January 14, 2013

I am just praying that the weather stays in the negative mid twenties here in Kurgan. The zone is doing great as we are striving to find new investigators and setting baptismal dates with them. It has been a testing period for all the companionships here as we have set baptismal dates and meetings but many fall through in the end. The elders in the center of the city have two baptismal dates that are looking not as concrete aw they once did. They ,like us, have been experincing difficulties in keeping in contact with investigators. We are keeping our spirits up, however, not considering the dissapointments by strengthening our member-missionary relationships. 

This past week, I conducted zone training succesfully. The whole zone was edified by the training, role plays and spiritual thought that were shared. It was great to get through all the information due to the smart idea I had of making my own agenda similar to the one that we have at ZLC and sending that to everyone before hand. We all came prepared to learn from eachother and from the Spirit. I couldn't ask for a better zone! Everyone is working hard. 

Elder P and I, have been meeting and strengthing the members in our area and have been working with recently found or former investigators. One man from the formers has been showing interest and we met with a family this past week that is willing to make tacos and have a lesson before hand. We will be looking forward to doing that this week and seeing the progress that comes from it. In January we started to clock in contacting hours for the new english converstion group that we will be leading in February. We have to collect about ten or more contacts specifically pertaining to the new group. 

I am enjoying everyday here in beautiful Russia! I am so greatful everyday to do work, have fun and live the gospel to its fullest! I love you all and appreciate the love and support you all give! I am also praying for you and would like to let you know that all the trials you are facing or may face is a chance to become stronger. Look and rely upon the Lord, working and striving to accomplish everything that is good and virtuous and he will provide the extra strength you need to rise above the darkness, trials, and hardships you face! It is all due to the Atonement of Jesus Christ and his love for everyone of us. Don't forget that! MAY THE FORCE (SPIRIT) BE WITH YOU!! 

Love,

Elder LeFevre