6/14/10 Email Message
Family,
Well I cant believe this is my last email. I am so grateful I chose to serve a mission. I feel like its given me a sure anchor of faith for the rest of my life. Ive learned so much and had so many great experiences. I thought it would be a sacrifice - but I was wrong. Ive lost nothing and gained everything. I cannot express how grateful I am. What an experience. Im looking forward to sharing it with you all when I get home!
Speaking of which, thanks for letting me know the plans. It sounds great. I just want to do whatever you want to do. Im excited to see everyone! Ive worked really hard to hold back the excitement so that I could focus on my last few weeks here. And Im happy to say Ive done pretty well. We are working hard and I feel great serving the Lord. But I cant help being excited to go home anymore. Im excited to spend time with everyone - especially Asher! It should be a great summer.
I love you! Ill see you next week! (weird... ;-) )
Much Love, Elder Brendan Kingsford
P.S. - I sent some packages home. Please dont open them.
484
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Monday, May 24, 2010
"What do you think mans greatest desire is?"
5/24/10 Email Message
Family,
I just want to start with a note to Kendall. I feel your pain! Stick shift is not fun. When I started learning, I spent the first few weeks avoiding hills at all costs. I would leave seminary early and take the long way to school all the way through heavy traffic down madison pike because the hill on eastview just about gave me nightmares. I swear I could just hear everyone behind me in traffic laughing at me as I grinded gears, stalled out, and rolled backward 10 feet every time I tried to start. I came to loathe stop signs and red lights because that meant I had to go back to the dreaded 1st gear. Why wouldnt dad just let me drive an automatic?! I hated the stupid stick shift. And then something amazing happened. Mom finally deemed it safe enough to take me out and show me how to use it. And then it clicked. And now I am so glad I know how to drive a manual because I have been in tons of situations where it was the only option I had. It has made life easier. And plus its cool. So just keep practicing and try to convince mom its safe enough for her to take you out ;-) (and whatever you do, avoid eastview at all costs!)
Life is going pretty good over here. Today is May 24 which means exactly one month until the last day in the field. Im not really sure what to think of that so I am really just trying not to think of it. However, I do have to send home some stuff soon. (I dont know how much its going to cost. How does 200 dollars sound for shipping and a new suitcase?)
But other than that its life as usual for us here in Hachinohe. I had a really cool experience on the street last night. It was late at night and we were about to go home when I stopped a man and we started to talk. He seemed pretty interested and as we were talking he asked me a question. He said "What do you think mans greatest desire is?" Ive actually never heard a Japanese person ask me a question like that before so I was pretty impressed. And as I thought about it the Spirit gave me an answer that impressed me even more. I felt inspired to say "What man most desires is a relationship with God. He may not even recognize it himself, but every person is looking for God. And we can show you how to find Him" And then Hiro san and I just stood there for a few moments and felt the spirit speak to our hearts. He said motioned to his heart and said "I think you are right. I feel it right here. How can I find Him?" Hes coming to our Book of Mormon class tonight and our Bible class on Wednesday.
I think thats what I will miss the most. The opportunity to bear my testimony every day in spontaneous moments like that. When will i get another chance to walk up to strangers and bear my testimony of the gospel? It sounds a little weird i know, but i love talking to strangers about religion and about my faith. They need Jesus as much as I do. And I love when we feel the spirit together like I did with Hiro san last night. I hope to have many experiences like that over this last month.
I love you! Thanks for all of your prayers and encouragement. Dad dont get in anymore wrecks!
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
395
Family,
I just want to start with a note to Kendall. I feel your pain! Stick shift is not fun. When I started learning, I spent the first few weeks avoiding hills at all costs. I would leave seminary early and take the long way to school all the way through heavy traffic down madison pike because the hill on eastview just about gave me nightmares. I swear I could just hear everyone behind me in traffic laughing at me as I grinded gears, stalled out, and rolled backward 10 feet every time I tried to start. I came to loathe stop signs and red lights because that meant I had to go back to the dreaded 1st gear. Why wouldnt dad just let me drive an automatic?! I hated the stupid stick shift. And then something amazing happened. Mom finally deemed it safe enough to take me out and show me how to use it. And then it clicked. And now I am so glad I know how to drive a manual because I have been in tons of situations where it was the only option I had. It has made life easier. And plus its cool. So just keep practicing and try to convince mom its safe enough for her to take you out ;-) (and whatever you do, avoid eastview at all costs!)
Life is going pretty good over here. Today is May 24 which means exactly one month until the last day in the field. Im not really sure what to think of that so I am really just trying not to think of it. However, I do have to send home some stuff soon. (I dont know how much its going to cost. How does 200 dollars sound for shipping and a new suitcase?)
But other than that its life as usual for us here in Hachinohe. I had a really cool experience on the street last night. It was late at night and we were about to go home when I stopped a man and we started to talk. He seemed pretty interested and as we were talking he asked me a question. He said "What do you think mans greatest desire is?" Ive actually never heard a Japanese person ask me a question like that before so I was pretty impressed. And as I thought about it the Spirit gave me an answer that impressed me even more. I felt inspired to say "What man most desires is a relationship with God. He may not even recognize it himself, but every person is looking for God. And we can show you how to find Him" And then Hiro san and I just stood there for a few moments and felt the spirit speak to our hearts. He said motioned to his heart and said "I think you are right. I feel it right here. How can I find Him?" Hes coming to our Book of Mormon class tonight and our Bible class on Wednesday.
I think thats what I will miss the most. The opportunity to bear my testimony every day in spontaneous moments like that. When will i get another chance to walk up to strangers and bear my testimony of the gospel? It sounds a little weird i know, but i love talking to strangers about religion and about my faith. They need Jesus as much as I do. And I love when we feel the spirit together like I did with Hiro san last night. I hope to have many experiences like that over this last month.
I love you! Thanks for all of your prayers and encouragement. Dad dont get in anymore wrecks!
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
395
Sunday, May 23, 2010
5/22/10 Email Message from Todd Ogaard
Dear Parents of Elder Kingsford:
I had the privilege of taking your son and his companion, Elder
Kawahara, to lunch today in Hachinohe. I served in the Sendai Mission
35 years ago, including in Hachinohe, and was in the area visiting
some old friends. You must be very proud of your son - he impressed me
in a profound way and I am also proud, as a Sendai RM, to have him
serving here, if only for 5 or 6 more weeks. I thought you might
enjoy seeing the attached pictures.
Kindest regards,
--
Todd Ogaard
Dear Parents of Elder Kingsford:
I had the privilege of taking your son and his companion, Elder
Kawahara, to lunch today in Hachinohe. I served in the Sendai Mission
35 years ago, including in Hachinohe, and was in the area visiting
some old friends. You must be very proud of your son - he impressed me
in a profound way and I am also proud, as a Sendai RM, to have him
serving here, if only for 5 or 6 more weeks. I thought you might
enjoy seeing the attached pictures.
Kindest regards,
--
Todd Ogaard
Monday, April 26, 2010
Who knew flowers could be so exciting?!
4/26/10 Email Message
Family,
Hey! First of all - Dad great joke. Thats one of the better ones Ive heard in a while. Its nice to actually be able to laugh at a joke for real. I dont know how it was for you but Japanese humor just doesnt do it for me. Half of the time I dont understand what they are saying and the other half I just dont think its funny. So its nice to hear a good joke every once in a while ;-)
Things are going great here. We had two baptisms last week. The branch is overjoyed. Everyone says they havent seen this much success in years. The Lord is pouring out His blessings on Hachinohe. Im so glad to be here for the end of my mission. I cant imagine a better place.
