Hello Family and Friends!
Sister Scofield and I have been working hard to get Olney organized. Yesterday we finished the final touches on our organizational project. It's exciting and as you know me, I love to be organized! We have come to know our ward really well as we have studied the names and situations of each member. The Olney 1st ward is wonderful. We have dinner for the next few weeks and when we are at the VC during the night shift we have lunch. Although it is a blessing that I am grateful for, please pray for my tummy. The food is delicious, but can be quite rich. Our love for the people of the ward is growing. I love developing "missionary relationships" with members. We are here to help them magnify their callings as missionaries.
Maylek was baptized this last Sunday. I wasn't able to attend the service, but Sister Everts took pictures for me. From what I heard, Sister Moorman was absolutely beaming. Maylek was a little nervous, but he was great! I am excited for the life that he can now live as a disciple of Jesus Christ.
Currently we are teaching a woman named Lisa. She is a friend of one of the members (who is in the stake presidency) and she is wonderful. We taught Lisa the first lesson this last Monday night and plan to teach her the second lesson this coming Monday night at the member's home. The Spirit was very strong during the lesson and she asked many insightful questions. She was listening and learning. She said the closing prayer at the end of the lesson and it was simple, yet powerful. We have a goal as a mission to always have a kneeling prayer after the first lesson and to ask the investigator to say the prayer. It's part of the "Language of Faith" program. I'm excited to see how Lisa will progress.
Zone Conference was Monday afternoon with Elder Wickman. The conferenced focused on Teaching for Commitments. Invitations = Commitment = Repentance. I was especially touched by President and Sister Price's remarks. I could feel of their strong concern and love for us. There talks have committed us to be more dedicated and diligent missionaries. I had the oppotunity to meet Elder Wickman and I know that he is a man called of God.
During the conference a strong feeling came over me that I was doing exactly what the Lord needed me to do at this time in my life. I was a bit overwhelmed by the feeling. The Spirit testifies of truth and I'm grateful that the Lord saw fit to testify to me that he is pleased with my decision to serve.
I sang "I Stand All Amazed" and it was an interesting experience. The arrangement is beautiful, but I accidently sang the 2nd verse twice. I just assume that the Lord needed someone to hear the 2nd verse again. Before I perform I always pray for the Spirit to touch the hearts of those listening. After the conference my companion told me that while she was translating (ASL) the song, one of the deaf elders was moved to tears. The Spirit is very real and can touch hearts even when words cannot be heard. I am grateful that the Lord allows me to use my talents while serving him.
During my studies of pride this week I have lived by a formula to help me with my own pridefulness. First, we must recognize that we are being prideful. Second, we must immediately pray for strength from the Lord, whether it be a prayer in our hearts or out loud. Third, we must choose to change. As I have applied this formula to my life as a missionary, I have found that I am happier and more excited about missionary work. I know that the Lord blesses us when we are humble.
I know that the Lord is leading us through his Spirit to do and say what he would do and say. I am grateful that we have the gift of the Holy Ghost and may we always be worthy of the constant companionship because it truly is a gift.
Family, thank you for the letters and pictures. Mari is so big and beautiful. It's wonderful to feel connected through letters. The Lord is strengthening our relationships and I'm grateful! I'm going to the temple tomorrow! I'll be sure to let you know about my experience next week!
"Go hard or go home! Don't worry be happy!"
I love you,
Sister Hogge
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Thursday, April 12, 2007
12 April 2007
Dearest Family,
What a treat for me to meet Ben Redfern yesterday. His brother was taking care of his baby, Ben Jr., and being a VC sister I asked where he (the brother) was from, why he was waiting, etc. When he told me his brother served in the Sacramento mission, I got pretty excited. It was fun to spend a few minutes talking with E. Redfern. All he did was brag about how wonderful dad is...which is true. I am impressed with dad's involvement in the Sacramento mission. Not all counselors of the Mission President spend as much time as dad does. Every missionary loves dad and I am proud to be his daughter. Ben mentioned that he will definitely come back to visit me at the VC. My heart strings were pulled tight as I watched him talk to dad...one month until I get to do the same.
Olney is a beautiful area. Most of the area is out in the country. It reminds me of Wilton. The city part of the area reminds me of Elk Grove. It's wonderful because I feel somewhat at home here. The members of the Olney 1st ward are AMAZING! I am excited to get to work with them. They are very supportive and are happy to have sisters in the ward. Bytheway, we are driving a truck for the transfer! I love it! I will definitely send some pictures of my truck.
The weather has been cold and rainy lately. A few days ago it SNOWED! This weather is definitely bipolar! Easter was wonderful. I spent Easter Sunday at the VC. The Washington D.C. Mormon Choir came to perform selections from the Messiah. I just happened to be one of the ushers for the performance and I loved every minute! It was a perfect way to celebrate Easter. The Messiah moved me in such a way that it never has before. It's all different as a missionary when you listen to such sacred and inspired music. I enjoyed it very much.
Thank you for the package of letters. It was better than Christmas. Your letters are priceless to me. I especially loved the letter that Uncle Andy had written dad the day after I was born...the letter is precious to me and I'm grateful for it. Reading his letter touched me and gave me added desire and determination to be with everyone I love forever. It is so important to me.
Tuesday was our Combined District Meeting. We got lost along our way to the meeting and arrived at two other churches before we finally arrived at the right one. We were an hour late, but we were patient. President talked about removing all of the "detestable things" from our lives (D&C). Detestable things are anything that detracts from our focus on the Lord and the work...attitude, thoughts, material things etc. I love how we can apply the scriptures to ourselves. I know that I struggle with pride, but the Lord is helping me each day. When we compare ourselves with others and when we don't use the gifts God has given us we are being prideful. (D&C 30:1-2; 60:2-3)
My companion, Sister Scofield, is wonderful. I am learning everything I can from her. She is from Provo, Utah and she learned sign language in the MTC. When she came out into the field she was in the sign language program and although she is in the English program now, she translates at meetings. We found out yesterday that her Grandma died. President called her and gave her permission to call her family. It was interesting because we had just been talking about the Spirit World and the death of loved ones earlier yesterday morning. We are so grateful for Heavenly Father's plan of peace. She is strong and has a wonderful attitude.
