Mom! I was glad to get a little update from you today knowing that tomorrow we will be talking but I am glad to hear that all is going well.
I have to tell you that today I went out and bought myself a sweet Christmas present. A new pair of running shoes! Ha ha it's great huh! I bought them on my personal card, but I just had to let you get excited for me! They are some nike lunarglider 3's. Let's just say they were a lot cheaper than buying a trip to the moon and back! This week I have had a great case of plantar fasciitis and I have realized that it is because I have been running with the worst pair of shoes that I have ever owned. They are torn and broken and my foot hits the concrete on every step, but I hope these new ones help!
I will save the great stories of the week for tomorrow! I can't wait to talk to you. Last night we were with the Bishop... An amazing man. Tonight we are going carolling and then to President's house and tomorrow in the daytime we will be with President again but then we will be coming back to the offices to do some skypage!! I am super excited. At first I wanted to just call, but President has convinced me to skype so here we go.
I love the Christmas season. It is filled with so much joy. It is sad being in a culture where the idea of the birth of our Lord and Savior has been replaced with bottles of fernet, cheap wine and goat meat, but I'm so greatful for our tradiciones and for all that I carry in my heart. I love you mom. See you tomorrow!!
Elder Burr
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Marc's email 12/19/2011
So you are just home alone livin the dream huh? How does the story go?
Not a creature is stirring not even a mouse or something like that?? I
will be getting my packages this thursday I think so I am not sure if
I have gotten my Christmas package or not. On thursday we have the
mission party thing. I will be skyping there at 4 your time or around
there so be ready. My skype name account thing is elderburr1 so if you
can add me or do whatever you have to do to be able to talk at 4 on
sunday. It should be good. I am excited to see you all and see how
different you all are. Just a year and a half older is all. I am also
really happy that Bryson is still on track to serve a mission. I am
happy to see that that whole family has turned around and they are
making the best out of the situation. I always knew they would. I love
Kyle he is such a good friend. I also love Quade and know he will be
there the 25 to talk. That man is also awesome. This last week was
pretty tight. We baptized the little America and she is so happy. On
thursday we had the opportunity to direct and speak in a funeral of an
Hermana that died. That was definately a first time event haha. I
never even knew the lady but my comp and I each gave a talk and sang a
special hymn. We song Nearer my God to Thee. We had several people
tell us it sounded like an angel choir. I dont believe it but I do
know the Spirit was very strong. After giving the talks the Hno of the
lady that died asked us to dedicate the gravesite so we did that as
well. Needless to say it was a learning event and it was an experience
that the Lord gave me to be able to excercise His Priesthood. I was
very happy that day. This week was just another awesome week in the
mission field. I loved it. I wont tell you any more details so Sunday
we can talk about some things. I look forward to talking with you mom
and family. I hope it all works out well. Merry Christmas to all from
Mexico! I love you all!
Elder Burr
Not a creature is stirring not even a mouse or something like that?? I
will be getting my packages this thursday I think so I am not sure if
I have gotten my Christmas package or not. On thursday we have the
mission party thing. I will be skyping there at 4 your time or around
there so be ready. My skype name account thing is elderburr1 so if you
can add me or do whatever you have to do to be able to talk at 4 on
sunday. It should be good. I am excited to see you all and see how
different you all are. Just a year and a half older is all. I am also
really happy that Bryson is still on track to serve a mission. I am
happy to see that that whole family has turned around and they are
making the best out of the situation. I always knew they would. I love
Kyle he is such a good friend. I also love Quade and know he will be
there the 25 to talk. That man is also awesome. This last week was
pretty tight. We baptized the little America and she is so happy. On
thursday we had the opportunity to direct and speak in a funeral of an
Hermana that died. That was definately a first time event haha. I
never even knew the lady but my comp and I each gave a talk and sang a
special hymn. We song Nearer my God to Thee. We had several people
tell us it sounded like an angel choir. I dont believe it but I do
know the Spirit was very strong. After giving the talks the Hno of the
lady that died asked us to dedicate the gravesite so we did that as
well. Needless to say it was a learning event and it was an experience
that the Lord gave me to be able to excercise His Priesthood. I was
very happy that day. This week was just another awesome week in the
mission field. I loved it. I wont tell you any more details so Sunday
we can talk about some things. I look forward to talking with you mom
and family. I hope it all works out well. Merry Christmas to all from
Mexico! I love you all!
Elder Burr
Matt's email 12/17/2011
I have successfully received 2 packages this week that were UNOPENED when I got them! One of them had a nativity set in it that is now on my study table reminding me of the real reason we have Christmas and the other, which was full of amazing treats and beef jerkey and spitz and all that good stuff is also on the table waiting for Christmas. The gifts are still unopened so you have no need to worry! Thanks for the packages. They were perhaps 2 of the best that I have received while being on the mission and I am super grateful for them! So thank you very much!
This week was fantastic. Elder Menocal and I have been continuing travelling throughout the mission working with the Zone Leaders and it has proven to be super successful. We are happy to know that the vision that President Avila has for the mission is being put into practice and that the missionaries are seeing miracles by applying the simple principles that have been taught. This week we went up to San Juan to be with Elder Roché and Elder Baker which are two really good friends that I have here on the mission. Elder Baker was in the zone in san luis and Elder Roché was travelling for 2 transfers here in the offices so that made it really easy to go and do what we were called to do. I had the opportunity of working with Elder Roché. On Tuesday night we went to accompany a companionship of hermanas to an appointment that they had with one of their investigators. I had never worked with sister missionaries before, and honestly didn´t know what to expect, but I was amazed. These two sisters taught with a Spirit that was incredible. They changed the way that I think about sister missionaries. The lesson we had with this investigator went really well and he is getting baptized today! On Wednesday morning, Elder Roche and I worked in their area and saw another miracle. We were teaching a man who stopped them on the streets and said that he wanted to get baptized, but that had a huge doubt about the virgin. We were explaining to him about how we think about the virgin and how she was obviously chosen by God to be the earthly mother of Jesus Christ, but that she has no power or authority to be our intercessor between us and God and that the only true faith is faith in Jesus Christ, not in the Virgin. The man understood it well and then we asked him for a reference. He started explaining his neighbor to us and how she was this woman that was always with different men and didn´t know how to raise her own children and how she was just a mess, but we went and contacted her and the story was nothing short of a miracle. We knocked her door and I promise you that I have never seen a bigger smile in my entire life. She seemed so happy to see us and it felt as if we had known each other for years. She immediately made us pass in to her house and we started figuring out who this person was. As we were asking a few questions she asked us in the most simple wording I had ever heard what it was that we had brought to her house. We told her that we brought the most important message that she would ever hear in her life and then explained her the story of the Restoration. As we were sharing the story of Joseph Smith she stopped us and said, ¨chicos, I now know that God is not a God of coincidence. Just 20 minutes ago I was thinking about the church and why there are so many and I was wondering how I could become better. Then I heard a knock on my door and it was you.¨ I know that God is continually preparing His children and how blessed I felt at that moment to be worthy enough to listen to the Spirit and act and spiritual promptings. I wish I could be there to see how her progress continues, but the stories like these are ones that make the mission amazing. On Thursday I had the opportunity to work with another really good buddy who started out the mission when I was down in Alvear and we had a blast and were able to do one more baptismal interview and then yesterday morning Elder Menocal boarded the bus and headed on back to Mendoza to have interviews with President. The interview that I had with President was fantastic and we talked about what I am learning and what are some of the hard parts about being where I am at. I answered him honestly and told him one of the hardest parts is always being me. Sometimes we show up to a zone and in order to resolve some of the problems I am often tempted to be someone that I am not and every time I give in to those temptations, those situations never turn out the way I intended them to turn out. President helped me see that the Lord called me to be where I am because of who I am. He doesn´t expect me to be perfect and he does expect me to repent and change some of my old habits, but he doesn´t expect me to change ¨me.¨ I felt really good when he told me that and it made me excited to keep on keepin on. This has been the hardest, most rewarding time of my mission for sure and I am so happy to be serving the Lord in this amazing Christmas season.
Just to let you know we have permission to use Skype for the phone call home or if you would like we can just use the good ol telephone. I am good with either option so just let me know which you would all prefer. I need to know what time you will all be available if we are using skype so that I can get the account set up and do all that good stuff so an email back asap would be great.
I hope you all have a very good week with the last minute preparations and dinners and good stuff that you will be doing. I love you all!
This week was fantastic. Elder Menocal and I have been continuing travelling throughout the mission working with the Zone Leaders and it has proven to be super successful. We are happy to know that the vision that President Avila has for the mission is being put into practice and that the missionaries are seeing miracles by applying the simple principles that have been taught. This week we went up to San Juan to be with Elder Roché and Elder Baker which are two really good friends that I have here on the mission. Elder Baker was in the zone in san luis and Elder Roché was travelling for 2 transfers here in the offices so that made it really easy to go and do what we were called to do. I had the opportunity of working with Elder Roché. On Tuesday night we went to accompany a companionship of hermanas to an appointment that they had with one of their investigators. I had never worked with sister missionaries before, and honestly didn´t know what to expect, but I was amazed. These two sisters taught with a Spirit that was incredible. They changed the way that I think about sister missionaries. The lesson we had with this investigator went really well and he is getting baptized today! On Wednesday morning, Elder Roche and I worked in their area and saw another miracle. We were teaching a man who stopped them on the streets and said that he wanted to get baptized, but that had a huge doubt about the virgin. We were explaining to him about how we think about the virgin and how she was obviously chosen by God to be the earthly mother of Jesus Christ, but that she has no power or authority to be our intercessor between us and God and that the only true faith is faith in Jesus Christ, not in the Virgin. The man understood it well and then we asked him for a reference. He started explaining his neighbor to us and how she was this woman that was always with different men and didn´t know how to raise her own children and how she was just a mess, but we went and contacted her and the story was nothing short of a miracle. We knocked her door and I promise you that I have never seen a bigger smile in my entire life. She seemed so happy to see us and it felt as if we had known each other for years. She immediately made us pass in to her house and we started figuring out who this person was. As we were asking a few questions she asked us in the most simple wording I had ever heard what it was that we had brought to her house. We told her that we brought the most important message that she would ever hear in her life and then explained her the story of the Restoration. As we were sharing the story of Joseph Smith she stopped us and said, ¨chicos, I now know that God is not a God of coincidence. Just 20 minutes ago I was thinking about the church and why there are so many and I was wondering how I could become better. Then I heard a knock on my door and it was you.¨ I know that God is continually preparing His children and how blessed I felt at that moment to be worthy enough to listen to the Spirit and act and spiritual promptings. I wish I could be there to see how her progress continues, but the stories like these are ones that make the mission amazing. On Thursday I had the opportunity to work with another really good buddy who started out the mission when I was down in Alvear and we had a blast and were able to do one more baptismal interview and then yesterday morning Elder Menocal boarded the bus and headed on back to Mendoza to have interviews with President. The interview that I had with President was fantastic and we talked about what I am learning and what are some of the hard parts about being where I am at. I answered him honestly and told him one of the hardest parts is always being me. Sometimes we show up to a zone and in order to resolve some of the problems I am often tempted to be someone that I am not and every time I give in to those temptations, those situations never turn out the way I intended them to turn out. President helped me see that the Lord called me to be where I am because of who I am. He doesn´t expect me to be perfect and he does expect me to repent and change some of my old habits, but he doesn´t expect me to change ¨me.¨ I felt really good when he told me that and it made me excited to keep on keepin on. This has been the hardest, most rewarding time of my mission for sure and I am so happy to be serving the Lord in this amazing Christmas season.
Just to let you know we have permission to use Skype for the phone call home or if you would like we can just use the good ol telephone. I am good with either option so just let me know which you would all prefer. I need to know what time you will all be available if we are using skype so that I can get the account set up and do all that good stuff so an email back asap would be great.
I hope you all have a very good week with the last minute preparations and dinners and good stuff that you will be doing. I love you all!
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Matt's email 12/10/2011
Alright I have realized that if I don´t answer the questions first in the email I never answer them so I am just letting you know right now that I have gotten one package that had the popcorn and a way sweet rvca shirt in it. I don´t know if the envelope had anything in it besides a letter and pictures because when I got it it was opened up with a razor knife and all I found was the letter and pictures. If there was anything else in it, I didn´t get it. I don´t know why but all the packages that I get have been opened up in the customs so I have no idea how much is actually getting through. The popcorn and the Ensign are amazing though. I have been studying all the talks lately and I have realized how much more I am learning now. I love being able to go back and read the words of the modern day prophets and meditate on the teachings that they have for us in our day.
This past week was full of many great things. We spent up until yesterday afternoon working over in Valle de Uco with the zone leaders and a few of the other missionaries over there. I felt like I took more than a few steps into Bolivia. Every person in the entire city was bolivian and like 15% of them only spoke quetchua, which is nothing like spanish. It was a little frustrating, but I was amazed at the amount that the other missionaries taught me as I was working with them. I feel so blessed to be able to serve the other missionaries here in the mission and the memories are always something that I will keep close to my heart.
Last night we had the yearly Christmas party in our ward in Godoy Cruz and it was amazing. There were so many inactive member that brought friends to the acitivty that it was just incredible. There were members that recently got baptized in Utah that came and another that got baptized in Buenos Aires that are all just bringing in the friends. It is a huge miracle and the biggest miracle of the night was that we found out that towards the end of January Cristian and Yemina are getting married!! They finally have been touched by the spirit and have gotten over their worldy desires and want to follow Jesus Christ!! I was so happy to hear that news that I almost fell down in shock. It was amazing. On the other hand, the dad of Andrea passed away this week which is an amazing opportunity to touch her heart and see the importance of baptism with her kids. The miracles are just flowing right now and I am loving it. I
I hope you all have a great week and that you enjoy this amazing Christmas Spirit. I love you all!
Elder Burr
This past week was full of many great things. We spent up until yesterday afternoon working over in Valle de Uco with the zone leaders and a few of the other missionaries over there. I felt like I took more than a few steps into Bolivia. Every person in the entire city was bolivian and like 15% of them only spoke quetchua, which is nothing like spanish. It was a little frustrating, but I was amazed at the amount that the other missionaries taught me as I was working with them. I feel so blessed to be able to serve the other missionaries here in the mission and the memories are always something that I will keep close to my heart.
