Double the Fun...Double the Blessings

Querida Familia and Amigos,

The absolute highlight of the week and the very reason that we are serving as missionaries, was the joy of bringing two beautiful souls to the waters of baptism.  Our determined and faithful missionaries, Elders Jones and Christensen led them to a place of faith and knowledge so that they would be fully prepared to make this sacred covenant.  Betty, who is about our age and a grandmother, joined the branch in La Seu; while Ramon, a gentle, middle-aged man, who has recently lost most of his sight, joined our group in Andorra.  Many members attended the services held at the Hotel Dolcet spa pool to witness the baptisms and lend support to our newest family members. "And if it so be that you should ladbor all you days in crying repentence unto this people, and bring, save one soul unto me, how great shall be your joy with him in the kingdom of our Father!" (D&C 18:15) We were doubly-blessed and bubbling over with happiness.

Betty with Elder and Hermana Fowers

Rejoicing Together
Elder Christenses, Ramon, Betty and Elder Jones

Halloween is a pretty big holiday here in Spain.  Our youth asked if they could organize and sponsor a Halloween party on Tuesday evening for the branch.  They printed the invitations, planned the menu, decorated the hall, organized the games and invited their friends.  We were so proud of them for initiating the activity on their own and following through on the details.  Keeping with Spanish-standard-time, the fiesta started about an hour late, but otherwise was a smashing success with several non-member friends in attendance.

Our Youth Organizers

Farmer Fowers and his buddy Jose Luis

Scary group of Halloween Monsters

I am certain that you have heard much in the news about the political situation here in Spain.  A group of Catalonians politicians are leading a charge to try to succeed from Spain.  This political posturing has been going on for decades and we see or know of very little concerning the real issues in our little corner of Spain.  There are lots of flags flying from the balconies, some of which are “for” and others “against” the succession, but it has not affected our work or our purpose. The big winners in this political standoff are the flag makers.

Perfect Picture of Contrasting Opinions:
Top Balcony, Catalonian Flag with Spain Flag Below

We did get a chance to sneak away for a few hours on preparation day this week with our Elders.  We treated them to a ride on the Tobotronc Alpine Slide and they had a blast on the wild ride.  We went from there to the Canillo Overlook.  The sun was shining and the view was crystal clear for miles and miles.  When you stand on top of one of these massive mountains you become so aware of your own nothingness in the bigger scheme of things.  I always stand in wonder of the beauties created by God’s hand. 

Ready to Ride!

My Elders Overlooking Canillo Valley

Long ways down.

We were delighted to spend a couple of hours with Jaime this week and find out more about his life and his journey.  He tells of becoming a soccer star as a young boy of 12 years.  He was farmed out to a junior league and left his family behind to be trained to become a professional soccer player.  He has played in Switzerland, Italy and was recently pickup up by Andorra after recovery from a knee injury.  He pretty much had to raise himself, but through all the years he has stayed true to his standards.  When his has trouble sleeping, he often listens to Primary Songs and Hymns because they bring happy memories of his family who are all faithful members.  He was so very happy to have found the church again and is preparing to receive the Priesthood.  He couldn't wait to send this picture to his Mom.

Jaime, so happy to have found the church.

We got lost in this secret garden in Ordino this week while tracking down a lead on a lost member. The fall colors are so beautiful and this tiny park was a picture of tranquility.

Late blooming Roses.

...with Book of Mormon in hand.

Elder here...Today I was asked to confirm both Bette and Ramon members of the church and bestow the Gift of the Holy Ghost.  A very special feeling attended me at both confirmations.  I know some of their personal challenges and problems.  Bette has been on her own since age 14 but has never lost hope in finding God nor believing in our Savior. Ramon woke up one morning several years ago to find himself partially blind, no explanation.  Even with his limited sight Ramon could see that many religions were false so he continued to seek something better. Today I blessed him that the Holy Ghost would help him see the way to his ultimate salvation.  Both of these new converts were found by our missionaries knocking on doors and talking to everybody in the street, on buses and at the market. How many more like Bette and Ramon are searching for the truth?  May we hasten the work!

Elder and Hermana Fowers