keele
Ah, what a nice peaceful week :) However, the rat story's still not over... Oddly enough, last Tuesday that landlord asked if we had seen a little oven in our apartment. We told him we had, (it was the one the rat was hiding in, but we didn't tell him that). Apparently he had lent it to some missionaries a number of months ago and he had never given it back. So they finally asked for it, but we had to clean it first ha ha. Don't worry, there's no more blood or hair in there anymore :)
Ok, that's enough grossing people out :) We've had a progressive week. We knocked on a man's door on Friday and he immediately invited us in... he had been waiting for us. He's been from religion to religion but continues to feel "empty" and "hungry". We helped him apply Amos 8:11-12 to himself and we testified that he finally found what he's been looking for. He came to church with his wife and 12 year-old daughter, and they're planning to be baptized on the 26th. It's been a good week.
NOOO!!! Jess, you do need to slow down! ha ha I want you to be single when I get back! ha ha, Well, at least not married anyway. You just do what you know is right. I'm sure Steph and Tam are excited to watch the EJ's daugther.
I'm sure the new counselor will do a great job. Here in the mission I've learned that sometimes the Lord calls us as leaders because we simply lack those skills, and that's the only way to develop them. Other times He calls us because we have the experience and can bless the lives of many. And other times it's a combination of the two. We just need to be willing to accept whatever calling or assignment God wants us to fulfill. He knows why He does it, we just have to trust him.
I'm so surprised at how fast Derek's time went in the MTC! He's already going to meet his trainer! Oh how exciting!
I'm glad to hear Derek is doing well. He's in for what could be a rough few weeks, especially because of the Spanish. But I know he'll catch on quickly because of his previous experience. He's going to bless so many people! What a stud he is.
If you talk to him again let him know how proud of him I am, and that there's nowhere I personally would rather him be, let alone our Father in Heaven.
I know I say "thanks" and that "I love you" every week, but I really mean it. I think it's also been a blessing to be gone for so long and learn to appreciate all that is and has been done for me, especially by my Christlike parents.
Elder Jordan Keele
Friday, February 10, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, Feb. 6, 2012
Buenas Tardes,
Oh boy, what an interesting week. I think the last couple weeks I've only shared spiritual experiences, so I'm feeling like today I should share an exciting story. You may not believe any of it, but it is all true... trust me. I even have pictures to prove it.
Wednesday morning, about 4:00 AM I woke up to a thud on the left side of my body, on my bed. I thought in my mid-awakeness what it could've been, and was satisfied in thinking it was just my blanket, although I clearly knew it must have been something else. Either way, I ignored it and quickly fell back asleep. 4:32 AM I woke up again. This time because I got whacked in the head by something the size of a pen. Immediately I woke up, and to my absolute horror I see the back end of a giant, dirty, fat, Mexican rat right beside my pillow in front of my face. I jumped up at once, somehow managed to get my slippers on and took a giant leap to the light switch, the entire time totally freaked out. My companion wakes up thinking I had a nightmare or something and tries to calm me down. I told him it was a rat, but he wouldn't believe me. Long story short, I found him hiding under my bed. So I went and got my camera so I could prove it.
We scared him back into the tube hole where he had come out, then put a broom stick over it and all was good. Went back to sleep a little bit nervous. 5:30 AM we wake up again hearing something in the window above my companions bed. Again, it was the dang rat! Nasty little thing. He had chewed off the broom handle! I'll show you a picture of that too. So we were too scared to go back to bed.
I told you I was going to make this short... We talked to the landlord and he sealed up the hole. We get home at night, and because of a meeting some missionaries had on Thursday morning, a couple others came to sleep at our house. At 10:20, right before we were about to cover up on the floor, we hear some noises coming from the kitchen. We looked and looked and couldn't see any sign of the rat (other than some nice little droppings he gave to us... what a thoughtful critter). Finally, I turn around a little oven thing the size of a microwave and I see the dang thing hiding in there! We planned to just scare it and we made a nice pathway for him to run straight out the door. Well, the stubborn pest didn't like that idea, and we couldn't scare him out of the little place. We had no other choice but to terminate him. Elder Solheim grabbed a broom stick, and using the handle finally managed to choke him in the neck against the metal wall of the oven. Meanwhile I sought my revenge! Muah ha ha. (Tell me if this is cruel or not...). I grabbed the other broom stick that the very rat had chewed off. He made a nice little point on the end there. While Elder Solheim had him trapped back there, I stabbed him right in the head! (I told you you wouldn't believe this).
Anyways, the rat died after squealing a bit, (which was surprisingly loud), and we now have a rat-free home! El fin.