Last night we had the yearly Christmas party in our ward in Godoy Cruz and it was amazing. There were so many inactive member that brought friends to the acitivty that it was just incredible. There were members that recently got baptized in Utah that came and another that got baptized in Buenos Aires that are all just bringing in the friends. It is a huge miracle and the biggest miracle of the night was that we found out that towards the end of January Cristian and Yemina are getting married!! They finally have been touched by the spirit and have gotten over their worldy desires and want to follow Jesus Christ!! I was so happy to hear that news that I almost fell down in shock. It was amazing. On the other hand, the dad of Andrea passed away this week which is an amazing opportunity to touch her heart and see the importance of baptism with her kids. The miracles are just flowing right now and I am loving it. I
I hope you all have a great week and that you enjoy this amazing Christmas Spirit. I love you all!
Elder Burr
Marc's email 12/5/2011
Hey mom so I dont have much time right now but I will let you in on
the news. I got transfered to Xaliso Nayarit and I am companions with
Elder Boylan. He has 3 months in the mission but he seems like a good
hard worker. The area is different than being in the city. It is right
on the benches of a little mountain hill kinda thing so it is way
pretty. I still dont know much about it but I am also district leader
here so that is good. I am happy you are having fun in Germany and
seeing new things. I love you mom thanks for everything. Also jeny,
the girl that i baptized wrote me a note that said that she would love
to meet you and tell you that you have raised a noble son and that
your son brought her the gospel of Christ. it would mean more if you
understood spanish but that is what she said. It meant alot to me when
I read it.. Well I will tell you more next week
Elder Burr
the news. I got transfered to Xaliso Nayarit and I am companions with
Elder Boylan. He has 3 months in the mission but he seems like a good
hard worker. The area is different than being in the city. It is right
on the benches of a little mountain hill kinda thing so it is way
pretty. I still dont know much about it but I am also district leader
here so that is good. I am happy you are having fun in Germany and
seeing new things. I love you mom thanks for everything. Also jeny,
the girl that i baptized wrote me a note that said that she would love
to meet you and tell you that you have raised a noble son and that
your son brought her the gospel of Christ. it would mean more if you
understood spanish but that is what she said. It meant alot to me when
I read it.. Well I will tell you more next week
Elder Burr
Matt's email 12/3/2011
Sorry I didn´t have any time to write you last week but now I am a
>>> little bit more relaxed with some more time to write and say what
>>> ´s up. The past week was pretty hectic, but it turned out to be
>>> pretty good. We had a lot of missionaries coming in for different
>>> meetings which is always a pain because that means that we have to
>>> be in planning with President and figuring out what we are going
>>> to teach, but I have to say that it has helped me become a better
>>> teacher, which will hopefully be a benefit in the future. I am
>>> sure it will be. I have to be honest, working this close with
>>> president brings with it a lot of stress. We are always having
>>> phone calls and people asking us a bunch of different things, but
>>> I am so grateful for the opportunity to kneel and pray whenever I
>>> feel like I need it. It has been such a help to me to be able to
>>> get on my knees and talk with my Heavenly Father. It is what I
>>> most look forward to at nights and every morning I wake up
>>> thinking about it. It is something that without the mission I
>>> never would have been able to pick up as a habit.
>>> So a while ago I got the form that I have to fill out to get my
>>> flights home and all that good stuff. I have been putting it off
>>> because I don´t want to think about it too much, but the time has
>>> now come to ask a few questions...
>>> First and foremost, Do you and mom have any desires to come out
>>> and see what Argentina has to offer?? I know it will be a
>>> sacrifice on your part, but if you and mom want to, I think it
>>> would be awesome. If not it would also be cool if you were waiting
>>> in Atlanta or something like that so that I could fly home with
>>> you in the Mooney. That would be quite the homecoming huh?? And if
>>> you don´t want to do either of those, I can just make the journey
>>> alone and see you all at SLC. So those are the options that we
>>> have now to deal with. I trust that the decision that you make
>>> will be the best so just let me know as soon as you can. I am
>>> perfectly fine with any of the three.
>>> I want you to know that I´m finding joy in the service. It isn´t
>>> all color of roses out here, but it is definitely a battlefield
>>> for learning. I know that everyday when I wake up I am
>>> strengthened by the Lord and I know he watches over me as I sleep.
>>> I love knowing that I am a child of God and that He loves me as
>>> you do. You are the greatest!!
>>> Elder Burr
>>> little bit more relaxed with some more time to write and say what
>>> ´s up. The past week was pretty hectic, but it turned out to be
>>> pretty good. We had a lot of missionaries coming in for different
>>> meetings which is always a pain because that means that we have to
>>> be in planning with President and figuring out what we are going
>>> to teach, but I have to say that it has helped me become a better
>>> teacher, which will hopefully be a benefit in the future. I am
>>> sure it will be. I have to be honest, working this close with
>>> president brings with it a lot of stress. We are always having
>>> phone calls and people asking us a bunch of different things, but
>>> I am so grateful for the opportunity to kneel and pray whenever I
>>> feel like I need it. It has been such a help to me to be able to
>>> get on my knees and talk with my Heavenly Father. It is what I
>>> most look forward to at nights and every morning I wake up
>>> thinking about it. It is something that without the mission I
>>> never would have been able to pick up as a habit.
>>> So a while ago I got the form that I have to fill out to get my
>>> flights home and all that good stuff. I have been putting it off
>>> because I don´t want to think about it too much, but the time has
>>> now come to ask a few questions...
>>> First and foremost, Do you and mom have any desires to come out
>>> and see what Argentina has to offer?? I know it will be a
>>> sacrifice on your part, but if you and mom want to, I think it
>>> would be awesome. If not it would also be cool if you were waiting
>>> in Atlanta or something like that so that I could fly home with
>>> you in the Mooney. That would be quite the homecoming huh?? And if
>>> you don´t want to do either of those, I can just make the journey
>>> alone and see you all at SLC. So those are the options that we
>>> have now to deal with. I trust that the decision that you make
>>> will be the best so just let me know as soon as you can. I am
>>> perfectly fine with any of the three.
>>> I want you to know that I´m finding joy in the service. It isn´t
>>> all color of roses out here, but it is definitely a battlefield
>>> for learning. I know that everyday when I wake up I am
>>> strengthened by the Lord and I know he watches over me as I sleep.
>>> I love knowing that I am a child of God and that He loves me as
>>> you do. You are the greatest!!
>>> Elder Burr
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Marc's email 11/28/2011
Hey mom
Just checking in from another week of work in the Vineyard of the
Lord. It is good to know that you enjoyed your trip to DC and now you
are going to Germany again for the 100th time. It is also good to
hear that Ben and Olivia are doing good and enjoying the East coast.
Is their house nice? Still haven't gotten pictures of it or of them for
a while. How is the rest of the family? It has been a while since I
have gotten a package. Like 6 weeks but they are probably in the
offices. I hope to get them soon. I said that about the changes
because this is the last week of the changes and a missionary usually
doesn't stay in the same area for more than 4 changes so I am thinking
they are going to change me. We will find out on sunday. I have grown
to love this ward though and many of the members. I have come to
understand them and have gained a greater desire to serve them and to
love them. There are several families here that I love and have
learned many things from them. It turns out that in my mission the
people that I have learned to love and admire aren't the ones that have
a lot of money and a nice house. They are the families that have
hardly anything but are willing to give everything they have to make
us happy. They are always willing to work with us and are always
helping us and giving us references. They are the ones that have
relied on the Lord for everything and for me they are great examples.
I couldn't imagine what it would be like living on the money you make
in the flea market every day and trying to sustain a family but here
there are members that do it and I admire them greatly. This week for
us was terrible. We had tons of lessons that fell through and the
people that we find were not exactly prepared for this message. It
cause me a lot of grief and pain seeing all of our work from the past
week go to the garbage but I find comfort in knowing that I am working
for the Lord and he is aware of everything that happens. In this week
I will just have to rely on Him and keep on looking for people. I have
come to realize that on the mission there are many trials and
obstacles that are always present. Just like in real life we have to
learn how to deal with all the things that front us. I have learned
that to trust in the Lord and do His will is always the best option.
That is what we will try to do this week.
As for my testimony of Jesus Christ and missionary work I wouldn't even
know where to start. One thing that I have learned in this past year
is that He loves us. He loves us so much that he was willing to die
for us. He died for all of us and as a missionary I have to
opportunity to testify of this love that He has and share it with
everybody. I get to invite others to come unto Him and "drink from the
waters of life freely". I get to invite people to live a life centered
on Him and His sacrifice. I have the opportunity to wear His name over
my heart every day and be a living example of His work and His gospel.
As it has been promised, I know that he is working alongside me. In
the times when I think I can't move on He inspires me to work harder.
He is the only one that offers us salvation. This gospel that has been
restored by a living prophet is the exact gospel that He established
here on this earth over 2000 years ago. In 3 Nephi 20 He talks about
this work. He testifies that all mankind will be brought to the
knowledge of our Savior, the Mesias. This is the message I get to
proclaim every day of my life. That He lives and He made it possible
for us to return to our Heavenly Father. They love us and have given
us everything so we can return. I will do all I can so that my family
and I can all return to His presence. I know this is true. I know this
is His church and He guides us through our beloved prophet Thomas S.
Monson. He is a man of God and by following his teachings we will be
lead towards the truth. It is a privilege and an honor that I have to
be able to witness miracles and fulfill this amazing prophecy. I love
it will all of my heart.
Well family I am out. I hope you all enjoy your week.
Elder Burr
Just checking in from another week of work in the Vineyard of the
Lord. It is good to know that you enjoyed your trip to DC and now you
are going to Germany again for the 100th time. It is also good to
hear that Ben and Olivia are doing good and enjoying the East coast.
Is their house nice? Still haven't gotten pictures of it or of them for
a while. How is the rest of the family? It has been a while since I
have gotten a package. Like 6 weeks but they are probably in the
offices. I hope to get them soon. I said that about the changes
because this is the last week of the changes and a missionary usually
doesn't stay in the same area for more than 4 changes so I am thinking
they are going to change me. We will find out on sunday. I have grown
to love this ward though and many of the members. I have come to
understand them and have gained a greater desire to serve them and to
love them. There are several families here that I love and have
learned many things from them. It turns out that in my mission the
people that I have learned to love and admire aren't the ones that have
a lot of money and a nice house. They are the families that have
hardly anything but are willing to give everything they have to make
us happy. They are always willing to work with us and are always
helping us and giving us references. They are the ones that have
relied on the Lord for everything and for me they are great examples.
I couldn't imagine what it would be like living on the money you make
in the flea market every day and trying to sustain a family but here
there are members that do it and I admire them greatly. This week for
us was terrible. We had tons of lessons that fell through and the
people that we find were not exactly prepared for this message. It
cause me a lot of grief and pain seeing all of our work from the past
week go to the garbage but I find comfort in knowing that I am working
for the Lord and he is aware of everything that happens. In this week
I will just have to rely on Him and keep on looking for people. I have
come to realize that on the mission there are many trials and
obstacles that are always present. Just like in real life we have to
learn how to deal with all the things that front us. I have learned
that to trust in the Lord and do His will is always the best option.
That is what we will try to do this week.
As for my testimony of Jesus Christ and missionary work I wouldn't even
know where to start. One thing that I have learned in this past year
is that He loves us. He loves us so much that he was willing to die
for us. He died for all of us and as a missionary I have to
opportunity to testify of this love that He has and share it with
everybody. I get to invite others to come unto Him and "drink from the
waters of life freely". I get to invite people to live a life centered
on Him and His sacrifice. I have the opportunity to wear His name over
my heart every day and be a living example of His work and His gospel.
As it has been promised, I know that he is working alongside me. In
the times when I think I can't move on He inspires me to work harder.
He is the only one that offers us salvation. This gospel that has been
restored by a living prophet is the exact gospel that He established
here on this earth over 2000 years ago. In 3 Nephi 20 He talks about
this work. He testifies that all mankind will be brought to the
knowledge of our Savior, the Mesias. This is the message I get to
proclaim every day of my life. That He lives and He made it possible
for us to return to our Heavenly Father. They love us and have given
us everything so we can return. I will do all I can so that my family
and I can all return to His presence. I know this is true. I know this
is His church and He guides us through our beloved prophet Thomas S.
Monson. He is a man of God and by following his teachings we will be
lead towards the truth. It is a privilege and an honor that I have to
be able to witness miracles and fulfill this amazing prophecy. I love
it will all of my heart.
Well family I am out. I hope you all enjoy your week.
Elder Burr
Matt's email 11/26/2011
I know it's really early to be writitng today but I have to tell you that this week was absolutely nuts. We started last Friday with training meetings with the zone leaders and the district leaders. We had a few days break and on Tuesday we started back up again. We were teaching for 8 hours per day and then we got in the car and drove for 3 hours to the next destination and woke up the next day to do the same thing. In the week we taught for over 40 hours and drove more than 1200 kilometers. Needless to say, I'm more tired than I ever have been. Then last night on the way home President asked me to help him drive again to San Luis today and accompany him with Hermana Avila to the stake conference. It was hard for me to decline knowing that tomorrow Wilson will be receiving the Melchezidek Priesthood. So to make a long story short, within the next 15 minutes we are parting again from Mendoza and heading on out to San Luis for travel trip round two! It has been absolutely amazing being able to spend time traveling with president. We spent many of the travel hours talking about the blessings that come from living the Gospel in every aspect of life. He shared a bunch of stories of when he was starting out with his company and how he overcame the difficulties by simply living the principles of the Gospel. I came to a new resolution in life that I am never going to let the Gospel take a back seat role in my life. It is the most important thing that I have and I feel so blessed to be able to share it with the other people here in this mission. President is an amazing man and has taught me so many things that are going to be huge benefits for when I start getting things going.
I'm glad that all is well at home. I hope you enjoy the weekend in Virginia. Tell all the family that I say what's good. I will send that testimony hopefully on Monday because right now I have no time because we are headed out. I love you all. You are the greatest. Sorry for the short email but the next one will be better and filled with details so don't worry!!
Elder Burr
I'm glad that all is well at home. I hope you enjoy the weekend in Virginia. Tell all the family that I say what's good. I will send that testimony hopefully on Monday because right now I have no time because we are headed out. I love you all. You are the greatest. Sorry for the short email but the next one will be better and filled with details so don't worry!!
Elder Burr
Marc's email 11/22/2011
So apparently it is Thanksgiving this week and I completely forgot about it. I guess that after so much time of eating beans, tacos, and tortillas you kind of forget about the huge roasted turkeys and parties with the family. I cant believe that is was a year ago that I was in the MTC listening to Elder Holland talk to us on Thanksgiving day. It seems like it was yesterday. Alot of things have happened in the past year that I am so grateful for.
