Last Week Miracles | A New Chapter (Week 59)

What a week!! :D

Despite the many difficulties we had in the area these last few weeks and the disappointments, this week was a week of JOY and MIRACLES!

So, let's flash back a few weeks to little Leo and his family. His mother had stopped accepting our visits and stopped him from going to church due to comments from evangelical family members. This last week we visited her on a night that there was a blackout in the neighbourhood and under the candle light we left a few scriptures and a prayer. She told us that she was having a lot of pain in her arm from her work and we gave her a priesthood blessing. Straight after the prayer she moved her shoulder in what seemed relief and thanked us for the visit. She apologised for her "rebelious phase".

We continued visiting her and her pain was gone completely. She began to accept us in her home once again and we began to see her spirit be lifted and lightened from her burdens. On a certain day, we left a message and as it was my last week in the area I said: "Arlita, it would be a pleasure to be able to baptise your daughter in my last week here." Leo's sister, Laura, had gone to church various times with Leo and I felt prompted to invite once again. Without hesitation she replied: "Yes, I'll be there to watch the baptism." It truly was a miracle. :)

Imagine our JOY on Sunday morning when we saw them walking to church as a family. The baptism was wonderful and Arlita felt the spirit very strongly. Leo and Laura are being little faithful pioneers in their family and I'm certain the rest of the family will soon follow their example. :)

This week we were also privileged to see the change in Sergio's life. He read the Book of Mormon everyday and accepted all the commandments. He shared with us his desire to one day serve a full-time mission. He is on the age limit to go but his desire will get him there! :) With Sergio and his sister Ilda I was reminded of the importance of sharing the gospel with family members. It's something so simple and an act of love that can cause a huge change in someones life. OPEN YOUR MOUTHS AND SHARE THE GOSPEL! :D

Thanks to your prayers, we had the baptisms of Wanderlei, Arllon and Maycon - three of the children in that big family! :) Their parents had placed some doubts in their mind but we talked with the whole family together and removed some of their doubts. They were all ready when we went to pick them up and their baptism was also a very special moment. :)

On Sunday night I had the opportunity to say goodbye to several families who I was able to help in my time here. It was touching to see that I have been able to bless the lives of these humble and special people. Above of all, trying to help these people I have become more converted and I have left the area of Jardim Modelo with my spirit nourished and strengthened. :) I LOVE AND WILL MISS THIS AMAZING WARD!! :D

On Sunday night, President Farnes called me and called me to be one of his assistants. I didn't sleep very much that night feeling anxious and nervous but I know the Lord will mold me and help me to become the consacrated missionary He wants me to be.

Love you all so much!!

Elder Torres