Tuesday, December 16, 2014
New Address
I've updated Elder Holbrook's address on the right sidebar if you would like to send him a note! I'm sure he would love to hear from any and all! Thanks for supporting him!
Exciting weather and work! 12/15/14
It's been a really exciting week here!
To start off with: December tornadoes! Sounds awesome, right?
I guess the story goes something like this: My companion and I were headed to dinner, there was a light drizzle going on, nothing massive really. The weather was pretty interesting looking though (I'll attach some photo's). We had some sun rain and a double rainbow. We got to our dinner appointment with the other Elder's who serve in our ward and started to help out with the cooking. As we're helping, I thought I heard a very loud radio dispatch pager go off outside of the window(probably some cop in the apartment complex), followed by a wonderful tornado siren! The first question I asked myself was this: "Why are there tornado sirens going off in the middle of December?" Then the more logical, active portion of my brain took over and came to the conclusion that there's a tornado forming in December because Oklahoma's weather doesn't have any logical boundaries and it does what it wants, whatever the season. Brother Merwin, deciding that it was somewhere in the city and we should probably get more informed than we currently were, turned on the TV to the channel 9 news station, where we see the weatherman using lots of hand gestures and pointing out that there's a tornado northeast of us about 20 miles away moving away from our direction. About 2 minutes later the siren's disengaged and the tornado watch was lifted, so we resumed cooking and ate a wonderful dinner, gave a spiritual message, and resumed proselyting.
A day in the life of an Oklahoman missionary. Exciting, right?
Other than severe weather we were totally not prepared for, it's been a great time here in Quail Creek! We are finding new people to teach, through members and our own efforts. Our area isn't where it needs to be, but we're getting it there! Members are picking up a lot of slack and we are getting referrals, which is the best way to do missionary work. Our ward is so awesome!
Chelsae White is our only baptismal date currently. We haven't been able to meet with her this week, unfortunately. The Murphy's have been pretty busy, and we know that a family member of Chelsae's had a birthday so we knew it was going to be rough to try to get a visit in. We're hoping that we will see her this week.
Cam hasn't talked to us in a long time. We haven't officially met him since that dinner appointment, so we're looking at dropping him. We were hoping that the Wiberg family was going to be able to set something up sometime on a Friday, but it looks like it may not happen the way that it was planned (surprising, I know...).
We have two new investigators we found through our own efforts: The Tkatch family! I wasn't there to teach them, 'cause I was on exchanges with Elder Hightower, my district leader, but it was an awesome lesson and they want to learn more. I don't have a lot of details, so I will have to fill y'all in next week.
Things are beginning to boom here in the city, and I think it's going to keep on booming as we find new people to teach. I'm excited for what we can accomplish this next week!
I love my mission! I love the people here in Oklahoma! This has been such a great experience for me! If you are reading this and you're considering a mission, I would suggest to you to study, ponder and pray about it. You'll get your answer, and I'm sure it will be a resounding "Yes!"
Thanks for all of the love and support y'all have given me!
-Elder Holbrook
To start off with: December tornadoes! Sounds awesome, right?
I guess the story goes something like this: My companion and I were headed to dinner, there was a light drizzle going on, nothing massive really. The weather was pretty interesting looking though (I'll attach some photo's). We had some sun rain and a double rainbow. We got to our dinner appointment with the other Elder's who serve in our ward and started to help out with the cooking. As we're helping, I thought I heard a very loud radio dispatch pager go off outside of the window(probably some cop in the apartment complex), followed by a wonderful tornado siren! The first question I asked myself was this: "Why are there tornado sirens going off in the middle of December?" Then the more logical, active portion of my brain took over and came to the conclusion that there's a tornado forming in December because Oklahoma's weather doesn't have any logical boundaries and it does what it wants, whatever the season. Brother Merwin, deciding that it was somewhere in the city and we should probably get more informed than we currently were, turned on the TV to the channel 9 news station, where we see the weatherman using lots of hand gestures and pointing out that there's a tornado northeast of us about 20 miles away moving away from our direction. About 2 minutes later the siren's disengaged and the tornado watch was lifted, so we resumed cooking and ate a wonderful dinner, gave a spiritual message, and resumed proselyting.
A day in the life of an Oklahoman missionary. Exciting, right?
Other than severe weather we were totally not prepared for, it's been a great time here in Quail Creek! We are finding new people to teach, through members and our own efforts. Our area isn't where it needs to be, but we're getting it there! Members are picking up a lot of slack and we are getting referrals, which is the best way to do missionary work. Our ward is so awesome!
Chelsae White is our only baptismal date currently. We haven't been able to meet with her this week, unfortunately. The Murphy's have been pretty busy, and we know that a family member of Chelsae's had a birthday so we knew it was going to be rough to try to get a visit in. We're hoping that we will see her this week.
Cam hasn't talked to us in a long time. We haven't officially met him since that dinner appointment, so we're looking at dropping him. We were hoping that the Wiberg family was going to be able to set something up sometime on a Friday, but it looks like it may not happen the way that it was planned (surprising, I know...).
We have two new investigators we found through our own efforts: The Tkatch family! I wasn't there to teach them, 'cause I was on exchanges with Elder Hightower, my district leader, but it was an awesome lesson and they want to learn more. I don't have a lot of details, so I will have to fill y'all in next week.
Things are beginning to boom here in the city, and I think it's going to keep on booming as we find new people to teach. I'm excited for what we can accomplish this next week!
I love my mission! I love the people here in Oklahoma! This has been such a great experience for me! If you are reading this and you're considering a mission, I would suggest to you to study, ponder and pray about it. You'll get your answer, and I'm sure it will be a resounding "Yes!"
Thanks for all of the love and support y'all have given me!
-Elder Holbrook
 |
| Cheap gas in Oklahoma!! |
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Busy in the city! 12/8/14
Hey Friends and Family,
Another busy week in the City! Elder Rumsey and I have been doing a lot of finding through members, and we're getting some people to teach. It's weird, the city is pretty fast paced but our area is slow, so it's like playing the hurry-up-and-wait game. But we are getting to where we need to be.
The weather is warming up a bit but we're waiting for the eventual crash towards winter (I think it starts on the 17th). We've been getting a lot of fog and rain, which is really cool to bike in. Elder Rumsey's bike is a little broken right now so as it's in the process of getting repaired we are using another Elder's bike that never uses it.
We saw the Christmas Devotional last night! It was really good! I'd recommend all to watch the rebroadcast! There are some really good things said about the Saviors birth and the traits of his earthly family.
Our investigators have had some setbacks but they should be doing better this week. We found out that Camel is going to be harder to meet with than previously expected. We weren't able to meet with Chelsea this week because of a swim meet, but we should be seeing her sometime in the middle of the week.
Like I said before, we're still in finding mode talking with as many people as we can. It's fun and we're hoping to see some fruits from our labors.
I am loving it here, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Thanks for all of the support y'all have been giving me! Stay strong in the gospel and in the faith of Jesus Christ!
Elder Holbrook
Another busy week in the City! Elder Rumsey and I have been doing a lot of finding through members, and we're getting some people to teach. It's weird, the city is pretty fast paced but our area is slow, so it's like playing the hurry-up-and-wait game. But we are getting to where we need to be.
The weather is warming up a bit but we're waiting for the eventual crash towards winter (I think it starts on the 17th). We've been getting a lot of fog and rain, which is really cool to bike in. Elder Rumsey's bike is a little broken right now so as it's in the process of getting repaired we are using another Elder's bike that never uses it.
We saw the Christmas Devotional last night! It was really good! I'd recommend all to watch the rebroadcast! There are some really good things said about the Saviors birth and the traits of his earthly family.
Our investigators have had some setbacks but they should be doing better this week. We found out that Camel is going to be harder to meet with than previously expected. We weren't able to meet with Chelsea this week because of a swim meet, but we should be seeing her sometime in the middle of the week.
Like I said before, we're still in finding mode talking with as many people as we can. It's fun and we're hoping to see some fruits from our labors.
I am loving it here, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Thanks for all of the support y'all have been giving me! Stay strong in the gospel and in the faith of Jesus Christ!
Elder Holbrook
Pictures! 12/8/14
 |
| Boots!! |
 |
 |
| Beau and Monica and their son-- Elder Holbrook baptized Beau on Elder Holbrook's birthday! |
 |
| Pancakes with the district in Quail Creek |
Year mark! (In 3 days) 12/1/14 #heisthegift
Hello everybody!
Holy cow, where did the time go? These past 12 months flew by and they're still speeding up! It's terrifying but exhilarating at the same time. Time flies when you're working hard and having fun!
The weather is chilly at the moment, with storms on the horizon for the rest of the week in OKC. I love the extreme weather, so people will probably be finding Elder Holbrook and Elder Rumsey biking in the rain, knocking on doors, or something ridiculous involving finding people to teach.
The city is an ocean of people. Talking to all of them is pretty difficult but with the "He is the Gift Initiative", we begin by having a casual conversation about Christmas and what our thoughts are on the season. The Church is pushing for greater member missionary work through the distribution of 9 pass along cards in each copy of the Ensign. These are to be given to those who may be willing to hear a message about Jesus Christ and how he has restored his gospel in these latter days. Visit christmas.mormon.org, view the video, and invite all to 'Learn More' underneath the video and explore what we believe by meeting with the missionaries. We are to discover the Gift, embrace the Gift, and share the Gift this Christmas season. Participate in the flood of good through the use of social media and sharing the pass along cards!
The ward here in Quail Creek is pretty big, with some very big spiritual giants. Last night we were able to meet with a former investigator who was a family friend of the Murphy's, members who are absolutely solid at sharing the gospel. The former's name is Chelsea White, a friend of the Murphy's daughter. She attended church yesterday and that evening wanted to meet with us. She has accepted a baptismal date for 10 January! She is excited and she seems to be really solid about it all. Her Mother is an atheist but supports her in finding out religion for herself, and her father is a devout Catholic and was apprehensive about her meeting with us but the spirit has softened his heart and he says that whatever she decides he will support her as best he can. Last night was a literal miracle for our area.
We're going to start teaching a man named Cam. He's from Syria, and is friends with another member family, the Wiberg's. He has a really interesting story I am not supposed to disclose over the internet because of "national security", so I guess that will have to be saved for a later time. He is really solid and requested an Arabic Book of Mormon.
Right now those are our two solid people. We're finding people to teach like mad, so now it's the process of turning them all into investigators who progress. It's been a great last couple of weeks and I'm sure even greater is to come as my companion and I work diligently to serve the Lord with all of our heart, might, mind, and strength!
I know that this work is inspired of God. I have been here in Oklahoma for a year now, and I know that I am here for a reason. I'm going to do the best I can to continue to serve him diligently and to trust in him completely. I'm learning to rely on my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I invite all to do the same. Study out the scriptures, find out the truth, become protected through His saving grace. This Christmas season, focus less on the world and more on the Lord of Lord's, and King of Kings. I promise that if you will do this you will feel the spirit of the Lord working inside of you, growing your faith and strengthening your testimony. I know of these things myself and I testify of them.
With Love,
Elder Holbrook
Holy cow, where did the time go? These past 12 months flew by and they're still speeding up! It's terrifying but exhilarating at the same time. Time flies when you're working hard and having fun!
The weather is chilly at the moment, with storms on the horizon for the rest of the week in OKC. I love the extreme weather, so people will probably be finding Elder Holbrook and Elder Rumsey biking in the rain, knocking on doors, or something ridiculous involving finding people to teach.
The city is an ocean of people. Talking to all of them is pretty difficult but with the "He is the Gift Initiative", we begin by having a casual conversation about Christmas and what our thoughts are on the season. The Church is pushing for greater member missionary work through the distribution of 9 pass along cards in each copy of the Ensign. These are to be given to those who may be willing to hear a message about Jesus Christ and how he has restored his gospel in these latter days. Visit christmas.mormon.org, view the video, and invite all to 'Learn More' underneath the video and explore what we believe by meeting with the missionaries. We are to discover the Gift, embrace the Gift, and share the Gift this Christmas season. Participate in the flood of good through the use of social media and sharing the pass along cards!
The ward here in Quail Creek is pretty big, with some very big spiritual giants. Last night we were able to meet with a former investigator who was a family friend of the Murphy's, members who are absolutely solid at sharing the gospel. The former's name is Chelsea White, a friend of the Murphy's daughter. She attended church yesterday and that evening wanted to meet with us. She has accepted a baptismal date for 10 January! She is excited and she seems to be really solid about it all. Her Mother is an atheist but supports her in finding out religion for herself, and her father is a devout Catholic and was apprehensive about her meeting with us but the spirit has softened his heart and he says that whatever she decides he will support her as best he can. Last night was a literal miracle for our area.
We're going to start teaching a man named Cam. He's from Syria, and is friends with another member family, the Wiberg's. He has a really interesting story I am not supposed to disclose over the internet because of "national security", so I guess that will have to be saved for a later time. He is really solid and requested an Arabic Book of Mormon.
Right now those are our two solid people. We're finding people to teach like mad, so now it's the process of turning them all into investigators who progress. It's been a great last couple of weeks and I'm sure even greater is to come as my companion and I work diligently to serve the Lord with all of our heart, might, mind, and strength!
I know that this work is inspired of God. I have been here in Oklahoma for a year now, and I know that I am here for a reason. I'm going to do the best I can to continue to serve him diligently and to trust in him completely. I'm learning to rely on my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I invite all to do the same. Study out the scriptures, find out the truth, become protected through His saving grace. This Christmas season, focus less on the world and more on the Lord of Lord's, and King of Kings. I promise that if you will do this you will feel the spirit of the Lord working inside of you, growing your faith and strengthening your testimony. I know of these things myself and I testify of them.
With Love,
Elder Holbrook
First week in Quail Creek 11/24/14
Hey Everyone!
