Hey,
So sorry, I've been running around ..very busy today... unfortunately I'm not going to be able to write you today, but I'm hoping later in the week I'll have some time. I've printed off all your emails and will read them tonight :). I love you all. thank you for everything. I've got the best family in the world :)
жив СИЛЬНО
Старейшина Иборн!
Mom--- Love You Mommy :)
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Small Branches Are Special
Well another week is gone and it's been an interesting one that is for sure! Sounds like you all had a wonderful Spring break! By the pictures I saw (got me super duper way trunky….ha if you'd of had Amber there you'd of had all my favorite things ever in one place! Chinese food, Temples, Rock Climbing, My Family, Running, Swimming, and Playing on Rocks! So Yeah! I will be looking forward to next Spring break that is for sure. But don't you worry, I'm not getting distracted from what I'm doing here . This week was a very busy and it was full of traveling missionary work, trying to help our missionaries, and sleeping on trains. Llast week after we finished our ZLC we got all of the rest of our projects finished including designing and developing our trainings for our missionaries and all that stuff. We also got to meet with our investigator family from Armenia. They are wonderful, they read, they pray, the little girls always have questions about things that they've read. It's amazing to watch their faith/testimonies grow in the gospel. I've am so happy that I've had the opportunity to teach people about the Gospel of Christ and to help them to come closer to him. It' really is the best work in the world! Friday night we were suppose to get picked up by President Gushin and then pick up President and Sister Trejo, then get to the Train station to take a night train to a small city called Novokuznesk. Our meeting went a little long and we ended up being a tad bit late picking up the Trejo's but we made it on time! Elder Rupper and I ran quick and held the train for them and we took the overnight trip to Novokuzz (as we call it). I was always so excited about riding on trains across Siberia (the novelty has worn off ;) Not really loving trains. It was hot, a little gross and dark, and the window didn't open. Plus the fact that I woke up every time the train stopped. However, it was only an 8 hour ride so we got in around 5:30 and took a taxi to the Elders apartment where we rested and then got ready and went to our Zone Conference. Zone Conference there went very well actually. Elder Rupper and I focused on teaching how to use our studies more effectively, by using role play and practicing teaching lessons before you actually teach. As well as, about how to find the people the Lord has prepared for us. After we taught them a little bit about it we went out and practiced on the street for a half hour. Our big focus is on asking inspired questions, listening to people, and then teaching according to their needs. It's really interesting how it's been working out we had some experiences asking people about their families and we got some people who really were pretty interested in our message. Then on Sunday in Novokuzz we had 2 baptisms which was way nifty (I realize that I say awesome a lot so I'm going to try and switch things up a bit). One of which was a young single mother whose son will be getting baptized in the end of the month, and the other was a 73 year-old man named Yuri Ivanovich. It may not seem very old for us as Americans to be in our 70's but here in Russia if you are a man and you live to be over 60 it's a miracle (seriously). He's a great man, I had the opportunity to be on a meeting with him and to talk to him before his baptism. He was so excited that because he was getting married that he could be with his wife again. The gospel really is the best thing in the world. Because of our Savior Jesus Christ we have the opportunity to be together forever and to be with our families and those we love for eternity. I'm so glad I can be together with my family. The branch in Novokuzz is very small and as a matter of fact, the branch president is a missionary. We rent out an old salon (we call it the Salon of Salvation) and for baptisms we have to rent out a pool that we use as a font. Right before the baptisms we realized that the water was way too deep. Ha it was about up to your neck if you're short like me. So we tried to figure out how they could do it without just being under water the whole time and Yuri Ivanovich, who was standing on the ladder jumps into the pool, and starts swimming around the pool in his white suit! It was so funny, the Elder trying to baptize him was following him around trying to get him to stop. I was laughing way too hard. In the end he settled down and we had the baptisms. Later that night we left Novokuzz and went back to Novosibirsk. It was a great weekend. I really like those little branches, there's just a special Дух there. We'll thats about it for my week! This week we'll be going on a special assignment up to Tomsk for a few days ( I'm just a little excited to go to my mission "birth city" :) ) and then to Kemerovo to make sure that they can watch General Conference. So hopefully I'll get to watch general conference. I'm looking forward to hearing the words of the prophets! This'll be my second to last General Conference before I am watching them from the comfort of my own couch! So yeah! Have a great week! Keep being the amazing people you are! I love you. жив СИЛЬНО Старейшина Иборн Mom & Dad - Hey :) Thanks for the updates I'm super jealous that you all got to run a race together! When I get home and after I get back into shape we're all going to go on family running days. Way to go getting 3rd Dad and Tanner. I love you guys!
Friday, April 8, 2011
If You Want To Learn - Teach It
This was a great day for emails! I heard from all the people I have been thinking about this week and I'm so glad :) Thank you for all the letters of support and love. I really couldn't do this without you all.
So this last week was interesting ha I'm getting the hang of this whole AP deal. It's pretty interesting and I am learning so much. There's a lot of things to do for President, Sister Trejo feeds us . I have not eaten this well since I left the MTC! But no worries, I've found out that my Comp is as crazy as I am! -5 degrees outside at 6:30 in the morning and he's willing to go and run with me on the snowy, icy, frozen roads of Novo! It's felt so good, we haven't gone very far, maybe…2 miles and that’s it but we still ran. I'm way out of shape (and after Am's e-mail I'm pretty sure she's going be kicking me back into shape when I get home ;) or at least I am hoping so lol.)
