This Week is Over Already?!
Hello friends and family!
How is everyone doing? Hopefully good.
This last week was pretty good for me. I had to teach a gospel principles class in church yesterday. It was on Work and Personal Responsibility, something I have come/am coming to appreciate. "Work, Work, Work! There is no satisfactory substitute, especially in missionary work!" -Ezra Taft Benson.
Here is a lot...because a lot has happened this week.
So for now some unique experiences!
(Spirituality may vary, depending on experience)
So we have a new district leader (I learned that his first name is Porter and he is from Snake River Idaho), and he is just about as big as I am. He's super cool. We also have the Zone Leaders in our district. That's only slightly intimidating, but I don't make apostate jokes nearly as much as my companion, so that's ok. ANYWAYS. So we were having our first district meeting with the new district when my companion and I noticed some random guy walking around the church. We left to go see what he was doing. I forgot his name, but I will always remember his appearance and life-style. He has a long grey beard down to his belly, and two teeth that make him look trollish when he smiles. (When I say "two teeth" I mean he literally has only two teeth) He lives out near Lake Mead (at least I think it was lake mead) in his tiny little car. It was rusty and was full of his stuff. The reason he was at the church was because he was looking for his medication. We pointed him in the right direction, Gave him a Jesus card, and bid him good luck. He was awesome. Suffice it to say, he is my Hero.
If you recall Kyle, the guy we're teaching...well he lives in a 55+ old folk home. After one of our lessons we went outside and met this sassy old black lady named Mary. She was funny. She appreciated us stopping and talking with her because apparently everyone in that apartment building is rude (I can testify to that for sure, some old people can yell surprisingly loud). She says that sometimes she tries to have conversations with people and she has to get in their face and say "Excuse me?! I was talkin' to you! HELLO?!"
She was nice! I think we're seeing her on Tuesday...
Here in the new side of Henderson, people are well off. Right now I am by far in the least ghetto part of the mission. People have fancy things, like doorbell-camera-speaker hybrids that they can yell at you through. That happened the other day! This guy started yelling at us through his doorbell, so we went to the next door in the apartment complex, and he was still yelling at us! We ignored him of course, but that was still a fun experience! Fancy new toys for us to proselyte through...
Monday was rough.
My companion got sick and we were told to rest for the day. For roughly..... 12 hours? I've been reading, sleeping, eating and reading some more.... We ran to a lesson (which canceled) and a dinner appointment, but other than that, my companion has been resting. I ate all the farmhouse cookies my family sent me (thanks mum and dad!), and at one point, I literally stared at the wall. One thing I have learned from this, is that oftentimes the Adversary tries to get you when you are by yourself. Granted, I wasn't physically by myself, but sometimes the most random downer thoughts enter in when you are by yourself. The best part about it is recognizing it, saying a prayer, reading scriptures, and getting it out of the way. Satan only has power if we let him have it. Get him out of the way so that the Holy Spirit can be there instead!
Here's another experience! I got in a car accident. I am imagining my moms wide eyes as she read this, but it's okay mom, it wasn't bad at all, I promise! We were getting a ride with a member and he bumped into another car, and it caused more stress with the member and the other kids car. He was like, 16, and a member from Oregon (the other person, not our driver). That took roughly an hour and a half of our day...but it all worked out!
So supposedly the worst drivers come from California and Utah. Well, I'm here to tell you that those are false. Nevada. Nevada has the worst drivers ever. It's madness out here on the roads. Turn signals don't exist, and apparently speed limits don't either. People also honk their horns a lot. Now that I Think about it, Utah and California are connected to Nevada somehow...coincidence?! Probably.
Okay, now for some more spiritual stuff. Kyle came to church again, and went with a member to the classes while we were doing stuff in another ward. Hooray for fellowship! We brought him to the ward Christmas party and I talked with him and I honestly started to feel like he was my friend. Kyle is so cool! We talked about some of his experiences in the Marines, steak and about the Ward! He met some more members and has been doing awesome! He listened to the scriptures for an hour the other day. Granted, he says it was a lot, but the fact that he did that filled me with joy. I'm excited to help him on his journey. What a privilege! We had to get rid of the couches in our apartment (Presidents orders) so we carried one of our couches out our apartment complex, and across the street to Kyle's apartment (he had only his bed at the time). So that was neat! I'm not as strong as the lumber mill days, but it was a good feeling, nonetheless.
There is a less active family that is struggling with legal stuff and, lately they've been celebrating Hanukkah. Sooo we've been consistently stopping by since day 1, and we've finally gotten in there to teach. They still have testimonies of the Book of Mormon and the Prophets, but they'e had struggles with other members and their heritage, in reference to Judaism, but they want their son to be taught the lessons and be baptized! It has been an awesome experience meeting with them. I love that family a lot. They're super cool! Granted, the other day the mother said that she thought my companion was more wise and open, but I was pleased to receive the compliment, "You're more hard-line and firm". I like that steadfast feeling. One way I have noticed that I feel the spirit, is in an immovable and firm way. The spirit manifests to me through the adversity and the opposition I face, on occasion, that all things can be overcome through Christ, and one who has a testimony of the Gospel and the Book of Mormon is firmly ready to take on all challenges. That goes for everyone. Every single one of you can overcome all trials, difficulties and challenges, no matter what they may be or at what capacity.
Alma 26
12 Yea, I know that I am nothing; as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in his strength I can do all things; yea, behold, many mighty miracles we have wrought in this land, for which we will praise his name forever.
I know that the Book of Mormon is true, and that it is Gods word. I know that by living by its precepts, as well as the Bibles, that you will be happy, and that nothing will be able to knock you down. I recently finished the Book of Mormon for the 3rd time, and have started reading it again. It is such a wonderful and Glorious book. There is Power in it, and if you have not read it, then please Do. If you have not read it recently, then please Do.
There are many blessings awaiting you as you put forth that effort. This is my Testimony.
I love you guys!
-Elder Moore
December 12th, 2017
ROUND 2
Hello friends and family!
I wrote this huge long email describing my many accounts and adventures I've had this last week, and I thought I sent it, but alas, it disappeared! Soooo here we go again!
Today is transfers! What happened with me and Elder Bybee? Nothing! We're sticking around here in Henderson. It's going to be a good transfer though! I have high hopes! I went on exchanges with my old MTC companion, Elder Lu! We were in his area. It's the Ghetto! Old Henderson is what we call it. I was a part of a lesson with a recent convert and her reactivated husband! They are so cool. It was refreshing because we have a similar taste in music...they both had Misfits tattoos, and it was a handy icebreaker! (Thanks Dustin!) It was a cool experience feeling the spirit amidst horror movie things, skulls, and a ouija board, things all over their home. They are a changed couple for sure though! Very good people.
This last week, we have been teaching this guy named Kyle! He is a Vietnam vet, gone hobo, gone investigator! He ordered a Bible and a Book of Mormon online, and so we've been meeting with him! He's funny! He sends us funny messages over Facebook. "Power to the Elders!" "What it be my dedicated youngins?" That kind of thing. He's basically the bearded hobo grandpa I've never had. He even came to church after only one lesson! We're excited to teach him, because we love him so much!
The other day we had the cops called on us. A nice gentleman at the door politely yelled at us to go away and that he was calling the cops! The officer himself who came up and talked to us was a member. We also learned that what we are doing as Missionaries is super duper legal! First amendment rights for the win!
Yesterday we were knocking up the neighborhood, finding people to teach when we met these two guys in their garage. They were receptive and one of them said he had a Book of Mormon and that he works for a Mormon boss. They were nice. They also said they were going all "Rastafarian" on us, if we didn't mind. Regardless to say, the more we talked the more receptive they became. Also, marijuana smells nasty. Hopefully they remember enough of our conversation to remember our return appointment! I've never been that close to weed before...either way, they were cool.
It hasn't felt like winter. 60 degrees doesn't feel like winter. Neither does 70! It depends on the day for the amount of heat there actually is, but a jacket is helpful at night. Thanks Mom!
Today I went to the store and decided to buy oatmeal instead of cereal. I've also been eating a lot of baked beans. I'm almost positive if the members didn't feed us so much, I'd be losing weight! I can't tell though....our scale is broken.
Those are the more fun parts of my week! The work is moving onwards! Our area is building! Baptisms are on their way!
I love you all! More importantly, our Heavenly Father loves you all! He wants us to be happy and for us to return home! I know this is true. He loves us all so much that he sacrificed his only Begotten Son to bring us into his Fold! What a Glorious future awaits us when we can stand before our Heavenly Father again!
Stay strong! Keep doing good!
-Elder Moore
PS here is a picture of me next to a mannequin. Name that movie Dad!
PPS P Day is on Tuesday again next week
Hello friends and family!
I wrote this huge long email describing my many accounts and adventures I've had this last week, and I thought I sent it, but alas, it disappeared! Soooo here we go again!
Today is transfers! What happened with me and Elder Bybee? Nothing! We're sticking around here in Henderson. It's going to be a good transfer though! I have high hopes! I went on exchanges with my old MTC companion, Elder Lu! We were in his area. It's the Ghetto! Old Henderson is what we call it. I was a part of a lesson with a recent convert and her reactivated husband! They are so cool. It was refreshing because we have a similar taste in music...they both had Misfits tattoos, and it was a handy icebreaker! (Thanks Dustin!) It was a cool experience feeling the spirit amidst horror movie things, skulls, and a ouija board, things all over their home. They are a changed couple for sure though! Very good people.
This last week, we have been teaching this guy named Kyle! He is a Vietnam vet, gone hobo, gone investigator! He ordered a Bible and a Book of Mormon online, and so we've been meeting with him! He's funny! He sends us funny messages over Facebook. "Power to the Elders!" "What it be my dedicated youngins?" That kind of thing. He's basically the bearded hobo grandpa I've never had. He even came to church after only one lesson! We're excited to teach him, because we love him so much!
The other day we had the cops called on us. A nice gentleman at the door politely yelled at us to go away and that he was calling the cops! The officer himself who came up and talked to us was a member. We also learned that what we are doing as Missionaries is super duper legal! First amendment rights for the win!
Yesterday we were knocking up the neighborhood, finding people to teach when we met these two guys in their garage. They were receptive and one of them said he had a Book of Mormon and that he works for a Mormon boss. They were nice. They also said they were going all "Rastafarian" on us, if we didn't mind. Regardless to say, the more we talked the more receptive they became. Also, marijuana smells nasty. Hopefully they remember enough of our conversation to remember our return appointment! I've never been that close to weed before...either way, they were cool.
It hasn't felt like winter. 60 degrees doesn't feel like winter. Neither does 70! It depends on the day for the amount of heat there actually is, but a jacket is helpful at night. Thanks Mom!
Today I went to the store and decided to buy oatmeal instead of cereal. I've also been eating a lot of baked beans. I'm almost positive if the members didn't feed us so much, I'd be losing weight! I can't tell though....our scale is broken.
Those are the more fun parts of my week! The work is moving onwards! Our area is building! Baptisms are on their way!