Holy cow, I'm not really sure where to begin with this one! It feels like last Monday was a couple of months ago. I left Lawton on Wednesday after saying some short goodbyes on Tuesday. It's been an amazing seven and a half months in Lawton and I have enjoyed it all! We got to transfers in OKC at around 10:00, met my new companion Elder Rumsey, who is awesome by the way but I'll tell you more about him later on. We then drove to our District Leaders apartment, where he fed us cinnamon roll pancakes, which tasted great, not gonna lie. Afterwards we got to our apartment, got some things situated, and started to visit less actives and tract around the area. We walked into an area with only 2 investigators, 1 of which had moved and was awaiting return. We have a lot of work to do, and I am so excited to be able to have a part in it!
The Quail Creek ward is awesome! We spoke in sacrament meeting last Sunday and it went well! The members are missionary oriented, and we are expecting a lot of referrals as we gain the trust of the members. We're showing them that we are here to work hard, and we are willing to become friends with those they want to bring to the gospel.
Elder Rumsey is a very motivated missionary. He loves to work, and he isn't afraid to go out into the rain to get some tracting done on bikes. He will be entering the Marine Corps as well, so you can imagine that we get along quite well. He's a bit quiet, but I'm willing to bet that his shell will be broken soon. He's a great teacher (he's been out for 17ish months now).
So this library doesn't like people who have guest passes, so my time is nearly up. Next week I'll have a library card, so I will have more time to do this.
All I can say is that I am excited to be here so that I can work hard. I love this gospel and the message of peace that it has for all of God's children.
I love you all,
Elder Holbrook
Holy cow, I'm not really sure where to begin with this one! It feels like last Monday was a couple of months ago. I left Lawton on Wednesday after saying some short goodbyes on Tuesday. It's been an amazing seven and a half months in Lawton and I have enjoyed it all! We got to transfers in OKC at around 10:00, met my new companion Elder Rumsey, who is awesome by the way but I'll tell you more about him later on. We then drove to our District Leaders apartment, where he fed us cinnamon roll pancakes, which tasted great, not gonna lie. Afterwards we got to our apartment, got some things situated, and started to visit less actives and tract around the area. We walked into an area with only 2 investigators, 1 of which had moved and was awaiting return. We have a lot of work to do, and I am so excited to be able to have a part in it!
The Quail Creek ward is awesome! We spoke in sacrament meeting last Sunday and it went well! The members are missionary oriented, and we are expecting a lot of referrals as we gain the trust of the members. We're showing them that we are here to work hard, and we are willing to become friends with those they want to bring to the gospel.
Elder Rumsey is a very motivated missionary. He loves to work, and he isn't afraid to go out into the rain to get some tracting done on bikes. He will be entering the Marine Corps as well, so you can imagine that we get along quite well. He's a bit quiet, but I'm willing to bet that his shell will be broken soon. He's a great teacher (he's been out for 17ish months now).
So this library doesn't like people who have guest passes, so my time is nearly up. Next week I'll have a library card, so I will have more time to do this.
All I can say is that I am excited to be here so that I can work hard. I love this gospel and the message of peace that it has for all of God's children.
I love you all,
Elder Holbrook
9 baptismal dates and Transfer! 11/17/14
Hey Family and Friends!
The temperatures have really cooled off this past weekend but they are beginning to warm up just a bit. We got snowfall yesterday, which was really nice to see. It feels like it's been too long since I've seen real snow.
Getting down to business because of time constraints:
I am leaving Lawton and going to Quail Creek, which is in Oklahoma City. The address I have been given is: 3101 NW 150 St. Apt. 35G, Oklahoma City, OK 73135. If this isn't the correct address I will repost it next week. (Update: change in zip code! 73134 NOT 73135)
My new companion is Elder Rumsey, who has extremely similar interests that I do. I am sure this is going to be a great companionship.
This week at Fort Sill was really awesome. We were able to get 9 baptismal dates with Soldiers, and there were really great prospects of further success coming from the first discussion. I will miss Fort Sill a lot, but I know that the Lord has greater things for me in store at Quail Creek. I am super excited for the change. I've been in one zone so far in my mission, and my first area is only 33 miles away. I am glad that I will be able to see a different part of Oklahoma!
My testimony has grown so much since I have been here. Lawton has been my "proving ground", so to speak. I am excited to move on, but I will always remember the hearts that the Lord was able to change while I have been here. I'm proud to have served here.
Love all of ya,
Elder Holbrook
The temperatures have really cooled off this past weekend but they are beginning to warm up just a bit. We got snowfall yesterday, which was really nice to see. It feels like it's been too long since I've seen real snow.
Getting down to business because of time constraints:
I am leaving Lawton and going to Quail Creek, which is in Oklahoma City. The address I have been given is: 3101 NW 150 St. Apt. 35G, Oklahoma City, OK 73135. If this isn't the correct address I will repost it next week. (Update: change in zip code! 73134 NOT 73135)
My new companion is Elder Rumsey, who has extremely similar interests that I do. I am sure this is going to be a great companionship.
This week at Fort Sill was really awesome. We were able to get 9 baptismal dates with Soldiers, and there were really great prospects of further success coming from the first discussion. I will miss Fort Sill a lot, but I know that the Lord has greater things for me in store at Quail Creek. I am super excited for the change. I've been in one zone so far in my mission, and my first area is only 33 miles away. I am glad that I will be able to see a different part of Oklahoma!
My testimony has grown so much since I have been here. Lawton has been my "proving ground", so to speak. I am excited to move on, but I will always remember the hearts that the Lord was able to change while I have been here. I'm proud to have served here.
Love all of ya,
Elder Holbrook
Investigator update 11/10/14
Hey Family and Friends!
So it's been kinda warming up around here, but we're about to get attacked by a "polar vortex", which apparently scares people from here. It's my understanding that the phrase is basically a fancy way of saying "It's going to be cold because of Canada". I'm excited for the cool weather to really start, but I know that Oklahoma winters are pretty weird here, as it was 60 degrees when I stepped out of the plane when I first got here, but then a week later it was about 20 degrees with an ice storm. Oklahoma's weather is pretty broken, still not as bad as North Dakota though (shout out to Dad).
Fort Sill went really well this week! We got two baptisms, and I am trying to get the pictures because my camera was dead on Sunday. I'll have to have them sent to me by Elder Winterton, my Post companion. We've been having a lot of success, and we're getting work done there. It's amazing how the Lord has prepared these soldiers for the gospel message. This next week I will be teaching The Restoration to a large group of soldiers and starting another discussion cycle, as we call it. It's pretty crazy because we have such a short amount of time to teach, but the spirit does all of the conversion work there. If the baptisms were just up to the four missionaries on post, we wouldn't have near the amount of success we have been receiving.
We're making good progress with some of our investigators outside of Fort Sill as well.
Jesse Martin \\ Jesse has been investigating ever since his wife got baptized...while he was on deployment in Korea. He has been a hardcore southern baptist, but he is honestly seeking the truth about the Church. He is currently separated from his family because of his military position (they're in Washington). He wants to be baptized when he goes back home in December, so we are going to teach him and then send him on his way. The missionaries in Washington will be able to baptize him over there. He's been attending church for awhile now but this week he was sick. We're excited for him!
Steven Haywood \\ I've mentioned Steven beforehand several times I believe...we have dropped him several times, but as we do that he starts to progress. It's kind of like playing a game of cat and mouse, just with reading the Book of Mormon, praying, and coming to church. We have picked him up again and we're hoping to be able to start teaching him on a regularly scheduled basis.
James, Malinda, and Rebecca Carpenter \\ Last night we had the opportunity to go to the Melling's home, local members who live on Fort Sill. They have been in contact with one of the families that Bro. Melling has had appointments with (He's an eye doctor). The Carpenter family is having some pretty big marital issues right now. We're helping Malinda progress, albeit slowly, due to the fact that she can barely comprehend English. James is a bit Agnostic right now so we're helping him understand that God is our Loving Heavenly Father.
Patrick and Chris Webb \\ Patrick and Chris came to church about two weeks ago. Patrick has been going through another rough patch after he had a stroke. Chris was released from the Psych Ward about three weeks ago as well. That family really needs the gospel in their life so Elder Burnham and I are doing the best we can.
Speaking of Elder Burnham, we're doing well! We've been able to do a lot of work and it's been an awesome experience to work with him. 19 November is the transfer date, and I will update y'all on where I am going or if I stay or whatever happens to me. Next week at this time we will all know what's going on.
I just want to leave with my testimony. This gospel means everything to me now. I know that Heavenly Father loves me and all of his children, and that is why we have this wonderful restored gospel for us to use. That's why Jesus Christ was sent to perform the Infinite Atonement. That's why we are all here on this earth today, learning and growing. I have seen how reading, studying, pondering and praying about the Book of Mormon has blessed my life. I encourage all to diligently study its precepts.
With love,
Elder Holbrook
So it's been kinda warming up around here, but we're about to get attacked by a "polar vortex", which apparently scares people from here. It's my understanding that the phrase is basically a fancy way of saying "It's going to be cold because of Canada". I'm excited for the cool weather to really start, but I know that Oklahoma winters are pretty weird here, as it was 60 degrees when I stepped out of the plane when I first got here, but then a week later it was about 20 degrees with an ice storm. Oklahoma's weather is pretty broken, still not as bad as North Dakota though (shout out to Dad).
Fort Sill went really well this week! We got two baptisms, and I am trying to get the pictures because my camera was dead on Sunday. I'll have to have them sent to me by Elder Winterton, my Post companion. We've been having a lot of success, and we're getting work done there. It's amazing how the Lord has prepared these soldiers for the gospel message. This next week I will be teaching The Restoration to a large group of soldiers and starting another discussion cycle, as we call it. It's pretty crazy because we have such a short amount of time to teach, but the spirit does all of the conversion work there. If the baptisms were just up to the four missionaries on post, we wouldn't have near the amount of success we have been receiving.
We're making good progress with some of our investigators outside of Fort Sill as well.
Jesse Martin \\ Jesse has been investigating ever since his wife got baptized...while he was on deployment in Korea. He has been a hardcore southern baptist, but he is honestly seeking the truth about the Church. He is currently separated from his family because of his military position (they're in Washington). He wants to be baptized when he goes back home in December, so we are going to teach him and then send him on his way. The missionaries in Washington will be able to baptize him over there. He's been attending church for awhile now but this week he was sick. We're excited for him!
Steven Haywood \\ I've mentioned Steven beforehand several times I believe...we have dropped him several times, but as we do that he starts to progress. It's kind of like playing a game of cat and mouse, just with reading the Book of Mormon, praying, and coming to church. We have picked him up again and we're hoping to be able to start teaching him on a regularly scheduled basis.
James, Malinda, and Rebecca Carpenter \\ Last night we had the opportunity to go to the Melling's home, local members who live on Fort Sill. They have been in contact with one of the families that Bro. Melling has had appointments with (He's an eye doctor). The Carpenter family is having some pretty big marital issues right now. We're helping Malinda progress, albeit slowly, due to the fact that she can barely comprehend English. James is a bit Agnostic right now so we're helping him understand that God is our Loving Heavenly Father.
Patrick and Chris Webb \\ Patrick and Chris came to church about two weeks ago. Patrick has been going through another rough patch after he had a stroke. Chris was released from the Psych Ward about three weeks ago as well. That family really needs the gospel in their life so Elder Burnham and I are doing the best we can.
Speaking of Elder Burnham, we're doing well! We've been able to do a lot of work and it's been an awesome experience to work with him. 19 November is the transfer date, and I will update y'all on where I am going or if I stay or whatever happens to me. Next week at this time we will all know what's going on.
I just want to leave with my testimony. This gospel means everything to me now. I know that Heavenly Father loves me and all of his children, and that is why we have this wonderful restored gospel for us to use. That's why Jesus Christ was sent to perform the Infinite Atonement. That's why we are all here on this earth today, learning and growing. I have seen how reading, studying, pondering and praying about the Book of Mormon has blessed my life. I encourage all to diligently study its precepts.
With love,
Elder Holbrook
Monday, November 3, 2014
Busy at Ft. Sill! 11/3/14
Hey Everybody!
We had a great week! The weather has cooled off a lot, right now it's threatening to rain, which is really good because we need it badly. There are a lot of water shortages going on right now due to the dry season.
Fort Sill was busy this week. We had two baptisms, and we have three scheduled for next week, which is pretty awesome. We have been seeing an increase of success out there. It is amazing how humble and willing many of the Soldiers are as they come through BASIC training. Many come completely prepared for the gospel, and we are able to witness the harvest of some of Heavenly Father's planted crop.
Chad Bolton is now a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints! Two days before his baptism he told his wife he was going to be baptized, and it shocked her pretty hard. It was supposed to be a big surprise for her on the day of Chad's baptism, but I guess it fell through when she demanded where he was going when he was meeting with us to get the lessons. You can't really dodge the demands of your wife so he told her what was going on.
Beau and Monica are doing well, although Beau is fighting a knee infection so it prevents him from walking too far. They came to church on Sunday, which was good but Beau really needed some rest. He went to the ER and got some antibiotics.
Unfortunately my camera is in the apartment right now, so I don't have the ability to send pictures, so y'all are going to have to wait another week for those!
(I asked Elder Holbrook what his P-day schedule was and this is what he wrote...)
Our p-day schedule goes something like this:
Laundry/Study/Write Letters @ 7-10
Shop/Email/Lunch @ 10-2
Sports/Another random activity @ 2-4
Dinner @ 5
The order just depends on what everyone wants to do. Since you have to stay with your companion all the time you have to work out what you want to do and what you're able to do.
I love this gospel so much. My personal growth has increased because of this gospel, and for that I know that it is true. Witnessing the evidences of the atonement in our lives is a sweet experience to enjoy. I would encourage all of you to pray and seek to notice the effect the atonement has had in your life, and then thank Heavenly Father for it.
With Love,
Elder Holbrook
We had a great week! The weather has cooled off a lot, right now it's threatening to rain, which is really good because we need it badly. There are a lot of water shortages going on right now due to the dry season.
Fort Sill was busy this week. We had two baptisms, and we have three scheduled for next week, which is pretty awesome. We have been seeing an increase of success out there. It is amazing how humble and willing many of the Soldiers are as they come through BASIC training. Many come completely prepared for the gospel, and we are able to witness the harvest of some of Heavenly Father's planted crop.
