Group Email

Hey everyone! Sorry, it has been so long since I reached out to you guys! I don't really have an excuse, so all I can say is sorry.

Well, a lot of stuff has happened since I last wrote an email. First, I got transferred to a new area called Logantown. My new companion is Elder Anderson, and he is such a STUD. He is also a great example to me, and I've definitely gained a lot of knowledge from him.

I only spent 6 weeks in my last area, and I've been thinking and pondering about why I was even sent there. That area was the least productive and most challenging area I've been in. I didn't really feel like I was making much of a difference. When I got news I was getting transferred, I was sad because I felt like I hadn't accomplished much. I didn't have a spiritual lesson the whole time I was there. But the LAST lesson we taught was with a woman named Mariamma. Her daughter was baptized earlier that day, and after the baptism, she agreed to meet with us. So we went there and read 3 Nephi 11. As we read, the spirit came with great power into each person's heart. Me and Elder Mulangu (my companion at the time) both testified of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon and the prophet Joseph Smith, and we both finished with our testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ. One of the best lessons I've taught on my mission. I think the Lord sent me to St. Paul for those 3 minutes, so that me and Elder Mulangu could help Mariamma feel and recognize the Spirit. I'm grateful that I was sent there, and looking back, I feel like I accomplished what the Lord wanted.

Well, as far as my new area goes, I'm enjoying it. We have a lot of people who are ready for baptism, but because they don't have a marriage certificate, it makes it very challenging to get them baptized. We will continue praying for the Lord to help them find the means to buy a certificate.

Also, a couple of weeks ago, I got my flight plans to return home. I couldn't believe it. At first, I was happy, but that night in the shower, I almost started to cry because it finally hit home that I would be leaving these people and their culture that I've come to love so much. I will be returning home on July 15th.

I love all of you so much. I love the Lord Jesus Christ dearly, and I'm grateful that I've been able to serve him these past 22 months. I will continue to work my heart out these last two months. Feel free to shoot me an email; I'd love to hear about you!

Elder Hiatt