Other than that it's been a pretty progressive week :)
My new companion, E. Terry is from Peru, I asked him about his last name but I forgot what he said :) ha ha but he really is from Peru, right by Lima. My old companion (E. Rubalcava) got changed to be companions with another elder whose previous companion went home due to surgery.
Oh, I don't know of anything specific that I would like in a package except for a Hot Fudge Brownie Sundae from Coney's, but I don't know if ithat's worth shipping :) I'll let you know next week if I think of anything.
You're meeting with Sis. Dalton sounds like a great experience. What a blessing it is to be so close to so many great and virtuous women.
Thanks for all you do and for all your support. I got the big Christmas letter from the Keele family the other day, so please send my best to all of them! I love you all. Have another great week!
Elder Jordan Keele
Oh boy, what an interesting week. I think the last couple weeks I've only shared spiritual experiences, so I'm feeling like today I should share an exciting story. You may not believe any of it, but it is all true... trust me. I even have pictures to prove it.
Wednesday morning, about 4:00 AM I woke up to a thud on the left side of my body, on my bed. I thought in my mid-awakeness what it could've been, and was satisfied in thinking it was just my blanket, although I clearly knew it must have been something else. Either way, I ignored it and quickly fell back asleep. 4:32 AM I woke up again. This time because I got whacked in the head by something the size of a pen. Immediately I woke up, and to my absolute horror I see the back end of a giant, dirty, fat, Mexican rat right beside my pillow in front of my face. I jumped up at once, somehow managed to get my slippers on and took a giant leap to the light switch, the entire time totally freaked out. My companion wakes up thinking I had a nightmare or something and tries to calm me down. I told him it was a rat, but he wouldn't believe me. Long story short, I found him hiding under my bed. So I went and got my camera so I could prove it.
We scared him back into the tube hole where he had come out, then put a broom stick over it and all was good. Went back to sleep a little bit nervous. 5:30 AM we wake up again hearing something in the window above my companions bed. Again, it was the dang rat! Nasty little thing. He had chewed off the broom handle! I'll show you a picture of that too. So we were too scared to go back to bed.
I told you I was going to make this short... We talked to the landlord and he sealed up the hole. We get home at night, and because of a meeting some missionaries had on Thursday morning, a couple others came to sleep at our house. At 10:20, right before we were about to cover up on the floor, we hear some noises coming from the kitchen. We looked and looked and couldn't see any sign of the rat (other than some nice little droppings he gave to us... what a thoughtful critter). Finally, I turn around a little oven thing the size of a microwave and I see the dang thing hiding in there! We planned to just scare it and we made a nice pathway for him to run straight out the door. Well, the stubborn pest didn't like that idea, and we couldn't scare him out of the little place. We had no other choice but to terminate him. Elder Solheim grabbed a broom stick, and using the handle finally managed to choke him in the neck against the metal wall of the oven. Meanwhile I sought my revenge! Muah ha ha. (Tell me if this is cruel or not...). I grabbed the other broom stick that the very rat had chewed off. He made a nice little point on the end there. While Elder Solheim had him trapped back there, I stabbed him right in the head! (I told you you wouldn't believe this).
Anyways, the rat died after squealing a bit, (which was surprisingly loud), and we now have a rat-free home! El fin.
Other than that it's been a pretty progressive week :)
My new companion, E. Terry is from Peru, I asked him about his last name but I forgot what he said :) ha ha but he really is from Peru, right by Lima. My old companion (E. Rubalcava) got changed to be companions with another elder whose previous companion went home due to surgery.
Oh, I don't know of anything specific that I would like in a package except for a Hot Fudge Brownie Sundae from Coney's, but I don't know if ithat's worth shipping :) I'll let you know next week if I think of anything.
You're meeting with Sis. Dalton sounds like a great experience. What a blessing it is to be so close to so many great and virtuous women.
Thanks for all you do and for all your support. I got the big Christmas letter from the Keele family the other day, so please send my best to all of them! I love you all. Have another great week!
Elder Jordan Keele
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, Jan. 30, 2011
Better late than never... long story. But the good thing is I'm here now :)
What a crazy week. Lots of amazing things happened. Long story short though: Isabel is an 85 year old widow that lives alone. We contacted her in the street three weeks ago, and we've been teaching her ever since. She's the only member in her family, except for a nephew who pertains to another ward. She's always mentioned about her nephew, Felipe, and every time we'd talked about baptism she said she wanted to talk to him first. Finally on Tuesday we went to his dentist office which is in our area. I was a bit nervous because I thought "What if he's inactive and tells her not to get baptized?" etc. Turns out he's a member of the High Council of a neighboring stake! He encouraged her baptism, and well, it happened yesterday!
