January 25, 2010

Family,

I got a new companion this week. I LOVE him! He is a Filipino. His name is Elder Mera. He is 24 from Luzon, the big island up north that Manila is on. We entered the MTC the same day, but on opposite ends of the world. They only go to the MTC for 3 weeks where we go for 9 so he got here a transfer before I did. He is a lot of fun to be with. He is always happy and helpful and clean! This morning we cleaned the apartment. That was great! It looks so much better now. It is nice to have a companion as clean as you are. He is a great teacher, and is so loving. He is willing to give up what he has to members who need it and don't have the money for it, like ties and shirts. While we were cleaning, we found some extra socks and belts and things like that. I would just throw them away, but he came up with the idea of giving them to members and investigators who don't have them. That is a much better idea!

We also did have our baptism this week! Resly Racho is now a member of the church! And this week he will receive the priesthood! I am excited. He is the most prepared of all the baptisms I have had. Also this transfer we have the opportunity of having a lot of baptisms. We have 4 other progressing investigators, 3 who could easily become progressing, but don't keep their commitments yet, and 3 more who are good potential investigators. We have the possibility of many baptisms in the next two transfers! We are EXCITED! My companion talks to everyone and says hi to everyone. He said there were some sisters who talked to everyone and were always smiling and happy and eventually people started to get to know them and say hi back. Eventually they began to ask about them and then would refer themselves! We are trying to do that here. The missionaries have been here for so long that a lot of people call us Elders, or whispers "Mormons" as we walk by. And if not that, there is the constant chorus of people yelling "HEY JOE" and the little kids yelling "Americano!" It's fun.

Katie, congratulations on your baby! and if you haven't had it yet, good luck. I am excited to be a tito, or uncle.

Salamat kaayo sa inyong mga letters ug emails. they are always nice to receive. Salamat kaayo sa inyong mga prayers ug googma. Nagdawat ko lig-on sa inyong mga pagampo. Salamat!

Love always,
Elder Schenk