Hello Sandy

Hey Everybody!

So I forgot to mention last week that we had a trip to Charleston on Tuesday for my last Zone Leader Council. Which just so happened to correspond with the land fall of Hurricane Sandy. So we left BV at 5:30am that morning with the Lexington zone leaders with us. Through Virginia we had several small flurries and it was chilly, but not too bad. As we climbed in elevation up to West Virginia conditions got worse and snow started to stick. The ploughs hadn't made it out yet so we were left to travel in the ruts of the few cars and trucks who'd gone a head of us. On one particular section of road we noticed that the other side of the median that both lanes were blocked by trucks who'd lost traction climbing a hill and remained stationary. There was no going back anytime soon. Shortly after we received an text from the assistants stating that President Obama declared that West Virginia was in a sate of emergency and that our Zone meeting was cancelled. After we informed them that there was no turning back President told all those who were on there way to Charleston to continue on and take our time. Lets just say that we made it there safely, but Mud and Sand tires just don't cut it in winter driving. 

Power was out at both the Mission office and the Mission home. We ended up having a modified zone meeting once all of us had arrived safely. We were informed that we'd be spending at least the night in Charleston till things cleared up. After our meeting we went to the mission home and had one of the best days I've had in the mission. President taught us some doctrine in a level of depth I had never even considered. Elder Holder and I went with the Assistants to Target to get some lights for the night as we only had a flashlight, 1 candle and my headlamp. After returning we ate burgers from the barbecue then gathered in the Living room for a Testimony meeting. It had been years since I'd had such a powerful and intimate meeting with these Elders Which had become my brothers. Truly one of the most sacred experiences of my life to sit in a dark room with some of the greatest and hear each bear testimony of Christ and how he'd shaped each of us to become far more than we ever thought we'd be. At the close we settled down to bed and went to bed being full both temporally and spiritually. By the Next morning things had cleared up and we were permitted to return to our areas. 

The Rest of the week has been interesting. I've never been one to count down the days, but when its this close there's not much you can do about it, realizing that this may be the last time I do this or that. Thankfully I'm surrounded by good friends who've been able to help me keep going. We had an exchange with Roanoke where Elder Muirbrook came back to BV to spend a day with me. We were the oldest companionship in the mission at that time. It was pretty cool.

Jack and Sunny are both stoked for their baptisms next week! Jacks will be at 10am and Sunny's at 7:30. Its going to be an awesome anniversary. This last week its going to be weird but I think I'll make it alright. Speaking of which, much too do. Little time! 

Much Love!

Elder Sunada

So much to do and so little time

HOWDY! 

So Before even going to my emails today I had to check out lds.org for the Calgary Alberta Temple announcement! Found out that President Monson Himself dedicated the temple yesterday!! Luckily there were several news clips of the cultural celebration and the cornerstone placement. I even saw Logan and Adam O'Brien singing in a video! I can't wait to go see it myself. I also noticed that there's a good covering of snow, something I've been missing out on. I think I saw more snow in those few pictures than I have in my whole 2 years here. Thankfully there's good news on the way! Well, maybe thats a little selfish seeing as I'm getting excited about a Hurricane followed by a cold front. I'm glad for the proper weather for the season, however I've been told that this could really mess things up on the coast itself. We've only heard bits of whats happening, but we know that much has been evacuated. Hopefully all the preparations will save many lives and what property they can. 

This past week has been pretty sweet. Interviews with Pres, My last one till I sit in his office the night before I go home. So it was a pretty simple one saying that we'll talk more then. Tuesday was our P-day. on Wednesday we got up early and headed for Roanoke to hear Elder Scott D. Whitting of the 70. It was incredible. He spoke to us so directly. One of the things that stood out in my mind was his talk of how little we were aware of going on in the church. The work of the Lord is truly being Hastened and such exciting things are happening. I feel that we are about to embark on an age in the church in this dispensation that hasn't matched since the early days of the Restoration. We will cease to exist in obscurity to the world. I'm anxious for what great things shall happen. I'm saddened that I won't be on the front lines of the mission field for it, but I hope that my efforts have steadied the foundation for the work. 

After the main conference the Zone Leaders and a few other select missionaries were invited to meet with Elder Whitting in a smaller setting for some more personal council and question/answers period. I felt very humbled to be so blessed by this opportunity. I learned things that expanded my knowledge and increased my light. It was a profound experience. Reflecting on my mission I've realized that I've been privileged to be in the presence of many general Authorities. Elder Pieper, Elder Jay E. Jensen, Elder Lancing, and Elder Whiting of the Seventy, Elder Neil L Anderson and Elder Jeffery R. Holland of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles, and this coming week we'll be hearing from Russell T. Osguthorpe, General President of the Sunday School. Its been Truly amazing. 

The work in BV has been going well enough. Due to everything going on we had less proselyting time, but we still had some great lessons with Jack. He's so excited for his Baptism and he's determined not to let anything get in the way of the new found happiness in his life. We're Stoked for him! There's much to do here and so little time to do it. I've also seen other blessings come this week in others coming to me and sharing spiritual experiences. Man. I'm going to miss this. Gotta make the most of the time I got left so I'd better be going on now! 

Much Loves!

Elder Sunada

PS: Beka Rayburn Bids everyone back in Canada Hello! {She secretly wishes she was Canadian ;) }

Word.