This last weekend we had the opportunity to go to Kemerovo with President and Sister Trejo for a branch conference there. It's a small city, about the size of Tomck, the branch there however is the smallest in our mission. We had 3 members at sacrament meeting, one investigator, the branch President (who's a missionary) his companion, and the four of us. It was an amazing experience. Sitting there in a small room with those people translating for President and Sister Trejo (we have these way cool headset we use for translation (I am not going to lie, I love it! I feel like a secret agent using them LOL). I couldn't help but think about how on the other side of the world, the saints were gathered together to listen to the Prophet and Apostles. You all had an opportunity to raise your hand and support them as Prophets, Seers, and Revelators. And in a small branch in the middle of Siberia, I had the amazing opportunity to translate for President Trejo as we did the Sustaining of the General Authority's as well.
It's a big world, yet small all at the same time. The spirit at that branch was amazing a great testimony builder of the fact that the Gospel is true. I know that. The branch in our mission will be watching conference this weekend, but I'll be going to Novokuznetsk for a training and zone conference. So, Elder Rupper and I are planning on locking ourselves in our office when we get back and watching conference all day. We probably watch it at the mission home with President when we get back.
Part of my assignment now is to help train other missionaries skills to become more effective teachers and such. Today, we had all of the Zone Leaders from all over the mission here in Novosibirsk for Zone Leaders Council. It was such a strange feeling. A few months ago I was the newest/youngest zone leader in our mission. Now I'm the one who is teaching. It was/is a humbling experience that’s for sure. We talked a bit about how we can better use role-playing as missionaries to help us better prepare for our lessons. Elder Rupper and I prepared a educational workshop on it, and things turned out pretty well. I guess putting together campfires, being in charge of assemblies in high school, and being around my parents has paid off a little. We're going to be focusing on teaching how to better use our studies and how to find those who are prepared at zone conferences this round about so it'll be fun. Hey, it is said if you want to really learn something you need to teach it! So I'm hoping I'll learn as I give presentations and teach.
I've also made it a goal not to just sit in the office and work on paper work and presentations all day. I am not sure I will be able to work in an office when I get home this last week has been hard to get us to sitting in the office for the time that I've been here. So, Elder Rupper and I are going to keep working as well. We're going to try and to carry as much as we can by being missionaries as well as APs. We don't have an area, or a branch in which we are really assigned to work, but all the same we're finding investigators and meeting with them.
Last week actually we were able to meet with our investigator who is actually from Omck как раз. I've actually met him before and we decided to start meeting with him here since he moved here and we actually set a baptismal date with him for the end of this month! :) He's read the Book of Mormon and is starting to live the principles and it's just amazing what the gospel can do for people. It really will change our lives for the better if we are willing to put aside our own pride, humble ourselves, and come unto our Savior who is waiting with open arms.
I love being where I am :) We also have a family we found. They are Armanian and are great! We have taught them about the plan of salvation earlier this week and they are great and I'm excited to learn and grow with them.
So yeah, Pretty much my week's been good, we're busy and working hard and I'm still loving every minute of it! :) Thanks for all you guys do for me, you really do strengthen my testimony. I love you guys! I'll catch ya next week!
жив сильно
Ст Иборн!!
Mom & Dad - Sounds like you guys are having a great spring break! I wish the weather was 80 degress here. I'm getting tired of the snow. If global warming were true, I wish it'd happen in Siberia! I'll be expecting pictures and a full report of spring break next week. I love you guys. Listen to some good music for me!
Jacob Kesler - Hey big guy :) Thanks for your email. Ha you have no idea how good it was to hear from you. Honestly that was probably the best email I've gotten my entire mission. You're an awesome man Jake, and I have no doubt that you're going to be a wonderful instrument in the hands of the Lord. :) It's the hard things in life that make us stronger and help us to learn. I love you brother! I hope you keep me updated with how things are going and what you're up too. It's been 15 months way to long.
So this last week was interesting ha I'm getting the hang of this whole AP deal. It's pretty interesting and I am learning so much. There's a lot of things to do for President, Sister Trejo feeds us . I have not eaten this well since I left the MTC! But no worries, I've found out that my Comp is as crazy as I am! -5 degrees outside at 6:30 in the morning and he's willing to go and run with me on the snowy, icy, frozen roads of Novo! It's felt so good, we haven't gone very far, maybe…2 miles and that’s it but we still ran. I'm way out of shape (and after Am's e-mail I'm pretty sure she's going be kicking me back into shape when I get home ;) or at least I am hoping so lol.)
This last weekend we had the opportunity to go to Kemerovo with President and Sister Trejo for a branch conference there. It's a small city, about the size of Tomck, the branch there however is the smallest in our mission. We had 3 members at sacrament meeting, one investigator, the branch President (who's a missionary) his companion, and the four of us. It was an amazing experience. Sitting there in a small room with those people translating for President and Sister Trejo (we have these way cool headset we use for translation (I am not going to lie, I love it! I feel like a secret agent using them LOL). I couldn't help but think about how on the other side of the world, the saints were gathered together to listen to the Prophet and Apostles. You all had an opportunity to raise your hand and support them as Prophets, Seers, and Revelators. And in a small branch in the middle of Siberia, I had the amazing opportunity to translate for President Trejo as we did the Sustaining of the General Authority's as well.