Anyway since you guys hardly did anything this week I will tell you a little bit about my week. It was a normal week here in Estancia. We started off doing divisions with the assistants which was pretty good. Elder Banks and I worked all day and found several people. They couldnt make it to the church though so we will be going with them this week to see if they are baptizable. We also had an activity on sat. name the trip to hawaii. I focused on the Plan of Salvation and had to do with an airplane crash and the people learning about the life after death. They all ended up in the Celestial kingdom where all of us were dressed up in white and we had a baptismal service. So it was a really espiritual experience. Today we had the opportunity to go to the temple so that is why I am writing on tuesday. It was awesome to be able to go into the Sacred place and feel the spirit so strong. Sometimes as missionaries that is what we need. A little break to be able to meditate and think about what we have learned and experienced and how we have grown. That is what I was able to do in the temple and I think this time I learned more than any other time I have gone. I loved it. I was also able to do divisions with one of the areas in my district and that was also very good. It was good to work in a different area and help some of the missionaries. The only downfall was that I left the house in the hands of 4 mexican missionaries all under the age of 20. I came home to a house completely hammered. I had to have a talk with my companion cause the kid just doesnt want to grow up. He teaches well and works well as a missionary but when we are home he acts like a little 4 year old. He always pulls his pranks while we are showering and takes peoples stuff without asking and when I tell him that all he needs to do is ask permission he says stupid comments. I was about to strangle him in the morning. I still dont know why the mexicans can leave on the mission at 18. O h well 2 weeks left. The good thing though that I loved about the week is that once again it hit me how grateful I am to be able to testify the truthfulness of this Gospel. Whether or not the people accept me I know this message is true. I know this church is the only true church on the earth today and that Jesus Christ is at the head. He loves us. Heavenly Father loves us. I know that we have all taken a true baptism and that the Lord is willing to take away our sins. I know that this is all true. I know that we need to serve the people. That is another thing I love about being here. I love serving the people. I love the feeling I get when I see someone smile because we helped them. I love seeing the lives of the people change. I love it all. I love you all and am so grateful for you. I am grateful for everything I have and most importantly for Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ. I love them both. I love Joseph Smith and the things he suffered so we could have this church. I love it all! Well yeah now I am bouncin. Have a great thanksgiving!
Elder Burr
Anyway since you guys hardly did anything this week I will tell you a little bit about my week. It was a normal week here in Estancia. We started off doing divisions with the assistants which was pretty good. Elder Banks and I worked all day and found several people. They couldnt make it to the church though so we will be going with them this week to see if they are baptizable. We also had an activity on sat. name the trip to hawaii. I focused on the Plan of Salvation and had to do with an airplane crash and the people learning about the life after death. They all ended up in the Celestial kingdom where all of us were dressed up in white and we had a baptismal service. So it was a really espiritual experience. Today we had the opportunity to go to the temple so that is why I am writing on tuesday. It was awesome to be able to go into the Sacred place and feel the spirit so strong. Sometimes as missionaries that is what we need. A little break to be able to meditate and think about what we have learned and experienced and how we have grown. That is what I was able to do in the temple and I think this time I learned more than any other time I have gone. I loved it. I was also able to do divisions with one of the areas in my district and that was also very good. It was good to work in a different area and help some of the missionaries. The only downfall was that I left the house in the hands of 4 mexican missionaries all under the age of 20. I came home to a house completely hammered. I had to have a talk with my companion cause the kid just doesnt want to grow up. He teaches well and works well as a missionary but when we are home he acts like a little 4 year old. He always pulls his pranks while we are showering and takes peoples stuff without asking and when I tell him that all he needs to do is ask permission he says stupid comments. I was about to strangle him in the morning. I still dont know why the mexicans can leave on the mission at 18. O h well 2 weeks left. The good thing though that I loved about the week is that once again it hit me how grateful I am to be able to testify the truthfulness of this Gospel. Whether or not the people accept me I know this message is true. I know this church is the only true church on the earth today and that Jesus Christ is at the head. He loves us. Heavenly Father loves us. I know that we have all taken a true baptism and that the Lord is willing to take away our sins. I know that this is all true. I know that we need to serve the people. That is another thing I love about being here. I love serving the people. I love the feeling I get when I see someone smile because we helped them. I love seeing the lives of the people change. I love it all. I love you all and am so grateful for you. I am grateful for everything I have and most importantly for Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ. I love them both. I love Joseph Smith and the things he suffered so we could have this church. I love it all! Well yeah now I am bouncin. Have a great thanksgiving!
Elder Burr
Monday, November 21, 2011
Matt's email 11/19/2011
Hey mom how are you doing?? Don't be scared that I am emailing you
> right now, I'm just trying to be disobedient... ha ha no I'm just
> kidding. I just wanted to tell you that I love you and you are the
> greatest mom ever!!! I also wanted you to know that I will be
> emailing home tomorrow instead of Monday. Our p-day has been changed
> here in the offices to saturday so I would love a quick update if
> you have some time for tomorrow! If not I can just wait until next
> saturday. I love you mom!
> Elder Burr
This means that Matt's p-day is Saturday so if you want to write, you
need to do it Friday night.
So I´m going to be honest, I don´t know how I feel about this whole
emailing home thing on Saturday, but I guess it is what it is. The
thing is that life gets so busy around here at the first of the week
that it was just impossible to have a p day on monday so after about 2
months of not having a real p day, President decided to change the day
to saturday. I was really happy to read the weekly update and it
really does surprise me how much you can fit in to such a tiny week. It
´s like a Longaburger basket... somehow you can just never fill them
completely up. I am thoroughly surprised that dad allowed you to buy
two new Christmas trees. I am guessing he wants double the Christmas
cheer now that nobody is home or maybe he wants double the presents
for himself. By any means, I can see an advantage to the buy.
The miracle of the week happened on Thursday right as we got here to
the offices. I was figuring out a few things with the nurse when a
member from another ward walked in and told us to go with her because
there was a man that she didn´t know who wanted to see the family
history center. Let me tell you that a more than a year and a half has
passed by since someone has ever mentioned anything about family
history centers here in mendoza. But anyway this man said that when he
was about 5 his dad left him and a short time later his mom left him
as well. He was forced to live on his own and make do with what he
had. He made himself a living off of whatever he could find and many
times went without. A little while ago he was in Chile and he walked
past the temple and saw on the gate a flyer that talked about tracking
you ancestors. He said that it really caught his attention, but after
reading it, he forgot completely all about that service that the
church provides. He never lost, however, the need and the desire to
know who his parents and brother are. As we bore testimony of the
miracle of family history, the sister from the other ward worked
diligently on trying to find the records of his dad who was born in a
tiny city in the southern part of Chile in the region Bío-Bío. As she
was searching these family names I noticed the changed look on this man
´s face as the spirit of Elijah filled his soul. He read every name
that appeared on the screen and asked if that was his dad. Although we
couldn´t stay around long enough to find the exact records of his dad,
we are sure that this man will be coming back to continue doing family
history work. I was completely taken away and gained a huge testimony
of the reality of doing family history work. There is no doubt in my
mind that this church is true. It is just too perfect and fills any
hole in any heart if we are just humble. I love being able to share a
message that I know that God is not quiet. He is very much involved in
my life. He has spoken to me and I have been able to hear. I love my
life!
Love you
Elder Burr
> right now, I'm just trying to be disobedient... ha ha no I'm just
> kidding. I just wanted to tell you that I love you and you are the
> greatest mom ever!!! I also wanted you to know that I will be
> emailing home tomorrow instead of Monday. Our p-day has been changed
> here in the offices to saturday so I would love a quick update if
> you have some time for tomorrow! If not I can just wait until next
> saturday. I love you mom!
> Elder Burr
This means that Matt's p-day is Saturday so if you want to write, you
need to do it Friday night.
So I´m going to be honest, I don´t know how I feel about this whole
emailing home thing on Saturday, but I guess it is what it is. The
thing is that life gets so busy around here at the first of the week
that it was just impossible to have a p day on monday so after about 2
months of not having a real p day, President decided to change the day
to saturday. I was really happy to read the weekly update and it
really does surprise me how much you can fit in to such a tiny week. It
´s like a Longaburger basket... somehow you can just never fill them
completely up. I am thoroughly surprised that dad allowed you to buy
two new Christmas trees. I am guessing he wants double the Christmas
cheer now that nobody is home or maybe he wants double the presents
for himself. By any means, I can see an advantage to the buy.
The miracle of the week happened on Thursday right as we got here to
the offices. I was figuring out a few things with the nurse when a
member from another ward walked in and told us to go with her because
there was a man that she didn´t know who wanted to see the family
history center. Let me tell you that a more than a year and a half has
passed by since someone has ever mentioned anything about family
history centers here in mendoza. But anyway this man said that when he
was about 5 his dad left him and a short time later his mom left him
as well. He was forced to live on his own and make do with what he
had. He made himself a living off of whatever he could find and many
times went without. A little while ago he was in Chile and he walked
past the temple and saw on the gate a flyer that talked about tracking
you ancestors. He said that it really caught his attention, but after
reading it, he forgot completely all about that service that the
church provides. He never lost, however, the need and the desire to
know who his parents and brother are. As we bore testimony of the
miracle of family history, the sister from the other ward worked
diligently on trying to find the records of his dad who was born in a
tiny city in the southern part of Chile in the region Bío-Bío. As she
was searching these family names I noticed the changed look on this man
´s face as the spirit of Elijah filled his soul. He read every name
that appeared on the screen and asked if that was his dad. Although we
couldn´t stay around long enough to find the exact records of his dad,
we are sure that this man will be coming back to continue doing family
history work. I was completely taken away and gained a huge testimony
of the reality of doing family history work. There is no doubt in my
mind that this church is true. It is just too perfect and fills any
hole in any heart if we are just humble. I love being able to share a
message that I know that God is not quiet. He is very much involved in
my life. He has spoken to me and I have been able to hear. I love my
life!
Love you
Elder Burr
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Marc's email 11/14/2011
It sounds like you are all running out of stuff to do. Mom no longer watches TV, dad is probably just chillin, the snow is falling and you are probably just bored out of your minds. That is good though, I would give anything for a good snowfall here in Guady. I dont understand the weather here. In the morning it is freezing cold but in the afternoon it is burning hot. It stays hot for about three hours then it turns cold again. It is a bit much but what can you do? That is good that Quade and Tommy went up to the house. I hope Tommy decides to go back on the mission and not be like other people I know who just throw in the towel and stay home. I know the mission changes lives and that is what all young men need. Also it is exciting that Cam and Ashley are going to have a boy. I swear tae was just born yesterday.. It is sickening how fast time goes by. Also I find it weird to hear that all of the girls from my grade are all getting married and stuff... That thought makes me want to vomit. I still have some living the dream to do. I am sure that Living the Dream has always been part of the Plan of Salvation. Adam fell that men might be and men are that they might have joy. Sounds like living the dream to me. Anyway about this week. It was a crazy week with crazy people. On tuesday we were contacting in the metropolitan park and we came up on some americans. Turns out they were christians and started ripping us apart. So me, being as I am, starting ripping them apart with scriptures and testimony and turned around every part of doctrine they brought up. The wife got all sorts of mad and went and talked to the plice man who came and kicked us out of the park. It was pretty funny and made me remember the prophets who were thrown out of cities for preaching the truth. It helped me strengthen my testimony. Also on wednesday we did some contacting and it was all normal. Thursday we sang in the busses. Yeah my comp carried his guitar around and we got on the busses and sang and contacted the people. Never thought I would have seen that day but it happened. Friday we contacted a street and taught a family with a son that was skitzofrenic, daughter that was handicap, and dad that was deaf. We just sang and bounced cause the family was crazy. We then contacted a lady that said if she came downstairs she would have had a heart attack. To top it all off a handicap guy came by and told us his name was pepe and just walked off. Needless to say that day was full of interesting people. Saturday was just a normal day and Sunday Victor got confirmed. It was a great week full of spiritual experiences and learning moments. Now this week we will be doing the same thing. Looking, knocking doors, talking with people, and hopefully baptizing a Sister named Veronica. I hope it all goes well. Anyway that is about all that happened. Just out here working hard and learing about my Lord and God. I love this work and Jesus Christ. I am grateful for Him and His sacrifice. I am grateful for the scriptures and the prophet. I am grateful for everything. I love you all and hope you have a great week
Matt's email 11/14/2011
Hello my dear family! I am glad to hear that all is going well and that you are all enjoying yourselves being pregnant and going on vacations and "working" and all that good stuff. It makes me happy to know that you are all happy. I'm also pleased to find out that Cameron and Ashley are having a boy! That should be really fun for them. I swear they just had a child, but hey, when the prophets command, we have to obey right? I love the story in first Nephi when Nephi and his brothers have to return AGAIN to Jerusalem searching for Ishmael and his family so that Lehi's lineage could continue. I especially like the part when they are in the desert on the return trip and Laman, Lemuel, a few daughters of Ishmael and the two sons begin complaining against Nephi and he begins to drop the cane on them in a very loving way. Many times we find ourselves like Laman and Lemuel, questioning the words of the prophets, but I love what Nephi said in chapter 7 verse 15. He basically says that if they want to go back to Jerusalem, they could do so, but he also promised them definite destruction. He promises them that they will perish. I love that theory. It is up to us to decide if we are going to follow the prophets or not, but if we choose not to follow them and "return to Jerusalem" we are for sure going to perish.
Things are going really well here on the mission. Elder Menocal and I are keeping our heads above the water and we are having a fantastic time. This weekend I was surprised with some awesome news. I found out that 2 families that the Lord had guided me and my companion to were baptized! It made me so happy to find out that amongst many planted seeds, at least two have begun to sprout. I was such a happy man on Saturday night when I found that out! There is nothing that brings me greater joy than finding out that people that I love and care for decide to follow Jesus Christ.
I love you all. I thank you for your support and your prayers!
Love,
Elder Burr
Things are going really well here on the mission. Elder Menocal and I are keeping our heads above the water and we are having a fantastic time. This weekend I was surprised with some awesome news. I found out that 2 families that the Lord had guided me and my companion to were baptized! It made me so happy to find out that amongst many planted seeds, at least two have begun to sprout. I was such a happy man on Saturday night when I found that out! There is nothing that brings me greater joy than finding out that people that I love and care for decide to follow Jesus Christ.
