My wonderful family and friends!!!
This past week has been absolutely fantastic! My heart is so full I think it just might burst. We have seen countless miracles this week. I really feel that through all the miracles the Lord is showing me why He still needs me here an extra transfer.
Miracle #1 - Veronica has accepted to be baptized August 17th. She has become so much more converted to the gospel and is still a little hesitant about baptism, but she will be fine. We plan to help her with her main concerns at the end of the week. She is so good and she loves God so much. She really wants to do what is right, but it's a struggle to break away from tradition and from being comfortable.
Miracle #2 - We got a phone call from some elders in the Baltimore mission telling us about Danella. They have been teaching her for a few weeks and she has come to church 7 times! But recently they found that she is not in their ward or mission boundaries! Danella is from Brazil (perfect for Sister Garre) and she loves the gospel! She has already been taught many of the lessons. She was introduced to the church by a friend and has loved it from the beginning. Last night the elders had their last appointment with her before they would pass her on to us. They called us just after the appointment last night and told us that she set her own baptismal date for August 17th! We were thrilled! We have talked to her many times on the phone and are excited to finally meet her. Tender mercy from the Lord!
Miracle #3 - We finally had an appointment with David. We've had a few appointments with David before but he never showed, so this was his last chance. We found him and GQ'd him right in front of his apartment building when I was with Sisters Baxter and Cardoso. In order to meet in his home we had to have another woman with us. So, we invited a senior sister, Sister Kearns. They live in the same apartment building as David. When we got to the senior sisters' apartment to finalize the lesson we found that there would be a brand new senior sister also coming with us, Sister Ellis, and that this would be her first lesson. I prayed so hard that David would be home so Sister Ellis could have a good experience. When we walked out of their apartment to find David's apartment, we found that he lived right next door to them and he was home, thank you Heavenly Father! We taught a beautiful first lesson. At first David didn't seem too focused, but once we began teaching about the Restoration with Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon, he completely changed. The Spirit was so incredibly strong! A light came into his eyes. Sweet Sister Ellis shared her conversion story and we were all deeply touched. At the end of the lesson we all knelt in prayer and invited David to pray. In his prayer he thanked Heavenly Father for bringing us to him. He told Heavenly Father that he wasn't expecting any of this and that he was so happy. We invited him to prepare for baptism on August 17th. When we returned to the senior sisters' apartment the sweet senior sisters wept together and all of our hearts were filled. There is nothing like this work. I feel like Ammon in Alma 26 "this is my life and my joy".
There were many other miracles that happened this week...too many to list. "I cannot say the smallest part that I feel". I have never felt this way and I'm so grateful that I stayed to witness the Lord's hand in my life and in the lives of others. We have been the answers to so many prayers this week. I always want to be an instrument in the Lord's hands and I always want to feel this way. Thankfully, we have made special covenants with our Heavenly Father to help us always feel this way. Thank you for your prayers. I can feel the strength of your prayers and love. I am so happy.
All my love, Sister Hogge
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
23 July 2008
Dearest family and friends!
First of all ...I want to send my love to Erin and Heather! (Sister Snelson and Sister Baxter) I love you both soooo incredibly much and I hope to write you both today. I loved hearing from the both of you and I miss you terribly, but I know that there is so much good that you're doing now that you're home. Keep me posted. You are both in my prayers every day! Luvs!
This past week has been yet another amazing week! I had my last zone conference last Thursday. One of the assistants spoke on three ways that we can continue to be successful missionaries: 1. Stay worthy of the Spirit. 2. Testify boldly of Joseph Smith, be a light unto the world. 3. Read the Book of Mormon again and again and again. I felt that it was such wonderful advice for after my mission as well. I felt grateful to receive such strong answers to my prayers during the conference. At the end we sang the mission song together and I just about cried...tear my heart out! I love serving the Lord and I will miss zone conferences with all of the missionaries.
Sunday was an incredibly spiritual day! The elders had a baptism and two of our investigators came, Veronica and Laura. The Spirit was strong and Veronica and Laura felt more comfortable and more willing to commit after this experience. I love how the Spirit changes people! By the way, I heard that Roland (from Quince Orchard) was baptized on Sunday! Woohoo! Finally! I was so glad to hear that he had made such an essential step in his eternal progression. I'm excited for his progress and future!
I continue to see the reasons why the Lord has needed me to extend every single day! The Lord has confirmed it to me over and over again and I'm so grateful! I feel so needed here and I love it!