It's a big world, yet small all at the same time. The spirit at that branch was amazing a great testimony builder of the fact that the Gospel is true. I know that. The branch in our mission will be watching conference this weekend, but I'll be going to Novokuznetsk for a training and zone conference. So, Elder Rupper and I are planning on locking ourselves in our office when we get back and watching conference all day. We probably watch it at the mission home with President when we get back.
Part of my assignment now is to help train other missionaries skills to become more effective teachers and such. Today, we had all of the Zone Leaders from all over the mission here in Novosibirsk for Zone Leaders Council. It was such a strange feeling. A few months ago I was the newest/youngest zone leader in our mission. Now I'm the one who is teaching. It was/is a humbling experience that’s for sure. We talked a bit about how we can better use role-playing as missionaries to help us better prepare for our lessons. Elder Rupper and I prepared a educational workshop on it, and things turned out pretty well. I guess putting together campfires, being in charge of assemblies in high school, and being around my parents has paid off a little. We're going to be focusing on teaching how to better use our studies and how to find those who are prepared at zone conferences this round about so it'll be fun. Hey, it is said if you want to really learn something you need to teach it! So I'm hoping I'll learn as I give presentations and teach.
I've also made it a goal not to just sit in the office and work on paper work and presentations all day. I am not sure I will be able to work in an office when I get home this last week has been hard to get us to sitting in the office for the time that I've been here. So, Elder Rupper and I are going to keep working as well. We're going to try and to carry as much as we can by being missionaries as well as APs. We don't have an area, or a branch in which we are really assigned to work, but all the same we're finding investigators and meeting with them.
Last week actually we were able to meet with our investigator who is actually from Omck как раз. I've actually met him before and we decided to start meeting with him here since he moved here and we actually set a baptismal date with him for the end of this month! :) He's read the Book of Mormon and is starting to live the principles and it's just amazing what the gospel can do for people. It really will change our lives for the better if we are willing to put aside our own pride, humble ourselves, and come unto our Savior who is waiting with open arms.
I love being where I am :) We also have a family we found. They are Armanian and are great! We have taught them about the plan of salvation earlier this week and they are great and I'm excited to learn and grow with them.
So yeah, Pretty much my week's been good, we're busy and working hard and I'm still loving every minute of it! :) Thanks for all you guys do for me, you really do strengthen my testimony. I love you guys! I'll catch ya next week!
жив сильно
Ст Иборн!!
Mom & Dad - Sounds like you guys are having a great spring break! I wish the weather was 80 degress here. I'm getting tired of the snow. If global warming were true, I wish it'd happen in Siberia! I'll be expecting pictures and a full report of spring break next week. I love you guys. Listen to some good music for me!
Jacob Kesler - Hey big guy :) Thanks for your email. Ha you have no idea how good it was to hear from you. Honestly that was probably the best email I've gotten my entire mission. You're an awesome man Jake, and I have no doubt that you're going to be a wonderful instrument in the hands of the Lord. :) It's the hard things in life that make us stronger and help us to learn. I love you brother! I hope you keep me updated with how things are going and what you're up too. It's been 15 months way to long.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Hard Things Make You Stronger
They are going to be awesome Priesthood holders here in the near future. It was amazing; they got baptized before church so that they could be confirmed the same day. I had the opportunity to confirm Sister Valentina a member of the church and to give her the gift of the Holy Ghost. What an experience, the two of them had a chance to bear their testimonies after their confirmations and it was amazing to hear their bright burning testimonies. Henry talked about how when he goes home to Uganda he wants to help his family, and all of his friends come to the church. We (Elder Maughan) sent a email to the mission president down in Uganda and are working on having missionaries go and start working with his family. I am so blessed to have been a part to be a part of this great work:) Elder Dearden's (Brock) Mom once said, "A missionary is one who leaves his family for two years to help others be with theirs forever". It really is such a wonderful thing to help people come unto Christ!
So yeah! I was sad to be leaving Omsk. 9 months in the same city, well you learn to love the people, but this will be a good change and a new chance to learn and to grow. Hard things make you stronger.
This next weekend I'll be going with President and Sister Trejo to Kemerovo for a branch conference, and the next weekend to Novokuznetsk for a Zone Conference. I've also got to prepare and get ready for Zone Leaders Council, and in the end of the month I'll be flying to Ulan-Ude (on the other side of Baikal) so this new calling will have some opportunity to meet people in many cities. Oh, and seeing as how I'm stationed in Novosibirsk, if you have any desire to send me letters, goody packages etc. they'll get to me a lot quicker! (hint) So yeah, that's basically my week in a nutshell. I'm trying to find my way around Novo, trying to learn my duties and do all I can. This morning we had 3 new missionaries come in. and we got to go and meet them at the airport and bring them back to the mission home for breakfast with the Trejo's. It brought back good memories of Elder Drasso, Capps, Septon, and I flying into Novo a year ago. We were dead tired, had no idea where we were, what people were saying and how the heck we were going to help people to learn about the gospel. But we learned… and they will too :) we get to go have orientation with them today around 4 so yeah. :)
Well family, I love ya. thanks for the awesome emails! I love hearing from you all please keep the letters coming! You've only got like 30 some odd weeks of letters so let’s keep em commin!
