We went on two exchanges this week and it was fun but tiring haha. Really fun because I get to know and learn from how different sisters approach their missionary work. Tiring because I feel like I talk a lot more on exchanges than I usually do hahaha. I'm grateful it really is learning experiences for both them and me. This week I went on exchanges with Sister Webb (she's new this transfer), and Sister Nielsen (a bit past halfway done), both from Idaho! I'm learning a lot on focusing on what Heavenly Father needs me to say, in helping sisters reach their potential as missionaries, and also helping them realize how great they already are doing.

Yesterday Sister Evans and I were able to speak in a YSA sacrament meeting. Bishop Kaitoku asked me to base my talk on "A Sacred Trust" by President Monson, in a previous General Priesthood Session. As I prepared the talk, I realized what a huge blessing it is to have the priesthood authority restored in this church. Although President Monson focused on the importance of always being worthy and prepared to use the priesthood authority to bless others' lives, I thought of how important it is for all of us, to stay true to our baptism covenant, and stand as a witness of Jesus Christ at all times, in all places, and in all things. We never know when we can be an instrument of God to serve someone in need, but we can have that trust from Him when we strive to have His Spirit to be with us.

VC:
1) Yesterday we had a special visit from Elder Andersen from the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. He spoke today at BYUH's Commencement, and we were privileged to have him speak to the VC sisters even just briefly. Honestly, I feel really lucky to have met several members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles speak to us personally. Their is a different spirit in the room when they come in, because the Spirit always testifies to us they truly are men called of God. What stood out to me, was that Elder Andersen reminded us that we hold up the light of Christ, and when visitors see the His light radiating from within us, they will never forget their experience here. We don't see the effects of our work, but it truly does go on and on. I definitely know that what he shared was a message that all of us needed a good reminder of. We put our best efforts forward because we want others to feel the love of their Savior, and to know the blessings Heavenly Father has in store for them.

2) When I was with Sister Webb, we prayed for an opportunity to teach and testify together. We met a man named Bob and his son. They were just passing by, but we taught them more about temples and the Book of Mormon. They had time since they weren't from the tram tours, and we learned that Bob did some bad things, where he could've faced up to 30 years in jail. He prayed really hard for half an hour, and came out with no charges (remember though that prayer is to align our will with God's will, in this case, it worked out in his favor). He realized this really was a second chance to live a better life, a life of serving others, and reaching out like Christ did. We listened to the Christus narration, and testified of how much peace comes into our lives when we follow Jesus Christ's teachings. He wanted to learn more from the local missionaries!

3) I was trying to contact the people I have in my contact list, who haven't replied to me, and finally got Ranielle on the other line of the phone (Book of Mormon request). She wants to have the same faith as her daughter's best friend's family(members). "They are such wonderful and good people. I truly want what they have and I know it is from their faith and their belief in Jesus. The mother of my daughter's friend is an inspiration of faith and love. She has a child who is profoundly handicap by cerebral palsy and I know her strength comes from her faith. They live/lead by example. My beautiful daughter has found peace at her friend's church. Her friend is in California but has come to visit her. The friend is an example. I've never had a more polite child in my house she is 14 like my daughter. My husband left us, we really need peace."

I'm constantly amazed at the example members throughout the world lead. We live by faith, and it isn't easy. But happiness and peace is not given to us on a silver platter; we try our best to build or foundation on Jesus Christ, and then we have the strength to bear all things. The joy that comes from living the gospel is a deep joy. A joy that only Christ can give us!

Scripture of the week: Matthew 5:14-16
"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

Quote:
"To be a witness of God at all times and in all places reflects both how we live and how we speak." - Elder Andersen "A Witness of God" Oct 2016 General Conference




Love,
Sister Wu
​

Aloha!

Yesterday evening, we had the privilege to listen to Sheri Dew, who is the CEO of Deseret Book Company. Some key points that I learned:

• even a little improvement means a lot to the Lord 
• questions are good, having questions does not directly correlate with your testimony, questions are a way for us to gain knowledge, revelation, and faith; as long as you are asking with faith, and seeking correct sources, you can find answers or peace, not knowing all the answers
• if you want to have a testimony, or strengthen it, you can, but it requires a lot of effort and desire, she talked about two young women, one who was scared she lost her testimony because she had so many questions, and one who had sinned and had no desire to find her testimony
• the young woman who was willing to learn from the scriptures, words of the prophets, and revelation, strengthened her testimony (process of a few months), but the other young woman talked herself into disbelieving the gospel
• testimony includes: knowing God is our Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ lives, Joseph Smith was a prophet called of God, the Book of Mormon is truly God's word, and President Monson is the living prophet today
• "am I willing to engage in a spiritual wrestle?"