Isabel is so special to me. She's such a sweet older lady. She's humorous and very intelligent. She understands everything we tell her. At her baptism I was thinking about what a special opportunity it is for her to be baptized near the end of her life :) She's clean of all her previous sins, and I don't think she'll do anything to keep her from exaltation here in the next few years. That was a neat experience.
Wednesday night I was called by the Assistants that my companion and I would have special changes. Friday morning Elder Terry arrived from Peru. He's 23 years old and knows a lot of doctrine of the church. I think because I'm closest to the temple maybe Pres. Hicken put me as his trainer. But whatever the reason, I know it to be God's will. "His ways are higher than mine", and I'm grateful for that. I've learned a lot from Elder Terry in just the past couple days. He's great.
We played basketball today on a wood floor! We offered service last week at the local "Deportivo Galeana", and the man was nice enough to lend us the court, as well as an enclosed field with artificial grass. We had a zone activity there, followed by zone tacos at the church.
It makes me excited hearing about my siblings and their basketball activities. I can't wait to see them live!
Linda had written me a couple weeks ago mentioning the death of Jeremy. I'm glad to hear that Nathan is trying to be a tool in the Lord's hands to help others. Nathan, I know I've talked over many things with Mom and Dad that I may have thought they had never experienced before, but they had. Besides, they too have the ability to listen to the Spirit to help you as their child. Be sure to talk openly with Mom and Dad so between the three of you you can make the best decisions in those situations.
Lately, it's been a bit chilly in the evenings, but usually it's pretty hot during the days. However, the nights should start to warm up as well in February. It definitely doesn't get as cold here in the DF as it did in Molango. From my perspective, my coat is holding up great! I think that's a mighty fine idea to let future Elder Nathan take it on his mission.
I'm sure your two favorite missionaries will enjoy receiving letters from the family. But, just don't forget about me! ha ha
Thank you much and love you much,
Elder Jordan Keele
What a crazy week. Lots of amazing things happened. Long story short though: Isabel is an 85 year old widow that lives alone. We contacted her in the street three weeks ago, and we've been teaching her ever since. She's the only member in her family, except for a nephew who pertains to another ward. She's always mentioned about her nephew, Felipe, and every time we'd talked about baptism she said she wanted to talk to him first. Finally on Tuesday we went to his dentist office which is in our area. I was a bit nervous because I thought "What if he's inactive and tells her not to get baptized?" etc. Turns out he's a member of the High Council of a neighboring stake! He encouraged her baptism, and well, it happened yesterday!
Isabel is so special to me. She's such a sweet older lady. She's humorous and very intelligent. She understands everything we tell her. At her baptism I was thinking about what a special opportunity it is for her to be baptized near the end of her life :) She's clean of all her previous sins, and I don't think she'll do anything to keep her from exaltation here in the next few years. That was a neat experience.
Wednesday night I was called by the Assistants that my companion and I would have special changes. Friday morning Elder Terry arrived from Peru. He's 23 years old and knows a lot of doctrine of the church. I think because I'm closest to the temple maybe Pres. Hicken put me as his trainer. But whatever the reason, I know it to be God's will. "His ways are higher than mine", and I'm grateful for that. I've learned a lot from Elder Terry in just the past couple days. He's great.
We played basketball today on a wood floor! We offered service last week at the local "Deportivo Galeana", and the man was nice enough to lend us the court, as well as an enclosed field with artificial grass. We had a zone activity there, followed by zone tacos at the church.
It makes me excited hearing about my siblings and their basketball activities. I can't wait to see them live!
Linda had written me a couple weeks ago mentioning the death of Jeremy. I'm glad to hear that Nathan is trying to be a tool in the Lord's hands to help others. Nathan, I know I've talked over many things with Mom and Dad that I may have thought they had never experienced before, but they had. Besides, they too have the ability to listen to the Spirit to help you as their child. Be sure to talk openly with Mom and Dad so between the three of you you can make the best decisions in those situations.
Lately, it's been a bit chilly in the evenings, but usually it's pretty hot during the days. However, the nights should start to warm up as well in February. It definitely doesn't get as cold here in the DF as it did in Molango. From my perspective, my coat is holding up great! I think that's a mighty fine idea to let future Elder Nathan take it on his mission.
I'm sure your two favorite missionaries will enjoy receiving letters from the family. But, just don't forget about me! ha ha
Thank you much and love you much,
Elder Jordan Keele
Friday, January 27, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele, Jan. 23, 2011
To whom it may concern,
This past week has been a powerful one. We've had the blessing of teaching a lot of different people. Unfortunately, not many went to church. But we're pleased with the ones who did.
