WEEK 92 - Transfers Are Next Week and I Will Most Likely Get Transfered

Mom,

I too cannot believe it is June. Time has really passed rapidly. It is really hard to imagine that I will be home this September and continue life without a name tag (that is a weird idea). Although the transition seems very difficult, many of my former companions, who are now home, have given me great advice. Hope for a happy return home, now seems a lot easier and achievable.

We had a blast for Memorial Day. We joined a family for a large family gathering for lunch. Besides lunch, we also played some baseball. And in case you're wondering: I did hit a couple of home-runs;)! Many were shocked that baseball was played in Canada. In fact, I constantly have to inform Americans (not all, but a few) that Canada is VERY similar to America and that certain seasons permit us to play summer sports.... ha ha.

In addition to 'hanging out' we also taught some lessons. We also confirmed two baptismal interviews and made some preparations for Saturday. This Saturday we will baptize 4 of our investigators! Although that sounds amazing, baptisms require a lot of preparation. That being said, please pray for us!


I have been studying the Mosiah chapters lately. I have noticed the differences between the types of Christ and the types of the Devil. Compare the way King Benjamin led his people to the way King Noah did. One of my greatest discoveries is found in these two verses: Mosiah 2:1,5 and Mosiah 19:11. While King benjamin encouraged his people to gather as families near the temple and learn, King Noah commanded all the fathers to leave their wives and children behind to protect their lives. Similarly, the atonement of Jesus Christ was motivated by love to save his eternal family members, while the adversary is motivated by selfishness and focuses on himself. Depending on who we serve, determines our motivations and ultimately our eternal rewards (Matthew 6:24) .

Well, that's all I got. Transfers are next week and I will most likely get transfered -- Chances are excellent.


I love you tons,

Elder Jonathan Kaufman

KAMERON IS CALLED TO SERVE IN THE CANADA VANCOUVER MISSION

Kameron read his letter via skype in front of family and friends yesterday (Tuesday May 25th 2010)! Another YM accepting to serve the Lord. Congratulations to you Kameron and to your family!

Thanks Fatima for sharing this video!

Bhk

WEEK 91 - The Success from Our Work Seems to Be Increasing

Mom,

Like Montreal, the weather here in Utah is beautiful. The sun in brightly shining, the grass is greener, and smiling faces are glowing. Weather greatly affects peoples attitudes, and at time, soften hearts. I am finally appreciating the beauty of Roy. Isn't that a shocker?!

The success from our work seems to be increasing. Our investigators are willing to keep commitments and happily look forward to their baptism. June 5 and 6 will be a weekend to remember: we are planning on baptizing 7 of our investigators that weekend.

Although Elder Kreiberg and I have been together for 4 1/2 months, not to mention in the same area, we are tremendously fortunate to have so much success. Like Alma and Amulek, as we testify and teach in unity, many will be astonished (Alma 10:12) and find faith in Christ, even those who have previously turned down our message.

I had a very spiritual experience at church 2 days ago. Like never before, I felt the Holy Ghost warn, prompt, and guide my thoughts. It was very inspiring. Hope blossomed in my heart and my faith in Christ felt like it was inflated. I lost every desire and tendency to put down, tease, and make fun of people. Instead, understanding and patience was given to me. The Holy Ghost is the messenger and deliverer of truth, guidance, warning, hope, faith, knowledge and love. The Holy Ghost can tell us all things what we should do (2 Nephi 32:5) All these great things come from God and are possible because of the atonement.

On a lighter note, I am continuing to lose weight and looking healthier. In fact, many missionaries mention that I am losing weight. That is a good indication that it is true. haha

Thank you for all you do. I love you a lot.

Elder jonathan kaufman

P.S: Tell Elder Glowa to have a Happy Birthday!

Brooke sent me a package! haha it was amazing. She is amazing. Tell her I am really thankful. please:)
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Dad,

I am glad you guys had an enjoyble time for mom's birthday.