I love you all! More importantly, our Heavenly Father loves you all! He wants us to be happy and for us to return home! I know this is true. He loves us all so much that he sacrificed his only Begotten Son to bring us into his Fold! What a Glorious future awaits us when we can stand before our Heavenly Father again!
Stay strong! Keep doing good!
-Elder Moore
PS here is a picture of me next to a mannequin. Name that movie Dad!
PPS P Day is on Tuesday again next week
December 6th, 2017
...a late letter
Hello friends and Family!
My apologies for my late email. I learned on Sunday night that our preparation day was on Wednesday instead of Monday this week, so that is why this is here on Wednesday rather than any other day. Oh! And next week p-day is on Tuesday, just so you know. So here we go!
I've officially been out on my Mission for 3 months now. Only 21 more to go! It has honestly flown by. We end up staying so busy and have a lot to do, but it is good. I have enjoyed the past few days. So now for a few stories that happened.
So here in Henderson, there is a church that does a food drive. The church itself is called "Our Saviors Lutheran Church". We help them on Tuesdays, unloading trucks of food and storing them for the rest of the week for the drive. I'm pretty sure that I mentioned it a few times already, but this last time we went there, I had the opportunity to take something home with me...they let me take a side of ribs. And if I'm not mistaken, the section of beef one would call "rib-eyes" come from said side of ribs. There is 10 pounds of beef in our freezer as we speak. My companion had a recipe for beef stroganoff that we made for our district, so that was neat. It made my day, honestly. It was indeed a Blessing!
More spiritual and awesome story now though...so the reason p-day was on Wednesday was because we had a mission tour. We had Elder Clark of the seventy come down and "inspect our mission". So for all of Tuesday we were being trained by a general authority on how to better do missionary work. But, it gets better...each companionship had to prepare a short lesson of repentance using the Book of Mormon for...something.
What ended up happening is some of the companionships were going to "role play" teaching Elder Clark and his wife as if they were investigators. Only a few were selected to do so. Me and my companion were the first...that's right, I got to teach a general authority about repentance in front of 3 zones. My trainer was super nervous, as was I. I don't exactly remember what I said though. All I remember was that afterwards, some of the missionaries in my district told us we "represented well" and I even had one Elder tell us that I acted more like the senior companion in the lesson than my trainer! It made my day. Once my nerves settled....
So, it has been an interesting week. We've been finding some really cool people to teach, and my training is a week away from being complete. My trainer says I've come a long way. There is a good chance that I will stay here in Henderson and get a new companion, but we'll see.
It's actually been chilly here in Vegas too. It got down to the 50's the other day in the mid afternoon. Most people we met thought I was crazy, but I enjoyed it....it was a well needed change from the heat.
It has been such a blessing to be out here to serve the people. I love the people we meet and I am loving the area. I am not a city person, that is for sure....but I am finding the more I work here, the more I enjoy it (even if it is more populated!) The Lord loves all of us, His children, no matter where we are at, physically, and spiritually. He loves us so much that he sent His Son to die for us. I know that we can repent of all things. The atonement of Christ is INFINITE. That means there is nothing too small nor too big that cannot be forgiven or repented of. I know that our Heavenly Father Loves us, and wants us to be happy, for this time, and for all eternity! I know that families can be together FOREVER. I love you all, and wish you all the best of luck!
God Speed, my friends
-Elder Moore
Hello friends and Family!
My apologies for my late email. I learned on Sunday night that our preparation day was on Wednesday instead of Monday this week, so that is why this is here on Wednesday rather than any other day. Oh! And next week p-day is on Tuesday, just so you know. So here we go!
I've officially been out on my Mission for 3 months now. Only 21 more to go! It has honestly flown by. We end up staying so busy and have a lot to do, but it is good. I have enjoyed the past few days. So now for a few stories that happened.
So here in Henderson, there is a church that does a food drive. The church itself is called "Our Saviors Lutheran Church". We help them on Tuesdays, unloading trucks of food and storing them for the rest of the week for the drive. I'm pretty sure that I mentioned it a few times already, but this last time we went there, I had the opportunity to take something home with me...they let me take a side of ribs. And if I'm not mistaken, the section of beef one would call "rib-eyes" come from said side of ribs. There is 10 pounds of beef in our freezer as we speak. My companion had a recipe for beef stroganoff that we made for our district, so that was neat. It made my day, honestly. It was indeed a Blessing!
More spiritual and awesome story now though...so the reason p-day was on Wednesday was because we had a mission tour. We had Elder Clark of the seventy come down and "inspect our mission". So for all of Tuesday we were being trained by a general authority on how to better do missionary work. But, it gets better...each companionship had to prepare a short lesson of repentance using the Book of Mormon for...something.
What ended up happening is some of the companionships were going to "role play" teaching Elder Clark and his wife as if they were investigators. Only a few were selected to do so. Me and my companion were the first...that's right, I got to teach a general authority about repentance in front of 3 zones. My trainer was super nervous, as was I. I don't exactly remember what I said though. All I remember was that afterwards, some of the missionaries in my district told us we "represented well" and I even had one Elder tell us that I acted more like the senior companion in the lesson than my trainer! It made my day. Once my nerves settled....
So, it has been an interesting week. We've been finding some really cool people to teach, and my training is a week away from being complete. My trainer says I've come a long way. There is a good chance that I will stay here in Henderson and get a new companion, but we'll see.
It's actually been chilly here in Vegas too. It got down to the 50's the other day in the mid afternoon. Most people we met thought I was crazy, but I enjoyed it....it was a well needed change from the heat.
It has been such a blessing to be out here to serve the people. I love the people we meet and I am loving the area. I am not a city person, that is for sure....but I am finding the more I work here, the more I enjoy it (even if it is more populated!) The Lord loves all of us, His children, no matter where we are at, physically, and spiritually. He loves us so much that he sent His Son to die for us. I know that we can repent of all things. The atonement of Christ is INFINITE. That means there is nothing too small nor too big that cannot be forgiven or repented of. I know that our Heavenly Father Loves us, and wants us to be happy, for this time, and for all eternity! I know that families can be together FOREVER. I love you all, and wish you all the best of luck!
God Speed, my friends
-Elder Moore
November 27th, 2017
Great!
'Allo!
I'm good. I had a great Thanksgiving!
Somehow the member family found out it was my birthday so they put a candle in the pumpkin pie and sang to me. It was surprising. I also forgot it was my birthday when it happened....
And now I'm 19. I still feel like a teenager. Well, it is technically in that age range, but supposedly I have to be more mature now. Ha!
It's been an interesting week. Since my companion had his bike stolen, it has been slow walking. However, we met this super nice Lutheran woman who let my companion use her bike for a while until he gets a new one. The Lord provides!
I've been asked a total of 4 times if I have a potato farm this week alone. I might just start saying yes at this point! It would make the conversations a lot simpler....
We've been working with less actives (LA) a bit more lately. We've been able to help them begin rekindling that faith, which is always cool to see. These people have faith, but without nourishment...it eventually diminishes. Like working a muscle or caring for flowers... you must care for it. Little by little. Line upon line.
We also had to coordinate a funeral this week. A less active family moved in recently, and their mother passed away. This particular LA wants to start coming back, plus one of her daughters is baptism age. So we are helping them get back on track. I've never had to speak at a funeral before....
There hasn't been much else to really talk about. Thanks for all the love and support! Thanks for all of the birthday goodies! (Those memes were a good pick me up).
Remember that Heavenly Father loves all of his Children! Remember to be faithful, to be Humble, and to do good continually! And remember that weakness is something to be made strong! If you have weakness (which we all do), then strive to make it strong! There is always room for improvement! Trust in our Father in Heaven! I know He loves us, and desires to strengthen us in our weakness, to show us His strength is greater than mans. I know that through him we are made mighty! Have no fear!
Ether 12
27 And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them.
I love you, my friends
I love you, my family
God loves you
He is your literal Father
He will bless you
-Elder Moore
Ahhh man I totally forgot!
This week we helped a less active clean and rearrange his room and part of that involved me taking a busted old bed-frame and smashing it to pieces with a hammer!!!
I think I officially intimidated my companion that day.
Anyways, Love you guys!
-Elder Moore
'Allo!
I'm good. I had a great Thanksgiving!
Somehow the member family found out it was my birthday so they put a candle in the pumpkin pie and sang to me. It was surprising. I also forgot it was my birthday when it happened....
And now I'm 19. I still feel like a teenager. Well, it is technically in that age range, but supposedly I have to be more mature now. Ha!
It's been an interesting week. Since my companion had his bike stolen, it has been slow walking. However, we met this super nice Lutheran woman who let my companion use her bike for a while until he gets a new one. The Lord provides!
I've been asked a total of 4 times if I have a potato farm this week alone. I might just start saying yes at this point! It would make the conversations a lot simpler....
We've been working with less actives (LA) a bit more lately. We've been able to help them begin rekindling that faith, which is always cool to see. These people have faith, but without nourishment...it eventually diminishes. Like working a muscle or caring for flowers... you must care for it. Little by little. Line upon line.
We also had to coordinate a funeral this week. A less active family moved in recently, and their mother passed away. This particular LA wants to start coming back, plus one of her daughters is baptism age. So we are helping them get back on track. I've never had to speak at a funeral before....
There hasn't been much else to really talk about. Thanks for all the love and support! Thanks for all of the birthday goodies! (Those memes were a good pick me up).
Remember that Heavenly Father loves all of his Children! Remember to be faithful, to be Humble, and to do good continually! And remember that weakness is something to be made strong! If you have weakness (which we all do), then strive to make it strong! There is always room for improvement! Trust in our Father in Heaven! I know He loves us, and desires to strengthen us in our weakness, to show us His strength is greater than mans. I know that through him we are made mighty! Have no fear!
Ether 12
27 And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them.
I love you, my friends
I love you, my family
God loves you
He is your literal Father
He will bless you
-Elder Moore
Ahhh man I totally forgot!
This week we helped a less active clean and rearrange his room and part of that involved me taking a busted old bed-frame and smashing it to pieces with a hammer!!!
I think I officially intimidated my companion that day.
Anyways, Love you guys!
-Elder Moore
 |
| The birthday package with aforementioned memes! |
November 21st, 2017
Prep Day Blues
Hello Friends and Family!
Preparation day got moved to Tuesday for us because today is our District Temple trip! So sorry about the late email.
Sorry that this email is later than normal. I went through the temple today and didn't get to WiFi until now. I love the temple. It's the best!
This week has been a whirlwind. So much stuff has happened...
I went on exchanges with my MTC companion. That was interesting. We met some quirky people. One guy talked in riddles and was being vague and mysterious. As soon as people see that religious name-tag, they feel it's necessary to explain their beliefs on life...as odd as they are. At the same time, some people still think we can't drink caffeine...I had someone the other day ask me how long our 'pilgrimage' lasts. Some people on the other hand don't realize how big the church actually is. The other day a lady yelled at us and told us to 'tell our pastor to never come back' into this area. I wondered who that would be for us? The district Leader? The zone leader? The Assistants? The Mission President? The local Bishop? The Stake President? The Primary president? I wouldn't know.