We were able to help 10 year old David get baptized yesterday. His mother has been a member all of her life, but inactivated for a while, and married a non-member. They've recently started going to church, (well about a year and a half ago), and the father was finally baptized just a couple months ago. However, the father, Israel, didn't believe his son was capable of making such a commitment as baptism because it took Israel "42 years" to make that decision. We read in DyC 68 about how it's his responsibility as a father to teach that doctrine to his son "at the age of 8 years". He had never thought of it that way :) It was truly a miracle because from what I've been told by the bishop, the EQP, and other members, (including my companion) that other missionaries have already tried to convince him with no success. Well, I'm here to testify that I didn't do anything. Ha ha, but God still can work miracles for those who (1) have faith, and (2) are obedient. I learned some good lessons from this experience.
I'm so sorry that Derek and Jessica aren't able to meet. But as Derek mentioned, if the decision came from God, it's for the best.
I had no idea that Nezahualcoyotl meant Coyote who Fasts. Thanks for looking that up... lots of interesting things to be learned.
Ha ha mom, you've still got 7 more marriages to go through! I guess we'll see what happens in April...
Nobody in the ward plays the piano, so I get to do the honor :)
There are a lot of sweet older ladies in our home ward. I'll always remember them sitting all together there in the back right corner in the last few rows. I look forward to seeing all of them again sometime!
I have no idea what the museum is, but we'll have to check it out. A lot of museums and stuff are closed on Mondays, so that's a bit unfortunate for us. But I'll try and look into that museum and maybe I can go sometime. I still have to go to the one in front of the temple too!
Thank you for your thoughts and wishes, and I wish you all success this week as well!
Con mucho amor y cariño,
Elder Jordan Keele
This past week has been a powerful one. We've had the blessing of teaching a lot of different people. Unfortunately, not many went to church. But we're pleased with the ones who did.
We were able to help 10 year old David get baptized yesterday. His mother has been a member all of her life, but inactivated for a while, and married a non-member. They've recently started going to church, (well about a year and a half ago), and the father was finally baptized just a couple months ago. However, the father, Israel, didn't believe his son was capable of making such a commitment as baptism because it took Israel "42 years" to make that decision. We read in DyC 68 about how it's his responsibility as a father to teach that doctrine to his son "at the age of 8 years". He had never thought of it that way :) It was truly a miracle because from what I've been told by the bishop, the EQP, and other members, (including my companion) that other missionaries have already tried to convince him with no success. Well, I'm here to testify that I didn't do anything. Ha ha, but God still can work miracles for those who (1) have faith, and (2) are obedient. I learned some good lessons from this experience.
I'm so sorry that Derek and Jessica aren't able to meet. But as Derek mentioned, if the decision came from God, it's for the best.
I had no idea that Nezahualcoyotl meant Coyote who Fasts. Thanks for looking that up... lots of interesting things to be learned.
Ha ha mom, you've still got 7 more marriages to go through! I guess we'll see what happens in April...
Nobody in the ward plays the piano, so I get to do the honor :)
There are a lot of sweet older ladies in our home ward. I'll always remember them sitting all together there in the back right corner in the last few rows. I look forward to seeing all of them again sometime!
I have no idea what the museum is, but we'll have to check it out. A lot of museums and stuff are closed on Mondays, so that's a bit unfortunate for us. But I'll try and look into that museum and maybe I can go sometime. I still have to go to the one in front of the temple too!
Thank you for your thoughts and wishes, and I wish you all success this week as well!
Con mucho amor y cariño,
Elder Jordan Keele
Monday, January 16, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele-Jan. 16, 2011
Mis Seres Queridos,
It's been a pretty productive week. I'm learning so much in this area, and I love learning every day. I'm almost halfway through Jesus the Christ, but this time I'm reading all the scripture references, and I'm learning so much more! I've been gaining such a greater love for my Savior, and I continually try to put into practice His attributes more in my life. It truly makes a difference in how I feel every day.
We took Alberto and Sugey to be married legally on Tuesday morning, followed by some delicious Pozole at their house, and then later in the evening was the nice little baptismal service. It was a blessing to effect the ordinance.
I'm so happy to hear about Jessica. I can't wait to see her. She's always been such a huge influence and part of my life. I've loved that we had spent so much time together doing so many of the same things before our missions. Then, what a humongous tender mercy that we were able to be in the MTC together and serve our missions together. Ha ha, I better not write any more about that or else I'll start to cry here in the internet shop ha ha. Jessica, you've already made me look like a fool too many times in the internet shop ha ha! You can ask her about that :)
Jessica, I hope that the Lord guides you by the hand, day by day, so that this transition can be a smooth one for you. Plus, I'm going to need your help too in a few months so it won't be so hard on me!