This coming week we have zone conference with Elder Wickman and I have been asked to sing again. It will be a wonderful experience I'm sure. I feel blessed to be able to use my talents so often on my mission.
Well, the work is coming along slowly but surely. We are all organized and just trying to get to know all of the members, less-actives, and part-member families in the ward. I work very hard every day and go to bed so tired, but it feels good.
I love you all and I'm so happy to be serving the Lord.
Love, Sister Hogge
p.s.
- Sarah, I met Sister Eppison in the VC. She is serving the Baltimore mission and says she knows you from China. We took pictures and I'll be sure to send you one.
- I would love to write a letter to Mary, just let me know the details.
- President said that I can't sing with Galena, but if I happen to be there or I'm scheduled to be there (which I will be) it's okay.
- Because summer is coming knee highs are greatly appreciated (No nonsense). I need more tan than black. Summer clothes are needed, light weight t-shirts, wrinkle free, etc.
- Send Grandma and Grandpa Hogge my love.
What a treat for me to meet Ben Redfern yesterday. His brother was taking care of his baby, Ben Jr., and being a VC sister I asked where he (the brother) was from, why he was waiting, etc. When he told me his brother served in the Sacramento mission, I got pretty excited. It was fun to spend a few minutes talking with E. Redfern. All he did was brag about how wonderful dad is...which is true. I am impressed with dad's involvement in the Sacramento mission. Not all counselors of the Mission President spend as much time as dad does. Every missionary loves dad and I am proud to be his daughter. Ben mentioned that he will definitely come back to visit me at the VC. My heart strings were pulled tight as I watched him talk to dad...one month until I get to do the same.
Olney is a beautiful area. Most of the area is out in the country. It reminds me of Wilton. The city part of the area reminds me of Elk Grove. It's wonderful because I feel somewhat at home here. The members of the Olney 1st ward are AMAZING! I am excited to get to work with them. They are very supportive and are happy to have sisters in the ward. Bytheway, we are driving a truck for the transfer! I love it! I will definitely send some pictures of my truck.
The weather has been cold and rainy lately. A few days ago it SNOWED! This weather is definitely bipolar! Easter was wonderful. I spent Easter Sunday at the VC. The Washington D.C. Mormon Choir came to perform selections from the Messiah. I just happened to be one of the ushers for the performance and I loved every minute! It was a perfect way to celebrate Easter. The Messiah moved me in such a way that it never has before. It's all different as a missionary when you listen to such sacred and inspired music. I enjoyed it very much.
Thank you for the package of letters. It was better than Christmas. Your letters are priceless to me. I especially loved the letter that Uncle Andy had written dad the day after I was born...the letter is precious to me and I'm grateful for it. Reading his letter touched me and gave me added desire and determination to be with everyone I love forever. It is so important to me.
Tuesday was our Combined District Meeting. We got lost along our way to the meeting and arrived at two other churches before we finally arrived at the right one. We were an hour late, but we were patient. President talked about removing all of the "detestable things" from our lives (D&C). Detestable things are anything that detracts from our focus on the Lord and the work...attitude, thoughts, material things etc. I love how we can apply the scriptures to ourselves. I know that I struggle with pride, but the Lord is helping me each day. When we compare ourselves with others and when we don't use the gifts God has given us we are being prideful. (D&C 30:1-2; 60:2-3)
My companion, Sister Scofield, is wonderful. I am learning everything I can from her. She is from Provo, Utah and she learned sign language in the MTC. When she came out into the field she was in the sign language program and although she is in the English program now, she translates at meetings. We found out yesterday that her Grandma died. President called her and gave her permission to call her family. It was interesting because we had just been talking about the Spirit World and the death of loved ones earlier yesterday morning. We are so grateful for Heavenly Father's plan of peace. She is strong and has a wonderful attitude.
This coming week we have zone conference with Elder Wickman and I have been asked to sing again. It will be a wonderful experience I'm sure. I feel blessed to be able to use my talents so often on my mission.
Well, the work is coming along slowly but surely. We are all organized and just trying to get to know all of the members, less-actives, and part-member families in the ward. I work very hard every day and go to bed so tired, but it feels good.
I love you all and I'm so happy to be serving the Lord.
Love, Sister Hogge
p.s.
- Sarah, I met Sister Eppison in the VC. She is serving the Baltimore mission and says she knows you from China. We took pictures and I'll be sure to send you one.
- I would love to write a letter to Mary, just let me know the details.
- President said that I can't sing with Galena, but if I happen to be there or I'm scheduled to be there (which I will be) it's okay.
- Because summer is coming knee highs are greatly appreciated (No nonsense). I need more tan than black. Summer clothes are needed, light weight t-shirts, wrinkle free, etc.
- Send Grandma and Grandpa Hogge my love.
Thursday, April 5, 2007
5 April 2007
Dearest Family,
I am so happy to hear that Grandpa is doing better. Maureen came into the VC this past week. It was wonderful to see her and to get a hug from mom...but, she also told me that Grandpa was back in the hospital. Although I haven't had much time to think these past few days I was a little worried about Grandpa. I feel comforted now that all is well.
