Torres' Zion

Going Home

2011-06-23T17:15:00.009-06:00

As of next Monday evening (June 27th) President Edward Watts will be the priesthood leader of the mission with the keys given him by an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ. President and I wish to thank you for your support. We have felt the power of your prayers. We have a saying between the two of us. It is...."Every day a miracle." We literally saw, at least one miracle each day. Some days they were small signs, tender mercies of a loving God. Other days they were life saving miracles of intervention keeping our missionaries safe, diverting a tragedy or direct intervention to someone select and pure of heart really to receive and make covenants with God. All in the name of the Messiah, his life, his work, his mercy, his love.

17 New Missionaries

2011-06-11T21:58:00.005-06:00

We welcomed 17 new missionaries, they with their trainers totaled 34 missionaries for our orientation and luncheon at the mission home. They are Elders Asdel, Colindres (Alexis), Colindres, (Edwin), Gunnel, Hansing, Horne, Huehis, Lloyd, Turcios, Umaña, Way and Sisters Avila, Fernandez, Garambel, Lainez, Romero, and Solis. Welcome to our world!

We sent home our last Group

2011-06-11T21:27:00.004-06:00

It is with bitter sweet joy that we sad good bye to our largest group of missionaries completing their missions. 27 wonderful missionaries finished their call to serve. They are Elders Legua, Turek, Bruneel, Snell, Clark, Bates, Goodwin, Gonzalez (Adrian), Williams (Benjamin), DeGraw, Youngberg, Smith (Michael), Jensen (Derek), Schone, Bowman, Lara, Larsen, Vasquez (Luis) our Assistant. Our Sisters going home were Sister Salazar, Vasquez (Carla), Rodas, Caceres, Gonzalez, Castillo, Trost, and Cajti.

District Conference in Sacsuha

2011-06-11T18:53:00.006-06:00

We had our last District Conference in Sacsuha , Polochic, last May 29th. It is always a joy to meet with the faithful Saints there who travel by any means necessary to get to Conference, have their Temple recommends renewed and visit with the surrounding Saints in the Area.

Twice Victory for Las Victorias Zone

2011-06-11T18:16:00.010-06:00

Las Victorias means victories. This is what has happened to the Zone with this name. They baptised twice in a row their goal and then some. The stake goal was to baptise 12 people a month and they baptized 16 two months in a row. To celebrate, the Stake Presidency gave the missionaries a catered luncheon to show their appreciation. Congratulations Elders Alonzo, Luke, Pierce,Chirinos, Dold, Escalante, Taco, Welch, Navas, and our wonderful nurses Sister Westenskow and Neely. The Vicotry is for our Savior and King.

Mission Choir

2011-05-01T23:38:00.002-06:00

We had the opportunity of presenting two musical numbers Saturday April 30th at a Medical tour where Medical professionals from the church come to help new members who are contemplating serving a mission fill out their medical portion of their application process. Our missionaries sang two numbers, a missionary medley arranged by Janice Kapp Perry and Ye Elders of Israel from the hymn book. It was wonderful and we received many accolades from the listeners.

17 New missionaries

2011-05-01T23:26:00.004-06:00

Our wonderful new missionaries include: Elders Rix, Cheney, Dold, Ryan Anderson, Dallin Smith, David White (our new tallest Elder in the mission) , Llewelyn, Miller, LaPray, Willardson, Henriquez, Alvarez, Rodriguez, Moran, Delgado and Sisters Neeley (our new nurse) and Washburn. Welcome.

Last Easter in the mission field

2011-04-30T23:44:00.003-06:00

On April 28th we sent home Elders, Colton White, Batty, Letner, Calero, Cangalaya,Crespin, Olinto Garcia, Primo, Drach, Fusi, Gochis, Hess as well as Sisters Mitchell and Dieguez.

Semana Santa - Easter Missionary work

2011-04-30T23:33:00.003-06:00

In Guatemala the week previous to Easter is known as Semana Santa. It is when families rest from working and spend time together viewing the processions or going to bathe in the rivers or ocean.

In San Jeronimo Elder Mays and Elder Sorensen went the extra mile to locate families to teach during this period. They took pictures of families in the park as they were out walking and then made arrangements to return to give them the photo and offer to teach them the gospel. Great job Elders!

A pre-Easter Visit in Sayaxche

2011-04-28T21:05:00.004-06:00

Sayaxche is a small branch just off the shores of the Passion River. One must travel on a ferry boat to cross the river to visit the branch. The District Presidency as well as the Mission President are focused on helping the small branch grow. We recently all went to show our love and support for this small but faithful group of saints. We also did house inspections and the Elders "passed" with flying colors. Thank you Moms for teaching them.

Easter Celebration Zone Conference

2011-04-28T20:53:00.005-06:00

As always our focus in Zone Conference is "Preach my Gospel" but this month we highlighted the Savior's atonement by requesting a memorized Scripture, given during interviews, on the prophecies or events of the Savior's sacrifice. Of course each missionary was "rewarded" with an Easter Egg and a special book mark made by Sister Batty for their efforts. (see side bar for complete collection of photos from conference)

Presidents Seminar

2011-04-28T20:31:00.005-06:00

We were so very blessed to have a seminar with our Area Presidency as well as a special visit from Elder Richard Hinckly from the missionary committee. We spent 3 days (April 7-9)reviewing our focus to baptise as many families as possible to prepare the world to receive the return of our Savior Jesus Christ to the earth.

New Arrivals with Silblings

2011-03-17T19:31:00.004-06:00

We received 20 new arrivals with our Changes this week. We also received two siblings of two of our Sister Missionaries. They will keep their missions "all in the family". Sister Calderon received her brother Elder Calderon and Sister Cajti was happy to receive her brother Elder Cajti. It just so happens that these two Sisters are also trainers which is why they were able to see their brothers. Welcome Elders Anderson, Borjas, Cajti, Calderon, Cantillo, Eskelsen, Proctor, Sorensen, Trunick, Welch, and Sisters Zuñiga,Portillo, Molina,Cabrera, Cruz, Rodriquez, and Nuñez

Missionaries returning Home

2011-03-17T18:52:00.003-06:00

We said good bye to 7 of our missionaries. Sisters Barillas, Varela, Echeverria, and Elders Burden, Vargas, Vasquez, Antony. Also we said good-bye to a "mini" Missionary Elder Real. Thank you for your faithful service.