I love you all. I thank you for your support and your prayers!
Love,
Elder Burr
Friday, November 11, 2011
Marc's email 11/7/2011
I honestly can not believe that I am already writing again. I can not
fathom how fast time is going. Anyway what can we do? Just sit and
watch it go by. Mom and Dad thank you for your thoughts to my
question. Mom I know you know more than us men what it is like to love
somebody with an unconditional love like you love your children.
Unfortunately for us boys we will never know what that feels like. I
have learned more about my Heavenly Father this week and His love.
Everything about Him focuses on the Atonement of Christ. For 4
milleniums people were looking forward to that event by sacrificing
their best firstlings. After the event every week we partake of the
sacrament to remind us of what Christ did for us. I have learned that
God loves us so much that he sent us here to become like Him. He sent
us here with the Plan of Salvation so we all returned to His presence.
He risked sending us down here though cause the moment He sent us, He
lost us to sin. He has no power to bring us back. We can bring
ourselves back through His Son Jesus Christ. With our Agency and the
Atonement we can all become like our Father in Heaven and that is what
we are all striving for. That is what we learned before this life and
that is what we will be after. It sounds like it was a good week with
Adam and Eli at the house. He is really almost 5? That is unreal. Cam
and Coop are like 15 already it seems like. That means you mom and dad
are...... lets leave it at that shall we? Anyway about this week. It
was a good week. Not too great. We received many doors in the face and
many no´s but I am positive it was a week that the Lord wanted us to
learn and trust in Him. This week will be better I know it. We did an
activity this last week and Jeny was the main role. It is awesome to
see converts strengthen themselves and continue learning. The only
thing I love more than baptizing is seeing these people convert into
members. Many missionaries baptize just to baptize but that is not
what the Lord wants. He wants His children to come back to Him. I
figure that I can have swimming parties in my own pool not here in the
baptismal font. Anyway this week will be a week full of work. I love
it though and I love what I am doing and learning and becoming. I know
that this church is true and I am grateful to be a member. As for me I
am doing good. This last week I bought a tight belt made out of iguana
skin and it has the head of the iguana as a belt buckle. It is pretty
legit. The dude also threw in a wallet made out of cobra skin. Mom you
will love the things I am buying here. I am trying to become as much
mexican as I can. For christmas I cant think of much. Some jerky,
sunflower seeds, cow tails and whatever else you can think of. Well I
am about to go eat some Carls Jr. then off to the streets. I love you
mom and dad and family. I hope you are all doing well. Keep it real
and stuff cause I am out!
Elder Burr
fathom how fast time is going. Anyway what can we do? Just sit and
watch it go by. Mom and Dad thank you for your thoughts to my
question. Mom I know you know more than us men what it is like to love
somebody with an unconditional love like you love your children.
Unfortunately for us boys we will never know what that feels like. I
have learned more about my Heavenly Father this week and His love.
Everything about Him focuses on the Atonement of Christ. For 4
milleniums people were looking forward to that event by sacrificing
their best firstlings. After the event every week we partake of the
sacrament to remind us of what Christ did for us. I have learned that
God loves us so much that he sent us here to become like Him. He sent
us here with the Plan of Salvation so we all returned to His presence.
He risked sending us down here though cause the moment He sent us, He
lost us to sin. He has no power to bring us back. We can bring
ourselves back through His Son Jesus Christ. With our Agency and the
Atonement we can all become like our Father in Heaven and that is what
we are all striving for. That is what we learned before this life and
that is what we will be after. It sounds like it was a good week with
Adam and Eli at the house. He is really almost 5? That is unreal. Cam
and Coop are like 15 already it seems like. That means you mom and dad
are...... lets leave it at that shall we? Anyway about this week. It
was a good week. Not too great. We received many doors in the face and
many no´s but I am positive it was a week that the Lord wanted us to
learn and trust in Him. This week will be better I know it. We did an
activity this last week and Jeny was the main role. It is awesome to
see converts strengthen themselves and continue learning. The only
thing I love more than baptizing is seeing these people convert into
members. Many missionaries baptize just to baptize but that is not
what the Lord wants. He wants His children to come back to Him. I
figure that I can have swimming parties in my own pool not here in the
baptismal font. Anyway this week will be a week full of work. I love
it though and I love what I am doing and learning and becoming. I know
that this church is true and I am grateful to be a member. As for me I
am doing good. This last week I bought a tight belt made out of iguana
skin and it has the head of the iguana as a belt buckle. It is pretty
legit. The dude also threw in a wallet made out of cobra skin. Mom you
will love the things I am buying here. I am trying to become as much
mexican as I can. For christmas I cant think of much. Some jerky,
sunflower seeds, cow tails and whatever else you can think of. Well I
am about to go eat some Carls Jr. then off to the streets. I love you
mom and dad and family. I hope you are all doing well. Keep it real
and stuff cause I am out!
Elder Burr
Matt's email 11/7/2011
So I have decided that I am going to make a drastic change to the way that I am writing these emails home. I have been writing about the events that are going on in my life. I have been duplicating what I am putting in the daily agenda, but what I need to be doing is "sharing." I apologize for that misunderstanding on my part, but we'll give it another shot!
The other day, I had the chance to go on divisions with Elder Ostler to the house of one of the investigators in our ward. Her name is Virginia and she is the wife of a very inactive member. Her husband, at around the age of 20, had the opportunity to be baptized in the church. After being baptized he decided to go on a mission and serve the people of Buenos Aires. From the sounds of it, he served a very successful and honorable mission. He had many pictures of baptisms and had certificates congratulating him on various callings that he has had in the church and advancements in the Priesthood. that was all 30 years ago. Now he is a man that has everything with respects to the world, but nothing with respects to God. He let himself be carried on the waves of uncertainty and doubt. His big claim now is that if he would have known that Joseph Smith practiced polygamy at the time he was baptized he never would have taken the step of being baptized or serving a mission. He has let a little stupid doubt ruin his whole life. He now supports the idea of Solomon Spaulding and his made up theory of the Book of Mormon, and just as Korihor did in the olden days, he is a current anti christ. He is walking around trying to destroy the church and he has done so in the life of his wife. Virginia, who was so happy about the step she was taking by being baptized, was convinced otherwise by her oh so "loving" husband. Her husband has literally ripped out this little seed that was planted in her heart and replaced it with a rock. It really is one of the saddest cases that I have seen thus far on the mission. I have dealt with many antimormons and people studying antimormon websites and all that, but never have a met a returned missionary so twisted and turned around. It really did break my heart to hear him say that he never wanted us to return to his house. I hope that one day he will open up the door to God just to get a little bit of His light back. I hope that one day he can excercise just a tiny drop of faith so that he can come to understand the reality of God and His son Jesus Christ. I have been reminded various times of the teaching of King Benjamin in Mosiah 4 when he said, " 9 Believe in God; believe that he is, and that he created all things, both in heaven and in earth; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth; believe that man doth not comprehend all the things which the Lord can comprehend." All we have to do is BELIEVE, but there are just so many people who can't even do that. It seems so simple, but in a carnal mind it is impossible and as we know, to be carnally minded is to be dead to things spiritual. I have come to love the Book of Mormon and its teachings. I have come to have a great appreciation for Joseph Smith and the amount of dedication that he had for bringing about this work of God. I know he entered the grove not knowing much of anything, but he left it knowing more than any other man on the earth at that time.
I love you all. I love this Gospel. It is true and DONT DOUBT IT!!!
Elder Burr
The other day, I had the chance to go on divisions with Elder Ostler to the house of one of the investigators in our ward. Her name is Virginia and she is the wife of a very inactive member. Her husband, at around the age of 20, had the opportunity to be baptized in the church. After being baptized he decided to go on a mission and serve the people of Buenos Aires. From the sounds of it, he served a very successful and honorable mission. He had many pictures of baptisms and had certificates congratulating him on various callings that he has had in the church and advancements in the Priesthood. that was all 30 years ago. Now he is a man that has everything with respects to the world, but nothing with respects to God. He let himself be carried on the waves of uncertainty and doubt. His big claim now is that if he would have known that Joseph Smith practiced polygamy at the time he was baptized he never would have taken the step of being baptized or serving a mission. He has let a little stupid doubt ruin his whole life. He now supports the idea of Solomon Spaulding and his made up theory of the Book of Mormon, and just as Korihor did in the olden days, he is a current anti christ. He is walking around trying to destroy the church and he has done so in the life of his wife. Virginia, who was so happy about the step she was taking by being baptized, was convinced otherwise by her oh so "loving" husband. Her husband has literally ripped out this little seed that was planted in her heart and replaced it with a rock. It really is one of the saddest cases that I have seen thus far on the mission. I have dealt with many antimormons and people studying antimormon websites and all that, but never have a met a returned missionary so twisted and turned around. It really did break my heart to hear him say that he never wanted us to return to his house. I hope that one day he will open up the door to God just to get a little bit of His light back. I hope that one day he can excercise just a tiny drop of faith so that he can come to understand the reality of God and His son Jesus Christ. I have been reminded various times of the teaching of King Benjamin in Mosiah 4 when he said, " 9 Believe in God; believe that he is, and that he created all things, both in heaven and in earth; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth; believe that man doth not comprehend all the things which the Lord can comprehend." All we have to do is BELIEVE, but there are just so many people who can't even do that. It seems so simple, but in a carnal mind it is impossible and as we know, to be carnally minded is to be dead to things spiritual. I have come to love the Book of Mormon and its teachings. I have come to have a great appreciation for Joseph Smith and the amount of dedication that he had for bringing about this work of God. I know he entered the grove not knowing much of anything, but he left it knowing more than any other man on the earth at that time.
I love you all. I love this Gospel. It is true and DONT DOUBT IT!!!
Elder Burr
Monday, October 31, 2011
Marc's email 10/31/2011
It is nice to hear that you and dad and Mike and Sharon all made it
home safely from the Islands. It is also good to hear that you enjoyed
the trip and got to do things that you hadnt done before. Considering
the fact that you have gone 20 times one would think that you have
done it all but there is always something new to do right? So it is
Halloween today and here in Mexico you wouldnt even think it. These
people forget to decorate and be creative so it always looks and feels
the same all year long. Even Christmas day feels like any other day. I
guess with a giant beer (or 4) things would get rockin but as a member
of the church it is all the same haha. This week was a great week here
in Estancia. On Tuesday and Wednesday I had to go to a concilio where
I learned a ton of stuff. One question that was asked, I would like to
ask it to you mom and dad and family. Who is our Heavenly Father? How
much do we know about Him? This question has cause me a lot of
thinking lately. We know everything about our Savior but hardly know
anything about our Heavenly Father. We claim to have a personal
relationship with Him through prayer but do we really know Him? I have
prayed and studied alot and have come to the conclusion that God is
everything. He is love. He is patience. He is what comforts a pleading
missionary. He sent His Son to die for us so we could return to Him.
Everything we do centers on Him. His only purpose is to bring His
children back to His presence. He wants us to be happy and to learn
and to cherish the family bonds. He wants us to be successful and
reach every goal. He is our number one fan. Sadly enough we hardly
ever think about Him. We sometimes think about ourselves and our
knowledge, strength, skills, etc. I know that my Heavenly Father
lives! He is who loves me! I love Him because I love Jesus Christ.
Jesus Christ is the Son of the only living God. He is the redeemer of
the World I love them both. The concilio was all around awesome.
Another interesting thing happened this week. So we were contacting
some people in the park and happened to come across some CAtholic
missionaries. We got into a discussion and ended up leaving after some
time. We left them with the invitation to pray and ask God which
church is true. They left me with the same invitation. I did what I
always invite others to do. I asked God, for the 1000 time, if the
Book of Mormon is a true book from Him. My answer came that night in a
dream I had. In this dream I was present in the printing of the first
copy of the Book of Mormon. I was in charge of folding the pages (yes
I know that they didnt fold the pages) and I was able to witness the
printing of this book. I also helped set the type press and spot the
errors. It was a random dream but I know that it was an answer from
God. I know that book is true and this church is the only true church
on this earth. I can not deny it. I am so grateful to be here in the
work of the Lord. I am grateful for everything you have taught me mom
and dad. I love you both. And you family thank you for everything as
well. Your prayers are being answered here in my area. I love you all.
Elder Burr
home safely from the Islands. It is also good to hear that you enjoyed
the trip and got to do things that you hadnt done before. Considering
the fact that you have gone 20 times one would think that you have
done it all but there is always something new to do right? So it is
Halloween today and here in Mexico you wouldnt even think it. These
people forget to decorate and be creative so it always looks and feels
the same all year long. Even Christmas day feels like any other day. I
guess with a giant beer (or 4) things would get rockin but as a member
of the church it is all the same haha. This week was a great week here
in Estancia. On Tuesday and Wednesday I had to go to a concilio where
I learned a ton of stuff. One question that was asked, I would like to
ask it to you mom and dad and family. Who is our Heavenly Father? How
much do we know about Him? This question has cause me a lot of
thinking lately. We know everything about our Savior but hardly know
anything about our Heavenly Father. We claim to have a personal
relationship with Him through prayer but do we really know Him? I have
prayed and studied alot and have come to the conclusion that God is
everything. He is love. He is patience. He is what comforts a pleading
missionary. He sent His Son to die for us so we could return to Him.
Everything we do centers on Him. His only purpose is to bring His
children back to His presence. He wants us to be happy and to learn
and to cherish the family bonds. He wants us to be successful and
reach every goal. He is our number one fan. Sadly enough we hardly
ever think about Him. We sometimes think about ourselves and our
knowledge, strength, skills, etc. I know that my Heavenly Father
lives! He is who loves me! I love Him because I love Jesus Christ.
Jesus Christ is the Son of the only living God. He is the redeemer of
the World I love them both. The concilio was all around awesome.
Another interesting thing happened this week. So we were contacting
some people in the park and happened to come across some CAtholic
missionaries. We got into a discussion and ended up leaving after some
time. We left them with the invitation to pray and ask God which
church is true. They left me with the same invitation. I did what I
always invite others to do. I asked God, for the 1000 time, if the
Book of Mormon is a true book from Him. My answer came that night in a
dream I had. In this dream I was present in the printing of the first
copy of the Book of Mormon. I was in charge of folding the pages (yes
I know that they didnt fold the pages) and I was able to witness the
printing of this book. I also helped set the type press and spot the
errors. It was a random dream but I know that it was an answer from
God. I know that book is true and this church is the only true church
on this earth. I can not deny it. I am so grateful to be here in the
work of the Lord. I am grateful for everything you have taught me mom
and dad. I love you both. And you family thank you for everything as
well. Your prayers are being answered here in my area. I love you all.