This week History has been made. We finally achieved the Missions Standard of Excellence! This is a first not only for this area, but the zone, as well as a new personal record. The Standard of Excellence are the base goals that we strive for as set by President Pitt in the areas of Finding, teaching and setting people with Baptismal dates. Not only did we meet it, but we exceeded it. But it was not so much that we are any good, rather that we were favoured and blessed of the Lord this week. We picked up and taught 4 new people, each with a strong desire to learn more and feel closer to God. At the start of the week we had set up 3 of these people to begin teaching. Then one day while we were filling time during a missed appointment I spotted a student who I knew wasn't a member. It'd been the first time I'd seen her since the beginning of the school year so I struck up a conversation. Assuming that she was a member, Elder Holder straight out asked if we could meet with her. Without missing a beat she agreed! Without knowing it, she'd also attended General Conference and felt really good about going. Somethings you just can't plan out that well, but The Lord is pretty darn good at it. Its so exciting to be serving right now. 

This morning we Got up early to go to the Butler home where newly called "ELDER Wesley Butler" was getting his suitcases together for his flight to Salt Lake City. He reports to the MTC on Wednesday. He gave a stellar talk yesterday. Elder Holder and I talked before him but he straight up blew us out of the Water. I'm excited to hear what great things he'll do as he serves in the Los Angeles Mission, Spanish speaking. It almost makes me wish I was just going out instead of going home. 

I did celebrate a little bit of Canadian Thanksgiving. One of our ward mission leaders is Canadian and after our Coordination on Monday he took us down to Subway where I got a Turkey Sandwich. Even with that I still felt pretty Grateful for everything God's given me. 

It looks like this week shouldn't be too out of the ordinary. We have a zone meeting but we're holding it in Buena Vista and afterwards I'm going on exchanges but staying here. The following week however is pretty messed up. We have President interviews on Monday, which means P-Day and emails will be pushed till Tuesday, then on Wednesday half the mission is meeting in Roanoke to hear Elder Scott D. Whitting of the 70 to speak to us. I'm pretty stoked. He spoke in General conference about Temples. Then in the following weeks will be more exchanges and at the end of the month another trip to Charleston for what will be my last Zone Leaders Council. Its going to be a wild ride to the end and I'm going to love every minute of it!

Love Yall,

Elder Sunada

Llamas! ...actually, they're Alpacas‏

Haha so its been a pretty crazy week. We've had a few pretty important meetings with the Stake and Mission Presidents, zone and also our activities committee. It was great to finally be able to sit down with the YSA stake presidency and President Pitt to talk about exactly what we are trying to do. The comforting thing was at least we weren't the only ones who where still struggling to figure that out. There are a lot of special circumstances around this particular stake and no one's really experienced with what's going on so we are all pioneering in our own callings and trying to figure out the "how" of what we are doing. But we're off to a good start. I think the most flustering part for me personally is the paperwork. Not only is the stake new but the wards are constantly changing with the school year. Trying to keep track of where people are is a nightmare. We've been trying to go around and talk to members from the conventional wards as well as the YSA's to see if they know people who we can see. The Records are scattered everywhere! Its going to take a while to clean that up but at least it gives us something productive to do! 

Another great perk of being a YSA missionary is going to activities! We've made appearances at water fights, service projects, A paint Dodgeball fight, and this week coming up our first Stake Social Ice cream in Maury River Park! Its strange being around people my own age again. Especially now that I'm 21 and considered an Adult by the State. Just a weird thought in my mind. 

So I'll share a quick story of how some of our adventures go. We had a name on a list of a YSA who's been inactive for a little while. We Got Thomas, an SVU student, To come along with us to find this guy. We had an address but the GPS couldn't find where he was. So we got some mixed directions from several members and started off on what would be a 2 and a half hour hunt to find our friend. Finally we found what we were looking for. An Alpaca Farm. Yup. Llamas. But Not who we were looking for. His family owned the place but he lived somewhere else. The good news is now we know how to find him! So goes some days. 

Oh! And we got a visit from the Covingtons for lunch this week! It was good to see some familiar faces again from Good ole Gretna. I hope to be able to see that town once more before I leave the mission, God Willing. 


Well I think that's All I have time for this week! 


Love ya!
Elder Sunada


Dana's Note: SORRY for the font/color weirdness on the blog!!!! I have been on a few times to try and get to the bottom of it but somehow it cannot stay fixed! I'll keep trying, stay tuned! 

ZL Conference

This has been quite the ride so far. I don't think my planner has ever been so full. 


Last week was pretty sweet. I was invited to go along to the Zone Leader Council, even though I wasn't a zone leader. I found out the night before too which was cool because the original plan was for me to stay in BV with the other Elders for the day. But Monday night we got together with the other zone leaders and drove to White Sulfur Springs to stay the night so we wouldn't have to get so early to make it to Charleston in time for the meeting. 


White Sulfur Springs is a small town just on the West Virginia side of the Border and is mostly known for its proximity to the PGA Green briar. But we'd have to be driving on past it. More important business was ahead. The Meeting itself was an eye opener as to how the mission really worked. It was especially interesting because most of the participants, including myself, were there for the first time. President had used the craziness of the last transfer to hand pick exactly who he wanted to lead the mission. And I don't think he could have pick a finer group. I knew many of those that sat in the circle. I have served around a lot of them and knew that they were solid in both Testimony and Deed. This ZLC was a special one. It was time for the mission to make some changes and President now had a group of faithful elders to do it. 


We reviewed that the mission had increased in our teaching and finding skills, but we were still not reaching our goals. He taught us how he received the revelation what needed to happen. He brought several things to our attention then turned it over to the council of Elders to determine what we should do about it. Many things were rough on us as we heard that we needed to changes some of the traditions of the mission that we had always been accustomed to. Even those that had always been accepted as okay. But as we sat there each of us received a witness that those were not only things that we could change, but things that we must so that the Lord could bless us more fully. In simple words, we committed to be Exactly obedient to all mission rules, and to be examples to the rest of the mission. We were to define the mission culture and chose that day the direction the rest of our missions would take. It was the most inspired meeting I have ever been in and driving home our attitudes were positive. We talked about things that we were excited to get rid of and habits that we were happy to drop. President Pitt is truly inspired. 