My companion got his bike stolen. That was a bummer because now we're walking and it takes longer to get to appointments. We were in an Albertsons getting our dinner and then when we walked out his bike was gone! My bike lock key went missing that day (I've found it since then) but he thought we'd be okay without locking our bikes. And then his was gone when we left! My bike was there. Luckily some members gave us a ride in their truck to our next destination.
Oh! I wrecked my bike a few days before that! It was awesome! We went down this curb and for whatever reason this time my bike ended up flipping forward on its back. I felt really cool, because in front of all of these people, I jumped forward over the handle bars and landed on my feet, laughing hysterically. I had to buy a replacement piece for it...but it's fixed now!
I had the opportunity to watch the face to face with Elder Oaks and Elder Ballard. That was cool! The President requested that we all watch it as missionaries (it was mainly for the ysa people, which we are technically....)
Uhhh that's about it. It's been pretty cool. The work is moving, that's all I can say. Some people are moving forward, others are not. Thus is life!
My birthday plans are thusly: proselyte, eat turkey, keep proselyting.
I remember a year ago, all I did was play video games the night before and then did birthday stuff...this year I will proselyte and then proselyte. Oh how the days go by...
Here's a neat scripture
Ether 2
21 And it came to pass that the brother of Jared did so, according as the Lord had commanded.
The Brother of Jared didn't question, didn't argue, didn't complain, he just did it.
That's admirable! I wish I could be better! I'd rather not have my personal story end up being "And it came to pass that Elder Moore complained and kicked against the pricks, and then did so, according as the Lord had commanded"
I know that doing as the Lord Commands brings blessings and joy, and that God does not give a commandment save that he provides a way for it to be fulfilled.
I Love you all!
-Elder Moore
Hello Friends and Family!
Preparation day got moved to Tuesday for us because today is our District Temple trip! So sorry about the late email.
Sorry that this email is later than normal. I went through the temple today and didn't get to WiFi until now. I love the temple. It's the best!
This week has been a whirlwind. So much stuff has happened...
I went on exchanges with my MTC companion. That was interesting. We met some quirky people. One guy talked in riddles and was being vague and mysterious. As soon as people see that religious name-tag, they feel it's necessary to explain their beliefs on life...as odd as they are. At the same time, some people still think we can't drink caffeine...I had someone the other day ask me how long our 'pilgrimage' lasts. Some people on the other hand don't realize how big the church actually is. The other day a lady yelled at us and told us to 'tell our pastor to never come back' into this area. I wondered who that would be for us? The district Leader? The zone leader? The Assistants? The Mission President? The local Bishop? The Stake President? The Primary president? I wouldn't know.
My companion got his bike stolen. That was a bummer because now we're walking and it takes longer to get to appointments. We were in an Albertsons getting our dinner and then when we walked out his bike was gone! My bike lock key went missing that day (I've found it since then) but he thought we'd be okay without locking our bikes. And then his was gone when we left! My bike was there. Luckily some members gave us a ride in their truck to our next destination.
Oh! I wrecked my bike a few days before that! It was awesome! We went down this curb and for whatever reason this time my bike ended up flipping forward on its back. I felt really cool, because in front of all of these people, I jumped forward over the handle bars and landed on my feet, laughing hysterically. I had to buy a replacement piece for it...but it's fixed now!
I had the opportunity to watch the face to face with Elder Oaks and Elder Ballard. That was cool! The President requested that we all watch it as missionaries (it was mainly for the ysa people, which we are technically....)
Uhhh that's about it. It's been pretty cool. The work is moving, that's all I can say. Some people are moving forward, others are not. Thus is life!
My birthday plans are thusly: proselyte, eat turkey, keep proselyting.
I remember a year ago, all I did was play video games the night before and then did birthday stuff...this year I will proselyte and then proselyte. Oh how the days go by...
Here's a neat scripture
Ether 2
21 And it came to pass that the brother of Jared did so, according as the Lord had commanded.
The Brother of Jared didn't question, didn't argue, didn't complain, he just did it.
That's admirable! I wish I could be better! I'd rather not have my personal story end up being "And it came to pass that Elder Moore complained and kicked against the pricks, and then did so, according as the Lord had commanded"
I know that doing as the Lord Commands brings blessings and joy, and that God does not give a commandment save that he provides a way for it to be fulfilled.
I Love you all!
-Elder Moore
 |
| District Temple Day |
November 13th, 2017
A Note From The Poster: Elder Moore's birthday falls on Thanksgiving this year...If you would like to send him a card or package, we advise sending it out this week so he gets it in time! His address can be found on the right side of this page!
Embrace The Waters of Baptism
Hello Friends and Family
I had the privilege of seeing one of our investigators get Baptized! It was a cool experience! This particular ward hasn't had a baptism in over a year so people were excited. His name is Will. His mother was baptized a long time ago, and his younger brother was baptized 4-ish years ago, and now he had the privilege to join the church!
He's had such a countenance change since I first met him. He was a cool dude with a lot of problems, but he has pushed through and everything is looking up for him! The gospel changed him in a big way. I'll send a picture or two from it.
I appreciate all the emails I get from you all. I love reading them.
I have a few more pictures I'll be sending. One of them is me reacting to salad. The other is a picture my companion took of me on p-day while a member took us to lunch. The member forgot his daughter's sippy cup so that's why I'm holding one. My companion took it when I wasn't looking. I look majestic though, quite honestly. Do I always look like that?
So for those of you who don't know, I'm in a place called Henderson. My particular area is suburbs and apartments and stuff. At night if you go up the hill, you can see a sea of golden lights, crowned by a spotlight and the strip itself. During the day, it appears to be a dry wasteland with a smog that blankets Vegas, luckily from a distance. I may have mentioned this before, but we are in a transient area. There are colleges nearby apparently, and since these places are more full of apartments, triplexes, and occasionally homes, people move in and out all the time. We've helped three people move in so far (that will let us help).
Te natural stuff around is desert, rock, cactuses, and palm tress. This ain't no Idaho. There are a lot of rabbits around here though. The same kind as in Idaho. We have roughly 4 or 5 that hide in the bushes around our apartment.
Oh and also I know what the smell of weed is like now. It's legal here and people like to smoke it out at night all the time. Every high person I've come across is usually in their apartment or on a balcony, and are usually nice. Or ...chill at least. I think it smells nasty.
My companion says that I will most likely be transferred out of valley, into the more "open" areas. He says that based purely on my personality, previous hobbies, and interests. We'll see though! My companion also thinks that I'm crazy for not bringing a coat or jacket. I still don't think that 65 is cold. I guess when the summers hit 117 though....
I had the opportunity to give some blessings the other day. That was neat. One of them got better the next day, and the other we'll have to wait and see. I keep my oil on one of my belt strap thingies, so that I can always remember my priesthood duty and always to be worthy of it. It's a great reminder. If any of you brothers are not already, you should keep it with you. You never know when you might need the oil itself, or the reminder of who you are commissioned by.
Remember also that keeping the commandments of God brings forth blessings. Many people forget that even simple things like praying and reading the scriptures are commandments as well. Even these simple things will bring you great Joy and Peace. I have seen it happen to people on my mission, and I have personally experienced it.
Mosiah 2
21 I say unto you that if he should serve him who has created you from the beginning, and is preserving you from day to day, by lending you breath, that ye may live and move and do according to your own will, and even supporting you from one moment to another--I say, if ye should serve him with all of your whole souls yet ye would be unprofitable servants.
22 And behold, all that he requires of you is to keep his commandments; and he has promised you that if ye would keep his commandments ye should prosper in the land; and he never doth vary form that which he hath said; therefore, if ye do keep his commandments he doth bless and prosper you.
I know that increased direction and strength will come to all how keep the commandments of God. They may seem restrictive in the moment, but the are far less restrictive than addiction, iniquity and indulgence. Though those things may perhaps bring momentary satisfaction, Keeping the Commandments of God brings forth Eternal Happiness and Joy that lasts even beyond this life. This is my Testimony to you.
-Elder Moore
Embrace The Waters of Baptism
Hello Friends and Family
I had the privilege of seeing one of our investigators get Baptized! It was a cool experience! This particular ward hasn't had a baptism in over a year so people were excited. His name is Will. His mother was baptized a long time ago, and his younger brother was baptized 4-ish years ago, and now he had the privilege to join the church!
He's had such a countenance change since I first met him. He was a cool dude with a lot of problems, but he has pushed through and everything is looking up for him! The gospel changed him in a big way. I'll send a picture or two from it.
I appreciate all the emails I get from you all. I love reading them.
I have a few more pictures I'll be sending. One of them is me reacting to salad. The other is a picture my companion took of me on p-day while a member took us to lunch. The member forgot his daughter's sippy cup so that's why I'm holding one. My companion took it when I wasn't looking. I look majestic though, quite honestly. Do I always look like that?
So for those of you who don't know, I'm in a place called Henderson. My particular area is suburbs and apartments and stuff. At night if you go up the hill, you can see a sea of golden lights, crowned by a spotlight and the strip itself. During the day, it appears to be a dry wasteland with a smog that blankets Vegas, luckily from a distance. I may have mentioned this before, but we are in a transient area. There are colleges nearby apparently, and since these places are more full of apartments, triplexes, and occasionally homes, people move in and out all the time. We've helped three people move in so far (that will let us help).
Te natural stuff around is desert, rock, cactuses, and palm tress. This ain't no Idaho. There are a lot of rabbits around here though. The same kind as in Idaho. We have roughly 4 or 5 that hide in the bushes around our apartment.
Oh and also I know what the smell of weed is like now. It's legal here and people like to smoke it out at night all the time. Every high person I've come across is usually in their apartment or on a balcony, and are usually nice. Or ...chill at least. I think it smells nasty.
My companion says that I will most likely be transferred out of valley, into the more "open" areas. He says that based purely on my personality, previous hobbies, and interests. We'll see though! My companion also thinks that I'm crazy for not bringing a coat or jacket. I still don't think that 65 is cold. I guess when the summers hit 117 though....
I had the opportunity to give some blessings the other day. That was neat. One of them got better the next day, and the other we'll have to wait and see. I keep my oil on one of my belt strap thingies, so that I can always remember my priesthood duty and always to be worthy of it. It's a great reminder. If any of you brothers are not already, you should keep it with you. You never know when you might need the oil itself, or the reminder of who you are commissioned by.
Remember also that keeping the commandments of God brings forth blessings. Many people forget that even simple things like praying and reading the scriptures are commandments as well. Even these simple things will bring you great Joy and Peace. I have seen it happen to people on my mission, and I have personally experienced it.
Mosiah 2
21 I say unto you that if he should serve him who has created you from the beginning, and is preserving you from day to day, by lending you breath, that ye may live and move and do according to your own will, and even supporting you from one moment to another--I say, if ye should serve him with all of your whole souls yet ye would be unprofitable servants.
22 And behold, all that he requires of you is to keep his commandments; and he has promised you that if ye would keep his commandments ye should prosper in the land; and he never doth vary form that which he hath said; therefore, if ye do keep his commandments he doth bless and prosper you.
