March 28, 2017 The Lord's Amazing!

Most of this week was spent outside of humble Hamilton. Either on exchanges, at meetings, or enjoying a fun preparation day at the temple.

Last Saturday was the women's conference. I enjoyed in Bonnie H. Cordon's talk the three simple things that we can do in our everyday lives to 'lean not' to our own understanding; feast upon the words of Christ, pray unto the father with all energy of heart, serve others. As a missionary it is a daily thing to complete all three of those. I have noticed that while serving the Lord's mission and completing those things, I am not leaning to my own understanding- I am finding out how much I was actually being supported by a Higher power. 

Attending the temple today for personal worship was beyond amazing. The church is true where ever you go, and The Holiness inside temples (even far from mormonville Utah) is just as powerful.  

They Palmyra Temple is right next to the Sacred grove, and the windows have glass art trees, and the paintings are breath taking. Walking into the celestial room, felt almost like going home. I know that attending the temple may not be easy for everyone. But there are no excuses for not holding a current temple recommend.

I know that we are all children of a loving Heavenly Father. Doing the things that Sister Cordon talked about and attending the Temple are just a few of the ways that we can feel God's love for us and know of the true worth of Souls. (D&C 18) This world was created for US. It was made with us in mind, all of our trials and challenges, victories and triumphs. There was nothing left out in Heavenly Father's Plan of Love and Happiness. 1/3 of the hosts of Heaven Gave up before even getting here because they knew it would be difficult, and it is. But we are on the Winning team! We are here to learn and grow! We are here to help those around us. We are here, and our time here is short- so we must make the most of it.

I know this church is true. My testimony of it goes beyond sight.

Have a wonderful week and prepare questions for Conference!

Love, Sister Elgaaen

 

Sister Stowell and Elgaaen

President and Sister Rogers with Katelyn

Sister Elgaaen at the Palmyra New York Temple

Palmyra New York Temple

 

I Will Never Tire of the Gospel!

 

 

March 20, 2017 Historic Storm hits Utica 4 feet of snow!

So, this week was quite historic! One of the largest storms since 1993 came to the little village of Hamilton Utah and made it almost impossible to leave the house! Everyone was safe and there were not any noted fatalities from the missionaries, but there was a Lot of snow! In Hamilton we got about 4 feet in maybe 30 hours. Off an on the rest of this week it has been snowing, and also sunny so the piles are now more manageable. The first day of the storm Sister Stowell and I braved the weather to go purchase the supplies we needed to bake cupcakes for service because we were not allowed to use the car. Me and my height Really struggled to get through the, knee high at the time, snow! We made it back safely but we did not venture out again until President Rogers said that we were not confined to our apartment.

Few lessons were taught this week, but one of our progressing investigators stated in out last lesson that she wanted to be re-baptized because she does not believe that her church had the proper authority!! She really understands! It was heart warming to hear that the spirit had touched her heart and confirmed the truthfulness of The Gospel of Jesus Christ to her.

This week has helped me appreciate the gift of patience and love for all God's children. The storm made it difficult to travel at times and there was a point when staying inside was difficult. But in obeying the wise council from the Mission President and spending the Lord's time wisely- things all worked out and I know that it will continue doing so. 

D&C 4 " O ye that embark in the service of God, see that ye serve him with ALL your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day... the field is white already to harvest!" I know this to be true! There are so many people out there who need YOU to share the gospel. They have been waiting there entire life to hear the words that The Spirit will place in your mouth. Be loving and Bold in your speech. Know that all is well and that everything will work out in the end.

This is the Lord's field that is ready to harvest- you could not halter the progress of it if you tried. Heavenly Father is all knowing, and all loving. He will put the words into your mouth for he was the one who gave it to you!

I know that as time goes on I will gain confidence and the ability to "Fear not and lean not to [my] own understanding" D&C 6:36. There is a plan for me and a reason I am here. 

I know this to be true.

I love this gospel, I know it blesses families and everyone who hears it.

Have a safe and spiritual week!

Love, Sister Elgaaen

Is it already St. Patrick's Day?