I've seen the little Mexican Mormon history museum many times, but have never taken the time to go there. I had no idea it was done by a member. Now that I know, I'll be sure to go there that we're so close by. Just this morning we went to play basketball right next to the temple with some other missionaries, including the assistants. It was awesome.
I hope you enjoy the Family Home Evening tonight. How special that Jessica will be there and be able to share experiences that she'd just had a week ago! I hope the spirit guides all who are in attendance to make the necessary adjustments to find more peace and joy in their lives.
I love you all, (as I always say because its true!), and I hope you have a great week!
Elder Jordan Keele
It's been a pretty productive week. I'm learning so much in this area, and I love learning every day. I'm almost halfway through Jesus the Christ, but this time I'm reading all the scripture references, and I'm learning so much more! I've been gaining such a greater love for my Savior, and I continually try to put into practice His attributes more in my life. It truly makes a difference in how I feel every day.
We took Alberto and Sugey to be married legally on Tuesday morning, followed by some delicious Pozole at their house, and then later in the evening was the nice little baptismal service. It was a blessing to effect the ordinance.
I'm so happy to hear about Jessica. I can't wait to see her. She's always been such a huge influence and part of my life. I've loved that we had spent so much time together doing so many of the same things before our missions. Then, what a humongous tender mercy that we were able to be in the MTC together and serve our missions together. Ha ha, I better not write any more about that or else I'll start to cry here in the internet shop ha ha. Jessica, you've already made me look like a fool too many times in the internet shop ha ha! You can ask her about that :)
Jessica, I hope that the Lord guides you by the hand, day by day, so that this transition can be a smooth one for you. Plus, I'm going to need your help too in a few months so it won't be so hard on me!
I've seen the little Mexican Mormon history museum many times, but have never taken the time to go there. I had no idea it was done by a member. Now that I know, I'll be sure to go there that we're so close by. Just this morning we went to play basketball right next to the temple with some other missionaries, including the assistants. It was awesome.
I hope you enjoy the Family Home Evening tonight. How special that Jessica will be there and be able to share experiences that she'd just had a week ago! I hope the spirit guides all who are in attendance to make the necessary adjustments to find more peace and joy in their lives.
I love you all, (as I always say because its true!), and I hope you have a great week!
Elder Jordan Keele
Elder Jordan Keele- Jan. 9, 2011
Dear Mom,
We've had a great week here in Mexico City. I love the opportunity to talk to so many people everyday... literally hundreds. We've had some good success here, even though there wasn't much to start with when I got to this area. I have the opportunity to baptize a brother named Alberto tomorrow. He's the husband of a member, and he's finally taking the steps to be a member. Funny thing is, two of my really good friends from my generation (missionaries who enter the mission at the same time) have both been in this same area. Elder Hopkins (who I lived with in Colorado) and Elder Falslev (from my MTC district. He was E. Castillo's companion in the MTC). They both had tried to work with him and both commented things on his Teaching Registry or whatever they're called, and that was 1 year and also 6 months ago that they worked with him. It's a blessing to be helping him at this time.
Also, we had worked hard all week and didn't get a lot of people to commit to coming to church. However, we weren't discouraged but had faith instead. We trusted the Lord would prepare some one for us. Well, He followed through (as He always does), and Isabel (about 70 years old) showed up on her own to church! We had taught her earlier in the week and invited her to be baptized, but she had declined. We left her only with an invitation to come to church. We didn't think much of it because we invite every one we see to church and everyone says the same thing: "If I have time, I'll be there".... no one ever does. But Isabel did, so that was a nice surprise.
Sad thing about the sisters is that the Visitors Center closed yesterday for remodeling and won't open again until December. Most of the sister missionaries in our mission were working there, however there were a few that worked in Pachuca, Tulancingo and Tecamac where it's not quite as dangerous. The sisters are no longer in my district. It was good though to teach them once though :) They're great.
Also, I'm actually in Barrio Pradera. In my district there are some missionaries in that ward. But it's right next to my area. We go to the same church, and I've met quite a few members from there including Andrés Gumeta. But we take one 5 minute micro to go to the temple, so we're really close by. The other Elders did finally move in to a new apartment, but it wasn't the one we were planning on. They moved on Wednesday. The owner of the house they were going to move in to wasn't very... I don't know what word to use. But he wasn't really easy to work with. So they found a new place and one day later they moved in.