The cherry blossoms should be in bloom right now, but they refuse to come out until it warms up. The problem is winter just doesnt seem to want to go away. Last Friday it was raining and so cold that I was dendoing in full winter gear - wool socks, thermals, sweater, and ski jacket. So needless to say the cherry blossoms are still biding their time. Right now that seems to be the biggest news in Japan. Everyone is excitedly waiting for the first blooms to show. Anjiki kyoudai gets up early every morning, walks to the park, checks the trees, and calls us to give us an update. Who knew flowers could be so exciting?!
But hey Mothers day is in a couple weeks so you know what that means - one more call home. But when do you want to do it? Let me know so we can plan around it.
I love you! I hope everyone has a great week. Talk to you soon!
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
247
Family,
Hey! First of all - Dad great joke. Thats one of the better ones Ive heard in a while. Its nice to actually be able to laugh at a joke for real. I dont know how it was for you but Japanese humor just doesnt do it for me. Half of the time I dont understand what they are saying and the other half I just dont think its funny. So its nice to hear a good joke every once in a while ;-)
Things are going great here. We had two baptisms last week. The branch is overjoyed. Everyone says they havent seen this much success in years. The Lord is pouring out His blessings on Hachinohe. Im so glad to be here for the end of my mission. I cant imagine a better place.
The cherry blossoms should be in bloom right now, but they refuse to come out until it warms up. The problem is winter just doesnt seem to want to go away. Last Friday it was raining and so cold that I was dendoing in full winter gear - wool socks, thermals, sweater, and ski jacket. So needless to say the cherry blossoms are still biding their time. Right now that seems to be the biggest news in Japan. Everyone is excitedly waiting for the first blooms to show. Anjiki kyoudai gets up early every morning, walks to the park, checks the trees, and calls us to give us an update. Who knew flowers could be so exciting?!
But hey Mothers day is in a couple weeks so you know what that means - one more call home. But when do you want to do it? Let me know so we can plan around it.
I love you! I hope everyone has a great week. Talk to you soon!
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
247
Monday, April 19, 2010
We need to baptize EVERYONE
4/19/10 Email Message
Family,
Hows it going? Are you still sore dad? 10 hours of ditch digging and pipe laying all by yourself?! おつかれさまです！Just make sure you leave me something to do this summer! But it sounds like those will be some major improvements for the yard.
Im glad the yard is looking good - but Im almost positive that grass is cursed. We have hand weeded, fertilized, watered, and babied that lawn for years...and nothing to show for it. I dont think even a lawn service can save it. We should just rip it all out and start over...or just put in a really big pool.
And thanks for the pictures Mom! Asher got an entire cake to himself?! Wow times have changed...
Although I dont have any cake to smash all over myself (nice one Asher!) life over here in the islands of the sea is going great. Wang shimai got baptized on Saturday and she asked me to baptize her. It was a fantastic service. She is so amazing and so unbelievably faithful. After she got baptized she bore her testimony about how this just feels right. She said she could really feel that her life has changed and that she has been reborn through the power of the gospel.
It has been such a treat to teach her about Christ and teach her of the love that her Heavenly Father has for her. Because she is Chinese, she is so different from all the Japanese people I have taught. She is much more upfront and outspoken. And her sense of humor and personality is so funny because it is soooo different from everyone else around us. Sometimes she says things that make me burst out laughing simply because it is so taboo in Japanese culture. And the members love her because she has a gift for making everyone around her loosen up and be more genki. She beams with the light of Christ.
We also have another baptism this Thursday for Imoto san (the guy that came to our window and told us he wanted to "do our religion"). He has asked Anjiki kyoudai to baptize him.
(Quick not on Anjiki kyoudai. He is the most amazing recent convert most likely in the entire world. He is the kind of person missionaries dream of meeting and the very person I have spent hours over the course of my mission praying to find. I cant even describe how incredible he is. He is the kind of person that will change the history of the church here in Tohoku. He will be a force that blesses peoples lives and will strengthen the church in ways that we as missionaries could never do. He can and does do literally anything to serve the Lord. He is the kind of person that General Authorities tell stories about in general conference or that they write articles about in the Ensign. I cannot express my gratitude for the oppurtunity to find, teach, and baptize Anjiki kyoudai)
Anyways Anjiki kyoudai went and bought white pants instead of just borrowing some from us because in his words "I dont intend for this to be a one time experience. We need to baptize EVERYONE."
So life is going pretty good right now. Oh and my companion and I found something we have in common. We both like to run. We found a good route and we have gotten up early the past few mornings to put in some miles with the old running shoes. Apparently he used to run long distance track in high school. So thats been pretty fun to do. I felt pretty good about myself too because Ive actually been able to keep up with him the whole time.
I love you! Thanks for writing me so much and sending me such good pictures. It helps a lot. Talk to you soon!
Much love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
Family,
Hows it going? Are you still sore dad? 10 hours of ditch digging and pipe laying all by yourself?! おつかれさまです！Just make sure you leave me something to do this summer! But it sounds like those will be some major improvements for the yard.
Im glad the yard is looking good - but Im almost positive that grass is cursed. We have hand weeded, fertilized, watered, and babied that lawn for years...and nothing to show for it. I dont think even a lawn service can save it. We should just rip it all out and start over...or just put in a really big pool.
And thanks for the pictures Mom! Asher got an entire cake to himself?! Wow times have changed...
Although I dont have any cake to smash all over myself (nice one Asher!) life over here in the islands of the sea is going great. Wang shimai got baptized on Saturday and she asked me to baptize her. It was a fantastic service. She is so amazing and so unbelievably faithful. After she got baptized she bore her testimony about how this just feels right. She said she could really feel that her life has changed and that she has been reborn through the power of the gospel.
It has been such a treat to teach her about Christ and teach her of the love that her Heavenly Father has for her. Because she is Chinese, she is so different from all the Japanese people I have taught. She is much more upfront and outspoken. And her sense of humor and personality is so funny because it is soooo different from everyone else around us. Sometimes she says things that make me burst out laughing simply because it is so taboo in Japanese culture. And the members love her because she has a gift for making everyone around her loosen up and be more genki. She beams with the light of Christ.
We also have another baptism this Thursday for Imoto san (the guy that came to our window and told us he wanted to "do our religion"). He has asked Anjiki kyoudai to baptize him.
(Quick not on Anjiki kyoudai. He is the most amazing recent convert most likely in the entire world. He is the kind of person missionaries dream of meeting and the very person I have spent hours over the course of my mission praying to find. I cant even describe how incredible he is. He is the kind of person that will change the history of the church here in Tohoku. He will be a force that blesses peoples lives and will strengthen the church in ways that we as missionaries could never do. He can and does do literally anything to serve the Lord. He is the kind of person that General Authorities tell stories about in general conference or that they write articles about in the Ensign. I cannot express my gratitude for the oppurtunity to find, teach, and baptize Anjiki kyoudai)
Anyways Anjiki kyoudai went and bought white pants instead of just borrowing some from us because in his words "I dont intend for this to be a one time experience. We need to baptize EVERYONE."