жив сильно Ст. Иборн!
Mom & Dad - Ha well... I am sorry you can't all go to Havasupai... but maybe next year we could try and go again :) I know I'd love to go... Sounds like you guys are going to have a way fun Spring break :) be safe and as dad always said to me,” don’t jump off anything".
Tanner - Dude, ok. you need to get me a pair of those shoes for when I get home. Alright? Those are way to cool! That's pretty sweet that you're girly friend will be going with you, I remember getting to have Amber come with us up to Jackson Hole for Lotoja. It's was a lot of fun --treat her good.
Megan - who said you could grow up and become a teenager already? eмоё! ёлки палки! если мне нада убить кого то я смогу! с днём рождения сестра моя!
Maddie- Love ya sis :) thanks for the email, take my puppy on a walk alright?
Monday, March 28, 2011
Sunday, March 27, 2011
The Night of Transfers
Elder Eborn, with Henry and Agaba the night of transfers. Celebration of Henry and Valentina's baptism. (Photo from Sister Maughan, Omsk Russia)
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
I'm Ready for Spring!
Dearest Family of mine!
Yet another week has past and what would you know! We had a baptism this weekend!! Violetta was able to be baptized on saturday and this next week she'll be recieving the gift of the holy ghost! We're Very Excited! (I dont know if I've told you this but there is no word for excited in Russian; interesting eh?)
We are looking forward to this upcoming weekend as well. We've got 3 baptisms set up for Sunday morning! Which is unreal!! President Trejo even told me that he has never seen that happen in the entire time he's been a mission president. As much as I'd like to take the credit, I really haven't done anything. I've taught the gospel, and the Lord has given them the witness that they've asked for. It's going to be a historic weekend for the city of Omck! But, it's not over until they're all in the font... so please keep them in your prayers. miracles are just around the corner but we've gotta finish doing our part for them to happen.
This week has also been quite an adventure, I'm actually conducting splits with one of the other Elders right now from the north area in Omck. We've been on splits for 2 days. It's just the only way it could work out for us. but we've had fun, and been learning a lot. As a Zone Leader I'm supposed to help teach the missionaries on exchanges how to be more effective and such. And we had about a half hour of down time and I realized that I was craving chocolate chip cookies way way bad. so we made them, it was actually a good thing though because on our way to our next meeting we met a man who told us that he was searching for another church because his church wasn't answering the questions that he had. We asked him what they were (the questions that is) and he asked about prophets and apostles. A Little alarm went off in my head, "Hey, Elder Eborn, thats part of the message you share..." and I jumped all over that! he's way excited to come to Church and to learn more about it. I guess sometimes you've just gotta take some time and make some cookies! We might not have met him if we hadn't stopped to make the cookies so it was a win/win.
It's been warming up quite a bit, but not enough, there is still snow everywhere and I'm not even kidding when I say my legs want to run. I've been running up and down the 12 story flight of stairs in our apartment builing almost every morning but it's not cutting it. I can't wait until summer and I'll be able to run a little bit.
I also did get your package :) I've had to put a limit on how many Reeses I eat each day. I even have a little counter on the fridge to keep track so I don't eat them all at once. (funny)
I had to explain to Elder Trunov what a Leprechaun was because of the hat and socks you sent. He still doesn't get it. Silly Ukrainian. We've also have transfer calls coming up this Friday and if this pattern continues I'll probably be in Omck another 6 weeks :) which honestly will be fine, this place is pretty much like home now, except without my family, and more crazy people lol I think its something in the water (jk). Any ways we'll see what happens maybe I'll be taking the longest transfer in the world! I'll let you know next week.
So yeah, that's pretty much my week :) I've just been workng hard and trying to smile while I'm at it. It's been a little bit rougher this week, I've been a little bit down but it's all good, I just need to get my endorphins going and we'll be just fine!
I love you all. Thank you for your letters of support and the love you give me.The Church is True, Jesus is the Christ, Joseph Smith is the Prophet of the Restoration, The Book of Mormon is True, and God loves us!
жив сильно!
Ст. Иборн
Mom & Dad - Well, diet wise its basically the same as back home, just with a lot less selection and a whole lot worse quality. I've been eating a lot of rice and veggies lately due to the fact that we don't have time to eat real food. but the selection of meats isn't very good so you basically stay with chicken that you have to skin and pull the breast bone out of. so yeah, it'll be nice to come back home and be able to eat like normal again. but I guess if you wanted to be a vegetarian in russia you could, but you won't be able to get away with it with the members, especially in winter.
Love you guys and if you do wanna send another package here soon send some food coloring!
Garrett, Gavin, & Libby - You guys Rock! Thank you for the awesome pictures :) lol I didn't even know we had Pirates in Russia but I'm glad I know now ;) It's good to know you guys are having fun in Nevada I'll have to come visit when I get home
Love you guys!
Yet another week has past and what would you know! We had a baptism this weekend!! Violetta was able to be baptized on saturday and this next week she'll be recieving the gift of the holy ghost! We're Very Excited! (I dont know if I've told you this but there is no word for excited in Russian; interesting eh?)