Isn't amazing how many youth are planning to serve missions? The Montreal Stake is on fire -- keep the fire burning.

Is patrick in severe pain? I hope not. I put his name in the temple today. I know God will protect and heal him.

Well keep up with the updates. I always enjoy them. I love you and really can't wait to see you again. I wonder how much you have changed. It will be a great reunion.

The Gospel is true and blesses families. I hope to have the highest blessing with all of you.

Love you tons,

Elder Jonathan Kaufman

WEEK 90 - Tell Ben I Love Him

Mommy,

Happy 25th birthday! I hope Rebecca and dad have spoiled you with presents and have expressed their gratitude and love for you -- You deserve it! I love you and so badly wish I was there celebrating your special day with you guys.

Last week we had zone conference and to our surprise we had many "special guests" visit and instruct us: Sister Lifferth (former 1st Counselor in the General Primary Presidency) bore sweet testimony and Alex Boye motivated us with inspiring stories and faith-giving words. I am sure every missionary left conference with a stronger testimony of the restored gospel, and a hope to successfully confront evil that we constantly oppose. My testimony concerning faith has definitely increased.

I have learned that faith is not the power to wish your desires into existence, but to understand God's will and be at peace with it (Moroni 7:33);
It is to believe that God can make more out of your life than you could (Matthew 16:25);
It is to do what God requires even when we desire something else(Deut 5:27).
Faith truly is trusting and depending on Christ.
What's more, exercising faith makes available to us the fruits and blessings of the restored gospel: relief from sin, pain, and afflictions.
It allows us to be transformed, cleansed, and qualified to return home (Mosiah 3:9,17; 4:3,6,7). Faith welcomes God's choicest blessing and pleases Him (Mosiah 4:12, Hebrews 11:6).

Also, my love for the Book of Mormon has deepened. Although it is an ancient book, it is packed with timeless wisdom. If we incorporate its messages, our voyage away from God will be more enjoyable and easier (Jacob 7:23). One of my favorite scriptures is Mormon 8:35. Moroni, along with many other prophets saw our day and wrote to us. We can learn from their examples, experiences, testimonies, and warnings. The Book is true.

I am so excited to hear that Ben will be serving in Italy (thanks for the pics). I think I still own an Italian textbook from when I studied it in college. If you like, you can search for it -- Good luck haha! I am also happy to hear he will be leaving after I return. I look forward to seeing "the guys" again. Tell Ben I love him. Also, update me when Kameron receives his call.

Anywho, love you guys tons. Keep me updated

Elder Jonathan Kaufman

PS: See latest pictures from Roy on the top right column of this web page (Roy, May 18 2010)
PS : Don't forget to scroll down below to watch BJ reading his call letter - Bhk

Benjamin received his mission call!!!!

BJ CALL LETTER @ Yahoo! Video

Benjamin will have to report at the MTC on September 29.
Jonathan will be able to see him off at the airport! And that's the way it goes! Another wave of missionaries accepting a call to serve the Lord! We are also awaiting Kameron's call ANY DAY NOW....
Never a dull moment.

WEEK 89 - It Was a Delight Speaking to All of You Again

Mommy,

It was a delight speaking to all of you again. I am happy to hear that everything is well and learn of all the updates. Thank you. You guys are the best. I love you guys a lot.


Are area is continuing to blossom. We are seeing a lot of success and praising the Lord. It is amazing. Thank you for all of your prayers.

Please thank the Carpenters and the Primary. I received their cards today. :)

Today I saw Sister Austad at the temple. They say Hi!

I love you a lot:
Elder Jonathan Kaufman
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It was good talking to you pops:)

I miss you so much. I can't wait to return and jam in mah room. Good times.

Hopefully all is well and the Lord is blessing our family with his love.