Sister Wixom and Sister Thompson Visit Guatemala

2011-03-10T22:18:00.005-06:00

We are so fortunate to have had a visit of Sister Wixom of the Primary Presidency as well as Sister Thompson from the Relief Society. We even had a celebration of the Relief Societies' 169th birthday. They were so impressed with our wonderful and faithful members as well as our beautiful children.

4 Missionaries, two stories

2011-03-06T17:03:00.005-06:00

We have missionaries from many parts of the world. When two find they come from the same country, this immediately brings them great joy. Such was the case when our two Canadians saw each other for the first time during training. Elder Mark Jensen from Delburne, and Elder Brett Payne from Balzac, Canada.

We are blessed to have two wonderful nurses who do their best to keep a watchful eye and help our missionaries stay healthy. Sister Mitchell and Sister Westenskow.

March Zone Leader Council

2011-03-02T22:33:00.003-06:00

We had our Council meeting early in the month, March 2nd. The Leaders were given instructions on our baptizing goals, training lessons, illness prevention and other items to help them be great leaders to their companions. Afterwards they enjoyed a luncheon at the mission home.

New President for the Mission has been called

2011-02-19T12:08:00.006-06:00

Edward Dale Watts, 60, and Lorie Porter Watts, four children, North Logan 15th Ward, North Logan Utah Stake. Brother Watts serves on a Hispanic council for the Utah North Area and is a former stake president, high councilor, bishop, bishopric counselor, elders quorum president and missionary in the North Argentine Mission. President, Andigen, LC. Born in Hollywood, Calif., to Alfred Dale Watts and Ella Lue Hargrave Wood.

Sister Watts serves as a ward Relief Society teacher and is a former counselor and president in the institute women's association, stake Young Woman President, stake Primary president, ward Young Women and Primary president, Primary music leader. Born in Provo, Utah, to Lloyed Aldin Porter and Shirley Faye Palmer Porter.

Their anticipated arrival date in the Mission field will be on or about July 1st, 2011.

Change of Mission President this coming July

2011-02-16T10:03:00.002-06:00

We must lay on the altar and sacrifice whatever is required by the Lord. We begin by offering a "broken heart and a contrite spirit." We follow this by giving our best effort in our assigned fields of labor and callings. We learn our duty and execute it fully. Finally we consecrate our time, talents, and means as called upon by our file leaders and as prompted by the whisperings of the Spirit. In the Church, we can give expression to every ability, every righteous desire, every thoughtful impulse...and in the end, we learn it was no sacrifice at all. ---Spencer W. Kimball

Next week we will announce the name of the new President.

It's all in the Name

2011-02-16T09:46:00.003-06:00

The gospel has had such an impact on Guatemala that it is not uncommon to find people who bare the first name of "Elder". On a recent visit to a resturant, we found our waiter to be one of the "Elders." He told us that his son was also an "Elder" but that they call him "Eldersito."

Be Ye "clean" who bare the vessels of the Lord

2011-02-16T09:33:00.003-06:00

When housing inspections are done we sometimes are met with wonderful surprises. The Office Elders did such an amazing job of their apartment, I just had to share. Great job Elders your mamas would be proud!

Chicken Soup for the Soul

2011-02-16T08:34:00.003-06:00

Our wonderful members from the District of Senahu came to attend the temple. Many to receive their endowments and be sealed for eternity with their families. As is the custom to celebrate with their kac' ik or caldo, which is a Mayan soup traditionally made with turkey and served with corn tamales. Not accustomed to refrigeration, they brought their "chickens" to cook-up fresh soup in the temple housing provided kitchens. Felicidades

Zone Conference with Elder Martino

2011-02-16T00:04:00.003-06:00

Elder Martino and his wife did a tour of the mission and we were greatly blessed by his visit. We started in Peten where Elder Martino also did a fireside for the members of the San Benito District. After Zone Conference in Peten we traveled to Coban and then to the capital to finish with a multi-zone conference. A bus was rented to facilitate the transportation for the missionaries. (see side bar for photos)

Ground Hog Day....Cambios

2011-02-02T21:30:00.006-06:00

Ground Hog day was anything but the same for us here in the mission. We received new missionaries from the CCM as well as Elder Trunick who came directly from the Provo MTC on the accelerated Spanish program. They are EldersCruz, Pierce, Cherrington, Aviles, Asencio, Taco, Real, Rodriquez, Sister Abrego, and Sister Hernandez.

They had Taco Salads, fresh fruit, lemonade and chocolate cake luncheon with Trainers at the Mission home as well as an all day training before going into their assigned areas. Bienvenidos Misioneros!

Frist to leave in 2011

2011-02-02T21:19:00.003-06:00

We said goodbye to three of our faithful missionaries. Elder Esturain, Elder Zuniga, and Sister Pineda. Li Qaawa'Chiosob'teslinq aawe

Come listen to a prophets' voice

2011-01-25T22:12:00.007-06:00

We were so very blessed to have Elder Ballard come to address us in Guatemala. Those that were close to the capital came by bus and those outside the capital area had the meeting transmitted via closed circuit.

Elder Ballard spoke about putting forth the effort to study and prepare to better teach the gospel. "You have to work hard to become (a) master Gospel teacher. It doesn't just happen. You must never lose sight as to how precious God's children are." The focus was on Finding, Teaching and Baptizing. "You've been sent out to baptize!"

President Torres conducted the meeting where we had a choir of 20 missionaries sing a musical number, a medley of "I'll go where you want me to go, Called to serve, and Armies of Helaman." sung in English, Spanish and Ke'chi.

