iztapalapa

Buenos días!!

This week we had two fun events! The first was that I finally got to go on divisions [William’s note: “divisions” is the word Katherine's mission uses for exchanges, when missionaries exchange companions] in my area with one of our sister training leaders! Hermana Monarrez is from Chicago but her dad is from Mexico and so while she has an accent, she speaks perfect Spanish and looks pretty Mexican. She is awesome and I loved having the day to talk with, and learn from her. I'm hoping one day we get to be companions! At one point during our divisions we found a little park and some swings and took five minutes to relax and recharge. We also celebrated her one-year mark, which she hit the day after we were together. I bought us ice cream to celebrate, cheese with blackberry and a chocolate cookie flavor. Delish!

On division (exchanges).

Last week we had a conference with a visiting Seventy, Elder Pieper. It was awesome and he taught us a lot in the few hours we had together. We talked about investigators and how we can know if they are ready or not. He commented that the "escojidos" [chosen] are humble; they are ready to change their lives and let go of their sins to have a better life. I had not thought of it like that, but all those I've baptized have been humble; they've known their weaknesses and sought to improve, to change, and be better. Elder Pieper also commented that we are all God's investigators, that we all should do exactly what we teach our investigators, to read, pray, and fast, and that as we learn and change, we will become converted. He said that our most important investigators are ourselves. If we do not continue to strengthen our testimonies and our foundation in the gospel, that after the mission we will distance ourselves and begin to doubt and question all we did on the mission. Our individual strength and testimony will be key in our families, both parents and siblings as well as our spouses and children. If we want them sure and strong in the gospel, we have to set the example. 

     That is my invitation for you all! Study, pray and do all you can to be completely converted to the Gospel, to following Jesus Christ and his example in all things. You will have a happier, more joyful life as you do so, and those around you will also be strengthened. I know this is the Lord's work and that He is coming soon. Now is the day to prepare, to do all we can for our ancestors as well as those around us. I don't want to get to Heaven and have someone ask me why I didn't share the Gospel with them when I had the chance. So keep serving others, help the missionaries and do all you can to "lift where you stand." I love you all and am so happy for all you do! Have an amazing week!

Love,

Hermana Bennett

A local street fair.