Earlier today the "dying" missionaries went to Arlington Cemetery with President and Sister Mansell. It was a beautiful day, a bit hot and humid, but nicely overcast. The entire time we were there all I could think about is when we came years ago. It felt different now. I felt like I understood everything so much more. My favorite part of the entire trip was The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and watching the changing of the guards. On the tomb it reads, "Here rests in honored glory an American Soldier known but to God". I felt my heart swell within me as I read such powerful words. I know that God is our loving Heavenly Father; He knows us. I feel so grateful that our country was founded on such strong religious and hopeful principles. I really enjoyed being with all of the missionaries. I feel that I have made some life long friends.
Tomorrow is a very exciting day. It's my 18 month anniversary. Now I'm going into "elder time". To celebrate I think I might dress up as an elder! Most importantly, tomorrow is Mom's birthday! Happy Birthday Mom! I've sent a card for you in the mail.
Well, through the somewhat diffcult times this past week life continues to be amazing and wonderful! I am so happy here and I have a strong desire to stay completely focused and strong to the end! I feel that it is so important to bloom where I have been planted and to keep blooming as much as I can. I love, love, love serving the Lord and pray that we will continue to recognize His hand in our lives and see miracles! May we all recognize the miracles this week!
All my love, Sister (almost Elder) Hogge
First of all ...I want to send my love to Erin and Heather! (Sister Snelson and Sister Baxter) I love you both soooo incredibly much and I hope to write you both today. I loved hearing from the both of you and I miss you terribly, but I know that there is so much good that you're doing now that you're home. Keep me posted. You are both in my prayers every day! Luvs!
This past week has been yet another amazing week! I had my last zone conference last Thursday. One of the assistants spoke on three ways that we can continue to be successful missionaries: 1. Stay worthy of the Spirit. 2. Testify boldly of Joseph Smith, be a light unto the world. 3. Read the Book of Mormon again and again and again. I felt that it was such wonderful advice for after my mission as well. I felt grateful to receive such strong answers to my prayers during the conference. At the end we sang the mission song together and I just about cried...tear my heart out! I love serving the Lord and I will miss zone conferences with all of the missionaries.
Sunday was an incredibly spiritual day! The elders had a baptism and two of our investigators came, Veronica and Laura. The Spirit was strong and Veronica and Laura felt more comfortable and more willing to commit after this experience. I love how the Spirit changes people! By the way, I heard that Roland (from Quince Orchard) was baptized on Sunday! Woohoo! Finally! I was so glad to hear that he had made such an essential step in his eternal progression. I'm excited for his progress and future!
I continue to see the reasons why the Lord has needed me to extend every single day! The Lord has confirmed it to me over and over again and I'm so grateful! I feel so needed here and I love it!
Earlier today the "dying" missionaries went to Arlington Cemetery with President and Sister Mansell. It was a beautiful day, a bit hot and humid, but nicely overcast. The entire time we were there all I could think about is when we came years ago. It felt different now. I felt like I understood everything so much more. My favorite part of the entire trip was The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and watching the changing of the guards. On the tomb it reads, "Here rests in honored glory an American Soldier known but to God". I felt my heart swell within me as I read such powerful words. I know that God is our loving Heavenly Father; He knows us. I feel so grateful that our country was founded on such strong religious and hopeful principles. I really enjoyed being with all of the missionaries. I feel that I have made some life long friends.
Tomorrow is a very exciting day. It's my 18 month anniversary. Now I'm going into "elder time". To celebrate I think I might dress up as an elder! Most importantly, tomorrow is Mom's birthday! Happy Birthday Mom! I've sent a card for you in the mail.
Well, through the somewhat diffcult times this past week life continues to be amazing and wonderful! I am so happy here and I have a strong desire to stay completely focused and strong to the end! I feel that it is so important to bloom where I have been planted and to keep blooming as much as I can. I love, love, love serving the Lord and pray that we will continue to recognize His hand in our lives and see miracles! May we all recognize the miracles this week!
All my love, Sister (almost Elder) Hogge
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
16 July 2008
Hello lovely friends and family,
It has been a wonderful week getting to know my new companion and learning what it is that the Lord would have me learn this transfer. Oh, I have much to learn, but I think that the Lord has much to teach me about humility, being willing to compromise, and having the courage to be light-hearted. Actually, I have recently been praying for the Lord to give me experiences to help me be more light-hearted. He has definitely answered my prayers. Just two days ago I ate a bug (unintentionally) while I was GQing two younger girls. It was hilarious and it tasted awful! Later in the evening I taught Sister Garre how to catch fire flies and we probably looked crazy dancing around the grass. I am learning that the Lord definitely has a sense of humor and that light-heartedness is indeed a spiritual gift we can pray for.