I was transferred yesterday to a new area!! I am in Olney, it is a HUGE area above White Oak East. I have a new companion, Sister Scofield. She is WONDERFUL! I love her soooo much. We are "white washing" Olney. Which means that elders used to live here and now we live here. So, basically we are starting from the beginning. I am excited to have this new experience. One of the assistants was telling me yesterday that the Bishop in this area loves sisters and that they need lots of help with the missionary work. I am definitely up for the challenge! We moved into an elder's apartment and cleaned ALL DAY today!! Boys are soooo gross! Luckily Sister Scofield and I both love to clean and to stay clean! The apartment looks like a different apartment now. When we arrived there were dishes in the sink and food and dishes all over the counters!! Oh well, at least we have a great apartment. I don't know much about Olney, but from what I have seen it is beautiful, clean, and there is lots of country in our area. It's pretty much opposite from my last area. Tomorrow we will get more organized. Bytheway, my P-Days are now on Thursdays.
Conference was AMAZING!!! I especially enjoyed Elder Holland and Elder Uchtdorf's talks. I have never been so inspired and touched as I was this time of conference. There was once a group of turkeys that met together in a barn. One of the turkeys taught the other turkeys how to fly. They were all so excited and flew around the barn excitedly. However, when it was time to go home the turkeys all walked home. I think that's how many members are after conference...think about it.
Lyn came to a session at a member's home with Sister Moorman and Maylek. Afterwards we had dinner...the miracle of fellowshipping. Lyn told us the other day that she didn't want to be baptized. Since then we have helped her with her concerns, these things take time. She is truly searching. We took the metro to the VC with Lyn to watch the Joseph Smith movie. Riding the metro was definitely an experience. It was fun, hot, crowded, crazy, and still fun. When Lyn heard the news that I was being transferred she was hurt and a little angry. I assured her that all would be well.
The Yemens also came to the VC this past week...that was a miracle. Our ride for them canceled 20min. before we were supposed to leave and we had been trying to get them to the VC for the past month. We quickly called everyone in the ward and Sister Willis, the bishop's wife, offered to help. What a blessing...the Lord's tender mercies. Miracles happen and when we do our part we can expect miracles! The experience at the VC with the Yemens was beautiful! Their conversion will take time, but they will be a wonderful and strong family in the church. I will miss them.
We taught Maylek again this past week. He is getting anxious to be baptized. I will miss Sister Moorman and Maylek, but the Lord knows best. I am glad that I can trust the Lord.
6 of the sisters left this last transfer. I had become really close to many of them. I am grateful for reunions and letters. I have learned so much from them and feel blessed to keep learning and growing.
The week was great and hard. I have decided that my new theme for my mission is, "It's true isn't it? Then what else matters?" As a missionary I have promised the Lord to give everything to him. I am living for him and not for myself (2 Cor. 5:15).
Next Thursday I am going to the city with a big group of sisters. We are going for the cherry blossom festival!! I hope that all is well with everyone. There is so much more to say, but my time is up. I love you.
Love, Sister Hogge
p.s. Thank you for the packages! I loved everything!
Elder Child has requested that I maybe sing with Hilly in the show when she comes...I still have to get permission to sing from President, but I'll let you know.
I met someone yesterday who knows Aunt Penny and someone else who went to Folosm High.
I am so happy to hear that Grandpa is doing better. Maureen came into the VC this past week. It was wonderful to see her and to get a hug from mom...but, she also told me that Grandpa was back in the hospital. Although I haven't had much time to think these past few days I was a little worried about Grandpa. I feel comforted now that all is well.
I was transferred yesterday to a new area!! I am in Olney, it is a HUGE area above White Oak East. I have a new companion, Sister Scofield. She is WONDERFUL! I love her soooo much. We are "white washing" Olney. Which means that elders used to live here and now we live here. So, basically we are starting from the beginning. I am excited to have this new experience. One of the assistants was telling me yesterday that the Bishop in this area loves sisters and that they need lots of help with the missionary work. I am definitely up for the challenge! We moved into an elder's apartment and cleaned ALL DAY today!! Boys are soooo gross! Luckily Sister Scofield and I both love to clean and to stay clean! The apartment looks like a different apartment now. When we arrived there were dishes in the sink and food and dishes all over the counters!! Oh well, at least we have a great apartment. I don't know much about Olney, but from what I have seen it is beautiful, clean, and there is lots of country in our area. It's pretty much opposite from my last area. Tomorrow we will get more organized. Bytheway, my P-Days are now on Thursdays.
Conference was AMAZING!!! I especially enjoyed Elder Holland and Elder Uchtdorf's talks. I have never been so inspired and touched as I was this time of conference. There was once a group of turkeys that met together in a barn. One of the turkeys taught the other turkeys how to fly. They were all so excited and flew around the barn excitedly. However, when it was time to go home the turkeys all walked home. I think that's how many members are after conference...think about it.
Lyn came to a session at a member's home with Sister Moorman and Maylek. Afterwards we had dinner...the miracle of fellowshipping. Lyn told us the other day that she didn't want to be baptized. Since then we have helped her with her concerns, these things take time. She is truly searching. We took the metro to the VC with Lyn to watch the Joseph Smith movie. Riding the metro was definitely an experience. It was fun, hot, crowded, crazy, and still fun. When Lyn heard the news that I was being transferred she was hurt and a little angry. I assured her that all would be well.
The Yemens also came to the VC this past week...that was a miracle. Our ride for them canceled 20min. before we were supposed to leave and we had been trying to get them to the VC for the past month. We quickly called everyone in the ward and Sister Willis, the bishop's wife, offered to help. What a blessing...the Lord's tender mercies. Miracles happen and when we do our part we can expect miracles! The experience at the VC with the Yemens was beautiful! Their conversion will take time, but they will be a wonderful and strong family in the church. I will miss them.
We taught Maylek again this past week. He is getting anxious to be baptized. I will miss Sister Moorman and Maylek, but the Lord knows best. I am glad that I can trust the Lord.
6 of the sisters left this last transfer. I had become really close to many of them. I am grateful for reunions and letters. I have learned so much from them and feel blessed to keep learning and growing.