This week we have even more training meetings and 2 meetings with the Stake to determine the role we will play in building the stake. It's way exciting. 


Oh no! I have to Run! Love you all! Can't wait to share more! One of the things I've committed to do is to only email family as is outlined in the guidelines so I if you want to hear from me personally you'll have to write! 


love yal! 
Elder Sunada

Buena Vista!‏

I love it Here!! Oh my gosh Its going to take several weekly emails to explain how cool this area is. But I guess I should go back to leaving Parkersburg first.

We got to visit a few more of the families which we'd come to love, Never getting enough time to spend with them as we'd like. It was pretty rushed in the last few days. Not only we're we being doubled out, But Sisters were being doubled in. President told me to make sure the apartment was fit for their arrival. And I'll be darned if that apartment has looked better in years! We tried to clean everything we could down to the baseboards. I spent about 4 hours shampooing the carpets, which is pretty crazy considering the apartments not really all that big. I did get a confirming report from the Sisters a few days ago that it was satisfactory and they approved of the many sticky notes we left to fill them in on everything. Sister Scannel, whom I've met a few times before is training a new Sister, who is very nice and I think will do well to take care of my old area. So Its all in good hands :)

Transfers. This was probably one of the most exciting transfers I've ever been too. Perhaps one of the most exciting transfers to happen since President Pitts been here. 20 missionaries going home! That means at least those twenty areas plus that need to be moved around. We filled up the whole chapel with Missionaries! It was Crazy. I'm going to miss them a lot. On the Drive down to Buena Vista (Pronounced BYU-NA Vista) I got to meet some of the Elders I'd be serving with in the Rockbridge district. Its Stacked! There are 4 of us that came out together, Gurney, Allred, Muirbrook, and Myself, And the other elders are Way solid Preach My Gospel Missionaries! We room with Elder Muirbrook and Elder Kieren, who was just trained by Elder Leah, so he's clearly a stud. Its been so much fun living with them! And the zone leaders live in the apartment building next to us! WILD!

So some clarification on our assignment. Elder Gurney is THE Zone leader for the Buena Vista Young Single Adult Zone. President may add another later on but for now he's it! We are covering one family ward and the consolidated YSA ward in the area during the summer, then when Classes get back in we will be covering 3 of the 6 YSA wards! Our priority even now is focus on the YSA and so far it has blow my mind! I've never seen anything like it in the mission. Part of what makes it so great are all the Return missionaries in the area who are stoked to go out with us and continue sharing the Gospel. Everyone who I've met has been so great so far! And With most people being students they are way more flexible to see us or schedule appointments with us. Its definitely a big change, but its been made easy by the willingness of the YSA's. 

We also have unheard of resources at our hands thanks to the high concentration of members and the Faculties of SVU. For instance, UNLIMITED FREE LIBRARY COMPUTER USAGE!! No more time clocks or restricted access. SVU holds its students to an Honour code system which grants them many liberties so long as they're living the rules. Its Kinda like BYU, but with its own flair. This past weekend they had a education week conference where many lds Scholars and well known members spoke. These included Brad Wilcox, Elder Ridges who's published over 20 books, President Hinckley's daughter and the Author of President Monson's Biography "to the Rescue" were speakers. I'll have to fill in more about the university itself as I become more acquainted with it. But They are very supportive of everything we do and help supply us with anything we need. 
I told President this week that I believe This area is the best Kept secret in the mission. 

We've also got a decent teaching Pool. There are a few people in the family ward who we have started to work with as well as at least 3 solid investigators who fall into the YSA Category. One of them we just picked up yesterday. A member invited a kid he worked with to dinner with us then we shared a lesson. We've got feedback that he really enjoyed it and had a great time! We also stared working with one less active who hadn't been to church in 4 years...He was there yesterday and said that it felt really good. Also he made a commitment to a friend (who may have been a cute girl) that he would come every week. At first that was a little concerning, but he's also shown desires that he truly does want to change and have the peace of the Gospel back in his life. Already so much has been happening and we've been greatly blessed. This is the busiest I've been with appointments every hour of our day. I can't wait to see what else will happen here in Buena Vista! 


Its Truly a Great Day in the Kingdom!
Elder Sunada

Stake Conference

Yesterday was the Charleston Stake Conference, so we got a ride down to Sissionsvile which is where the stake center is. Upon arriving we got to meet up with a few of the other missionaries from the Zone prior to the meeting. I met one of the New Elders named Elder Nelson from Mapleton UT and struck up a conversation. It was strange in a way to see someone so fresh out, on his 11th day in the field. Still full of "greenie fire" and still learning so much everyday. I saw a bit of me almost a year and a half ago. To see how much change has occurred since those early days amazes me sometimes. He was a good kid and I hope I'll be able to get to know him better in the coming months.

The talks during the conference itself were wonderful! There was one where a woman from a Small branch just south of Parkersburg talked about how she shared the Gospel through her everyday living. It was so clear by the way she talked and the ways she showed love to her friends how strong her testimony was. Also Pres and Sis Pitt spoke.

Sister Pitt focused on the Book of Mormon and what a powerful record it was. She said that having the Book in our home was not enough. Simply reading it would not be enough. Until we actually apply the teachings contained in that book its full impact will not be felt.

