Monday, July 22, 2013

Well this is it; the mission has finally come to an end. I feel just the same as I did when I was leaving. I knew that I had to go however at the same time I didn’t want to. The feelings are the same, I don’t want to go but I know it’s time. This chapter of my life has come to an end and I wouldn’t be able to keep progressing if I stayed here. A new chapter is about to start with new obstacles and trial ahead. But I have an advantage, I have learned so much here in the mission. So many things that I will be able to apply in the "real world". I’m excited but nervous. I also know that with the lord’s help anything is possible. He is a god of miracles, that’s what I have learned these last couple weeks working with Rosa our convert who was baptized this past Saturday.
    I just wanted to share this miracle with you all before my time here has run out. Elder Wagner and I met Rosa our first week here in San Bartolo area Atoyac. She is the sister of a member here and while visiting the member we just "happened" to bump into each other. The second lesson we had with Rosa we were lead by the spirit and placed a baptism date with her. After the lesson when we were alone with her brother who’s a member and after asking him what he thought he told us, "she won’t get baptized; she’s been listening to the missionary's for a very long time. She’s stubborn." When we got home that night I decided that I would not doubt and if I didn’t doubt that she would be baptized. As the days went by we discovered that Rosa had a lot of questions, luckily with the help of her family we were able to answer each and every one f them. We felt inspired to teach her about fasting for an answer so we did. Rosa had enough faith that she fasted, as well as read in the book of Mormon, and prayed nightly. I’m not going to lie there were a couple lessons that when we left I started to doubt. However, the lord answered our prayers and we were able to teach her according to her needs. He answered our prayers. The day of her interview came and she passed. When she did her brother came up to us and said, "no munches¡ ¿mi hermana se va a bautizar?" meaning no way, is my sister really going to get baptized? We said yea and he then asked, "How did you do it?" to be honest we didn’t do anything; all we did was help her recognize the spirit answering her questions and doubts. Even after the baptism Saturday we had people asking how we did it. They said we baptized a rock because she was so hard. Once again we just laughed saying "we didn’t do anything, it was the spirit". 
    Rosa has been one of the funniest people to teach. I have really learned the importance to follow the spirit in lessons to answer their questions that investigators have. God hears and answers each and every one of our prayers. Some times we have to wait for an answer or we might even have to ask again but he will answer when he knows were ready. 

   I love the mission and I'm sad that’s its over. I’m also excited to start another chapter in my life and to learn even more. One last time I just want to bear my testimony. I know that the church is true. I know that if we read study and pray over the scriptures that we will find hidden treasures and knowledge. What a blessing it is to have all these tools to help us grow closer to Christ. I love the people here and I will miss them dearly. This is the true church I know it. 


  I’m excited to see you all. I hope that I grew a little taller here and not shorter ha-ha. I look forward to seeing you all very shortly.
Love Elder Hope!   

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

¡A SU MECHA!
    Wow, to be honest I dont even know where to start.... I figure that this might be my last e-mail so I'll try to make it a good one. First off I'm glad that your all excited that I'm coming home because I still diont think that it has hit me yet.... There have been a couple times where all of the sudden I think to myself and say, "wow.... Im going home" It usually comes with a sick feeling in my stomach. I really don't know what to expect when I get home, I can barely remember what life was like when I was back home  it mainly seems like a dream. I guess you could say Im getting nervous. The best way to describe it is the "bitter sweet feeling" the same feeling I had when I left. Just keep me busy when I get home because I'm pretty sure its not going to hit me untill I get home that the mission has Finaly came to an end so dont mow the law this week so that when I get home I can work a little. OK enough about that.
    This has been another pretty good day/week. I have really enjoyed my time here in this area (Atoyac). The members here have been really supportive and I feel like I was able to help the area out quite a bit. When me and my comp got here there was nothing, however with a little help from the lord we now have 5 people with baptism dates and a couple more that will have one soon. To be completely honest I was a little bitter that they put me in a new area with only 4 weeks left in the mission. HOWEVER I have learned things in this area and with my comp Elder Wagner that I know I never would have learned in my old area. I have a firm testimony that the lord knows each and everyone of us better than we know ourselves and he knows whats best for us even when we dont understand and ask "why?". All we have to do is make best of the situation were in and believe. I know that when we do he will protect us and help us learn and grow to what he knows we can become.
   The other day I had a pretty good experience. The other night I received a phone call from a member here in our ward thats received his mission call. His name is Carlos and he has become a pretty good friend. He always ask me about the mission and things he will need and what to do. Sadly his father walked out on him and his family years ago. Anyways He said " Elder Hope, I have a favor to ask you". (people have asked some pretty weird favors here so I was pretty nervous to ask what). After asking what it was he said, "tonight I will be receiving the Melchizedek Priesthood and I want you to ordain me".  I've never ordained anyone to the office of an Elder so to be honest I was kind of nervous but I said yes. I would love to say I did it perfectly and that everything went to plan but then I would be lying. I had to do it twice but it was a great learning experience. I really did feel honored that out of all the people he would ask me. Later that night he sent me a message thanking me and said that "the words of the blessing were exactly what he needed to hear". I love the spirit, it truly will put "the words in your mouth" if you let him.
    This morning president let me and one of my friends Elder Graves go to the centro to buy some souvenirs so dont worry I was able to buy a couple cool little things. It was pretty fun and while there we had a funny experience. Some random guy came running up to us saying, "are you guys american? Do you speak English?" Haha we then answered and said yes we do. Our name tags must have grabbed his attention because he look at them and then said with relief in his voice,"Awhh good! your mormones!". He then explained to us he was lost trying to look for a hotel where he left his wife. He said that he had been lost for about three hours and not being able to speak spanish could find the help he needed to get back to his wife. (He's about 30 years old from Texas). I believed him because he was sweating pretty good and seemed quite worried. We didnt know where his hotel was but we decided to buy him a water and to give him 30 pesos so that he could take a taxi right to the hotel. We asked him why he was here and he told us he's an archaeologist set out to prove that Jesus came to the Americas after his Resurrection. Elder Graves and I looked at each other with a puzzled face. Long story short we were able to talk to him a little about the book of mormon and explained its history before we departed. One day I think he'll be baptized.
    Well this is a really long message so I had better go. Im not sure If I will be able to write next week but I think I will. I just dont want to except the fact that this might be my last email.
I love you all so very much and Im deeply grateful for all of the support and prayers you have given me. This really is the true church I know it.
Until next time, Love Elder Hope 