This past Sunday I prayed so hard for our investigators to come to church. Summertime means lots of vacationing. When we got to church we found that two different members had brought a friend and a sister who both were not members of the church...yet. I know that the Lord answers our prayers and I'm grateful that I can trust Him and that He understands my concerns.
Sunday was more spiritual than usual for me. In Relief Society we talked about how the church has grown. As I sat in class and thought about the Lord's work, how it has filled the earth, and how I have been able to be a part of it, my heart was filled. Sensations of gratitude and feelings of zeal overcame me as I thought about the cause of truth that we are all involved in. So often doing this work has filled my heart and my soul with so much joy, but today I felt my perspective widen and that for a few brief moments I had a glimpse of eternity. At that moment I knew that this work is a lot bigger than I realized and that I have had the great privilege to be a part of it. I thought about "The Standard of Truth", "no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing!" With a more eternal perspective the work is so much more fun! I feel that I've become such an old softy. My feelings have become more tender as I have thought about how blessed I have been to serve the Lord.
Jade is doing well. She received the gift of the Holy Ghost this last Sunday. Bishop Davenport confirmed her. She is different from when we first met her. She is getting her life together and she feels more confident in who she is as a daughter of a lovng Heavenly Father. I love seeing how the gospel and the Atonement of Jesus Christ change people. She smiles more and she has a beautiful light in her eyes. I'm so happy for her. This coming Sunday she has been asked to speak at Immanuel's baptism. Immanuel is a guy the elders have been working with. Jade is excited to share her testimony about baptism. I love this church and how it helps everyone feel welcomed and loved. I hope that we can all be better to love those around us, especially those who may seen different from us. I have developed a great love for my brothers and sisters.
Next week President and Sister Mansell will be taking all of the "dying" missionaries to Arlington. It will be a special trip and a very special experience for all of us. I am excited to go. When I performed there 7 or 8 years ago I would have never thought that my next visit there would be as a missionary. I am grateful for my country and for those who sacrificed themselves so that we could have the freedom that we have. I'll be sure to let you know how it goes.
We continue to find, find, and find. We are teaching, and one of our investigators, Veronica, has a baptismal date for August 3rd. Please keep her and all of our investigators in your prayers. I have the faith that they can progress and now they need to have the faith. I love this work!
Well, I am happy and healthy and I love loving people! Hope all is well with you.
All my love, Sister Hogge
It has been a wonderful week getting to know my new companion and learning what it is that the Lord would have me learn this transfer. Oh, I have much to learn, but I think that the Lord has much to teach me about humility, being willing to compromise, and having the courage to be light-hearted. Actually, I have recently been praying for the Lord to give me experiences to help me be more light-hearted. He has definitely answered my prayers. Just two days ago I ate a bug (unintentionally) while I was GQing two younger girls. It was hilarious and it tasted awful! Later in the evening I taught Sister Garre how to catch fire flies and we probably looked crazy dancing around the grass. I am learning that the Lord definitely has a sense of humor and that light-heartedness is indeed a spiritual gift we can pray for.
This past Sunday I prayed so hard for our investigators to come to church. Summertime means lots of vacationing. When we got to church we found that two different members had brought a friend and a sister who both were not members of the church...yet. I know that the Lord answers our prayers and I'm grateful that I can trust Him and that He understands my concerns.
Sunday was more spiritual than usual for me. In Relief Society we talked about how the church has grown. As I sat in class and thought about the Lord's work, how it has filled the earth, and how I have been able to be a part of it, my heart was filled. Sensations of gratitude and feelings of zeal overcame me as I thought about the cause of truth that we are all involved in. So often doing this work has filled my heart and my soul with so much joy, but today I felt my perspective widen and that for a few brief moments I had a glimpse of eternity. At that moment I knew that this work is a lot bigger than I realized and that I have had the great privilege to be a part of it. I thought about "The Standard of Truth", "no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing!" With a more eternal perspective the work is so much more fun! I feel that I've become such an old softy. My feelings have become more tender as I have thought about how blessed I have been to serve the Lord.
Jade is doing well. She received the gift of the Holy Ghost this last Sunday. Bishop Davenport confirmed her. She is different from when we first met her. She is getting her life together and she feels more confident in who she is as a daughter of a lovng Heavenly Father. I love seeing how the gospel and the Atonement of Jesus Christ change people. She smiles more and she has a beautiful light in her eyes. I'm so happy for her. This coming Sunday she has been asked to speak at Immanuel's baptism. Immanuel is a guy the elders have been working with. Jade is excited to share her testimony about baptism. I love this church and how it helps everyone feel welcomed and loved. I hope that we can all be better to love those around us, especially those who may seen different from us. I have developed a great love for my brothers and sisters.