I saw Andrés ayer... He's not married yet, and he lives with his parents. But he seems to be doing well in other areas... he just bought the new iPhone and showed it to us ha ha. It's super super expensive here. But I'll tell him next time I see him about Trev.
It's nice to hear of your real missionary teaching experience! Ha ha what a great opportunity for you.
Oh yeah! Today, Pres. Hicken gave me and another companionship permission to go to the Estadio Azteca- 3rd largest sports stadium in the world! In the parking lot there they had a Nativity, the largest in the world. We went and took some good pictures, and it was really fun. Afterwards, we went to ask if we could get a tour of the stadium, and they let us in for free! We went down to the grass, into the locker rooms, and saw a bunch of cool things. In our little tour group was a couple from Santa Fe Argentina! I started talking to them and told them a bit about how my parents served in Rosario (I wasnt sure if you actually served in Santa Fe, although I think you may have). The lady wasn't too interested in the whole missionary thing, but after telling her that I went there too she got a little more excited. That would've been cool for me to have passed Jessica the reference to go visit them clear from here! ha ha
Way to go Dallin! Ha ha that makes me really happy to hear about that! I can't wait to see you play!
Next time you see Tommy tell him I'm happy for him :) my buddy ha ha
Jessica, good luck on the real life this week! Good luck on your talk as well. If you write it on a computer, I'd like a copy please :)
I love Derek's photos. I'm so proud of everyone back home! Have a fantastic week!
Love,
Elder Jordan Keele
P.S. Mom if you haven't already, could you take a picture of all the 6th ward missionaries' plaques outside the bishop's office before Jessica's gets taken off? Thanks!
We've had a great week here in Mexico City. I love the opportunity to talk to so many people everyday... literally hundreds. We've had some good success here, even though there wasn't much to start with when I got to this area. I have the opportunity to baptize a brother named Alberto tomorrow. He's the husband of a member, and he's finally taking the steps to be a member. Funny thing is, two of my really good friends from my generation (missionaries who enter the mission at the same time) have both been in this same area. Elder Hopkins (who I lived with in Colorado) and Elder Falslev (from my MTC district. He was E. Castillo's companion in the MTC). They both had tried to work with him and both commented things on his Teaching Registry or whatever they're called, and that was 1 year and also 6 months ago that they worked with him. It's a blessing to be helping him at this time.
Also, we had worked hard all week and didn't get a lot of people to commit to coming to church. However, we weren't discouraged but had faith instead. We trusted the Lord would prepare some one for us. Well, He followed through (as He always does), and Isabel (about 70 years old) showed up on her own to church! We had taught her earlier in the week and invited her to be baptized, but she had declined. We left her only with an invitation to come to church. We didn't think much of it because we invite every one we see to church and everyone says the same thing: "If I have time, I'll be there".... no one ever does. But Isabel did, so that was a nice surprise.
Sad thing about the sisters is that the Visitors Center closed yesterday for remodeling and won't open again until December. Most of the sister missionaries in our mission were working there, however there were a few that worked in Pachuca, Tulancingo and Tecamac where it's not quite as dangerous. The sisters are no longer in my district. It was good though to teach them once though :) They're great.
Also, I'm actually in Barrio Pradera. In my district there are some missionaries in that ward. But it's right next to my area. We go to the same church, and I've met quite a few members from there including Andrés Gumeta. But we take one 5 minute micro to go to the temple, so we're really close by. The other Elders did finally move in to a new apartment, but it wasn't the one we were planning on. They moved on Wednesday. The owner of the house they were going to move in to wasn't very... I don't know what word to use. But he wasn't really easy to work with. So they found a new place and one day later they moved in.
I saw Andrés ayer... He's not married yet, and he lives with his parents. But he seems to be doing well in other areas... he just bought the new iPhone and showed it to us ha ha. It's super super expensive here. But I'll tell him next time I see him about Trev.
It's nice to hear of your real missionary teaching experience! Ha ha what a great opportunity for you.
Oh yeah! Today, Pres. Hicken gave me and another companionship permission to go to the Estadio Azteca- 3rd largest sports stadium in the world! In the parking lot there they had a Nativity, the largest in the world. We went and took some good pictures, and it was really fun. Afterwards, we went to ask if we could get a tour of the stadium, and they let us in for free! We went down to the grass, into the locker rooms, and saw a bunch of cool things. In our little tour group was a couple from Santa Fe Argentina! I started talking to them and told them a bit about how my parents served in Rosario (I wasnt sure if you actually served in Santa Fe, although I think you may have). The lady wasn't too interested in the whole missionary thing, but after telling her that I went there too she got a little more excited. That would've been cool for me to have passed Jessica the reference to go visit them clear from here! ha ha
Way to go Dallin! Ha ha that makes me really happy to hear about that! I can't wait to see you play!