Chad Bolton is now a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints! Two days before his baptism he told his wife he was going to be baptized, and it shocked her pretty hard. It was supposed to be a big surprise for her on the day of Chad's baptism, but I guess it fell through when she demanded where he was going when he was meeting with us to get the lessons. You can't really dodge the demands of your wife so he told her what was going on.
Beau and Monica are doing well, although Beau is fighting a knee infection so it prevents him from walking too far. They came to church on Sunday, which was good but Beau really needed some rest. He went to the ER and got some antibiotics.
Unfortunately my camera is in the apartment right now, so I don't have the ability to send pictures, so y'all are going to have to wait another week for those!
(I asked Elder Holbrook what his P-day schedule was and this is what he wrote...)
Our p-day schedule goes something like this:
Laundry/Study/Write Letters @ 7-10
Shop/Email/Lunch @ 10-2
Sports/Another random activity @ 2-4
Dinner @ 5
The order just depends on what everyone wants to do. Since you have to stay with your companion all the time you have to work out what you want to do and what you're able to do.
I love this gospel so much. My personal growth has increased because of this gospel, and for that I know that it is true. Witnessing the evidences of the atonement in our lives is a sweet experience to enjoy. I would encourage all of you to pray and seek to notice the effect the atonement has had in your life, and then thank Heavenly Father for it.
With Love,
Elder Holbrook
Sunday, November 2, 2014
Birthday and Baptisms 10/27/14
It has been an awesome week in Lawton! I had a wonderful Birthday!
 |
| Elder Holbrook turns 20!! |
We didn't have a baptism on Fort Sill this week, but we have one coming up this next week, and we're going to have three in two weeks to come. We're seeing a lot of success come from Fort Sill. It certainly is a rewarding privilege to teach there!
Chad Bolton is an investigator that we have been teaching for awhile now. He is the son-in-law of Brother Torres, a member of the branch presidency on Fort Sill. Chad will be baptized on Saturday. He's progressed a lot and has quit his chewing tobacco. I'm really excited for him to surprise his wife with his baptism. She is a member and she doesn't know that Chad is going to be baptized on Saturday till she walks in the room.
Patrick Webb has attended church with his son, Chris. They haven't been doing too well and they're in need of some prayers. Patrick has it pretty hard right now with his COPD.
Steven Haywood is making some progress, which has been pretty awesome to see. He's starting to read the Book of Mormon and understand what's going on.
Beau and Monica were married and then Beau was baptized on Saturday and then confirmed a member on Sunday! I was given the opportunity to baptize him, and I gladly accepted! Beau has made many many changes in his life, and now he's going to be a valuable member in the Church! Monica has progressed as well, and although she is awaiting rebaptism, we are planning on having Beau get the Aaronic Priesthood and having him baptize her!
 | ||
| Elder Chavez, Elder Holbrook, Beau, Elder Memmot |
It is an exciting time in their lives.
Elder Burnham and I are doing well! We have been working hard and we're seeing the fruits of our labors through these baptisms! I'm super excited to keep the momentum going!
I'm so grateful for this gospel and for the restored truth. I know that Jesus Christ lives and that he stands with his arms stretched out, waiting for us to receive him.
I love you all and I'm grateful for your support,
Love, Elder Holbrook
 |
| LARGE Spider!! |
 |
| Mattresses!! |
 |
| My companion Elder Burnham |
Two more baptisms at Ft. Sill 10/20/14
Hello y'all
My companion and I ran into an issue with logging on to the computers today. I really want to write because I have had some great experiences in the past two weeks. I'm going to write as much as possible with the short time I have, so bear with me if my letter just cuts off abruptly. Don't worry, in two months hopefully this won't ever be a problem (iPad's in December we think).
We had two baptisms for the past two weeks on Fort Sill. A Sister Garcia and a Brother Insley. Yesterday Insley's friend told us that he wanted to be baptized. We asked him about it, he said yes, and it all worked out because he had attended church three weeks in a row and had all of the lessons taken already. As I was teaching the Restoration, I was tied down so I couldn't interview him, but Elder Winterton, my Zone Leader, was able to get to him. I wasn't able to attend the baptism, but I know that he'll be a great member as he stays active in the church. Sister Garcia is in the same unit as one of our ward missionaries. She was of a catholic background, but she had a distinct feeling that the church was true. I had the opportunity to teach her all the way through, and she really is solid in the gospel.
As you know, this Saturday is the wedding of Beau and Monica, with the baptism of Beau shortly afterwards. This last weekend was our stake conference, and in the Saturday evening session, President Walkenhorst was able to speak. He called Beau, Monica, and Rolando (Monica's Son) up to the stand. He gave Beau a big hug and told the crowd all of the changes that Beau and Monica have made in their lives because of the atonement. He spoke of the doctrine of Christ, about Faith, Repentance, Baptism, The Gift of the Holy Ghost, and Enduring to the End. Finally, he spoke of member missionary work and why it's so important. My Mission President is an amazing man.
Basically Beau and Monica are the best birthday present I've ever received other than life itself...sorry Mom and Dad. ;)
Things are going well here in Lawton. Like I said before, I'll only be here for another five weeks. I don't think I will be staying here for much longer...we will see what the Lord has in store for me. I know that when I leave this city I'm going to miss it dearly. I consider Lawton to be my refiners fire, or my proving ground. I've made a lot of mistakes, and I've also been able to make a lot of improvements here. I consider myself extremely blessed to be able to serve here.
Elder Burnham and I are getting along better. We've run into some issues as a companionship, and I'll be honest, it's been because of pride between the two of us. I need to work especially hard on that one.
I love the atonement and the healing effects that it has. I love the Savior, who suffered and died for me because of love and compassion. I'm forever in debt to my God because of the experiences he has given me. I will be forever grateful for my family, for standing beside me in times of hardship and difficulty. Thank you, Mom and Dad, for making me the man that I am.
With lots of love,
Elder Holbrook
My companion and I ran into an issue with logging on to the computers today. I really want to write because I have had some great experiences in the past two weeks. I'm going to write as much as possible with the short time I have, so bear with me if my letter just cuts off abruptly. Don't worry, in two months hopefully this won't ever be a problem (iPad's in December we think).
We had two baptisms for the past two weeks on Fort Sill. A Sister Garcia and a Brother Insley. Yesterday Insley's friend told us that he wanted to be baptized. We asked him about it, he said yes, and it all worked out because he had attended church three weeks in a row and had all of the lessons taken already. As I was teaching the Restoration, I was tied down so I couldn't interview him, but Elder Winterton, my Zone Leader, was able to get to him. I wasn't able to attend the baptism, but I know that he'll be a great member as he stays active in the church. Sister Garcia is in the same unit as one of our ward missionaries. She was of a catholic background, but she had a distinct feeling that the church was true. I had the opportunity to teach her all the way through, and she really is solid in the gospel.
As you know, this Saturday is the wedding of Beau and Monica, with the baptism of Beau shortly afterwards. This last weekend was our stake conference, and in the Saturday evening session, President Walkenhorst was able to speak. He called Beau, Monica, and Rolando (Monica's Son) up to the stand. He gave Beau a big hug and told the crowd all of the changes that Beau and Monica have made in their lives because of the atonement. He spoke of the doctrine of Christ, about Faith, Repentance, Baptism, The Gift of the Holy Ghost, and Enduring to the End. Finally, he spoke of member missionary work and why it's so important. My Mission President is an amazing man.
Basically Beau and Monica are the best birthday present I've ever received other than life itself...sorry Mom and Dad. ;)
Things are going well here in Lawton. Like I said before, I'll only be here for another five weeks. I don't think I will be staying here for much longer...we will see what the Lord has in store for me. I know that when I leave this city I'm going to miss it dearly. I consider Lawton to be my refiners fire, or my proving ground. I've made a lot of mistakes, and I've also been able to make a lot of improvements here. I consider myself extremely blessed to be able to serve here.
Elder Burnham and I are getting along better. We've run into some issues as a companionship, and I'll be honest, it's been because of pride between the two of us. I need to work especially hard on that one.
I love the atonement and the healing effects that it has. I love the Savior, who suffered and died for me because of love and compassion. I'm forever in debt to my God because of the experiences he has given me. I will be forever grateful for my family, for standing beside me in times of hardship and difficulty. Thank you, Mom and Dad, for making me the man that I am.
With lots of love,
Elder Holbrook
Short but doing great! 10/13/14
I'm doing great out here! I also feel like we haven't talked in a long time as well, but it's alright though because there's always next week!
Last week we got to the library very early. Because of how chaotic P-Days can be, we aren't able to get to the library at a "usual" time.
General Conference was the bomb! It was by far one of the best conferences I've ever watched (probably because I paid a ton more attention and took diligent notes, funny how that helps, huh?). We watched it at the Stake Center! My favorite, by far, was this talk. (Approaching the Throne of God With Confidence Elder Jorg Klebingat) We are going to show that one to some less actives to help them become motivated to take action!
Oh, by the way, I'm staying in Lawton another five weeks. That's important information that I nearly forgot, amazingly. This transfer will not be a six week transfer, it'll only be five. Next transfer will be a seven week, so that will balance it back out. I believe it's done this way because of Thanksgiving and returning missionaries.
I'm glad that Dad was able to stay and you were all able to spend time with one another! I got your picture email! It's a great reminder that we have an eternal family, and that I have another brother who's watching out for me!
I gotta run right now (next weeks weekly email is going to be super long), we weren't able to get a ton of time emailing, so I have to hop off now. This district is pretty crazy but I'll give you a hefty update next week.
I'm doing my best out here and I'm still in the fight, but eventually we will win with Christ.
Love ya!
Elder Holbrook
Last week we got to the library very early. Because of how chaotic P-Days can be, we aren't able to get to the library at a "usual" time.
General Conference was the bomb! It was by far one of the best conferences I've ever watched (probably because I paid a ton more attention and took diligent notes, funny how that helps, huh?). We watched it at the Stake Center! My favorite, by far, was this talk. (Approaching the Throne of God With Confidence Elder Jorg Klebingat) We are going to show that one to some less actives to help them become motivated to take action!
Oh, by the way, I'm staying in Lawton another five weeks. That's important information that I nearly forgot, amazingly. This transfer will not be a six week transfer, it'll only be five. Next transfer will be a seven week, so that will balance it back out. I believe it's done this way because of Thanksgiving and returning missionaries.
I'm glad that Dad was able to stay and you were all able to spend time with one another! I got your picture email! It's a great reminder that we have an eternal family, and that I have another brother who's watching out for me!
I gotta run right now (next weeks weekly email is going to be super long), we weren't able to get a ton of time emailing, so I have to hop off now. This district is pretty crazy but I'll give you a hefty update next week.
I'm doing my best out here and I'm still in the fight, but eventually we will win with Christ.
Love ya!
Elder Holbrook
General Conference was AWESOME! 10/6/14
Hey Family and friends!Looks like this week we will see some hotter temperatures than what we have been having this past week. I wouldn't call it "fun" by any means but I'm going to enjoy the last moments of summer that we have.
No baptisms on Fort Sill this week. We have one next week though, so that will be exciting. I have attached the picture of the last baptism that we have had (3 Sunday's ago).
Today Elder Burnham and I will be attending the funeral of Lonnie Webb. It's a sad time for the Webb family but I hope that they will turn towards Christ to be healed of their spiritual wounds.
Beau and Monica are doing well! They are continuing to make progress and strengthen their testimonies. We have gone over the baptismal interview questions with Beau and he did well! We are very excited for them!
Chad Bolton is making progress too! He was able to watch General Conference. His baptismal date is set for 1 November. It's great to have the opportunity to see people change!
As far as our companionship goes, Elder Burnham and I are doing well! We're working hard to build our area up!
General Conference was awesome as always. Consider the modern miracle it is to be able to listen prophets and apostles speak to us directly. Listen to their inspiring messages again. Continue to grow through diligent study. Our spiritual development from conference shouldn't stop from the closing prayer! We should continue to do our part in studying the Lords words.
I am so grateful to be here in Oklahoma, serving the lord. This by far has been the best experience of my life. May we strive for missionary moments that we can be better.
Monday, September 29, 2014
Great experiences!! 9/29/14
Hello again!
Now that I have time to email, I can give you a hefty update, share some neat experiences, and hopefully share my testimony.
The weather is continuing to slowly cool off. It's been in the 80 degree region so I really can't complain. Being able to bike and feel a cooler breeze helps a lot with the humidity.
We didn't have any baptisms on Fort Sill yesterday but the week before we had Sister Vanmeerbeck, Sister Testerman, and Brother Peck. I was given the opportunity through our Mission President to perform the baptismal interview for Sister Vanmeerbeck and Brother Peck, which was a really spiritual experience as I was able to assert the growth and development of their testimonies. They have amazing testimonies of this gospel, especially since they had only been introduced to it a month prior. The growth that these soldier's make in the gospel is certainly incredible. I don't have a picture yet as it hasn't been sent to me but I'll attach it when I get it.
Speaking of Fort Sill, every Saturday morning we have a meeting to coordinate what we will be doing for that Sunday. All of the missionaries and the branch presidency meet together at Reynold's Army Hospital and we meet in a chapel located in the hospital. Bro. Torres, the second councilor, brought his son-in-law to the meeting and announced that he wanted to start investigating the Church. His name is Chad Bolton. He had just got out of the Army and is moving to a more stable career in telecommunications. His wife is a member, so because of that he has been to church a lot, but he has never had any desire to really find out the truth. However, he came to Bro. Torres and told him of his desires and how he wanted to really know if this church is true. We will continue to teach him this week.
We received a random phone call from a recently moved in member. He had just got out of BASIC training and was stationed at Fort Sill for the time being. He was baptized in BASIC at a different base but unfortunately he was never given a Book of Mormon or any other scriptures. He requested a set and we went out with Nathan Smith to deliver them to him. He's a good guy, and he really wants to start studying the scriptures in depth.
