Katelyn Elgaaen in Utica New York: July 9,2018 Amen!

This week has come and gone. I can hardly comprehend how quickly time speeds by when you are in the service of your fellow beings.

I know that tomorrow starts a new chapter in my life. Each day truly is a gift and another chance to strengthen and recognize our divine potential.

My missionary purpose was, and still will be, "to invite others to come unto Christ by helping them receive the restored gospel through faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement, repentance, baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end." (Preach my Gospel)

I know that truly the mission is the training center for life.

Nothing worthwhile is Ever easy. The mission was the hardest thing I have ever done. The mission is the most life Changing and worthwhile thing I have ever done.

I am so grateful for all the experiences that have been presented to me. My life's course has been corrected and more perfected. I know so much more about myself, but more importantly I know more about my Savior. He has been my closest friend, best companion, and biggest support. There was never a moment when I called out that He did not respond.

I am excited to return to Utah and apply all I have been learning. I have committed to stay on the Covenant Path. I know it will never be easy, for salvation is not a cheap experience. But it will always be worth it. I have been teaching those I love in New York to keep the end in mind, and I plan on doing the same.

I am going to do that by: focusing on the doctrine of the next ordinance (partaking of the Sacrament and attending the temple often), striving for deep conversion (by daily studying and feasting upon the book of mormon), and following the prophet (for he knows the way).

When we step through the veil after all is said and done, all we can take with us is our Character and our Covenants.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints has blessed my life. I have grown so much and know that it will continue to be a place where I can become whomever God needs me to be.

Jesus Christ; the Prince of Peace, the King of Kings, the Savior and Redeemer of mankind- is at the helm of this church. I know that He is directing and leading President Russell M Nelson. I know that the Book of Mormon was preserved for this day and is true. I know that the Priesthood Power has been again restored to the earth, and the work of salvation is being performed in the Temples.

May we all recognize the growth that we have made this past while, and continue to live the gospel and share it with those around us. I know that there will be daily opportunities to live our faith.

I can promise that as we live what we believe, we will continue to grow and stretch towards The Son

Love, Sister Elgaaen