I know that increased direction and strength will come to all how keep the commandments of God. They may seem restrictive in the moment, but the are far less restrictive than addiction, iniquity and indulgence. Though those things may perhaps bring momentary satisfaction, Keeping the Commandments of God brings forth Eternal Happiness and Joy that lasts even beyond this life. This is my Testimony to you.
-Elder Moore
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| Will's Baptism |
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| Reacting to Salad |
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| Candid Sippy Cup Shot |
November 6th, 2017
Iron Sharpens Iron
This past week has been pretty great! We have a Baptism coming up this weekend and we managed to get a few more people dedicated to a baptismal date. So that's exciting. This time around I haven't knocked anyone out. I did manage to skid down a hill and wreck one of my tire tubes. It was pretty cool because I basically drifted to a stop.... but I didn't mean to do it because one of my breaks loosened while riding somehow. So that was... neat.
Here is something kinda cool. There is this sweet old lady in one of our wards who got baptized roughly 4 or 5 years ago. She always forgets names so she gives the missionaries nicknames. Mine is Moose. I think it's great!
We went to the more ghetto side of town today for my companions haircut. It was more like a decrepit version of St. Anthony. Every building has some form of gambling machine. What a waste. You could easily put a fridge of chocolate milk in place of those machines.
We carved pumpkins in our apartment on Halloween. We had to be in early so that was kinda lame. The members keep giving us candy. Too much candy...Not enough chocolate anyways.
We saw a black widow spider the other day. I'll send some pictures of this stuff...and the spider.
There isn't a whole lot to say. We're getting Facebook this week instead. Or later. I don't know for sure.
We had a broadcast on this side of the states with Christopherson. It was pretty cool! We sat next to an investigator who said he felt the spirit pretty strongly and heard things that he needed to hear that applied to him.
I did something unspeakable though...something I never thought would happen. I made a weird decision.... one that may require a higher authority to confess to.......I bought salad. I bought the materials for salad, and carrots, and apples. I don't know who to talk to about this because its such an alien experience for me to willingly buy something healthy.....
I made up for it with hot dogs, a beef sandwich, and ginger ale though.
We have some different missionaries in this area. They're all super good at basketball. I would rather go on a hike but my companion hates hiking, and it hasn't been organized...
Yesterday we had a lesson....with a deaf person. We had to Skype in a temple square missionary who could sign. It was pretty neat! It was very basic and we had to teach slowly. We're going to show him how to use the ASL Book of Mormon online next time we meet.
That's about all there is. Nothing much else has gone on other than missionary work. I"ll send a few pictures I took.
In my personal time in the mornings or at night I read the Book of Mormon. That book is powerful. I find myself wanting to be like the prophets inside who testify to kings and fought valiantly for Christ. I think I have been doing similar things in my own way out here in the mission field.
Alma 5
45 And this is not all. Do ye not suppose that I know of these things myself? Behold I testify unto you that I do know that these things whereof I have spoken are true. And how do ye suppose that I know of their surety?
46 Behold I say unto you they are made known unto me by the Holy Spirit of God. Behold I have fasted and prayed many days that I might know these things of myself. And now I do know of myself that they are true; for the Lord God hath made them manifest unto me by his Holy Spirit; and this is the spirit of revelation which is in me.
I strongly encourage any and all of you to read the Book of Mormon if you are not already. Reading it every day is like putting on armor before battle. Blessings are poured out on the exercising of faith and there is no easier exercising of faith than saying a prayer and reading the scriptures. Faith like a seed, requires nourishment, or else it withers and dies. (Read Alma 32) So never forget to nourish that seed.
Don't let that spiritual edge become dulled.
I Love you guys!
Have faith that the Lord can do what He says He can do!
-Elder Moore
This past week has been pretty great! We have a Baptism coming up this weekend and we managed to get a few more people dedicated to a baptismal date. So that's exciting. This time around I haven't knocked anyone out. I did manage to skid down a hill and wreck one of my tire tubes. It was pretty cool because I basically drifted to a stop.... but I didn't mean to do it because one of my breaks loosened while riding somehow. So that was... neat.
Here is something kinda cool. There is this sweet old lady in one of our wards who got baptized roughly 4 or 5 years ago. She always forgets names so she gives the missionaries nicknames. Mine is Moose. I think it's great!
We went to the more ghetto side of town today for my companions haircut. It was more like a decrepit version of St. Anthony. Every building has some form of gambling machine. What a waste. You could easily put a fridge of chocolate milk in place of those machines.
We carved pumpkins in our apartment on Halloween. We had to be in early so that was kinda lame. The members keep giving us candy. Too much candy...Not enough chocolate anyways.
We saw a black widow spider the other day. I'll send some pictures of this stuff...and the spider.
There isn't a whole lot to say. We're getting Facebook this week instead. Or later. I don't know for sure.
We had a broadcast on this side of the states with Christopherson. It was pretty cool! We sat next to an investigator who said he felt the spirit pretty strongly and heard things that he needed to hear that applied to him.
I did something unspeakable though...something I never thought would happen. I made a weird decision.... one that may require a higher authority to confess to.......I bought salad. I bought the materials for salad, and carrots, and apples. I don't know who to talk to about this because its such an alien experience for me to willingly buy something healthy.....
I made up for it with hot dogs, a beef sandwich, and ginger ale though.
We have some different missionaries in this area. They're all super good at basketball. I would rather go on a hike but my companion hates hiking, and it hasn't been organized...
Yesterday we had a lesson....with a deaf person. We had to Skype in a temple square missionary who could sign. It was pretty neat! It was very basic and we had to teach slowly. We're going to show him how to use the ASL Book of Mormon online next time we meet.
That's about all there is. Nothing much else has gone on other than missionary work. I"ll send a few pictures I took.
In my personal time in the mornings or at night I read the Book of Mormon. That book is powerful. I find myself wanting to be like the prophets inside who testify to kings and fought valiantly for Christ. I think I have been doing similar things in my own way out here in the mission field.
Alma 5
45 And this is not all. Do ye not suppose that I know of these things myself? Behold I testify unto you that I do know that these things whereof I have spoken are true. And how do ye suppose that I know of their surety?
46 Behold I say unto you they are made known unto me by the Holy Spirit of God. Behold I have fasted and prayed many days that I might know these things of myself. And now I do know of myself that they are true; for the Lord God hath made them manifest unto me by his Holy Spirit; and this is the spirit of revelation which is in me.
I strongly encourage any and all of you to read the Book of Mormon if you are not already. Reading it every day is like putting on armor before battle. Blessings are poured out on the exercising of faith and there is no easier exercising of faith than saying a prayer and reading the scriptures. Faith like a seed, requires nourishment, or else it withers and dies. (Read Alma 32) So never forget to nourish that seed.
Don't let that spiritual edge become dulled.
I Love you guys!
Have faith that the Lord can do what He says He can do!
-Elder Moore
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| The Spider |
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| Halloween Pumpkin Carving |
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| Elder Moore's Pumpkin (1) |
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| Elder Moore's Pumpkin (2) |
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| Both the Elders's Pumpkins |
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| Halloween Decorations |
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| Captain Moroni and the Title of Liberty (Alma Chapter 46) |
October 30th, 2017
Blessings and Cursings
Hello family and friends
I have had a strange week. The first story happened right after my emails from last week....
We were playing Basketball in the stake centers gym with the other missionaries. It was fun and we were having a good time. Well, one person threw the ball way high, and I decided to go catch it. What ended up happening is my elbow connected with one of the Sister missionaries heads in the process. And then she ran to the restroom and threw up. And then she passed out. And then we called an ambulance. The good news is she's perfectly fine. She had a ct scan and she has 0 brain damage. I felt so bad though. It was a rough day.
The next day the President called me and told me that everything was fine and that I was fine, and all was well. It was a strange day. Since then, we had to go to some doctors appointments for my companion involving some weird stomach issues he's been having for a while. This doctors office was in Vegas itself not too far from the strip. I had a guy ask us if we were Mormons. We said yes. And then he asked for a urine sample (test)......because he wasn't clean.
Sooo then after that we went on with our week. One day we had a church tour set up and roughly 6 lessons planned in that day, and literally everything got cancelled. Right after, we were biking from a ward correlation meeting (with the ward mission leader) and my bike tire was flat. So we have to pick up another tire sometime today...its torn on the seam unfortunately beyond repair.
In between all of this we had the trunk or treats for the wards we work in. We got sent home with 30 corn-dogs....which is too much corn-dogs. We had one lesson yesterday with an investigator who's getting dunked on the 11 of November. He's awesome. His faith has skyrocketed since he's started going to church and reading and praying and stuff. This week had a lot going on. Sorry for not sending more pictures. There isn't much to send honestly. I'll find one or two from the trunk or treats and send them later today.
All that being said, we have managed to keep our spirits up. Its' kinda funny that all this nonsense happens, but one little text from an investigator saying how thankful they are for us can make it all better. The Lord works through people. This is definitely true.
Today is the end of Transfer number 1. Elder Bybee and I are sticking around Henderson for the next 6 weeks, so no moving for us.
OH! By the way! Our mission is getting Facebook! That's kinda neat. It's strange...using Facebook for missionary work. I have to get it again. It will be an adjustment. But this area needs it. We keep having people yell at us for being in apartment complexes, even though we aren't soliciting (we don't tract. We go to appointments already set up). It can be frustrating but these people are very private. Most of the neighbors don't even know who lives around them, unless they are members.
So Facebook will open up those doors that people will actually open. It'll be cool because I can actually use it the whole mission and even when I come home, so I could potentially stay connected with investigators even afterwards. So that's something new.
On Halloween, we have to be indoors by 6 unless we have lessons. That's about it. So many members want to feed us on Thanksgiving. Some have been actually fighting over it apparently. We might have multiple meals on Thanksgiving. That'll be a nice birthday present!
That's about it. The work has been slow this past week because of a million other things that have come up. However, I have a good feeling about this coming transfer. We have some awesome investigators set up who are on their way...And chances are high that I will be here for them.
Thanks for everything! Live Long and Conquer. God Speed.
-Elder Moore
Hello family and friends
I have had a strange week. The first story happened right after my emails from last week....
We were playing Basketball in the stake centers gym with the other missionaries. It was fun and we were having a good time. Well, one person threw the ball way high, and I decided to go catch it. What ended up happening is my elbow connected with one of the Sister missionaries heads in the process. And then she ran to the restroom and threw up. And then she passed out. And then we called an ambulance. The good news is she's perfectly fine. She had a ct scan and she has 0 brain damage. I felt so bad though. It was a rough day.
The next day the President called me and told me that everything was fine and that I was fine, and all was well. It was a strange day. Since then, we had to go to some doctors appointments for my companion involving some weird stomach issues he's been having for a while. This doctors office was in Vegas itself not too far from the strip. I had a guy ask us if we were Mormons. We said yes. And then he asked for a urine sample (test)......because he wasn't clean.
