(Just a note: the family had written to Andrew about some of the struggles they're having with the new schools, especially in regards to lower moral standards all around them. Thus his response.)
Hey Loved Ones!
First, to my family, I love you all so much. It's scary how fast this world is going downhill, and it's scary to think that my family has to go through that without me there. I pray for you all every day though, and I do know that we have a family equipped to handle even the worst Satan can throw at us. You all have the gift of the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost who will be with you at all times, so long as you stay true to who you are, a child of God. With His help, you will be protected from evil, and always be watched over. Don't doubt yourself. Never forget who you are, where you came from, or what you are becoming. Remember Hel 5:12, and live it at all times.
As for me out here on the other side of the world, things are going well. We have 2 baptisms this week, of a family we have been teaching forever. Sister Castillote has dropped cigarettes for good, and her level of commitment surprised even us. Her daughter is also being baptized with her. Her other daughter is waiting for her job to end so she can consistently come to church as well, and then be baptized. The father is interested in the Church as well, but travels frequently, so his time will come sometime in the future, hopefully soon. We were also able to find another 3 inactive families this week and had a great time teaching them. They are all excited to have been found by the missionaries and want to come back to church, but are struggling with money problems right now. We will continue to visit and assist them as they continue to find more and more happiness in their righteousness.
They are organizing a big youth activity right now for our area, and it looks like it's going to be a lot of fun. The youth are traveling to all the different areas in the Zone and doing different activities at each one. This has been a great way to encourage inactive youth to come back into activity and have fun with their old friends and meet new ones as well.
I love the Church, and how well the Lord organized it. Do you realize how many blessings we have? Welfare, Bishops Storehouse, the perpetual education fund, fellowshipping of home and visiting teachers, service from all our Brothers and Sisters, the ability to personally speak with representatives of Jesus Christ, and so much more I can't even begin to mention. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true, and I love it. How many 19 year old kids can say that they LOVE their church? How many people, young or old, can say that they know, without a doubt, that they belong to the one and only true and living church on the face of the Earth? Not many! We have so many blessings that so many of us take for granted. It is hard at times, but try to stop thinking about how hard you have it, and start thinking about how easy your life really is. Think of the life of our Savior and Redeemer, and you'll realize that you have it easy. Christ suffered for every single feeling and experience we will face in life, from death and disease, down to a stubbed toe, or bee sting. This truth will make your life so much happier and easier if you will just remember, and call on Him for His divine assistance at all times. That was sort of a tangent, but true, and it is awesome that these youth are learning that early on, so that the rest of their lives can be filled with hope and faith in Christ.
We are in Cebu right now for a temple trip, and we are going there right after this. Cebu has such a beautiful temple, and it is going to be awesome when Mom and Dad get to come out and go there with me. I am excited for you to see how amazing this part of the world is, but until that time, continue to enjoy each other's company out there! I love hearing about the family trips and adventures. I love you guys!
Keep the Faith! Nothing faltering.
Love,
Elder Garver
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