Next week President and Sister Mansell will be taking all of the "dying" missionaries to Arlington. It will be a special trip and a very special experience for all of us. I am excited to go. When I performed there 7 or 8 years ago I would have never thought that my next visit there would be as a missionary. I am grateful for my country and for those who sacrificed themselves so that we could have the freedom that we have. I'll be sure to let you know how it goes.
We continue to find, find, and find. We are teaching, and one of our investigators, Veronica, has a baptismal date for August 3rd. Please keep her and all of our investigators in your prayers. I have the faith that they can progress and now they need to have the faith. I love this work!
Well, I am happy and healthy and I love loving people! Hope all is well with you.
All my love, Sister Hogge
Thursday, July 10, 2008
10 July 2008
Dearest family and friends,
My 4th of July was pretty quiet. We were at the VC and then planned for the week. After planning we went to dinner at Chevy's with our roommates. We had a wonderful time together celebrating the 4th. The next day we saw a great fireworks show near our apartments...a tender mercy from the Lord. It felt good to have the firework experience again...I miss that.
Well, transfers have come and gone. I have a new companion, her name is Sister Garre. She is Brazilian, go figure! She is my third Brazilian companion. She is a little ball of fire, vibrant, filled with enthusiasm, energy, and commitment to the Lord. We will find a great balance in the work together and I think that we will complement one another nicely. I am grateful.
Jade is doing well. She was supposed to be confirmed on Sunday, but got to church late...so we will be doing the confirmation next Sunday. It's always so nerve racking waiting in sacrament meeting for the investigators, recent converts, or less actives to get to church. Jade's heart is somewhat heavy, please pray for her. She has been through so much and her strength amazes me. I know that the Atonement will help heal her and she knows it too.
We continue to find new investigators who are prepared. I feel blessed to be in such a fantastic area where people really are willing, ready, and waiting to receive the truth. I know that we will continue to see miracles this transfer as we have faith in the Lord's ablilites to help us and as we work hard, definitely a life lesson learned. I am grateful for faith and how I have learned to develop my own faith in Jesus Christ.
I loved Joey's last letter about being a "lucky duck". I think it's a great concept that I can apply for my last transfer in the mission. It is so important to remember our blessings and to be grateful. I, too, will think every day why I'm such a "lucky duck".
Yesterday was somewhat of a difficult day for me. I said goodbye or "see you later" to many of my dearest sister missionary friends leaving the mission field. It was hard and I just felt sick to my stomach, but I prayed to know that the Lord still needed me here serving Him. We were on shift last night at the VC. While we were on shift a sweet older couple came into the VC. I gave them a tour about eternal families and temples. They were so impressed with the concept that they accepted to receive the missionaries. Later in the evening Asetia, a convert from Quince Orchard, with all of her children came into the VC. I gave them a Christus tour and I was so touched by how Asetia's testimony has grown and how converted she is. She was happy to see me as well and expressed her thanks for helping her be baptized. At the end of the evening Erica, a convert from DC 2nd, came in to see me. She told me that there were many exciting things happening in her life and some trials and I was the first she wanted to see. As we talked about her conversion and how much she has grown since then my heart was filled. By the end of the night, I felt that the Lord had answered my prayers in abundance and I felt so grateful that He still needed me here.
I know that this transfer will be filled with miracles, new relationships, and growth. I am so glad that I am here and that I can give my whole heart and all my time to the Lord. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. I love the Lord and I love serving Him and His children.
All my love, Sister Hogge
My 4th of July was pretty quiet. We were at the VC and then planned for the week. After planning we went to dinner at Chevy's with our roommates. We had a wonderful time together celebrating the 4th. The next day we saw a great fireworks show near our apartments...a tender mercy from the Lord. It felt good to have the firework experience again...I miss that.
Well, transfers have come and gone. I have a new companion, her name is Sister Garre. She is Brazilian, go figure! She is my third Brazilian companion. She is a little ball of fire, vibrant, filled with enthusiasm, energy, and commitment to the Lord. We will find a great balance in the work together and I think that we will complement one another nicely. I am grateful.
Jade is doing well. She was supposed to be confirmed on Sunday, but got to church late...so we will be doing the confirmation next Sunday. It's always so nerve racking waiting in sacrament meeting for the investigators, recent converts, or less actives to get to church. Jade's heart is somewhat heavy, please pray for her. She has been through so much and her strength amazes me. I know that the Atonement will help heal her and she knows it too.