Elder Burr
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Marc's email 10/23/2011
Wow you guys just cant stay home can you? You have gone to hawaii three times, Boston, St. George, New Hampshire, California, Lake Powell and other places. That is ridiculous. Yes mom I believe I am getting your packages. This week I got the package with the pictures of Christ and I gave one to the family Bautista. They love it. The family Bautista is one of my favorite families of the mission. The hermano is my mission leader and we get along way good. I love that family. No I do not need an umbrella, those things are gay. I think the rain has stopped for the season. I dont know what it always shows clouds if every day it is sunny and hot... Perhaps the people up there dont dare to come down to the hood to check it out. This week has been tight with the Games and everything. We have been working hard and saturday night it all paid off. We were in a lesson with Victor and it was awesome. We were talking about our purpose in life and the Atonement and then it all led to baptism. As we were answering his questions, in walked the Bishop and answered the questions he had about the medical field cause our Bishop is doctor so it all comes down to it and he said he wanted to get baptized the next day. With some phone calls and some help from the Lord, he entered into the waters of baptisms yesterday after church. We had like 30 or 40 people at the baptims including many investigators. It was an awesome, miraculous experience. We have also found many people this week that we will be going with to see if they progress. My comp is still learning and every once in a while I have to get on him for doing stupid things. For example we were in a Family Night with a family and we were sharing our favorite scriptures. It was way spritual until my comp shared the scripture in first nephi where the angel asked Nephi what he desired. Then he skipped to the scritpure that says: A virgin, A virgin.... The kid is a retard. But he is working on his stupidity. I love my area and the members here. I have some of the youth asking me to be the one to give them the Melquisidek or however you spell it priesthood. All of the kids and their leaders are working with us. The Sisters here love us and I really have learned to love this area and ward. Changes were today so I will be here another 6 weeks. Anyway I hope you are all good. Shea I know they tought you the slipknot knot.. you should have hung yourself there at that stupid camp out thing. What a waste of life haha. Did you get your toten chip to be able to carve sticks? Heather thank you for the email. It sounds like you and your family are all good. I will write some letters for the boys one of these days when I have some time to breathe. Ashley, I got your pictures and letter from Eli. Thank you! Well everybody I am out. Gotta go but some frozen chicken and cereal. I love you all keep it real! Dont get burned...
Elder Burr
Elder Burr
Matt's email 10/23/2011
Now mother if I am sending you these emails to your email address you have to be letting other people read them. I got an email from Heather saying that you are hogging all the spiritual insight so you have to be showing some love. I don't want the family thinking that I forgot about them cause we both know very well that that wouldn't ever happen. I love you though!!
This week was amazing. It wasn't full of amazing miracles like last week, but it was amazing none the less. On Tuesday I spent the entire day... sick. I woke up and was trying to do workouts, but as I was working on the fitness, the inner parts starting doing workouts on me. I Threw up for the first time on the mission and the nurse, the amazing Hermana Packer, wouldn't let me leave the offices. She made me stay in bed with the Secretary who was also sick and she made us rest.. all day. It was by far the most boring thing that I have ever done. Before the mission I loved sitting, but I think my mind has changed. It was seriously torture, but I quickly recovered and now I am feeling good. On Wednesday and Thursday Elder Menocal and I went and did divisions with Zone Leaders in Lujan and helped seal a few baptisms that they were expecting there. I had the chance to work with Elder Passantino, who has become a great friend on the mission, and the two of us together saw miracles. On Friday we had to go pick up a new elder that was coming in, which pretty much occupied the entire day getting everything ready for him and then on Saturday Maria Santos got baptized!! She was the happiest old lady after her baptism. She absolutely loved it and her service turned out to be a huge success. The ward is excited to finally have elders back. They are excited for the change.
This week is going to be a blur. We have President Aidukaitis from the 70 coming to visit the mission and light a little fire underneath us. The last time he came, last year, he really focused on having faith enough to baptize every weekend on the mission. He talked a lot about the invalidity of excuses and taught us some amazing things that really helped the mission and I am sure that this week is going to be the same. He is going to come with some amazing insight and Elder Menocal and I will be blessed to be able to participate in all the meetings throughout the mission. It is going to be an amazing week. Aside from that we are going strong for beating the record that we set last month in the mission of baptisms and I think this little visit is going to do us real well.
I love you all. I love the faith that you all have. I love that you are all "busy" and that the life is treating you well. The work is moving along in Mendoza Argentina. It is the greatest place on earth!
Love
Elder Burr
Oh and PS What does many grandchildren coming mean?? Olivia is my prophecy fulfilled??
This week was amazing. It wasn't full of amazing miracles like last week, but it was amazing none the less. On Tuesday I spent the entire day... sick. I woke up and was trying to do workouts, but as I was working on the fitness, the inner parts starting doing workouts on me. I Threw up for the first time on the mission and the nurse, the amazing Hermana Packer, wouldn't let me leave the offices. She made me stay in bed with the Secretary who was also sick and she made us rest.. all day. It was by far the most boring thing that I have ever done. Before the mission I loved sitting, but I think my mind has changed. It was seriously torture, but I quickly recovered and now I am feeling good. On Wednesday and Thursday Elder Menocal and I went and did divisions with Zone Leaders in Lujan and helped seal a few baptisms that they were expecting there. I had the chance to work with Elder Passantino, who has become a great friend on the mission, and the two of us together saw miracles. On Friday we had to go pick up a new elder that was coming in, which pretty much occupied the entire day getting everything ready for him and then on Saturday Maria Santos got baptized!! She was the happiest old lady after her baptism. She absolutely loved it and her service turned out to be a huge success. The ward is excited to finally have elders back. They are excited for the change.
This week is going to be a blur. We have President Aidukaitis from the 70 coming to visit the mission and light a little fire underneath us. The last time he came, last year, he really focused on having faith enough to baptize every weekend on the mission. He talked a lot about the invalidity of excuses and taught us some amazing things that really helped the mission and I am sure that this week is going to be the same. He is going to come with some amazing insight and Elder Menocal and I will be blessed to be able to participate in all the meetings throughout the mission. It is going to be an amazing week. Aside from that we are going strong for beating the record that we set last month in the mission of baptisms and I think this little visit is going to do us real well.
I love you all. I love the faith that you all have. I love that you are all "busy" and that the life is treating you well. The work is moving along in Mendoza Argentina. It is the greatest place on earth!
Love
Elder Burr
Oh and PS What does many grandchildren coming mean?? Olivia is my prophecy fulfilled??
Marc's email 10/17/2011
Mother before I forget yes I am recieving your packages and I have loved every single one of them. They have really pretty much saved my life so thank you so much you are the best!! Sounds like the week was pretty boring for you and dad. Didnt really do much huh? I swear that in the past year you guys have maybe been home 2 months... Just livin the dream or something. This past week rained so hard here it was terrible. A hurracane hit Vallarta so we got hammered by the rain and it was freezing. Seems to be that I was on divisions in the middle of no where one of the days and was just walking around in my white shirt about half way frozen. The next day I put on a jacket that Jeny gave me and was just rockin it. Needless to say I was soaking wet for two days straight but it was TIGHT! Just kept on keepin on. A little bit about the week. Nothing too cool happened. Just talked with all the people that have come in from all over the world. There are a lot of americans strolling around this joint looking as tourist as ever. It is pretty funny. This last week my area also had the annual beerfest where the people drink the beer from all over the world. There wasnt much preaching of the Gospel in that place. We have dropped Mayra cause she decided to go to work instead of church so we hardly go with her. It is sad to see but I hope she changes. Also Victor is still way good. We are going with him tomorrow cause he didnt get baptized this last weekend so we are hoping soon. We have worked alot this week and have talked to a lot of people. I am trying to stay animated and work hard and be obedient but it does cost a lot of work but I love the mission and the work of the Lord. I know I am learning and changing and becoming the man He wants me to be. I have gained a strong testimony of repentance and I know the Christ really died for my sins and He is always willing to forgive me as long as I go toHim with a broken heart and contrite spirit. I love you all and hope you are all enjoying life cause I definately am! Keep it real this week
Elder Burr
Elder Burr
Matt's email 10/17/2011
So as the leaves are changing there, I am here enjoying the most beautiful spring that I have ever seen in my life. I can´t even describe how beautiful mendoza is in the springtime. Apparently some volcano errupted a few days ago in Chile and all the ash is in the air making it quite hazy all the time, but it is still amazing. This week was a fantastic one. We had the opportunity to go work with some elders from another zone on divisions and another huge miracle occured. We were working with a 28 year old woman named Silvana. She is a pre school teacher and also studying to become an official licensed teacher, but she has an amazing heart. We met with her in the house of the ward mission leader and the lesson was truly amazing. We started out by asking her what she believed Jesus Christ expected of her. She replied by telling us that Jesus expects that we work for him. That answer really caught my attention so I asked her how we ¨worked¨ for Jesus. She told us that it was by following His commandments. I absolutely loved that answer and it was an amazing entrance into baptism. After talking about the commandment of being baptized for a few minutes I asked her if she would be baptized the 22 of October. She was hesitant on the reply so we decided to pull out the weapons. We turned to Alma 7 and read verses 14 and 15 and as she was reading the scripture she was literally filled with light. It was truly something amazing. After reading she looked at us and said that she felt a burning in her chest... What an INCREDIBLE answer from God. She easily accepted the date and we left her with the commitment to pray. That night, instead of going to school, she decided to continue reading the Book of Mormon and to pray. She read 2 Nephi 31 and then began to pray. She told us the next day that in her prayer she asked God a lot about why she has so many weaknesses and why she passes through so many hard times. As she ended the prayer she picked up the Book of Mormon and turned right to Ether 12! It was unbelievable. She has seen so many miracles in her life and she has no way of denying these things. She knows that they are true and it was so amazing to be able to see her spiritual journey begin in just 2 short visits. I will probably never see her again in my life, but she was someone that has helped me change my life. I love the mission so much. I love seeing so many miracles and being a part of God´s miraculous work. What a blessing.
As for things in Godoy Cruz Centro. Maria Santos, the 71 year old mother of a family, is doing awesome. She has told us that God is calling her to be baptized and she is telling us that we have to write her when she goes back to Peru even though she can´t read. She is amazing. Her life will change so much with baptism.
I am so happy to hear that all is going well at home. I never knew that Chase Hansen was Shea´s cousin. Was he the one that broke his femur? Chris Maughan tells me that he is unreal. He and I talked a ton when I was over there doing divisions and he is just a ball of excitement. The mission is truly amazing. I love you all. Have a great week.
Love,
Elder Burr
As for things in Godoy Cruz Centro. Maria Santos, the 71 year old mother of a family, is doing awesome. She has told us that God is calling her to be baptized and she is telling us that we have to write her when she goes back to Peru even though she can´t read. She is amazing. Her life will change so much with baptism.
I am so happy to hear that all is going well at home. I never knew that Chase Hansen was Shea´s cousin. Was he the one that broke his femur? Chris Maughan tells me that he is unreal. He and I talked a ton when I was over there doing divisions and he is just a ball of excitement. The mission is truly amazing. I love you all. Have a great week.
Love,
Elder Burr
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Marc's email 10/3/2011
Well Hello my fellow family,
Just to start off answering some questions. For the play I had the main role of Miguel Hidalgo. He was apparently bald on top and had some hair on the sides. He was a catholic cura and gave some lets go to war speach. I made the wig from some ladies tights and a white scarf thing. Yeah that was akward walking into the store asking for womens tights but I was a must. I will send another picture from the Noche Mexicana. It was the 16 of Sept. and it is their independence day so we took some investigators to the party. I just went as a cholo with a sombrero and mustache. Mom you should be proud. As for conference.. I loved it. I loved the talk by Elder Holland in the conference session. He was absolutely right and I hope that impacted the hearts of all the young men. Also mom and dad you should be thinking about a mission. That would be way tight. Just leave the house to matt and I. Also the pool and the cars and boat and airplanes and stuff. Dont worry we will take care of it all. Also I was surprised to hear the they will be making the tabernacle center into a temple. That will be tight. I learned so much from conference and I too received another testimony that this is the church of Christ and he is the founder that started this church. We have all of the truth and we have a Prophet that is called of God. He holds the keys to the kingdom of God and he is entitled to power from on High. I also have that power to call down the angels from heaven and act in the name of my God. How grateful I am to have this opportunity. This week we have been teaching Mayra alot and she is doing well. On friday I thought about dropping her but she sent a message on saturday saying she is willing to leave behind her life of sin and put her life in the hands of God. It was an amazing experience and it made me realize once again that God is in this work and that Christ is working along side me. My comp is doing good. Sometimes I have to get on him for stupid stuff he does but he is learning and progressing. We should be having a few more baptisms in these next couple of weeks. Well I am about to go eat at the Sirloin buffet for the birthday of the grandson of Gladys Night. I love you all and am so grateful for your prayers and thoughts on my behalf. Dad work hard and ger er done. Mom dont get lost in all of your crap that you have. Family keep it real and stuff. I love you all.
Elder Burr
Just to start off answering some questions. For the play I had the main role of Miguel Hidalgo. He was apparently bald on top and had some hair on the sides. He was a catholic cura and gave some lets go to war speach. I made the wig from some ladies tights and a white scarf thing. Yeah that was akward walking into the store asking for womens tights but I was a must. I will send another picture from the Noche Mexicana. It was the 16 of Sept. and it is their independence day so we took some investigators to the party. I just went as a cholo with a sombrero and mustache. Mom you should be proud. As for conference.. I loved it. I loved the talk by Elder Holland in the conference session. He was absolutely right and I hope that impacted the hearts of all the young men. Also mom and dad you should be thinking about a mission. That would be way tight. Just leave the house to matt and I. Also the pool and the cars and boat and airplanes and stuff. Dont worry we will take care of it all. Also I was surprised to hear the they will be making the tabernacle center into a temple. That will be tight. I learned so much from conference and I too received another testimony that this is the church of Christ and he is the founder that started this church. We have all of the truth and we have a Prophet that is called of God. He holds the keys to the kingdom of God and he is entitled to power from on High. I also have that power to call down the angels from heaven and act in the name of my God. How grateful I am to have this opportunity. This week we have been teaching Mayra alot and she is doing well. On friday I thought about dropping her but she sent a message on saturday saying she is willing to leave behind her life of sin and put her life in the hands of God. It was an amazing experience and it made me realize once again that God is in this work and that Christ is working along side me. My comp is doing good. Sometimes I have to get on him for stupid stuff he does but he is learning and progressing. We should be having a few more baptisms in these next couple of weeks. Well I am about to go eat at the Sirloin buffet for the birthday of the grandson of Gladys Night. I love you all and am so grateful for your prayers and thoughts on my behalf. Dad work hard and ger er done. Mom dont get lost in all of your crap that you have. Family keep it real and stuff. I love you all.