We are looking forward to this upcoming weekend as well. We've got 3 baptisms set up for Sunday morning! Which is unreal!! President Trejo even told me that he has never seen that happen in the entire time he's been a mission president. As much as I'd like to take the credit, I really haven't done anything. I've taught the gospel, and the Lord has given them the witness that they've asked for. It's going to be a historic weekend for the city of Omck! But, it's not over until they're all in the font... so please keep them in your prayers. miracles are just around the corner but we've gotta finish doing our part for them to happen.
This week has also been quite an adventure, I'm actually conducting splits with one of the other Elders right now from the north area in Omck. We've been on splits for 2 days. It's just the only way it could work out for us. but we've had fun, and been learning a lot. As a Zone Leader I'm supposed to help teach the missionaries on exchanges how to be more effective and such. And we had about a half hour of down time and I realized that I was craving chocolate chip cookies way way bad. so we made them, it was actually a good thing though because on our way to our next meeting we met a man who told us that he was searching for another church because his church wasn't answering the questions that he had. We asked him what they were (the questions that is) and he asked about prophets and apostles. A Little alarm went off in my head, "Hey, Elder Eborn, thats part of the message you share..." and I jumped all over that! he's way excited to come to Church and to learn more about it. I guess sometimes you've just gotta take some time and make some cookies! We might not have met him if we hadn't stopped to make the cookies so it was a win/win.
It's been warming up quite a bit, but not enough, there is still snow everywhere and I'm not even kidding when I say my legs want to run. I've been running up and down the 12 story flight of stairs in our apartment builing almost every morning but it's not cutting it. I can't wait until summer and I'll be able to run a little bit.
I also did get your package :) I've had to put a limit on how many Reeses I eat each day. I even have a little counter on the fridge to keep track so I don't eat them all at once. (funny)
I had to explain to Elder Trunov what a Leprechaun was because of the hat and socks you sent. He still doesn't get it. Silly Ukrainian. We've also have transfer calls coming up this Friday and if this pattern continues I'll probably be in Omck another 6 weeks :) which honestly will be fine, this place is pretty much like home now, except without my family, and more crazy people lol I think its something in the water (jk). Any ways we'll see what happens maybe I'll be taking the longest transfer in the world! I'll let you know next week.
So yeah, that's pretty much my week :) I've just been workng hard and trying to smile while I'm at it. It's been a little bit rougher this week, I've been a little bit down but it's all good, I just need to get my endorphins going and we'll be just fine!
I love you all. Thank you for your letters of support and the love you give me.The Church is True, Jesus is the Christ, Joseph Smith is the Prophet of the Restoration, The Book of Mormon is True, and God loves us!
жив сильно!
Ст. Иборн
Mom & Dad - Well, diet wise its basically the same as back home, just with a lot less selection and a whole lot worse quality. I've been eating a lot of rice and veggies lately due to the fact that we don't have time to eat real food. but the selection of meats isn't very good so you basically stay with chicken that you have to skin and pull the breast bone out of. so yeah, it'll be nice to come back home and be able to eat like normal again. but I guess if you wanted to be a vegetarian in russia you could, but you won't be able to get away with it with the members, especially in winter.
Love you guys and if you do wanna send another package here soon send some food coloring!
Garrett, Gavin, & Libby - You guys Rock! Thank you for the awesome pictures :) lol I didn't even know we had Pirates in Russia but I'm glad I know now ;) It's good to know you guys are having fun in Nevada I'll have to come visit when I get home
Love you guys!
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Happy St. Patricks Day From Russia
Brought a tear to my eye, and warmed my heart. Thank you Sister Maughan for letting me know our missionary recieved his new shirts (along with the other little supplies we sent). I was worrying because I know he was running low on his white shirt situation. Here is the email...
"Brother and Sister Eborn, I thought you might like this picture of your Elder. He does a wonderful job as a missionary and zone leader! You can be very proud of the job he is doing. It is a pleasure to serve with him.
Sincerely,
Sister Maughan"
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
All is Well In Siberia
It's been another great week here in Siberia and all is well. I'm a little bit sick, but nothing to be worried about just a little cold. I took a nap yesterday and now everything is much better.
So, I should probably let you know that everything is going as planned for our scheduled baptisms this month. Violetta will be baptized this Saturday in between sessions of District Conference. We have recieved permission for her to get baptized. Also, our Uganda friends are doing awesome we're working with them and helping them get ready for the 27th of March. It will be an eventful day, we will potentially have three baptisms that day. We have one new investigator who we set a baptismal date with last week. She's a great lady who really has been searching for the truth and we were able to find her. It's amazing how that works isn't?
Thanks for the prayers. She was very excited about it all. She's already read almost all 2nd Nephi in the Book of Mormon and says she loves every bit of it! She says it has answered almost every question she wanted to ask us. It will be fun to see her learn and grow and to receive the blessings that come with that. We taught her yesterday about the Plan of Salvation and she was so excited and had one of those “Moments of Clarity” (as Dad calls them). I am blessed that I've had the opportunity to be a small part of her conversion.
We've been working with other investigators as well trying to help them to progress and we've been having some success. Our friends from Africa are so excited about their baptism. They were a little embarrassed though they have been coming to church in just casual clothes because that is all they brought with them and they felt bad about it, and wanted to wait until they could get church clothes to get baptized. I ended up giving them each a white shirt and tie, and told them that they're going to make some very good Preisthood holders.