The Weather Outside is Frightful but the Gospel is Delightful!

Sister's Elgaaen & Stowell

Snow Angel standing up!

So Much Snow! So Cold!

Historic Snow Storm dumps 4 feet of snow.

St. Patrick's Day SMILES~ from Utica

Teaching in the snow.



Who's turn is it to Shovel?

Happy St. Patrick's Day from Utica 2017

Historic Snow Storm!  Utica New York, Where's the Car?

I'm trying to Hold to the Rod!

 

March 13, 2017 4th Floor Last Door

Hello Everyone!

This week has blended together. 

The time is starting to fly, and Sister Stowell agrees with me that I have indeed grown (spiritually). There are things that before coming on my mission I took for granted or thought of as silly attributes, but I know that everything that I am able to do- all the things that I have been able to share- were given to me for a reason.

When you are in an area that is wide spread with few people in between, daily planning can get a little stiff. Saturday was like that. We planned the entire day, had backup plans, and a bucket full of hope that everything would turn out. That morning even before leaving to start the day everything started to fall through the cracks. Every appointment, and every service we planned did not work out. Being the inexperienced missionary that I am, I expressed my belief that this was all a test and that we would have a "fourth floor last door" day. Sister Stowell rolled her eyes but we continued attempting to find out where the Lord wanted us. The end of the day took forever to arrive, we had been out walking for almost two hours in the 7 degree weather, and we still had not found anyone to teach. Saying a prayer in my mind I thanked Heavenly Father for the chance that I have to be on his mission, and expressed to him that I hoped during our long and exhausting day we had shown him our diligence and willingness to do whatever he asked. No sooner than I had finished my prayer, my frozen toes and body started to warm up! It was almost unbelievable, but by the time we arrive in our apartment, I was not really that cold.

The next day was amazing! all of our hard work paid off. We got two new investigators, and one of them stated before the lesson was over that he wanted to be baptized as soon as he could... It was unreal. Every lesson we set happened and were over flowing with the spirit.

I know that Heavenly Father answers prayers. I know that he is almighty and that this is His work. Our day of being 'unproductive' was really a test to see- are we willing to obey the little commands, even when the blessings are not seen. It was to prepare us for bigger tasks that laid ahead. 

Life is like a puzzle. Everyone you meet brings a new piece and light to the board. I am so grateful that I am able to watch my brothers and sisters come unto Christ and add to this wonderful Gospel.

I know this church is true, those who I am teaching know it as well. Anyone who is reading this who wants to know just has to ask Heavenly Father. He Will make his love and truth known to you.

Remember, your first identity is Child of God. He wants to see you progress. ASK for his help. Ask for his forgiveness. Ask for his guidance. He WILL answer. All you have to do is be willing to ACT on what he tells you.

Have an amazing week!!

love, Sister Elgaaen

 

 

Sister Elgaaen & Sister Stowell

I Know the Scriptures Are True!

 

 

 

March 6, 2017 Pray, Read the Scriptures & Be Bold and Loving!

This week has been interesting. We picked up a few new investigators and instead of about 20 people coming to church, we had at least 45! Most of them were under the age of 15, but it was still amazing. On Thursday there was a youth Face to Face with President Eyring and Elder Holland. It was powerful! It took place in Palmyra New York, and was themed around personal revelation, the Atonement, and Heavenly Fathers love for his children. If you missed out on watching it, Any investigator, or member would learn more than a few things.

Some of the things that I picked up were, "When the Heavens seem closed, open the scriptures and read the word of God." This is so true! I have been reading the scriptures more than I ever had before in my life, but things are starting to stick in my memory, apply to me and all I teach, and mean a lot more because I have questions before I open the book. I know the scriptures are the word of God, it was not given to us to place on a shelf, but to read from and gain understanding in all things.

"When we pray, if we before hand prepare our self and see ourselves approaching the thrown of God to ask him personally for our needs, miracles will happen." I tried this after the broad cast a day later. It is hard to describe the spirit that came from that prayer and the feelings of hope and peace that accompanied it. I know that when we pray, we can Conquer Satan (D&C 10:5)   We can receive joys and understanding that we did not know was possible. Prayer is our way to talk with a loving Heavenly Father, who misses us- and wants the best for us. 