The missionaries left visibly thrilled to have been in the presence of an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ. (see right for slide show)

Christmas in Guatemala

2011-01-16T22:54:00.004-06:00

I love the light displays of Guatemala City. They remind me of the type that used to be popular in the States when I was a girl. They also have nativities all over the place, in commercial stores, public squares, parks, just every where...even gas stations. They also have little stands in the parks that sell mangers, pine needles, fruit, fireworks, lights, decorations, anything you can think of to set up your very own nativity.

The pine needles are sold so you can place them on the floor. When your Christmas guest arrive, they step on the needles that give off a wonderful aroma of pine. This is especially wonderful if you have a dirt floor. We tired this at the mission home and many told me that they would try this when they got home. It was a Christmas to remember.

Thanks to our many "Elves"

2011-01-04T16:22:00.004-06:00

Our missionary "sub for Santa" was a complete success! Not one missionary went without a gift! For some, it was their very 1st Christmas gift ever. Thank you for all the candy, scriptures, socks, pens, decorations, and other wonderful items that told the missionaries "they are not forgotten," but are loved and cherished. President and I went around the mission twice, once as planned and another time the day of the 25th to deliver some packages that arrived after the initial trip. It was so wonderful to see the wide smiles on the missionaries' faces when they got their packages. We hope your Christmas was just as wonderful as the one we all experienced here in this blessed land.

5 Days till Christmas

2011-01-04T16:14:00.004-06:00

With Only 5 days till Christmas, we received 5 new missionaries. They were Elder Travis Taylor, Elder Justin Allen, Elder Davy Joya, Elder Gerald Saenz, and Elder Oscar Centeno. This will be an unforgettable Christmas we are sure!

Brother and Sister McBride

2011-01-04T14:59:00.004-06:00

We lost our great missionaries who were "our anchor" in Peten. They watched over the missionaries, did house inspections, taught them how to clean a toilet, baked brownies, consoled those who were disheartened, got referrals, taught piano lessons, visited the sick and the lonely, guided the leadership, and we do not know how we will ever get along without them! Thank you Brother and Sister McBride for spending your "golden years" helping us try to "shine a little' brighter by your love and example. What a wonderful legacy you have left.

I'll be home for Christmas

2011-01-04T14:42:00.005-06:00

Two missionaries would truly be able to sing this song since they completed their missions just in time to share this Christmas with their families. One was our wonderful Assistant, Elder Kemish Castro as well as Elder Tzunux our Zone Leader from Senahu. Li Qaawa'Chi-osob'tesiinq aawe

District Conference in Senahu

2011-01-04T14:08:00.004-06:00

The semi annual District Conference highlighted the Senahu choir which has received so much acclaim of late that they have been invited to present a program this year in Coban. The truly amazing aspect about this is that in the past, this choir has always had pianist and directors who were full time missionaries. They now have local musicians as well as a director of the choir who is the daughter of the District President, Federico Caal. Seeing their Independence and the strides they are reaching is truly marvelous. Ch'ina Us!

Grateful for our New Missionaries

2010-11-11T20:28:00.002-06:00

Thanksgiving is just around the corner and we are so grateful for our wonderful new missionaries. Elders Saavedra, Flores, Alvarado, Velasquez, Lopez, Richins, Spilker, Payne, Hopkins and Sister Douglas. After training they had an enchilada lunch. Yumm!

Cheeril eerib'

2010-11-11T20:08:00.006-06:00

We sent home some of our very finest missionaries. Almost all of them spoke Ke'chi. Three had been Assistants to the President. But we are comforted knowing they will be with their families for the holidays. Cheeril eerib' Hermana Allen, Elders Hansen, Chesley, Wixom, España, Zepeda, & Solano,...china os le corbat. Cuancat salin chool.

Christmas

2010-11-02T12:11:00.007-06:00

Dear Parents of our missionaries,

With the approch of Christmas time, I thought I'd offer some personal views. The sooner you send the packages, the more asured you can be that your missionary will have them for the big day.

With the advent of the new Conference directives, we are not scheduled to have Zone Conferences until January. However President and I feel that is too long to go without seeing our missionaries and we needed to do something special for them for Christmas. So we are planning a special mini conference for each area so that we can share feelings we have for the special gift of our Savior's birth. On that day we will deliver packages that arrive to the Office and we are planning a special meal for all the missionaries.

Our schedule will be as follows:

Dec 6 -Peten Zone

Dec 7 Coban /Polochic Zones

Dec 8 Zones in Capital (Victorias, Molino, Alameda, Atlantico, Esperanza).

It has been our sad experience that very few of our Latino missionaries receive mail from home, let alone packages. If you would like to do something special to help your missionary's relationship with his/her Latino/a companion, a small package, we know, would be a marvelous gesture of love from you both. Suggestions could include, socks, shirts, ties, scriptures, bic pencils, treats (they LOVE American candy)

Our mailing address:

Mision Guatemala Ciudad Norte

Apartado Numero 951A

Guatemala Guatemala C.A.

Christmas calls , the following is from the missionary manual:

Take care that calls do not pull your thoughts away from your service or create a financial problem for your family. Keep them short (no longer than 30 or 40 min). p. 37

Day of the Dead

2010-11-01T22:07:00.004-06:00

On Nov 1 Guatemala celebrates their Day of the Dead which is a kind of Memorial Day when families go to the cemetery to remember their dead, clean and decorate the graves. They place food at the grave sites and visit, with a picnic as families. They also fly kites to send messages to their loved ones. Some of the kits are enormous and truly works of art. Colorful and beautiful was our memory of this celebration.

Oct 2010 Zone Conference

2010-11-01T21:53:00.005-06:00

We started our Zone conferences in the capital. Because of the Halloween festivities back home, we thought we’d sweetened the scripture memorization effort with some “trick or treat” candy. 4 candies for a scripture on the restoration or apostasy…..memorized, of course. (see slide show for complete fotos)

Stake Conference in Coban

2010-11-01T21:44:00.003-06:00

Stake conference in Coban was visited by Elder Don Clarke of the Seventy as well as Area Presidency with his wife. Also Elder Rafael Castro of the Area Seventy, the Temple president with his wife, President and Sister Mask. The building could not hold all the members so two sessions were held with a total attendance on Sunday of 1, 150. Our missionaries did their part by having 49 investigators in attendance. Please acknowledge your missionaries efforts if you have any serving in the Coban Zone. They did a great work. Hurrah for Israel!