So life is going pretty good right now. Oh and my companion and I found something we have in common. We both like to run. We found a good route and we have gotten up early the past few mornings to put in some miles with the old running shoes. Apparently he used to run long distance track in high school. So thats been pretty fun to do. I felt pretty good about myself too because Ive actually been able to keep up with him the whole time.
I love you! Thanks for writing me so much and sending me such good pictures. It helps a lot. Talk to you soon!
Much love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
The special aura that they had
4/11/10 Email Message
Family,
こんにちは！How is everybody? How was ashers b-day party? Did you save me some cake?
Things are going great here. We have two baptisms coming up in the next two weeks and the branch is so excited. I am too!
Also Sandra loved the gift you sent her. She told me to pass along her thanks. We had a lesson with her last week and it was so great. She told us how the book of mormon has changed her life, and how happy and content her life is now that she has the gospel. She no longer has any reason to worry about life because she knows God has a plan for her. Also she has been sharing the gospel with her friend and plans on asking her to meet with us in her home. Its funny because when we first met her she told us about all the mormons she had known and the special aura that they had. And now she herself is glowing with that same special glow. And those around her are noticing it and being blessed by her example. Its such a neat thing to witness. One big cycle of love, faith, and the light of Christ. I love this gospel!
Im still working on getting my companion to talk. Most of the day is taken up by long stretches of silence and conversations with myself in my head (and sometimes out loud). Ive never had an experience like this so its kind of weird. But we will keep working on it.
I love you all so much. Talk to you soon.
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
173
Family,
こんにちは！How is everybody? How was ashers b-day party? Did you save me some cake?
Things are going great here. We have two baptisms coming up in the next two weeks and the branch is so excited. I am too!
Also Sandra loved the gift you sent her. She told me to pass along her thanks. We had a lesson with her last week and it was so great. She told us how the book of mormon has changed her life, and how happy and content her life is now that she has the gospel. She no longer has any reason to worry about life because she knows God has a plan for her. Also she has been sharing the gospel with her friend and plans on asking her to meet with us in her home. Its funny because when we first met her she told us about all the mormons she had known and the special aura that they had. And now she herself is glowing with that same special glow. And those around her are noticing it and being blessed by her example. Its such a neat thing to witness. One big cycle of love, faith, and the light of Christ. I love this gospel!
Im still working on getting my companion to talk. Most of the day is taken up by long stretches of silence and conversations with myself in my head (and sometimes out loud). Ive never had an experience like this so its kind of weird. But we will keep working on it.
I love you all so much. Talk to you soon.
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
173
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
It's actually warming up around here
4/5/10 Email Message
Hello!
Thanks once again for the awesome pics mom. You have gotten so good with the camera. They are amazing.
I got a new companion - his name is Elder Kawahara and he is straight out of the MTC. He is also the most quiet, timid person i have ever met in my life - but Ill fix that.
Im excited for general conference this weekend (delayed broadcast). We have baptism interviews for two of our investigators on Saturday. So exciting!
Its actually warming up around here - pretty soon Ill be packing this old beat up winter coat away for good.
Life is good. Im really tired though, so I dont have a lot to say. Madison looks beautiful right now. When I look at pictures from home I feel like Im looking at old memories. Its weird.
I love you! Talk to you next week.
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
Hello!
Thanks once again for the awesome pics mom. You have gotten so good with the camera. They are amazing.
I got a new companion - his name is Elder Kawahara and he is straight out of the MTC. He is also the most quiet, timid person i have ever met in my life - but Ill fix that.
Im excited for general conference this weekend (delayed broadcast). We have baptism interviews for two of our investigators on Saturday. So exciting!
Its actually warming up around here - pretty soon Ill be packing this old beat up winter coat away for good.
Life is good. Im really tired though, so I dont have a lot to say. Madison looks beautiful right now. When I look at pictures from home I feel like Im looking at old memories. Its weird.
I love you! Talk to you next week.
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
I'm pretty sure it will never warm up
3/29/10 Email Message
Dear Family,
I dont have a lot of time, but I just wanted to say I love you. Things are going great here. This is definitely the best time of my mission. Im really glad I chose to extend to the end of June. Im so happy to be here and to be a missionary. I wouldnt chose to be anywhere else than right here in Hachinohe Japan.
Its snowing right now. Im pretty sure it will never warm up.
I love you! I hope Kendall has a great time with the musical. Break a leg ;-)
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
Dear Family,
I dont have a lot of time, but I just wanted to say I love you. Things are going great here. This is definitely the best time of my mission. Im really glad I chose to extend to the end of June. Im so happy to be here and to be a missionary. I wouldnt chose to be anywhere else than right here in Hachinohe Japan.
Its snowing right now. Im pretty sure it will never warm up.
I love you! I hope Kendall has a great time with the musical. Break a leg ;-)
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
We aren't ready to handle all the success
3/23/10 Email Message
Family,
Hey! Thanks for all the awesome pictures mom! It looks like you had a lot of fun in chattanooga...or at least Asher does...what a cute kid.
I cant think of anything interesting to say today...its cloudy and snowing again today. but we have an exciting new development. In addition to raining, snowing, and just generally being cold all the time the wind has decided to start blowing at record speeds. I was going down the hill on my bike the other day and had to get off and walk it down because the wind wouldnt let me roll down straight. Im starting to wonder if this place even has summer...
Imoto san (the guy that came to our window) has decided to get baptized at the end of April...yayy!!
I played basketball today for the first time in almost a year - it was a blast...but I learned something. As a result of it being so cold outside for the past few months I havent gotten much of an opportunity to go outside and run around. As a result I am unfortunately serverely out of shape. An hour of half court, pick up basketball has completely worn me out. From here on out I will now be running outside in the morning instead of lifting weights inside. I dont care how cold/windy it is ;-)
We worked really hard last week though and saw a lot of blessings. It was basically the most productive week on my mission. We now have three investigators with solid baptism dates. All of them are so cool, and so interesting. Especially Wang san - our Chinese kinjin. I have decided that I really like Chinese people now. When the Church finally gets into that country those missionaries are going to have a free for all. Ive met soooo many prepared Chinese people on my mission. Im starting to think the reason the church cant go yet is because we arent ready to handle all the success we are going to see. There are billions of people in China - and if even a fraction of those are anything like Wang san look out. Its going to be something special.
Now its time for the sad but necessary part of this email...
I got my dying papers last week - sad day. They basically told me Im about to leave soon but that if I endure to the end I will be blessed. It also had my basic return information. My last day in the field is June 24 but my return day is Friday June 25. Apparently they will try to get me home in the early afternoon if they can, but they havent bought the tickets yet so they dont know for sure. They asked me a few questions, but I just want to clarify with you before I answer. Our airport is called the "Huntsville International Airport" right? Also am I right in assuming that Bishop Blake and President Draughon are still our bishop and stake president? I am guessing if there were any changes with that you would have let me know, but I just want to make sure.
Also Ive got my classes lined up for BYU next year. Kaicho told me to make sure Im prepared for it, so I got on and mapped out my next two semesters. Ive decided to stick to Accounting for now - but also to explore some other fields a little and make myself stretch more. Im going to take all the preRecs for the accounting program but also go the honors route and take a bunch of honors classes. Ill be taking Honors Biology 260, an honors PoliSci class (international relations), as well as Japanese, and a world religions class. (I threw in film and weight training for fun) As of now Ive got 18 credit hours for both semesters. Im guessing registration will be in a couple of weeks...