President spoke on many things which hit me in particular. He shared the story of a young man who's Family was from Japan. His Father had served a mission and when the family had moved to America they always wanted their oldest son to serve a mission to Japan. When his mission call came it was for Columbia. He continued to serve faithfully and in the last months of his mission a man of Japanese Decent approached him and asked him in Broken Spanish if he was a missionary for the Church. He replied in his Native Japanese that he was and arranged a time to visit the mans family and some friends. At their appointment there were 64 Japanese who he was able to teach. They had a old worn copy of the Book of Mormon they had carried with them for years and were waiting for someone to teach them more about it. All 64 were baptised by this Elder. Before he left they asked him to sign their original copy. In the Front of the book he found the most power testimony written that he'd ever read. It was Signed by his Father. President Pitts testimony of this experience was that God was more loving than we could even understand. We can't always see how his hand is at play in all things. Though I'd heard this story before it struck me in particular. It made me want to be sure to always do what I can that I can be an effective tool in our Father's hand to do those things, and find those people who he has sent me here to find, and to gain the experiences I will need to bless others.

Though its hard I try to commit myself every day to do better. I Love the mission, And my Family and the Lord for everything that I have.

love,

Elder Sunada

Upcoming Baptism!

Hey Everyone!

 

So We're excited for this upcoming Saturday!! The Baptism is just about all ready to go pending one final interview. And we're so excited for Marilyn! She's excited too, except for the actual part of getting her head below water. That Kinda freaks her out. But With a few prayers I'm confident that we'll get through it and it will be a more than positive experience. The ward has been really great with helping her out too and showing great support. It makes such a difference when ward members treat everyone who comes in the doors with welcome and love. Of course this is the way it should always be, though sometimes people are prone to judge. Its easy to do and we've all been guilty of it. But I've really tried to focus on how Heavenly Father see's them. He knows they need to be there and is trying to support them. Especially for those who look out of place its so important to make them feel welcome.

 

Yesterday we also had a missionary Fireside where we showed the film (with proper permission) 17 Miracles by T.C. Christianson about the Willie and Martin Handcart companies. It was a decent turn out. Marilyn and one other investigator were there. But it was also interesting to see who else was there to support the event. One thing I've noticed is there's certain people in every ward who are always there. The Church to them isn't something they go to or what they do. Its who they are. Its everything to them and they give everything to help it. They really know what the Gospel means and the debt that they owe to their God. I hope that I'll always be one who realizes the importance of this Gospel.

 

We also had a great Zone meeting last Thursday. President Pitt is such a great teacher and knows how to drive a point deep. We also did some role plays practicing different parts of teaching. The points we taught didn't stand out to me as much as the spirit I felt. I've made an effort to have the spirit be a bigger part of my lessons with my investigators. There's no greater feeling than the Love of God.

 

Gotta Run! Love Y'all!

 

Elder Sunada

 

 

 

In the Twinkling of an eye...

Hey!

 

Ok yes, I know. I'm a day late. Again. But I have a good reason!! I was in Charleston most of Yesterday and didn't have a chance to write. But I'll start at the top of the week.

 

During the First part of the week things were going pretty normal. Had some good lessons and Elder Heiner and I were getting more accustomed to getting around by bike. The work was going well and we stayed pretty busy. Thursday however Elder Moreang became pretty sick. It was decided that he would stay in our apartment with one of us while the other two Elders would take the car and try to make the appointments of both North and South Parkersburg. So I spent all of Friday and half of Saturday inside taking care of him. I figured it was only fair as He'd done so for me when I was recovering. It was also a great chance to get some cooking practice in! I made several meals for all of us so the Others could come, eat and run. Did some good cleaning, and took a well needed nap. Thankfully he got better by Sunday morning and things went by normally for Church. We even had 2 investigators and a Random who showed up and said we could teach him!

 

After returning home from Church however we got a phone Call. Elder Heiner answered. It was President. He would be at our apartment in 45mins so sit tight. After he hung up we sat there looking at each other. "Did you commit any large or grievous Sins lately?". Nope. Hmm. Its always a little unnerving when President says he's stopping by Randomly. Last time it happened I was informed that Grandpa had passed away. We waited somewhat uneasily to hear what News or rebuking we would get. I'll confirm right now that we didn't do anything bad! Turns out it was something quite different.

 

They Showed up around 3. When he walked into the door he gave us only a brief greeting then said he needed to meet with us both privately. He and Elder Heiner went up stairs while Sister Pitt and I talked about missionaries and mission experience. After about 10 or 15 mins Elder Heiner came down and we exchanged places. Presidents opening words to me after a prayer were "Now the Elders down in Russel are having some problems..." I knew that could only mean one thing. Emergency Transfer. Either Elder Heiner or I would be leaving Parkersburg, and soon. They were both good Elders who just really struggled with each others personalities for even the remaining week before Transfers. President Explained that after giving the situation considerable thought and prayer he felt it right that Elder Heiner should go and Replace Elder Penn in Russel, and that Elder Penn would join me here in Parkersburg. We were to meet in Charleston at 9am Monday morning. I admit I was a bit shocked. Elder Heiner and I had accomplished so much together. We had worked hard to build an area that had only 2 people to a whiteboard full of investigators and potential contacts. Also we'd come a long ways in our personal journeys. We'd both been tried and tested together and Also built a great Friendship. It was going to be sad to see him leave so suddenly.

 

And then there was Elder Penn. I've actually served around Elder Penn in Lynchburg. He was one of my District leaders there just before I left. He's from Ventura California and is a Recent Convert of 3 years. Part way through his mission he had to go home and get spinal surgery. He returned a few months later and has been working on adapting to the mission again. There's a good reason why they don't like sending us home half way through. Its always hard to find your place again once you've been released and called again. I'm not sure if its comforting to know that President trusts me enough to put me in difficult circumstances haha. But If I do know anything its that I can trust that He is the Lords servant, and this is the Lords will. I've seen it many times that President Pitt is inspired to lead this mission. In fact in this past transfer has been the most successful Transfer the mission has ever seen. He's been inspired to send me help even though he had no idea I was struggling. I know that whatever comes of all this It will work out.