When we struggle, or have concerns, our first source of help should be upwards, to our Heavenly Father. When we realize we do indeed have a testimony, it is other things which hold us back from experiencing the blessings of the gospel. e.g. not repenting of sin or unwilling to forgive others. That being said, we will have many questions, and may be offended sometimes in the church, but we must remember how much Heavenly Father loves us. And we are here to learn how to overcome our weaknesses and seek learning from the Spirit and His appointed servants.

It was so fun to meet Sheri Dew, because she has such a strong testimony and her experiences probably prepared her to influence and help so many lives. A few of us were able to perform a music number, with me on the piano, and Sister Evans, Sister Walker, and Sister Lundgren singing.

VC:
1) Last Sunday,  Matt (a student) brought his friend Linling to church. Sister Ting previously met Linling at the VC a few months ago, and she's actually from Hubei (where I'm from in China). At the time she said she wanted to come to church and learn more, but no activity really since then. But after going to church last Sunday, she said she loved it and wants to go every week! It would be super fun to teach her more about the gospel, so we're waiting to meet her.

2) Went on exchanges with Sister Lee on Wednesday! It's nice to see the growth in one another as missionaries since we've grown up so closely with one another. I'm grateful we can serve together in this mission, and support one another. I'm grateful for her strong testimony of this restored gospel, and always doing her best to grow.

3) As I keep in touch with investigators online, I'm so grateful for the technology that allows us to contact them. We met Mikayla and her sister, who are both from Idaho, and want to keep in touch so we can share more about the Book of Mormon. I was able to call a guy who lives in Taiwan who is starting to meeting the missionaries. What a wonderful work this is :)

As I've studied in personal study this week, I've learned exactly how much the prophets of old have always been blessed for their faith and obedience, despite the consequences they would face. Amulek, when he was prompted by the Spirit to help Alma, gave up his position with his friends and his family. He literally sacrificed everything, his position, and his possessions, to follow God. But he was blessed and strengthened for that decision. It wasn't easy, but the Lord always keeps his promise when we keep our covenants, and have the faith to obey the promptings of the Spirit. Same with King Lamoni (you can tell I'm reading in Alma haha)! His conversion process was greatly due to Ammon's example of a humble servant. He bore testimony to his own father for the goodness of Ammon, although it wasn't an easy task, but he was blessed for that as well!

Alma 15:16, 18 reads:
"16 And it came to pass that Alma and Amulek, Amulek having forsaken all his gold, and silver, and his precious things, which were in the land of Ammonihah, for the word of God, he being rejected by those who were once his friends and also by his father and his kindred...
 18 Now as I said, Alma having seen all these things, therefore he took Amulek and came over to the land of Zarahemla, and took him to his own house, and did administer unto him in his tribulations, and strengthened him in the Lord."

I know that God truly is our Heavenly Father, a Father who will only lead us to do good, and to experience the joy amidst of the troubled times we may have, all for our growth. He knows us personally, more than we can imagine. The gospel is simple but life changing.

Scripture of the week: Alma 18:7
"I say unto you, what is it, that thy marvelings are so great? Behold, I am a man, and am thy servant; therefore, whatsoever thou desirest which is right, that will I do."

Pictures:




Love,
Sister Wu

Aloha!

I can't believe this is already November! About one year ago was when we first landed in Hawaii to begin serving in the Visitors Center. So many changes since then, and so many lessons learned, but I'm super excited for the Christmas season to get here!

I got to go on exchanges (we switch companions for 24 hours) this week with Sister Sicotte, who is learning Mandarin since she's called here Mandarin speaking (she's not Chinese), and Sister Kim, who lived half her life in Thailand. Sister Sicotte's Chinese is super good and she is so diligent at learning and improving her skills; we definitely talked a lot in Chinese that day, and I realized how difficult it is for non-native speakers to understand the various Chinese accents that our visitors have (mostly from mainland China). I'm always so impressed when people are learning Chinese; Heavenly Father definitely blesses them with the gift of tongues!