Monday, July 8, 2013

Bueno!
   Well, what can I say once again another week has gone bye and like always it went fast! I’m glad to hear that all is going well back at home. It sounds like you all had a good Fourth of July. I’m glad you’re getting the T/A up and going so that when I get home it’ll be warmed up for me! ha-ha our 4th included us listening to the Mormon Tabernacle choir singing American songs and that’s about it. Guess I have to wait another year to blow some fireworks up :(
   This was a pretty good week; we had a couple funny experiences. One of which has to do with my comp. The other day we were eating some tacos in the street and I noticed that my comp was eating quite a bit of salsa, salsa Verde. It isn’t too hot or spicy but I was impressed. There just so happened to be another salsa there called habanero. It’s one of the hottest chilies here in Mexico. (I feel bad for what I did and I have repented just so you all know) So I decided to invite him to try it. I gave him a little piece and he started to eat it. The more you chew habanero the hotter it gets and man my comp was chewing away! Long story short to try to doze the fire in his mouth he downed his and my coke. Shortly after he threw up. It was pretty funny, I felt really bad afterwards but he was a champ about it.  
   The work here in the area is going well. This last week we were able to find some pretty cool families. One of which even accepted a fecha (baptism date). Two of our investigators were able to come to church with us this week which was awesome considering the fact that our church building is about 40 mins away in bus. It doesn't cost too much but it can get expensive when a family of 5 wants to go but doesn’t have enough money to go and come back. One of the people were teaching is named Manuel. Manuel is about 40 and has cancer. Due to his sickness he’s unable to work so his wife makes and sells tortillas to support their family. Their 15 year old daughter also works so the whole family can eat. It’s a rough. Once again were blessed. 
   We were able to have quite a few good lessons here this week and I would love to tell you all about them but there never is enough time.    I guess you’ll just have to wait a couple weeks. 
   I’m really enjoying the little time I have left, my comp is a pretty cool Elder and the members here area really supportive which helps a lot. I had better get going but I want to let you all know how much I love each and every one of you. Have a great week and I’ll talk to you next week, 
Love Elder Hope!

Tuesday, July 2, 2013

New Companion Elder Wagner

Hey!
    What up family? From the looks and sounds of it everyone had a pretty good time camping this weekend. Thanks for sending the pics they were fun to see.
   Well this has been a pretty crazy week for me. Like I said last week they changed me ha-ha. Right now I’m in an area called Atoyac; it’s here in the city NEAR to one of my older areas but not in it. My new comp is Elder Wagner, he’s super Verde (green) but he’s a good kid. He’s from Utah but about a year ago he moved to Texas and lives in a place Laredo towards the bottom of Texas. It’s been fun to get to know him a little better and I’m shocked from all of the news he’s told me about what has changed back at home. His dad is actually Mexican... kind of, he grew up in the colonies in Chiwouwa soo that’s interesting. 
   The first couple days here in our area were interesting, we didn’t know anything about our area so we've been working a lot to get to know the members and find the few investigators that the other elders were teaching. It wasn’t too hard, there’s only like 2... So it looks like well be planting a lot of seed which is also pretty cool and exciting. The area is pretty big. We have about 3 or 4 colonies in our area which are basically little pueblos. It takes us 30 mins by bus to get to our area which makes it hard for our investigators to get there especially when they don’t have money for the bus ride. 
   There have been a couple members here that have really helped us out in the way of showing us where the other members live and how to get to places so were grateful for that. OH also the airport is in my area so I’m pretty sure they put me here so in a couple weeks I can drive myself to the air port ha-ha but it’s all right. I think seeing the air planes make’s my comp more Trunkey than me.  
   We were able to find a couple cool people this week so that’s good. I would tell you guys about them buuutt I have to send some things to the offices so It will have to wait until next week. 
I love you all so very much and like I have said these past two years, I pray for you daily.
Until next week,
Con Amor Elder Hope

Tuesday, June 25, 2013


Hey family this is going to be really short..

Remember how I told you all that we were going to have changes? Do you also remember how I said that I was probably going to stay? Well like I said changes are pretty unpredictable! Turns out I’m leaving. I’m being changes to an area called Atoyac in the city of Oaxaca. It will nice to get back to the city of Oaxaca, after all I haven't been there for about 10 or 11 months. 

When Elder Johnson came here he also told president to make all the zone leaders that are going home trainers. Well I fall under that category so I’m now going to be training a gringo. It’ll be interesting to get to know all the new members and a new area in 4 weeks but I’m going to do the best that I can. It’ll be fun. 

Well I had better go I still have to help all the other elders get to the bus station and all that. I’ll try to let you know what else goes down if I get the chance too but if not I’ll talk to you all next week.

Love Elder Hope 

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

A SU MECHA
   Wow your right ha-ha this was a pretty crazy week as far as trying to get everything done with school and what not. Thanks for looking for the info I’m not sure If I’ll get on and look for classes or just wait until I get home.... I felt really relaxed after I talked to mom and I kind of like not having to worry about it.... I think I’ll keep a focused a little bit better if I just wait but who knows I might look at a couple classes or two. Mom it was good hearing your voz (voice). 
    Also dad Happy Fathers day! Hope it was a great day.
    Well this week has gone by super doper fast; I can’t believe that I only have a couple more weeks here in the mission. To be honest it still hasn’t hit me but I think that’s a good thing. I’m just going to keep working hard and enjoy every minute of it. Also this Sunday we have changes. I’ll be really surprised if I get changed I’m pretty sure I won’t but changes are unpredictable and just about anything can happen. I have a weird feeling my comp will be leaving even though he just got here but we’ll see what happens.      
    This week was pretty awesome with Elder Johnson. His wife is actually from Sugar Salem and when I told her I was from Rexburg she freaked out and I thought she was going to hug me ha-ha it was kind of funny. Anyways the meetings went really well and it was great being able to hear Elder Johnson. He’s a good guy and speaks amazing Spanish. He really motivated me to keep speaking Spanish even after the mission; it really is a blessing to learn another language. I’m planning on taking some Spanish classes when I get home that way I won’t forget what I have learned. My comp and I were pretty busy setting everything up for President and Elder Johnson Thursday morning. Seats, water, mics, you name it and we had it. President called us a couple of times making sure we had everything ready ha-ha we could Tell he himself was a little nervous. I left both meetings we had with Elder Johnson edified and were trying to make sure all the Elders are applying what they learned. 
    Quick update, I’m not sure if you remember Virginia our investigator or not but as of now she has a baptism date set for this Saturday. She always prayers for you guys so keep her in your prayers so that everything goes well and that this Saturday she will be able to enter into the waters of baptism. 
    Well I’m glad to hear that everyone is doing good back at home and I hope that you all have a good week. Study the Scriptures every day and I promise all you will feel better throughout the day. I love you all so much and I’ll talk to you soon.
 Con Amor, 
ELDER HOPE