Two weeks ago we received a blessing request from the mission home for a Lonnie Webb. We called his son, Patrick, and found out that Lonnie has stage 4 Leukemia and was expected to pass away soon. Lonnie had been a member for about 40 years, but he had never attended church in the local area before. As we were traveling there, I realized that this was going to be a departing blessing, something that I had never done before. When we arrived, Lonnie requested that I would seal the anointing and pronounce the blessing. I'll be frankly honest, I was dang straight nervous. I don't remember exactly what I said, but I do remember feeling the love of the Savior for him while I was giving the blessing. Afterwards, Patrick asked if he would be able to contact Bishop for funeral arrangements and other logistics that Lonnie had requested before he had passed on. He also expressed a desire to begin meeting with us for discussions after his father passes away and the funeral is finished with. The Lord works in mysterious ways.
Beau and Monica are progressing and have set a date for their wedding and Beau's baptism! It will be on the 25th of October (No, I couldn't ask for a better birthday gift)! They have made it so far and they have been doing so well lately. Seeing them change because of the gospel has given me a better perspective about missionary work and why we really do it.
Elder Burnham and I are doing great with one another! We have been primarily focused on finding more people to teach, and we have dipped into our Former Investigator pool to see if some are now prepared to receive the gospel message.
I feel a burning desire to perform the Lord's work. I am a man of many faults, but I do know that my faults and errors can be corrected through Jesus Christ's atonement. I have a testimony that living the gospel principles and commandments brings true and everlasting happiness. I know that the Savior of my soul lives, that he was resurrected, and he performed the infinite atonement for you, me, and everyone else on earth because of his love for us. The Book of Mormon is a witness of him, it is a true testament of His love. We have modern prophets that are able to receive revelation from him, to direct the true church of Christ. Without a shadow of a doubt in my mind, I know of these things to be true.
With Love,
Elder Holbrook
Now that I have time to email, I can give you a hefty update, share some neat experiences, and hopefully share my testimony.
The weather is continuing to slowly cool off. It's been in the 80 degree region so I really can't complain. Being able to bike and feel a cooler breeze helps a lot with the humidity.
We didn't have any baptisms on Fort Sill yesterday but the week before we had Sister Vanmeerbeck, Sister Testerman, and Brother Peck. I was given the opportunity through our Mission President to perform the baptismal interview for Sister Vanmeerbeck and Brother Peck, which was a really spiritual experience as I was able to assert the growth and development of their testimonies. They have amazing testimonies of this gospel, especially since they had only been introduced to it a month prior. The growth that these soldier's make in the gospel is certainly incredible. I don't have a picture yet as it hasn't been sent to me but I'll attach it when I get it.
Speaking of Fort Sill, every Saturday morning we have a meeting to coordinate what we will be doing for that Sunday. All of the missionaries and the branch presidency meet together at Reynold's Army Hospital and we meet in a chapel located in the hospital. Bro. Torres, the second councilor, brought his son-in-law to the meeting and announced that he wanted to start investigating the Church. His name is Chad Bolton. He had just got out of the Army and is moving to a more stable career in telecommunications. His wife is a member, so because of that he has been to church a lot, but he has never had any desire to really find out the truth. However, he came to Bro. Torres and told him of his desires and how he wanted to really know if this church is true. We will continue to teach him this week.
We received a random phone call from a recently moved in member. He had just got out of BASIC training and was stationed at Fort Sill for the time being. He was baptized in BASIC at a different base but unfortunately he was never given a Book of Mormon or any other scriptures. He requested a set and we went out with Nathan Smith to deliver them to him. He's a good guy, and he really wants to start studying the scriptures in depth.
Two weeks ago we received a blessing request from the mission home for a Lonnie Webb. We called his son, Patrick, and found out that Lonnie has stage 4 Leukemia and was expected to pass away soon. Lonnie had been a member for about 40 years, but he had never attended church in the local area before. As we were traveling there, I realized that this was going to be a departing blessing, something that I had never done before. When we arrived, Lonnie requested that I would seal the anointing and pronounce the blessing. I'll be frankly honest, I was dang straight nervous. I don't remember exactly what I said, but I do remember feeling the love of the Savior for him while I was giving the blessing. Afterwards, Patrick asked if he would be able to contact Bishop for funeral arrangements and other logistics that Lonnie had requested before he had passed on. He also expressed a desire to begin meeting with us for discussions after his father passes away and the funeral is finished with. The Lord works in mysterious ways.
Beau and Monica are progressing and have set a date for their wedding and Beau's baptism! It will be on the 25th of October (No, I couldn't ask for a better birthday gift)! They have made it so far and they have been doing so well lately. Seeing them change because of the gospel has given me a better perspective about missionary work and why we really do it.
Elder Burnham and I are doing great with one another! We have been primarily focused on finding more people to teach, and we have dipped into our Former Investigator pool to see if some are now prepared to receive the gospel message.
I feel a burning desire to perform the Lord's work. I am a man of many faults, but I do know that my faults and errors can be corrected through Jesus Christ's atonement. I have a testimony that living the gospel principles and commandments brings true and everlasting happiness. I know that the Savior of my soul lives, that he was resurrected, and he performed the infinite atonement for you, me, and everyone else on earth because of his love for us. The Book of Mormon is a witness of him, it is a true testament of His love. We have modern prophets that are able to receive revelation from him, to direct the true church of Christ. Without a shadow of a doubt in my mind, I know of these things to be true.
With Love,
Elder Holbrook
Short, short! 9/22/14
Hey everybody!
I hate to swing it like this but today it's going to be a very short update! The weather is still cooling off, which makes it nice for us bikers in Oklahoma! We have had a great week and I wish I was able to share some experiences with you all about some of our investigators. We had 3 baptisms for Ft. Sill, which was an awesome experience. I'll have to send the pictures next week! It's a really exciting time for Lawton as the area is growing. Change is definitely a wonderful thing! I want you all to know that I love you and care for you. Keep up your faith in Jesus Christ, for he is the only way back to our Father in Heaven. Prepare for a big update next week! :)
Elder Holbrook
P.S. Watch the newest Mormon Message, it's awesome!
I hate to swing it like this but today it's going to be a very short update! The weather is still cooling off, which makes it nice for us bikers in Oklahoma! We have had a great week and I wish I was able to share some experiences with you all about some of our investigators. We had 3 baptisms for Ft. Sill, which was an awesome experience. I'll have to send the pictures next week! It's a really exciting time for Lawton as the area is growing. Change is definitely a wonderful thing! I want you all to know that I love you and care for you. Keep up your faith in Jesus Christ, for he is the only way back to our Father in Heaven. Prepare for a big update next week! :)
Elder Holbrook
P.S. Watch the newest Mormon Message, it's awesome!
Baptism at Ft. Sill 9/15/14
Hey y'all!
The weather has got a lot cooler in the past week or so, which is a really nice break from the hot temperature and high humidity that Oklahoma likes to bring every summer. It feels great outside but many Okies are skeptical that it will last for too long. To be honest, Oklahoma weather reminds me of North Dakota's, just a bit toned down as far as extremes go.
We had a Baptism at Ft. Sill this Sunday! Bro. Pierce was invited to come to the serviceman's branch by Copeland, his platoon leader. I wasn't there for much of his teaching but I do know that the spirit has been testifying of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon and this church. He's an amazing guy and he'll make a great Soldier. In the evening we watched the CES Devotional with D. Todd Christofferson. It was a great devotional and I would recommend that y'all would watch it!
On the 9th (Tuesday) we went up to the stake center in Norman and met with President Walkenhorst and Elder Foster. It was a great meeting! We talked a lot about our mission vision and how we can achieve 100 baptisms every month. He spoke about how we need the member's help and support to be able to accomplish anything close to what we would like to be getting. He then made a statement that I thought was pretty incredible: "It shouldn't be the members helping the missionaries, it should be the missionaries helping the members." He continued to stress about member missionary work and how much of a change has happened because of the willingness of the members to spread the gospel message to their friends and family. It made me wish that I would have been a better member missionary before my mission, but now I know that I can do a better job at inviting others to come unto Christ, even out here.
Elder Burnham and I are doing awesome! He's a fun loving guy who works hard! I'm excited for what this week holds, we have set up a lot of teaching appointments and opportunities. Changes are awesome.
We saw Beau and Monica this week. They're visiting with Bishop twice a week now for marriage counseling so that they can get it done faster. They're looking at about mid-October to get married and baptized. It will be a joyous day when it happens!
Gitta hasn't been able to get with us this week but we are looking to visit with her tomorrow! We are going to give her a German Book of Mormon so that it will be easier for her to understand exactly what is going on.
I'm loving it out here! I have been able to learn so much from my companion and from this area. I am excited to continue my service here to Oklahoma. I am strengthening my testimony that Christ lives, he directs the head of this church through Thomas S. Monson, and that the Book of Mormon is true. And really, that's all that matters in this world.
Thank you all,
Elder Holbrook
The weather has got a lot cooler in the past week or so, which is a really nice break from the hot temperature and high humidity that Oklahoma likes to bring every summer. It feels great outside but many Okies are skeptical that it will last for too long. To be honest, Oklahoma weather reminds me of North Dakota's, just a bit toned down as far as extremes go.
We had a Baptism at Ft. Sill this Sunday! Bro. Pierce was invited to come to the serviceman's branch by Copeland, his platoon leader. I wasn't there for much of his teaching but I do know that the spirit has been testifying of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon and this church. He's an amazing guy and he'll make a great Soldier. In the evening we watched the CES Devotional with D. Todd Christofferson. It was a great devotional and I would recommend that y'all would watch it!
On the 9th (Tuesday) we went up to the stake center in Norman and met with President Walkenhorst and Elder Foster. It was a great meeting! We talked a lot about our mission vision and how we can achieve 100 baptisms every month. He spoke about how we need the member's help and support to be able to accomplish anything close to what we would like to be getting. He then made a statement that I thought was pretty incredible: "It shouldn't be the members helping the missionaries, it should be the missionaries helping the members." He continued to stress about member missionary work and how much of a change has happened because of the willingness of the members to spread the gospel message to their friends and family. It made me wish that I would have been a better member missionary before my mission, but now I know that I can do a better job at inviting others to come unto Christ, even out here.
Elder Burnham and I are doing awesome! He's a fun loving guy who works hard! I'm excited for what this week holds, we have set up a lot of teaching appointments and opportunities. Changes are awesome.
We saw Beau and Monica this week. They're visiting with Bishop twice a week now for marriage counseling so that they can get it done faster. They're looking at about mid-October to get married and baptized. It will be a joyous day when it happens!
Gitta hasn't been able to get with us this week but we are looking to visit with her tomorrow! We are going to give her a German Book of Mormon so that it will be easier for her to understand exactly what is going on.
I'm loving it out here! I have been able to learn so much from my companion and from this area. I am excited to continue my service here to Oklahoma. I am strengthening my testimony that Christ lives, he directs the head of this church through Thomas S. Monson, and that the Book of Mormon is true. And really, that's all that matters in this world.
Thank you all,
Elder Holbrook
Photos of new companion and Pierce's baptism
 |
| Lawton Brick |
 |
| New companion- Elder Burnham |
 | |||||
| Baptism on Base :) Me, Copeland (platoon leader), Pierce, Elder Holman |
Teaching at Ft. Sill 9/8/14
Hey y'all!
Unfortunately because of computer time this is going to be a short one! I will do my best to update you on what's happened throughout the week!
Okay, so on Sunday I had the opportunity to teach on Post (Ft. Sill). It was one of the best experiences I have ever had on my mission. I have learned a ton from one Sunday spent out there. I was expecting some certain differences when it came to teaching, but it went really smoothly. My companion, Elder Burnham, doesn't come to Post with me, so it's a very strange situation. I teach with a returned missionary that is currently going through BASIC at that time, who happened to be Brother Pinto, who did a great job at explaining and helping me teach. I taught discussions 4 and 5 to the Soldiers that attended my class, and then myself and the other missionaries went to the baptisms of 3 soldiers who wanted to be baptized that day. It's a very regimented schedule because it's on the time of the Army, not on their own individual time, but we made it even with certain time restraints. All in all it was a great experience and I am very excited to continue to serve on Post however long I get to stay in Lawton.
We have been meeting with a lot of our investigators and have been redetermining their interest level and what they expect from us, as well as what we expect from them. Through this process we have dropped a few investigators, but I will have to give that update next week because I have a few minutes left on the computer.
I want you all to know that I love you! Being on my mission has changed me for the better and I am excited for even further changes to take place! I have experienced my mission helping me in many aspects, almost too many to count. I know that the Lord's hand is in everything, and that he wants to build me and everyone else in this world up so that we can be mighty in worship and faith.
Choose the right continually,
Elder Holbrook
Unfortunately because of computer time this is going to be a short one! I will do my best to update you on what's happened throughout the week!
Okay, so on Sunday I had the opportunity to teach on Post (Ft. Sill). It was one of the best experiences I have ever had on my mission. I have learned a ton from one Sunday spent out there. I was expecting some certain differences when it came to teaching, but it went really smoothly. My companion, Elder Burnham, doesn't come to Post with me, so it's a very strange situation. I teach with a returned missionary that is currently going through BASIC at that time, who happened to be Brother Pinto, who did a great job at explaining and helping me teach. I taught discussions 4 and 5 to the Soldiers that attended my class, and then myself and the other missionaries went to the baptisms of 3 soldiers who wanted to be baptized that day. It's a very regimented schedule because it's on the time of the Army, not on their own individual time, but we made it even with certain time restraints. All in all it was a great experience and I am very excited to continue to serve on Post however long I get to stay in Lawton.
We have been meeting with a lot of our investigators and have been redetermining their interest level and what they expect from us, as well as what we expect from them. Through this process we have dropped a few investigators, but I will have to give that update next week because I have a few minutes left on the computer.
I want you all to know that I love you! Being on my mission has changed me for the better and I am excited for even further changes to take place! I have experienced my mission helping me in many aspects, almost too many to count. I know that the Lord's hand is in everything, and that he wants to build me and everyone else in this world up so that we can be mighty in worship and faith.