Next time you see Tommy tell him I'm happy for him :) my buddy ha ha
Jessica, good luck on the real life this week! Good luck on your talk as well. If you write it on a computer, I'd like a copy please :)
I love Derek's photos. I'm so proud of everyone back home! Have a fantastic week!
Love,
Elder Jordan Keele
P.S. Mom if you haven't already, could you take a picture of all the 6th ward missionaries' plaques outside the bishop's office before Jessica's gets taken off? Thanks!
Monday, January 2, 2012
Elder Jordan Keele- Jan. 2, 2012
Buenas Tardes,
Oh boy, where do I start today? My new companion is Elder Rubalcava from Cd. Juárez, Chihuaha. My new ward is called Pradera in the Vergel Stake. My apartment is in the Edo. de Mexico in the city Nezahualcoyotl, although more than half of my area is Distrito Federal limits. This place is HUGE! There are soooo many people here. I was switched in one day from a tiny town with a population of 3,000 people to one of the biggest cities in the world of 25 MILLION people. It's a little different ha ha. For example, three days ago my companion and I were street contacting and for literally 2 hours we stayed within 2 blocks, literally. Maybe 300 feet worth. We just kept going back and forth because there were soooo many people going in and out of a tiangis. (Giant garage sale-ish things that they put in the middle of the streets. Those things are nuts). Anyways, I love it here.
When I arrived, the apartment was a pig sty. Because it was a Tuesday, and we really should only spend time cleaning on P-days, we did a bit of sweeping and had to suffer through the rest for this past week. This area used to have two wards for the missionaries, but they just opened one of the other wards so we're only in charge of one now. The two new missionaries that came to open the new area (which is called Barrio Jordan, super cool name for a ward!), didn't have a house. We've been searching for one all week long, and finally found one on Thursday. However, the house owner was being a real pain (to use simple terms), and the other missionaries still haven't moved in yet. We're hoping tomorrow. So in the meantime they've slept with us, even though there's not much room. Looong story short, the mission brought all their stuff for the new apartment, and we have no choice but to store it in our apartment. So, it started as a pig sty, and now it's even worse ha ha. But at least I cleaned the bathroom today. :)
The ward mission leader for the barrio Jordan was a missionary in Veracruz. I asked if he knew Trevor Stevens and he said yes. He said Elder Stevens was a fantastic missionary. His name was Elder Gumeta. Maybe if you see him this week you can ask if he remembers him.
Aunt Louene's package got here last Tuesday. It was a 12 days to Christmas one, but it works out that it's a 12 days to "Dia de los Reyes Magos" on the 6th of January. So I've been opening one gift a day. It was such a thoughtful gift, and please thank her a lot for it. I love it!
Have a wonderful week. I hope all goes well with everything and that everyone continues to do better and better.
Elder Jordan Keele
Oh boy, where do I start today? My new companion is Elder Rubalcava from Cd. Juárez, Chihuaha. My new ward is called Pradera in the Vergel Stake. My apartment is in the Edo. de Mexico in the city Nezahualcoyotl, although more than half of my area is Distrito Federal limits. This place is HUGE! There are soooo many people here. I was switched in one day from a tiny town with a population of 3,000 people to one of the biggest cities in the world of 25 MILLION people. It's a little different ha ha. For example, three days ago my companion and I were street contacting and for literally 2 hours we stayed within 2 blocks, literally. Maybe 300 feet worth. We just kept going back and forth because there were soooo many people going in and out of a tiangis. (Giant garage sale-ish things that they put in the middle of the streets. Those things are nuts). Anyways, I love it here.
When I arrived, the apartment was a pig sty. Because it was a Tuesday, and we really should only spend time cleaning on P-days, we did a bit of sweeping and had to suffer through the rest for this past week. This area used to have two wards for the missionaries, but they just opened one of the other wards so we're only in charge of one now. The two new missionaries that came to open the new area (which is called Barrio Jordan, super cool name for a ward!), didn't have a house. We've been searching for one all week long, and finally found one on Thursday. However, the house owner was being a real pain (to use simple terms), and the other missionaries still haven't moved in yet. We're hoping tomorrow. So in the meantime they've slept with us, even though there's not much room. Looong story short, the mission brought all their stuff for the new apartment, and we have no choice but to store it in our apartment. So, it started as a pig sty, and now it's even worse ha ha. But at least I cleaned the bathroom today. :)
The ward mission leader for the barrio Jordan was a missionary in Veracruz. I asked if he knew Trevor Stevens and he said yes. He said Elder Stevens was a fantastic missionary. His name was Elder Gumeta. Maybe if you see him this week you can ask if he remembers him.