Anyways thats kind of depressing so Ill stop now. We are on our way to a Family Home evening from here so that shoud be fun.
I love you! thanks for the great emails. And awesome pictures. Talk to you soon!
Love, Elder Kingsford
p.s. - happy 21st birthday to me this saturday - i feel old already
Family,
Hey! Thanks for all the awesome pictures mom! It looks like you had a lot of fun in chattanooga...or at least Asher does...what a cute kid.
I cant think of anything interesting to say today...its cloudy and snowing again today. but we have an exciting new development. In addition to raining, snowing, and just generally being cold all the time the wind has decided to start blowing at record speeds. I was going down the hill on my bike the other day and had to get off and walk it down because the wind wouldnt let me roll down straight. Im starting to wonder if this place even has summer...
Imoto san (the guy that came to our window) has decided to get baptized at the end of April...yayy!!
I played basketball today for the first time in almost a year - it was a blast...but I learned something. As a result of it being so cold outside for the past few months I havent gotten much of an opportunity to go outside and run around. As a result I am unfortunately serverely out of shape. An hour of half court, pick up basketball has completely worn me out. From here on out I will now be running outside in the morning instead of lifting weights inside. I dont care how cold/windy it is ;-)
We worked really hard last week though and saw a lot of blessings. It was basically the most productive week on my mission. We now have three investigators with solid baptism dates. All of them are so cool, and so interesting. Especially Wang san - our Chinese kinjin. I have decided that I really like Chinese people now. When the Church finally gets into that country those missionaries are going to have a free for all. Ive met soooo many prepared Chinese people on my mission. Im starting to think the reason the church cant go yet is because we arent ready to handle all the success we are going to see. There are billions of people in China - and if even a fraction of those are anything like Wang san look out. Its going to be something special.
Now its time for the sad but necessary part of this email...
I got my dying papers last week - sad day. They basically told me Im about to leave soon but that if I endure to the end I will be blessed. It also had my basic return information. My last day in the field is June 24 but my return day is Friday June 25. Apparently they will try to get me home in the early afternoon if they can, but they havent bought the tickets yet so they dont know for sure. They asked me a few questions, but I just want to clarify with you before I answer. Our airport is called the "Huntsville International Airport" right? Also am I right in assuming that Bishop Blake and President Draughon are still our bishop and stake president? I am guessing if there were any changes with that you would have let me know, but I just want to make sure.
Also Ive got my classes lined up for BYU next year. Kaicho told me to make sure Im prepared for it, so I got on and mapped out my next two semesters. Ive decided to stick to Accounting for now - but also to explore some other fields a little and make myself stretch more. Im going to take all the preRecs for the accounting program but also go the honors route and take a bunch of honors classes. Ill be taking Honors Biology 260, an honors PoliSci class (international relations), as well as Japanese, and a world religions class. (I threw in film and weight training for fun) As of now Ive got 18 credit hours for both semesters. Im guessing registration will be in a couple of weeks...
Anyways thats kind of depressing so Ill stop now. We are on our way to a Family Home evening from here so that shoud be fun.
I love you! thanks for the great emails. And awesome pictures. Talk to you soon!
Love, Elder Kingsford
p.s. - happy 21st birthday to me this saturday - i feel old already
Monday, March 15, 2010
Tender Mercies
3/15/10 Email Message
Family,
First of all - that looks like one beautiful reception you put on. Where was it held? It looks fabulous! Mom and Dad strike again...
How is everyones spring break? Its this week right? Let me know how it goes!
We had a pretty crazy week. By monday of last week the ice and left over snow from the winter was pretty much all melted away. We were looking forward to the beautiful spring months here and dreaming of warm days ahead. When we woke up Wednesday morning there was 60 centimeters (two feet) of snow on the ground and it was still falling in blizzard proportions. Around lunch time we went out to shovel snow for some of the old ladies in our branch, and we were at least knee deep in snow everywhere we walked. On top of that the snow/hail/sleet was falling so hard and the wind was so strong that we had to hold our shovels in front of our faces to protect our eyes. It was unbelievable! I felt like Parley P. Pratt trekking through the snow on his way to preach the gospel to the Indians. Crazy day...
But Saturday was amazing! We held Sandras baptism service in the afternoon and it was wonderful. Sooo many people from the branch came to support and love her. I was so happy for Sandra. She was beaming the entire day. When we sang the opening hymn, ("Baptism" from the childrens hymnbook) she held her baby close and gave him soft kisses on his head while tears fell from her eyes. The scene melted my heart and I felt the special, sweet love from the Spirit that I have grown to treasure on my mission. It felt like Heavenly Father was smiling at that exact moment because of Sandra. She is one of the most special people I have met on my mission. She just radiates the light of Christ. I am so happy for her and for her family. Ive felt so light and joyful since she was baptized. I dont know why the Lord has blessed me so much lately. Theres a phrase Ive really grown to love recently - "the tender mercies of the Lord". Ive heard it many times in the past, but I never really knew what it meant. After my experiences these last few months, especially meeting and teaching Sandra, I now know what it means. I have felt "the tender mercies of the Lord" in my life. My heart seems to be filled with them.
Our Chinese investigator (Wang Zun) came to the baptism and had the entire thing translated into Chinese for her by a personal translator (returned missionary from Taiwan). Afterwards she kept saying how amazing she felt and how excited she is for her own baptism next month. We are too.
Also this morning we were sitting in our apartment just relaxing (p day) when someone knocked on our back window. It was a young man we met on the street a couple of months ago late at night on our way home from a long day. At the time he told us he wasnt interested because he didnt need God. But today he told us he felt something when we talked. And hes been thinking about it ever since. And now he has decided he does need God. He wants to learn more about what we believe and why he felt so special when he talked to us. I didnt even know what to say. That was the first time I have ever found an investigator while literally just sitting in my apartment. We are meeting him on thursday.
I love you! Thanks so much for being amazing! Talk to you soon!
Elder Brendan Kingsford
The Tender Mercies of the Lord
Family,
First of all - that looks like one beautiful reception you put on. Where was it held? It looks fabulous! Mom and Dad strike again...
How is everyones spring break? Its this week right? Let me know how it goes!
We had a pretty crazy week. By monday of last week the ice and left over snow from the winter was pretty much all melted away. We were looking forward to the beautiful spring months here and dreaming of warm days ahead. When we woke up Wednesday morning there was 60 centimeters (two feet) of snow on the ground and it was still falling in blizzard proportions. Around lunch time we went out to shovel snow for some of the old ladies in our branch, and we were at least knee deep in snow everywhere we walked. On top of that the snow/hail/sleet was falling so hard and the wind was so strong that we had to hold our shovels in front of our faces to protect our eyes. It was unbelievable! I felt like Parley P. Pratt trekking through the snow on his way to preach the gospel to the Indians. Crazy day...