Sooo then after that we went on with our week. One day we had a church tour set up and roughly 6 lessons planned in that day, and literally everything got cancelled. Right after, we were biking from a ward correlation meeting (with the ward mission leader) and my bike tire was flat. So we have to pick up another tire sometime today...its torn on the seam unfortunately beyond repair.
In between all of this we had the trunk or treats for the wards we work in. We got sent home with 30 corn-dogs....which is too much corn-dogs. We had one lesson yesterday with an investigator who's getting dunked on the 11 of November. He's awesome. His faith has skyrocketed since he's started going to church and reading and praying and stuff. This week had a lot going on. Sorry for not sending more pictures. There isn't much to send honestly. I'll find one or two from the trunk or treats and send them later today.
All that being said, we have managed to keep our spirits up. Its' kinda funny that all this nonsense happens, but one little text from an investigator saying how thankful they are for us can make it all better. The Lord works through people. This is definitely true.
Today is the end of Transfer number 1. Elder Bybee and I are sticking around Henderson for the next 6 weeks, so no moving for us.
OH! By the way! Our mission is getting Facebook! That's kinda neat. It's strange...using Facebook for missionary work. I have to get it again. It will be an adjustment. But this area needs it. We keep having people yell at us for being in apartment complexes, even though we aren't soliciting (we don't tract. We go to appointments already set up). It can be frustrating but these people are very private. Most of the neighbors don't even know who lives around them, unless they are members.
So Facebook will open up those doors that people will actually open. It'll be cool because I can actually use it the whole mission and even when I come home, so I could potentially stay connected with investigators even afterwards. So that's something new.
On Halloween, we have to be indoors by 6 unless we have lessons. That's about it. So many members want to feed us on Thanksgiving. Some have been actually fighting over it apparently. We might have multiple meals on Thanksgiving. That'll be a nice birthday present!
That's about it. The work has been slow this past week because of a million other things that have come up. However, I have a good feeling about this coming transfer. We have some awesome investigators set up who are on their way...And chances are high that I will be here for them.
Thanks for everything! Live Long and Conquer. God Speed.
-Elder Moore
October 23rd, 2017
Death to Tyrants
Hello!
Some of you have asked me specific questions, which I will now answer.
Favorite candy bar? Kit Kats
Favorite costume? Cereal killer. I had a trench coat and a giant spoon with cereal boxes glued to it.
Favorite book in the Book of Mormon? Alma. Or 3rd Nephi
Favorite book in the Bible? Either...Judges or anything with John the Baptist.
Super power? The power to eat as much bacon as I want and not get heart disease or fat.
Color? Black.
12 week training? Consists of reading specific things out of Preach my Gospel, watching district videos and talking about them, and setting goals to talk and lead teaching or street contacts, etc.
How am I?
I'm doing pretty good. I'm tired. I keep having dreams. The other night I woke my companion up because I was giving a lesson in my sleep. It woke me up too. I remember it dealt with blessing someones life. We have some lessons to give tonight. We get to go to 2 trunk or treats. We've been inviting people to them. We also got invited to judge the chili in one of them.
The members have been eager to get involved with our teaching. It has been very good and useful. I had an investigator almost cry. That was neat. He told me that when I bore my testimony he thought God himself was speaking to him. I almost cried myself. It was a well needed pick me up because the spirit was so strong. Many a bosoms were burned. That sounds strange out of context.
My first transfer is coming to a close. Which means... unless I get transferred halfway through training nothing. A transfer is 6 weeks and usually ends with someone getting transferred out of a companionship, but that doesn't always happen.
There isn't much else to say on the broad note. Things are movin' along. We're basically rebuilding the area from the ground up, but we're getting there.
Love ya family!
Good luck friends!
-Elder Moore
Hello!
Some of you have asked me specific questions, which I will now answer.
Favorite candy bar? Kit Kats
Favorite costume? Cereal killer. I had a trench coat and a giant spoon with cereal boxes glued to it.
Favorite book in the Book of Mormon? Alma. Or 3rd Nephi
Favorite book in the Bible? Either...Judges or anything with John the Baptist.
Super power? The power to eat as much bacon as I want and not get heart disease or fat.
Color? Black.
12 week training? Consists of reading specific things out of Preach my Gospel, watching district videos and talking about them, and setting goals to talk and lead teaching or street contacts, etc.
How am I?
I'm doing pretty good. I'm tired. I keep having dreams. The other night I woke my companion up because I was giving a lesson in my sleep. It woke me up too. I remember it dealt with blessing someones life. We have some lessons to give tonight. We get to go to 2 trunk or treats. We've been inviting people to them. We also got invited to judge the chili in one of them.
The members have been eager to get involved with our teaching. It has been very good and useful. I had an investigator almost cry. That was neat. He told me that when I bore my testimony he thought God himself was speaking to him. I almost cried myself. It was a well needed pick me up because the spirit was so strong. Many a bosoms were burned. That sounds strange out of context.
My first transfer is coming to a close. Which means... unless I get transferred halfway through training nothing. A transfer is 6 weeks and usually ends with someone getting transferred out of a companionship, but that doesn't always happen.
There isn't much else to say on the broad note. Things are movin' along. We're basically rebuilding the area from the ground up, but we're getting there.
Love ya family!
Good luck friends!
-Elder Moore
October 17th, 2017
Elder Moore sent individual emails rather than the group one this time. Here are some excerpts!
Hey Mom! Supposing now that I have yet to actually explain my labors...
I wake up at 6:30 every day. Weekends too! No sleeping in for us. From 8:30 on is when the work begins. We bike most everywhere, so we don't usually exercise in the mornings. My legs are somewhat sore at the end of every week because we live downhill from the wards...so biking up hill is the norm. We've had to fix something on my bike 3 times now including a flat tire. It's in working order now though and hasn't given me trouble since.
Anyways, we have our studies in the morning and then after lunch at 12 we are either doing 12 week (training studies)or we are out for the rest of the day. Depending on who we meet that day usually dictates where we go. We usually talk with members part member families, less actives, and non members in a decent array of variety. We have had some new investigators lately that we've had lessons with. At 5 we have dinner. The members feed us every night. I am admittedly acquiring a taste for Mexican food and salads. We've had tacos, burritos and such every night this past week. I...have enjoyed them. Salads too.
The prime proselyting hours are after dinner from 6 to 9 for us. So nights are more successful as far as finding goes. We have many apartment complexes in our area. We've been kicked out of about 3 now. So those are more successful in the evenings when the workers are gone. At 9 we have to be home. And then bedtime is at 10:30 (unless you want to go to bed sooner). We study, find, and teach every day. Sunday are the busiest for us because of coordinating who's going to church, for which ward, and which members will help out. The members are eager to help out. This area has had many last-transfer missionaries. They get lazy and don't work nearly as hard. So in my first area, my companion and I are rebuilding it up again. We had almost nothing to work with when we started but now we are picking up speed. So the members are excited...because we've been working. We had to give 5 minute talks in one of our wards too. In the other ward we had an investigator there. So yesterday was a long day. Very busy.
But I enjoy it. The work is tough but the blessings are greater.
Here's a funny story. A guy kissed my companion. We've been telling him that if he keeps working at praying and reading that he'll see blessings in his life. He's got some brain damaged because of a motorcycle accident many years ago. Needless to say he had some blessings occur in his life. I never have seen a grown man jump for joy that high before. He hugged both of us, and kissed my companion on the cheek...I was too tall for him to do that thankfully. He's a funny guy.
I love you mom!
Thanks for all the support!
-Elder Moore
JEALOUS BUT OPTIMISTIC
That's awesome that you have a job from home now! That sounds nice. My current "job" hardly takes place in my apartment. We're constantly on the move from one appointment or location to another. It can be tiring, but at least that means you get good nights sleep.
I'm actually super jealous of the cold. Coldest it has been was in the 70s. They say that the winter is coming and it will get colder around here. If you consider 65 cold.
I'm super excited for the progress of Miles and Maddox even if I'm not there to see it for myself. I miss the little guys. Miles is probably smarter than all of my fellow missionaries combined! And Maddox is probably too, honestly...
Thanks for all the support! I love you Bergen!
-Elder Moore
October 9th, 2017
BLOOD AND IRON
This time around I realized that some of the new emails I got were not added so some of you might be late in hearing from me...my apologies. But now you can!
Also, if you want to reply to me through email and don't want everyone on this email list to see it...you'll have to send it to just me.
Anyways...
Hello!
This last week went by super fast. Like a blur. I thought p-day was yesterday, but that was a week ago...
This week has been good though! The people here are pretty cool. Also diverse. We've met people from: Saudi Arabia, India, Israel, Brazil, Mexico, Hawaii, Indonesia, Africa, and the Philippines. Seriously, people in Vegas are from everywhere. I may not be in a foreign mission but it is incredibly diverse.
I admit that this email is difficult to write. Why? Well I'd be repeating myself a lot. There isn't a whole lot to share. I could go on and on about the mission numbers and how many people are getting baptized or whatever, but I feel compelled to not do that. Mostly for reasons of it feels personal and sacred...not just to me, but for the people. I am but an instrument. That sort of thing.
One of my favorite analogies for trials is the forge. Like strikes of a hammer forging metal into an instrument so do our trials shape us. I've been thinking about the people we meet and discuss with, and their trials. A practice I've tried to take on is to imagine them getting baptized and making sacred covenants. Imagine them in the Gospel light. I know I've vaguely mentioned trials in my testimonies to my fellow missionaries at the mtc, and my parents definitely know of the difficulties that I had back in the day but looking back...they were almost necessary for me to truly recognize the joys of the Gospel.
2 Nephi 2
25 Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.
Quite simply, we go through difficulties, are sad, are angry, etc... in order to feel Joy.We just have to do our part for God in order for him to bless us.
The other day I got a letter from my old Bishop back home. He said a simple phrase that I appreciated. Paraphrased, he said "It does not matter in what capacity we serve- but how we serve that counts."
Sorry about the shorter letter. I don't have much to say. We saw miracles and great things happen. Our Heavenly Father is ready to bless us if we will but remember him and endure faithfully in our trials.
Here is one more quote for you.
"We need the iron qualities that go with true manhood [and true womanhood]. We need the positive virtues of resolution, of indomitable will, of power to do without shirking the rough work that must always be done"
-Theodore Roosevelet
God Speed, friends and family
Never forget the God that gave you breath, and never shirk the rough work that must always be done.
-Elder Moore
This time around I realized that some of the new emails I got were not added so some of you might be late in hearing from me...my apologies. But now you can!
Also, if you want to reply to me through email and don't want everyone on this email list to see it...you'll have to send it to just me.
Anyways...
Hello!
This last week went by super fast. Like a blur. I thought p-day was yesterday, but that was a week ago...
This week has been good though! The people here are pretty cool. Also diverse. We've met people from: Saudi Arabia, India, Israel, Brazil, Mexico, Hawaii, Indonesia, Africa, and the Philippines. Seriously, people in Vegas are from everywhere. I may not be in a foreign mission but it is incredibly diverse.