Area:
1) Sister Evans and I also helped out with a Mission Preparation class in a YSA Ward On-Campus. It was so fun to see the students introduce missionary pamphlets or a pass-along card to one another, and just exciting to see so many students preparing to serve a mission!
2) We attended a few ward councils, and are excited for the new semester with new students! Possibly some who may want to learn more about the gospel :)

VC:
1) When I was with Sister Sicotte, we were on a chat and this guy said he wanted to learn more about forgiveness, and wanted to call us, so we said okay (but the conversation was a little sketchy, like very vague), and when he called I immediately recognized his voice (I know that sounds weird). Once previously, when I was with Sister Leng, we talked to the same guy on chat, who wasted probably an hour of our time, because we thought he was a missionary in a lot of trouble(it sounded too real to be a prank). I told him I recognized his voice and asked if he called us before and he immediately hung up. Then I talked to support so they could block his IP address, so he wouldn't waste anyone else's time. Just thought it was cool we were able to catch him in the act. I just don't understand pranksters, they waste so much time, their time and our time.

2) On a busy evening, I met a sweet Korean lady who came from the PCC. She told me her English wasn't very good, but we had a really sweet conversation as I shared more about the concept of eternal families, temples, and the Book of Mormon. I rarely have many tours with Korean people because either the Korean sisters talk to them or they're not interested in talking with us. By the end of our short time, I was able to testify of how much God loves her and her family, and invited her to learn more. She filled out a guest card, and we became friends! "Your belief is so beautiful." Such a sweet experience, because she truly felt the Spirit, even if I didn't speak her language.

3) Maria, her husband, and her 9 yr old son, were baptized last week!!! They live in Utah, and a lot of obstacles came their way this last month, including a lost home, a car that stopped running, and two deaths in the family, but they knew how to trust in God, and made the decision to get baptized as a family. The gospel provides the answers to solve all our problems, and they had a testimony of that. So even if the circumstances aren't perfect, they know how to have peace. I'm so grateful that missionaries all over the world are able to carry that message to God's children.

4) I got to meet two Chinese families this week who want to learn more about God! And they actually live in North America! Usually, it's a miracle enough if we meet a Chinese individual, who doesn't currently live in Mainland China, interested in learning more, but a family is so much more special! One from Vancouver, Canada and another one from California. The second family wore a matching " I ❤ Hawaii" tshirts, and I thought they lived in Beijing because that's where she told me they're from. I taught her about how much the gospel blesses families, and she really liked that, but I didn't even offer a guest card (guilty)...but! Sister Evans talked to her when she went on the tram (we were on exchanges), and told her about the Book of Mormon, and asked if she wanted a Chinese one delivered. She said yes and filled out the card. Yay for teamwork and always reaching out!

I know that we cannot accomplish this work by ourselves. Without God and Jesus Christ, there is no way for us to have eternal happiness, and no way this message of hope can be received by others. I love missionary work and I'm grateful to be here every day! It is so fun to see others feel the peace and happiness of the Spirit. Because God truly does love each of His children, and want them to return to Him.

Scripture of the week: 1 Nephi 10:18-19 (recent convert Brother Burnell's favorite scripture)
"18 For he is the same yesterday, today, and forever; and the way is prepared for all men from the foundation of the world, if it so be that they repent and come unto him.

 19 For he that diligently seeketh shall find; and the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto them, by the power of the Holy Ghost, as well in these times as in times of old, and as well in times of old as in times to come; wherefore, the course of the Lord is one eternal round."

Pictures:

Love,
Sister Wu

To be honest, being a sister training leader has a lot of challenges, but many blessings too. I know I don't know everything, but Heavenly Father helps me to do what I can, and to learn from everyone I serve with. We finally met Sister Sicotte yesterday, coming straight from the MTC. She's called her Mandarin speaking, but she is from North Carolina. I'm excited to speak Chinese with her! Haha. We also went to two ward councils Sunday morning (married student ward and a young single adult ward) and we're trying to work with members more to see how we can help out. In our MLC (missionary leadership council) yesterday, President Bekker reminded us that we really should be the most effective when we team up with members. And at the visitors center, we have about 1800 interactions online each day, and all these people are interested in knowing something more. We're trying our best as VC sisters to help them here a voice (ours), or else they're pushed through the system.