The week was great and hard. I have decided that my new theme for my mission is, "It's true isn't it? Then what else matters?" As a missionary I have promised the Lord to give everything to him. I am living for him and not for myself (2 Cor. 5:15).
Next Thursday I am going to the city with a big group of sisters. We are going for the cherry blossom festival!! I hope that all is well with everyone. There is so much more to say, but my time is up. I love you.
Love, Sister Hogge
p.s. Thank you for the packages! I loved everything!
Elder Child has requested that I maybe sing with Hilly in the show when she comes...I still have to get permission to sing from President, but I'll let you know.
I met someone yesterday who knows Aunt Penny and someone else who went to Folosm High.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
28 March 2007
Hey family,
Zone Conference was wonderful! President and Sister Price talked about baptism and the Holy Ghost, two PMG principles. It was great to learn from their experiences and insights. I especially enjoyed Sister Price's talk on the "earnest" of the Spirit. You will find more on the subject if you look it up in the Bible Dictionary. It's definitely a great topic to study. We also learned from our Assistants how to use our weekly planning time more wisely. They are such great examples to me! Our zone conference is much shorter than the normal conference. We began at 9am and ended at 1pm. President wants to give us more time to be missionaries I suppose. I know that I will look forward to every zone conference to come. They give me strength to press forward and be a better missionary.
Many of my goals this week have included opening my mouth and talking with every one I see. It's definitely scary, but I'm getting over my fears step by step. It's important to talk with people in between appointments and especially when getting in and out of the car. Sister Everts is helping me think of different approaches using the resources (pamphets, pass along cards, and videos). When we do our best the Lord will bless us with added help and strength. I have found that pride often gets in the way of my progression, but the Lord always humbles us when we don't humble ourselves. I am learning more than I thought I would about myself and I find that I am changing in ways I didn't know I needed change...if that makes sense. You'll hear about more of my struggles and progess on the tapes I'll be sending Friday. It's wonderful!
Maylek - We are teaching Maylek the 3rd lesson today. He is so excited! Sister Moorman is taking us to a Greek restaurant again for dinner. After dinner we will be going back to their house for the lesson.
Lyn - We taught Lyn part of the 2nd lesson this week and we will be teaching her the other half tomorrow. We taught the lesson with a member, Sister Just (gospel principles teacher). The Spirit was strong and prompted us to commit her to baptism (which we were planning to do tomorrow). I committed Lyn to be baptized April 29th. Although hesitant, she accepted. We need to help Lyn with her testimony of the BOM and of Joseph Smith, pray for her! We are so happy for Lyn. She has already changed. She came to church with us this past week and she absolutely loved it!! It was fast and testimony meeting and the Spirit was strong. I felt impressed to bear my testimony and as I did I was overwhelmed with a spirit of love. I have never been so scared to bear my testimony because I had no idea what the Lord wanted me to say. However, the Lord blessed me with the most pure and simple testimony I have ever shared with anyone. It was amazing. I love the White Oak ward. I love their support for the missionaries. They fasted this month for us and for the ward's missionary work. We are so blessed to have a strong, supportive ward.
This coming Sunday Lyn has been invited to watch conference and have dinner at a member's house (we will be coming along as well). We are excited for her to hear a living prophet's voice!! I am sooooo EXCITED for conference! It's like Christmas for missionaries!
We have been working to find new investigators. We taught two new investigators the 1st lesson yesterday, Olga (a member's neighbor) and Melodie (a part-member family's neighbor). They are both sweet and wonderful women. I'm sure you'll hear more about them later.
My prayers and thoughts are with the family always. As I read about Grandpa Hogge my heart hurt and tears came, but only for an instant. The Lord has blessed me with a calm heart because He knows that I would worry myself to no end if I could. The Lord is so merciful to us all. I love you and think about you every day as I go to bed and pray for you. [note from Jeff: For those who don't know, Mindy mentions Grandpa Hogge (Wally) because he had a heart attack last Saturday. After an angioplasty, he is resting now but still in the hospital.]
I am working hard and I'm stepping outside of my comfort zone. I know the Lord needs me here in DC. I feel so blessed that he would want me here to represent him.
I love you, Sister Hogge
p.s. Could I get Joey's school addy? I forgot to mention, no flower patterned skirts. If you come across some cheap rechargeable batteries, let me know (for my camera).
Grandma & pa Buck - Thank you for the postcard!! A letter is coming soon to you! Love you.
Grandma & pa Hogge - My thoughts and prayers are with you. I love you so much!
Zone Conference was wonderful! President and Sister Price talked about baptism and the Holy Ghost, two PMG principles. It was great to learn from their experiences and insights. I especially enjoyed Sister Price's talk on the "earnest" of the Spirit. You will find more on the subject if you look it up in the Bible Dictionary. It's definitely a great topic to study. We also learned from our Assistants how to use our weekly planning time more wisely. They are such great examples to me! Our zone conference is much shorter than the normal conference. We began at 9am and ended at 1pm. President wants to give us more time to be missionaries I suppose. I know that I will look forward to every zone conference to come. They give me strength to press forward and be a better missionary.
Many of my goals this week have included opening my mouth and talking with every one I see. It's definitely scary, but I'm getting over my fears step by step. It's important to talk with people in between appointments and especially when getting in and out of the car. Sister Everts is helping me think of different approaches using the resources (pamphets, pass along cards, and videos). When we do our best the Lord will bless us with added help and strength. I have found that pride often gets in the way of my progression, but the Lord always humbles us when we don't humble ourselves. I am learning more than I thought I would about myself and I find that I am changing in ways I didn't know I needed change...if that makes sense. You'll hear about more of my struggles and progess on the tapes I'll be sending Friday. It's wonderful!
Maylek - We are teaching Maylek the 3rd lesson today. He is so excited! Sister Moorman is taking us to a Greek restaurant again for dinner. After dinner we will be going back to their house for the lesson.