 

The Other Missionaries joined us for his last night of packing and getting things ready for the following day. I got to bed pretty late and up early to drive. We got to the mission home and made the exchange. For Elder Heiner even though he hated leaving Parkersburg he did get one perk. He's serving with Elder Rollins, whom he'd served with near the beginning of his mission. He told many stories about him and is excited for this rare exception of getting to reserve with a old companion.

 

The first order of Business Elder Penn and I had was to get new tires for the car. The steel wires were showing on one of the tires and the rest were pretty bald. We had said a prayer going down that they'd last us till Charleston. Waiting for the tires gave us some time to walk around and catch some lunch together. He was way excited to serve with me, and despite his exuberance of energy at times, I was kinda grateful for him too. I knew it was going to be an interesting Transition (for instance last night, he likes it really cold when he sleeps. I froze out but we'll work through that) He also has the most Baptisms in the mission at 26. There is much excitement about it all!

 

Before heading back to Parkersburg there was one other thing we had to do. We walked into the ICU at Charleston Memorial to go Visit Scott Walker, The Very man who met me in a hospital bed a few months before. He'd had a heart attack at a stake dance the weekend previous. He was grateful to see us and we gave him another blessing. It was nice to be able to pay him back in a way.

 

Well my times up. I love you all. Always be grateful for the challenges God gives us to Grow.

Elder Sunada

 

 

 

 

 

Highs & Lows

What a Crazy week. Its been the highest of highs, to the lowest of lows and back again. 

 

The week started off pretty well. We had a great PDay chilling with the South Elder before Elder Reidhead would be transferred. We also had a lesson set up with Carlos and a Spanish speaking member to help us out. Well that didn't go so well. In fact, it was one of the hardest experiences on my mission thus far. Due to a strange and sad series of events, Carlos decided to drop us. I was pretty crushed. I'd already come to love the guy and wanted to much to help him out. But Satan has a way of entering into people hearts and turning them away. Elder Heiner had been feeling down already due to some pretty nasty doors and just general lack of success in this area. After Carlos, I was pretty low too. 

 

We got up Wednesday morning, neither having much to say or to do with each other. It was just a depressing day. I felt so helpless in knowing what to do besides pray and read the scriptures. It helped, but the weight of the previous days events still hung heavy over us. I had to make it to a doctors appointment in order to be officially discharged from the Doctors care. On the way there we got a unexpected phone call from the Assistants. Elder Leah would be staying with us for a few days. Most people had expected for Elder Leah to be released from assistant since he's been there quite a while, but instead a new one was called and they became a Tripanionship (3 serving together). We soon learnt why. After my appointment we picked him up and headed back. We went out to work, but were still dragging around our pity party balloons by our heels. Thanks to his motivation we were still able to make a successful evening out of it.

 

The next morning during Weekly planning he addressed us forwardly. President Pitt had sent him to Evaluate the area because of its struggles over the past year. It had picked up since Elder Heiner and I have been together but we still weren't producing much fruit. But Elder Leah wasn't sent to rebuke us. He came to build us up and improve where we'd fallen short. It was still a tough pill for us to swallow, and a very humbling experience, but it also came as an answer to many prayers. Not only did it come at an Ideal time to build us up at our lowest of lows, but I'd been praying for months to the Lord to help make me a more effective missionary. I'll admit, this is the hardest work I've ever had to do. Its draining physically, mentally and emotionally. It makes getting up at 6:30am to work in the cold at the concrete pipe plant seem like child's play. I was in good spirits, but still knowing that I was not achieving my potential when it mattered most. But the Lord Answered my prayers. He just had to bring my low enough to do it. I don't know that if Carlos hadn't dropped us if I'd have been as willing to take Elder Leah's Advice. But I'm glad it all worked out the way it did.

 

Even more so because since we had that meeting, the Lord has blessed us. We went out and worked hard all that day and the day after and I saw more success than I've ever seen. We have 3 new investigators, 3 baptismal dates, 10 Books of Mormon given out, and a list of over 10 people to go back and Visit. This has been the hardest week of my mission, but it has also been my best. Funny how that works. I Know I'm still going to struggle at becoming a better missionary, and with people dropping us and low times, but I know too that the Lord has my back and I can always rely on him. Its built my testimony and given me strength to carry on. 

 

Thank you for all the prayers that come my way from home. I Love each one and need them.

 

Love Elder Sunada

 

Yo Hablo Espanol?‏

Its been pretty fun this past week trying to keep on top of things. I think I mentioned that We were teaching a man named Carlos, and yes, he is Mexican. Which is way sweet!! I love teaching and working with the Brown brothers! Its really fun too because though he understands most of what we say, he doesn't speak very well. Likewise with my Spanish I can get what he's trying to say most of the time, but I know I'm butchering all of the grammar and congregations of verbs. But its ok. We both get our points across for the most part and he really loves us coming over. We will be going over tonight with a member who served a Spanish speaking mission in California and are going to extend a baptismal invitation! So its way exciting. 

 

A few weeks ago we got a referral from Pres. Pitt to go visit a man he talked to in Taco Bell. President Pitt is an awesome example because he's never hesitant to share the Gospel where ever he goes. We only got the Address for the man who happened to live in Walker West Virginia which is in the Rural part of our area. Looking on the map we tried to decided the best way to get there. Either A: take the long way on the highway, or B: take a back road and save miles. We of course chose B and decided to go on an adventure. We ended going up and over several mountains on a one lane pot-hole-and-gravel road out in the Boonies. It was way fun to drive don't get me wrong, but I decided there could probably be a more effective way to work. So I gave in and bought a GPS. And actually I think it will be worth it. I went through and uploaded the ward roster on it so we always know where the members are and who we can work with in a specific area. I don't need it much for getting around in the city but its proven helpful in finding country homes and points of interest. Found out there's a Lebanese restaurant downtown I would like to try out! Cultured food yay!