VC:
1) We called to a member referral online who was truly changed the influence of the Spirit. His name is Paul and he was just feeling so hopeless in his life, and couldn't trust anyone because they've all betrayed him, we shared about the plan of salvation, God's love for him individually, and our testimonies of that. I ended our call with a prayer, and he was just speechless, he felt so much peace, and actually smiled for once in two weeks! He just couldn't understand how that was possible. The peace he felt after our conversation. We're looking forward to teaching him more. Miracles truly happen when we follow the Spirit's promptings, and bear our testimonies. I love seeing others changed, and feeling that joy and peace.

2) I had exchanges with Sister Miao and it was so interesting haha. It was my first exchange being a sister training leader, but it was fun to learn from her. She's from Taiwan, but her family moved to California when she was in high school. We had fun teaching the Chinese guests together, and I usually don't have a Chinese companion, so I was able to learn from her teaching too. Although it's now nearing the end of October, our Chinese buses have still been consistent!

3) Willy Burnell, from New Zealand, got baptized last Friday! It was super sweet to follow up with him and he was so so happy. "Only onward and upward!" It's so interesting how people become interested in the gospel. His students (he's a teacher) shared their beliefs with him, and to better understand them, he wanted to learn more. And now he has his own testimony of the Book of Mormon!

I'm grateful to serve here, and to see the Lord's work hastening everywhere! Sister Evans and I have been practicing teaching together in our companionship study, and learning a lot how to improve as well. I know that Heavenly Father calls each missionary to their mission for a reason, and we find that out as we serve. The people are meet, need our light and our testimonies. I know that the Atonement is the only thing in life that can give us lasting peace. Just like Paul experienced, even we need that reminder each day when we have heavy hearts or want to improve.

Scripture of the week: Ether 12:4
"Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God, which hope cometh of faith, maketh an anchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works, being led to glorify God."

Pictures:


Love,
Sister Wu

Happy belated Canadian Thanksgiving everyone! I totally did not think about it until Sister Lee told me haha. But I was able to meet quite a few Canadians on vacation who came to visit the temple.

The new sisters are getting used to missionary work here, and have really good companions who are helping them along. I wonder if I looked overwhelmed or shy when I first got here haha. I'm excited to get to know them better and serve them. They shared their testimonies this morning at VCTM, and I can tell that they'll face some challenges, but they'll have the faith to overcome them.

Sister Evans and I are getting along together super well, and she's such a great missionary. She's been a sister training leader for a long time, so I asked her a ton of questions the last few days, so I'm grateful she's pretty patient haha. There's a lot to do as an STL, but our capacity to love and help the sisters improve will come with time (at least for me).

Yesterday in the YSA Wards, there were some really good talks given. One of the Chinese guys said there's a Chinese proverb which says, "look at a person's childhood, and you can see their future" (something like that), and he said he can't believe that proverb. Why? Because we are constantly changing, who we were does not have to be who we will become. And that is the essence of God's plan, for us to progress, change, repent, be worthy to live with Him again. And judgement is not a day for us to be scared, but we have it because we CAN change through the Atonement. It's profound and simple at the same time. Because it's true.

VC:
1) Last Tuesday, I met a man named Robbie, and he was on the later tram tours, walking near the Book of Mormon display table. I started talking to him, and he said he didn't realize there were Mormon missionaries in Hawaii too! His best friend is a member in the Don Mills ward back home, and he's been to a few church activities even, but it was neat that Heavenly Father placed me in front of him so I could share my testimony and invite him to learn more. He was of course surprised when I said I'm from Toronto too, and he noticed how comfortable and easy it was for him to talk about religion here on the grounds compared to on the streets in Toronto when missionaries approached him (makes sense, because the temple grounds have been blessed). Definitely divine intervention. :)

2) Literally on that same day, I met another couple from a small town in Ontario a few hours away from Toronto, and she wanted to know about the temple, so I was able to take her to the lobby of the temple, and share the restoration with her. She's looking for the right church, and wanted to learn more! I couldn't help but feel so grateful to be serving here, and connecting with Canadians, and sharing the blessings of this gospel. I don't know these people, but Heavenly Father does! And when we talk to everyone, they have a chance to know God, to know His plan for them, and more peace and joy in their lives than ever before.