New Chapel in Chulac

2010-10-29T22:14:00.007-06:00

We have a new chapel in Chulac with new building plans for Sanjunte and Senahu. The dedication of the Chulac buidling is still pending but the building was completed enough to allow us to hold the District conference there. Since no other buidling would have been large enough to hold the 513 people who attended. This chapel is also going to have a special housing unit for the missionaries.

Called to Serve

2010-10-02T19:17:00.006-06:00

We received our new force of missionaries. How grateful we are for them, their faith, their enthusiasm to do that which our Savior has asked, 'to bring to all the world the proclamation of the gospel."

Our new missionaries are: Elders Norton, Bishop, Rowan, Sakievich, Olsen, Wadsworth, Tolley, Underwood, Snow, Mitchell, Hogan, Nelson, Dilworth, Cruz, Busto, Centeno, Henriquez and Sister McKnight.

They attended the change meeting on Wed, Sept 29th and there met their new companions as well as the other missionaries who had changes. Welcome Elders and Hermana to the greatest mission in the world!

New Change Day

2010-10-02T18:30:00.005-06:00

Our Area Presidency moved our change day from Monday, Tuesday to Tuesday, Wednesday. Therefore our missionaries returning home now leave on Thursday and our Change day is on Wednesday. Our September change Day we said goodbye to Elders Winn, Karr, Peterson, Briggs, Dunkley, Empey, Pierce, Luke, Alvarado, Sacalxot, Garcia - Balmoris, Jimenez and Sister Duarte. We will miss you!

Helping missionaries become better teachers

2010-10-02T17:54:00.005-06:00

As of July we now have specialized training for the missionaries that encompasses a seminar for the Zone and District leaders, as well as those who are trainers along with their new trainees. This seminar last for 3-4 days and is designed to help the missionaries learn how to more effectively teach by the spirit and teach people, not lessons. These are held during the day and they practice what they have learned at night. President accompanies selected couples of missionaries in each location. These will be conducted every 2 months. We are in a period where we need to baptize more of the investigators that are found weekly. This directive addresses this need.

We now have Zone Conference once every quarter. Interviews will be held in conjunction with Zone Conferences. Because of the logistics of our mission, we have decided to go to the missionaries rather than have the missionaries come into the capital for this training. Therefore, we will be traveling more than previously.

Sept we conducted seminars in Peten, Coban, Polochic (Senahu) and the capital. The end result is well worth the endeavor, by helping our missionaries become better teachers so they can, find, teach, and baptize more of Heavenly Father's precious children. Thus is our purpose here in Guatemala. Thank you for your support.

Sept 15 Viva Guatemala

2010-10-02T17:27:00.007-06:00

Guatemala celebrates its Independence from Spain on September 15. They celebrate with parades, fireworks and processions. They dress their children in typical dress and the youth run marathons throughout the country carrying the torch of "freedom".

Choco Bananos for Conference

2010-08-29T22:20:00.003-06:00

In the La Esperanza Stake legend has it that a Mormon Missionary went to the little store across the street from the chapel and showed the owner how she could cover ripe bananas with melted chocolate, roll them in nuts and sell these to the members. The Mormon Choco Bananos were born! Much to the delight of the priesthood who love to eat these in between the adult session and priesthood sessions of Conference. "Buen provecho hermanos!" (see the entire conference photo slideshow to the right)

Fast with us

2010-08-22T22:41:00.004-06:00

On Sept 5th we will be having a mission fast. We will be praying and fasting in particular for a very special missionary, Elder Gray Johnson who had to return home due to illness. He is undergoing treatments to help him recover from his illness and hopefully return to help us gather the Lord's chosen people here in Guatemala. "Get well soon Elder, we will be waiting for your return. "

Welcome new missionaries

2010-08-22T22:18:00.007-06:00

On Aug 17th the new missionaries were picked up from the CCM and brought to the Mission Office to train as well as to the Mission Home to enjoy a lunch. They were transported by the "Magic Bus" back to their temporary housing until the next day where they would meet their new companions. Welcome to the greatest mission in the world, Elders Meza, Lemus, Navas, Lainez, Tambriz, Garay, Kjar, Gonzalez, Chavarria, as well as Sisters Westenskow, Perdido and Datwyler!

Well done...

2010-08-22T22:03:00.004-06:00

As with each change meeting, we send our experienced missionaries home when they have completed their assignment. This change period we say good bye to Elders Juan Flores, Carlos Flores, Greenwood, Diego Hernandez, Fabian, Sisters, Ayala, Samol, and Lebeau. Earlier we said goodbye to Elder Javier Lopez who returned to Mexico to study.

Hermana Nava

2010-08-22T20:04:00.006-06:00

Sister Nava from Mexico is a realatively new missionary in our mission. She is unique because she comes from an extremly faithful family who currently have 7 missionaries serving in the field. She has Sisters in Chile, Osorio, Santiago, Argentina Bahia Blanca, Rosario, Costa Rica, Honduras, Comayaguela, and of course our Sister Nava is serving in El Estor, Polochic Zone.

This is in direct fulfillment of a prophecy given by Spencer W. Kimball in 1946 who said;

"When I was in Mexico in 1946 I was dreaming for the people of Mexico. I had a dream of your progress and developement...this is precisely what I dreamed: I think I see stakes by the hundreds in Mexico, missionaries by the thousands. "(Area Conference Address, Mexico City, Mexico, Feb 17, 1977)

We are Pioneers

2010-08-09T20:45:00.004-06:00

We celebrated along with other missionaries in other zones our pioneer heritage on July 26th. We started with a devotional and had some missionaries share stories of their ansestors who were among the early saints. Then we had some missionaries tell about how they were pioneers because they were the first in their families to join the church. We had musical numbers and showed a video clip about the young men who saved the Willie-Martin saints from crossing the Sweet water River's frozen waters, at the cost of their own health and well being. We made the correlation on how they are also doing a magnificent work in placing their own desires aside to serve and "save' their brethren.