Love yah:)

Elder Jonathan Kaufman

WEEK 88 - Happy Birthday Dad

Hey pops

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

How was your birthday and what did you do?
I really miss being with all of you guys. I hope you fully enjoyed your birthday.

Did you run 5 miles? I hope you did.

Can you believe I am 21? I can't. I feel so old. Haha now I know what you feel like...joking.

Thank you for honoring your responsibilities as father and as leader. Your devotion and testimony inspire me and provide an excellent model for me to follow. I have always looked (and still do) up to you and I hope I can be more like you. You have always been there for me and supported me in whatever I've done. You allowed me to exercise agency, after having first taught me true principle. This helped me become the man I am today. Thank you.
I love you deeply.

Happy birthday dad. Thank you for your birthday wishes!

Love,
Elder Jonathan Kaufman


Hey Mom,

You are the best! Thank you so much for your birthday wishes.

Deviant youth commonly tamper with mail in Roy, Utah. This week they decided to tamper with ours. Two sources bring happiness to missionaries: Baptism (new investigators) and letters or packages. As you can imagine, this act greatly affected our attitudes. Haha... However, we found out that instead of stealing letters, they typically leave them on a near by road. That being said, one of the missionaries we live with, while proselyting, found two letters addressed to him -- neat miracle, huh?. Since that incident, we have received and mailed out letters without complications. I regularly receive your letters, so keep em' coming. I also received your package. Thank you so much. I love it! You guys all look great. Give my thanks to every one please!

I am glad I am staying in Roy. There are many investigators and families whom I love and look forward to knowing better. I am happy, healthy and honored to be missionary right now. As you know, I am very optimistic and plan on remaining that way.

Turning 21 is absolutely scary! Also, it is very hard to imagine that I will celebrate my next birthday at home. I am sure that idea makes you happy -- It makes me happy too.

Many families have invited us to dinner today. It will be very difficult to share time equally with the families I love ... Life can be so hard at times;). The friends we have made, really bring joy to our lives. They make life easier and are willing to help out in any way. I am really grateful for the wonderful families here in Utah and throughout the world -- Thank you.

The Stevenson family (a fellowshipping family for our investigator) took us to Maddox (a restaurant..a really good one) for my birthday in Brigham city. Isn't that too nice? I love them so much!

As for our missionary efforts, we are doing extremely well. We are finding and baptizing. In fact, we will baptize Ashely this saturday. She is 16 years old and has had great influences and examples all around her, her whole life. She is currently facing a very difficult time; however, she appreciates how the gospel of Christ brings relief and mends the wounded heart (Jacob 2:8). Because the gospel has positevely affected her life, she wants to dedicate it to God through baptism. We have had many spiritual lessons and great talks. I know she is growing her testimony and love for God. It is amazing to witness that.

On a lighter note, I want to share a funny experience. We were supposed to teach Ashely on Friday at the Stevensons home; however, both Ashely and the Stevenson forgot about the lesson. We were very discouraged and let down because every lesson cancelled that day. Accordingly, we thought it would be appropriate to release our frustrations on the Stevensons because they would understand and see the humor in it. After thinking about what to do for a couple of minutes, we decided to t.p their car!! since they always leave their door unlocked and gave us the o.k to walk in whenever we wanted, we did and used their toilet paper to t.p their car! It was priceless!

I know the gospel is true and restored through the instrumentality of Joseph Smith. It improves lives and gives hope for a brighter future and easier life. Scriptures testify and teach of Christ and his atonement. They also help better understand his qualities. It welcomes the spirit and leads to happiness (Jacob 7:23).

I love you:)

Thanks again for all the birthday wishes!

Elder Jonathan Kaufman

WEEK 87 - The Lord Seems to Want Me in Roy

Mom,

Today is transfer day, and to my surprise I am not getting transfered. I was really expecting to be transfered; however, the Lord seems to want me in Roy. After speaking with President Olson about transfer he told me that "he needs my leadership and me to continue to build Roy". In fact, last week Elder Kreiberg and I found 2 sincere investigators and 2 really cool families. I am sure these new friendships will enrich my experience here. In addition to that, I will also have the opportunities to see some of our investigators get baptized.