We continue to find new investigators who are prepared. I feel blessed to be in such a fantastic area where people really are willing, ready, and waiting to receive the truth. I know that we will continue to see miracles this transfer as we have faith in the Lord's ablilites to help us and as we work hard, definitely a life lesson learned. I am grateful for faith and how I have learned to develop my own faith in Jesus Christ.
I loved Joey's last letter about being a "lucky duck". I think it's a great concept that I can apply for my last transfer in the mission. It is so important to remember our blessings and to be grateful. I, too, will think every day why I'm such a "lucky duck".
Yesterday was somewhat of a difficult day for me. I said goodbye or "see you later" to many of my dearest sister missionary friends leaving the mission field. It was hard and I just felt sick to my stomach, but I prayed to know that the Lord still needed me here serving Him. We were on shift last night at the VC. While we were on shift a sweet older couple came into the VC. I gave them a tour about eternal families and temples. They were so impressed with the concept that they accepted to receive the missionaries. Later in the evening Asetia, a convert from Quince Orchard, with all of her children came into the VC. I gave them a Christus tour and I was so touched by how Asetia's testimony has grown and how converted she is. She was happy to see me as well and expressed her thanks for helping her be baptized. At the end of the evening Erica, a convert from DC 2nd, came in to see me. She told me that there were many exciting things happening in her life and some trials and I was the first she wanted to see. As we talked about her conversion and how much she has grown since then my heart was filled. By the end of the night, I felt that the Lord had answered my prayers in abundance and I felt so grateful that He still needed me here.
I know that this transfer will be filled with miracles, new relationships, and growth. I am so glad that I am here and that I can give my whole heart and all my time to the Lord. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. I love the Lord and I love serving Him and His children.
All my love, Sister Hogge
Thursday, July 3, 2008
3 July 2008
Happy 4th of July from the nation's Capitol!!
This past week has been one of the greatest weeks of my mission. So much good has happened and I feel that the Lord has taught me much through the special experiences that I have had.
This past Sunday Jade was baptized! It was one of the quickest processes to baptism that I have been a part of. We met, taught, and baptized her within 3 weeks. Her baptism was beautiful, and like most singles' wards, we had great support from the ward. I love the YSA's of the church and I admire their desire to bring others to Christ. It was a beautiful thing to watch Jade be baptized. She has been through awful trials, but I know that the Lord loves her and desires for her to come back to Him. She will be confirmed this next Sunday. Sisters Cardoso, Baxter, and I performed the song "This is the Chirst". The spirit was strong and hearts were filled.
Later that night we put on a musical fireside for the ward to bring friends to. We had the fireside at the Institute building and the theme was the Restoration. We used a song to portray each principle of the lesson and added a few testimonies here and there. The members of the ward were the performers and I was amazed with the talent in our ward! A few of the members composed or arranged music to fit the principle they had been given. When we had brought up the idea to have a musical fireside, the ward was somewhat hesitant because they weren't sure if anyone would come. We prayerd hard that it would be a success and that it would help us develop better relations with the ward...and sure enough God answered our prayers. Many people came to support and brought their friends. The Lord blessed us with a strong spirit as each performer bore testimony through music and the spoken word. After the fireside we had delicious refreshments specially made for such a special event. Everyone kept asking when the next fireside will be. It was a great success and we even received a new investigator. We were so happy! Our relationships with the ward members and with our bishop were strengthened and we felt such a great love for them. We hope that the missionaries and the members will continue the musical fireside as a new tradition for the ward.
A few days ago we went to the temple to attend the endowment and sealing of a young woman that Sister Baxter taught at the beginning of her mission. Words cannot express the feelings felt that day. We arrived early at the temple and decided to do some initiatories before the session. I had a very special experience as I performed initiatories. The endowment was beautiful and the sealing was incredible. As we sat together in the sealing room to watch them be sealed my heart felt overwhelmed. The moment that the sealer sealed them as an eternal family I knew that the work I have done and will do as a missionary is important, but the work that I will do with my husband and children is of most importance. I knew that there is no greater work to do. I feel that the mission has better prepared me to do that which is of most importance, love and serve my husband and children.
Today is the last P-day of the transfer and is Sister Baxter's last P-day altogether. I will miss her dearly. She has changed my life as we have served together. She has become a forever friend. I am grateful that we will be with those we love forever. It will be hard to see all those sisters whom I came out with leave, but I know that there is still so much work to do and so much to learn within my last transfer.
My heart is full and I am so grateful to be serving.