 

Also Friday was an exciting time in the mission as we had Elder Pieper of the 70 come to Address us. It was a long meeting lasting nearly 8 hours of teaching. Half of the mission met in Charleston and the Rest met the next day in Roanoke. He spoke to us on many topics including Finding the Elect, How to use Missionary work to bless the Members, and how to use peoples desires to help them make Righteous covenants with God. It was an intense meeting and I have already been able to start applying the principles that he gave us. I think one of the coolest things about being instructed in missionary work is I've never been instructed on tactics to convince people the Gospel is true. Its always been things more along the lines of "Learn to love them to open their hearts", "Listen closely to the Spirit for what to say", "Serve others as much as possible, Regardless of their interest in the Message".  There's a wonderful quote from Elder Packer of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles which goes something like this:

"A study of true doctrine will do more to help improve behaviour, than a study of Behaviour will improve behaviour."

I've come to know that that's a true statement and I've seen it work. We are taught to apply principles in our lives, so that we can become more effective in the lives of others. Everything else I've had to learn by experience. The knocking on doors, talking to people in the Street, making more than awkward phone calls. Not much in the manual on that. But that's also been the fun part of it too. 

 

We also had some rough doors this past week. Every now and then we get one that is particularly unpleasant and we have to remind our selves that even Christ himself was persecuted. The very Son of God was hated for his Testimony and rejected by his own. Are the Servants better than the Master? Always a humbling thought. 

 

Its Transfers tomorrow, but I will be staying here with Elder Heiner. I'm stoked. We have some Great "Compunity". Sisters will be doubling out the Elders in Marietta and Elder Dailey will Replace Elder Reidhead in Parkersburg south. So some interesting changes in the District but that should be ok too. I think Thats all.

 

Love ya!

Elder Sunada

 

Signs of Faith

We have had an Awesome week!! We worked hard, we got Results. It was a lot of fun too! 

 

We've been working to rebuild the area, after nearly a year of little success or prospects. Most of our work has been finding. Knocking on doors, Asking for referrals, street contacting. Things that take a lot of time and often offer few results. But we've been blessed for our diligence. 

 

We chose a few main drags down which we would knock out, as well as look up less active members and former investigators. Pres. Pitt as well as the Zone leaders challenged us to try what they called 2x2x2. Which was that whenever we have an appointment fall through, instead of just moving on to the next appointment knock 2 doors on the right, left, and across the street. Its worked with astounding success. First we found a couple who invited us in right away and was entirely open to our message of how Familes can live forever. We had more success when trying a less active who was not home, but finding 2 potentials to try next week, one of which i feel very good about. And a few weeks ago we tried a referral given to us by a drunk guy on the Bus to visit him. It was a bogus address, but it led us to Carlos. We stopped in and followed up Saturday morning and came at just the right time. He was Lonely and wanted to serve God better. He agreed right away to come to church and DID the very next day. 

Pretty exciting stuff. 

 

I'll have to fill in more as my computer is beeping 40secs left on my session. Its been so great to finally see some good things coming here. Love you all. Love the Lord. 

 

Elder Sunada

Preparing with President‏

Howdy!

 

Thing have been picking up here in Parkersburg North. We've been able to hit the Streets some more, Set up more appointments, and work with the Ward a little better. Tracting in Parkersburg has been a little different. I don't have to walk 10 mins between houses. People have a peculiar way of greeting you on the streets. Some even take the time to shout various Greetings as they drive by in the car. We ride the bus occasionally when we don't have the car, and you get to see the "regulars" or people who buy a Bus pass and ride around on the buses and public libraries for a profession. So far my favourite is a man We've nicknamed "Humbug" Because he's always talking to the drivers and Calls them Humbug. "Been a long Day humbug?", "Rainy weather aint it Humbug?", "You looking forwardward to getting off today Humbug?". It keeps the rest of the the passengers amused, or just annoyed. In any case, I'm hoping to be able to report a few more people we'll be teaching next week. Currently we have a Woman named Goldie. Our main man Craig Dropped us last week because he had too much going on in his life. But I have a feeling he'll be talking to Missionaries again in the Future so no big worries. 

 

Saturday was President interveiws! Its always a good chance to talk to president one on one. I do like being closer to Mission HQ so I have just a slightly higher interaction with him now. Pres. Pitt always has the right way to encourage me to press myself to do better and help others. After talking with him, I'm determined to get a few baptisms while in Parkersburg. And within the next Transfer. I know the man is lead by inspiration and the Holy Ghost because of the way he knows just what to ask and the way I always feel love in his Voice. I would love to be able to be that in Tune with the Spirit. I guess I've got a few years to catch up to him though haha. 

 

In the coming month we're also supposed to have another General Authority visit the mission and direct his time Towards missionaries!! Elder Pieper of the 70 will be spending the better part of the day instructing the WVCM in both Group and individual settings. We've been super blessed to have to much interaction with the GA's of the Church. Maybe even a little bit spoiled. In any case, I'm trying to do my best to finish reading the scriptures we've been assigned. 

 

Also I had Sis. Poole of the ward inform me that a Relative of mine had given a letter to her Husband! Apparently I live in a small world. I haven't gotten it yet but I'm very excited to. The Lord has blessed me in so many ways I don't even know how to count them. I'm so Grateful for being able and well enought to serve and only hope to do better. 