3) On another day, I met a Russian couple from Montreal. They were looking at the temple pictures, and asked the difference between us and just Christians, so I simply shared the restoration and bore my testimony about the Book of Mormon. They didn't really feel comfortable leaving a guest card, but took the Book of Mormon in Russian, and already started reading it while we waited for the tram to arrive. So cool! I know that there is converting power when others read the Book of Mormon sincerely. I know it is the word of God, and is the only way to gain a testimony of this restored gospel. I'll never find out what happens to them, but they'll remember this sacred place. :)

4) Amelia got baptized on Saturday!!! And confirmed a member of the church on Sunday. Some words she said about her feelings, "transforming, better, just assured, I have my family and I'm connected to Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father...I will be true to the covenant I made today. He is first, the promise comes first.  I don't plan on letting on letting them down." Miracles are wrought when there is faith. And Amelia has been so faithful, and all the barriers that prevented her from being baptized were resolved, when she pressed forward in faith.

Starting from next week, life for us will be hectic because we'll begin exchanges, and have interviews with President Bekker. But I'm excited! I love all the sisters here, and going on exchanges will be so fun because I'll actually be able to work alongside them for 24 hrs! :)
Sister Evans also warned me I'll be exhausted at some point too, but that's why we need the Atonement haha.

Scripture of the week: John 7:17
"If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself."

Pictures:

On Friday, we had a French Toast Party for breakfast, and I ate a kiwi berry. This is soo good. It's the size of a grape, but it tastes like a kiwi. 

Last week wasn't super eventful because we spent a lot of our time at the VC haha. But we've witnessed so many miracles! The beginning of a new transfer is here and the big news is....I'm going to be an STL (sister training leader) with Sister Evans! (she's been an STL for a while), and there's actually two pairs of STLs now to help out with the responsibilities. We'll have seven new sisters coming, so seven sisters training. It's going to be a crazy transfer because of so many sisters but it'll be really fun because their energy and enthusiasm will be contagious. :) I'm scared, excited, not really sure what's up ahead, but overall excited! Especially to do exchanges with other sisters 😋 Thank goodness we're all imperfect servants, but the Lord qualifies those He calls to serve His children. Oh, and I'll continue to serve the same area!

Right now we have 26 - 4(dying) - 1(going to full-field) + 7(new sisters) = 28!

VC  Miracles:
1) Earlier last week, we met a woman named Roxanne, visiting from Texas. She came here with her cousin, who was carrying her 5 month old baby boy. Long story short, Roxanne came to the VC, told us she was so excited to get baptized on Nov 5 and has been meeting with missionaries, and we took her to the temple corner, but she had some weird questions. Then she watched a film in the theatre called Testaments, and wanted to pray inside the temple. We explained she couldn't go inside, except for the lobby, and she agreed. It was there that we discovered she knew nothing about the Book of Mormon, and she was actually getting baptized i the 7th Day Adventist Church. 😥

So she just broke down crying as she stepped in the lobby, and knelt down to pray. She didn't understand why we wouldn't let people go inside the temple to pray, but we explained that it just takes preparation because it's such a sacred place. And the whole reason she came here to Hawaii because she believed this was a sacred place. And there's a purpose she's here. Her cousin told us she's really turned her life around, because she's experienced the contrast, and truly wants to follow God. Sister Leng and I invited her to come back the next day (she spent a few hours here) so we could share more with her, but we didn't see her again. Sigh, it was a little frustrating because she related every good feeling here back to how true the 7th Day Adventist Church was, when she really felt the Spirit draw her here. And I just hope that she'll take the opportunity to study the Book of Mormon and connect the dots. It's not that often on my mission that I've met someone so sincere to submit their will to God, and so desirous that she truly felt Godly sorrow. We felt so much love for her, and hope that she'll be able to see and understand what we do one day.

2) I got an online referral from Ingrid, who is from Mississauga. She requested for a Book of Mormon and when I was asking how she became interested, she said she was impressed by how welcoming and sweet a group of members were (she works at a hotel, and checked them in). I love talking to people that are near home. The best missionary work is truly living by example.

3) A few days ago, I met a couple from Shanghai, and he listened in while I explained to another Taiwanese family about life after death. He asked me about Joseph Smith, and said he's gone to Temple Square in SLC, and learned a little about the early church history. He told me "I don't know much about Christianity, Catholicism, or other religions, but I feel a deep respect and really touched by what Joseph Smith experienced, to spread the gospel and to establish this church. He really made such an impact" (I wish I recorded this on my camera or something, that's how rare this kind of comment is). This is a miracle coming from a Chinese person, because usually they don't know much about early church history, but he really felt the Spirit at Temple Square when the sisters explained to him about Joseph Smith's life and journey. I offered him a guest card, but he already filled one out at Temple Square. I did get a picture with him though. Heavenly Father truly prepares people, to learn but also be touched by His Spirit. What a testimony builder for me to see. No man in their right mind would go through what Joseph Smith had, if he didn't know with his whole heart and mind that it was from God and it was the truth.