All my love, Sister Hogge
This past week has been one of the greatest weeks of my mission. So much good has happened and I feel that the Lord has taught me much through the special experiences that I have had.
This past Sunday Jade was baptized! It was one of the quickest processes to baptism that I have been a part of. We met, taught, and baptized her within 3 weeks. Her baptism was beautiful, and like most singles' wards, we had great support from the ward. I love the YSA's of the church and I admire their desire to bring others to Christ. It was a beautiful thing to watch Jade be baptized. She has been through awful trials, but I know that the Lord loves her and desires for her to come back to Him. She will be confirmed this next Sunday. Sisters Cardoso, Baxter, and I performed the song "This is the Chirst". The spirit was strong and hearts were filled.
Later that night we put on a musical fireside for the ward to bring friends to. We had the fireside at the Institute building and the theme was the Restoration. We used a song to portray each principle of the lesson and added a few testimonies here and there. The members of the ward were the performers and I was amazed with the talent in our ward! A few of the members composed or arranged music to fit the principle they had been given. When we had brought up the idea to have a musical fireside, the ward was somewhat hesitant because they weren't sure if anyone would come. We prayerd hard that it would be a success and that it would help us develop better relations with the ward...and sure enough God answered our prayers. Many people came to support and brought their friends. The Lord blessed us with a strong spirit as each performer bore testimony through music and the spoken word. After the fireside we had delicious refreshments specially made for such a special event. Everyone kept asking when the next fireside will be. It was a great success and we even received a new investigator. We were so happy! Our relationships with the ward members and with our bishop were strengthened and we felt such a great love for them. We hope that the missionaries and the members will continue the musical fireside as a new tradition for the ward.
A few days ago we went to the temple to attend the endowment and sealing of a young woman that Sister Baxter taught at the beginning of her mission. Words cannot express the feelings felt that day. We arrived early at the temple and decided to do some initiatories before the session. I had a very special experience as I performed initiatories. The endowment was beautiful and the sealing was incredible. As we sat together in the sealing room to watch them be sealed my heart felt overwhelmed. The moment that the sealer sealed them as an eternal family I knew that the work I have done and will do as a missionary is important, but the work that I will do with my husband and children is of most importance. I knew that there is no greater work to do. I feel that the mission has better prepared me to do that which is of most importance, love and serve my husband and children.
Today is the last P-day of the transfer and is Sister Baxter's last P-day altogether. I will miss her dearly. She has changed my life as we have served together. She has become a forever friend. I am grateful that we will be with those we love forever. It will be hard to see all those sisters whom I came out with leave, but I know that there is still so much work to do and so much to learn within my last transfer.
My heart is full and I am so grateful to be serving.
All my love, Sister Hogge
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
25 June 2008
Dearest loved ones,
It's amazing how quickly June has flown by. I am grateful for the gift of time and I feel that the Lord is blessing me with opportunities to learn how to manage His time better. I love the many lessons learned as a missionary.
Not too much has happened this past week. We continue to find many new investigators and we are constantly being put in their paths. It's interesting to see and to feel how much the Lord loves His children. If only they could know how much He cares...that's why we're here to help them see their divine potential. I've been thinking a lot lately about divine potential. I know that with God all things are possible, just as the angel said to Mary when she found that she would be the earthly mother of Jesus Christ. Because we have a spark of divinity in us we can have hope to know that we can do anything!
Recently I have been studying the New Testament. I love learning of our Savior and reading of His example and His perfect patience and love. I have been especially impressed with what He has taught us about faith. He was constantly teaching His disciples about faith, to fear not, but believe only. I never understood until now the tangible power of faith. It amazes me how patient our Lord is with us when we don't have faith. He understands that in order to grow we must use our own agency and choose whether or not to have faith in Him. As I have had faith in the work it has set a pattern of the need for faith throughout all stages of my life. May we all have hope and faith in our Savior.
We plan for Jade to be baptized this coming Sunday. Please keep her in your prayers. The week before the baptism is always difficult. She is really struggling with her self worth, family issues, etc. but we continue to encourage her with love. I know that the Lord loves her and that she will be baptized. We just need to help her continue progressing.
As we have been continuing to find I have been humbled. Just yesterday we saw a group of younger men who looked less than welcoming. However, as we swallowed our pride we found them to be good guys who "are searching for the truth but they know not where to find it". One of them was named Mr. Pain and he had a bracelet on that said "kill". As we taught them on the grass of their apartment complex we found them to really have a love for God. I know that God loves ALL of His children and that is why we must talk to everyone. I am also grateful for the Spirit and how it helps us discern when we are in good and bad situations. I am grateful to feel a portion of God's love for all of His children that we meet...a very real blessing.