 

Love,

Elder Sunada

 

Another Great Trip to Charleston!‏

Again I'm a day late, I know. There is a legitimate reason however. Due to the American Thanksgiving this week out P-Day was split up for Monday Morning, And Thanksgiving Evening. Yesterday we needed to get Laundry done and I didn't get around to an email so we've made a quick trip to the Library today. Thursday We'll be enjoying a feast with the Rainville Family and I'm pretty stoked for that.

So Last week was a great one! We went up to to stay with the Bedford Elders Friday night so we could catch a ride with them to Charleston early the next morning. Its always fun to stay with other missionaries. We got up around 4:40am and stopped in Roanoke at a McD's for Breakfast where I was able to fill my Timmys mug with hot Chocolate and give out a pass along card. Great Start already! The Drive up was fairly uneventful, aside from Elder Wilder and I singing in the back seat, and we arrived in Charleston about an hour before the meeting. The WHOLE mission was there! It was Crazy! No missionary currently serving has ever had it happen in the mission so that in itself was a special event. I got to see Elders that I haven't seen since the MTC days. It was wonderful. We filled every seat in the chapel and were crammed in on the pews. I got the end seat by the aisle I knew Elder Andersen would be walking down. I thought about how cool it would be if I could shake his hand as he walked by... We studied quietly in our seats and tried to invite the spirit as we waited for him to arrive.

When he entered the room we all sood as he walked in with a warm and friendly smile. As he passed he did not shake my hand, But before even getting up to the stand it was announced that he desired to shake everyone's hand in attendance! The coolest thing is how normal and relaxed he was. He'd say a few words as you'd pass by and look at you with a beaming smile. Once the meeting was officially started he stated that he hadn't prepared any specific message for us, but that we'd be able to ask questions and the meeting would be led by the spirit. Elder Andersen was in town for the Charleston Stake Conference the following day but made a specific point to ask and see us missionaries. Also accompanying him was Elder Seldon of the 2nd Quorum of the 70 I believe. He ask if Elder Seldon would Share his conversion story and a bit of his Bio.

I can't share even a portion of the things he said, even thought I tried my best to take as many notes as I could (probably more during that time than any high school class), but I will share some of the things I feel are relevant and that stood out the most to me.

He told us to pay close attention to Pres. Pitt, and always look to his example throughout our lives. He cautioned us not to compare ourselves to others but to "compare yourself with your best self." He talked about some of the experiences with the other Apostles and Prophets. In a meeting with Pres. Monson just last week he said that it came up that he was ordained an Apostle 48 years ago, and that within a month of that occasion, Elder Andersen was ordained a Deacon at 12 years old. We all feel inadequate at times, but its important to Remember how much Christ loves us and will help us through our challenges. He went into how the Priesthood has a part in all aspects of everyone's lives. He broadened our perspective on the "Paradox of Man," in that In view of all Gods great creations we are nothing, yet we are also his Children and his most prized with the potential to become his greatest. Every Soul is of Great worth.

He encouraged us that in order to help others we must "do our best, and Keep doing it. No goodness that we do will never do anything but help. There is power in being True and Faithful. He said many more things to us that I've been pondering lately and have grown in both knowledge and spirit from. But perhaps one of the greatest things he shared with us was his Testimony of Christ, Boldy proclaiming that he was his Witness, and that He Loves each of us. The Merits of our Redeemer mean we will live again with him in Judgment and Mercy. There was no doubt in my mind that this Man was an Apostle of the Lord, who had been commissioned for the work in which he was engaged. Hearing him speak of Christ increased my testimony as well.

His Final Challenge to us was this. The question that Jesus himself posed Rhetorically to the Pharisees in Matt. 22. "What think ye of Christ?" If we truly ponder that question in our minds and hearts we will grow closer to him that brings us peace and happiness throughout the eternities. Truly it was a day to be remembered in the Mission. I hope I was able to convey at least a small part of the spirit of that meeting. I don't know the next time I'll be under the direct sound of the voice of a servant of the Lord, but I know that I'll always strive for every opportunity that presents itself to do so.

Elder Sunada

Appo!‏

Oh man I ate too much Chinese food too quickly today. The reason why I'm doing emails kinda late is because we went with the L1 Elder To Appomattox today. Its a town in there area which was were Gen. Lee surrendered with the Confederate army to the union and ended the war. It was pretty neat because up till now I haven't been able to stop and spend anytime in Civil war sites. This is a pretty important one so I was pretty stoked. A member from their area, Bro. King, took us and gave us a bit of a guided tour, then took us out to Chinese for lunch. We stopped by his place for a little while and showed us his Dairy goats. We got Some Cheese and Feta!! I'm excited to go home and eat some more later on. Anyways that's been my P-day so far. 

 

Sunday was a busy day for us in Church. It being a branch and the 5th Sunday of the Month it automatically designates us for giving talks in Sacrament meeting. I was a little worried for Elder Bolan Because he informed me that the longest talk he'd ever given was 7 mins. That was his Farewell talk. Our assignment was for 20+mins and he was to go first. So I was a little worried he was going to hang me out to dry but He did a good job and was able to pull up a solid 18 mins. I also kicked myself for sending home some of my previous talks that I've given. I could have saved them and improved upon them instead of rewriting them. I've learned. But we got through that well and I did an ok job of winging a Sunday school Lesson. Then we tried to go out and visit a bunch of less actives in Hurt, a little town on the northern edge of our area. I think we tried 7 or 8 houses and no one was home. Lame. Its always a little frustrating when you think you've got lots to do then it all fizzles out and you have to make plans on the fly. But we did alright. We finally got to the Covingtons, who fed us well and sent us on our way to Lynchburg. 