Lyn - We taught Lyn part of the 2nd lesson this week and we will be teaching her the other half tomorrow. We taught the lesson with a member, Sister Just (gospel principles teacher). The Spirit was strong and prompted us to commit her to baptism (which we were planning to do tomorrow). I committed Lyn to be baptized April 29th. Although hesitant, she accepted. We need to help Lyn with her testimony of the BOM and of Joseph Smith, pray for her! We are so happy for Lyn. She has already changed. She came to church with us this past week and she absolutely loved it!! It was fast and testimony meeting and the Spirit was strong. I felt impressed to bear my testimony and as I did I was overwhelmed with a spirit of love. I have never been so scared to bear my testimony because I had no idea what the Lord wanted me to say. However, the Lord blessed me with the most pure and simple testimony I have ever shared with anyone. It was amazing. I love the White Oak ward. I love their support for the missionaries. They fasted this month for us and for the ward's missionary work. We are so blessed to have a strong, supportive ward.
This coming Sunday Lyn has been invited to watch conference and have dinner at a member's house (we will be coming along as well). We are excited for her to hear a living prophet's voice!! I am sooooo EXCITED for conference! It's like Christmas for missionaries!
We have been working to find new investigators. We taught two new investigators the 1st lesson yesterday, Olga (a member's neighbor) and Melodie (a part-member family's neighbor). They are both sweet and wonderful women. I'm sure you'll hear more about them later.
My prayers and thoughts are with the family always. As I read about Grandpa Hogge my heart hurt and tears came, but only for an instant. The Lord has blessed me with a calm heart because He knows that I would worry myself to no end if I could. The Lord is so merciful to us all. I love you and think about you every day as I go to bed and pray for you. [note from Jeff: For those who don't know, Mindy mentions Grandpa Hogge (Wally) because he had a heart attack last Saturday. After an angioplasty, he is resting now but still in the hospital.]
I am working hard and I'm stepping outside of my comfort zone. I know the Lord needs me here in DC. I feel so blessed that he would want me here to represent him.
I love you, Sister Hogge
p.s. Could I get Joey's school addy? I forgot to mention, no flower patterned skirts. If you come across some cheap rechargeable batteries, let me know (for my camera).
Grandma & pa Buck - Thank you for the postcard!! A letter is coming soon to you! Love you.
Grandma & pa Hogge - My thoughts and prayers are with you. I love you so much!
Thursday, March 22, 2007
22 March 2007
Hey Family,
Because of email complications I had to save my email I wrote yesterday and email it to you today...
It was wonderful to receive emails from the Southern Cali coast. Mom and Dad I'm glad that you finally got your long awaited vacation...you deserve some time off!!
This week I have been working on a recording to send to the fam (thank you dad for the tapes, batteries, and recorder). I wanted the family to see what a week in Sister Hogge's life is like. It has been fun to record a short message of my experiences each day. It helps me be accountable for each minute of the day! ; )
Zone conference is tomorrow. I'll let you know how it goes in my next email. One of the assistants called me yesterday and asked if I would sing at the conference. They want me to sing about baptism, the Holy Ghost, the Restoration, or Jesus Christ. I will be singing the usual "Guide Me To Thee." It's simple and always brings the Spirit to meetings. I am excited for my first zone conference. I will also be singing at the VC training meeting this week on Friday morning.
The Christlike attribute that I am working on this week is diligence. The change and vigorous ways of missionary life have been a struggle for me, but I am grateful for what the Lord has been teaching me. I have been praying for the Lord to purify and sanctify my heart that I may give all to him. A few days ago I read Helaman 3:35. Helaman tells us that in order for the Lord to purify and sanctify our hearts we must yield our hearts to the Lord. I know that as we do this we become true followers of Christ.
I have finished reading the BOM with the mission. It has been a fun activity. I have come closer to the Lord as I have studied his words and the words of the prophets. I love the BOM!!
Maylek - Maylek has a baptismal date set for April 15th. YEAH!! We taught him the first lesson this past week and committed him to be baptized...he was very excited! Sister Moorman (Maylek's grandmother) was completely beaming and so happy! He is going to be an AMAZING member of the church. I am so happy for him and for the example that he is not only to his family, but to his future family. At the end of the lesson he asked us "Why are you so happy?" I have been touched by his sincere desires to follow Christ at 8 years old. He is wonderful!
Lyn - We taught Lyn again yesterday. Instead of teaching her the 2nd lesson we felt the Spirit guide us in teaching her about coming unto Christ. Lyn struggles with forgiveness. She has a hard life, much has happened to her, and although she loves us, she has a lot of hate in her heart. We taught her of Christ's invitation to "Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest" (Matt. 11:28-30). We helped her liken these scriptures to herself. She recognized the importance of putting her burdens on the Lord by forgiving and loving others. It was a beautiful lesson. We wrote down three ways that she can "Come unto Christ": daily scripture study, daily prayer, and attending church every week. She felt so much peace and happiness. She is coming to church on Sunday!! We also shared with her about Christ visiting the Americas and blessing the little children (3 Ne. 17). She said the closing prayer for the lesson and it was beautiful and heartfelt. She will be baptized!!
The work is going well and I am absolutely loving working so hard that I'm completely exhausted by the end of the day. It is wonderful. I am doing well and when I struggle I rely on the Lord's strength. He is the only way!
I love being a servant of the Lord!
Love, Sister Hogge
p.s. Mom
- A red and a black skirt would be great. They can have ANY kind of texture etc. Light colored skirts for spring and summer would be wonderful too. Thank you so much, I know you are so busy!
- Could you send me a copy of the duet "Did You Think To Pray?" - thank you!
Dad
- The DearElder letters are great! Whatever works for you. I'm not sure if it gets here sooner than the regular mail, but thank you for your letters.
- In Either 4:1 it talks about the brother of Jared not being able to reveal what he saw to others until after Christ came to the earth and manifested himself in the flesh etc...why? I don't know if this makes sense, I don't have my BOM with me.