This past week I had somewhat of a disappointing experience that was also a great learning experience for me. I am learning that the purest form of love is sacrifice. I am also learning how to be a better member by being willing to sacrifice for those that I may not even know. We have covenanted to do so. I think of the Willie and Martin Handcart companies and how their brethren sacrificed their own lives to run to their rescue. I hope and pray that we can have the same perspective and attitude for those in our own wards who may be lost sheep. I love what I am learning.
Well, we are off to DC today to have a tour of the Capitol! We are so excited! I always love going to DC. We might even do some shopping in Union Station while we're down there. The weather has been perfect for a trip to DC. I hope all is well with you. My prayers are with you. May the Lord bless you as you continue to sacrifice to build the kingdom in whatever capacity the Lord sees fit to bless you with.
Love, Sister Hogge
It's amazing how quickly June has flown by. I am grateful for the gift of time and I feel that the Lord is blessing me with opportunities to learn how to manage His time better. I love the many lessons learned as a missionary.
Not too much has happened this past week. We continue to find many new investigators and we are constantly being put in their paths. It's interesting to see and to feel how much the Lord loves His children. If only they could know how much He cares...that's why we're here to help them see their divine potential. I've been thinking a lot lately about divine potential. I know that with God all things are possible, just as the angel said to Mary when she found that she would be the earthly mother of Jesus Christ. Because we have a spark of divinity in us we can have hope to know that we can do anything!
Recently I have been studying the New Testament. I love learning of our Savior and reading of His example and His perfect patience and love. I have been especially impressed with what He has taught us about faith. He was constantly teaching His disciples about faith, to fear not, but believe only. I never understood until now the tangible power of faith. It amazes me how patient our Lord is with us when we don't have faith. He understands that in order to grow we must use our own agency and choose whether or not to have faith in Him. As I have had faith in the work it has set a pattern of the need for faith throughout all stages of my life. May we all have hope and faith in our Savior.
We plan for Jade to be baptized this coming Sunday. Please keep her in your prayers. The week before the baptism is always difficult. She is really struggling with her self worth, family issues, etc. but we continue to encourage her with love. I know that the Lord loves her and that she will be baptized. We just need to help her continue progressing.
As we have been continuing to find I have been humbled. Just yesterday we saw a group of younger men who looked less than welcoming. However, as we swallowed our pride we found them to be good guys who "are searching for the truth but they know not where to find it". One of them was named Mr. Pain and he had a bracelet on that said "kill". As we taught them on the grass of their apartment complex we found them to really have a love for God. I know that God loves ALL of His children and that is why we must talk to everyone. I am also grateful for the Spirit and how it helps us discern when we are in good and bad situations. I am grateful to feel a portion of God's love for all of His children that we meet...a very real blessing.
This past week I had somewhat of a disappointing experience that was also a great learning experience for me. I am learning that the purest form of love is sacrifice. I am also learning how to be a better member by being willing to sacrifice for those that I may not even know. We have covenanted to do so. I think of the Willie and Martin Handcart companies and how their brethren sacrificed their own lives to run to their rescue. I hope and pray that we can have the same perspective and attitude for those in our own wards who may be lost sheep. I love what I am learning.
Well, we are off to DC today to have a tour of the Capitol! We are so excited! I always love going to DC. We might even do some shopping in Union Station while we're down there. The weather has been perfect for a trip to DC. I hope all is well with you. My prayers are with you. May the Lord bless you as you continue to sacrifice to build the kingdom in whatever capacity the Lord sees fit to bless you with.
Love, Sister Hogge
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
18 June 2008
Dear family and friends,
Earlier today Sisters Baxter, Cardoso, and I along with a senior couple, the Worltons, went to Great Falls. It's a beautiful spot on the Potomac River where there are 80 foot falls. I felt like I was on vacation. It was so beautiful! I was in jeans, the air was fresh, the sky was blue, I could have been camping in Van Damme, complete paradise...pefect weather...which is a blessing with the crazy weather we've been having lately. These next few P-days are going to be packed with fun activities before Sister Baxter takes off back to England. We just have to live it up and have fun doing the Lord's work.
I have some exciting updates...
We found Joanna! We hadn't had contact with her for about 2 weeks, which can seem like an eternity for missionaries. Her phone hadn't been working. She is doing incredibly well. We met with her last night. She is still excited to be baptized and her family, especially her Grandma, has been supporting her. The support from her family is crucial because she really needs the family support. She is very close to her family. The spirit was so strong last night and we talked about remembering our Savior every day during sacrament meeting. We love her and we know that Heavenly Father needs us to stick with her.
