"And we have entered into their houses and taught them, and we have taught them in their streets; yea, and we have taught them upon their hills; and we have also entered into their [churches] and their [bars] and taught them..."
This week, as all weeks are for miracle-watchers, was full of them.
BAPTISM! A young worldly youth of 16 years went to church for the first time last Sunday with his recently-baptized friend, read and prayed about the Book of Mormon, and felt that it was true. After this simple but powerful answer from God, he was willing to accept all the commandments of God, repent of his sins, and be baptized by one who holds the Priesthood of God (his friend).
The Book of Mormon is the missionary's greatest tool in teaching and conversion, wisest friend in time of need, and most powerful weapon against the enemy.
This week, we taught a young man inside his church (this isn't actually recommended...but he lives in the church. He invited us in). We were also summoned to talk to the pastor of another denomination in his office -- we're teaching and baptizing some of his members. Fortunately he didn't want to bash Bibles, he just wanted to make friends. We used several scriptures from the Book of Mormon in our relaxed discussion with him, and he was very impressed. He asked for a signed copy.
Another day this week, we were passing a little open bar (probably the only things here that are more frequent than churches are bars. But I'm still not sure who wins) when a well-dressed man called us from inside. Usually we would NEVER stop when a man calls from a bar, but this time was different: "Excuse me," he asked politely, "is that book a Bible, or another book?" He was asking about the Book of Mormon -- this month President Hart asked us to walk with the Book in hand. We stopped and gave a super-quick summary of what the Book of Mormon was. "How much are you asking for it? I love to read," he said, pulling out his wallet. NO! we said. It's free. Learning that he lived in the neighboring city, we told him we'd pass his name and number to the missionaries there, and they would give him a Book of Mormon. "But...is there any way I could get one now?" he said. We were touched by his earnest desire. We knew he was feeling something different about us and about our message, and the importance of the ancient record we held in our hands. We handed him a copy, bore our testimonies, and challenged him to be baptized on the 29th of September if he felt from God that it was true.
He accepted.
The Church is true, the Book of Mormon is the word of God, and everyone needs to know it.
TRANSFERS -- I have a new companion, Sister Kalamafoni!! Her parents are from Tonga! I love Abrantes! I will work like never before this transfer, I love the mission!
Sister Petty
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