Spring is coming here in Omck (we are in Siberia), and the weather is very unpredictable! For instance, 2 days ago it was a warm -5 outside, and then yesterday we had a huge snow storm.
I just realized that a year ago yesterday I left the MTC, man how time flies. I haven't been in America for over a year.
I've even been wearing just my polto around and it feels way good outside! Soon enough it will be summer and time really has been flying. Today, Elder Trunov left on his visa trip and I am on splits with the Left Bank Elders, we did half of our email before his train left and then I came back to finish my letter home with the other Elders who didn't have a chance to do email yet.
I was reading in the scriptures the other day about Nephi (First Nephi that is - ah, White Dog :) I was reading in Chapter 4, and it talks about trusting in the arm of the flesh. Here is what it says; it really hit me kind of hard. Nephi (who is such a Scriptural Stud) says that he is fed up with sin, and that he makes little mistakes as well. But He talks about knowing in whom he trusts. He says at the end "O Lord, I have a trusted in thee, and I will trust in thee forever. I will not put my trust in the arm of flesh; for I know that cursed is he that put his trust in the arm of flesh. Yea, cursed is he that puts his trust in man or maketh flesh his arm. Yea, I know that God will give liberally to him that asketh. Yea, my God will give me, if I ask not amiss; therefore I will lift up my voice unto thee; yea, I will cry unto thee, my God, the rock of my righteousness. Behold, my voice shall forever ascend up unto thee, my rock and mine everlasting God. Amen."
And that is one thing that I've been learning so much on my mission. President Trejo often talks to me about becoming a "spiritual being on a mortal experience" rather than the other way around. If you think about the Plan of Salvation. We REALLY are without beginning and without end. And we are here for only a short time on the grand scale of things, and of course there are things we need to do here in this life. We're here to learn, to grow, and to have joy. There's more to life, and we need to put off the natural man, and see with our spiritual eyes. I am not saying that I am going to be a missionary for the rest of my life or anything lol. When it comes time to come home I'll be ready. I want to try to be more like Nephi, and trust not in the arm of flesh, but trust in the rock of my salvation. Just like a climber trusts in his anchors.
Well everyone I love you. Thanks for all of your support. I know you are all very busy, but I really am very appreciative of you taking time to read what I write and to write me, it always makes my week a better. P-day is almost better than Christmas!
LiveStrong
Elder Eborn
Mom - LOL I read all that you sent me and I realized I am going to be so messed up when I get home I had no idea what half of those words meant! Elder Trunov had to help explain it to me in Russian; I wonder if Dad had a hard time re-adjusting to English when he got back?
Dad - So we were at the mall today, and we went by the Solomon store and they had a 50% sale and I bought a new jacket and almost some new shoes. I figure though I'll just run through the ones I've got here (they're pretty trashed) and get some Nikefrees when I get home. I want to run so bad.
So, I should probably let you know that everything is going as planned for our scheduled baptisms this month. Violetta will be baptized this Saturday in between sessions of District Conference. We have recieved permission for her to get baptized. Also, our Uganda friends are doing awesome we're working with them and helping them get ready for the 27th of March. It will be an eventful day, we will potentially have three baptisms that day. We have one new investigator who we set a baptismal date with last week. She's a great lady who really has been searching for the truth and we were able to find her. It's amazing how that works isn't?
Thanks for the prayers. She was very excited about it all. She's already read almost all 2nd Nephi in the Book of Mormon and says she loves every bit of it! She says it has answered almost every question she wanted to ask us. It will be fun to see her learn and grow and to receive the blessings that come with that. We taught her yesterday about the Plan of Salvation and she was so excited and had one of those “Moments of Clarity” (as Dad calls them). I am blessed that I've had the opportunity to be a small part of her conversion.
We've been working with other investigators as well trying to help them to progress and we've been having some success. Our friends from Africa are so excited about their baptism. They were a little embarrassed though they have been coming to church in just casual clothes because that is all they brought with them and they felt bad about it, and wanted to wait until they could get church clothes to get baptized. I ended up giving them each a white shirt and tie, and told them that they're going to make some very good Preisthood holders.
Spring is coming here in Omck (we are in Siberia), and the weather is very unpredictable! For instance, 2 days ago it was a warm -5 outside, and then yesterday we had a huge snow storm.
I just realized that a year ago yesterday I left the MTC, man how time flies. I haven't been in America for over a year.
I've even been wearing just my polto around and it feels way good outside! Soon enough it will be summer and time really has been flying. Today, Elder Trunov left on his visa trip and I am on splits with the Left Bank Elders, we did half of our email before his train left and then I came back to finish my letter home with the other Elders who didn't have a chance to do email yet.
I was reading in the scriptures the other day about Nephi (First Nephi that is - ah, White Dog :) I was reading in Chapter 4, and it talks about trusting in the arm of the flesh. Here is what it says; it really hit me kind of hard. Nephi (who is such a Scriptural Stud) says that he is fed up with sin, and that he makes little mistakes as well. But He talks about knowing in whom he trusts. He says at the end "O Lord, I have a trusted in thee, and I will trust in thee forever. I will not put my trust in the arm of flesh; for I know that cursed is he that put his trust in the arm of flesh. Yea, cursed is he that puts his trust in man or maketh flesh his arm. Yea, I know that God will give liberally to him that asketh. Yea, my God will give me, if I ask not amiss; therefore I will lift up my voice unto thee; yea, I will cry unto thee, my God, the rock of my righteousness. Behold, my voice shall forever ascend up unto thee, my rock and mine everlasting God. Amen."