Grandma Hogge - thank you for the package...a letter is coming to you in the mail!
Because of email complications I had to save my email I wrote yesterday and email it to you today...
It was wonderful to receive emails from the Southern Cali coast. Mom and Dad I'm glad that you finally got your long awaited vacation...you deserve some time off!!
This week I have been working on a recording to send to the fam (thank you dad for the tapes, batteries, and recorder). I wanted the family to see what a week in Sister Hogge's life is like. It has been fun to record a short message of my experiences each day. It helps me be accountable for each minute of the day! ; )
Zone conference is tomorrow. I'll let you know how it goes in my next email. One of the assistants called me yesterday and asked if I would sing at the conference. They want me to sing about baptism, the Holy Ghost, the Restoration, or Jesus Christ. I will be singing the usual "Guide Me To Thee." It's simple and always brings the Spirit to meetings. I am excited for my first zone conference. I will also be singing at the VC training meeting this week on Friday morning.
The Christlike attribute that I am working on this week is diligence. The change and vigorous ways of missionary life have been a struggle for me, but I am grateful for what the Lord has been teaching me. I have been praying for the Lord to purify and sanctify my heart that I may give all to him. A few days ago I read Helaman 3:35. Helaman tells us that in order for the Lord to purify and sanctify our hearts we must yield our hearts to the Lord. I know that as we do this we become true followers of Christ.
I have finished reading the BOM with the mission. It has been a fun activity. I have come closer to the Lord as I have studied his words and the words of the prophets. I love the BOM!!
Maylek - Maylek has a baptismal date set for April 15th. YEAH!! We taught him the first lesson this past week and committed him to be baptized...he was very excited! Sister Moorman (Maylek's grandmother) was completely beaming and so happy! He is going to be an AMAZING member of the church. I am so happy for him and for the example that he is not only to his family, but to his future family. At the end of the lesson he asked us "Why are you so happy?" I have been touched by his sincere desires to follow Christ at 8 years old. He is wonderful!
Lyn - We taught Lyn again yesterday. Instead of teaching her the 2nd lesson we felt the Spirit guide us in teaching her about coming unto Christ. Lyn struggles with forgiveness. She has a hard life, much has happened to her, and although she loves us, she has a lot of hate in her heart. We taught her of Christ's invitation to "Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest" (Matt. 11:28-30). We helped her liken these scriptures to herself. She recognized the importance of putting her burdens on the Lord by forgiving and loving others. It was a beautiful lesson. We wrote down three ways that she can "Come unto Christ": daily scripture study, daily prayer, and attending church every week. She felt so much peace and happiness. She is coming to church on Sunday!! We also shared with her about Christ visiting the Americas and blessing the little children (3 Ne. 17). She said the closing prayer for the lesson and it was beautiful and heartfelt. She will be baptized!!
The work is going well and I am absolutely loving working so hard that I'm completely exhausted by the end of the day. It is wonderful. I am doing well and when I struggle I rely on the Lord's strength. He is the only way!
I love being a servant of the Lord!
Love, Sister Hogge
p.s. Mom
- A red and a black skirt would be great. They can have ANY kind of texture etc. Light colored skirts for spring and summer would be wonderful too. Thank you so much, I know you are so busy!
- Could you send me a copy of the duet "Did You Think To Pray?" - thank you!
Dad
- The DearElder letters are great! Whatever works for you. I'm not sure if it gets here sooner than the regular mail, but thank you for your letters.
- In Either 4:1 it talks about the brother of Jared not being able to reveal what he saw to others until after Christ came to the earth and manifested himself in the flesh etc...why? I don't know if this makes sense, I don't have my BOM with me.
Grandma Hogge - thank you for the package...a letter is coming to you in the mail!
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
14 March 2007
Dear family and friends,
Thank you for telling me about Sarah. Sar, you'll be in my prayers...thank heavens for the resurrection!
Well, this past week was a good week. The weather yesterday and today has been absolutely gorgeous! So warm! We taught Larry and Florida again. They are both still closed to the BOM, Florida more than Larry, but I love them. We are deciding this week what we should do with them. It's pretty sad that we will have to drop Florida soon...at least we planted a good seed. Larry, on the other hand, I think we will work with for another few visits. Larry reminds me so much of Dad. He is very intelligent and will often use big words I don't understand, but the Lord has blessed S. Everts and I with a sweet spirit that calms our hearts and our minds when we teach him. He doesn't believe in knowing the BOM is true through "his feelings", but what we want him to understand that they "feelings" from the Spirit are not his own feelings they are from God testifying to him that the things we are teaching him are true. However, to know of these things for himself he has to pray and ask God with a sincere heart and real intent. He is too prideful to do so...but he will and when he does he will be baptized.
I have learned much about pride and humility. I found myself struggling with my attitude this past week. I am so prideful! I am learning to have a good attitude about tracting. I think it's a waste of time, when really it's a good way to find new investigators. I have learned that humbling ourselves is often better than the Lord humbling us, but I think that the Lord definitely had a hand in humbling me this past week. Being an effective missionary has a lot to do with the missionary's attitude. I pray every day to have a good attitude so that I can be an effective tool in the Lord's hands.
We also taught two new investigators this past week. Scott is wonderful! He was recently divorced, is 55 with an 8 year old daughter and is incredibly humble. He is the first white man I've taught! He is very teachable and he is searching for truth, golden! We taught him the first lesson this last Friday and at the end of the lesson we had a kneeling prayer and we told him that we knew that the Lord would have him pray (Language of Faith). He said the most beautiful prayer. During the lesson my whole soul was overwhelmed with joy, the kind of joy that Alma talks about in Alma 29. It's a beautiful kind of joy. I have learned that the difficulties and the joys of a missionary can only be experienced by a missionary. It's wonderful and I can feel the Lord molding me through my love for the people. We will be teaching Scott again soon.