Afterwards they changed into their P-Day cloths, played outdoor games , had hamburgers, chips, watermelon and fruit drinks!

We are all.....Pioneers

That every member may have... the Word of God

2010-08-08T23:37:00.006-06:00

In Guatemala, the church has reduced the price of a subscription to the Liahona (Spanish language Ensign). It has made a great impact. The very poor still must make a great sacrifice to buy the subscription. 16 Quetzales, about the amount for one day's meals.

We found a little girl in Teleman who, her parents said, purchased her very own subscription. How proud she was to have this picture taken.

Life blood of the mission, new missionaries!

2010-07-07T07:41:00.005-06:00

We received new missionaries on July 6th from the MTC here in Guatemala. We welcomed Elders Thacker, Zelaya, Beltrán, Barrientos, Ixcoy, Majano and Sister Nava with a training at the mission office, an introduction to their new companions and a luncheon at the mission home.

An interesting note: Sister Nava is from Mexico City and comes from a family of 9. She has 4 missionaries from her immediate family who are serving full time missions in different countries of Latin America.

Worn-out shirts and shoes, but happy hearts

2010-07-07T07:17:00.006-06:00

It is always difficult to send our missionaries home after having learned to love them for their faith and noble hearts. This change we sent home Elder Gelinas and Elder Guzman, both of whom were Assistants to the President. They as well as Elders Brady, Geronimo, Grant, Richardson,Aranda, Balux, Tambriz, Medrano and Sister Marilyn Castro will be greatly missed.

Their missionary cloths have seen great use, now they look forward to a new chapter in their lives. God be with you.

Our purpose

2010-07-04T19:23:00.008-06:00

"Invite others to come unto Christ by helping them receive the restored gospel through faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement, repentance, baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end. "

We recite this each time we meet as missionaries. When we witness each week faithful people here in Guatemala take upon themselves the covenants with God, we know our purpose is fulfilled.

The photos are of the Juarez Family, baptized this last weekend in Sayaxche. This family was found by our supportive and vital Missionary couple, Elder and Sister McBride who are an anchor of stability to our Mission up North in Peten. The Elders in Sayaxche are also doing a great job building up the little branch there by the Passion River.

"We do not preach and teach in order to bring people into the Church' or to increase the membership of the Church. We do not preach and teach just to persuade people to live better lives...We invite all to come unto Christ by repentance and baptism and confirmation in order to open the doors of the celestial kingdom to the sons and daughters of God. No one else can do this" --Elder Dallin H. Oaks

Words of Kindness

2010-06-30T16:23:00.011-06:00

"When a man is borne down with trouble, when he is perplexed with care and difficulty, if he can meet a smile instead of an argument or a murmur---if he can meet with mildness, it will calm down his soul and soothe his feelings; when the mind is going to despair, it needs a solace of affection and kindness." ( Joseph Smith -History of the Church 4:606-607).

Thank you Dear Parents for your many words of Kindness and support. President and I will continue to try our very best to serve you, your children and our brethren here in Guatemala. It is clear that the blog is part of that effort, so it will continue to give you glimpses of our efforts here in this special part of God's vineyard.

If you ever have any worries or questions about any of the pictures, please contact us directly. We will endeavor to answer any concerns.

June 2010 Zone Conference

2010-06-18T23:07:00.004-06:00

We started in Peten taking our Mission Doctor with us to visit the missionaries and give them advice on how to stay healthy. We then returned to the capital, had two Zone Conferences there and set out again to Senahu and then Coban being the last Zone Conference. We also attended the Ward Conferece in El Estor. They had an attendance of 160 people at Sacrament Meeting. 60 of them children....all future missionaries...of course! See side bar slide show for complete collection of photos.

The Standard of Truth

2010-06-18T22:53:00.003-06:00

The "revised" Standard of Truth for the Guatemala North Mission reads: The Standard of Truth has been erected; no volcano eruption, tropical storm, sink holes, flooding, crop failures or other unrest can stop the work from progressing; persecutions may rage, mobs may combine, thieves may assemble, calamity may defame, but the truth of God will go forth boldly, nobly, and independant till it has penetrated every aldea (town) visited every corner and sounded in every Guatemalans' ear, till the purposes of God in Guatemala be accomplished, and the great Jehovah shall say...the work is done. ---Joseph Smith 1842

Missionaries provide service

2010-06-11T16:16:00.002-06:00

With the aftermath of the Pacaya eruptions, and tropical storm Agatha, missionaries have found many opportunitites to help with the clean-up as well as bag supplies of basic necessities which were sent by the church to help victums who lost their homes or crops. The Church sent clothing emergency food, water and tools .

None of the missionaries were affected by these events.

Testimony of the Book of Mormon

2010-06-11T15:11:00.000-06:00

Welcome Nuevos

2010-05-26T21:05:00.003-06:00

On May 25th we recieved new missionaries to carry forth the endevor of saving Heavenly Father's children in Guatemala. These faithful and ready workers are; Elders Olson, Francks, Hale, Tanner, Luke, Mercado, Martinez, Monge, and Sister Peterson.

We had a wonderful training session with them as well as a filling lunch. This group is interesting because we have a missionary who has only been a member for 1 year, a brother of one of our current missionaries (Elder Luke) as well as a missionary who is in the U.S. National Guard who had to get special permission to fulfill a mission. We appreciate all of your sacrifices young men and women of the Lord.

Adios May Misioneros

2010-05-26T20:53:00.004-06:00

We said good bye to Elder William Valdez who was the first missionary that we met while attending Mission President's training at the MTC in June of 2008. How Time flys! With him went Elders Luis Vasquez, Jose Flores, Carlos Escamilla, Luis Medrano, Marlon Maradiaga, Carlos Mendez, Erick Avila and Hermana Daniela Velasquez. Cuidense.

During our farewell luncheon we had a visit from "spider man." 12 floors up! See photo.