And that is one thing that I've been learning so much on my mission. President Trejo often talks to me about becoming a "spiritual being on a mortal experience" rather than the other way around. If you think about the Plan of Salvation. We REALLY are without beginning and without end. And we are here for only a short time on the grand scale of things, and of course there are things we need to do here in this life. We're here to learn, to grow, and to have joy. There's more to life, and we need to put off the natural man, and see with our spiritual eyes. I am not saying that I am going to be a missionary for the rest of my life or anything lol. When it comes time to come home I'll be ready. I want to try to be more like Nephi, and trust not in the arm of flesh, but trust in the rock of my salvation. Just like a climber trusts in his anchors.
Well everyone I love you. Thanks for all of your support. I know you are all very busy, but I really am very appreciative of you taking time to read what I write and to write me, it always makes my week a better. P-day is almost better than Christmas!
LiveStrong
Elder Eborn
Mom - LOL I read all that you sent me and I realized I am going to be so messed up when I get home I had no idea what half of those words meant! Elder Trunov had to help explain it to me in Russian; I wonder if Dad had a hard time re-adjusting to English when he got back?
Dad - So we were at the mall today, and we went by the Solomon store and they had a 50% sale and I bought a new jacket and almost some new shoes. I figure though I'll just run through the ones I've got here (they're pretty trashed) and get some Nikefrees when I get home. I want to run so bad.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
The Proof
First of all, I want say that “I love my Mommy!!” She's the best and I am very grateful for the fact that she is my mother. I have learned so much from her, and I wouldn't be the person I am today without her love and example. Happy Birthday.
This week has been way fast and I am kind of freaking out that it is already March where is my mission going? Elder Trunov goes home next transfer, and I have less time on my mission than I've been on my mission. Well slightly. Mind boggling I am definitely not ready for my mission to be over, and it's a good thing that I've got another 9 months. That's still too short. I am just going to have to work harder.
So we got back from Novo last week and decided to get haircuts. OK, so the thing is here in Russia no matter what you say, the hair stylist will always just do whatever she wants and well I am pretty much bald. It's way convenient though ha and with the weather warming up it's not even that cold so I guess it just means that I don’t have to get a haircut for a long time. It was way funny. Every 2 transfers we get to do a "culture night" where we get to go and do something cultural and last Thursday we went and saw a violin concert. There was this way famous artist guy there who I'd never heard of (but he had a top hat and me and my baldness got a picture in his hat.) It was way fun, but I don't think I am meant for the whole classical scene, I almost fell asleep three times and yeah, it was way pretty and those people are very talented… but I'd of rather seen Van Halen. (I got to eat some of Elder Bonuses’ Reese's Peanut butter Cups which was kind of him, and a highlight!).
We have 3 baptisms scheduled for this month. Of course, things are never easy. My Uganda friends are now confined to their hotel because one of their group members got deported. And we just found out that the sweet little girl’s father doesn't want her to get baptized. But, it's amazing what you can learn from an 8 year old :). Her grandmother was telling us the situation and she piped up, “I have the answer! Heavenly Father will help us, he can help my dad to give me permission.” We all knelt and prayed together for that. Elder Trunov and I will be fasting for them all. Like it says in Ether 12.6 “the proof will not come until after the trial of your faith”. This is definitely a trial. I am sure that Our Heavenly Father will do what he can, after we've done everything we can. You've got to have faith, please keep them in your prayers.
The rest of the week was pretty good. We had district meeting which we are in charge of teaching the missionaries how to be better missionaries which is silly because they are all WAY better than I am. It was way good. We focus so much on goals, on working hard and all of that kind of stuff. So Elder Trunov and I thought we needed to focus on the love. That is the reason for everything we are doing here in Russia. We have a Heavenly Father who loves us, he created a plan for us to become like him because he loves us. He created a place for us to learn and to grow because he loves us. He knew that we would make mistakes and therefore sent our older brother Jesus Christ to help us return to him because he loves us. And I love my Heavenly Father for everything he has done for me. We as missionaries talked about all the people we are serving; Members, Investigators, missionaries etc. and about why we loved them. The things you'd do for the ones you love really helps you realize what this whole thing is all about. No wonder the two greatest commandments are "Love the Lord thy God" and "Love thy fellow man" I love these people here and I Love you all :) thank you for being the best examples you are to me :) and for loving me like you do, I couldn't do it without you all :)
I need to go, P-day is really just a day to get food for the rest of the week and write home day for us.
LiveStrong,
Elder Eborn
Mommy - Sounds like you're having fun with your iPhone! It probably sounds missionary dorky but I am excited to get home and get one so I can put my scriptures on it. That's crazy about the new Elder's that are coming my way, there are a lot of missionaries getting ready to go home so I can see that there will be a lot new coming. Small world that a 2nd cousin of mine will be here for the last six months of my mission ha. They’re in for the ride of their lives! I just wanted to let you know that I love you and that I am so grateful for all you do for me and our family.