We also taught Lyn Walker a grandma from Jamaica. She loves the missionares and she loves to talk! It took us 1 1/2 hours to teach her the first lesson. She is a humble woman who loves the Lord and needs a church to attend. We are taking her to the R.S. enrichment this Friday. We just met her two days ago. I love Lyn! The Lord is blessing Sister Everts and I!
President and Sister Price came to speak at a member's home in our ward this last Sunday. They are firesides we have each month called "cottage meetings". We invite recent converts and investigators to learn more about the gospel. It was fun to visit with the Prices. Sister Price wants to sing a duet with me and I am excited to do so! Mom, I might need some duet pieces.
Anyway, we were eating at Sister Robison's house, a member from the White Oak Ward and she had an accent so I asked her where she was from. She responded that she was from Argentina. I decided to ask if she knew any Borens and she said she did. I told her of my dad's connection to the Borens and she told me that she loved the Borens and practically grew up with them. Sister Robison and I have a special bond now! ; ) Pretty cool, huh Dad!
As we have taught people from many different countries I have learned that many of the Africans have moved to the U.S. because of wars in their countries. We are so blessed to be living in America. I love listening to the people we teach tell us of their stories and reading the BOM in their own native language.
Our ward just began the new ward mission plan. It's a great plan and the members are now praying for the full-time missionaries by name, what a blessing! I have learned how valuable the members are!
I love being a missionary, I love the people of DC, and I love all of you so much!
With Love, Sister Hogge
p.s. Thank you for all of your letters and love. They mean so much to me! My new mission president is Al Mansell from the National Realters Association.
p.s. Dad, is agency an eternal law? Does God give us our agency?
Thank you for telling me about Sarah. Sar, you'll be in my prayers...thank heavens for the resurrection!
Well, this past week was a good week. The weather yesterday and today has been absolutely gorgeous! So warm! We taught Larry and Florida again. They are both still closed to the BOM, Florida more than Larry, but I love them. We are deciding this week what we should do with them. It's pretty sad that we will have to drop Florida soon...at least we planted a good seed. Larry, on the other hand, I think we will work with for another few visits. Larry reminds me so much of Dad. He is very intelligent and will often use big words I don't understand, but the Lord has blessed S. Everts and I with a sweet spirit that calms our hearts and our minds when we teach him. He doesn't believe in knowing the BOM is true through "his feelings", but what we want him to understand that they "feelings" from the Spirit are not his own feelings they are from God testifying to him that the things we are teaching him are true. However, to know of these things for himself he has to pray and ask God with a sincere heart and real intent. He is too prideful to do so...but he will and when he does he will be baptized.
I have learned much about pride and humility. I found myself struggling with my attitude this past week. I am so prideful! I am learning to have a good attitude about tracting. I think it's a waste of time, when really it's a good way to find new investigators. I have learned that humbling ourselves is often better than the Lord humbling us, but I think that the Lord definitely had a hand in humbling me this past week. Being an effective missionary has a lot to do with the missionary's attitude. I pray every day to have a good attitude so that I can be an effective tool in the Lord's hands.
We also taught two new investigators this past week. Scott is wonderful! He was recently divorced, is 55 with an 8 year old daughter and is incredibly humble. He is the first white man I've taught! He is very teachable and he is searching for truth, golden! We taught him the first lesson this last Friday and at the end of the lesson we had a kneeling prayer and we told him that we knew that the Lord would have him pray (Language of Faith). He said the most beautiful prayer. During the lesson my whole soul was overwhelmed with joy, the kind of joy that Alma talks about in Alma 29. It's a beautiful kind of joy. I have learned that the difficulties and the joys of a missionary can only be experienced by a missionary. It's wonderful and I can feel the Lord molding me through my love for the people. We will be teaching Scott again soon.
We also taught Lyn Walker a grandma from Jamaica. She loves the missionares and she loves to talk! It took us 1 1/2 hours to teach her the first lesson. She is a humble woman who loves the Lord and needs a church to attend. We are taking her to the R.S. enrichment this Friday. We just met her two days ago. I love Lyn! The Lord is blessing Sister Everts and I!
President and Sister Price came to speak at a member's home in our ward this last Sunday. They are firesides we have each month called "cottage meetings". We invite recent converts and investigators to learn more about the gospel. It was fun to visit with the Prices. Sister Price wants to sing a duet with me and I am excited to do so! Mom, I might need some duet pieces.
Anyway, we were eating at Sister Robison's house, a member from the White Oak Ward and she had an accent so I asked her where she was from. She responded that she was from Argentina. I decided to ask if she knew any Borens and she said she did. I told her of my dad's connection to the Borens and she told me that she loved the Borens and practically grew up with them. Sister Robison and I have a special bond now! ; ) Pretty cool, huh Dad!
As we have taught people from many different countries I have learned that many of the Africans have moved to the U.S. because of wars in their countries. We are so blessed to be living in America. I love listening to the people we teach tell us of their stories and reading the BOM in their own native language.
Our ward just began the new ward mission plan. It's a great plan and the members are now praying for the full-time missionaries by name, what a blessing! I have learned how valuable the members are!
I love being a missionary, I love the people of DC, and I love all of you so much!
With Love, Sister Hogge
p.s. Thank you for all of your letters and love. They mean so much to me! My new mission president is Al Mansell from the National Realters Association.
p.s. Dad, is agency an eternal law? Does God give us our agency?
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
7 March 2007
Dear Family,
Thank you for the emails. I have to admit that although emails are nice, I love letters so much more than emails!
Life is great here in DC. It has been extremely cold lately...the kind of wet cold that hurts. I've never felt a cold like this! The wind cuts right through me and it hurts. I've found funny ways to keep myself warm, especailly when I'm out and about. Yesterday I think my toes almost fell off!!