Thursday, June 13, 2013

Wow!
   Wow like always this week has gone bye really fast, I feel like the days are going bye faster and faster each day. This was another pretty good week as far as the work goes. Where finding a lot of new people to teach which is good and we also have a couple people lined up for baptism which is great. If all goes well we should have a couple baptisms!
    We had interviews here in our zone this last Saturday everything went great and I had a good time talking to President. While President interviewed the Elders, I helped the assistants train all the other Elders to learn how to be future leaders. They actually told me right before that I was to help so that was a surprise to me but in the end everything went well. I didn’t sleep to well these last couple night because the assistants stayed with us and I gave up my bed so they could sleep in it. I ended up sleeping in my hammock. It was two long and hot nights but Ill survive. 
   Funny story, the other day we were teaching a family under their tree when all of the sudden a squirrel fell out of nowhere and almost hit one of the member’s right in the head. It came out of nowhere! It also fell pretty far but it got back up and ran away. It was pretty funny. 
   I also decided to take a couple pills the other day that kill all the parasites that I might be caring around such as worms and all that fun stuff. I plan on doing it again in a couple weeks; I don't want to bring anything like that home with me. 
   This week will be pretty cool like I said last week Elder Johnson will be here and I’ll get to have two meetings with him so it should be pretty interesting! I’ll let you know how it goes.
   I started to read my first journal that I have from the mission. I must admit it’s been pretty fun looking back and remember all the fun little experiences. I’m also surprised at how much I have changed. I must of been pretty home sick at first because I always wrote, "I miss my family and I love them so much" ha-ha it’s still true but I’m over the whole home sickness. I’m just glad I have been faith full in writing in my journal because I’m really enjoying reading what I have accomplished here in the mission. Speaking of which, they sent my travel planes so I’ll forward that to you all. 
   I’m pretty nervous about the whole coming home, working, and going to school.... I’d rather stay here. 
 Any suggestions on classes to take? Teachers? How I should do my schedule? Josh, JC let me know what you think would be best. 
I had better go I have to write president. Tell Jim to hold on and to be safe. I’m praying for him and each and every one of you.
I love you all so very much have a great week!
Love Elder Hope

Wednesday, June 5, 2013

Buenos
Hey family what’s crackin? Well this has been another eventful week that’s for sure. I’m glad to hear that all is well back at home or at least for the most part. I hope Jim is doing ok at that he will be able to heal. As far as the weather goes it sounds like your being pretty blessed ha-ha it’s been pretty humid here and like I said the humidity kills!
I’m not sure if you heard about it or not but apparently on Wednesday there was supposed to be a hurricane hit here close to where I’m at and the mission was telling everyone to be super careful. It did rain for a couple of days but it wasn't anything to crazy and we were able to keep working.
I’m trying to think of something to say right now but my mind is coming up blank. This Sunday sister Dolores (my convert) got up and bore her testimony and thanked the missionary's. I felt really good knowing that I was able to help her in her quest to happiness. I don't know what’s going on here in our area but all of the sudden the members are all inviting us over to eat, it’s great! There really helping us out in the work also.
In the upcoming week on the 13th Elder Johnson, the area President will be visiting us here in Oaxaca. It should be pretty cool, all the missionary's here in Juchitan will be there in the morning but then in the afternoon I get to go back and have a meeting with him and the stake leaders so it should be pretty fun!
I know that this is super short but for some reason I can’t think of anything to write.... I’m doing well, getting a little fat but that’s alright I have plans to hit up the gym here in a few months ha. My new comp is a pretty good guy. I just wanted to let you all know that I love you all and I hope that you all have a great week. If there is anything that I can do to help you just let me know. Until next week, Love Elder Hope

Tuesday, May 28, 2013


Bueno!

    Well well so JC has finally graduated, FELICIDADES MI HERMANITA! (Congrats little sister) how do you feel? That sweet that you ended with honors I think you’re the only one in the family who did ha-ha. The question is, now what are you going to do?

     It sounds like everyone had a pretty busy weekend. I’m just glad that you all had fun and everything worked out ok. Thanks for the pics I really enjoyed them. 

   This was also a pretty busy week for me. I was in four different meeting this week and it’s safe to say that I’m pretty sick of meetings now ha-ha jk. One of them was with president, he taught us a couple new things such as how to help elders out that have problems with their comps and whatever problem they might have. It was pretty interesting. Whenever we have a meeting with president we then have to go and share all that we learned with the zone so that’s what we did. For the most part it went fairly well, a couple elders in our zone really don’t understand or recognize that there in the mission and that its times to grow up but then again no one is perfect. 

   Speaking about the older lady, Virginia is doing well. Actually she has accepted a baptism date for the 15 of June so we’re really excited for her. She is a great lady and she always gives us a can of juice when we get to her house because she feels bad that were far away from our family and homes. She’s going to be great member. Were actually going to go visit her later on today, I’ll tell her you all say hi. 

   This Sunday was pretty cool; an area 70 showed up and gave a super good talk about the gospel of Jesus Christ. He said a couple of things that I really liked, one was "when you’re alone God sees exactly who we are" and then he also said that our life here on the earth is like school. Then he asked the question how are your grades going, are they good enough to get you back to his presence? Hopefully that all made sense. 