I admit that this email is difficult to write. Why? Well I'd be repeating myself a lot. There isn't a whole lot to share. I could go on and on about the mission numbers and how many people are getting baptized or whatever, but I feel compelled to not do that. Mostly for reasons of it feels personal and sacred...not just to me, but for the people. I am but an instrument. That sort of thing.
One of my favorite analogies for trials is the forge. Like strikes of a hammer forging metal into an instrument so do our trials shape us. I've been thinking about the people we meet and discuss with, and their trials. A practice I've tried to take on is to imagine them getting baptized and making sacred covenants. Imagine them in the Gospel light. I know I've vaguely mentioned trials in my testimonies to my fellow missionaries at the mtc, and my parents definitely know of the difficulties that I had back in the day but looking back...they were almost necessary for me to truly recognize the joys of the Gospel.
2 Nephi 2
25 Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.
Quite simply, we go through difficulties, are sad, are angry, etc... in order to feel Joy.We just have to do our part for God in order for him to bless us.
The other day I got a letter from my old Bishop back home. He said a simple phrase that I appreciated. Paraphrased, he said "It does not matter in what capacity we serve- but how we serve that counts."
Sorry about the shorter letter. I don't have much to say. We saw miracles and great things happen. Our Heavenly Father is ready to bless us if we will but remember him and endure faithfully in our trials.
Here is one more quote for you.
"We need the iron qualities that go with true manhood [and true womanhood]. We need the positive virtues of resolution, of indomitable will, of power to do without shirking the rough work that must always be done"
-Theodore Roosevelet
God Speed, friends and family
Never forget the God that gave you breath, and never shirk the rough work that must always be done.
-Elder Moore
October 2nd, 2017
Macho Madness
Hello friends and family!
The days have flown by. I feel like the last p-day was yesterday. I bought more than just a gallon of milk this time. I bought 2! This week was good, as most weeks are. Of course there are challenges and difficulties, but none of them are unconquerable. We've been good at finding people to teach but it's been difficult actually teaching them. People don't answer their doors here very often. We've been keeping in contact with a less active family, so that's been good. Watching people revitalize their faith is the coolest thing to witness. The Lord works with those who sincerely work to find the absolute truth for themselves.
I've been reading the Book of Mormon a lot lately. It's inspiring to read the words of Prophets who say things that you yourself have been thinking. I read Alma 29 last night and it gave me chills. Very glorious.
It was sad to hear about Frazier (my dog for those who don't know). He will be missed. I remember the day we got him. I was on the verge of getting hospitalized because of that sickness but then we got him and I got better the next day. He was a funny dog. Barked like crazy but was timid and gentle. I'll miss him.
So y'all probably heard about the shooting in Vegas. I heard about it this morning. We got a text from our Zone Leaders to make sure we were indoors on time. It was on the strip, so out of our range, but still...crazy stuff. Seems like as soon as we got out here that the world got even more crazy. I come from a more sheltered place, so maybe this is how it's always been. Either way, we should not fear. Fear is the opposite of Faith.
It hit 90 degrees the other day. The weeks get hotter and then they dip down to the 70s at the beginning. Supposedly it gets windy here in the fall. I have yet to feel such winds.
Sorry if I haven't been responding to everybody. I read all of the emails I get, and I appreciate hearing from all of you. It makes my day. P days are kinda boring because we aren't on the go as much these days. Not until evenings anyways.
Being a Missionary has helped me recognize the role that the Lord plays in my life a lot better. He's always ready to bless and guide us, so long as we heed his words.
General Conference was awesome of course. This is the first time in my life that I took notes on all of the speakers (even if they were brief notes). I found myself pondering the needs of the investigators more than myself during the talks. I wrote one particular quote really big and underlined it in my journal.
OPPOSITION STRENGTHENS OUR FAITH.
Eyring said it.
We have a lot of opposition in our day. It is a glorious battle that we constantly wage against the adversary and against sin. In every aspect of opposition, we should be strengthened in our faith, and not give in to fear. We read in Ether 12:6 that witness comes after the trial of our faith. So never give in, and never surrender. After all, we did not come to Earth to Lose.
D&C 63:47
47 He that is faithful and endureth shall overcome the world.
3 Nephi 9
9 Behold, I am the law, and the light. Look unto me, and endure do the end, and ye shall live; for unto him that endureth to the end will I give eternal life
Keep Fighting the Good Fight!
God Speed
-Elder Moore
Hello friends and family!
The days have flown by. I feel like the last p-day was yesterday. I bought more than just a gallon of milk this time. I bought 2! This week was good, as most weeks are. Of course there are challenges and difficulties, but none of them are unconquerable. We've been good at finding people to teach but it's been difficult actually teaching them. People don't answer their doors here very often. We've been keeping in contact with a less active family, so that's been good. Watching people revitalize their faith is the coolest thing to witness. The Lord works with those who sincerely work to find the absolute truth for themselves.
I've been reading the Book of Mormon a lot lately. It's inspiring to read the words of Prophets who say things that you yourself have been thinking. I read Alma 29 last night and it gave me chills. Very glorious.
It was sad to hear about Frazier (my dog for those who don't know). He will be missed. I remember the day we got him. I was on the verge of getting hospitalized because of that sickness but then we got him and I got better the next day. He was a funny dog. Barked like crazy but was timid and gentle. I'll miss him.
So y'all probably heard about the shooting in Vegas. I heard about it this morning. We got a text from our Zone Leaders to make sure we were indoors on time. It was on the strip, so out of our range, but still...crazy stuff. Seems like as soon as we got out here that the world got even more crazy. I come from a more sheltered place, so maybe this is how it's always been. Either way, we should not fear. Fear is the opposite of Faith.
It hit 90 degrees the other day. The weeks get hotter and then they dip down to the 70s at the beginning. Supposedly it gets windy here in the fall. I have yet to feel such winds.
Sorry if I haven't been responding to everybody. I read all of the emails I get, and I appreciate hearing from all of you. It makes my day. P days are kinda boring because we aren't on the go as much these days. Not until evenings anyways.
Being a Missionary has helped me recognize the role that the Lord plays in my life a lot better. He's always ready to bless and guide us, so long as we heed his words.
General Conference was awesome of course. This is the first time in my life that I took notes on all of the speakers (even if they were brief notes). I found myself pondering the needs of the investigators more than myself during the talks. I wrote one particular quote really big and underlined it in my journal.
OPPOSITION STRENGTHENS OUR FAITH.
Eyring said it.
We have a lot of opposition in our day. It is a glorious battle that we constantly wage against the adversary and against sin. In every aspect of opposition, we should be strengthened in our faith, and not give in to fear. We read in Ether 12:6 that witness comes after the trial of our faith. So never give in, and never surrender. After all, we did not come to Earth to Lose.
D&C 63:47
47 He that is faithful and endureth shall overcome the world.
3 Nephi 9
9 Behold, I am the law, and the light. Look unto me, and endure do the end, and ye shall live; for unto him that endureth to the end will I give eternal life
Keep Fighting the Good Fight!
God Speed
-Elder Moore
Safety Update (10/2/2017)
For those who have asked, Porter is serving in South Las Vegas currently. We received this message on his missions Facebook page--
Dear Parents and Priesthood Leaders,
In an effort to keep you informed regarding the tragic and sad shooting that occurred last evening on the Las Vegas Strip, we can report that all missionaries are safe and accounted for. Since early the morning we were able to confirm that they were all safe and now going about their normal preparation day activities.
As a matter of information for future reference, the Las Vegas Strip is considered to be an "off-limits" area for all missionaries.
We would ask that you please join us in remembering all those that were affected by this tragedy in your personal and family prayers. We are so grateful for each of you and the constant words of encouragement, support, and love you provide to your missionary.
We love them dearly as well.
May the Lord continue to bless you in all that you do.
With great respect,
Richard and Kathy Youngblood
Nevada Las Vegas Mission
Dear Parents and Priesthood Leaders,
In an effort to keep you informed regarding the tragic and sad shooting that occurred last evening on the Las Vegas Strip, we can report that all missionaries are safe and accounted for. Since early the morning we were able to confirm that they were all safe and now going about their normal preparation day activities.
As a matter of information for future reference, the Las Vegas Strip is considered to be an "off-limits" area for all missionaries.
We would ask that you please join us in remembering all those that were affected by this tragedy in your personal and family prayers. We are so grateful for each of you and the constant words of encouragement, support, and love you provide to your missionary.
We love them dearly as well.
May the Lord continue to bless you in all that you do.
With great respect,
Richard and Kathy Youngblood
Nevada Las Vegas Mission
September 25th, 2017
Righteous Indignation
Hello!
I've added like 20ish people to my weekly email so this will be interesting.
I have enjoyed Vegas thus far. Last night, while proselyting, me and my trainer got to the top of a hill on our bikes and we saw a sea of golden lights. The city of sin itself. It was neat!
My trainers name is Elder Bybee. He's pretty cool. He likes Disney music. He says it's pretty cold in the mornings. I laugh and say 70 degrees isn't cold.
I've lost a lot of weight. At the beginning of this summer I weighed roughly 300 pounds. Now I'm at 255. Cool huh? Although I'll probably add more. Not on purpose. The members feed us every day. The members are nice and they have delicious food. Mom will be proud. I've been eating vegetables. Salads too.
Today we ate food at a restaurant called Great Harvest Bread Co. It was free because we are missionaries. And it was delicious. I had a bacon sandwich...Which speaks for itself.
As far as missionary experiences go they've been glorious. Day 1 we committed a man to baptism. He'd had most of the lessons too, so that was nice. We met a few new people and we even have 3 lessons planned for tonight.
There are a lot of Catholics and Baptists here, surprisingly enough. We had one lady yell at us to get off her property, so that was funny.
We met a delivery guy from some internet service and he's out of mission area but he expressed a desire to return to Christ and to get clean again. He has quite a past so we said a prayer and he almost teared up. It was cool. Oh I also gave my first blessing of healing for this old lady in one of the wards. She was super nice. I was honored.
There are a lot of cool people here around Vegas. The area I'm in is south of Vegas. I was talking to my companion about other areas and in the north west of the mission is known as Peach (or something similar). The missionaries there hike every other week 9 miles to the grand canyon to visit and teach the Native Americans on the reservation. Supposedly most of the mare members but they have a huge alcohol problem. I will go where the Lord wants me to go, But I admit I have a great desire to go there.
My mission president is a friendly and awesome guy. He interviewed all the newbies when we got here. Mine lasted like 30 seconds. I always wonder why mind don't last long. It's not a concern, more of a curiosity. His name is Pres. Youngblood.
Sorry if this emails is jagged and random. I've been busy and thinking about a lot lately. Of the people we meet, of how I can be a tool in the Lords hands and how I can use my strengths and strengthen my weaknesses. That kind of thing. Also taking it all in. The new climate and location are weird because summer back home (Idaho) kinda feels like their fall. At least from what I remember.
Actually being a missionary and reading the book of mormon is way different. Suddenly the Nephis, Almas, Mosiahs and Ammons are super relateable. They preach and teach and help people. The way they do it is even missionary like. Committing people to pray to repent to get baptized, ett...
