Christmas

From Elder Kennard:

"We went to the house of a member on Christmas eve and the Bishop showed up and cooked the dinner. He is a chef so it turned out incredibly delicious. Later that night we helped this member buy pinatas and candy and on the way back their wasn't enough space in his truck so the 4 missionaries from our ward sat in back stuffing the pinatas - and our mouths - with candy. As we drove through the streets we sang Christmas carols and Feliz Navidad. It has been actually pretty cold lately but that didn't stop the fun and joy we had that night.

Talking to the Family just filled my soul with light. It was not enough time but man it feels so good to have their support.

We found lots of new investigators this week and every one of them was by a spiritual prompting. One of my favorite experiences of the week was when we visited a menos activa familia [less active family] and we realized that their cousin that was visiting wasn't a member so we sat down right away and got to know her. then we taught her the restoration. we went from strangers to best friends in 40 minutes. I really hope her, Flor, and her Husband can find the missionaries where they live and progress. She was so excited to know that the Gospel had been restored.

As for spiritual experiences I have just been pounded with what I want to do better on this year that is coming up. I have grown so so much in the Gospel, in my testimony, the power of the spirit I teach, and the knowledge that God has granted me. ... We are surrounded by angels and the Holy Ghost that quite literally puts people in our path so that it is impossible to move on without bringing someone closer to our Father. This is my joy, this is my life's work, this is God's greatest gift and joy to live for the lives and hopes of others, letting them realize their potential and seeing them reach new goals and spiritual levels. It brings tears to my eyes to think that God has found me worthy of such a gift in my life.

Feliz Navidad, y prospero año nuevo."