Katelyn Elgaaen in Utica New York

Sunday, March 4, 2018

February 19, 2018 Teaching and Learning

We had Zone Conference this week, and Sister Morley and I had a training during part of it that we were able to teach everyone else in the Zone about how the Book of Mormon answers the questions of the soul.

I think that the most important thing that we talked about was the use of a study journal. I is critical that we record the sacred truths that are given to us as we study, ponder, and pray. I know for me as I record my new understandings, I am more able to retain them. It is how I show the Lord that I appreciate what He has helped me understand and that I am ready for more.

Something that one of the Zone Leader's talked about in there presentation was the importance of having a 'loaded' Book of Mormon. They told us that we should have quotes, markings, and things placed in our personal copy of the Book of Mormon so if someone presents a question, we will be able to 'fight' and defend the faith. I loved this analogy because- serving a mission is like fighting on the front lines of a battle field. Daily we find and teach people who are in need of protection against satan and his followers. I know that as I have filled my favorite book with references and quotes, I feel better prepared to go out and search in the depths of New York for those in need. You will not feel safe going into battle if you have no bullets.

The Book of Mormon truly does have the answers to the souls deepest questions. it does answer things like;

What is my purpose?

Why do bad things happen to good people?

If God really loved me, why would he allow me to feel so hurt? ......

I LOVE THE BOOK OF MORMON!

I have found so many answers to questions that I did not know I had.

I promise that as we each select a personal copy of the Book of Mormon and 'load it' when those we love, or those we know present soul questions; we will be prepared and able to shoot away the negativity and bring them unto the great healer.

I know that this book was saved for our day. There is something written in for each one of God's children that will bless them everyday.

I hope we all can find the joy meant from the Book of Mormon and spoken of by the Prophets.

Have a wonderful week!

Love, Sister Elgaaen

The Sister's in the Zone!

Sister Morrey, Sister Billin, Sister Miner, Sister Rogers, Sister Morley, Sister Keller, Sister Hamblin, Sister Downs, Sister Dupaix

Sister Elgaaen, Sister Williams (in the front... She is shorter than me!!!)

Us on Valentines day!

Well... I am short :) But we match

Me and my Valentines hedgehog!

Thursday, February 15, 2018

February 12,2018 The Temple!

This week was truly wonderful. The Elder's had 2 baptisms! And to make it better, Sister Morley and I also went to the Temple to worship the Lord and be renewed from all the worldly weight that we had collected.

Something that I have been studying was the Atonement, and why we needed a savior. We truly all are indebted to Heavenly Father, and without the great Mediator and our Redeemer, we never could or would be able to repay Him. I am SO grateful for all that Christ has done for me. I know that He understands my sorrows, has conquered my fears, and is able to see clearly through my afflictions. I know as I turn to Him there is nothing that I can't do.

A cool thought that was given at a baptism this past Saturday was, We are the pen that Heavenly Father uses to write another person's name into the Book of Life. As we lead and guide and walk beside our fellow men, bringing them closer to Christ- we are then able to feel the joy that comes from this and be an instrument in guiding them Home.

Let us this week record our testimony of our savior and what he has done for us, then share this with someone who we know needs to feel the pure Love of Christ. I know that as we do this with a prayerful heart, we will be the answer to anther's desperate plea to know if Heavenly Father knows them.

Palmyra Temple

Sister's Elgaaen, Morley, Billin, and Miner Exchanges

Sister Billin and Elgaaen

Sister Elgaaen & Miner Chess anyone?

Lunch at the Blue Ribbon

Monday, February 12, 2018

February 5, 2018 Out for a Year and Looking Back:)

I can hardly believe that I have been out serving the Lord for a little over a year!

My faith and understanding of this Gospel has just grown in feet.

I know that this church is true! There is no other Religion that could bring the peace and comfort that this Gospel brings me.

A quote by Elder Holland about Sister Missionaries states, "Many young women are serving missions. Many are preparing to serve, not because they aren't married or have nothing else to do' but because they have a desire to serve and therefore are being called to the work. The reason so many are going is because in the next generation, Heavenly Father will be sending His Priesthood Army to the earth and wants to send them to Mothers who have been properly trained and taught in the gospel." This reminds me of D&C 4. It states that those who have a desire to serve God are called to the work!

I know that when I submitted my papers over a year ago, that I knew this is the path Heavenly Father needed me to take. I am so grateful for the places he has sent me to, and the companions that I have had.

My understanding and desire grow daily to love the people and bring them closer to there savior.

I hope that this week we are all able to recognize where we have been, where we are, and where our choices are taking us now. I know that serving a mission is not for everyone- but in different ways we each serve a mission where ever we are if we are obeying and listening to the promptings of the Holy Spirit.