    Well I have to send some things so I better get going, but I’m glad to hear that everyone is doing well. I hope that you all have a great week. Until next time,

ELDER HOPE 

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Hola!
Well, well another week has come and gone, and it went by fast. I was pretty busy this week with the divisions that we went on but in the end it all went good and I had a fun time getting to know a couple of the elders in my zone a little better.
I still don’t know who my new comp will be they will probably tell me tonight, I just hope his cool. Right now I’m here with elder Monson. I think he’s pretty sad and nervous about what’s going to happen these next couple days. It has been really interesting for me also. I have never "killed" (meaning I’ve never been with an elder who was going home) so It been interesting. I think it would have been better for someone who still has a little time left and not someone who is also going home soon ha-ha but oh well.
It’s been hard to sleep her at nights due to the heat but I think I’m getting used to it. It’s usually about 85-90 degrees at night plus humidity so it’s kind of warm.
We had a pretty cool experience this last week with a lady that we met. A while back we were contacted by a man claiming to be an English teacher. Long story short after talking with him for a bit we gave him our number and left. A couple weeks have passed by since then, however the other day he called us. He didn’t really want to talk to us but he gave us the name of his friend that did. Saturday we went to check it out. It turns out to be an older lady named Virginia about 65 years old. We talked to her for a Little bit Saturday night and then invited her to church the next day we even offered to pass by for her. She accepted and we left.
Sunday we passed by her house and to our surprise she was all ready to go. We were pretty shocked. This little older lady has a lot of faith and she’s a perfect example of showing it. We really only talked to her for about 30 min. and she agreed to come to our services. She loved the services and we have a return appointment to visit her. I’ll keep you posted on what happens.
Well had better wrap this up my comp wants to say goodbye to some people. But I just want to let you all know once again that I love you all and hope you’re all doing well. Let me know if there is anything I can do for you guys.
Love Elder Hope

Monday, April 29, 2013


Que Onda?

   What’s up family sounds like everyone is doing well? I have a couple little things that I should probably tell you before I give you all the low down on my week.

First off I was looking at my driver’s license and I discovered that it expired back when I turned 21, not sure if you’re aware of that or not but just so you know. I don't really want to take the driving test again when I get home, after living here for 2 years I’m afraid some of their driving habits might have rubbed off and I’m about 100% sure they won’t pass me if I have to take it when I get home. 

Second I found my debit card so forget my comment I mad last week. 

   Alright, this was another busy week so I’ll just give yawl a brief low down. This week I went to a little pueblo called Comitacillo to do divisions with an elder who is kind of struggling. Long story short everything went well, I’m not the best elder and I know I still have a TON to learn but I was able to give him a little advice on how to work a little more efficiently and also with the members. As we were visiting a member we ended up cleaning and plucking chickens. That was a first. I’m not going to lie it smelt bad. I’ll send you a pic.

   The other day I had a testimony builder. We were asked to give a presentation to all the elders here in our Zone along with their missionary leaders on "What their purpose is". My comp knew about this a while ago but remembered the night before. Long story short I got a little nervous and felt really unprepared. Minutes before the meeting I said a prayer asking the lord to help us. Long story short everything went really well, and we had a good conversation for about an hour on how we can improve the missionary work here in Juchitan. He hears and answers our prayers of that I testify. 

     We also had a meeting with the stake president and all the bishops in the stake. He planched them for not giving the missionary's more references of people to teach (planched means burned). Were excited to see what happens. 

    This Sunday was neat because Santiago received the priesthood. It’s amazing how much I have seen them change in such a short amount of time, him and his wife, Lourdes are so much more happier. You can see it in their faces. I'm amazed. 

We put the goal for them to go to the temple and they accepted, there great people.

    I know this might be short and might not make sense but there’s so much to do ha-ha. I’ll have to let you know the plans next week on when we will be calling home ight. I love you all so very much and thanks for your prayers I know they help!

Until next week, 

Elder Hope

 

Hey Family what’s up?

Congrats Jeff and Becky on the new baby! What’s her full name?

Dad hope everything goes well on your trip and that you’re able to travel safely, you’ll have to let me know how it goes.

This was a pretty crazy week, like I said last Monday we went to Oaxaca for a training that went well. President talked a lot about hoe to be more effective and how to plan our days and week more efficiently. It went well and I learned a lot. I’m still surprised on how much of this stuff I will be able to use when I get back home. The mission prepares you for a LOT of stuff.

Thursday was a great but busy day, we had a meeting with half of the zone here in Juhitan and shared with them all that we learned at the meeting we had in Oaxaca. As zone leaders we basically just pass all the information we receive from president to all the other elders. Thursday night we also had our baptism which went great! Other than Stefani, the girl I baptized freaked out when I dunked her so I had to do it again. The second time I dunked her I really had to fight her to go under. I know that this might not make any sense but it was a fun one. The next night we went over to her house to visit with the family she accused me of trying to drown her. She’s 9 years old. One day she’ll thank me ha-ha. But the parents are super happy and this Sunday we learned about temple marriage. I heard Lourdes (the mom) lean over to Santiago (the dad) and say we need to get married there. They are a sweet family. One of their little girls died when she was 2 so they love the idea that families can be together forever.

Friday we had another meeting and taught the other half of our zone out in Ixtepec which is 45 mins outside of Juchitan. It went well and I feel like the things we shared will help out the zone. My comp stayed out there in Ixtepec to do divisions with the DLS and I went back to my area with a fresh new gringo. It was a lot of fun and I had a good time working with a Verde.

P.S. On the other hand it might be possible that I miss placed my debit card... I haven't looked good yet so don't worry. I’m pretty sure it expired anyways but I’ve been good with my money throughout my mish and I really don’t need any so don’t worry. I’ll look for it today.

Well everything is going good here, Time is going by fast. My comp only has 4 weeks left in the mish so he’ll be going home soon.

I love you all so very much and I hope all is well back at home. Have a great week!