The time between getting home and sleeping I oftentimes find myself reading out of the Book of Mormon and reading some cool quotes out of the Journal my brother gave me a while ago. They've been inspiring and motivation to continue to work.
"We either make ourselves miserable, or we make ourselves strong. The amount of work is the same." -Carlos Castanech
(While the Nephites were in bondage to the Lamanites)
Mosiah 24:14 and 15
14 And I will ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions.
15 And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yeah, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of their Lord.
And here is one more scripture
Joshua 1:5 and 9
5 There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
...
9 Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
Friends, family and fellow missionaries: Take courage! Fear no man or woman! Trust that the Savior can strengthen you! Trust that God will prepare the pathway for you! Trust in yourself to take on all challenges and foes! I testify of this truth! Put on the full armor of God and stride into battle with Trust in God and courage in your hearts (Read Ephesians 6:11-18)
God Speed
-Elder Moore
Hello!
I've added like 20ish people to my weekly email so this will be interesting.
I have enjoyed Vegas thus far. Last night, while proselyting, me and my trainer got to the top of a hill on our bikes and we saw a sea of golden lights. The city of sin itself. It was neat!
My trainers name is Elder Bybee. He's pretty cool. He likes Disney music. He says it's pretty cold in the mornings. I laugh and say 70 degrees isn't cold.
I've lost a lot of weight. At the beginning of this summer I weighed roughly 300 pounds. Now I'm at 255. Cool huh? Although I'll probably add more. Not on purpose. The members feed us every day. The members are nice and they have delicious food. Mom will be proud. I've been eating vegetables. Salads too.
Today we ate food at a restaurant called Great Harvest Bread Co. It was free because we are missionaries. And it was delicious. I had a bacon sandwich...Which speaks for itself.
As far as missionary experiences go they've been glorious. Day 1 we committed a man to baptism. He'd had most of the lessons too, so that was nice. We met a few new people and we even have 3 lessons planned for tonight.
There are a lot of Catholics and Baptists here, surprisingly enough. We had one lady yell at us to get off her property, so that was funny.
We met a delivery guy from some internet service and he's out of mission area but he expressed a desire to return to Christ and to get clean again. He has quite a past so we said a prayer and he almost teared up. It was cool. Oh I also gave my first blessing of healing for this old lady in one of the wards. She was super nice. I was honored.
There are a lot of cool people here around Vegas. The area I'm in is south of Vegas. I was talking to my companion about other areas and in the north west of the mission is known as Peach (or something similar). The missionaries there hike every other week 9 miles to the grand canyon to visit and teach the Native Americans on the reservation. Supposedly most of the mare members but they have a huge alcohol problem. I will go where the Lord wants me to go, But I admit I have a great desire to go there.
My mission president is a friendly and awesome guy. He interviewed all the newbies when we got here. Mine lasted like 30 seconds. I always wonder why mind don't last long. It's not a concern, more of a curiosity. His name is Pres. Youngblood.
Sorry if this emails is jagged and random. I've been busy and thinking about a lot lately. Of the people we meet, of how I can be a tool in the Lords hands and how I can use my strengths and strengthen my weaknesses. That kind of thing. Also taking it all in. The new climate and location are weird because summer back home (Idaho) kinda feels like their fall. At least from what I remember.
Actually being a missionary and reading the book of mormon is way different. Suddenly the Nephis, Almas, Mosiahs and Ammons are super relateable. They preach and teach and help people. The way they do it is even missionary like. Committing people to pray to repent to get baptized, ett...
The time between getting home and sleeping I oftentimes find myself reading out of the Book of Mormon and reading some cool quotes out of the Journal my brother gave me a while ago. They've been inspiring and motivation to continue to work.
"We either make ourselves miserable, or we make ourselves strong. The amount of work is the same." -Carlos Castanech
(While the Nephites were in bondage to the Lamanites)
Mosiah 24:14 and 15
14 And I will ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions.
15 And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yeah, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of their Lord.
And here is one more scripture
Joshua 1:5 and 9
5 There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
...
9 Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
Friends, family and fellow missionaries: Take courage! Fear no man or woman! Trust that the Savior can strengthen you! Trust that God will prepare the pathway for you! Trust in yourself to take on all challenges and foes! I testify of this truth! Put on the full armor of God and stride into battle with Trust in God and courage in your hearts (Read Ephesians 6:11-18)
God Speed
-Elder Moore
 |
| Vegas from a distance. Aka: a worthy foe. |
 |
| New missionaries and trainers. |
 |
| New missionaries training! |
September 20th, 2017 (First E-mail from Vegas)
Viva Las Vegas
Hello mum!
I made it to Vegas! We drove passed the strip and I do not care to ever go there.
President Youngblood is a cool guy. Very funny. Vegas is hot. One cool thing is one of the missionaries that came with us to Vegas is from Iceland. So that's neat. 2 of the sisters here are from Idaho. I'm excited to get started. I find out which area I go to tomorrow. Woot woot!
I love you mum!
God Speed
-Elder Moore
Hello mum!
I made it to Vegas! We drove passed the strip and I do not care to ever go there.
President Youngblood is a cool guy. Very funny. Vegas is hot. One cool thing is one of the missionaries that came with us to Vegas is from Iceland. So that's neat. 2 of the sisters here are from Idaho. I'm excited to get started. I find out which area I go to tomorrow. Woot woot!
I love you mum!
God Speed
-Elder Moore
September 19th, 2017
Onwards! To Glory!
Dear friends and family,
My time at the Mtc is finally over! Tomorrow at 9 am I get on a bus to go to Vegas. Yeah that's right, we're taking a bus. 6 to 7 hour drive. Roadtrip! Woot!
Half of our district, the Reno missionaries, left today. So we're half a district today. Luckily we get a p day before we go. I'm ready to get out of here though. The mtc was fun and all, but I'm ready for Vegas. It's kinda funny that it is getting colder back home. It's going to feel like summer where I'm going. Just way hotter. I honestly can't think of much to say right now. I pack up today and ship out tomorrow. There hasn't been anything super exciting to really talk about. Classes have been more laid back, trcs went by super fast, and every day seems like a blur. Time has no meaning here at the mtc. It feels like I've been here forever, honestly. I'm glad to be moving on though.
This is just the middle ground between my old life and the real work. Or so it seems. It's interesting to look back on my old life and see at how it has affected me today. Hardships and hard work do pay off if you endure faithfully. Remember that.
Mosiah 8
18 Thus God has provided a means that man, through faith, might work mighty miracles; therefore he becometh a great benefit to his fellow beings.
Your hardships and trials today forge you into the instrument that God needs you to be tomorrow.
-Elder Moore
PS
Thanks for the letters and the treats.
Dear friends and family,
My time at the Mtc is finally over! Tomorrow at 9 am I get on a bus to go to Vegas. Yeah that's right, we're taking a bus. 6 to 7 hour drive. Roadtrip! Woot!
Half of our district, the Reno missionaries, left today. So we're half a district today. Luckily we get a p day before we go. I'm ready to get out of here though. The mtc was fun and all, but I'm ready for Vegas. It's kinda funny that it is getting colder back home. It's going to feel like summer where I'm going. Just way hotter. I honestly can't think of much to say right now. I pack up today and ship out tomorrow. There hasn't been anything super exciting to really talk about. Classes have been more laid back, trcs went by super fast, and every day seems like a blur. Time has no meaning here at the mtc. It feels like I've been here forever, honestly. I'm glad to be moving on though.
This is just the middle ground between my old life and the real work. Or so it seems. It's interesting to look back on my old life and see at how it has affected me today. Hardships and hard work do pay off if you endure faithfully. Remember that.
Mosiah 8
18 Thus God has provided a means that man, through faith, might work mighty miracles; therefore he becometh a great benefit to his fellow beings.
Your hardships and trials today forge you into the instrument that God needs you to be tomorrow.
-Elder Moore
PS
Thanks for the letters and the treats.
 |
| The Elder on the right is Elder Lu. He was my companion |
September 12th, 2017
TRIUMPH AND POWER
Hello Friends and Family!
In exactly a week I ship off to Vegas to party it up for 2 years! (Sorta)
Since last week I've had a few cool things happen. I gave my first priesthood blessing. I don't remember what I said so it must have been good. The spirit was strong then. Last Wednesday my companion and I had a rough TRC lesson and that day was a bit more challenging. I was outside and I said a prayer asking heavenly father if I did anything wrong or what the problem was. After I said amen I got this feeling of comfort. I felt a spiritual hug and the affirmation that I was doing the right things. And then the BYU bell rang. Every night it plays "All is Well". I cried. It was glorious.
The rest of the TRC lessons went very well. On the last day she almost cried and was super emotional because she loved the lessons and she definitely felt the spirit.
This week we got two new TRCs. One is an older lady who is going to be a challenge. I thought she was cool but she has deep philosophical and religious questions that are tough to answer. Then the other was a college student who I'm pretty sure just needs to be baptized. Or is a member. Either way.
Last Tuesday we had Dallin H. Oaks speak at the MTC so that was cool. Powerful stuff.
My companion and I haven't killed each other so I'd say we're doing pretty well. The District as a whole is doing well. The sisters made the Elders a cute little note last week and so we gave them some origami thing with all of our favorite scriptures written on it. We also have a list of goals that we are trying to follow. Like be more reverent, show more love and charity, pray for the spirit every day, that kind of thing.
A few funny things happened in the dorm. One of the Elders in my room was able to put his shoes on and then wear my shoes over them. He looked like he had clown feet. I also apparently speak with a Scottish accent really well. So my roommates always ask me to say something in a Scottish accent. I didn't think it was that good but apparently it is.
I'm not going to lie today was probably the toughest day ever at the MTC. All morning I had to listen to my companion and fellow elders talk about Anime and Twenty one pilots in the breakfast line. It was easily the greatest test of patience the Lord has ever committed upon me.
I guess I could tell you guys about the Elders and Sisters in my district. At least a little. My companion Elder Lu is from Boise. He's also the first American and missionary in his family, which is from China. He's good with computer stuff and likes video games. He's also ridiculously organized. In a good way probably. In lessons we balance each other out because he's got the words and facts and I jump in at questions, to share scriptures or to bear my testimony. It is an interesting dynamic.
One of the Elders named Elder Graves is stupidly smart and will probably rule the world someday. He's been writing a book and he knows all about engineering and ww2 stuff.
Another Elder Elder Day is a flutist and is apparently super good at it. He's also good emotional support for the Elders who miss their girlfriends. He pillow talks a lot with the other elders. Not with me thankfully. Another is Elder Waddoups. He's a sponsored snowmobile rider from Blackfoot. Also talks loudly and often. Very Idaho sportsman.