Elder Burr
Matt's email 10/3/2011
I honestly don´t even know where to begin. I am exhausted from a weeks worth of work and definitely not a week´s worth of sleep, but I am loving it and am somehow finding the energy to get it all done. This past week was full of events. Monday I had the opportunity to go to the going away dinner at President Avila´s house with him, his family, and all the missionaries going home. Among the crowd was Elder Barra, Elder Leal, Elder Harvey and the hermanas that came to the mission when I did. I couldn´t believe it. I am so glad that I am not a sister missionary because the time has gone by way too quick. I am so grateful for the time that I have left on the mission. I am excited to keep changing and seeing miracles. I had the opportunity to listen to Elder Barra´s last testimony on the mission. Let´s just say it didn´t surprise me. I hope he figures it all out. It was amazing to hear Elder Harvey´s dad bear a powerful testimony of the church and hear him repeat the words to the baptismal prayer in spanish. It was something that I will probably never forget. It was hard saying goodbye to some of them, but life here in the mission still keeps going on. On tuesday was the day that I have been looking forward to for the last while which was the arrival of Elder Maughan. It was great being able so see him and talk about some of the good days, but what was even greater was seeing him with a tag on, ready to preach the gospel. Highschool relationships are so much different than mission relationships, and I think that difference really had an impact on me. After that there was a ton of stuff that happened but as of right now I am just more excited to talk about the experiences that I had at conference. First of all I have to say that I loved Elder Callister´s talk on the book of mormon. I remember the talk he gave a while ago about Joseph Smith, which has become one of my all time favorites here on the mission, so I was expecting something big from him, but he ended up blowing my mind spiritually. I felt the spirit so strong in his talk and I felt an undeniable voice reassuring to me that the book of mormon contains the words of God. I know that it was written for us in our day, in order to help us resolve the problems and tribulation that we face in this life. I also LOVED the talk by Sister Dalton. I seriously had desires in that moment to have a daughter some day in my life. It was the first time that I have ever let a talk from a female touch my life, and it changed my whole thought process. It was amazing. I could keep going on for hours about how much I loved conference. Every single talk made an impact on me, but I think one of the most spiritual moments I have ever had in my life was listening to President Monson close the conference and knowing without a doubt in my mind that he really is a Prophet of God and that he talks with Him face to face. He couldn´t have just ¨invented¨ the words that he spoke. He has to have been called from God. I love this church. I love everything about it. I can´t deny the divinity of it. I can´t deny the fact that it was restored by a young boy who had just a simple question. I can´t deny the fact that this mission has changed my life and that it has strenghtened the little testimony I had before the mission and has turned it into the most valuable thing that I possess. Thank you for blessing me so much in this life. I love you all so much.
Elder Burr
Elder Burr
Monday, September 26, 2011
Marc's email 9/26/2011
Well just hittin you up once again on this wonderful Pday. It sounds like you all had a lot of fun this last weekend. Mom has a permaheadache and dad is just chillin trying to get a bite to eat. I am happy to hear that all is well and that dad is still working. It is incredible to see the blessings that you both have recieved through your generosity and your conribution to the building of the Lords kingdom. A little about my area. Yes Mom is has cooled down a lot and I wake up in the morning with the cool air. It hasnt rained for like 2 weeks but it is usually pretty cloudy. Finally giving my nose a break from the dang UV rays that keep jacking me up. Also I cant remember what it feels like to have seasons, I just know hot now days. My area is doing good though. We have several people that we are teaching and we expect a few more baptisms this change. My comp is getting the hang of things. I sometimes have him running behind me cause he still isnt used to walking so much so I have to train him somehow right? I am not going to slow down so he can catch his breathe so he is learning quick. He really tests my patience though. Today I had to clean the whole house by myself while he slept. Yeah I tried to wake him up and yeah I ripped him apart but he just laughed it off. I just let him know that the next week he will be cleaning the house alone. We work good out in the streets but in the house I want to drop him at times but oh well I am sure I will be able to control myself. Yesterday was an interesting day. We had several people in the church but something interesting happened. So a family showed up looking for us. They came from a pueblo like an hour away and came to our church cause it is the one that is on the temple grounds so that came and asked us to do a blessing of a house. We start talking to them and they said that last week a boy committed suicide in the house and it hasnt felt the same. They said they had heard things and were seeing things so we agreed to go out there to bless the house. We showed up and started talking to the family. They were catholics and had a huge frame with the Virgin and candles and stuff. Anyway so I started saying the prayer and it was weird cause I started feeling weird things. That is when I let the spirit take over and if felt like I was on a tower like nephi in 3 nephi when he was praying and all the people were watching. I dont know how to explain it but after the prayer was done I felt so good and the family said their house felt completely different. I dont know what was there or what I felt but I felt the power of the Lord work through me and I loved it. Mayra and her boyfriend went to church. She is awesome and is praying and has received many answers and has felt the spirit. I am thinking that today we will put a baptismal date with her. Also Jeni is still doing good. Her family let her back in the house but her mom just abuses her now and yells at her and doesnt let her leave. She hides her book of mormom though in her coat and reads it every night. She is probably the strongest convert I have ever seen. Also this last weekend we had an activity in the stake center. I was miguel hidalgo and got to give the mexican grito. I just had to get everybody stoked to go to war so it was tight. I just started yelling spanish stuff and telling them all that their country needs them. Yeah never though I would get stuck with the main role of a mexican play but it was way tight. Well family I know this church is true. I know it is the only true church on the earth and the Lord is our leader. We must have the faith in Him to be able to move on. In ether we read that miracles always come after the faith. That is one thing I have learned here on the misison. Always after a trial of faith comes a miracle. I love my God and my mission. I love all of you.
Elder Burr
Elder Burr
Matt's email 9/26/2011
Well this week sure did go by really fast. It was the last week of Elder Harvey and Elder Leal. I don't think they could have had a better week to go out. I started out the week going with Elder Harvey to an area in Valle de Uco. It is an area right up in the Andes mountains where it was just freezing cold. It was awesome though and we helped a few people get excited to get baptized last weekend. It was amazing to see how unexcited some elders are about baptizing. They have people that are so ready for baptizing but it is as if the elders just wait for them to tattoo baptism on their forehead or something. I really don't get it. But it was a great time to go out with the elders and work with them. We came back on Friday morning and then we started helping President with transfers. That took a lot longer than was expected, but last night after a late night at president's house, we finally finished up. So that was a relief. The coolest part of the week happened on saturday. We had the opportunity to go to the airport and pick up the parents of elder harvey. We made a sweet sign for them and everything. It was pretty much the best welcoming a parent could ever ask for. On saturday afternoon we were with them helping them get all checked in to the hotel and went out to eat with them. It was amazing to be with them and feel the love that they brought with them. It really was such an amazing experience but the best part was watching Elder Harvey's dad baptize one of our converts. It was honestly one of the best experiences on the mission. The only thing that Elder Harvey's dad can say in spanish now is the baptismal prayer. It was amazing. They also brought us all sorts of reeses and peanut butter and it was just great. Now that they are gone I am with Elder Menocal from nicaragua and Elder Roche. We are going to have a blast this next transfer. We will be washing an old area of the hermanas which will be a great experience. We are pretty stoked for it all. Other than that not much has happened. It makes me happy everytime I hear that all is well at home and that you are all happy. I couldn't ask for anything more. I love you all and hope you have an incredible week!
Elder Burr
Elder Burr
Marc's email 9/19/2011
Well it sounds like you all had a great week last week. Mom and Dad I
am happy you made it home safe from the deadliest catch. How was it?
Are you going to buy us a yacht now or just keep it real with the
Cobalt? How are P diddy and Kay and Ryan? What is that kid doing with
his life? Mom you shouldnt be tripping all over the place. I feel bad
for you though and hope you are ok! Also mother you shouldnt be
complaining. You were just sittin it out the whole time. Also it
sounds like the house is a little lonely. James and John just spittin
game on the hot chicks. Takin after their cousins huh? Coop just
crackin jokes about his goods and Charlotte runnin the show. It sounds
like a good time back at thugs mansion. Also I was happy to receive
the letter from kade. I had been thinking about him alot lately and I
am happy he is doing good and tearing it up. It really is awesome to
see the change is us as young men. The Lord puts us through the
wringer for two years and we end up being exactly what He wants us to
be. I am so grateful for this opportunity. Anyway a little about this
week. We baptized gregorio this weekend which was awesome. My kid got
his first baptism his first week in the mission so I hope he is happy.
His name is Elder Hernandez and he is just another Dallin Stone. He is
pretty cool though and we get along well. I love being a trainer
though and I love being able to teach a new missionary how to work. I
know I am not the best missionary in the world but I know that I can
teach him what I know and hope he turns out good. We have several
people that we are teaching. One girl that we are teaching now is
named Mayra and she is awesome. She showed up at the church a few
weeks ago by herself looking for something better. We got to talking
with he and this last week she told her boyfriend she couldnt live
with him anymore. She has had a hard life. When she was younger she
was a drug addict and an emo. She has scars all on her arms from when
she used to cut herself and even has tattoos on her wrist with the
scissors and the dashed lines that say "cut here".. She has felt the
love of Christ though and is now in the process of changing her life.
Also Jeni got kicked out of her house this week because her mom is
crazy so we have been talking with her a lot. She wrote me a letter
thanking me for the things we taught her and telling me that she
wouldnt give up the gospel for anything in this world. She is a great
convert and I know she will be blessed for her trials. Pretty much the
Lord has worked miracles in my area. I have seen His hand in this work
and I know He is the Son of the living God. I know that this gospel
changes lives. It has changed my life and the lives of many people of
whom I serve and love. As long as we are willing to let the atonement
of the Lord work in our lives, He will make us into the people He
wants us to be. He knows we all make mistakes and He knows these
mistakes make us hurt. That is why He suffered and died for us.
Through His suffering and pain we are all saved. I love the Savior
with all of my heart and am grateful for His life and His love. I am
grateful for all of you and your support and love towards me. I am
grateful for my family and my parents. I love you all.
Elder Burr
am happy you made it home safe from the deadliest catch. How was it?
Are you going to buy us a yacht now or just keep it real with the
Cobalt? How are P diddy and Kay and Ryan? What is that kid doing with
his life? Mom you shouldnt be tripping all over the place. I feel bad
for you though and hope you are ok! Also mother you shouldnt be
complaining. You were just sittin it out the whole time. Also it
sounds like the house is a little lonely. James and John just spittin
game on the hot chicks. Takin after their cousins huh? Coop just
crackin jokes about his goods and Charlotte runnin the show. It sounds
like a good time back at thugs mansion. Also I was happy to receive
the letter from kade. I had been thinking about him alot lately and I
am happy he is doing good and tearing it up. It really is awesome to
see the change is us as young men. The Lord puts us through the
wringer for two years and we end up being exactly what He wants us to
be. I am so grateful for this opportunity. Anyway a little about this
week. We baptized gregorio this weekend which was awesome. My kid got
his first baptism his first week in the mission so I hope he is happy.
His name is Elder Hernandez and he is just another Dallin Stone. He is
pretty cool though and we get along well. I love being a trainer
though and I love being able to teach a new missionary how to work. I
know I am not the best missionary in the world but I know that I can
teach him what I know and hope he turns out good. We have several
people that we are teaching. One girl that we are teaching now is
named Mayra and she is awesome. She showed up at the church a few
weeks ago by herself looking for something better. We got to talking
with he and this last week she told her boyfriend she couldnt live
with him anymore. She has had a hard life. When she was younger she
was a drug addict and an emo. She has scars all on her arms from when
she used to cut herself and even has tattoos on her wrist with the
scissors and the dashed lines that say "cut here".. She has felt the
love of Christ though and is now in the process of changing her life.
Also Jeni got kicked out of her house this week because her mom is
crazy so we have been talking with her a lot. She wrote me a letter
thanking me for the things we taught her and telling me that she
wouldnt give up the gospel for anything in this world. She is a great
convert and I know she will be blessed for her trials. Pretty much the
Lord has worked miracles in my area. I have seen His hand in this work
and I know He is the Son of the living God. I know that this gospel
changes lives. It has changed my life and the lives of many people of
whom I serve and love. As long as we are willing to let the atonement
of the Lord work in our lives, He will make us into the people He
wants us to be. He knows we all make mistakes and He knows these
mistakes make us hurt. That is why He suffered and died for us.
Through His suffering and pain we are all saved. I love the Savior
with all of my heart and am grateful for His life and His love. I am
grateful for all of you and your support and love towards me. I am
grateful for my family and my parents. I love you all.
Elder Burr
Matt's email 9/19/2011
So here you have 5 of the latest pictures of Elder Burr. The first couple are of when we were up in Chimbas and the last couple are of the baptism of Viviana and Abril. It was a very good week that Elder Roche and I were able to have. We started it all out by going back up to Chimbas, San Juan to help out some Elders that were struggling with some of the investigators that they had. We spent a lot of time talking with dads, trying to get permission from them to baptize their kids, and some were easier than others. I had the good luck of talking to one of the dads while he was at work. He was working on pulling out nails of a wooden beam and he seemed surprised to see us. He came and we started talking to him. I told him the purpose of our visit was to get his permission to baptize his daughter. Apparently like 10 years ago some elders were working with him and his family and they assumed they had his permission without even asking him so he wasn't too excited to give it to us. He told us he was going to give his daughter his point of view of the church and then he was going to see if he would give permission. Let's just say that sometimes missionaries think they are doing something good, when really they are ruining the paths for the future. It is something really sad to see, but sometimes numbers staart to run their heads. We ended up the trip with 6 ready to get in the water, so it wasn't all a failure. we then came back to Mendoza for the baptism of Viviana and Abril and everything turned out to be perfect with them. I was so excited to see them take such an important step in their lives.