Opening new areas

2010-05-26T20:40:00.003-06:00

The influx of new missionaries is always a great challenge as well as opportunity. We prepared for the additional missionaries by opening up new areas. We have Opened the following; El Estor 2, Los Campos 2, Trebol 2, Esperanza 2, La Laguna 3, Sayaxche 2, La Libertad (Las Cruzes) , and Poptun 2.

Thank goodness for "Paiz" , which is a Walmart type store where we could get all the items needed to set up new houses. It took 6 shopping carts!

The focus of the new areas is to strengthen the existing church units there.

Elder Falabella's Teachings

2010-05-20T21:05:00.005-06:00

How blessed we were to have Elder Falabella of the 1st quorum of seventy visit our mission and leave with us leassons of doctrine, testimony and inspiration on how to best meet the responsibilitites of our great commission to preach the everlasting gospel.

Our focus is to work more diligently

to search out entire families to bring into the kingdom

and to open our mouths and proclaim the truths to all God's children.

One way which the missionaries are using to lose their fear is to get up everytime they travel on a bus and proclaim the gospel to the entire busload of people. This is not always effective in acquiring references, but it does give missionaries the confidence they need to "proclaim to every soul."

Detalles

2010-05-20T20:53:00.004-06:00

In Spanish they have a word "detalles" that means...to be thoughtful or considerate . Since the mission is the university of "life" the missionaries were so thoughtful to have remembered Sister Torres' Birthday with flowers, a card, balloons, and Chocolate! Remember the "detalles" in your future marriages Elders and you will build a Celestrial Home and family.

How blessed we are

2010-04-17T22:48:00.005-06:00

On April 13th we received a wonderful new group of missionaries. 20 total. This means that 2/3 of our mission has missionaries who have been in the mission 6 months or less. Some of the new Senior companions are fairly new themselves, yet we have faith that they will do just fine, because this work is not the work of young men, but this work is of God. It is to bring about salvation to the souls of Guatemala who are ready to enter into a covenant with Him.

Our new missionaries are Elder Lusty, Landon Anderson, McPhee, Hebert, Thacker,Anhder, Winkel, Fadel, Bronson, Hatch, Morrow, Dixon, Smith, Castro, Jose Gonzalez, Monzon, Chavarria, Chirinos and Sisters Endicott and Gomez. We have been waiting for you...now we can move forward!

Mission Zone Leaders

2010-04-17T00:01:00.004-06:00

Due to the many changes in the mission we have also seen a great deal of change in our leadership. These Zone Leaders are working hard to help us reach our goals...two baptisms per companionship, per month. With an emphasis on families and priesthood age men.

¡Oh hermanos, adiós,pues adiós!

2010-04-16T23:37:00.003-06:00

We said goodbye to Elders Josue Garcia, Bertrand, Arita and Sister Leslie Rodas. "El momento de ir vino ya. " himnos p.88

Smile

2010-04-16T23:12:00.003-06:00

One thing for sure...missionaries love taking pictures. Hollywood has nothing over the photographers of the mission. All we lack is the red carpet!

Jolly Ranchers for polished shoes

2010-04-16T22:53:00.003-06:00

Missionaries have a challenge keeping shoes polished, when all the streets have dust and mud. So as an incentive to do the "impossible" they are rewarded for bringing polished shoes to Zone Conference. It is very "sweet" to see them line-up for their reward. Nice shoes Elders!

12 + 11 = A great bunch of new missionaries

2010-03-04T23:20:00.003-06:00

We are so very blessed to have faithful young men and women who have answed the Lord's call to proclaim the message of the restoration of all things to the wonderful people of Guatemala. 11 missionaries arrived Monday March 1st from Provo's MTC and 12 Latino missionaries were picked up at the MTC on Tues, March 2. Elders, Williams, Osmond, Harmon, Jensen, Fast, Toolson, Hexson, Whited, Mortensen, Jennings, Godfrey, Aguilar, Maldonado, Escalante, Plata, Rapalo, Mendoza, Marquez, Gutierres, Gallo, and Sisters Chinchilla and Cabrera, Welcome to the greatest mission on earth!

Mission tour Jan'10

2010-02-07T18:55:00.002-06:00

Along with our District Conference, we started our first mission tour of 2010. We commenced in Peten, stopping to do some housing inspections on the way. Then we headed towards Coban and then on to beautiful Senahu. The weather and the missionaries were just....Beautiful!

San Benito District Conference

2010-02-07T18:43:00.004-06:00

We had a wonderful experience Jan 23 & 24th, where Elder Falabella from the 1st quorum of 70 and his wife accompanied us to the San Benito District Conference. San Benito District is the front runner to becoming a stake. Elder Falabella gave them advice on many subjects to help them grow in the gospel and live happier lives. We were also delighted by the Districts wonderful choir.

The Lord looketh upon the heart

2010-01-19T21:16:00.003-06:00

Jan 19th we trained our English speaking missionaries. They had a luncheon at the mission home and then were introduced to their new companions. We had 11 come to the training with tired bodies after their long trip, but open hearts and humble souls as they learned the lessons that would help them accomplish their commission to search, teach and baptize the Lord's chosen people in preparation for His return to the earth.

They came By Plane, By Bus

2010-01-18T22:52:00.002-06:00

Our first missionaries of the new year arrived January 18th. Since we are expecting 25 total we decided to rent our own "Missionary Bus." Welcome to Guatemala Elders Hardisty, Ziemann, Hale, Jones, Mays, Montierth, Seppi, Howard, Broadie, Parry, Brewer, and Carlson.

The first to Return Home

2010-01-18T22:40:00.005-06:00

We sent our first group of missionaries of the year 2010. They left on a wonderful note, with most of them baptizing or having investigators with baptismal dates set. Those going home were Elders Wood, Reeder, Fuents, Maradriaga, Pututau, Waters, Cruz, Carranza, Robles, Cetina, Arango, Salas, Sisters Castillo,Hall, Milburn, and Kaufana. "Way to end a mission Elders and Sisters!