 

ELDER HOPE

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Hey!
Hola! What’s up family, wow once again this week has gone by pretty fast! Dad, thanks for the pics of Gracie’s Baptism everyone is looking pretty good. Gracie Congrats on your baptism!!!! I can’t believe how much you have grown up. I hope you always remember that day.
Well we also had a baptism! Daniel and Dolores were baptized Saturday. It went great and there were no problems which was awesome. Here in the mission the president has asked us to invite them members to do the ordinance of baptism so we had the bishop baptize Sister Dolores and were planning on the bishop baptizing Daniel also but a couple hours before the baptism we got a call from Dolores and her family saying that Daniel wanted me to baptize him. It was a great experience and I really enjoyed it. Sister Dolores grandson played a special song on his guitar right before the baptism which was awesome and truly invited the spirit. Sister Dolores husband also came to the baptism which was cool because at first he didn’t really want anything to do with the church so were hoping now that he has felt the spirit he will change.
This next Friday we should have another baptism, brother Santiago and his family which includes his wife and their daughter. We went with them last night and they seem pretty excited. They will be great members here in the church.
Tonight I will be heading to Oaxaca for a concilio or "council" with all the other Zone Leaders together with the president. I’m excited and I’m sure I’ll learn a lot. We leave at 11.35 pm and will get there at about 6.00am so it’s going to be a fun night..... Well come back that night and then teach the zone what we learned so it’s going to be fun.
Everything is going good here In Juchitan, It’s a little hot and humid so I’m sweating A LOT but I’ll get over it. Everyone here is telling me that next month will be worse so I’m really looking forward to that ha-ha. But for the most part I’m doing well.
I know that this is short but we have to get a bunch of papers from the other elders in the zone and take them with us to Oaxaca so I had better get going. But I just want you all to know that this is the true Church. You’re the best family there is!
Hope everyone has a great week and until next time,
Elder Hope

Tuesday, April 9, 2013


Hey family,

   

   Yo! How’s everyone doing? Sounds like you all have a pretty busy week planned. Conference was great! I loved Pres Monson talk; it was great along with all the other talks that were given. My comp, Elder Monson to be honest was not too sure how far down the line I’m sure he is. Whenever members ask he just says yes, he’s my grandpa. I always shake my head in agreement. So half the people here in Juchitan think his grandpa is the prophet. 

   This week went by super fast with conference and all that. We had five of our investigators show up which was great and they all loved the talks. This next week we should have two baptisms. Their name is Dolores and her grandson Daniel. Dolores is really cool and already calls herself a member of the church; she is one of those people the lord has prepared. I was shocked on how much everyone talked about missionary work. It’s great for us missionaries’! I hope the members realize their part in the lord’s work. 

   This week I actually went back to do divisions in my old area with my old comp who took my spot as D.L. It was sweet to get to go back after three days. I didn’t have the chance to say goodbye to any of our investigators or members so while we worked we passed by some of the members so I could say bye. The sister that we ate with that day was mad at me for the first 10 Mins because I never went and said goodbye. Actually when I walked into her door she hit me in the arm ha-ha but she got over it.  

   Tomorrow were going out to Ixtepec to go to a district meeting and see how everything is going out there. It’s about 45 mins from Juchitan. The members here are pretty nice. I still haven’t met all of them but I’m excited to be able to work here. We just got some new gringos here in the mission and we got some here in our zone so we have been making sure that they get used to Oaxaca and that everything is going good for them so that they stay animated. It’s the first group of Americans that we have got in the mission in over a year! Long time huh. 

   Well I’m glad to hear that everything is going well back at home, there is so much that I would like to tell you all but there’s just not enough time. I just want to let you all know how much I love living the gospel. It really does help people live a happier life. I hope you all have a good week, pray for the people here in Oaxaca because they pray for you.

Until next week,

ELDER HOPE

Tuesday, April 2, 2013

CHANGES!
   Well I forgot to tell you all the other week that we were going to have changes... I was pretty sure I was going to be staying in my area, Libertad. Well long story short I was wrong. Turns out there sending me a place called Ochxiclan or something thing like that.. Actually I’m here in my new area. It was a whole ten mins away from my old area. I’m still in the same Zone that I was before; actually I’m in charge of it! I guess Pres. wants me to finish off the mission strong and doesn’t want me to "die". I’m now a Zone Leader here in the Zone Juchitan Las Flores. My comp is the Giant, Elder Monson the one I sent photos of the other day he's 6 feet 8 inches tall or something like that. I’m really excited, but also a little nervous. I went from being in charge of 6 Elders to 24 so it was a little bit of a jump ha. I know that as long as I rely on the lord that he will bless me and help me. I’m excited because I know that I will learn a lot these last three changes. I’m also sure that I will end my mission here in Juchitan. 
   Well a lot went down this last week so I will try to fill you in as best as I can. This week was awesome, we had a baptism Sunday. His name is Gabby and he’s 11 years old. He is a really smart kid. He was a reference from the branch president who is his uncle. The baptism went great; Gabby got baptized with his 8 year old cousin Valentine. I would send you a pic but I don’t have my cable here with me so it will have to wait until next week. The baptism was in zapaespanol (half zapateco and half Spanish) nevertheless it well. Sunday we helped confirm him which was also a blessing. I love being part of the lord’s work it’s the best thing one can do. 
   As for the earth quake to be honest I didn’t feel it but they did call everyone to make sure everyone was ok and that everyone was ok. I’m glad to hear that everyone is ok. That’s good that the snows is gone so that you can all get out and get to work ha-ha.
   The other night president invited my comp and I as well as the ZLS to eat some Tlyudas which was a pretty good time and I got to know President a little better, (he thinks we all drive tractors instead of cars back at home). 
   We have spent all day at the bus station sending Elders to different parts of Oaxaca and we have to go back, so right now we’re going to go eat and then head back over there to send elder off and receive those that come so I had better get going. I love you all so very much and I hope that everything goes well back at home this week. 
   I LOVE YOU ALL SO VERY MUCH, I CAN SEE THE BLESSINGS from your prayers. Keep praying for the people here in Oaxaca because they all pray for you! 
Until next week,
ELDER HOPE  

Wednesday, March 27, 2013


Earthquake of 5.8 magnitude shakes Mexico City buildings


Alarms sounded in Mexico City and buildings reportedly swayed after an earthquake struck in Oaxaca. No injuries or damage have been reported yet.
MEXICO CITY — A 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck in Mexico Tuesday, centered six miles west of Pinotepa Nacional in Oaxaca, the U.S. Geological Survey reported.
The quake, which struck at 8:04 a.m. EDT, was 20.5 miles deep, the USGS said.
Earthquake alarms sounded in Mexico City, where buildings shook, according to a Reuters reporter. Some buildings were evacuated, but the state's mayor said on his Twitter account that there were no reports of damage.

Tuesday, March 26, 2013


WHATS UP!?