We just barely got back from running with Harvey Leal and Roche and let's just say I have never run further in my life. Hopefully my legs don't fall off tonight because at the moment, that is what they feel like. I love you all and thanks for all your support and emails. I love reading them, even though I am not very good at replying. Mom, I got a package with a sick t shirt in it. Let's just say I'm living the dream to the fullest out here!!!! I love you. Have a great week!
Elder Burr
We just barely got back from running with Harvey Leal and Roche and let's just say I have never run further in my life. Hopefully my legs don't fall off tonight because at the moment, that is what they feel like. I love you all and thanks for all your support and emails. I love reading them, even though I am not very good at replying. Mom, I got a package with a sick t shirt in it. Let's just say I'm living the dream to the fullest out here!!!! I love you. Have a great week!
Elder Burr
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Marc's email 9/5/2011
hello mom and dad and family its just me checkin in from another week
of hard work and dedication. This week was a way good week actually.
So a few weeks ago we ran into one of our contacts in the street and
she came up and started talking to us. She told us that she wanted us
to go back over to her house and teach her. Her name is Jeni and she
is 20 years old. She has been smoking since she was 13 and has always
wanted to stop but never found the way. We went to her house and
taught her the word of wisdom the first lesson and since then she
hasnt smoked. It has been two weeks now. We have been going with her
about three times a week and yesterday in the church we gave her a
baptismal date. She will be baptized this saturday. Last night she
sent us a text asking us to pray for her cause apparently her mom, who
is catholic, doesnt talk to her and says she isnt worthy of God. She
knows she is following the example of Christ and she knows she has
received many answers from Him so she is going to put her faith in the
Lord and get baptized despite all of the comments from her family. It
is incredible to see people change their lives and put their future in
the hands of the Lord. This young girl has recognized that she is a
daughter of God and she has helped me so much to strengthen my faith.
Also this sunday we had so many new people come into the church it
isnt even funny. The whole time we were running around with the
members and meeting their friends then people would want pictures with
us then more people would show up with the security guards and it was
just insane but way good. I have learned so much and seen so many
miracles and I know the Lord follows through with His promises. We
have the goal to contact 180 people every week which is a hard goal to
reach but I have gone 4 weeks now of reaching that goal and even
though we havent found our investigators contacting the Lord has seen
our work and I know he is preparing people here and rewarding us for
the work that we have done. So we have several people in teaching and
are actually starting to baptize here in Estancia so I am way happy. I
ask for your prayers on behalf of my area and district. It sounds like
you are all busy and just living the dream. Also dad finally bought a mountain
bike??? What in the world.. He always used to get mad at me for going
to the gym and doing exercise but now he is just hittin up the alpine
trail huh? Thats way tight dad congratulations! Ill come home in a
year and follow you in the truck like you did with us on the 50 mile
bike trip. Also cam and ashley. Congratulations on the new kid that is
cookin in the oven! That took me off guard but that is way tight. Man
you guys must get bored in st. George or something! Alright well
everybody I love you all and am grateful for your prayers and support.
Mom I have gotten one package since I have ben here and I dont
remember when you sent it. I think July. I know this church is true
and that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. I know Christ is at the
head of this church and this truly is His kingdom here on the earth. I
am honored to be His representative here in my area. I know that
prayer is real and that we all have a personal relationship with our
Heavenly Father and I know He knows all of us. We are His children. I
love you all and hope you all have a great week.
Elder Burr
of hard work and dedication. This week was a way good week actually.
So a few weeks ago we ran into one of our contacts in the street and
she came up and started talking to us. She told us that she wanted us
to go back over to her house and teach her. Her name is Jeni and she
is 20 years old. She has been smoking since she was 13 and has always
wanted to stop but never found the way. We went to her house and
taught her the word of wisdom the first lesson and since then she
hasnt smoked. It has been two weeks now. We have been going with her
about three times a week and yesterday in the church we gave her a
baptismal date. She will be baptized this saturday. Last night she
sent us a text asking us to pray for her cause apparently her mom, who
is catholic, doesnt talk to her and says she isnt worthy of God. She
knows she is following the example of Christ and she knows she has
received many answers from Him so she is going to put her faith in the
Lord and get baptized despite all of the comments from her family. It
is incredible to see people change their lives and put their future in
the hands of the Lord. This young girl has recognized that she is a
daughter of God and she has helped me so much to strengthen my faith.
Also this sunday we had so many new people come into the church it
isnt even funny. The whole time we were running around with the
members and meeting their friends then people would want pictures with
us then more people would show up with the security guards and it was
just insane but way good. I have learned so much and seen so many
miracles and I know the Lord follows through with His promises. We
have the goal to contact 180 people every week which is a hard goal to
reach but I have gone 4 weeks now of reaching that goal and even
though we havent found our investigators contacting the Lord has seen
our work and I know he is preparing people here and rewarding us for
the work that we have done. So we have several people in teaching and
are actually starting to baptize here in Estancia so I am way happy. I
ask for your prayers on behalf of my area and district. It sounds like
you are all busy and just living the dream. Also dad finally bought a mountain
bike??? What in the world.. He always used to get mad at me for going
to the gym and doing exercise but now he is just hittin up the alpine
trail huh? Thats way tight dad congratulations! Ill come home in a
year and follow you in the truck like you did with us on the 50 mile
bike trip. Also cam and ashley. Congratulations on the new kid that is
cookin in the oven! That took me off guard but that is way tight. Man
you guys must get bored in st. George or something! Alright well
everybody I love you all and am grateful for your prayers and support.
Mom I have gotten one package since I have ben here and I dont
remember when you sent it. I think July. I know this church is true
and that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. I know Christ is at the
head of this church and this truly is His kingdom here on the earth. I
am honored to be His representative here in my area. I know that
prayer is real and that we all have a personal relationship with our
Heavenly Father and I know He knows all of us. We are His children. I
love you all and hope you all have a great week.
Elder Burr
Matt's email 9/5/2011
Ohhh man it was atiring week. I can´t believe it´s already time to email again. The week seemed like it just upped and bounced on me without waving. Last monday we had some of the zone leaders come to the office pench to be a little closer for the training meeting we had on tuesday. I got to see Elder Huntington again which was great and I found out that one of the ladies that we were teaching together, Lily, was baptized last weekend! Even though I wasn´t there to see it, I was still really excited to hear the great news. On Tuesday we had the zone leaders all up for a consejo that pretty much lasted all day long. Elder Harvey, Leal and I talked a lot about goals in our lives and the importance that they have for us. We also showed a great movie from mormon ads about a P51 pilot and his experience in the airplane. He talked a lot about not getting vertigo and the importance of following the wing of your companion. He also talked about the rules and commandments in life are like your instruments inside the airplane. If you are true to them and trust them, you will always be able to stay oriented. It was a great teaching device and the missionaries got excited after seeing it. We also put, as a goal in the mission, 125 baptisms in the month of september. We are all really excited to reach it and the mission is being blessed so much right now. On wednesday we had a training capacitacion with all the zone leaders and the district leaders and Elder Harvey and I were able to talk about the doctrine of Christ. It was great to be with all of them, but it was also great to see them all leave and go to work. After them, we had a meeting with all the trainers and their companions. It was basically to see how they were doing and how their new companions are becoming accustomed to this place. President Avila worries about them a lot and wants to see all the missionaries succeed in their callings. We then had pretty much the whole weekend to work in our area, which was an awesome time to practice what we had taught. We committed two people to baptism for this saturday and 2 more for the saturday to come. God is blessing us so much in our area and it is such a great blessing. Today we woke up and Elder Harvey, Elder Roché, Elder Leal, Elder Ostler, Elder Boisados and I all ran a 5k race. It was great to get out and get tired ha ha. It felt awesome.
This week we have some new elders coming in so we will be doing all the preparatives for them which means for the next few days we will be pretty busy. I will send some pictures next week with some people dressed in white!! I love you all and hope you have a fantastic week!
Elder Burr
This week we have some new elders coming in so we will be doing all the preparatives for them which means for the next few days we will be pretty busy. I will send some pictures next week with some people dressed in white!! I love you all and hope you have a fantastic week!
Elder Burr
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Marc's email 8/30/2011
Alright well this email is going to be quick cause I dont seem to have
any time. Today we went to the temple so yesterday we didnt have the
Pday. That is why I am writing today. The temple was awesome today and
I got the opportunindad to do my first session in spanish. It was so
nice to just be able to think of the Lord in His house and listen to
the promptings of the spirit. It is exactly what I needed at this
point in the mission. A little bit about the area. I got another new
companion named elder Avila and he is pretty tight. We had special
changes and so buckwheat got transfered out and I got him. He is
pretty dead and I know the Pres. stuck me with him so he didnt start
wasting his time. We are working hard though and teaching a lot of
people. The Lord has finally started to bless us with a ton of new
people that actually want to listen tho this lesson so i am way hapy.
After 9 weeks of straight looking and knocking doors we are finally
seeing the blessings. I know that the Lord alwsays blesses us after
the trials of our fiaaith. That is what He was doing to me and I am so
grateful for the trials He always gives me. That is when I feel like I
am a real representative of His Son. This next week I will give you
fmore details cause right now i have to plan the district class and
still have a ton of stuff I have to do. I love you mom and dad and
family and hope you have a great week.Thank you for all of your
prayers on my behalf. thank you for everything. ç
elder Burr
any time. Today we went to the temple so yesterday we didnt have the
Pday. That is why I am writing today. The temple was awesome today and
I got the opportunindad to do my first session in spanish. It was so
nice to just be able to think of the Lord in His house and listen to
the promptings of the spirit. It is exactly what I needed at this
point in the mission. A little bit about the area. I got another new
companion named elder Avila and he is pretty tight. We had special
changes and so buckwheat got transfered out and I got him. He is
pretty dead and I know the Pres. stuck me with him so he didnt start
wasting his time. We are working hard though and teaching a lot of
people. The Lord has finally started to bless us with a ton of new
people that actually want to listen tho this lesson so i am way hapy.
After 9 weeks of straight looking and knocking doors we are finally
seeing the blessings. I know that the Lord alwsays blesses us after
the trials of our fiaaith. That is what He was doing to me and I am so
grateful for the trials He always gives me. That is when I feel like I
am a real representative of His Son. This next week I will give you
fmore details cause right now i have to plan the district class and
still have a ton of stuff I have to do. I love you mom and dad and
family and hope you have a great week.Thank you for all of your
prayers on my behalf. thank you for everything. ç
elder Burr
Monday, August 29, 2011
Matt's email 8/29/2011
This week was just a great one. We started out by sending off some of the old guys which was great. It is awkward, however, sitting with all of them in the house of President and his family as they all eat their last dinner and share their final testimonies here in Argentina. It's..... different, but it makes me want to work just that much harder for the time that I have here. I don't know if I have told you, but the two assistants that I am with are both leaving at the end of this transfer so I pretty much have to figure out all this business before they pack up their bags and head out. There is a lot to learn, but it all comes by grabbing the bull by the horns. This week I also had the awesome opportunity to go for a drive with President Avila and show him nascar moves. I was more nervous for that drive than I was for my test flight with that wonderfull FAA woman, but President gave me the ok which means that I can now drive here in Argentina. It's going to be different because nobody here has ever learned how to drive and they all do whatever they want, but we will see how it all goes. Good thing the seat belts work good right?
This weekend was awesome. Elder Harvey and I were out looking up inactive members with the ward list and we came across a family that hadn't been to church in a really long time. At first they didn't want to let us in, but after some salesman technique, they finally let us in and we saw why they were so reluctant. On the table they had a huge bottle of beer and cigarrettes were littering the floor. It really was an aweful sight to see what they had done with the covenant that they had made with God at baptism, but for that reason Jesus suffered all they he did, so that we could be forgiven of our mistakes. We left them with a little message and said we were going to pass by on saturday again to meet the kids that aren't baptized. We showed up on Saturday and had a great lesson with all of them then committed ourselves to bringing waffles yesterday morning to help them come to church. We showed up at 8 with the waffles and they were all waiting for us, ready to eat some fantastic waffles! It was seriously a little miracle that we were able to see. We showed up to church and met up with some other great investigators that we had there and it turned out to be a great meeting, which is always a sigh of relief. So despite all the added responsibility, I just want to say that all is going well and the work hasn't stopped. I love this work. I think I have become addicted to knocking doors and being in awkward situations, but it's a great addiction right?
This weekend was awesome. Elder Harvey and I were out looking up inactive members with the ward list and we came across a family that hadn't been to church in a really long time. At first they didn't want to let us in, but after some salesman technique, they finally let us in and we saw why they were so reluctant. On the table they had a huge bottle of beer and cigarrettes were littering the floor. It really was an aweful sight to see what they had done with the covenant that they had made with God at baptism, but for that reason Jesus suffered all they he did, so that we could be forgiven of our mistakes. We left them with a little message and said we were going to pass by on saturday again to meet the kids that aren't baptized. We showed up on Saturday and had a great lesson with all of them then committed ourselves to bringing waffles yesterday morning to help them come to church. We showed up at 8 with the waffles and they were all waiting for us, ready to eat some fantastic waffles! It was seriously a little miracle that we were able to see. We showed up to church and met up with some other great investigators that we had there and it turned out to be a great meeting, which is always a sigh of relief. So despite all the added responsibility, I just want to say that all is going well and the work hasn't stopped. I love this work. I think I have become addicted to knocking doors and being in awkward situations, but it's a great addiction right?
Marc's email 8/22/2011
Hello Mother it is just me checkin it again and stuff. I will start
out with a summary of my week. Well it started out with us finding a
tight family that has accepted us really well. The mom is named
genoveva and she has two kids. She told us she has been praying lately
and asking for a miracle and when we showed up she knew that miracle
had been fulfilled. She has had many trials in her life but she is
willing to change and do the things the Lord wants her to do. We found
her contacting so that is a miracle in and of itself. I am way happy
to have found her and I know this is a blessing for the hard work and
sacrifice we have put in. Also this week we had the zone conference
which was way good. It started out with the hermana talking for an
hour about how we need to take care of ourselves and start out every
day with some fruit. She explained that before eating anything we
should eat the fruits and veggies first then the real food. Then she
made us all put our hands on the table so she could check our
fingernails.... i think she was making sure we cut them or something.
Then she kept going on about how to do laundry and a whole bunch of
stuff like that. I was pretty bored to be honest haha but then the
Pres talked about trust in the Lord and some of the goals we have. We
have some high goals but also some high promises so I know that the
Lord will help us. Then after everything he pulled me aside and moved
me up to district leader so I am pretty stoked about all of this.