Another is Elder Hubbell. He's a talker. He loves Disney stuff and Marvel comics and he'll argue you to death over either. Also kind of a treehugger but I'll let that slide. We have an Elder Jacobs from Alberta Canada. He's about as tall as I am. He is loud, and he'll tell you exactly what he's thinking. Usually about something stupid you've done or how much he hates soccer. It makes us all laugh. He's in a trio with Elder Anderson and an Elder Linford. Anderson is from Texas and loves BBQ. He's the kind of guy who you would see as an ag teacher at a high school. Which is what he's gonna be. Elder Linford is super good at drawing comic style art. The kind you'd see in the Saturday or Sunday morning cartoons He also does a ton of pull ups everyday. The last two elders are Elder Preece and Scoffield. Preece is going to be a college baseball pitcher at some university in Virginia. He's fluent in sign language and is really easy to get along with. Elder Scoffield is a smart guy and he loves quoting movies. He's super good and into soccer. He wants to be a voice actor and I can totally see that.
I don't know much about the sisters, but here it goes. First off is Sister Kindred who is older and smarter about missionary stuff than all of us. She's been here longer than us and her insights are awesome when she speaks. She's in a trio with a Sister Black, and Sister Krall. Sister Black is good at singing and yodeling. She also has the deepest and coolest spiritual questions out of all of us.
Sister Krall is quiet and a more gentle soul than the rest of us and that's all I really know about her. The other two are Sister Mecham and Sister Eichelberger. Sister Mecham does all of the artsy things ever and is a black belt in Indonesian kung fu, so she could probably beat us all up if she wanted to. Sister Eichelberger is usually pretty quiet too but she definitely has a steadfast personality in there somewhere.
Altogether my district rules and will all probably be famous someday. Or rulers of the earth. Either way.
I had a lot more time to write today because laundry is taking a while and I have a cold so I'm moving slower. Which is fine. That's what p day is for. Sorry again if the emails were choppy. There has been a lot going on and I don't know if I got everything important down.
I'm super eager to get out of here. The mtc is cool and all (even though some days are like highschool) but I want to be in the blazing deserts and serve already. My testimony is only getting more strengthened and powerful the more I'm' out here.
James 2:17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead being alone.
18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.
19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou does well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?
I love this scripture. I love work and I know that the principles of faith and work are tied close together. The more you work at your faith the greater the faith shall be. If you need the spirit in your life or in your life again, then you have to work for it. But I know that it is easily worth it. Line upon line precept upon precept you will be strengthened and blessed in the very choice ways that our Heavenly Father desires you to be blessed with. This is my testimony. I love you all and I hope you never forget who you are. A son or daughter of God, Our Heavenly Father.
Much Love and Hope
-Elder Moore
Here are some pictures. Including the letter from the sisters.
Hello Friends and Family!
In exactly a week I ship off to Vegas to party it up for 2 years! (Sorta)
Since last week I've had a few cool things happen. I gave my first priesthood blessing. I don't remember what I said so it must have been good. The spirit was strong then. Last Wednesday my companion and I had a rough TRC lesson and that day was a bit more challenging. I was outside and I said a prayer asking heavenly father if I did anything wrong or what the problem was. After I said amen I got this feeling of comfort. I felt a spiritual hug and the affirmation that I was doing the right things. And then the BYU bell rang. Every night it plays "All is Well". I cried. It was glorious.
The rest of the TRC lessons went very well. On the last day she almost cried and was super emotional because she loved the lessons and she definitely felt the spirit.
This week we got two new TRCs. One is an older lady who is going to be a challenge. I thought she was cool but she has deep philosophical and religious questions that are tough to answer. Then the other was a college student who I'm pretty sure just needs to be baptized. Or is a member. Either way.
Last Tuesday we had Dallin H. Oaks speak at the MTC so that was cool. Powerful stuff.
My companion and I haven't killed each other so I'd say we're doing pretty well. The District as a whole is doing well. The sisters made the Elders a cute little note last week and so we gave them some origami thing with all of our favorite scriptures written on it. We also have a list of goals that we are trying to follow. Like be more reverent, show more love and charity, pray for the spirit every day, that kind of thing.
A few funny things happened in the dorm. One of the Elders in my room was able to put his shoes on and then wear my shoes over them. He looked like he had clown feet. I also apparently speak with a Scottish accent really well. So my roommates always ask me to say something in a Scottish accent. I didn't think it was that good but apparently it is.
I'm not going to lie today was probably the toughest day ever at the MTC. All morning I had to listen to my companion and fellow elders talk about Anime and Twenty one pilots in the breakfast line. It was easily the greatest test of patience the Lord has ever committed upon me.
I guess I could tell you guys about the Elders and Sisters in my district. At least a little. My companion Elder Lu is from Boise. He's also the first American and missionary in his family, which is from China. He's good with computer stuff and likes video games. He's also ridiculously organized. In a good way probably. In lessons we balance each other out because he's got the words and facts and I jump in at questions, to share scriptures or to bear my testimony. It is an interesting dynamic.
One of the Elders named Elder Graves is stupidly smart and will probably rule the world someday. He's been writing a book and he knows all about engineering and ww2 stuff.
Another Elder Elder Day is a flutist and is apparently super good at it. He's also good emotional support for the Elders who miss their girlfriends. He pillow talks a lot with the other elders. Not with me thankfully. Another is Elder Waddoups. He's a sponsored snowmobile rider from Blackfoot. Also talks loudly and often. Very Idaho sportsman.
Another is Elder Hubbell. He's a talker. He loves Disney stuff and Marvel comics and he'll argue you to death over either. Also kind of a treehugger but I'll let that slide. We have an Elder Jacobs from Alberta Canada. He's about as tall as I am. He is loud, and he'll tell you exactly what he's thinking. Usually about something stupid you've done or how much he hates soccer. It makes us all laugh. He's in a trio with Elder Anderson and an Elder Linford. Anderson is from Texas and loves BBQ. He's the kind of guy who you would see as an ag teacher at a high school. Which is what he's gonna be. Elder Linford is super good at drawing comic style art. The kind you'd see in the Saturday or Sunday morning cartoons He also does a ton of pull ups everyday. The last two elders are Elder Preece and Scoffield. Preece is going to be a college baseball pitcher at some university in Virginia. He's fluent in sign language and is really easy to get along with. Elder Scoffield is a smart guy and he loves quoting movies. He's super good and into soccer. He wants to be a voice actor and I can totally see that.
I don't know much about the sisters, but here it goes. First off is Sister Kindred who is older and smarter about missionary stuff than all of us. She's been here longer than us and her insights are awesome when she speaks. She's in a trio with a Sister Black, and Sister Krall. Sister Black is good at singing and yodeling. She also has the deepest and coolest spiritual questions out of all of us.
Sister Krall is quiet and a more gentle soul than the rest of us and that's all I really know about her. The other two are Sister Mecham and Sister Eichelberger. Sister Mecham does all of the artsy things ever and is a black belt in Indonesian kung fu, so she could probably beat us all up if she wanted to. Sister Eichelberger is usually pretty quiet too but she definitely has a steadfast personality in there somewhere.
Altogether my district rules and will all probably be famous someday. Or rulers of the earth. Either way.
I had a lot more time to write today because laundry is taking a while and I have a cold so I'm moving slower. Which is fine. That's what p day is for. Sorry again if the emails were choppy. There has been a lot going on and I don't know if I got everything important down.
I'm super eager to get out of here. The mtc is cool and all (even though some days are like highschool) but I want to be in the blazing deserts and serve already. My testimony is only getting more strengthened and powerful the more I'm' out here.
James 2:17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead being alone.
18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.
19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou does well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?
I love this scripture. I love work and I know that the principles of faith and work are tied close together. The more you work at your faith the greater the faith shall be. If you need the spirit in your life or in your life again, then you have to work for it. But I know that it is easily worth it. Line upon line precept upon precept you will be strengthened and blessed in the very choice ways that our Heavenly Father desires you to be blessed with. This is my testimony. I love you all and I hope you never forget who you are. A son or daughter of God, Our Heavenly Father.
Much Love and Hope
-Elder Moore
Here are some pictures. Including the letter from the sisters.
September 5th, 2017 (First E-mail!)
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| Dropping Elder Moore off at the MTC! Not goodbye--just see you later! |
Hello Friends and Family!
The days have flown by and so my email might be a bit choppy! Also today is p day for me so I won't reply until Tuesdays every week.
The mtc has been pretty cool actually. At first it was surreal and every day feels like Sunday (except for today) so that has been interesting. My district is probably the coolest district. My companion is Elder Lu from Boise. We get along pretty well because we are both on the quite side (mostly).
Oh and speaking of my district on Day 2 I was called as the District leader. That is exactly what I needed though. What a blessing. When summed up, my district is full of successful people who are super talented and are going places. Successful places. Being the DL has helped me get acquainted and friendly with them all so that's been awesome. Sunday was interesting because we had meetings similar to sacrament about every hour. At the end we got to choose an LDS film to watch. My companion and I watched the sequel to Meet the Mormons. The first family was from Vegas so I got pumped to see the desert wasteland I'll get to serve in! They also have lots of food there. Win win for me.
Yesterday we got TRCs which are basically training investigators. Some of them are acting members and some are actual investigators. I'm almost positive that the one me and Elder Lu got was an actual investigator. The spirit was strong and incredible when we taught. Elder Lu said I was on fire in there and I admit that I only remember half of the stuff I said. The spirit is real and powerful if you will but listen to its promptings. When we committed to our TRC to read the Book of Mormon and pray about it, and she said yes, it was the best feeling ever. When we left back to our room we were so pumped for our next meeting with her. Shouts for joy did indeed insure.
I read all of your emails today and sorry if I didn't answer all of your questions or reply specifically to you. I figured one big email would suffice. I'm glad that things are going well for all of you. I am very happy for the good people you are too. even the smallest things I read brought a smile to my face. I'm one of the only Elders who isn't homesick but I love hearing from you all!
Friends and Family, Our Father in Heaven loves each and every one of us and he is eager to bless all of you if you will but hearken to his words. You are never too bad or too kneed deep in sins and sorrows for the Atonement and the love of God. I know this to be true and I know that trust in God is trust well spent. He does not fail.
I love you all! Good Luck and God speed!
-Elder Moore
PS
Thanks for the jerky. My fellow elders and I appreciate it!
PPS
Sorry for the misspellings and errors. Touchscreen keyboards and autocorrect are the worst.
The Call
After a lifetime of preparation, Porter submitted his papers to be considered for and assigned to an LDS mission. In this age of technology, the ability to check the status of his call online was both exciting and nerve wracking. His family waited anxiously for the mass text from mom saying that his call had arrived in the mail.
There are many mission destinations, but the final poll simply asked-- domestic or foreign? We cast our votes via group text and waited.
On Thursday, July 13th, 2017 he received the much anticipated, signature, white envelope. That evening, immediate family gathered to celebrate his call to serve.
You can watch him read it here:
Prior to reading his call aloud, he read the call for himself and exclaimed that he was surprised, but that it felt right. His family can all agree that the call felt right. A strong sense of peace was shared by all who were there.
The news was shared by phone, text, video and social media with extended family and friends.
With only 6 weeks until he was to report to the MTC, there was much to be done to prepare!
As Elder Moore's mom is known to say: Las Vegas or Bust!
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