Choose the right continually,
Elder Holbrook
New Companion/Cleaning the Temple 9/2/14
Hello!
Transfer news! Elder Chavez is leaving Lawton and is going to Altus, only about 50 miles away! I will be staying in Lawton and my new companion will be Elder Burnham! I'm sad to see Elder Chavez leaving but I know that he will do a killer job in Altus. I don't know much about Elder Burnham but I have heard that he is solid and is willing to work hard. Also, because of this change, I will be teaching on Ft. Sill on Sunday to the BASIC trainee's who come to church. It will be an awesome experience!
To recap the week:
On Monday night (the 25th) we taught Jay and Patricia Vickers. It was an interesting meeting. Their hearts seem to be more soft this time to our message. It was difficult to teach Jay because he wouldn't keep commitments and thus he didn't make any progress. But we have left him a commitment to read and we will be following up with that this week.
We met with Steven Haywood twice this week. We talked a bit about the Plan of Salvation and what it means to be able to live again. He brought up some interesting points of doctrine that the bible points out and we were able to open up the scriptures and guide him in the right direction. He's a very interesting man, and very soft spoken. He listens intently when we teach and he keeps commitments the best he can. I'm excited for him.
Beau and Monica are still in the process of moving from their old home to a new home. We've come by to help them out for a couple of days in the week and their making progress. The Elder's Quorum helped them out Saturday morning, which was amazing to see the ward be so supportive of our investigators.
On Wednesday we went out with the youth and while Elder Chavez was on splits with Anthony Torres, a priest age young man, they found a new investigator by the name of Gitta, a german woman who "loves Jesus" and wants to know more about our beliefs and why we have been persecuted so much in history. She's a wonderful woman who knows a lot about the Bible.
On Friday night we had the opportunity to go to the temple and then to clean it with our ward. We drove up and down with the Tuckers, a young married couple. It was a really neat experience and it was the first time I had ever cleaned the temple before.
Soon (like on the 8th) we will have mission tour. Elder Foster is coming and we will receive several trainings on missionary skills from him and other mission leadership. It will be a really fun experience, so I'm excited for it to come. And after mission tour we will be having another Zone Conference in 3 or 4 weeks, so it will be a very busy month or so.
It's been a great week overall and I'm excited for tomorrow because of transfers. Thank you all for your support while I've been out here!
Elder Holbrook
Transfer news! Elder Chavez is leaving Lawton and is going to Altus, only about 50 miles away! I will be staying in Lawton and my new companion will be Elder Burnham! I'm sad to see Elder Chavez leaving but I know that he will do a killer job in Altus. I don't know much about Elder Burnham but I have heard that he is solid and is willing to work hard. Also, because of this change, I will be teaching on Ft. Sill on Sunday to the BASIC trainee's who come to church. It will be an awesome experience!
To recap the week:
On Monday night (the 25th) we taught Jay and Patricia Vickers. It was an interesting meeting. Their hearts seem to be more soft this time to our message. It was difficult to teach Jay because he wouldn't keep commitments and thus he didn't make any progress. But we have left him a commitment to read and we will be following up with that this week.
We met with Steven Haywood twice this week. We talked a bit about the Plan of Salvation and what it means to be able to live again. He brought up some interesting points of doctrine that the bible points out and we were able to open up the scriptures and guide him in the right direction. He's a very interesting man, and very soft spoken. He listens intently when we teach and he keeps commitments the best he can. I'm excited for him.
Beau and Monica are still in the process of moving from their old home to a new home. We've come by to help them out for a couple of days in the week and their making progress. The Elder's Quorum helped them out Saturday morning, which was amazing to see the ward be so supportive of our investigators.
On Wednesday we went out with the youth and while Elder Chavez was on splits with Anthony Torres, a priest age young man, they found a new investigator by the name of Gitta, a german woman who "loves Jesus" and wants to know more about our beliefs and why we have been persecuted so much in history. She's a wonderful woman who knows a lot about the Bible.
On Friday night we had the opportunity to go to the temple and then to clean it with our ward. We drove up and down with the Tuckers, a young married couple. It was a really neat experience and it was the first time I had ever cleaned the temple before.
Soon (like on the 8th) we will have mission tour. Elder Foster is coming and we will receive several trainings on missionary skills from him and other mission leadership. It will be a really fun experience, so I'm excited for it to come. And after mission tour we will be having another Zone Conference in 3 or 4 weeks, so it will be a very busy month or so.
It's been a great week overall and I'm excited for tomorrow because of transfers. Thank you all for your support while I've been out here!
Elder Holbrook
New investigators and a car (for a day or two!) :) 8/25/14
Hey everyone!
It's been a bit hot outside but we haven't noticed for the last few days because we got a car!...for 4 days...
The Sister's car will be undergoing maintenance today, so our vehicle coordinator dropped off the car 4 days early. He said that he didn't have a problem with us using it till today(Monday) so we gladly did. But we gave the keys to the sisters about 2 hours ago, so we're back to being a bike area(which is still cool, don't let anyone deceive you).
This week has been filled with service. We've helped some members mow their lawns and helped Beau and Monica move to their new home (it's still in our area though, so they aren't running away from us).
On Monday we had Zone P-Day, which was really fun! We were given a training from the Sister Training Leaders and the Zone Leaders on some different points of missionary work. We have a lot of good missionaries in our Zone.
We set a date for Beau to be baptized on 8 Oct, which means that he and Monica will have to be married late September. It's pretty exciting and our Bishop seems fine with the plan as well. This is a huge step for them but it's incredible to see how far they have come!
Last week we received a referral for one of our new investigators! Her name is Carolyn Massey, and she's hardcore baptist! When we first walked in it looked like her bible had been colored in it but the whole thing has been highlighted and marked. She has been looking for a church in Lawton that teaches "the true word of the Lord!" We gladly informed her that we were that church. She had committed to come to church with us this Sunday but she didn't show. We're going to have to follow up with her.
Last Sunday we had our Stake Priesthood meeting. It's always a good experience to be in a large priesthood body. There is a special spirit that attends and you can feel the power of the priesthood by just being in the room.
I am learning a lot out here in Lawton! We've had a busy transfer so far. Next week we will know who's getting transferred or not, so I'll keep y'all updated!
Stay on the true path,
Elder Holbrook
It's been a bit hot outside but we haven't noticed for the last few days because we got a car!...for 4 days...
The Sister's car will be undergoing maintenance today, so our vehicle coordinator dropped off the car 4 days early. He said that he didn't have a problem with us using it till today(Monday) so we gladly did. But we gave the keys to the sisters about 2 hours ago, so we're back to being a bike area(which is still cool, don't let anyone deceive you).
This week has been filled with service. We've helped some members mow their lawns and helped Beau and Monica move to their new home (it's still in our area though, so they aren't running away from us).
On Monday we had Zone P-Day, which was really fun! We were given a training from the Sister Training Leaders and the Zone Leaders on some different points of missionary work. We have a lot of good missionaries in our Zone.
We set a date for Beau to be baptized on 8 Oct, which means that he and Monica will have to be married late September. It's pretty exciting and our Bishop seems fine with the plan as well. This is a huge step for them but it's incredible to see how far they have come!
Last week we received a referral for one of our new investigators! Her name is Carolyn Massey, and she's hardcore baptist! When we first walked in it looked like her bible had been colored in it but the whole thing has been highlighted and marked. She has been looking for a church in Lawton that teaches "the true word of the Lord!" We gladly informed her that we were that church. She had committed to come to church with us this Sunday but she didn't show. We're going to have to follow up with her.
Last Sunday we had our Stake Priesthood meeting. It's always a good experience to be in a large priesthood body. There is a special spirit that attends and you can feel the power of the priesthood by just being in the room.
I am learning a lot out here in Lawton! We've had a busy transfer so far. Next week we will know who's getting transferred or not, so I'll keep y'all updated!
Stay on the true path,
Elder Holbrook
Teaching with the President! 8/18/14
Hey everybody!
My last weekly email never went through! There has been some trouble with the myldsmail system for the past couple of weeks, so hopefully the church was able to fix it.
I don't really know where to begin for updating y'all for a two week period, a lot has happened. I guess I'll just have to give you a rundown of what my investigators are learning and how we're going about teaching them.
Two weeks ago we did a ton of service for members in 1st and 2nd ward. A lot of people have been moving (thanks to the Army reassignments) and others need their lawn mowed. We were fortunate enough to have the time to proselyte afterwards.
Beau and Monica have been progressing. They have made the decision to be married by the Bishop in 1st ward, but they haven't set an exact date yet. Bishop has required of them to take a marriage counseling class, which is interesting because they have been together for five years. Beau has some special circumstances about him that needed to be cleared, so President Walkenhorst came down this Wednesday to meet with Beau and Monica. It's really strange to go out teaching with your mission president, but it was really enjoyable! President Walkenhorst has an infectious smile that lights up the room! It probably won't happen again on my mission, but I enjoyed it while it lasted.
We saw Jessica this past week! We stopped by for a short lesson on listening to the spirit and a quick introduction to the Book of Mormon. She committed to read and to pray about it. Like I said before, she's a really interesting character, and sometimes her hippie comes out boldly. She's really into the horoscope deal.
Steven Haywood is making some slow progress. On Tuesday we taught him about the Book of Mormon and why it's important. He loves to ask us questions about the Jehovah Witnesses and their beliefs versus ours. Since Elder Chavez and I have never been Jehovah Witnesses, we can't really answer those comparison questions. It seems that the Lord is working in a very mysterious way.
We had a scare with Robert Torres. We thought that he had lost his job and had moved to Ohio, but fortunately, he was able to keep his job! We are planning on meeting with him on Saturday. It sounds like he is still solid, so hopefully we will have a baptism shortly!
We got into contact with Turina, and she said that she won't be able to meet with us until her court date ends. I believe she is afraid for her life where she was living. we're trying to keep in touch but we are afraid she will slip through the cracks if we aren't careful.
We visited Jay Vickers again. He has decided that he's going to try to read the Book of Mormon more. He said that he had missed our visits and the discussions that we've had. Elder Chavez and I are going to give it another go with him.
I'm grateful to be here in Oklahoma. It's been an incredible time serving here. There are so many things that I have learned, yet so much to still learn. I'm grateful for all of your love and support!
Elder Holbrook
My last weekly email never went through! There has been some trouble with the myldsmail system for the past couple of weeks, so hopefully the church was able to fix it.
I don't really know where to begin for updating y'all for a two week period, a lot has happened. I guess I'll just have to give you a rundown of what my investigators are learning and how we're going about teaching them.
Two weeks ago we did a ton of service for members in 1st and 2nd ward. A lot of people have been moving (thanks to the Army reassignments) and others need their lawn mowed. We were fortunate enough to have the time to proselyte afterwards.
Beau and Monica have been progressing. They have made the decision to be married by the Bishop in 1st ward, but they haven't set an exact date yet. Bishop has required of them to take a marriage counseling class, which is interesting because they have been together for five years. Beau has some special circumstances about him that needed to be cleared, so President Walkenhorst came down this Wednesday to meet with Beau and Monica. It's really strange to go out teaching with your mission president, but it was really enjoyable! President Walkenhorst has an infectious smile that lights up the room! It probably won't happen again on my mission, but I enjoyed it while it lasted.
We saw Jessica this past week! We stopped by for a short lesson on listening to the spirit and a quick introduction to the Book of Mormon. She committed to read and to pray about it. Like I said before, she's a really interesting character, and sometimes her hippie comes out boldly. She's really into the horoscope deal.
Steven Haywood is making some slow progress. On Tuesday we taught him about the Book of Mormon and why it's important. He loves to ask us questions about the Jehovah Witnesses and their beliefs versus ours. Since Elder Chavez and I have never been Jehovah Witnesses, we can't really answer those comparison questions. It seems that the Lord is working in a very mysterious way.
We had a scare with Robert Torres. We thought that he had lost his job and had moved to Ohio, but fortunately, he was able to keep his job! We are planning on meeting with him on Saturday. It sounds like he is still solid, so hopefully we will have a baptism shortly!
We got into contact with Turina, and she said that she won't be able to meet with us until her court date ends. I believe she is afraid for her life where she was living. we're trying to keep in touch but we are afraid she will slip through the cracks if we aren't careful.
We visited Jay Vickers again. He has decided that he's going to try to read the Book of Mormon more. He said that he had missed our visits and the discussions that we've had. Elder Chavez and I are going to give it another go with him.
I'm grateful to be here in Oklahoma. It's been an incredible time serving here. There are so many things that I have learned, yet so much to still learn. I'm grateful for all of your love and support!
Elder Holbrook
Temple Trip 8/4/14
Hey everybody!
Oh, where to begin? It's been a weird week. It seems long but so short at the same time when looking back at it.
We were able to go to the temple on Wednesday which was a rare but greatly appreciated experience. It rained hard that day, but we were able to make it there and back safe.
Wednesday was sandwiched between some busy days. We were able to talk to a lot of people this week.
We randomly decided to try Pam again and she was there. She went on a very long vacation because of her medical conditions and she needed some get away time to reorient herself. She's still interested so we have picked her back up again. Our discussion was the Restoration, and she took it pretty well I think.
So we had a great lesson with a New Investigator of ours, Wilbert McFarquar. He's a Jamaican that joined the army and is currently working at Reynolds, the hospital on Post. He became friends with one of the radiologists in there and that friend just so happened to be Bro. Berhmann, one of our favorite member missionaries.
After our lesson with McFarquar, we had a short lesson with Beau. Monica and Beau have been talking and they have finally made the decision to be married! There hasn't been a date set yet, but they said that it will happen very soon. It's really exciting because it's the only thing holding Beau from being baptized right now! They have changed so much since I have gotten here in Lawton.