 

Earlier this week we had our first interviews with President Pitt!! It was awesome to be able to spend some time with him and his wife and get to know them a little better. He's also a great man, who's got a different style of doing things than Pres. Thornock but he's already gained my trust in his abilities to run the mission and to seek spiritual guidance from. It was awesome!

 

Oh I think I forgot to mention that a few weeks ago I had to play piano in Sacrament meeting for a musical Number. First public performance I've given since I was probably about 11 or 12. I practised as much as our schedule would allow and I did alright. I had a few more hiccups than I would have liked but I got through it and the Branch seemed to enjoy it. 

 

I found out today that I'll be staying in Gretna for sure for at least another transfer. It was expected anyways but Now I know for sure. they're Introducing a whole new training curriculum and they want those who are half way through training to start working on it too. So on Wednesday after our Zone Meeting we'll be heading into Roanoke again for some Train the Trainer meeting. Sadly I don't believe I'll be able to spend anytime visiting anyone there because their zone leaders will be driving us and we'll have to make it back to Gretna that night from Buena Vista. Crazy day but it should be fun. Well I think that's all the big things going on so far. 

 

Love you all and miss ya!!

 

Elder Sunada

 

PS.I'll try for some pictures next week.

Paint it Red.‏

Icarumba! Es Muy Caliente!!

Or in other words, ITS BEEN WAY TOO HOT!

Haha so this past week there was a bit of a heat wave with temperatures getting up to the 100F(38C) or up to 110F (over 40C) on the Heat index taking into account for humidity.

So what did we have planned for these days? Service in the Sun!! Friday morning we went over to the American legion to help distribute food to fixed and low income families. We started at 8:30 in the morning when it was already almost 90F. We helped unload boxes of food for a good few hours, but after that we had a great lesson with a very promising investigator and some members in the Church! It was great as we were able to give her a tour of the building and have a great lesson! THEN she showed up to church on Sunday! :D Its been a little while since Gretna's had a solid investigator so I'm really Excited for her!

After our lesson we helped deliver some food and then went for our weekly Bingo at the Nursing home. Some of those Seniors are really growing on me! We go there about twice a week to visit members who are staying there as well and I always have to stop and say hi to someone in a wheelchair rolling down the halls. Its pretty sweet.

After that we had some more service! Out in the sun... haha it was really really hot but I actually enjoyed it. We were helping a Part member Family paint a deck. Practice staining the fence back home helped out so I guess I owe you a thanks Mom and Dad ;). The next day, we decided we hadn't had enough and again went out into the heat to paint. This time I got to get up on a ladder and paint! I miss being at heights. Whatever my job is when I get back home I hope it involves me way up in the air looking down on everything. They are a pretty sweet family though. I also scored a sweet Jacket out of the deal! I was going to Trade Freddy a CFD patch for one of his old ones when he brought me out one of his old Jackets with a few patches on it. Freddy's the man! So most of our numbers were a little lower this week with all our service but that didn't bother me so much because we had some really great lessons on the side and our next week is almost fully booked already which means, Less Tracting in the Heat!! :D

We stayed in Gretna last night because were staying in Lynchburg tomorrow night. In the morning we have our first President interview!! Followed by a district meeting and some more service for a family in their area. I'm really excited to spend some 1 on 1 time with President Pitt. I was talking to Elder Jensen last night about how much we love and Miss President Thornock but also about how cool its going to be to get to know the new President and see what he's bringing to the table. Its been going great and I can't wait to see what the next week will bring!

Miss you all and I hope all is going well on the home front! Let me know whats going on ;)

Elder Sunada

New Surprises everywhere!‏

We've had a blast this past week.

 

Elder Fisher and I both had Birthdays and I finally crossed the Threshold of 20. No Longer a Teen!! What Does that mean? I'm not quite sure. But I'm told the next 10 years should be as much fun, If not much more, That the last 10 years so I'm alright with that.

 

On Tuesday we had a full day of work, but also some great members who made us and awesome meal. Wednesday we spent time with The Campbells who took us down to the smith mountain lake dam. Sadly it was closed to the public for the time being so we didn't get to tour it, but we had a great picnic and just enjoyed the beautiful weather. I apologize for those in places who may not have been having the most optimal summer weather. I'd trade with you if I could, Cause all this +90F is starting to get to me. But I suppose I'll just have to put up with it ;)

 

Its also been a funny week as Elder Fisher has been making all the preparations to go home. Its kinda funny to think that he's so close now. Its been bugging him too. He keeps saying that the closer it gets the worse he feels about it. I know he's excited to go but I also understand his hesitancy. Its a Big Change coming and going. Missionary work is so hard but so great. Its a forever Bitter-sweet experience. I'm Glad for it though.

 

We have some big news coming up though. On June 29th, President and Sis. Thornock go home :( Its going to be a bit of a change but I'm super exacted to see what President Pitt will be like and what he'll bring to the table. Also Grenta will be getting a brand new Mission Vehicle!! This is a pretty rare treat. One that I never considered would happen during my mission experience. I lucked out. Rumor is that it'll be a Jeep SUV. SICK! So hopefully that works out. I'll be driving back to Roanoke for the day to pick up the new Vehicle as well as....MY NEW GREENY...WHOA. I'm going to be training an Elder Fresh from the MTC this Transfer! Its pretty exciting but also pretty scary because my effectiveness as a trainer will heavily influence his effectiveness as a missionary. So far I don't know a darned thing about him. But I imagine I'll get to know him pretty quick on the ride back tomorrow. So I'm going to have to work hard to keep us both on track. An experience to grow for us both.

 

We'll I gotta Run. Love ya'll!

Elder Sunada