"Be Bold and loving!" When someone knows how much you care, they are willing to listen to what you have to say. If a person knows they are loved, they can handle and understand correction. I know that loving one another was a Commandment. It is something that Heavenly Father has asked us to do. If we do listen and obey, then our friends, family... will understand that when you ask them to change and become more like the Savior, it is out of love.

"The Atonement was what the Savoir did for us. Because of the Atonement, Heavenly Father gave Christ the ability to forgive us of our sins." We All make mistakes. There is no perfect person here on earth. Repentance is just changing and coming closer to the Savior. But none of that would have been possible if it weren't for Christ. He loved us So much, that he died to make it possible to live forever. 

I love my savoir SO much. He is my best friend, my closest adviser, and the one who helps me bare most of my burdens. I KNOW that he loves me as well. I am positive when I see him again, I will RUN into His arms and thank him for all that he has done for me, and everyone I love.

Besides the Face to Face, our stake had a fireside and many investigators and missionaries went. It could have been compared to a spiritual punch in the face! Our Investigator Danielle Loved it! She felt inspired and motivated to rearrange her job schedule so that she could attend church every Sunday and not have to work! The Lord brings blessings in mysterious ways :)

I know that this week has been long and full of practice of patience, but I know that Sister Stowell and I did our best. We are serving the Lords mission, and live is wonderful! 

Its a good day to be a missionary!

Have an inspiring week!!

Love, Sister Elgaaen

February 27, 2017 Officially in the field!

Hello everyone!

This week has been crazy. With so much to do, it has been hard to find time to unpack and realize that I am in New York! Things here are not how I pictured them, but in a good way. Church is not like it was in Utah, there was maybe 20 people who attended, but two of them were investigators who we taught on Saturday. 

My first day officially out of the MTC and in the mission field, I committed someone to baptism with my new Companion Sister Stowell!! It was truly amazing, the promise in D&C was correct,  my joy was great when the person, Danielle, said yes to being baptized in July. 

Most people out here in Hamilton have at least on pet, but that at least gives us missionaries something to start a conversation with someone out here. The work is going well, the field is white- I just have to learn how to fully thrust in my 'sickle'. Over the period of about 4 days, we have found about 5 new potentials and confirmed three visits from a few other potentials, so this week has the potential to be very good ;)

I KNOW that this church is true. In even just a few days I have already seen miracles happen, and watched people soften there hearts. One that stands out in particular, was on Friday. Sister Stowell and I had planned the entire day, but our service opportunity finished early, so instead of walking home we both felt like maybe trying a potential who we could not seem to get a hold of the past few days. We walked over- they happened to be outside playing and were very willing to let us come back and teach the family on Monday! The mom, Kiera and her husband Jim, plus two children will hopefully be taught the restoration tonight, and be willing to let us come back 

I have been studying and learning so much more than I thought possible, even in the MTC. The world is so much different and unpredictable than I thought. But, I know that everything happens for a reason. Nothing in life, nothing in history, could ever stop the progression of this gospel or the spreading of the glad message that Sister Stowell and I are sharing. 

Something to think about- we are all children of our Heavenly Father. We all came here for a reason, and Heavenly Father wants us all to return to him. ALL being the key word. There are people who you associate with who are waiting and willing to listen to a message of hope, peace, and pure love. Isn't it interesting that the Savior, the perfect example said "Love everyone". Loving those who are different is difficult. But one way to become more like the Savior is to truly love and not judge those around us. I think if each of us prayed and asked for Charity towards others, we would have no fears about being rejected by them or talking to them- because we see there worth and love them. 

I know that Joseph Smith was a prophet called by God. I know that the Book of Mormon is true. I am like Moroni when I say that I will not deny the Christ, for I have felt his love and support more than ever these past few days. I know he lives. I know he loves me and everyone who has/ will live on this earth. I know he answers prayers. And I know, that being a missionary is one of the most divine callings anyone could strive to be worthy of.