On Thursday we had a great lesson with Robert Torres. He wants to be baptized and is willing to do all that he can to get to that point. We invited him to church and he accepted, however, on Sunday he didn't answer his phone and the member picking him up wasn't able to find his home from the address we gave him. He hasn't gotten back with us yet which has Elder Chavez and I worried a bit. He does have a pretty random work schedule, considering that he lives right across the street from his workplace so he gets called in all the time. We are hoping he will call us back soon.
We stopped by Turina's apartment last night. We knocked and we didn't get an answer. I believe she is still staying with her brother for safety. We're going to keep on trying to get a hold of her this week.
We had a super short visit with Bro. Haywood this week. We caught him sleeping so we made it a short visit but we said that we would be back this week. We need to get his number so that we can call ahead of time to set up an appointment.
It's been crazy but fun. I cannot believe 8 months have already past since I stepped foot into the MTC. It's been quite the experience to be out here and it has helped me grow a lot. I have a testimony about Jesus Christ that I never thought I could have. I have been able to see people change their lives because of this gospel, and it has been a wonderful experience to see that.
Thanks for all the love and support,
Elder Holbrook
Oh, where to begin? It's been a weird week. It seems long but so short at the same time when looking back at it.
We were able to go to the temple on Wednesday which was a rare but greatly appreciated experience. It rained hard that day, but we were able to make it there and back safe.
Wednesday was sandwiched between some busy days. We were able to talk to a lot of people this week.
We randomly decided to try Pam again and she was there. She went on a very long vacation because of her medical conditions and she needed some get away time to reorient herself. She's still interested so we have picked her back up again. Our discussion was the Restoration, and she took it pretty well I think.
So we had a great lesson with a New Investigator of ours, Wilbert McFarquar. He's a Jamaican that joined the army and is currently working at Reynolds, the hospital on Post. He became friends with one of the radiologists in there and that friend just so happened to be Bro. Berhmann, one of our favorite member missionaries.
After our lesson with McFarquar, we had a short lesson with Beau. Monica and Beau have been talking and they have finally made the decision to be married! There hasn't been a date set yet, but they said that it will happen very soon. It's really exciting because it's the only thing holding Beau from being baptized right now! They have changed so much since I have gotten here in Lawton.
On Thursday we had a great lesson with Robert Torres. He wants to be baptized and is willing to do all that he can to get to that point. We invited him to church and he accepted, however, on Sunday he didn't answer his phone and the member picking him up wasn't able to find his home from the address we gave him. He hasn't gotten back with us yet which has Elder Chavez and I worried a bit. He does have a pretty random work schedule, considering that he lives right across the street from his workplace so he gets called in all the time. We are hoping he will call us back soon.
We stopped by Turina's apartment last night. We knocked and we didn't get an answer. I believe she is still staying with her brother for safety. We're going to keep on trying to get a hold of her this week.
We had a super short visit with Bro. Haywood this week. We caught him sleeping so we made it a short visit but we said that we would be back this week. We need to get his number so that we can call ahead of time to set up an appointment.
It's been crazy but fun. I cannot believe 8 months have already past since I stepped foot into the MTC. It's been quite the experience to be out here and it has helped me grow a lot. I have a testimony about Jesus Christ that I never thought I could have. I have been able to see people change their lives because of this gospel, and it has been a wonderful experience to see that.
Thanks for all the love and support,
Elder Holbrook
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
Getting the language down! 7/28/14
"Aloha!"
Just kidding, I'm in Oklahoma, not Hawaii.
"How're y'all doin' this fine day? I'm fixin' to have a good one myself!"
That's more like it.
This has been a good week for us! The weather got back to its normal temperatures, so we sweated a bit as we went places. Currently, it's raining outside. We've heard we have some rain in the forecast for the next couple of days, which will be greatly appreciated.
An update on our investigators:
Turina hasn't been able to meet with us this week. She is staying over at her brother's house after she was jumped by a group of thugs. We had an opportunity to have a short conversation with her over the phone; she's alright physically but she is traumatized by the event. We wants to keep on meeting with us but she is relocating to a different place so we may not be able to talk with her face to face. Please pray for her.
Last night we were able to set up an appointment with Steven Haywood. He hasn't been home the past few days, but we got with him finally. He's been a bit busy with work but we will see him later this week. He told us that some Jehovah Witnesses have been stopping by, which he thought was pretty funny because of all the attention he's been getting from God, as he says.
We have been able to meet a lot with Beau but not so much with Monica this last week. Beau is progressing and you can see how he has changed. He's much more spiritually minded than he was when I first met him. Monica has been very busy with work. She wants to meet but she always seems to already be asleep whenever we get to their home.
We gave a church tour to a new investigator on Thursday! Her name is Jessica. She's kind of a hippie. Alright, she's pretty much a hippie. She wanted to learn more about our church and what we believe in. We found her through the Sister missionaries in our district, who rescued her runaway puppy. She says that she is strong in her beliefs (baptist) and she isn't interested in "converting", but we'll see if her interest level improves after we teach her a few times.
We got a referral for a Robert Torres from the senior couple missionaries for Ft. Sill. We met with him last night. This guy is prepared. He has met with missionaries previously, in fact he was going to be baptized, and then he just fell short and moved away. But what's funny is that he is willing to do it now. He's gone through a lot of hardships in his life, but his faith in God has only improved through those hardships. He's eager to relearn and before we left he said "Alright, give me something to study before our next visit!". I believe this is fruit from a seed planted long ago.
The investigators I haven't mentioned in this email but have been mentioned previously are currently at a standstill. We haven't been able to meet with them for a while, but many are still interested.
This is the beginning of the first week of the transfer, so I will at least be in Lawton for another six weeks with Elder Chavez. It's great here! We are seeing success and it's wonderful to be on a mission! I have learned so much. Strength requires experience, and I'm getting a lot of experiences out here. I know that this church is true. I know that there is a prophet of God here on this earth today. I know that Jesus Christ is my savior and redeemer. I know these things because I have prayed about them, and I cannot deny the witnesses I have received. I invite all of you to do the same for yourself, not just once, but many times. Truth is eternal.
Thank you all,
Elder Holbrook
Just kidding, I'm in Oklahoma, not Hawaii.
"How're y'all doin' this fine day? I'm fixin' to have a good one myself!"
That's more like it.
This has been a good week for us! The weather got back to its normal temperatures, so we sweated a bit as we went places. Currently, it's raining outside. We've heard we have some rain in the forecast for the next couple of days, which will be greatly appreciated.
An update on our investigators:
Turina hasn't been able to meet with us this week. She is staying over at her brother's house after she was jumped by a group of thugs. We had an opportunity to have a short conversation with her over the phone; she's alright physically but she is traumatized by the event. We wants to keep on meeting with us but she is relocating to a different place so we may not be able to talk with her face to face. Please pray for her.
Last night we were able to set up an appointment with Steven Haywood. He hasn't been home the past few days, but we got with him finally. He's been a bit busy with work but we will see him later this week. He told us that some Jehovah Witnesses have been stopping by, which he thought was pretty funny because of all the attention he's been getting from God, as he says.
We have been able to meet a lot with Beau but not so much with Monica this last week. Beau is progressing and you can see how he has changed. He's much more spiritually minded than he was when I first met him. Monica has been very busy with work. She wants to meet but she always seems to already be asleep whenever we get to their home.
We gave a church tour to a new investigator on Thursday! Her name is Jessica. She's kind of a hippie. Alright, she's pretty much a hippie. She wanted to learn more about our church and what we believe in. We found her through the Sister missionaries in our district, who rescued her runaway puppy. She says that she is strong in her beliefs (baptist) and she isn't interested in "converting", but we'll see if her interest level improves after we teach her a few times.
We got a referral for a Robert Torres from the senior couple missionaries for Ft. Sill. We met with him last night. This guy is prepared. He has met with missionaries previously, in fact he was going to be baptized, and then he just fell short and moved away. But what's funny is that he is willing to do it now. He's gone through a lot of hardships in his life, but his faith in God has only improved through those hardships. He's eager to relearn and before we left he said "Alright, give me something to study before our next visit!". I believe this is fruit from a seed planted long ago.
The investigators I haven't mentioned in this email but have been mentioned previously are currently at a standstill. We haven't been able to meet with them for a while, but many are still interested.
This is the beginning of the first week of the transfer, so I will at least be in Lawton for another six weeks with Elder Chavez. It's great here! We are seeing success and it's wonderful to be on a mission! I have learned so much. Strength requires experience, and I'm getting a lot of experiences out here. I know that this church is true. I know that there is a prophet of God here on this earth today. I know that Jesus Christ is my savior and redeemer. I know these things because I have prayed about them, and I cannot deny the witnesses I have received. I invite all of you to do the same for yourself, not just once, but many times. Truth is eternal.
Thank you all,
Elder Holbrook
So Mom asked for more details...:) 7/21/14
Hey everybody!
So last week I wasn't able to type out my weekly letter. This means that you get a better update this week! Many things have happened and I am excited to tell you all about them! The weather last week was great! We had a lot of days barely touch 80. It was greatly appreciated. But now we should soon be back to our normal temperatures pretty soon (~100 degrees). I guess I need to get back to drinking water.
Elder Chavez and I are having a lot of success in Lawton. We have been to a lot of teaching appointments (I'll try to summarize them as best I can), committed a few to baptism, and hopefully, we will be able to see those investigators enter into the waters of baptism soon.
Our investigators are progressing, some...more than others, but I would say that most are moving forward:
Turina was found by a set of sister missionaries in Arkansas who then sent her info over to us so that she could be taught. She is a young mother who has been trying to improve her life after some big trials and difficulties. We taught her the Restoration two weeks ago and then this last week we taught her the Plan of Salvation. She loved both of the discussions. She is keeping commitments like reading the BofM and praying, but she hasn't been able to come to church yet. We are going to have a church tour with her this week so that she will be more motivated to come on Sunday. She has a lot of potential.
Steven Haywood is a man who lives right across the street from where the sister missionaries in our ward live. He's a soft spoken Marine veteran who I believe fought in Vietnam and saw some things. We found him through tracting. We taught him the Restoration about two weeks ago, and he was receptive. He's a bit confused about priesthood authority (like most of Oklahoma) so we are going to have a discussion about the priesthood and what it's for and why that authority is so important. He was at a family reunion last week so we weren't able to meet with him, but we definitely will this week.
Hannah keeps on making appointments but then not showing up to her own house when we have set them. She has been avoiding us, which is a bit annoying. She's on the backburner for now while we focus on bigger and better things.
John Stenman hasn't been doing well at all. He discovered recently that he has severe degenerative arthritis in his spine and he has a dropped hip on his right side. We offered to give him a priesthood blessing and he accepted, but the appointment we had set up with him fell through. Between his church school and work and now his medical situation, he has been very busy. Today we got a text saying that he wont be able to meet with us for a long time, so he is also on the backburner for now. Please keep him in your prayers.
Tommy hasn't been able to meet with us either. He is struggling to get his marriage back on track, so we have toned down our approach a bit to allow him more time with his family. We're going to set up an appointment for this week just to see how he is and if he still is interested in what we believe. He has a lot of potential, but it may not be his time to receive the Gospel.
Pam has completely dropped off the face of the earth. I'm not sure where she went but she no longer answers her door or her phone. We have dropped her for now. We'll probably try her in a month or so.
Takisha's baptismal date for the 2nd of August has dropped because she hasn't come to church yet. She is very busy with her work schedule, but she has expressed a desire to feel clean and whole again. We may be doing a church tour with her as well.
Beau and Monica have made a ton of progress in these past two weeks. Beau has quit smoking (or vaping, or whatever you call it). He threw all of his smoke machines away and now is a clean man. Beau and Monica are planning on getting married in the next month or so, and once that happens Beau will be able to be baptized. Monica still needs to meet with the bishop for her rebaptism, which will be a longer process, but she is determined to get back on track, especially if Beau is getting baptized.
Susie is doing an excellent job at avoiding us. Kind of like Pam, she has dropped off the map. She has been dropped officially.
Mike is a potential investigator we have been trying to visit for the past two weeks. We were biking when we saw him struggling to get some mattresses stacked up next to a fence. We stopped and asked if he needed any help. He allowed us to help him get them up, and then he asked us what we do. Elder Chavez said that we were missionaries for our church, doing service and sharing a message about Jesus Christ. He thought that was pretty cool and invited us to meet with him when he was off work. He owns a Motel here and is very busy, but we hope to catch him after one of his shifts this week.
Jay and Patricia are making slow progress. Two weeks ago we had a lesson on the priesthood. He didn't quite like the part where we told him that you have to get baptized by proper priesthood authority. We talked about Jesus' journey from Galilee to Jordan, how far it was, and why Christ would walk so far to John the Baptist, the only man who had that Aaronic priesthood authority to properly baptize. Something clicked with that, so he was more accepting after we had explained the background on that verse (Matt. 3:13). This last week we stopped by with Bro. Berhmann, the member who introduced us to Jay. Bro. Berhmann recently went to Salt Lake for a business trip, and he bought Jay a massive copy of Gospel Principles. We're hoping that as he studies the manual, as well as the Book of Mormon, things will begin to connect in his head.
Kayliegh had a baptismal date but it was dropped from her not attending church. We don't exactly know what's going on, but she has been going through some obvious trials recently. We will see her this Saturday, hopefully we will be able to talk with her and help her with anything.
Colin and Brandy are new investigators found through a member, Bro. Burbank. Colin has been in active military service for about 8 years, 4 of which was spent in the Marine Corps in Africa. Colin is...well, right now he considers himself a Norse, or someone who believes in the Norse gods (yes, Thor and things like that). He used to be Roman Catholic, but he had a "falling out with God" and now he doesn't think that there is a one true God. We have interesting discussions with him and his fiancee, Brandy, who is a strong baptist. It's a really unique combination in their home, but they are receptive to our message.
Raymond Sumpter is another investigator that we have because of Bro. Burbank. He works with Burbank in the Army as a medic. He's intrigued with what we believe and we had taught him some scattered lessons. He has a lot of questions, which is a great thing. We hope to see him this Sunday at church.
B.J. is a potential that we found through tracting. He was in the Army but was discharged because of medical reasons (probably). He's a bit of a gangster, but he wants to make his life better.