In the North Mission, WE BAPTIZE

2010-01-18T22:23:00.005-06:00

This has been a historic week for us here in Gutemala, WE REACHED OUR GOAL!! 40 baptisms a week! This week we had 43. Of every 8 people baptised, we had a family. One third of our baptisms were males older than 18 who can recieve the Melchizedek Priesthood. It was our faithful and diligent missionaries who made the difference. Onward to building the kingdom of God!

New Year, New Missionaries, New Areas

2010-01-14T22:01:00.003-06:00

We are anticipating a great New Year! We have been notified that our mission will increase in the number of missionaries. We therefore are working to prepare for the new arrivals to enter this January 18th. By this coming April we should have about 206 missionaries in our Army of Helaman. Some of the new areas opening up are; another set of missionaries in El Fiscal, Olivos, Trebol dos, Flores, and Poptun will be divided between two sets of Elders...."adios hermanas."

To prepare for this growth we have acquired 29 beds, 24 stoves,24 gas tanks, 10 refrigerators, 18 fans, not to mention the tables, chairs, other incidentals that are needed. Some of these items are waiting for the new arrivals at the Mission dormitory...aka: Office Elders' apartment.

Pastorella in Coban

2009-12-28T22:14:00.003-06:00

For the 4th consecutive year the Coban saints sponsored a “Pastorella”, which is a live nativity using real animals and people to depict Mary and Joseph on their way to Bethlehem. Our missionaries, in the area, participated in dress as well as in the choir. They had about 200 people gather at Central Park and walk about 1 mile towards a shopping center where the city stopped all traffic to allow the procession to pass. A program was presented by the Coban Stake telling the nativity story to all in attendance in the mall. It received local and national news coverage. (see complete slide show to the right)

Burning the Devil

2009-12-28T22:04:00.002-06:00

Here in Guatemala they have a quaint custom on Dec 7th, which just happened to be our change day, where they burn the "old to make room for the new." They collect their trash and throw in a piñata that looks like the Devil and call it "Burn the Devil" day. Some of the Devils are real works of art. They even have dancers dressed in Devil outfits who wear fireworks to simulate the burning. Scary but fun!

Welcome to our world

2009-12-28T21:42:00.004-06:00

As with every mission change day, we always a have a new group of faithful new young people, ready to "embark in the service of God," Our new missionareis are Elders Daun, Davis, Peterson, and Sisters Mitchell, Caceres, Rodas, Cajti, Vasquez, Salazar, Castillo and Gonzalez. Bienvenidos!

Home for Christmas

2009-12-28T21:27:00.003-06:00

The missionaries who made it home for Christmas after having fulfilled a successful mission were Elder Belliston, Elder Ocampo, Miner, Cordobas, Roberto Martinez, Jake Hansen, Elder Swensen, Sisters Delis Hernandez, Lott, Menocal and Sister Balderomar. Feliz Navidad

Elder Costa's visit

2009-11-27T21:20:00.003-06:00

After the Presidents seminar Elder Costa took the time to address the missionaries who were serving in the Guatemala City area. This also included the missionaries from the other two missions, South and Central. It was wonderful for our missionaries to see some of their friends made when they were in the MTC. Elder Costa shared personal insights from the time when he was a mission president and bore strong testimony of the truth which is the Restored Gospel message.

Cooking up a storm

2009-11-27T21:03:00.003-06:00

In an effort to help the missionaries stay healthy and learn skills that will help them even after the mission Sister Torres took her cooking demonstration on the road. She presented 14 demonstrations that included tips on budgeting, shopping, safely preparing food and some basic ideas on making Quick meals that will “please the eye and gladden the heart”. D&C 59:18,19. French Toast anyone?

Missionary Workshops

2009-11-27T20:51:00.002-06:00

Each Zone Conference we offer a variety of workshops to help the missionaries train in strengthening skills that will make them more effective teachers of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Preach My Gospel is our main text along with the scriptures. The following workshop was presented by our Assistants based on the theme taken from Luke 14: 28-32 on the need to plan for a successful outcome.

President's Seminar 2009

2009-11-27T20:34:00.002-06:00

This year we were blessed to be trained by Elder Anderson of the Quorum of the twelve and Elder Costa of the 70’s presidency as well as by our Area Presidency Elder Clarke, Elder Falabella and Elder Martino. We did a Temple session in Guatemala with all the other Presidents who serve in Central America on our fist day. Afterwards we went together by bus to the our lodging which was a place near Antigua called “La Reunion.” The area was surrounded by volcanoes, beautiful singing birds and lush lawns. The most humbling of all, was our experience to be taught by men of God on how best to fulfill our calling

Building Zion, one leader at a time

2009-11-27T20:25:00.003-06:00

Strengthening the District Presidencies was the objective of our training. On Oct 23rd the Presidencies were trained on basics of administration, ministering and doctrine. They were thanked for their service and even went bowling for the first time. It was fun to see the brethren from Polochic become pretty good at rolling the ball. We hoped to build God’s Kingdom, one priesthood leader at a time.

Black hands, happy hearts

2009-10-20T21:53:00.005-06:00

The Elders in the Petén Zone thought of a wonderful way to bring the shine of the gospel to the people of La Libertad, by offering FREE shoe shines. As they buffed their shoes and boots, they let the gospel's truths add a shine to their life. They came away with black hands, happy hearts for having served the people and 21 referrals of souls to teach.

The Bible in Guatemala

2009-10-15T21:53:00.002-06:00

Coinciding with Guatemala’s Independence Day was the beginning of the sale of the Church's published Bible here. September 15th was the first day the book was going to be made available. We had change day so by the time we arrived in the afternoon, hoping to purchase our book, the books had sold out. The Distribution staff told us that they had people lined-up at 6am in the morning waiting for the doors to open so they could be among the first to have a copy. We managed to purchase prepaid a few boxes that we planned to take to the missionaries located outside the city and those surrounding the capital. We sold them at cost and made them available to those missionaries who wanted them. Many missionaries purchased numerous books to give as gifts to their investigators. Everywhere we went we felt the excitement that having this long awaited book, finally in our hands. We know that it is a blessing to all Spanish speaking peoples and we humbly thank God and all the many people who made this miracle possible.

