EMAIL... Week 48

Hola All!

Great week celebrating Día de Las Madres and Día de Los Niños. In Sacrament Meeting last Sunday, Elder K paid a tribute to all of the mothers, and then had them stand up, and he personally went to each mother in the congregation and gave them a Milky Way bar with a quote on mothers. Chocolate is definitely a universal favorite of mothers around the world! We delivered suckers to most of the kids in the branch for their special day, and took the Mother's Day treats to mothers who weren't there on Sunday. My favorite was to a woman in Condega, whose husband is a member and wants to take his family to the temple. We intentionally went when he wasn't home and Elder K showed the video of Elder Holland's tribute to mothers. She was really touched by the video, and that we went to see HER. I testify that there is more to visiting others than just a check mark that we did it! Many people here have quit coming, because no one visits them. I have felt at times that I was bothering people by visiting them, but I have truly been reassured that it is rarely the case, if at all. Most people appreciate being cared about and thought of.

We had a great Noche de Hermanamiento on Thursday. Elder K showed the video, "For God So Loved the World" and then we discussed Christ's mission here on earth. A dad brought his young daughter, who has been coming to church the last few weeks. He was singing the hymns and listened intently to the video and discussion. Then we had a competitive game of kickball, and they stayed, were on opposite teams, and he liked it all so much that he said he would come to church on Sunday, if he didn't have to work, and for sure they will come next Thursday for our Hermanamiento. 

We have enjoyed a wonderful day of service today...making meals for a family whose mom had surgery, visiting sisters who are struggling, making cupcakes for the Hermanamiento in Condega tonight to celebrate a young man's 12th birthday and receiving the Priesthood, and preparing the chapel for church tomorrow. These are things we all do regularly to build up the kingdom of God on the earth and to help those around us. Never neglect the good ideas, thoughts, or promptings to serve and lift others. Our desires to do good to and for others are heaven sent, and we have covenanted to be the Lord's hands in answering prayers. It is our goal to become more adept at recognizing promptings, and acting quickly upon those messages from heaven. As we do, we feel the love of our Heavenly Father and Savior more abundantly, and a greater love for those around us.

Thanks for all you do! We love you!

Love,

Elder and Hermana Koelliker