Nick isn't making progress at the moment. He has told us that he wants to get baptized, but that he is extremely busy right now. We're trying to fit his schedule the best we can. He believes everything that we have taught him is true, but we do want to see his testimony grow. We're on a touch and go basis, but I think that we will see a baptism out of this.
Details, details...
It was a wonderful two weeks. Hopefully this update has sated your appetite to know what's been going on in Lawton, missionary work wise. I'm thankful for all of the support I have received! Thank you for the occasional email or letter. I'm not the best at replying but I am working on that.
I know that this gospel is true. It's been a really eventful 7 Months, and I have loved every moment of it. God loves and cares for each of his children, and he wants to see them come back to him. The Book of Mormon is a convincing witness of the Restoration of Christ's church here in these latter days. I encourage all to read, ponder, and pray about its teachings and to find out for themselves if it is true. I love all of you and I hope you are recognizing the many blessings that are given freely by Him who loves us.
Keep up the good work back home,
Elder Holbrook
So last week I wasn't able to type out my weekly letter. This means that you get a better update this week! Many things have happened and I am excited to tell you all about them! The weather last week was great! We had a lot of days barely touch 80. It was greatly appreciated. But now we should soon be back to our normal temperatures pretty soon (~100 degrees). I guess I need to get back to drinking water.
Elder Chavez and I are having a lot of success in Lawton. We have been to a lot of teaching appointments (I'll try to summarize them as best I can), committed a few to baptism, and hopefully, we will be able to see those investigators enter into the waters of baptism soon.
Our investigators are progressing, some...more than others, but I would say that most are moving forward:
Turina was found by a set of sister missionaries in Arkansas who then sent her info over to us so that she could be taught. She is a young mother who has been trying to improve her life after some big trials and difficulties. We taught her the Restoration two weeks ago and then this last week we taught her the Plan of Salvation. She loved both of the discussions. She is keeping commitments like reading the BofM and praying, but she hasn't been able to come to church yet. We are going to have a church tour with her this week so that she will be more motivated to come on Sunday. She has a lot of potential.
Steven Haywood is a man who lives right across the street from where the sister missionaries in our ward live. He's a soft spoken Marine veteran who I believe fought in Vietnam and saw some things. We found him through tracting. We taught him the Restoration about two weeks ago, and he was receptive. He's a bit confused about priesthood authority (like most of Oklahoma) so we are going to have a discussion about the priesthood and what it's for and why that authority is so important. He was at a family reunion last week so we weren't able to meet with him, but we definitely will this week.
Hannah keeps on making appointments but then not showing up to her own house when we have set them. She has been avoiding us, which is a bit annoying. She's on the backburner for now while we focus on bigger and better things.
John Stenman hasn't been doing well at all. He discovered recently that he has severe degenerative arthritis in his spine and he has a dropped hip on his right side. We offered to give him a priesthood blessing and he accepted, but the appointment we had set up with him fell through. Between his church school and work and now his medical situation, he has been very busy. Today we got a text saying that he wont be able to meet with us for a long time, so he is also on the backburner for now. Please keep him in your prayers.
Tommy hasn't been able to meet with us either. He is struggling to get his marriage back on track, so we have toned down our approach a bit to allow him more time with his family. We're going to set up an appointment for this week just to see how he is and if he still is interested in what we believe. He has a lot of potential, but it may not be his time to receive the Gospel.
Pam has completely dropped off the face of the earth. I'm not sure where she went but she no longer answers her door or her phone. We have dropped her for now. We'll probably try her in a month or so.
Takisha's baptismal date for the 2nd of August has dropped because she hasn't come to church yet. She is very busy with her work schedule, but she has expressed a desire to feel clean and whole again. We may be doing a church tour with her as well.
Beau and Monica have made a ton of progress in these past two weeks. Beau has quit smoking (or vaping, or whatever you call it). He threw all of his smoke machines away and now is a clean man. Beau and Monica are planning on getting married in the next month or so, and once that happens Beau will be able to be baptized. Monica still needs to meet with the bishop for her rebaptism, which will be a longer process, but she is determined to get back on track, especially if Beau is getting baptized.
Susie is doing an excellent job at avoiding us. Kind of like Pam, she has dropped off the map. She has been dropped officially.
Mike is a potential investigator we have been trying to visit for the past two weeks. We were biking when we saw him struggling to get some mattresses stacked up next to a fence. We stopped and asked if he needed any help. He allowed us to help him get them up, and then he asked us what we do. Elder Chavez said that we were missionaries for our church, doing service and sharing a message about Jesus Christ. He thought that was pretty cool and invited us to meet with him when he was off work. He owns a Motel here and is very busy, but we hope to catch him after one of his shifts this week.
Jay and Patricia are making slow progress. Two weeks ago we had a lesson on the priesthood. He didn't quite like the part where we told him that you have to get baptized by proper priesthood authority. We talked about Jesus' journey from Galilee to Jordan, how far it was, and why Christ would walk so far to John the Baptist, the only man who had that Aaronic priesthood authority to properly baptize. Something clicked with that, so he was more accepting after we had explained the background on that verse (Matt. 3:13). This last week we stopped by with Bro. Berhmann, the member who introduced us to Jay. Bro. Berhmann recently went to Salt Lake for a business trip, and he bought Jay a massive copy of Gospel Principles. We're hoping that as he studies the manual, as well as the Book of Mormon, things will begin to connect in his head.
Kayliegh had a baptismal date but it was dropped from her not attending church. We don't exactly know what's going on, but she has been going through some obvious trials recently. We will see her this Saturday, hopefully we will be able to talk with her and help her with anything.
Colin and Brandy are new investigators found through a member, Bro. Burbank. Colin has been in active military service for about 8 years, 4 of which was spent in the Marine Corps in Africa. Colin is...well, right now he considers himself a Norse, or someone who believes in the Norse gods (yes, Thor and things like that). He used to be Roman Catholic, but he had a "falling out with God" and now he doesn't think that there is a one true God. We have interesting discussions with him and his fiancee, Brandy, who is a strong baptist. It's a really unique combination in their home, but they are receptive to our message.
Raymond Sumpter is another investigator that we have because of Bro. Burbank. He works with Burbank in the Army as a medic. He's intrigued with what we believe and we had taught him some scattered lessons. He has a lot of questions, which is a great thing. We hope to see him this Sunday at church.
B.J. is a potential that we found through tracting. He was in the Army but was discharged because of medical reasons (probably). He's a bit of a gangster, but he wants to make his life better.
Nick isn't making progress at the moment. He has told us that he wants to get baptized, but that he is extremely busy right now. We're trying to fit his schedule the best we can. He believes everything that we have taught him is true, but we do want to see his testimony grow. We're on a touch and go basis, but I think that we will see a baptism out of this.
Details, details...
It was a wonderful two weeks. Hopefully this update has sated your appetite to know what's been going on in Lawton, missionary work wise. I'm thankful for all of the support I have received! Thank you for the occasional email or letter. I'm not the best at replying but I am working on that.
I know that this gospel is true. It's been a really eventful 7 Months, and I have loved every moment of it. God loves and cares for each of his children, and he wants to see them come back to him. The Book of Mormon is a convincing witness of the Restoration of Christ's church here in these latter days. I encourage all to read, ponder, and pray about its teachings and to find out for themselves if it is true. I love all of you and I hope you are recognizing the many blessings that are given freely by Him who loves us.
Keep up the good work back home,
Elder Holbrook
4th of July 7/7/14
Hey Family and Friends!
Due to lack of time, it's going to have to be a quick update today, so here we go.
We saw some miracles over this week. On the 4th of July, we taught 3 investigators that have some serious potential. They were found through a member who works on Fort Sill. We had a dinner with this member and he invited them over so that we could teach them. They were pretty receptive, so I am excited to continue teaching them. One of those that we taught, Raymond, came to church yesterday and we taught another lesson right after sacrament meeting with him.
Beau and Monica didn't come to church yesterday, so we are going to try to visit them soon.
We had a good visit with Jay and Patricia Vickers. They are making progress. It's slow, but I feel like they will eventually come around.
We met with Takisha on Saturday. She said that she wanted to come to church, so we arranged a ride for her. Unfortunately, she was sick yesterday so we had to cancel her ride, but she should be there next week.
I hope that all is well with all that are reading this. Know that I love you and that I pray for you every day. Everyone goes through trials but I know that Jesus Christ's gospel can help us with all of them!
Thank you all for your love and support,
Elder Holbrook
Due to lack of time, it's going to have to be a quick update today, so here we go.
We saw some miracles over this week. On the 4th of July, we taught 3 investigators that have some serious potential. They were found through a member who works on Fort Sill. We had a dinner with this member and he invited them over so that we could teach them. They were pretty receptive, so I am excited to continue teaching them. One of those that we taught, Raymond, came to church yesterday and we taught another lesson right after sacrament meeting with him.
Beau and Monica didn't come to church yesterday, so we are going to try to visit them soon.
We had a good visit with Jay and Patricia Vickers. They are making progress. It's slow, but I feel like they will eventually come around.
We met with Takisha on Saturday. She said that she wanted to come to church, so we arranged a ride for her. Unfortunately, she was sick yesterday so we had to cancel her ride, but she should be there next week.
I hope that all is well with all that are reading this. Know that I love you and that I pray for you every day. Everyone goes through trials but I know that Jesus Christ's gospel can help us with all of them!
Thank you all for your love and support,
Elder Holbrook
Hot and Humid and Eventful! 6/30/14
Dear Family and Friends,
Eventful would be the word that I would use to describe this week in Lawton. The weather has been stable. Pretty humid and hot. It makes you sweat but as long as you drink water you wont pass out or something...
Just saying.
On Saturday one of our recent converts, Jamie Richards, had her baby! She was born around 2pm, and her name is Raylee. We were able to visit the family on Sunday at the hospital on Fort Sill. It's an exciting time to be in Lawton.
We have had successes and interesting teaching opportunities, so I'll give you the breakdown:
Bro. Durborow, a less active member in our ward, has been struggling to come back to church on a regular basis since his wife has passed away last year. He has received a lot of hardships recently, too. He is overcoming a viral infection that nearly killed him, so he is in recovery mode. We stopped by on Monday and had a short lesson with him. We talked a bit about his wife and also about his daughter who is in the custody of the state. We discussed why Heavenly Father sees fit that we receive trials. We encouraged him to keep on pushing for him and we reassured that we are there for him.
Nathan Smith is another less active member, struggling with his divorce situation. He needed some extra love and support so we went to see him yesterday (Sunday). I have hope for him but he needs to make some changes in his life.
We have had some short meetings with John Stenman. We haven't had the opportunity to make progress with him because of his busy schedule with his church and work, but we're going to see him this Tuesday.
Beau and Monica made it to church on Sunday, which was awesome. They had to leave immediately after sacrament meeting because of work, but I am glad that they came. They always have a positive experience and they talk about talks in sacrament meeting when we come over.
We haven't been able to meet with Takisha, Hannah, Nick, Pam, or Tommy this past week. It's killing us because we want to meet with them but it's not working out. They are still interested, especially Nick.
Jay is still studying. He is making an effort to change himself, which is great. Patricia, however, is still a bit resistant to what is being taught. Jay isn't going to get baptized without her, so we are trying to put Patricia as the main focus when we visit.
It's been a busy week. The Lord has provided and I am blessed to be able to have been here this week. I am thankful for my mission. It has helped me develop more than anything I have experienced in this life. I have been able to see miracles happen and I have felt my testimony grow stronger. I know that Jesus Christ lives. I know that this church is the true living church on this earth. I know that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God, and because of this we now enjoy the blessings of modern day prophets and apostles. I know that the keys of the priesthood are restored.
I love you all and I am thankful for the support that you have given me,
Elder Holbrook
Eventful would be the word that I would use to describe this week in Lawton. The weather has been stable. Pretty humid and hot. It makes you sweat but as long as you drink water you wont pass out or something...
Just saying.
On Saturday one of our recent converts, Jamie Richards, had her baby! She was born around 2pm, and her name is Raylee. We were able to visit the family on Sunday at the hospital on Fort Sill. It's an exciting time to be in Lawton.
We have had successes and interesting teaching opportunities, so I'll give you the breakdown:
Bro. Durborow, a less active member in our ward, has been struggling to come back to church on a regular basis since his wife has passed away last year. He has received a lot of hardships recently, too. He is overcoming a viral infection that nearly killed him, so he is in recovery mode. We stopped by on Monday and had a short lesson with him. We talked a bit about his wife and also about his daughter who is in the custody of the state. We discussed why Heavenly Father sees fit that we receive trials. We encouraged him to keep on pushing for him and we reassured that we are there for him.
Nathan Smith is another less active member, struggling with his divorce situation. He needed some extra love and support so we went to see him yesterday (Sunday). I have hope for him but he needs to make some changes in his life.
We have had some short meetings with John Stenman. We haven't had the opportunity to make progress with him because of his busy schedule with his church and work, but we're going to see him this Tuesday.
Beau and Monica made it to church on Sunday, which was awesome. They had to leave immediately after sacrament meeting because of work, but I am glad that they came. They always have a positive experience and they talk about talks in sacrament meeting when we come over.
We haven't been able to meet with Takisha, Hannah, Nick, Pam, or Tommy this past week. It's killing us because we want to meet with them but it's not working out. They are still interested, especially Nick.
Jay is still studying. He is making an effort to change himself, which is great. Patricia, however, is still a bit resistant to what is being taught. Jay isn't going to get baptized without her, so we are trying to put Patricia as the main focus when we visit.
It's been a busy week. The Lord has provided and I am blessed to be able to have been here this week. I am thankful for my mission. It has helped me develop more than anything I have experienced in this life. I have been able to see miracles happen and I have felt my testimony grow stronger. I know that Jesus Christ lives. I know that this church is the true living church on this earth. I know that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God, and because of this we now enjoy the blessings of modern day prophets and apostles. I know that the keys of the priesthood are restored.