   Hey everyone how’s everything going back at home? Sounds like everyone is pretty busy with work or with school but that’s a good thing right? Also happy birthday Gracie and Jeff! I know I’m a couple days late for Gracie I hope she forgives me but I hope you had an awesome day! Tambien usted Jeff. 

   Alright so this was a pretty sweet week, first off we had a multi zone-conference here in the mission this last Thursday. It was pretty cool we listened to an area 70 named Elder Martinez. He spoke a lot on how to get references from members and investigators. It was interesting, he did a really good job explaining it and what not but I realized that I’m getting "old" in the mission now because everything he said I already knew... I hope that makes sense.

   It was interesting because President Leyva also told us that the church is launching a heavy campaign here about the Pascua, (Easter) here and there giving us permission to log into our face books accounts to like a page which tells the story of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ followed by a testimony of the prophet. So if you see that I get on face I’m not being disobedient..... ha-ha they told us to. I’m still not too sure what they want us to do but there giving us thirty mins today, Wednesday, and Friday to answer questions about what we believe about Pascua as members of the church. To be honest I don’t even know if I remember my password so if not oh well. 

   I also went back to Xadani this week to do a couple baptism interviews for the elders out there. It was a really cool experience. Another and her son were being interviewed, the mom speaks pretty good Spanish so that wasn’t a problem however, the kid who’s 11 doesn’t. Soo for the interview we had to invite a member to translate what I said in Spanish into zapateco. It was a really cool experience and all went well. I was able to go to their baptism Saturday morning which was a blessing. 

   The other day while we were teaching the restoration a bird pooped on me while my comp was sharing the first vision. I’m sure it was Satan trying to drive the spirit away ha-ha or just bad luck. 

   We still haven't found a house which is a bummer. But we’ll keep looking. Dad thanks for looking up those classes for me I wrote them down in my agenda so that when time comes I will be able to take the classes I need. THANKS! 

I had better get going but thanks so much family for all you guys do you’re the best!

Until next week, con Amor Elder Hope!

 

P.S. it’s 95 degrees here in Juchitan :)

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Shemodonulu!

That’s right I just dropped some Zapateco on you all. I can’t believe how fast this week has gone by (like always). First off I did have a good birthday, probably one of the best. Obviously it would have been better if you all were here but never the less it was great. The members here are awesome, I ate so much cake this week that it was ridicules. Tuesday a part member family invited us over to eat a little cake....  we ended up eating a lot! We got there and they gave us some pie which was supper good. Then they gave us a couple tortes’ (there basically sandwiches) and after that they gave us more pie! It was insane. They also gave me a tie and a little gift package filled with food. It was insane. We ended up taking a full pie home for our self’s. Sunday the sister we ate with also surprised us and gave us more cake! She said, “I know you already had your birthday but I bought you more cake” so we ate cake and arroz con leche which is also a desert. I don’t know why the members like me so much but all in all it was a good birthday ha-ha. 

   This week I also went on divisions   with some of the elders in my district again. They have been struggling so I went to see how and what I could do to help them out. Everything went well and I was able to give them a little bit of advice on how to work more effectively. However when we were walking down the street a drunk in a motor taxi almost hit us and then told us in some "choice words" that gringos aren’t welcome here. It kind of annoyed me for a little bit but I got over it.

   O I don’t remember of I told you guys this last week but right now we’re looking for a new house and I’m not going to lie it’s a big pain! I swear the one ones that we have been able to find here in our area are supppper ghetto. Our area is also kind of "dangerous" so were only allowed to look in a certain part of our area. We need a miracle to find a house. We have to change houses because the house we live in is 2 stories. We live up stairs and no one lives below us; however the owner of the house is now renting the lower part so were basically getting kicked out. 

   I realized how lucky we are back at home to have a ward that functions and members who are willing to fulfill their callings. We had a meeting with our branch president the other day and we basically found out that he has no support from the members; it’s not that he’s a bad guy and no one likes him, they just don’t help him. He doesn’t even have councilors.  He asked us to help him out and I’m going to do all I can to do so.
     

    You’ll have to try to send some pics of the house I would like to see the color you chose. That’s good that’s its starting to heat but up for you, I’m sure your ready for the heat. Me on the other hand. .... I can’t wait to pick up my board and tear up the powder but I’ll have to wait a little bit longer to do that. 

   I hope you all have a great week and that all goes well. I love you all so very much! Until next week,

Elder Hope!

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Eyo!
 What’s up family? Wow I can’t believe that another week has already gone by! The time is flying. I got the two packages that you guys sent me so thanks so much for that! I love the new shirts and everything else that was in the packages!                         
  This week was pretty good, I went on divisions with the zone leaders and it was pretty fun. My comp for the day was Elder Monson. He’s from Sandy UT and is 6 feet 10 inches tall. I’m sure you know this but anyone who’s is 6ft 10in tall is a really tall person.  He sticks out pretty bad here. While we were walking in the street a girl stopped us and asked if she could take a pic of him it was pretty funny but I’m sure he gets a little sick of everyone telling him every day how tall his is ha-ha . Never the less it was a great day. 
   The other day we went to visit some less active members and shared a lesson with them. When we got there we sat down and started to talk a little bit. About 2 mins into the lesson I found a flea on my arm so I flicked it off.  Didn’t tell the member because I didn’t want them to feel bad. However a couple min. later I found another one! As we finished the lesson I felt like I was covered in fleas. They told us as we were walking out that their house had a lot of fleas. All I thought was “I noticed”.
   Sunday was a really cool day. We had stake conference but it was a little different than normal. We watched a broadcast from Salt Lake City that was only for southern Mexico. Elder Bednar and Elder Scott both spoke and it was really good! I would love to tell you all they said but there’s never enough time. We had an investigator go with us and he loved it. 
  I know this is a short message but I just want to let you all know how much I love you guys. Once again thanks for the packages! Take some pics of Gracie’s baptism for me!   
Love you all!
ELDER HOPE

Tuesday, March 5, 2013

Que Tal?