But Saturday was amazing! We held Sandras baptism service in the afternoon and it was wonderful. Sooo many people from the branch came to support and love her. I was so happy for Sandra. She was beaming the entire day. When we sang the opening hymn, ("Baptism" from the childrens hymnbook) she held her baby close and gave him soft kisses on his head while tears fell from her eyes. The scene melted my heart and I felt the special, sweet love from the Spirit that I have grown to treasure on my mission. It felt like Heavenly Father was smiling at that exact moment because of Sandra. She is one of the most special people I have met on my mission. She just radiates the light of Christ. I am so happy for her and for her family. Ive felt so light and joyful since she was baptized. I dont know why the Lord has blessed me so much lately. Theres a phrase Ive really grown to love recently - "the tender mercies of the Lord". Ive heard it many times in the past, but I never really knew what it meant. After my experiences these last few months, especially meeting and teaching Sandra, I now know what it means. I have felt "the tender mercies of the Lord" in my life. My heart seems to be filled with them.
Our Chinese investigator (Wang Zun) came to the baptism and had the entire thing translated into Chinese for her by a personal translator (returned missionary from Taiwan). Afterwards she kept saying how amazing she felt and how excited she is for her own baptism next month. We are too.
Also this morning we were sitting in our apartment just relaxing (p day) when someone knocked on our back window. It was a young man we met on the street a couple of months ago late at night on our way home from a long day. At the time he told us he wasnt interested because he didnt need God. But today he told us he felt something when we talked. And hes been thinking about it ever since. And now he has decided he does need God. He wants to learn more about what we believe and why he felt so special when he talked to us. I didnt even know what to say. That was the first time I have ever found an investigator while literally just sitting in my apartment. We are meeting him on thursday.
I love you! Thanks so much for being amazing! Talk to you soon!
Elder Brendan Kingsford
The Tender Mercies of the Lord
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Its really a treat to teach her and learn from her at the same time.
To My Family!!
Wow cant believe Michelle is getting married. Tell her congratulations from me. Im sure her reception will be amazing. No doubt Mom and Dad will make it beautiful...its what you do best ;-)
Ashers party sounds like its going to be a blast. Whats the theme? Take tons of pictures and send them to me! I just hope he gets some of his own cake...
Is Cassie fully moved in now? Did she carve a space out of Kendalls back wing? Haha I bet its weird having two kids again. And the pictures look awesome! i love the red dirt shots!!
Things are going wonderfully here. Sandra is firmly committed to being baptized on the 13th! She is so good. Everytime we meet her she surprises me with her depth of understanding and her faithful willingness to believe. The scriptures just speak to her heart and she understands them in ways Ive never even thought of before. Its really a treat to teach her and learn from her at the same time. But that brings me to the favor I wanted to ask. Sandra is a single mother of a one year old baby boy who is just the coolest little kid ever. I was wanting to get her some stuff that will help her raise her son in the church. Mom can you help me out with that? What kind of stuff would be good? Little picture books, stuff to play with at church, etc? Can you find a few little things and send them to me? I think she would like that a lot.
Also last sunday we had a special night time sacrament meeting for our Nepalese investigator Rajesh. 5 people attended - the branch president, anjiki kyoudai, rajesh, me and my companion. President gave a talk, and blessed the sacrament. Anjiki kyoudai also gave a talk and passed the sacrament. My companion played the organ and gave the opening prayer. I translated the whole thing and gave the closing prayer. and Rajesh got to enjoy his first sacrament meeting. It was a neat experience. Although it was the smallest sacrament meeting Ive ever been to, It was one of the most special. As I sat there on the front (and only) row and sang the hymns (in a mixture of Japanese and english) and partook of the sacrament with our small little congregation I felt such a strong feeling of peace and joy. I could feel that Heavenly Father loved us and was proud of Rajesh for coming this far even with so much adversity. He is getting baptized next week and Heavenly Father is smiling because of that.
I love my Heavenly Father. I love my Savior Jesus Christ. Im so happy to be a missionary and Im so grateful for these little moments that I will never forget.
And I love you too! Keep sending me those pictures...Im sending you some of my own so you can see what life is like in Hachinohe. Talk to you next week!
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
Wow cant believe Michelle is getting married. Tell her congratulations from me. Im sure her reception will be amazing. No doubt Mom and Dad will make it beautiful...its what you do best ;-)
Ashers party sounds like its going to be a blast. Whats the theme? Take tons of pictures and send them to me! I just hope he gets some of his own cake...
Is Cassie fully moved in now? Did she carve a space out of Kendalls back wing? Haha I bet its weird having two kids again. And the pictures look awesome! i love the red dirt shots!!
Things are going wonderfully here. Sandra is firmly committed to being baptized on the 13th! She is so good. Everytime we meet her she surprises me with her depth of understanding and her faithful willingness to believe. The scriptures just speak to her heart and she understands them in ways Ive never even thought of before. Its really a treat to teach her and learn from her at the same time. But that brings me to the favor I wanted to ask. Sandra is a single mother of a one year old baby boy who is just the coolest little kid ever. I was wanting to get her some stuff that will help her raise her son in the church. Mom can you help me out with that? What kind of stuff would be good? Little picture books, stuff to play with at church, etc? Can you find a few little things and send them to me? I think she would like that a lot.
Also last sunday we had a special night time sacrament meeting for our Nepalese investigator Rajesh. 5 people attended - the branch president, anjiki kyoudai, rajesh, me and my companion. President gave a talk, and blessed the sacrament. Anjiki kyoudai also gave a talk and passed the sacrament. My companion played the organ and gave the opening prayer. I translated the whole thing and gave the closing prayer. and Rajesh got to enjoy his first sacrament meeting. It was a neat experience. Although it was the smallest sacrament meeting Ive ever been to, It was one of the most special. As I sat there on the front (and only) row and sang the hymns (in a mixture of Japanese and english) and partook of the sacrament with our small little congregation I felt such a strong feeling of peace and joy. I could feel that Heavenly Father loved us and was proud of Rajesh for coming this far even with so much adversity. He is getting baptized next week and Heavenly Father is smiling because of that.
I love my Heavenly Father. I love my Savior Jesus Christ. Im so happy to be a missionary and Im so grateful for these little moments that I will never forget.
And I love you too! Keep sending me those pictures...Im sending you some of my own so you can see what life is like in Hachinohe. Talk to you next week!
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
Friday, February 26, 2010
It almost feels like we are starting all over again
2/22/10 Email Message
Family,
First things first...the Church had google renovate their email system for them and now all missionaries are using a version of gmail. So this is the first email sent from my new missionary gmail account. Its awesome! Soooooo much better than the last one we had - and you can send me as many pictures as you want and i never have to delete! woo hoo!
Also that is so cool that Kendall went on a date! She is so gorgeous! That outfit is so you kendall! was it fun?...Mom said Wesley has a cool car - but really, is it as cool as my Mazda Protege- doubt it. Mom you should send me more pictures of Kendall!
Mom you have a facebook? I think thats cool. Too bad Kimberly wont befriend you, we'll see how long that lasts. What do you do on it? Talk to your girls? Do you facebook stalk people? Do you take emo photos of yourself in the mirror and turn them into albums? Thats what all the cool kids do. Im excited to see it. Dont worry...I'll be your friend.
Kimberly's baby is the cutest kid ever. Im so jealous all of you get to play with him all the time - I havent even met him!! The pictures Kimberly sent me are awesome. Looks like it was a fun picnic at the river.
Tomorrow we have a mission conference with Elder Choi of the Seventy. Im pretty excited. I really enjoyed his talk in last general conference so Im glad we get to meet him and get training from him.
Things here are going good. Last week was kind of tough though. We had to let quite a few of our investigators go. They werent really interested in actually putting in the effort it takes to change their lives and repent. They just wanted to be our friends and meet with us because we are so nice to them. I wish we could keep meeting with them and be their friends too, but thats not what we are called to do. We only teach people that are willing to follow Jesus by repenting and keeping commitments. We had quite a few sad meetings the past few days, but its for the best. Now we just need to rely on the Lord to lead us to his prepared people. It almost feels like we are starting all over again, but its ok. We'll just work hard and have the faith and the Lord will make up the rest. I guess thats what the mission is all about. We'll see what happens...
I love you! Sorry I dont have more exciting things to write about. I feel like the last few emails have been really boring. Haha Ill keep my eye out for something cool I can tell you about next week. I cant make any promises though
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
P.S. - Ive eaten American cereal every morning (and sometimes nights too) for the past week. Blueberry Muffin Frosted MiniWheats, Marshmallow Mateys, Honey Nut Chex, and Reeses Puffs. Im in heaven.
Family,
First things first...the Church had google renovate their email system for them and now all missionaries are using a version of gmail. So this is the first email sent from my new missionary gmail account. Its awesome! Soooooo much better than the last one we had - and you can send me as many pictures as you want and i never have to delete! woo hoo!
Also that is so cool that Kendall went on a date! She is so gorgeous! That outfit is so you kendall! was it fun?...Mom said Wesley has a cool car - but really, is it as cool as my Mazda Protege- doubt it. Mom you should send me more pictures of Kendall!
Mom you have a facebook? I think thats cool. Too bad Kimberly wont befriend you, we'll see how long that lasts. What do you do on it? Talk to your girls? Do you facebook stalk people? Do you take emo photos of yourself in the mirror and turn them into albums? Thats what all the cool kids do. Im excited to see it. Dont worry...I'll be your friend.
Kimberly's baby is the cutest kid ever. Im so jealous all of you get to play with him all the time - I havent even met him!! The pictures Kimberly sent me are awesome. Looks like it was a fun picnic at the river.
Tomorrow we have a mission conference with Elder Choi of the Seventy. Im pretty excited. I really enjoyed his talk in last general conference so Im glad we get to meet him and get training from him.
Things here are going good. Last week was kind of tough though. We had to let quite a few of our investigators go. They werent really interested in actually putting in the effort it takes to change their lives and repent. They just wanted to be our friends and meet with us because we are so nice to them. I wish we could keep meeting with them and be their friends too, but thats not what we are called to do. We only teach people that are willing to follow Jesus by repenting and keeping commitments. We had quite a few sad meetings the past few days, but its for the best. Now we just need to rely on the Lord to lead us to his prepared people. It almost feels like we are starting all over again, but its ok. We'll just work hard and have the faith and the Lord will make up the rest. I guess thats what the mission is all about. We'll see what happens...
I love you! Sorry I dont have more exciting things to write about. I feel like the last few emails have been really boring. Haha Ill keep my eye out for something cool I can tell you about next week. I cant make any promises though
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
P.S. - Ive eaten American cereal every morning (and sometimes nights too) for the past week. Blueberry Muffin Frosted MiniWheats, Marshmallow Mateys, Honey Nut Chex, and Reeses Puffs. Im in heaven.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
HAPPY BIRTHDAY KENDALL!!!!!!
2/8/10 Email Message to Kendall
HAPPY BIRTHDAY KENDALL!!!!!! I hope you have a fantastic birthday. Its already February 8 here on the other side of the world. And let me tell you February 8, 2010 is amazing. Its a wonderful day to turn 16! I hope you enjoy it...also I sent you a birthday package a while back and it should get there in a few days. So be on the look out for that!
Not much going on here. Still unbelievably cold. A couple of days ago we went to a Joseph Smith fireside put on by the mission president and his wife. I was the undefeated stick pulling champion!! Ive now been to 3 of these firesides all over northern Japan and I havent even come close to losing once!! Of course I am about 40 pounds heavier and a head taller than everyone else but hey they get what they ask for ;-) Also we are going on base today and going shopping at the american grocery store - so exciting. I dont even know what to buy!
But anyways I hope you have a wonderful birthday. Happy Sweet 16!!
Love you bunches,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
HAPPY BIRTHDAY KENDALL!!!!!! I hope you have a fantastic birthday. Its already February 8 here on the other side of the world. And let me tell you February 8, 2010 is amazing. Its a wonderful day to turn 16! I hope you enjoy it...also I sent you a birthday package a while back and it should get there in a few days. So be on the look out for that!
Not much going on here. Still unbelievably cold. A couple of days ago we went to a Joseph Smith fireside put on by the mission president and his wife. I was the undefeated stick pulling champion!! Ive now been to 3 of these firesides all over northern Japan and I havent even come close to losing once!! Of course I am about 40 pounds heavier and a head taller than everyone else but hey they get what they ask for ;-) Also we are going on base today and going shopping at the american grocery store - so exciting. I dont even know what to buy!
But anyways I hope you have a wonderful birthday. Happy Sweet 16!!
Love you bunches,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
Monday, February 1, 2010
I gave a talk yesterday in English! yikes.
2/1/10 Email Message
Family,
Thanks for all the emails! Especially the pictures you sent me mom - did kendall really create that? Its incredible. How did you learn how to do that?! how come I didnt get any of the talented genes? The house looks good - did we paint the front door that color before i left? I cant remember...I love when you send pictures with your emails. Thanks so much mom! The pictures look great.
Things are going good here. We have sooo many people we are teaching and sooo many good things going on. We set another baptism date last week. I gave up sweets to help our friend give up tobacco and alcohol. Anjiki kyoudai got the priesthood yesterday and he was so happy. I gave a talk yesterday in English! yikes. Speaking japanese has now become a habit. I recently realized that I havent had a prolem with it in quite a while. Its pretty amazing. I am just full of thanks.
The weather has been surprisingly warm the last few days. But thats about it.
Life is good. I love my family. Talk to you soon!
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
Family,
Thanks for all the emails! Especially the pictures you sent me mom - did kendall really create that? Its incredible. How did you learn how to do that?! how come I didnt get any of the talented genes? The house looks good - did we paint the front door that color before i left? I cant remember...I love when you send pictures with your emails. Thanks so much mom! The pictures look great.
Things are going good here. We have sooo many people we are teaching and sooo many good things going on. We set another baptism date last week. I gave up sweets to help our friend give up tobacco and alcohol. Anjiki kyoudai got the priesthood yesterday and he was so happy. I gave a talk yesterday in English! yikes. Speaking japanese has now become a habit. I recently realized that I havent had a prolem with it in quite a while. Its pretty amazing. I am just full of thanks.
The weather has been surprisingly warm the last few days. But thats about it.
Life is good. I love my family. Talk to you soon!
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
Thursday, January 28, 2010
I clearly heard the Spirit tell me to stop and talk to him
1/24/10 Email Message
Family!,
Well Ive been trying to think of something to say...but I cant think of anything interesting or eloquent. So Ill just give you some random updates as they come to mind.
Im pretty tired today, but Im not exactly sure why. The streets here are covered with a thick layer of ice which makes it impossible to ride bikes. Ive got a talk in church this sunday at the military branch - in English! Scary...
Last night on our way home from a long day of dendo i met a really cool 17 year old kid who could be very prepared...it was freezing cold, I was tired, and we were running a little late, but I clearly heard the Spirit tell me to stop and talk to him. We have an appointment with him tonight. Yesterday we had an awesome lesson in elders quorum from, Elder Oaks talk on the relationship between love and law. You should read it.
Also Ive been thinking that Im not so sure about majoring in Accounting anymore. Ive started to feel like I should study some kind of science/technology/business field...I dont know why Ive been getting those feelings either - I havent been trying to think about it. They have just been popping up in my mind lately for some reason. Theres no one to talk to about it though, and no time to really think about it so im pretty confused.
Oh and I got permission from Kaicho to apply for classes on my own on Pday once the time comes to do it, so you dont have to worry about that.
Anyways thats all I have for now. Thanks for writing me and keeping me updated. I love you!!
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
Family!,
Well Ive been trying to think of something to say...but I cant think of anything interesting or eloquent. So Ill just give you some random updates as they come to mind.
Im pretty tired today, but Im not exactly sure why. The streets here are covered with a thick layer of ice which makes it impossible to ride bikes. Ive got a talk in church this sunday at the military branch - in English! Scary...
Last night on our way home from a long day of dendo i met a really cool 17 year old kid who could be very prepared...it was freezing cold, I was tired, and we were running a little late, but I clearly heard the Spirit tell me to stop and talk to him. We have an appointment with him tonight. Yesterday we had an awesome lesson in elders quorum from, Elder Oaks talk on the relationship between love and law. You should read it.
Also Ive been thinking that Im not so sure about majoring in Accounting anymore. Ive started to feel like I should study some kind of science/technology/business field...I dont know why Ive been getting those feelings either - I havent been trying to think about it. They have just been popping up in my mind lately for some reason. Theres no one to talk to about it though, and no time to really think about it so im pretty confused.
Oh and I got permission from Kaicho to apply for classes on my own on Pday once the time comes to do it, so you dont have to worry about that.
Anyways thats all I have for now. Thanks for writing me and keeping me updated. I love you!!
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Hot Water
1/18/10 Email Message
Family,
Sorry I dont have a lot of time today, but I just wanted to say hi and let you know how things are going. Yesterday Anjiki kyoudai got baptized. It was one of the most incredible experiences. Everything from meeting him the first time to yesterdays service was just one huge unbelievable blessing. And yesterday something really special happened.
When we first got there in the morning the hot water in the font wasnt working. Weve had a freak snow storm the past few days and all of the pipes to the font were completely frozen over. Nothing we did could get them to work. So we filled up pots with water at the kichen sink, brought them to a boil, and then filled up the font little by little. The service was at 2:00 and by 11:30 we had barely even made a dent in the font. Meanwhile the pipes were still compltetely frozen and refusing to let in the hot water. At that point our Elders Quorum president called my companion and I together and we stood and prayed to Heavenly Father and asked Him to give us hot water so that Anjiki kyoudai could be baptized at 2 o' clock. As he was praying I started to smile as I felt the power of his prayer and I felt absolutely certain that God would take care of it for us. When we had concluded the prayer we sat in silence for a few moments...before 10 seconds had even passed we heard the water heater kick in, the pipes start to gurgle, and hot water came pouring out of the faucet into the font. The three of us looked at each other, smiled, and our Elders Quorum president cried out (in english) "Unbelievable!" With ice still covering the pipes on the outside and the temperature still well below freezing, God gave us hot water so that Anjiki kyoudai could be baptized at 2 o' clock.
After I baptized him, and before we had climbed out of the font, Anjiki kyoudai looked at me with a big smile on his face, gave me a big hug (something Japanese men never do), and said "Thank you. This is just the beginning."
Its been a long time since this branch has seen a baptism. Everyone was so happy and so excited. All of the women were crying and all of the men kept shaking my hand and thanking me for my hard work. But what they dont know is it wasnt me at all. All I did was pray. The Lord did all of the work.
This whole experience is just representative of the last 2 months of my mission. Over the last two months, Ive finally learned how to pray. Ive really felt the power of pleading with my Heavenly Father. I know that no matter what happens, if we pray with real intent and with sincere desire the Lord will hear our prayers. No matter what the circumstances are, when we really need it, the Lord will provide the hot water.
I love you!! I love my mission! Miracles are happening every day. It truly is amazing.
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
Family,
Sorry I dont have a lot of time today, but I just wanted to say hi and let you know how things are going. Yesterday Anjiki kyoudai got baptized. It was one of the most incredible experiences. Everything from meeting him the first time to yesterdays service was just one huge unbelievable blessing. And yesterday something really special happened.
When we first got there in the morning the hot water in the font wasnt working. Weve had a freak snow storm the past few days and all of the pipes to the font were completely frozen over. Nothing we did could get them to work. So we filled up pots with water at the kichen sink, brought them to a boil, and then filled up the font little by little. The service was at 2:00 and by 11:30 we had barely even made a dent in the font. Meanwhile the pipes were still compltetely frozen and refusing to let in the hot water. At that point our Elders Quorum president called my companion and I together and we stood and prayed to Heavenly Father and asked Him to give us hot water so that Anjiki kyoudai could be baptized at 2 o' clock. As he was praying I started to smile as I felt the power of his prayer and I felt absolutely certain that God would take care of it for us. When we had concluded the prayer we sat in silence for a few moments...before 10 seconds had even passed we heard the water heater kick in, the pipes start to gurgle, and hot water came pouring out of the faucet into the font. The three of us looked at each other, smiled, and our Elders Quorum president cried out (in english) "Unbelievable!" With ice still covering the pipes on the outside and the temperature still well below freezing, God gave us hot water so that Anjiki kyoudai could be baptized at 2 o' clock.
After I baptized him, and before we had climbed out of the font, Anjiki kyoudai looked at me with a big smile on his face, gave me a big hug (something Japanese men never do), and said "Thank you. This is just the beginning."
Its been a long time since this branch has seen a baptism. Everyone was so happy and so excited. All of the women were crying and all of the men kept shaking my hand and thanking me for my hard work. But what they dont know is it wasnt me at all. All I did was pray. The Lord did all of the work.
This whole experience is just representative of the last 2 months of my mission. Over the last two months, Ive finally learned how to pray. Ive really felt the power of pleading with my Heavenly Father. I know that no matter what happens, if we pray with real intent and with sincere desire the Lord will hear our prayers. No matter what the circumstances are, when we really need it, the Lord will provide the hot water.
I love you!! I love my mission! Miracles are happening every day. It truly is amazing.
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
And he knew his prayers had been answered
1/10/10 Email Message
Family,
Yay! BAMA won! Im sure Austin is on top of the world right now. Its crazy how they went from nothing to National Champions in 3 years. Hopefully they can do it again next year so I can see it.
We had transfer calls last week and we found out Elder Carthew and I will be together for at least another 6 weeks. Which is good because we have a lot of good things going on right now.
This Sunday Anjiki san is getting baptized. He asked me to baptize him because he thinks of me as the answer to his prayers. He had been praying for months to find the true church - actually he had been praying for God to send the true church to him some how. He thought about going to many different churches during that time, but he felt impressed to just keep praying for the true church to come to him. So with faith he continued to study the scriptures and pray for a miracle. And then we ran into each other on the street and he knew his prayers had been answered. Im so happy for him. The branch is super excited too.
About my return date...I've officially decided to extend until June 24. Im going to tell President in my interview this week. I dont know what your plans are for when I get home, but I hope the end of June is ok. I just feel like this is the only chance I have in my life to serve the Lord in this way, and Id like to make it last just a little bit longer. I think I can do a lot of good things here in Hachinohe and Misawa so Id like to have more time to serve the people here...Im sorry Mom ;-)
Hey I got the chips and salsa! Thanks so much - they are soo good. It made my companion happy too.
I love you! I hope everyone has a great week. And I hope Kendall is having a good start to the semester! Make sure you live it up! Talk to you soon!
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
Family,
Yay! BAMA won! Im sure Austin is on top of the world right now. Its crazy how they went from nothing to National Champions in 3 years. Hopefully they can do it again next year so I can see it.
We had transfer calls last week and we found out Elder Carthew and I will be together for at least another 6 weeks. Which is good because we have a lot of good things going on right now.
This Sunday Anjiki san is getting baptized. He asked me to baptize him because he thinks of me as the answer to his prayers. He had been praying for months to find the true church - actually he had been praying for God to send the true church to him some how. He thought about going to many different churches during that time, but he felt impressed to just keep praying for the true church to come to him. So with faith he continued to study the scriptures and pray for a miracle. And then we ran into each other on the street and he knew his prayers had been answered. Im so happy for him. The branch is super excited too.
About my return date...I've officially decided to extend until June 24. Im going to tell President in my interview this week. I dont know what your plans are for when I get home, but I hope the end of June is ok. I just feel like this is the only chance I have in my life to serve the Lord in this way, and Id like to make it last just a little bit longer. I think I can do a lot of good things here in Hachinohe and Misawa so Id like to have more time to serve the people here...Im sorry Mom ;-)
Hey I got the chips and salsa! Thanks so much - they are soo good. It made my companion happy too.
I love you! I hope everyone has a great week. And I hope Kendall is having a good start to the semester! Make sure you live it up! Talk to you soon!
Much Love,
Elder Brendan Kingsford
Saturday, January 9, 2010
"I got my answer. Its true. What else can you tell me?"
1/4/10 Email Message
Akemashite Omedeto Gozaimasu - or as we say in English...HAPPY NEW YEARS!!
That is so cool Josh got to come for New Years and chow down on Dads famous gyouza. Has everyone recovered from the gyouza burps yet? I hope you and he had a great time together. I miss him a lot. Tell him Im looking forward to the 2011 anual Kingsford Family/Josh Bell gyouza party. It will be the first time weve had the whole clan together in a while...it should be fun!
Also Dad thats exciting! Im glad you won the contract. It sounds like you are going to have a lot of fun for the next few years. I hope everything goes smoothly - lets just hope the government stays out of the way as much as possible ;-)
It was great talking to everyone on the phone for Christmas. I think its funny how it seemed like you all were just in the other room. I havent seen my family for over 18 months but when whenever we talk on the phone its like no time has passed at all. If it werent for the fact that theres a new baby that wasnt there before and Kendall now sounds like an adult ;-) I might think nothing has changed at all. It was definitely the highlight of my christmas!
Today we went with a member family to see Jesus's grave. Apparently Jesus and his brother Isukiri are buried here in the mountains of Hachinohe. There are two graves with crosses sticking out of the ground and a buddhist shrine dedicated to Jesus to prove it. It was pretty interesting. But what was really interesting is the village at the base of the hill is called Herai machi and there are a lot of families that live around there named Herai. Herai is the Japanese form of the word hebrew. Also there are paintings from hundreds of years ago that depict brown haired fair skinned village people living in the area. Pretty weird...
But after that we went to a uma shop and had grilled uma and uma sashimi. In case you are wondering...uma means horse. Yep thats right - we ate horse sashimi...raw horse meat. And it was surprisingly really good. It was really soft and actually kind of sweet. Nothing like anything Ive eaten before. Do they sell horse meat in America? I have never heard of it...
Things are going really well. We have a ton of good investigators and we are teaching lots and lots of lessons. Its a fun time to be a missionary right now. One of the most prepared people I have ever met is getting bapized in two weeks. His name is Anjiki san. We met him 3 weeks ago and every time we meet him his faith just blows me away. He is so excited to learn about the restored gospel. He just wants to know everything - he cant get enough. Every time he learns something new he goes home, prays about it, and then comes back and says "I got my answer. Its true. What else can you tell me?" Its amazing. We are all excited for his baptism - especially the branch. They are kind of lacking in able priesthood holders so they are so excited to welcome such a strong faithful potential leader into the branch. We are so blessed!
I love you! I hope everyone has a good time watching Alabama beat Texas! Talk to you next week!
Love, Elder Brendan Kingsford
Akemashite Omedeto Gozaimasu - or as we say in English...HAPPY NEW YEARS!!
That is so cool Josh got to come for New Years and chow down on Dads famous gyouza. Has everyone recovered from the gyouza burps yet? I hope you and he had a great time together. I miss him a lot. Tell him Im looking forward to the 2011 anual Kingsford Family/Josh Bell gyouza party. It will be the first time weve had the whole clan together in a while...it should be fun!
Also Dad thats exciting! Im glad you won the contract. It sounds like you are going to have a lot of fun for the next few years. I hope everything goes smoothly - lets just hope the government stays out of the way as much as possible ;-)
It was great talking to everyone on the phone for Christmas. I think its funny how it seemed like you all were just in the other room. I havent seen my family for over 18 months but when whenever we talk on the phone its like no time has passed at all. If it werent for the fact that theres a new baby that wasnt there before and Kendall now sounds like an adult ;-) I might think nothing has changed at all. It was definitely the highlight of my christmas!
Today we went with a member family to see Jesus's grave. Apparently Jesus and his brother Isukiri are buried here in the mountains of Hachinohe. There are two graves with crosses sticking out of the ground and a buddhist shrine dedicated to Jesus to prove it. It was pretty interesting. But what was really interesting is the village at the base of the hill is called Herai machi and there are a lot of families that live around there named Herai. Herai is the Japanese form of the word hebrew. Also there are paintings from hundreds of years ago that depict brown haired fair skinned village people living in the area. Pretty weird...
But after that we went to a uma shop and had grilled uma and uma sashimi. In case you are wondering...uma means horse. Yep thats right - we ate horse sashimi...raw horse meat. And it was surprisingly really good. It was really soft and actually kind of sweet. Nothing like anything Ive eaten before. Do they sell horse meat in America? I have never heard of it...
Things are going really well. We have a ton of good investigators and we are teaching lots and lots of lessons. Its a fun time to be a missionary right now. One of the most prepared people I have ever met is getting bapized in two weeks. His name is Anjiki san. We met him 3 weeks ago and every time we meet him his faith just blows me away. He is so excited to learn about the restored gospel. He just wants to know everything - he cant get enough. Every time he learns something new he goes home, prays about it, and then comes back and says "I got my answer. Its true. What else can you tell me?" Its amazing. We are all excited for his baptism - especially the branch. They are kind of lacking in able priesthood holders so they are so excited to welcome such a strong faithful potential leader into the branch. We are so blessed!
I love you! I hope everyone has a good time watching Alabama beat Texas! Talk to you next week!
Love, Elder Brendan Kingsford
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