I love you all and I am thankful for the support that you have given me,
Elder Holbrook
Monday, June 23, 2014
Pedal to the metal! 6/23/14
Dear Family and Friends,
Well, it's the end of the first week in the transfer! Our zone has made a goal to have 50 member present lessons with investigators every week of the transfer. This means that we have to stretch ourselves, but I know that we can do it with the Lord's help. We got to 42 last night, so we are very close to achieving our goal as a zone. Out here in Oklahoma you can see the work of salvation hastening as we push forward. It is an exciting time to be a missionary.
On Tuesday we were able to have a Zone Conference here in Lawton. President Walkenhorst gave a great training on working with members and accelerating the work. We talked a lot about working with Ward Council and our responsibilities to help our Bishops out with updating the ward with what is going on with the less active members of the church.
Saturday was probably our busiest day of the week. We had four great lessons with some new investigators, all with a member with us. That rarely can happen for us because of the schedule of our investigators and the member's busy lives, but it all worked out.
Update on the investigators we are teaching:
John Stenman is the father of a recent convert that was baptized around December. He is originally from North Carolina. He moved down to Lawton to stay with his daughter because of the medical programs in Oklahoma. He is a devout christian who has a testimony of Jesus Christ. When we began to teach him at first, he was hesitant because he had heard a lot of negative things about the church. We addressed all of his concerns and questions, and he is a lot more interested in the church and its history. We are working towards getting a baptismal date with him, we are going to try to get one this week.
Takisha is a investigator that we have had for a long time but I have never taught before. We dropped her once before, but we picked her back up after we were able to stop by her house and set up a solid appointment. We were able to set up a baptismal date for July 19th, so we are excited for her.
Hannah was an investigator that was taught previously by some missionaries out of the state. She contacted us initially because she wanted to return a Book of Mormon and some pamphlets to us. She didn't feel like it would be right to throw them away. Funny enough, we began to teach her again and she is progressing. She is making an effort to change for her children.
I believe I have already talked a bit about Tommy, but for this update's sake I'll just go over him again anyways. Tommy is an Army vet who went to Iraq for a deployment or two, saw some things, and came back. He is currently married, but he feels like his marriage isn't working out for him. He struggles a lot with his PTSD. He likes us coming over because it makes him feel better about his life. He has just begun to read the Book of Mormon and is praying often. He is making large steps in the right direction. We are planning on setting a baptismal date with him this week.
Jay and Patricia Vickers are very slowly progressing. Jay knows that what we have taught him is the truth, but he is afraid to act on his faith because his wife doesn't want to convert to another church. It's a bit frustrating because we had made so much progress so quickly with him, but we don't want to upset his family and his marriage. In a sense, he's in the Lord's hands now.
Beau and Monica have had their baptismal date dropped. They are still planning on being baptized, but they haven't gotten married yet and Beau still has some overcoming to do with his smoking addiction. They have made progress, it's just slow. I am sure that they will come around eventually.
We haven't been able to meet with Pam this week. She has been out of town.
Nick has also been out of town, but he will be coming back on the 26th. We are going to get with him this week to catch up on how he's doing and see if we can't get a lesson or two in with him.
I'm excited for this next week, we're going to see some awesome miracles in our area and our zone. The work is hastening, the pedal is to the metal and it's going to be kept there. I am grateful to be a missionary in today's age and that I have been given the opportunity to work hard and shoulder to shoulder with the many great missionaries of the Oklahoma, Oklahoma City mission. I know that this church, this gospel of Jesus Christ, is true. I know that the scriptures are true and that they give us our daily bread. Most importantly, I know that Jesus Christ lives, and that he is my savior and redeemer from my sins.
Thank you all for your support,
Elder Holbrook
Well, it's the end of the first week in the transfer! Our zone has made a goal to have 50 member present lessons with investigators every week of the transfer. This means that we have to stretch ourselves, but I know that we can do it with the Lord's help. We got to 42 last night, so we are very close to achieving our goal as a zone. Out here in Oklahoma you can see the work of salvation hastening as we push forward. It is an exciting time to be a missionary.
On Tuesday we were able to have a Zone Conference here in Lawton. President Walkenhorst gave a great training on working with members and accelerating the work. We talked a lot about working with Ward Council and our responsibilities to help our Bishops out with updating the ward with what is going on with the less active members of the church.
Saturday was probably our busiest day of the week. We had four great lessons with some new investigators, all with a member with us. That rarely can happen for us because of the schedule of our investigators and the member's busy lives, but it all worked out.
Update on the investigators we are teaching:
John Stenman is the father of a recent convert that was baptized around December. He is originally from North Carolina. He moved down to Lawton to stay with his daughter because of the medical programs in Oklahoma. He is a devout christian who has a testimony of Jesus Christ. When we began to teach him at first, he was hesitant because he had heard a lot of negative things about the church. We addressed all of his concerns and questions, and he is a lot more interested in the church and its history. We are working towards getting a baptismal date with him, we are going to try to get one this week.
Takisha is a investigator that we have had for a long time but I have never taught before. We dropped her once before, but we picked her back up after we were able to stop by her house and set up a solid appointment. We were able to set up a baptismal date for July 19th, so we are excited for her.
Hannah was an investigator that was taught previously by some missionaries out of the state. She contacted us initially because she wanted to return a Book of Mormon and some pamphlets to us. She didn't feel like it would be right to throw them away. Funny enough, we began to teach her again and she is progressing. She is making an effort to change for her children.
I believe I have already talked a bit about Tommy, but for this update's sake I'll just go over him again anyways. Tommy is an Army vet who went to Iraq for a deployment or two, saw some things, and came back. He is currently married, but he feels like his marriage isn't working out for him. He struggles a lot with his PTSD. He likes us coming over because it makes him feel better about his life. He has just begun to read the Book of Mormon and is praying often. He is making large steps in the right direction. We are planning on setting a baptismal date with him this week.
Jay and Patricia Vickers are very slowly progressing. Jay knows that what we have taught him is the truth, but he is afraid to act on his faith because his wife doesn't want to convert to another church. It's a bit frustrating because we had made so much progress so quickly with him, but we don't want to upset his family and his marriage. In a sense, he's in the Lord's hands now.
Beau and Monica have had their baptismal date dropped. They are still planning on being baptized, but they haven't gotten married yet and Beau still has some overcoming to do with his smoking addiction. They have made progress, it's just slow. I am sure that they will come around eventually.
We haven't been able to meet with Pam this week. She has been out of town.
Nick has also been out of town, but he will be coming back on the 26th. We are going to get with him this week to catch up on how he's doing and see if we can't get a lesson or two in with him.
I'm excited for this next week, we're going to see some awesome miracles in our area and our zone. The work is hastening, the pedal is to the metal and it's going to be kept there. I am grateful to be a missionary in today's age and that I have been given the opportunity to work hard and shoulder to shoulder with the many great missionaries of the Oklahoma, Oklahoma City mission. I know that this church, this gospel of Jesus Christ, is true. I know that the scriptures are true and that they give us our daily bread. Most importantly, I know that Jesus Christ lives, and that he is my savior and redeemer from my sins.
Thank you all for your support,
Elder Holbrook
Service Happy Father's Day! 6/16/14
Hey Family and Friends,
We've had a good week in Lawton! We had the opportunity to do a lot of service for ward members, which was great. I was able to plant a garden in an elderly couples yard, which was great because I hadn't done that for a long time. I don't have a green thumb by any means, but there is something about growing food that is fun and fulfilling.
On Sunday, Elder Chavez and I did some math and we figured out that we have 7-8 hours of church on a weekly basis, depending on the meetings that we have that day. This area can get a little crazy sometimes. I like church.
An update on our current investigators:
Nick is out of town till the 26th due to his work. He said that he would be in Kansas providing security for a general, but we haven't forgotten about him. We send him some reminder texts about praying and reading on a daily basis.
Jay and Patricia are on the backburner for now. Jay continues to study himself but Patricia is dragging behind. We're wanting to focus more on Patricia and helping her understanding of the gospel increase.
Beau and Monica are working towards marriage. Beau is still struggling with his smoking addiction, but he has been making progress towards quitting. Their baptismal date will have to be dropped because they need to attend church three weeks in a row, but we will most likely get a new date this week.
Pam is slowly progressing. She has begun to say her prayers, which is a huge step. We're going to teach her the importance of the scriptures and why we should study them. We should also be seeing her at church this Sunday.
Happy Father's Day to all of the fathers and future fathers out there! Thank you for all that you have done for your families in providing and sacrificing for them! I am excited to have a family one day.
I have been gaining a better understanding of Jesus Christ's atonement that he has offered us. We need to make sure that we are doing all that we can to apply it to our lives. As we continue forward in faith, we will see how this Gospel blesses our lives and others in this dispensation.
Love ya all,
Elder Holbrook
We've had a good week in Lawton! We had the opportunity to do a lot of service for ward members, which was great. I was able to plant a garden in an elderly couples yard, which was great because I hadn't done that for a long time. I don't have a green thumb by any means, but there is something about growing food that is fun and fulfilling.
On Sunday, Elder Chavez and I did some math and we figured out that we have 7-8 hours of church on a weekly basis, depending on the meetings that we have that day. This area can get a little crazy sometimes. I like church.
An update on our current investigators:
Nick is out of town till the 26th due to his work. He said that he would be in Kansas providing security for a general, but we haven't forgotten about him. We send him some reminder texts about praying and reading on a daily basis.
Jay and Patricia are on the backburner for now. Jay continues to study himself but Patricia is dragging behind. We're wanting to focus more on Patricia and helping her understanding of the gospel increase.
Beau and Monica are working towards marriage. Beau is still struggling with his smoking addiction, but he has been making progress towards quitting. Their baptismal date will have to be dropped because they need to attend church three weeks in a row, but we will most likely get a new date this week.
Pam is slowly progressing. She has begun to say her prayers, which is a huge step. We're going to teach her the importance of the scriptures and why we should study them. We should also be seeing her at church this Sunday.
Happy Father's Day to all of the fathers and future fathers out there! Thank you for all that you have done for your families in providing and sacrificing for them! I am excited to have a family one day.
I have been gaining a better understanding of Jesus Christ's atonement that he has offered us. We need to make sure that we are doing all that we can to apply it to our lives. As we continue forward in faith, we will see how this Gospel blesses our lives and others in this dispensation.
Love ya all,
Elder Holbrook
Miracle In Lawton! 6/9/14
Hey Family and Friends,
Whew! Elder Chavez and I have been able to work hard in this heat this week! We had transfer calls last night, and basically nobody in our district is going anywhere. Not exactly the most exciting transfers, but we have a really good district right now, so I'm excited to spend another transfer with everyone. The last couple of nights have been stormy, but we haven't had anything too bad weather wise, which is good.
At the Stake Conference I talked about last week we had a miracle that had happened that we didn't recognize at the time. There was a young soldier by the name of Nick who stopped in at church on a whim. He has a member friend who told him a bit about the church, and that was enough to peak his interest. He sat in on the Sunday meeting, and then approached a member asking how he could join the church. The member explained that he would have to meet with the missionaries, and he promptly got us and we began to talk with Nick. He had a lot of questions, especially about life after death, so we went right into a discussion of the Plan of Salvation. We set a baptismal date for the 21st of this month, which was pretty awesome. So all throughout this week we met with him and taught him about the Restoration as well as addressing the many questions that he has about the Gospel. Yesterday (this last Sunday) he asked a question about missions and if he would be able to serve one. We said that he would be eligible to serve, even with his current military circumstances, if he chose to become a member and to continue making and keeping further covenants. He seemed surprised at this, and you could tell there was a tinge of excitement in his tone as he said "Really?". He has a very busy schedule due to his job, but we have been able to get appointments with him and he has been fulfilling commitments, so I can say that he is interested in the Church.
We got Jay's baptismal date set again after we had a really good meeting with them. But, unfortunately, it was dropped again when he talked to his wife about it. She is afraid of him joining the church because she fears that it is going to tear their family apart. We're working with them both right now. She needs to come to church and pray about the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith.
I hope all is well with everyone. Know that I pray for you all daily. I know that as we apply the atonement to our lives, we will be able to progress and overcome ourselves. I'm thankful for the blessings that God has given me.
Love you all,
Elder Holbrook
Whew! Elder Chavez and I have been able to work hard in this heat this week! We had transfer calls last night, and basically nobody in our district is going anywhere. Not exactly the most exciting transfers, but we have a really good district right now, so I'm excited to spend another transfer with everyone. The last couple of nights have been stormy, but we haven't had anything too bad weather wise, which is good.
At the Stake Conference I talked about last week we had a miracle that had happened that we didn't recognize at the time. There was a young soldier by the name of Nick who stopped in at church on a whim. He has a member friend who told him a bit about the church, and that was enough to peak his interest. He sat in on the Sunday meeting, and then approached a member asking how he could join the church. The member explained that he would have to meet with the missionaries, and he promptly got us and we began to talk with Nick. He had a lot of questions, especially about life after death, so we went right into a discussion of the Plan of Salvation. We set a baptismal date for the 21st of this month, which was pretty awesome. So all throughout this week we met with him and taught him about the Restoration as well as addressing the many questions that he has about the Gospel. Yesterday (this last Sunday) he asked a question about missions and if he would be able to serve one. We said that he would be eligible to serve, even with his current military circumstances, if he chose to become a member and to continue making and keeping further covenants. He seemed surprised at this, and you could tell there was a tinge of excitement in his tone as he said "Really?". He has a very busy schedule due to his job, but we have been able to get appointments with him and he has been fulfilling commitments, so I can say that he is interested in the Church.
We got Jay's baptismal date set again after we had a really good meeting with them. But, unfortunately, it was dropped again when he talked to his wife about it. She is afraid of him joining the church because she fears that it is going to tear their family apart. We're working with them both right now. She needs to come to church and pray about the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith.
I hope all is well with everyone. Know that I pray for you all daily. I know that as we apply the atonement to our lives, we will be able to progress and overcome ourselves. I'm thankful for the blessings that God has given me.
Love you all,
Elder Holbrook
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)