4) Sister Leng and I were talking about our fears in life, and how amazing it is that they're really just theoretical fears. All our fears in life can be dissolved with the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. There is nothing that we can't overcome, no question left unanswered, if we are fully converted to the Lord and this restored gospel. Of course we don't have the answers to everything, but we have what we need to have JOY in this life and in eternity. I'm so grateful for that!

Quote from General Conference:
“As we come to trust rather than resist our divine teacher, He can work with us to enlighten and lift us to a new reality.”—Elder D. Todd Christofferson, “Abide in My Love”
 We made takoyaki (Japanese food with squid inside) with Brother and Sister Kishi yesterday for dinner. It was so fun and yummy!

​
Love,
Sister Wu

Wasn't General Conference so inspired? I just love that this time, there was a lot of focus on strengthening our faith, being grateful for the knowledge of this gospel, and trusting in the power and revelation received from sincere prayers. This morning in VC Training Meeting(VCTM), several sisters shared what they've learned, and what they'll do about it. Being a VC sister provides different challenges that are so different from other missions; some of us are struggling with testimonies, some with finding their purpose, and so many conference talks really addressed these needs. One of my questions I had for General Conference was how I can internalize the gospel more in my life (even though we live, learn, and teach it every day), and how my faith can continue to grow.

Some of the talks that really stood out to me:

• President Uchtdorf (Sat Morning) - the more adept he was to technology, the easier it was for him to take it for granted, same goes for the gospel
• Elder Neil L. Andersen (Sat Morning) - we're all a piece in a big puzzle. and we're all an important part of the big plan God has for us, especially in missionary work
• Elder Yamashita (Saturday afternoon) - the story of the missionary, who was willing to serve God with everything he has, without complaint, without doubt, serving faithfully, accepting humbly His call
• Elder Russell M. Nelson(Sunday Morning) - we're here to have JOY, and when we focus on Christ and the plan of happiness, we can truly find joy in every circumstance, it's a gift that comes from just trying
• Elder David A. Bednar (Sunday afternoon) - when we do the will of the Father, grace can be applied, and we can trust in the assurances we've experienced and truly KNOW what we believe is true
• Elder Ronald A. Rasband (Sunday afternoon) - when it comes to seeking for more knowledge, we have to make sure to hearken to the counsel of God, and to trust in the previous spiritual experiences we've had, and to trust that God will help us overcome trials

To be honest, I could probably say so many things I've learned from each of the conference talks. I know that the messages the general authorities shared address the problems that many people are facing, and I could feel the love of our Heavenly Father through their talks. We meet many people who have their faith tested, their testimonies tested, and it is just so sad for us to hear that. But with the help of God, we can build on what we do know, and continue to strengthen ourselves and others around us, if we seek learning from the scriptures, and from God. Every time I watch General Conference, I'm reminded of how much LOVE our Heavenly Father has for each of His children. We sustain the church leaders, and we are grateful for their dedicated service in their callings. I can't wait to study these talks more when the Ensign comes out!

Hearing from Elder Yamashita reminds me a lot of two Sisters we serve with, Sister Lee(Korean), who had so much faith in Christ and just listened when President Bekker said she needed to go home (health issues), and Sister Allen, who had to leave her mission in Japan to have surgery back home, but chose to serve again, being re-assigned here. She shared her testimony this morning, and her mom said she didn't have to come out again, but she wanted to serve the Lord, and here she is. Their examples so great for all of us, and I try to count my blessings every day that I can be here, to serve full-time, to spread the joy of this gospel, and to be changed by the Atonement of Jesus Christ. When we serve diligently, we can see the miracles!

At the VC:
1) One evening, I was able to call a few people who requested the Book of Mormon, living in South Africa, and Zimbabwe I think. It's amazing to hear their desire to strengthen their faith in Jesus Christ, and my first time really calling people there. The Lord is preparing people everywhere to receive the restored gospel, and it all beings with that sincere desire. :)

2) We picked up a phone call from a man named John yesterday, who was in a hospital, suffering from suicidal attempts and really needed someone to just listen to him. He's a member, but has made some really bad decisions in his life that led his family to leave him, but he still has a huge desire to read the scriptures and rely on God. Sometimes we are here for people, who just need someone to encourage them, and have faith in them, so they can be on their feet. What a blessing it is to be the Lord's hand like this, and to share my testimony with him.