Jade (pronounced Jaw-day) is also doing well. She continues to progress. When we last met with her we talked about the gospel of Jesus Christ. She mentioned that when she was baptized into her current church life was just the same, no peace. However, now she has already been feeling peace and comfort from her decision to be baptized. She talked about the importance of authority. She seems very hurt from things that have happened in the past. We continually try to help her stay positive and optimistic, it is a choice. We have already seen miraculous changes in Jade. One of the greatest joys of serving a mission is to see the Atonement mend wounds and heal hearts. She continues to prepare for her upcoming baptism.
Dorothy is one of three siblings from Ghana that we've been teaching. Dorothy, Alfred, and Cecilia are siblings and they love us! Dorothy seems to be progressing much faster than her siblings. She came to church this past Sunday and loved it! She said that this church really helps her know how to apply the gospel to her life. She feels that this church will help her progress, how true. She is so sweet and good to us. We feel at home whenever we visit and teach. Africans are courteous people. We gave her a baptismal date for July 6th.
I received news this past weekend that Asetia was baptized on Sunday. I began teaching Asetia with Sister Mukhlaash in Quince Orchard. I was so happy to hear that everything worked out! It's fun to be united in the Lord's work and as missionaries to just help each other along.
My feelings have been somewhat tender as I have thought about the many, many blessings the Lord has given us. He just pours and pours blessings upon us. I love my companions. We are so united and it makes the work fun and life happy. There is great power in unity. We also feel a great unity in our district. We have a large district of 5 companionships. We all have great respect and love for one another and we've set high goals that we know we can achieve. When we've out all day working hard and feeling exhuasted I just think of the other missionaries in our district and it gives me strength.
I am loving life!
"Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content." Phil. 4:11
With Love, Sister Hogge
Earlier today Sisters Baxter, Cardoso, and I along with a senior couple, the Worltons, went to Great Falls. It's a beautiful spot on the Potomac River where there are 80 foot falls. I felt like I was on vacation. It was so beautiful! I was in jeans, the air was fresh, the sky was blue, I could have been camping in Van Damme, complete paradise...pefect weather...which is a blessing with the crazy weather we've been having lately. These next few P-days are going to be packed with fun activities before Sister Baxter takes off back to England. We just have to live it up and have fun doing the Lord's work.
I have some exciting updates...
We found Joanna! We hadn't had contact with her for about 2 weeks, which can seem like an eternity for missionaries. Her phone hadn't been working. She is doing incredibly well. We met with her last night. She is still excited to be baptized and her family, especially her Grandma, has been supporting her. The support from her family is crucial because she really needs the family support. She is very close to her family. The spirit was so strong last night and we talked about remembering our Savior every day during sacrament meeting. We love her and we know that Heavenly Father needs us to stick with her.
Jade (pronounced Jaw-day) is also doing well. She continues to progress. When we last met with her we talked about the gospel of Jesus Christ. She mentioned that when she was baptized into her current church life was just the same, no peace. However, now she has already been feeling peace and comfort from her decision to be baptized. She talked about the importance of authority. She seems very hurt from things that have happened in the past. We continually try to help her stay positive and optimistic, it is a choice. We have already seen miraculous changes in Jade. One of the greatest joys of serving a mission is to see the Atonement mend wounds and heal hearts. She continues to prepare for her upcoming baptism.
Dorothy is one of three siblings from Ghana that we've been teaching. Dorothy, Alfred, and Cecilia are siblings and they love us! Dorothy seems to be progressing much faster than her siblings. She came to church this past Sunday and loved it! She said that this church really helps her know how to apply the gospel to her life. She feels that this church will help her progress, how true. She is so sweet and good to us. We feel at home whenever we visit and teach. Africans are courteous people. We gave her a baptismal date for July 6th.
I received news this past weekend that Asetia was baptized on Sunday. I began teaching Asetia with Sister Mukhlaash in Quince Orchard. I was so happy to hear that everything worked out! It's fun to be united in the Lord's work and as missionaries to just help each other along.
My feelings have been somewhat tender as I have thought about the many, many blessings the Lord has given us. He just pours and pours blessings upon us. I love my companions. We are so united and it makes the work fun and life happy. There is great power in unity. We also feel a great unity in our district. We have a large district of 5 companionships. We all have great respect and love for one another and we've set high goals that we know we can achieve. When we've out all day working hard and feeling exhuasted I just think of the other missionaries in our district and it gives me strength.
I am loving life!
"Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content." Phil. 4:11
With Love, Sister Hogge
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