Aunt Louene's package got here last Tuesday. It was a 12 days to Christmas one, but it works out that it's a 12 days to "Dia de los Reyes Magos" on the 6th of January. So I've been opening one gift a day. It was such a thoughtful gift, and please thank her a lot for it. I love it!
Have a wonderful week. I hope all goes well with everything and that everyone continues to do better and better.
Elder Jordan Keele
Hna. Jessica Keele- Jan. 2, 2012
Hola Familia!!
OH MY GOODNESS!!!!!!!!!
Okay, just so you know, I´ll see you next week!!! I can´t believe it... But no worries, I am happy to see you!! And yes, it helps to know that I am coming back to Argentina this year! :) I´ve been telling EVERYONE, because it makes it a lot easier to say good bye since it´s just a "see you soon!" rather than a "goodbye for ever" :) Estoy muy feliz sobre ese asunto. haha
Today we got to meet up with our zone at a park because we crushed our goal and made a new mission record. So President and Sister Gsulbrandsen came and brought us all McDonalds and then reeses for dessert! :) Yum! it was pretty fun!
Saturday night we had dinner with a member (who is actually from Canada) and his wife and CUTE little girls! It was our first time eating with them and Hna Smith and I are very sad about that because they are an amazing family! He knows tonz of stuff about the gospel and just blew our minds with all his knowledge! One of his little girls was nervous to talk with us because she thought we were only going to talk in English and she said she didn´t know very much. It was sooo cute becasue when we first walked in and started talking with her, she just looked nervous and then about 3 minutes into the conversation she said "Oh, I just realized that you´re speaking Spanish! Mom they´re speaking Spanish!!" She´s 4 years old and soo cute! The 2 year old just kept making angry faces at us and the mom was fun to talk with because she just wanted us to talk in English to see how much she remembered. They told us their whole story about how they met. They met here in Caballito and then she lived in Canada for a year and a half. Anyway, they said they would invite us over again before I leave so I´ll take a picture and then I´ll just have to keep in contact with them! They´re soo cute!! :)
Well, I don´t really know what else to say except that MISSIONS ARE AMAZING!! :D I think everybody should go on one. They are happy and sad, life changing/life saving, and they go by sooo fast!!! But I´m grateful for the time I have had and have left! :)
I love you all sooo very much!!!
AND I´m stoked to go to cafe Rio! (to see all of you as well) hahah
Love ya,
Jess
OH MY GOODNESS!!!!!!!!!
Okay, just so you know, I´ll see you next week!!! I can´t believe it... But no worries, I am happy to see you!! And yes, it helps to know that I am coming back to Argentina this year! :) I´ve been telling EVERYONE, because it makes it a lot easier to say good bye since it´s just a "see you soon!" rather than a "goodbye for ever" :) Estoy muy feliz sobre ese asunto. haha
Today we got to meet up with our zone at a park because we crushed our goal and made a new mission record. So President and Sister Gsulbrandsen came and brought us all McDonalds and then reeses for dessert! :) Yum! it was pretty fun!
Saturday night we had dinner with a member (who is actually from Canada) and his wife and CUTE little girls! It was our first time eating with them and Hna Smith and I are very sad about that because they are an amazing family! He knows tonz of stuff about the gospel and just blew our minds with all his knowledge! One of his little girls was nervous to talk with us because she thought we were only going to talk in English and she said she didn´t know very much. It was sooo cute becasue when we first walked in and started talking with her, she just looked nervous and then about 3 minutes into the conversation she said "Oh, I just realized that you´re speaking Spanish! Mom they´re speaking Spanish!!" She´s 4 years old and soo cute! The 2 year old just kept making angry faces at us and the mom was fun to talk with because she just wanted us to talk in English to see how much she remembered. They told us their whole story about how they met. They met here in Caballito and then she lived in Canada for a year and a half. Anyway, they said they would invite us over again before I leave so I´ll take a picture and then I´ll just have to keep in contact with them! They´re soo cute!! :)
Well, I don´t really know what else to say except that MISSIONS ARE AMAZING!! :D I think everybody should go on one. They are happy and sad, life changing/life saving, and they go by sooo fast!!! But I´m grateful for the time I have had and have left! :)
I love you all sooo very much!!!
AND I´m stoked to go to cafe Rio! (to see all of you as well) hahah
Love ya,
Jess
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