I am happy to say that this week has been better than the last. Definitely not perfect. This companionship is a little like a roller coaster, but we're smoothing it out. :) Hermana Bustos is from Chile, a convert, and the only active member of her family. Her mom isn't a member and her younger sisters aren't active. I've met so many missionaries with similar stories, they're seriously incredible, these Latinos! The sacrifices that they make to come on missions are not small. So I have a lot of respect for my companion and all she's been through.
This week has been a good one! We were able to accomplish our goal of 15 lessons with members present, a testament to how great the ward is. They're great! It's so organized and everyone really magnifies their calling. It reminds me of the talk by Elder Uchtdorf when he said, "Lift where you stand." And they give us references and go with us to visit their friends. Seriously, in Somerset, PA we need to pick up the slack! Actopan's got you beat!
This week, we're going to have a MIRACLE BAPTISM!!! Carla in the girlfriend of a member named Fernando, who is actually inactive right now because he works out of town on the weekends. But she 19 years old and has been investigating the church for 4 years, ever since she and Fernando started dating. She has even gone to seminary! She has a very strong testimony and can feel the Spirit testify over and over again to the truth of what we teach. The interesting thing is... we've only taught her 2 times! She has wanted to get baptized and for one reason or another she hasn't been able to. Recently, we inherited her as our investigator and we're pulling the trigger! On Thursday, her baptism is planned! We are so excited. She really is a huge blessing and miracle. I love being a missionary.
We also have Francisco who has stopped smoking and is just a champion! He has a prosthetic leg and has quite the story. Another day with more time I'll have to tell you. :) But for now, I'll just say that he is awesome. And he will be baptized on the 13th of June. He is so excited and always prays that he will be able to be baptized on that day. Let me just tell you, there's nothing like hearing your investigator say something like that in a prayer. I imagine it's somthing like seeing your child take his first steps. Haha. But seriously it's the best. :)
And, in other news, RAUL RECEIVED AN ANSWER!!! Hna. Sosa wrote me and told me that they fasted with him and he has his answer! He is scheduled for baptism on June 6th! Oh my gosh, words cannot express what I feel for Raul. I love that guy with all of my heart. He is going to be an incredible member in the kingdom of God!
Well, that's about it this week! What else... I cleaned the house today. Haha. No, I don't have anything else very exciting. But I just want to tell you I love you with all of my heart! Thank you for your prayers and your love. This scripture strengthens me because I know it's true. Moroni 8:1-3:
1 An epistle of my father Mormon, written to me, Moroni; and it was written unto me soon after my calling to the ministry. And on this wise did he write unto me, saying:
2 My beloved son, Moroni, I rejoice exceedingly that your Lord Jesus Christ hath been mindful of you, and hath called you to his ministry, and to his holy work. 3 I am mindful of you always in my prayers, continually praying unto God the Father in the name of his Holy Child, Jesus, that he, through his infinite goodness and grace, will keep you through the endurance of faith on his name to the end.
Love you so much!
Hna Snyder
An old one from Hauchi... Juan and Valentina loaded me up with presents! Hahaha
Did I happen to tell you that Hna. Z is my STL?! So amazing. I love her so much.
Me and Hermana Bustos :)
This little girl has the same dress as Vannie! I had to take a pic.