3) Michael wanted to read the Book of Mormon because one of his friends suggested it; he's been looking for "someone more," but didn't want to meet with the local missionaries just yet. As I talked with him about what the Book of Mormon is, another testament of Jesus Christ, and invited him to read Joseph Smith's Testimony (a pamphlet you can find online too), his desire to learn really grew. For him, he does believe God can continue to send messages through prophets, so we aren't unguided. The promise is real, that the Spirit truly does touch the hearts of those who are prepared, even if I'm only talking to him through text really, but still being able to bear my testimony and inviting him to watch General Conference. :)

4) Ilya got baptized! I haven't gotten to call him to ask about it, but that's what it shows on the Teaching Center (online)!

If you haven't watched all the sessions of General Conference, you should:
lds.org

Pictures:
 We found a centipede in our living room and teamed together to kill it, it was so fast! Two killing sprays, and Sister Lor with a knife. It was a pretty funny experience, this was when we ambushed. 


 Sunday morning breakfast! After the morning session, we're so lucky to have the senior sisters, who prepared all the delicious food options for us to eat!


Love,
Sister Wu
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So many things happened this past week! We went to MLC (missionary leadership council) in town! It was like a zone conference, but with ZLs and STLs all over the mission(I'm not an STL though).
And Sister Leng and I met some really great people at the VC and online as well.

In our area:
1) MLC was a really unique experience because Brother Allen (Managing Director of the Missionary Department) gave us training on the doctrine of Christ, preparing others for the baptism invitation, and he also shared really funny experiences with us. What I really learned, or re-learned I guess, was the importance of living the doctrine of Christ as missionaries, and that our actions YESTERDAY should be evidence of our understanding of the doctrine of Christ. For example, yesterday, I invited a Chinese guest to read the Book of Mormon, to strengthen her faith in Jesus Christ. He was just hilarious, and we're so grateful we were able to go!
And it was really exciting to see some missionaries I served with previously, and a few elders who are Zone Leaders now, who came out to Hawaii with us back on November.

2) We've been visiting the freshman and sharing a scripture in Mosiah 2:7-9 so they can spiritually prepare for General Conference coming up! I'm super excited to learn from the prophet and apostles on my mission especially.

At the VC:
1) Last Tuesday, we had to cover for a sister who wasn't feeling too well, and took their tram shift. So on tram tours, we only stay at the VC for 20 minutes, then go back with our guests. A guy named Kevin talked to me in English first (I didn't know if he was Chinese or what), and was surprised to meet a Chinese Mormon, I had to go back on the tram, but asked Sister Smith (senior sister) to give him a tour, since he was curious. Basically, I wasn't expecting to see him again, but at the end of the evening (like 2 hours later), he was still at the VC! Sister Nielsen gave him a tour, and he had all the pamphlets laid out in his arms, and we talked probably for half an hour or so. He had a ton of questions about our beliefs, and about how my family joined the church. I think it was a miracle he stayed that long (since most people who walk in don't stay long), but the peace and Spirit he felt probably prompted him to wait. I shared my testimony and he agreed I could share more through email. He travels a lot so wouldn't be that available for missionaries, but I was just amazed at his willingness to learn. (that conversation was in Mandarin)

2) Feifei is Chinese, but working in Germany right now as an engineer. We met on the tram tour, and she was super down-to-earth and easy to talk to. Usually, to be honest, I don't get many quality gospel conversations with Chinese guests, but hers was one I'll always remember I think. She asked me how I deal with affliction or trials in life, and I was able to share about some of my experiences growing up, and how the gospel and the Atonement has been a huge blessing, giving me the perspective I need. And I testified how much our Heavenly Father loves all of His children, and it's because of Jesus Christ, we can overcome anything we face. She was willing to learn more from local missionaries and keep in touch! So fun.

3) Amelia is our online investigator, and she planned to get baptized in November but now she'll be baptized on October 8! A sweet sister in her ward is renting out her home to her, so it's a miracle. She's so so excited and wishes Sister Ting and I could both attend...we're planning to take a picture together and send it to her haha.

Pictures: