Week 6, Transfer Week! 2 Baptisms

Join the Photo Album if you haven't: https://photos.app.goo.gl/QuW5JQQJL6emqhb68 I had an amazing experience last Pday! Our district went on a cave tour, and it was incredible. The cave was massive, and when we turned off our flashlights, it was pitch black we couldn't see our hands in front of our faces! It was a blast with the whole district, and some people even got pretty wet and muddy. Thankfully, we all made it out alive! After the cave, we had an unexpected surprise when a member offered to take all 12 of our district's missionaries to Texas Roadhouse for dinner. It was such a fun experience, and the bill was enormous, hundreds of dollars! It was amazing to see the member's kindness and generosity in treating us to dinner. Moments like these make our mission even more special. We recently had a Blitz in State College, and it was amazing as always. I was paired with Elder Verdine, and he's an incredible missionary with a powerful conversion story. He's so open about his struggles, and it's inspiring to see. We had a fantastic time walking the streets and meeting new people. One highlight was when a group of ladies approached us, curious about our message. They were genuinely interested in learning more, which doesn't happen often. The next person we met with was also eager to come to church and learn more, it was like the Lord was smiling down on us. Two finds in a row was definitely a highlight of the day. I also loved spending time with the university elders and getting advice on some challenges I've been facing. They're all so amazing, and I feel grateful to be serving alongside them. One miracle that really stood out to me this week was when I felt prompted to say a prayer in the middle of the street, asking to find someone willing to talk to us. The next person we met was Brittany, and she was incredible, so interested in learning more about the Book of Mormon and growing her faith. It's amazing to see how God answers our prayers and is always there for us. I'm overjoyed to share with you that we finally baptized Derrick and Greyson after weeks of lessons and preparation. It was an incredibly spirit-filled day that I'll always treasure. Both Derrick and Greyson were understandably nervous about taking this step, but as soon as they were baptized, the Spirit brought them peace and joy. It was beautiful to see the Lord's power and love at work in their lives. I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to be a part of their journey and to see the Lord's work unfolding in the Johnstown area. I've been deeply enjoying my scripture study in the Gospel of Luke. It's amazing to see the detail and care that the Lord took in recording the story of Jesus Christ's birth and ministry. One of the things that stands out to me is the account of Mary's journey and her experiences with Elizabeth. I love how Luke captures the nuances of their relationship and the tender moments they shared. Mary's faith and obedience shine through in her willingness to travel from Nazareth to Judah to visit Elizabeth and share in her joy. I'm also fascinated by the story of Elizabeth's miraculous pregnancy after being infertile, and Mary's own miraculous experience with the birth of Jesus Christ. The way Luke weaves these stories together is truly masterful. I've also been reflecting on my time on the mission so far. My "Click Day" was on Saturday, which marks two months since I started my mission. It's crazy to think about how fast time has flown by. With Transfer Week approaching, I'm excited to see who will be coming and going and the new opportunities that come with change. We're also expecting a special visit from Elder Neil L. Anderson, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, this Saturday. Our mission president has been encouraging us to prepare spiritually and to be worthy to receive counsel from Elder Anderson. He's emphasized the importance of being humble and receptive to the Lord's message, and I'm looking forward to hearing Elder Anderson's words of wisdom and being spiritually nourished. I'm grateful for the opportunity to hear from a prophet's messenger and to be reminded of the importance of staying close to the Lord.

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