Whats up family how did every ones week go? Sounds like a lot has been going down back at home. First Im glad to hear that you all got back from your little trip and that you were able to have some fun. I’m also glad that you guys got the little package that I sent with Elder Lovell, I wanted to send more but I also didn’t make to make him take up all his space and weight for his suit cases so I just sent that stuff. The little statue is a gift that a member gave to me awhile back.
I never knew that Breanne Erickson was going to go on a mission but that’s sweet, tell her congrats. I’m sure you'll probably tell her all about Dallas huh. She will love the mission it’s awesome. I have really grown to love it, not to hurt your guys feelings or anything but I really don’t want to come home and I’m pretty sad that I only have five months more to do what I’m doing. I’m going to miss it.
I am getting to know the area a little better now. It’s a little confusing because there are so many little short cuts and what not but I’m getting it down. This week was super busy! I went on divisions with the elders in my district this week. The coolest was with Elder Stevenson from Utah because I GOT TO GO BACK TO XADANI!!! It was supper cool; I was able to see a lot of members there and also some of my converts! It was a great blessing to see them once again. I was also surprised to see that the elders there are still teaching some of the investigators that me Elder Juarez and I found over a year ago when I was in Xadani. It was good to see them and it was cool to see the investigators and members when they say that I was back. I’m not sure why they liked me so much when I was there ha-ha I could barely speak Spanish! But they were all happy to see me again. And I was happy to see them.
Fast Sunday was pretty cool; the mission put a goal to have 100 baptisms in the month of March which means 2 baptisms for ever area. So we fasted to help us find those ready to be baptized this month. Later that day we were able to but 4 baptism dates meaning we have 5 in total. I hope and pray 2 of them well keep progressing so we can make that goal. Sunday was cool because a lot of members also gave their testimony in Zapateco, just like in Xadani. I’m having a good time trying to learn zapateco again.
I had better get going so that I can try to send you some pictures this time. I hope that you all have a good week like always and that you also take the time to help those need. I love you all so very much and pray for you nightly!
Until next week,
LOVE ELDER HOPE

Tuesday, February 26, 2013


Family,

Hey everyone what’s crack in? This week went by pretty fast not going to lie. I’m pretty sure it was due to the new area and what not. So far I’m still pretty lost and I’m doing my best to get to know the area but it’s pretty big so It'll probably be another week or two before I know it really well. My comp is a pretty good guy; he’s got a little less time than I do in the mission. Today I spent a good while cleaning the house because it was really dirty. I didn’t have time to finish so tonight will probably clean some more. 

Turns out there is a church right below us outside our window where we study... It’s been interesting to see how other churches run things. I learned this week that they run their churches off of fear. The pastor was telling the members to avoid other churches and not to listen to other pastors because the day they do they will be lost. I found it interesting because it’s completely different then how the TRUE church runs. We do everything out of love not fear. 

The other day I ate some tacos de cadenza or head tacos. They actually tasted pretty good. They people here in Juchitan are all really nice people for the most part.... ha. The members always give us food when we go to their houses and won’t let us leave until we eat. I should gain back all the weight that I lost in the coast. 

Saturday night we got a call to give talks in sacrament meeting so my first Sunday here in the branch I got to talk. It went well and I spoke about missionary work. I’m not sure if anyone liked it or not because no one here ever tells you if they liked your talk or not so it’s a little different than back at home when everyone tells you that you did well even though it wasn’t very good. We don’t have a chapel here only a house of prayer. It was pretty hot yesterday so it was kind of miserable. They also don’t have very many youth here so we bless the sacrament. I really don’t mind I actually like doing it. 

Before I forget here's Elder Lovell’s address, 21 north 4850 E Rigby Idaho 83442. Hopefully he’s called you guys by now..... 

It sounds like everyone is doing good back at home. I hope you all have fun on your trip to Boise and I hope you get there safely! I love you all so very much and I hope and wish the best for you all. Let me know if there is anything you need! 

Con Amor Elder Hope

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Hey!
 Que Onda?  Thanks dad for the pic’s those were pretty fun to look at, and Josh I loved the video of Jeff falling off of the snow machine ha-ha that was funny. I just hope we will go when I get back. 
  This week was a pretty good week; once again we were able to meet most of our goals so I and Elder Adams are pretty happy. The assistants actually called us the other day to congratulate us on our key indicators so that was nice of them. Oh and before I forget this is the last week of the change so that means Sunday is CH-CH-CHANGES!! I really have had a good time working with elder Adams, he’s a good guy and this change flew by! Were excited to see what will happen on Sunday when we get the changes.
   Wednesday and Friday we worked in a threesome with one of our zone leaders named Elder Prince. I think I have told you this but I actually live with the zone leaders so there are four of us in the house. His comp Elder Aguirre had to go to Oaxaca for a meeting so we spent two days trying to work in both of our areas. It was actually kind of hard and we walked a lot. We've been walking on average 9.5 miles a day. I’m not sure if that’s a lot for a missionary but it feels like a lot when it’s 100 plus outside and hilly. But it’s alright Ill survive. I kind of like it because I’m losing weight so it’s a good thing I guess. 
   Mom congrats on your calling!!! I know that the lord will help you through your calling and as long as you look for his help he will give it to you. That’s something I really have learned her on the mission. He will help you. What a great opportunity to help the other sisters in the ward and learn at the same time. I know that this is a short letter but I have to go. Oh Ya there is an Elder her on the mission that will be going home in a week and a half he’s from Ririe. I’m going to send my iPod home with him so that it makes it safe. I’m going to give him the house phone number and I’ll also ask for his that way you can get in touch with him and next time you go up there to fish he will give it to you. I’ll keep you posted on what happens. Anyways I love you all. Until next week.
 ELDER HOPE

Tuesday, February 5, 2013


Heyo!

   What’s cracking family? Sounds like everyone are doing pretty good back at home these days so that’s good to hear. It also sounds like you all made it back from your trips to Utah and that’s good also! ha-ha mom and dad I can totally see you two sitting there at chucky cheese while little kids are running and flying through the air ha-ha I’m glad that you had fun though. So the Ravens won huh? To be honest yesterday while we were teaching one of our investigators her son was in their house watching it.  I couldn’t hear what was going on only a bunch of Mexican announcers screaming and what not ha but oh well next year. Jc I want to see some of your little clips so try to send me one alright.