Two New Chapels in Peten

2009-10-15T21:46:00.004-06:00

Two new beautiful Chapels were completed and dedicated on Oct 11th by President Torres. These buildings are gifts to the members as well as the community, since their aesthetic appearance improves every neighborhood where they are located. Open Houses were held so that the neighbors could freely come and see the interiors. The chapels are located in San Andres and Santa Elena.

That all things to be done in Order

2009-09-23T16:24:00.004-06:00

Our missionaries have regular "inspections" of their dwellings. For the most part they do their best to keep them neat and in order. Here are some of the most resent apartments. San Luis, Petén, Dolores, Petén and Alameda. Good job Elders! "For the Spirit can not dwell in any unclean thing." (see slide show for more photos)

When ye are in the service of your fellowman, ye are in the service of your God

2009-09-23T15:53:00.003-06:00

Our missionaries in the Peten Zone and the city missionaries were busy helping with service to their respective communities. Cleaning the surrounding beautiful Lake Itza in Peten of trash as well as packing food that the Church humanitarian department sent to help alleviate the hunger here in Guatemala City.

Mission Leadership

2009-09-19T18:28:00.004-06:00

A vital aspect of any mission is strength of its leaders. Our Zone Leaders do much to keep our organization moving forward in the way we hope is pleasing to our Savior, for we know that this work that we do each day is His. The leaders meet once a month in the Capital to receive instruction from the Presidant and each other as well as share ideas to help us meet our mission objective to "invite others to Come unto Christ." We also have a lot of fun as to "enjoy the journey."

Labor, not only for productive accomplishment, but for its capacity to ennoble the soul and strengthen the character

2009-09-19T17:23:00.004-06:00

The new "laborers" to our mission are Elders Escate, Fernandez, Gabriel Garcia, Luis Martinez, Eric Morales, Rolin, Housley, and Sisters Barillas, Echeverria, and Varela. We had a fine meal of "Pollo a la Mexicana" and a wonderful orientation to get them started in a positive manner here in the mission field.

Viva Guatemala!

2009-09-19T17:04:00.005-06:00

Our change day for the month of Sept came on the 14th. It just so happened that that is also the one of the days Guatemalans celebrate their Independence day. So we celebrated by giving leave of nine of our wonderful missionaries who had completed their assigned time here in the mission field. They were Elder Wessman, Moore, Trout, Walker Ramirez, Hermanas Fajardo, Calderón, Esther Morales, and Hermana Karen Chávez. We also said "hasta la vista" to Sister Oremuno who was reassigned to work in the Temple.

Open your mouth Zone Activity

2009-09-08T13:53:00.003-06:00

Alameda Zone again joined forces with ward missionaries, future missionaries and the missionaries in their Zone to have open houses in their areas in an effort to find more people to teach. Their efforts produced 282 referrals and wonderful fellowship between the members and full time missionaries. This is why they are called....awesome Alameda!

Ye have entered into a Covenant

2009-08-28T23:25:00.006-06:00

On Aug 22 we had one of the most memorable events of our mission. We traveled to Senahú and there another 2 hour drive high into the mountains to witness 11 people enter into a baptismal covenant surrounded by some of the most beautiful country on this continent. As we descended to the place of the baptism the rains sprinkled us on our journey. As soon as we arrived the rains ceased and the sun shone adding light to illuminate the radiant feeling we felt in our hearts as we witnessed a scene that could have taken place thousands of years previous, in that same beautiful site.

"Now I say unto you, if this be the desire of your hearts, what have you against being baptized in the name of the Lord, as a witness before him that ye have entered into a covenant with him, that ye will serve him and keep his commandments, that he may pour out his Spirit more abundantly upon you? " Mosiah 18:10

Following up on our "Money Matters"$$

2009-08-28T20:35:00.004-06:00

The City Zones also received workshops on finances and how to best manage the sacred resources, however they were not by Sister Barney since her mission finished on Monday August 24th. Sister Torres taught the class with Q &A afterward to clarify the procedures. Our Zone theme was..."cleansing the inner vessels."

One for the Money$$

2009-08-28T20:09:00.004-06:00

Our Zone Conferences started on Aug 17th in Flores, Peten, which also included some "service" to the Elders by giving them haircuts to help them keep cool and looking their best. This was repeated in the Polochic Zones. Sister Barney from the Central Mission came along to give our missionaries a workshop on how to budget their monthly money assignments, with emphasis on the sacredness of the funds. They were taught how to make a monthly budget, save for emergencies, and use these skills to help them once they leave the mission field, that they may become "provident providers". (see sidebar for more pixs)

Mas Grande!

2009-08-13T17:14:00.004-06:00

We received the largest group of new missionaries ever. Twenty One new missionaries were picked up on Tuesday August 4th. We divided the group into two, one with English orientation and the other with orientation in Spanish. Our new missionaries are; Elders Bates, Schone, Bowman, Bruneel, Clark, DeGraw, Goodwin, Jensen, Larsen, Legua, Snell, Smith, Turek, Williams, Youngberg, Guerra, Lopez, Orozco, Rodriquez, Manzanares, and Hermana Pineda.

Both groups had orientation in the Mission Office with a Sloppy Joe luncheon at the Mission home.

The new missionaries will start their training in the city to be near the President and have access and input to insure their training is the best possible.

Back to School

2009-08-13T17:03:00.003-06:00

This August we sent home 10 missionaries so they might be prepared for school. Elder Matineau opted to stay another 30 days and is currently helping in the office. Those finishing their missions with great honor were; Elders Clingo, Wright (our Assistant) Bean, Bartholomew, Bleggi, Shackelford, Greenquist, Harnandez, and Hermanas Duarte and Morales. Study hard! You will be missed.

Pioneer Day Celebration

2009-08-13T14:56:00.002-06:00

We celebrated Pioneer Day on P-Day July 20th. We had a devotional in the chapel in missionary work cloths where we shared stories, bore testimonies and heard beautiful musical numbers by the 5 zones that came to remember the sacrifices of the early pioneers and realized that we, are also doing our part to build the Kingdom of God on the earth, with "Faith in every footstep." (see complete slideshow on the right)