EMAIL... Week 64

Hola All!

We've had a wet and busy week, oh, but we're in Nicaragua during the rainy season. Last weekend was District Conference, like Stake Conference but with branches instead of wards so much smaller. The Sunday session was held in one of the Universities' auditorium and there were over 400 people in attendance. We were able to host President and Hermana Poncio, his counselor, the 3 Zone Leaders, and the Bells for Sunday lunch after the session. Always fun to serve American food to Latinos.

Our little 104 year old passed away early Monday morning and we went over mid-morning to see how we could help. They already had his body in the casket in their main room, a big sideless tent outside covering 30-40 chairs, people already coming to pay their respects, and it was drizzling. When we went back that night for the official viewing, it was pouring rain. We are so happy for him to be free from his longtime suffering and the effects of his recent stroke. His wife, Evangelista, was at peace, knowing that since they've been sealed in the temple, they can be together forever. Tuesday we drove for about 50 minutes to the cemetery where he was to be buried. We took Jerónimo, the new Branch President, up with us. There were over 100 family members who drove up, most in the backs of open trucks. Jerónimo dedicated the grave, as none of the family members were Melchizedek Priesthood holders. Some of the sons and grandsons put the casket in the hole and shoveled the dirt in. There were no officials there. A daughter asked us to take her and Evangelista back to Estelí, and both were totally calm. We visited Evangelista again Friday, and her son is there staying with her, as she is nervous to be alone. There are usually a lot of people staying there, so this is only temporary. It was interesting to witness the matter of fact attitudes they have about death.

Wednesday our Mission President, his wife, the AP's, and the sister leader were back up here working with the different companionships. President and Hermana Poncio went with both sets of Estelí Hermanas to do visits and lessons, and the girls took them to some of the crazy to walk places we visit regularly, but they walked all the way. We usually drive to the area and then hike or walk into and around the barrios. There were many periods of pouring rain that day. Needless to say they all got wet and muddy, but that's the reality of missionary work here. We fed the Poncios, AP's,  and ZL's in between their sets of visits. It was fun to hear what they thought of the work here, and how different it is than in Managua.

We love the people here! Most of the members are young in the gospel here in Estelí and we have to remind ourselves of that often. Even things that we think are simple and that we take for granted, they have to be taught and trained. We are finding that some can't read, which really slows their progress, as they can't read their scriptures or the Liahona, or sing the hymns until they've heard them many times. The extra sacrifices and efforts they are making truly humble us. They want the blessings of the gospel that are available for them, but they have to work much harder to achieve and receive them. The ones who truly strive to progress are successful and they are amazing examples to us all!

I'm excited for the Women's Broadcast tonight and General Conference next weekend! It is such a spiritual uplift to be able to hear from our prophet, the apostles, and our other general leaders. Have a fabulous week! Thanks for all you do! We love you!

Love,
Elder and Hermana Koelliker