Big news...our new mission president is going to be President Mansell. He was the President of the Utah Senate. I'm excited for the news, but I have come to love Pres. and Sis. Price. Mom, don't worry about coming to the VC. The VC director told me that he wants me to be there. I'm soooo excited! And yes, I was standing outside of the door when Elder Child called you. I just wanted to keep listening to him talk to you. It was wonderful!
I have come to really enjoy working at the VC. I especially enjoy working nights. With the temple lights and the reflection of the Christus on the window it's beautiful. I love everything about the VC. I recently gave a tour to a couple from North Carolina. They are not members and had lots of great questions. After a tour they requested a BOM and I was very excited! We took a picture of me and the referral card they filled out. We call that golden! Working in the VC is awesome!! They play lots of MoTab music in the VC and the other day I heard the song "When you're worried and you can't sleep, just count your blessing instead of sheep and you'll fall asleep counting your blessings..." I thought of my favorite movie and being with my family at Christmas time. It was a nice experience.
Two days ago I had my first interview with Pres. Price. As we talked he told me that Satan works to get missionaries down by making them feel inadequate or unworthy. It's so true!! When those feelings come I've learned to quickly put them aside and to focus on the Lord and the people I'm teaching. Missions are hard! You think you can help bring souls to Christ by simply smiling and sharing your sweet testimony, but most of the time it's much, much more than that! It's difficult to describe the feelings of a missionary...ups and downs. I love it because I know the Lord needs me and I simply keep going.
Most of my area is filled with people from Africa. I love Africans because they are nice and humble. I learn so much from them. We are still teaching Florida, but she is not progressing. Her heart is closed to the BOM and she isn't sincerely asking if it's true. It's sad to see her not keep commitments, but we still love her and hope that if anything we've planted a seed.
Today it's snowing. Our cars are grounded today, but luckily we got to the Library to email our families before we were officially grounded. The only exception is for sisters who have to travel to the VC. We're taking the Yemens to the VC tonight. They are a wonderful family and I'm excited for their future as members of the church.
I have learned to be optimistic and to use the language of faith. Instead of saying, "if you get baptized...," we say, "when you get baptized..." etc. It works! People make and keep commitments when missionaries use the language of faith.
I have learned to appreciate member's involvement in missionary work. We are blessed with a wonderful ward and we are working hard to get the members more involved. Members are wonderful and I would encourage all of you to help the missionaries.
I am loving life in the mission field. I go to bed absolutely exhausted and it feels great to know that I am working so hard, but I can be better. I love the people in DC. I love their humility and kindness. I am learning so much from them. I am trusting in the Lord now more than ever and I am happy.
I loved the emails, thank you. I especially love short emails and long letters. I love being a missionary and I love all of you so much!
Love, Sister Hogge
MW
Thank you for the emails. I have to admit that although emails are nice, I love letters so much more than emails!
Life is great here in DC. It has been extremely cold lately...the kind of wet cold that hurts. I've never felt a cold like this! The wind cuts right through me and it hurts. I've found funny ways to keep myself warm, especailly when I'm out and about. Yesterday I think my toes almost fell off!!
Big news...our new mission president is going to be President Mansell. He was the President of the Utah Senate. I'm excited for the news, but I have come to love Pres. and Sis. Price. Mom, don't worry about coming to the VC. The VC director told me that he wants me to be there. I'm soooo excited! And yes, I was standing outside of the door when Elder Child called you. I just wanted to keep listening to him talk to you. It was wonderful!
I have come to really enjoy working at the VC. I especially enjoy working nights. With the temple lights and the reflection of the Christus on the window it's beautiful. I love everything about the VC. I recently gave a tour to a couple from North Carolina. They are not members and had lots of great questions. After a tour they requested a BOM and I was very excited! We took a picture of me and the referral card they filled out. We call that golden! Working in the VC is awesome!! They play lots of MoTab music in the VC and the other day I heard the song "When you're worried and you can't sleep, just count your blessing instead of sheep and you'll fall asleep counting your blessings..." I thought of my favorite movie and being with my family at Christmas time. It was a nice experience.
Two days ago I had my first interview with Pres. Price. As we talked he told me that Satan works to get missionaries down by making them feel inadequate or unworthy. It's so true!! When those feelings come I've learned to quickly put them aside and to focus on the Lord and the people I'm teaching. Missions are hard! You think you can help bring souls to Christ by simply smiling and sharing your sweet testimony, but most of the time it's much, much more than that! It's difficult to describe the feelings of a missionary...ups and downs. I love it because I know the Lord needs me and I simply keep going.
Most of my area is filled with people from Africa. I love Africans because they are nice and humble. I learn so much from them. We are still teaching Florida, but she is not progressing. Her heart is closed to the BOM and she isn't sincerely asking if it's true. It's sad to see her not keep commitments, but we still love her and hope that if anything we've planted a seed.
Today it's snowing. Our cars are grounded today, but luckily we got to the Library to email our families before we were officially grounded. The only exception is for sisters who have to travel to the VC. We're taking the Yemens to the VC tonight. They are a wonderful family and I'm excited for their future as members of the church.
I have learned to be optimistic and to use the language of faith. Instead of saying, "if you get baptized...," we say, "when you get baptized..." etc. It works! People make and keep commitments when missionaries use the language of faith.
I have learned to appreciate member's involvement in missionary work. We are blessed with a wonderful ward and we are working hard to get the members more involved. Members are wonderful and I would encourage all of you to help the missionaries.
I am loving life in the mission field. I go to bed absolutely exhausted and it feels great to know that I am working so hard, but I can be better. I love the people in DC. I love their humility and kindness. I am learning so much from them. I am trusting in the Lord now more than ever and I am happy.
I loved the emails, thank you. I especially love short emails and long letters. I love being a missionary and I love all of you so much!
Love, Sister Hogge
MW
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