I hope and pray that you all will continue studying and praying, for I know that it will lift your spirits and bless those around you.

Have a wonderful week, and continue Smiling!

Sister Elgaaen

 

Sister Elgaaen & Sister Stowell

Sister Elgaaen & Sister Stowell in Utica

Add caption

You should really read this book!

 

February 22,2017 Safely in Utica

Dear Brother & Sister Elgaaen,

 

Your daughter has arrived safely in the New York Utica Mission. She had a full day of training today was assigned a wonderful companion Sister Stowell and departed for her first area.   Sister Elgaaen will e-mail you Mondays, that is their preparation day.  President and Sister Rogers will take very good care of your daughter.  We look forward to having her serve in the New York Utica Mission.  Please feel free to contact the Mission Office if you have any questions. Attached are some pictures for you to enjoy.
 

Her Address will be:

66 Utica St. #2

Hamilton, NY 13346

Thank you for all your love and support.

 

 

Sister Call

Mission Secretary

New York Utica Mission

(315)736-2308

2010410@ldschurch.org

 

 

Katelyn with President & Sister Rogers

 

Katelyn with Trainer Sister Stowell

Feb 14, 2017: The Holy Ghost is the True Teacher

​Hello Family and Friend!

This week went by twice as fast as last week. 

Some of the things that were really emphasized during the many meetings, classes, and teaching practices was- I am NOT  the teacher. No matter how unique my way of sharing the gospel, no matter how much I pray, I will never be the true teacher. The spirit is. My purpose is to invite others to come unto Christ, only the Holy Ghost can confirm that what I am saying is true. Is that fact not amazing? If in the Church when we teach or give a talk, would the lessons not be smoother and the messages more clear If we realize that- without the Holy Ghost, nothing is being taught. I find that amazing. If you think about it, when you are baptized you are PROMISED to have the Holy Ghost with you always. Not when he feels like being with you, always. This means that if you live worthy of having the spirit with you, whenever you are in a situation where you bare testimony, or you need guidance/ comfort/ cleansing/ conformation- you have a member of the Godhead who will help you.

I know that is true. It amazes me how often I can feel his guidance just at the MTC.

Time is flying by, but it is comforting to know that nothing can stop Heavenly Fathers plan from happening. There is no worldly thing or disaster that could put a stop to what has been planned to happen. Everything is for a reason- even if you are unwilling to step back and look for it, there will be nothing that takes place that was not meant to happen. This time on earth is to learn and prepare to live with a loving Father who watches and cheers for us every day. Heaven is the goal, and Jesus Christ paved the road which we must follow if we want to make it there safely.

Talking about the Atonement with people who barely understand who Christ is, is different. But it is amazing how fast they are able to have faith and believe that what me and Sister Thomas is saying is true. When ever we start talking about Christ, the spirit always floods the room. 

I know that Jesus Christ, my brother and Savior, died so that I can return to Heaven. He did it for everyone who ever lived and will ever step foot on the earth. It was out of Love that he suffered and paid for all our sins. Without him we would never make it back to our Heavenly Home. He did it for EVERYONE. Remember that the next time you think about judging someone or deciding to pull someone down instead of pull them up. Heavenly Father knew that life on earth would be hard. That is why he sends his angels to go and lift and bring joy. YOU are an angel. YOU are someone who can go and lift someone up and let them know that they are priceless. Christ paid for our sins, therefore everyone on earth is of worth- it is my job as a missionary to invite others to come unto Christ, but it is all our jobs to Love one another. 

Because it is Valentines day this thought works great ;)

I know that this Church is true, I know that Joseph Smith did write the Book of Mormon, and if anyone wants to draw closer to Christ they can by reading that book. I know that Heavenly Father has a plan for ALL his children, and he desires for ALL his children to return home to him.

Have a wonderful week!

love, Sister Elgaaen​

 

Katelyn and MTC Companion Sister Thomas

Heart Attacking Doors at the MTC

New York here we come!

Sisters heading to the  New York Utica Mission lookin' Stylish!