Elder Black from Mapleton is in my district and the district is pretty
tight. There is only one district in the zone so I am also pretty much
zone leader. I know that this is my chance that I have to show the
Lord my true dedication and love. Overall this week was way good. We
have just been working hard and trying to find people. We have seen
many miracles and have had many people tell us that we have something
different. Although they dont want to change I know I represent my
Saviour Jesus Christ. I know all He wanted to do was teach people the
Gospel and even He had people reject Him. I cant complain, I am in the
work of the Lord. I love my calling and I love all of you. Mom and Dad
I hope you have fun in Powell just sittin. Other family members that
are too busy to write me I hope you are all keepin it real and working
hard. I hope everybody is enjoying life and always remembering about
our Redeemer who is Jesus Christ. I love Him and all of you. I hope
you all have a great week.
Elder Burr
out with a summary of my week. Well it started out with us finding a
tight family that has accepted us really well. The mom is named
genoveva and she has two kids. She told us she has been praying lately
and asking for a miracle and when we showed up she knew that miracle
had been fulfilled. She has had many trials in her life but she is
willing to change and do the things the Lord wants her to do. We found
her contacting so that is a miracle in and of itself. I am way happy
to have found her and I know this is a blessing for the hard work and
sacrifice we have put in. Also this week we had the zone conference
which was way good. It started out with the hermana talking for an
hour about how we need to take care of ourselves and start out every
day with some fruit. She explained that before eating anything we
should eat the fruits and veggies first then the real food. Then she
made us all put our hands on the table so she could check our
fingernails.... i think she was making sure we cut them or something.
Then she kept going on about how to do laundry and a whole bunch of
stuff like that. I was pretty bored to be honest haha but then the
Pres talked about trust in the Lord and some of the goals we have. We
have some high goals but also some high promises so I know that the
Lord will help us. Then after everything he pulled me aside and moved
me up to district leader so I am pretty stoked about all of this.
Elder Black from Mapleton is in my district and the district is pretty
tight. There is only one district in the zone so I am also pretty much
zone leader. I know that this is my chance that I have to show the
Lord my true dedication and love. Overall this week was way good. We
have just been working hard and trying to find people. We have seen
many miracles and have had many people tell us that we have something
different. Although they dont want to change I know I represent my
Saviour Jesus Christ. I know all He wanted to do was teach people the
Gospel and even He had people reject Him. I cant complain, I am in the
work of the Lord. I love my calling and I love all of you. Mom and Dad
I hope you have fun in Powell just sittin. Other family members that
are too busy to write me I hope you are all keepin it real and working
hard. I hope everybody is enjoying life and always remembering about
our Redeemer who is Jesus Christ. I love Him and all of you. I hope
you all have a great week.
Elder Burr
Matt's email 8/22/2011
Oh don´t you worry, we will have plenty to keep us busy here. This
past week was just full of different events, but it all ended out
great and we got to work in our area for more than half of the week so
it was awesome. The area that we are assigned to is just a gold mine.
We have found some great people this week and many of them made the
leap of faith by coming to church. There are great members here that
are so excited for the missionarywork. I honestly get more excited for
being in such a great area than I do for being here with President. I
have come to know of the love that he has for this mission and the
excitement that he carries for us. He really is such a great man and
his heart is huge. While we were at the airport waiting for the new
missionaries, he decided to buy us whatever we wanted at the
restaurant in the airport. Everything was super expensive, but the
price just didn´t matter to him. He reminds me a lot of you mom and
dad and that love that you always had for me as your little boy. You
are such awesome examples for me.
I am having such a fun time here on the mission. Everyday I just go
out and have a blast and I absolutely love it. Today for P day we went
to the zoo just me and two other companions. It was just the 3 of us
dressed in suits, but it was still hilarious. I have learned how to
make every moment into the best moment. There have been times where I
have wanted to just kill something, but I have always tried to be
positive and happy and it has always worked out for the best.
I heard a quote that hit me really hard this week. The is not a higher
place on this planet than being on your knees praying to God. I am so
thankful for the power of prayer and the consolation that it brings
into my life and the life of our investigators. I have seen grown men
brought to tears by the miraculous power of prayer and have realized
that God really is the Master of all and that we are his finest
creations. I just want you to know that I love you all and I am
continually taken away by your amazing faith and support on my behalf.
I know I leave some of you hangin on the email replies, but please
forgive me and know that I am doing great and I am happier than I have
ever been!
past week was just full of different events, but it all ended out
great and we got to work in our area for more than half of the week so
it was awesome. The area that we are assigned to is just a gold mine.
We have found some great people this week and many of them made the
leap of faith by coming to church. There are great members here that
are so excited for the missionarywork. I honestly get more excited for
being in such a great area than I do for being here with President. I
have come to know of the love that he has for this mission and the
excitement that he carries for us. He really is such a great man and
his heart is huge. While we were at the airport waiting for the new
missionaries, he decided to buy us whatever we wanted at the
restaurant in the airport. Everything was super expensive, but the
price just didn´t matter to him. He reminds me a lot of you mom and
dad and that love that you always had for me as your little boy. You
are such awesome examples for me.
I am having such a fun time here on the mission. Everyday I just go
out and have a blast and I absolutely love it. Today for P day we went
to the zoo just me and two other companions. It was just the 3 of us
dressed in suits, but it was still hilarious. I have learned how to
make every moment into the best moment. There have been times where I
have wanted to just kill something, but I have always tried to be
positive and happy and it has always worked out for the best.
I heard a quote that hit me really hard this week. The is not a higher
place on this planet than being on your knees praying to God. I am so
thankful for the power of prayer and the consolation that it brings
into my life and the life of our investigators. I have seen grown men
brought to tears by the miraculous power of prayer and have realized
that God really is the Master of all and that we are his finest
creations. I just want you to know that I love you all and I am
continually taken away by your amazing faith and support on my behalf.
I know I leave some of you hangin on the email replies, but please
forgive me and know that I am doing great and I am happier than I have
ever been!
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Marc's email 8/15/2011
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!! In a few days anyway. I dont know if you have
forgotten about your birthday cause you have been so busy but your
bday is just around the corner. The big 50... Thats not too young by
the way. Its alright everybody has to reach that point in their life.
This week was another good week here in Guady. Elder
Carrasco got sent home 4 weeks early so now Elder Martinez and I are
just kickin it. We contacted over 180 people this last week and really
didnt find any new people to teach. It is a struggle here in Estancia
but we are looking and putting our trust and faith in the Lord and I
know we will find some families soon. This message is just too
important to deny and it will touch the hearts of the people that the
Lord has prepared. As His missionary I just need to stay obedient and
work as hard as I know how and I know He will bless me with success.
This week I read a tight little story type thing and it has made me
think alot. I am going to summarize it a little bit. So it talks about
his guy that enters into a file room. He sees a wall that is
completely filled with file cabinets and he starts pulling out the
file cabinets. He opened the one titled "Girls I have liked" and
started reading the names. He realized that he knew every girl and
then realized he was in the file room of his life. He later saw the
file titled "Lies I have told", " People I have disrespected" and many
other files. He also reads the file named "People I have shared the
Gospel with". He starts reading the files and starts feeling the
regret and remorse of all of the things this man has done in his life.
He pulls out the files and tries to tear them in half but realizes he
cant. He then realizes that the files are written with exact details
in the mans own hand writing. At the bottom of every card is his
signature. He starts feeling embarrassed and sad and when He looks up
he sees the Savior. The Savior also has a face of agony, pain,
sadness, but love. He gives the man a hug and takes all of the cards.
The man pleads with Him to leave him alone for the feelings he is
feeling. The Saviour, in His infinate love, takes every card and signs
His signature in blood over the mans signature. The man leaves the
room and realizes the door does not have a lock on it. It doesnt have
a lock because the man still has to live his life. I learned so much
through this story and have thought about my own life. I hope you can
all think about your "File room" and the things that are written on
your cards. The Saviour has paid the price for the remission of our
sins but we must plead forgiveness. He has bled for me so that I might
be cleansed from sin and He is always waiting for us to return to Him.
His arms of mercy are always extended towards those who are willing to
change and those who want to come unto Him. This is the love that He
has for us. I have felt this love so much in my mission and cant deny
that He lives. No I have not seen Him but I have heard Him and I have
felt His presence. I know He lives and I know He loves us. I hope you
never forget the life a man that lived so perfectly. I love Him and
know that I am helping Him in the vineyard. I am so grateful for the
church that He put on this earth and for the plan that He has for us.
My only hope in this life is to be able to return to Him together with
my loved ones. I hope all is well back at home and that you are all
living the dream. I am loving it out here and wouldnt want to be
anywhere else. I love you all and will talk to you next week. Peace out.
Elder Burr
forgotten about your birthday cause you have been so busy but your
bday is just around the corner. The big 50... Thats not too young by
the way. Its alright everybody has to reach that point in their life.
This week was another good week here in Guady. Elder
Carrasco got sent home 4 weeks early so now Elder Martinez and I are
just kickin it. We contacted over 180 people this last week and really
didnt find any new people to teach. It is a struggle here in Estancia
but we are looking and putting our trust and faith in the Lord and I
know we will find some families soon. This message is just too
important to deny and it will touch the hearts of the people that the
Lord has prepared. As His missionary I just need to stay obedient and
work as hard as I know how and I know He will bless me with success.
This week I read a tight little story type thing and it has made me
think alot. I am going to summarize it a little bit. So it talks about
his guy that enters into a file room. He sees a wall that is
completely filled with file cabinets and he starts pulling out the
file cabinets. He opened the one titled "Girls I have liked" and
started reading the names. He realized that he knew every girl and
then realized he was in the file room of his life. He later saw the
file titled "Lies I have told", " People I have disrespected" and many
other files. He also reads the file named "People I have shared the
Gospel with". He starts reading the files and starts feeling the
regret and remorse of all of the things this man has done in his life.
He pulls out the files and tries to tear them in half but realizes he
cant. He then realizes that the files are written with exact details
in the mans own hand writing. At the bottom of every card is his
signature. He starts feeling embarrassed and sad and when He looks up
he sees the Savior. The Savior also has a face of agony, pain,
sadness, but love. He gives the man a hug and takes all of the cards.
The man pleads with Him to leave him alone for the feelings he is
feeling. The Saviour, in His infinate love, takes every card and signs
His signature in blood over the mans signature. The man leaves the
room and realizes the door does not have a lock on it. It doesnt have
a lock because the man still has to live his life. I learned so much
through this story and have thought about my own life. I hope you can
all think about your "File room" and the things that are written on
your cards. The Saviour has paid the price for the remission of our
sins but we must plead forgiveness. He has bled for me so that I might
be cleansed from sin and He is always waiting for us to return to Him.
His arms of mercy are always extended towards those who are willing to
change and those who want to come unto Him. This is the love that He
has for us. I have felt this love so much in my mission and cant deny
that He lives. No I have not seen Him but I have heard Him and I have
felt His presence. I know He lives and I know He loves us. I hope you
never forget the life a man that lived so perfectly. I love Him and
know that I am helping Him in the vineyard. I am so grateful for the
church that He put on this earth and for the plan that He has for us.
My only hope in this life is to be able to return to Him together with
my loved ones. I hope all is well back at home and that you are all
living the dream. I am loving it out here and wouldnt want to be
anywhere else. I love you all and will talk to you next week. Peace out.
Elder Burr
Matt's email 8/15/2011
So this week was one full of surprises and new beginnings. I will have to tell it all very short because we are about to leave and go to President´s house to eat dinner with all the old missionaries but pretty much I got a call on Friday from President Avila telling me that he wanted me to be the next assistant in the mission. At first I didn´t believe him, but he then told me I had about an hour to get all my bags ready and start heading to mendoza in the mission car. So pretty much I left a bunch of work in Amppya and headed down to mendoza to start another page of my mission. On saturday we had to do transfers, which was just an adventure, and today we are calling all the zone leaders to let them know. Tomorrow we are going to receive like 18 new missionaries which means we will have training meetings and airport runs and interviews with president and all that good stuff... It is going to be a lot of work, but I am loving it so far. We have an area that we work in that is a gold mine and in just 1 day of work we have found some great people to work on towards baptism. I am so grateful for this new opportunity to serve the Lord in Mendoza and I will do my best to serve Him with all my heart might mind and strength. Hopefully next week I have some more time to write and fill you all in. I love you all and hope you all have a splendid week!! You are all my heroes!!
Marc's email 8/8/2011
Hey mom garbage taker downer lady how are you? Just your boy elder Burr checkin in from Guady leanin like a cholo. It sounds like your week last week was a tight one. Did you ever have a headache and want to run away? How are Ben and Olivia and their family doing/ How is cam liking St George? That is a lot of news from the ward and I cant believe that the Hansen triplets finished their mission already. That flew by. Matt will be home tomorrow at this rate and I might be home the next day. It is unreal. It also sounds like the shopping days for you might get a little better with the blessings you and dad are raking in. Dont spend all of those benjamins on stupid stuff. Remember to save some for my lazer hair removal. That is awesome though that we are receiving those blessings. We all know why, when we are out here building the Lords Kingdom, He always helps us build ours. Just remember that pride comes with money so dont let that get out of hand. A little bit about the week we had. Elder Carrasco and I just worked like Mexicans here trying to find people to teach and to baptize. It is hard cause the people are too lazy to come to the door so they just talk to us through their doorbell/camera/microphone thing and tell us no. It is pretty discouraging but I know the Lord is going to help us this week. We are going to baptize Liliana this week but she needs your prayers. She wants to get baptized but her husband is just an alcoholic that is always saying he doesnt believe it and he will never pay tithing and the church is just a business. On top of that she has the TJ's going over there saying that the prophet gets paid. I hate the JW's they are so annoying. They are like the fly that is always landing on and getting in your eyes when you are trying to work. I dont know why the Lord just doesnt destroy all of them in their wickedness so they can stop bugging us! ITs alright though the Spirit of the Lord is always with us and that is all we need. Also this week we have a kid that is going to be with us all day everyday cause he wants to do everything we do for a week. We will see if he doesnt start complaining tomorrow from blisters on his feet. Well everything here is going really well. I know this is the Lords work and He is blessing all of us. I know this church is true and it is the only true church. I love my Savior and everything He did for me. I cant wait for the day that I enter His presence to live with Him and my family forever. I love all of you and hope you can all feel the Saviours love this week. I feel His presence every moment and I love it. Well I am out until next week. I love you all
Elder Burr
Elder Burr
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