   So to be honest it’s getting really hot here now. I just checked to see the weather and it says its 94 degrees but with the humidity it feels 100. So it’s warming up! To be honest I hope I get sent to the city here in a couple weeks because it’s a lot cooler over there than it is here in the coast. But I guess I’ll have to wait and see. This week we have been doing a lot of service for a couple investigators. Wednesday morning we went and helped a lady move between 1,700 to 2,000 little cinder blocks (as seen in pic). I was pretty sore the next day, my body really it’s used to that kind of work anymore. The funny thing is we didn’t finish the first day so we had to go back Saturday to move the rest. We found some interesting things under all those blocks. It was basically a zoo; we found three tarantulas, 1 scorpion, frogs, cockroaches... tons and tons of cockroaches and millions of ants. It was hard work but fun in the end. At one point in time I loaded up a wheel barrel with 35 of the blocks and was successful in picking it up and moving them. I'm still strong just saying ha-ha.   

   We had a little activity this week with the ward which went really well. We played something called Mormonoply. It was like the game however we rolled a dice, they answered a question about the book of Mormon or Bible and then got points for answering the question right. We also had punishments and challenges. One of which was to see who could eat a jalapeno pepper the fastest. It was fun to watch.
   We had another great week here and we have been receiving a lot of blessings. The other day we got a reference from a member so we went to check it out. Turns out the reference we got were two people who had talked with the missionary's before. Long story short there really cool and we were able to place two baptism dates with them. The work here is good, the food spicy and the weather HOT! But I love every minute of it. I hope that this email made sense and that you can read it even if it didn’t. I know that when the lord calls us to do something he does it because he knows we can. I also know that he’s always there to help us out when we need it and will answer our prayers. How blessed are we? 

   I had better get going but I want to let you all know how much I love you and hope you all have a great week!

Until next time,

Love Jake

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Hey!
   What’s up family how have you all been doing this week? Sounds like you have been enjoying a little warmer weather this week so that’s good. That’s sweet that you guys are going to Utah this week and that Jc is going to be going to big sky and then to a jazz game. Jealous. I just hope that all goes well and that you all travel safely wherever you go. 
   Well this week I went Cuaji to do some divisions with the elder in my district. It went really good. I pretty much went to do a baptism interview with a teenager that they were teaching. We had a pretty good talk and I could tell she really wanted to be baptized. The cool part about it is that she and her family live in a pueblo called Zoto about 30 minutes away from cuaji. I think it’s safe to say that I was the first gringo to go there (at least missionaries). We really didn’t stay to long; one of the members that live in cuaji gave us a ride in his 1980 somthing bronco to Zoto. Long story short it was a pretty long, bumpy, dusty, and hot ride but never the less I’m grateful he was willing to help us out. Right after the interview we headed back to go to some other appointments that they had. All in all it went well. 
    This week went great work wise. We were able to meet just about all of our goals so were pretty happy about that. The zone leaders that are in my district had a baptism Saturday night and we ended up having 4 investigators (3 of which have baptism dates) go so it was a big blessing. You can always feel the spirit super strong at Baptisms. Afterwards we gave them a tour of the church and they all seemed to like it. So the work is going great here. There have been a lot of little earthquakes here in pinotepa. It’s made me super paranoid to be honest. Every little vibration that I feel I think it’s an earthquake. So I need to get out of here its making me go crazy! It’s funny that you said to watch out for the dogs in the letter you sent me because while I was talking on the phone the other day when one snuck up behind me and tried to bite the back of my leg however it has horrible aim and coordination and only ended up hitting the back of my leg with its snout so jokes on him! HA. It did scare me though.... I also pulled a flee off of me the other day so now I know how josh feels. I have no idea where it came from but I didn’t have anymore so that’s good.
   Well I had better get going but I love you all so very much! I hope everything goes good for you throughout the week. Until next time,
Elder Hope!
 p.s. I bet the 49s win..... Just saying.

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

Eyo!
   What’s up family how’s everyone doing? Before I forget yes dad I did get the watch you sent me, I’m actually wearing it right now so THANKS! It sounds like it’s pretty cold down there.... bummer ha I’ll try to send some heat your way. I hope you all have fun this weekend up at the cabin, tell frank and all them I say hi and if the ask about the church again... don’t be afraid to share what you know. The lord will help you all know what to say and you will also receive blessings for sharing the gospel. Just tell him to get baptized jk. But really this week has gone bye really fast. I’m having a really good time with Elder Adams (my comp from the mtc). He’s a really good kid and I feel like we had a lot of good experiences throughout the week. One of them was with a less active member named Maria Elena. We have been working with her for a while to get her to come back to church and this week she finally opened up and told us why she hadn't been coming to church. Long story short some member once said something to her that she didn’t like and for that she dropped the Church. We had a really good lesson with her about the atonement and I think she felt the spirit. All I hope is that she will come back to church. 
  Also it just turns out that E Adams was in my last area of Ixtepec Centro this last change so I have been asking him a lot about some of my converts over there. I have some good news! All of them are still going to church! In fact do you all remember Rolando? When I was there we baptized him and his son Jose but Rolando's wife never got baptized... Turns out not to long ago she was baptized and Rolando her husband was the one who baptized her. How cool is that? Also do you remember Yodo and Harvey? Their parents were inactive when we got there but we worked a lot with them and got them to come back to church and at the same time baptized Yodo and Harvey. Good news! There still going to church and going strong. E Adams told me that the dad of the family, Elias picks up member every Sunday to help them get to church. It was really good to get to hear about them all. Elder Adams says that they would always talk about me. It’s hard to describe how happy that makes me feel knowing that they all are still going strong and that I was able to help them out. I really love the mission. 
   I don’t have to much more time but I read THIS SWEET TALK THE OTHER DAY IN THE LIAHONA ABOUT HAPPINESS. I just wanted to share a part with you all that I liked. "Happiness is a decision" The point of the talk was that were always going to have problems and challenges in our life and the way we face those challenges all depends on us. We can choose to be happy or we can choose to be sad. It’s our decision. I know that if we choose to be happy thought out these times when we are facing trials that it will all turn out well in the end and we will even learn something that we can then use to help others when they face similar trials. I know it’s hard but I also know that we can do it. 
    Well that’s about all I got for you all this week, Jeff I got your letter that you sent, thanks so much for that and tell the kids thanks for the pics! I loved them. As for Crues question when I will be back ha-ha tell him soon. Also about the kid that just went home. He lives in Colorado so now we will have a place to sleep when we go to a Denver Bronco’s game ha-ha.
I love you all so much and I hope you have a great week! Until next time,
 Con Amor elder hope!