Dad- I checked out your running times and it's looking like you're getting faster. Not too shabby for an old guy! You'll be faster than I am when I get back. Sounds like you've got some races lined up this year that will be way fun. I am super jealous you’re going to Havasupai for spring break! What?! You couldn't wait until next year when I get back? Man.. Oh well. Love you pops
Tanner- Ha man you're getting so old. Graduating from high school and doing all sorts of fun stuff. Thanks for writing...It'll be fun to come home and be able to play with you again Broski. Do those vibram shoes come with nike+? That would be so sick. I wear mine around the house and to sports night all the time lol. I’m starting to rip them though... I’ll have to check them out when I get home. Love ya bro!
Megan- Student Body Historian?! I thought you were in like 7th grade or something? What?! When did my sister grow up?! That will be awesome though. I loved doing student government it was way fun especially in highschool. Love ya sis :) Keep being awesome I’m way glad you wrote :)
Maddie - Ha Maddie, you know I love hearing from you right? It always makes me smile way big :) love ya baby sis!
This week has been way fast and I am kind of freaking out that it is already March where is my mission going? Elder Trunov goes home next transfer, and I have less time on my mission than I've been on my mission. Well slightly. Mind boggling I am definitely not ready for my mission to be over, and it's a good thing that I've got another 9 months. That's still too short. I am just going to have to work harder.
So we got back from Novo last week and decided to get haircuts. OK, so the thing is here in Russia no matter what you say, the hair stylist will always just do whatever she wants and well I am pretty much bald. It's way convenient though ha and with the weather warming up it's not even that cold so I guess it just means that I don’t have to get a haircut for a long time. It was way funny. Every 2 transfers we get to do a "culture night" where we get to go and do something cultural and last Thursday we went and saw a violin concert. There was this way famous artist guy there who I'd never heard of (but he had a top hat and me and my baldness got a picture in his hat.) It was way fun, but I don't think I am meant for the whole classical scene, I almost fell asleep three times and yeah, it was way pretty and those people are very talented… but I'd of rather seen Van Halen. (I got to eat some of Elder Bonuses’ Reese's Peanut butter Cups which was kind of him, and a highlight!).
We have 3 baptisms scheduled for this month. Of course, things are never easy. My Uganda friends are now confined to their hotel because one of their group members got deported. And we just found out that the sweet little girl’s father doesn't want her to get baptized. But, it's amazing what you can learn from an 8 year old :). Her grandmother was telling us the situation and she piped up, “I have the answer! Heavenly Father will help us, he can help my dad to give me permission.” We all knelt and prayed together for that. Elder Trunov and I will be fasting for them all. Like it says in Ether 12.6 “the proof will not come until after the trial of your faith”. This is definitely a trial. I am sure that Our Heavenly Father will do what he can, after we've done everything we can. You've got to have faith, please keep them in your prayers.
The rest of the week was pretty good. We had district meeting which we are in charge of teaching the missionaries how to be better missionaries which is silly because they are all WAY better than I am. It was way good. We focus so much on goals, on working hard and all of that kind of stuff. So Elder Trunov and I thought we needed to focus on the love. That is the reason for everything we are doing here in Russia. We have a Heavenly Father who loves us, he created a plan for us to become like him because he loves us. He created a place for us to learn and to grow because he loves us. He knew that we would make mistakes and therefore sent our older brother Jesus Christ to help us return to him because he loves us. And I love my Heavenly Father for everything he has done for me. We as missionaries talked about all the people we are serving; Members, Investigators, missionaries etc. and about why we loved them. The things you'd do for the ones you love really helps you realize what this whole thing is all about. No wonder the two greatest commandments are "Love the Lord thy God" and "Love thy fellow man" I love these people here and I Love you all :) thank you for being the best examples you are to me :) and for loving me like you do, I couldn't do it without you all :)
I need to go, P-day is really just a day to get food for the rest of the week and write home day for us.
LiveStrong,
Elder Eborn
Mommy - Sounds like you're having fun with your iPhone! It probably sounds missionary dorky but I am excited to get home and get one so I can put my scriptures on it. That's crazy about the new Elder's that are coming my way, there are a lot of missionaries getting ready to go home so I can see that there will be a lot new coming. Small world that a 2nd cousin of mine will be here for the last six months of my mission ha. They’re in for the ride of their lives! I just wanted to let you know that I love you and that I am so grateful for all you do for me and our family.
Dad- I checked out your running times and it's looking like you're getting faster. Not too shabby for an old guy! You'll be faster than I am when I get back. Sounds like you've got some races lined up this year that will be way fun. I am super jealous you’re going to Havasupai for spring break! What?! You couldn't wait until next year when I get back? Man.. Oh well. Love you pops
Tanner- Ha man you're getting so old. Graduating from high school and doing all sorts of fun stuff. Thanks for writing...It'll be fun to come home and be able to play with you again Broski. Do those vibram shoes come with nike+? That would be so sick. I wear mine around the house and to sports night all the time lol. I’m starting to rip them though... I’ll have to check them out when I get home. Love ya bro!
Megan- Student Body Historian?! I thought you were in like 7th grade or something? What?! When did my sister grow up?! That will be awesome though. I loved doing student government it was way fun especially in highschool. Love ya sis :) Keep being awesome I’m way glad you wrote :)
Maddie - Ha Maddie, you know I love hearing from you right? It always makes me smile way big :) love ya baby sis!
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