Last Sunday two of our recent-converts, Don and Sheri Scott, gave talks in sacrament meeting. They presented their thoughts in a very professional manner and bore sweet testimony. I learned that missionary work, profoundly impacts lives. As the Scotts told the ward how they obtained their testimony of Christ and his restored church, they said we were the reason why they decided to join and considered us to be a crucial part of their conversion. Although I know without a doubt that the Holy Ghost is the ultimate teacher and converter (Moroni 10:5; Corinthians 12:3; St John 16:13...), without missionaries (full-time and member missionaries), others would have a hard time learning and hearing the gospel message. Hearing and listening to the gospel precedes and leads the converting power of the Holy Ghost to take place in people's hearts (Romans 10:17). Therefore, missionaries are instruments in God's hands (Alma 17:11) and can assist the Holy Ghost in teaching the gospel. This work has great importance and value. Its effects are far-reaching: without missionaries, our family would have never been introduced to the gospel and never have the opportunity to be sealed under God's power and authority in the holy temple. Because of missionaries, we can live together forever and in some future day teach bless our future famliy with the plan of happiness (Alma 39:16). I am grateful for missionaries -. I am convinced that God, through the Holy Ghost and missionaries, impacts and improves lives.

My testimony has been strengthened as I have seen those I teach cling to the gospel. I know it is true and blesses families,

Give my best to Blake Willie. Please thank him for his kind words.


I love you with all of my heart.

Love,
Elder Jonathan Kaufman

Dad,

It's almost your birthday!! Are you still planning of running 5 miles?
Please tell all the Youth and Stake that I look forward to seeing them soon.
I will pray for Patick. He is in my prayers always.
Tell Becca I love and miss her!!
Love yah:)
Elder Jonathan Kaufman

WEEK -86 - The Sun Is Shinning, the Weather Is Warming, and the Flowers Are Blooming.

Mom,

The sun is shinning, the weather is warming, and the flowers are blooming. If you cannot tell, I am extremely content and happy. Serving as a missionary in beautiful weather is motivating and a delight. People are friendlier and a lot more receptive to our gospel message. In fact, Elder Kreiberg and I found 3 new investigators last week. Finding, teaching, and baptizing have become my new hobby. Also, I must confess, Roy is a little more appealing -- don't quote me on that one;)

Last week will be one to remember. Elder Kreiberg and I baptized two of our investigators: Harold Gary and Darius Jimerson. (See picture in the right column entitled: Latest pictures from Roy. Ref to week 86, and click on the picture to see more)These two special individuals taught me valuable lessons. Both Harold and Darius have unwavering faith and a solid testimony of the risen Lord and His restored Church. Although they were not baptized until last week, the lives they led were in complete harmony with the teachings of the Master, Jesus Christ. Just as the stripling warriors were taught and remembered the words of their mothers, Harold and Darius attribute the goodness of their lives to their mothers too. Because of their mothers, they were taught to "refuse evil and choose the good" (2 nephi 17:15). I am convinced this is the reason that cause them to embrace the restored gospel. I am grateful to all mothers who honor their stewardship's: To nurture, teach, and love. Thank you for all you do and the examples you set -- they never go unnoticed and have a far-reaching effect. Motherhood promotes and leads to obedience (alma 57:21). I am especially grateful for you (mom). Thank you for you sharing your testimony, demonstrating your love through countless acts, and trusting me. I will forever remember the lessons and love you have and will share with me. Thank you.

In addition to attending two baptisms, we also attended Darius' wedding. He has so many friends who love and support him. Really, the factor that led to his spiritual conversion was a social conversion. Members are the life-blood of missionary. With them, missionary flourishes; without, missionary productivity suffers. Continue to assist and offer help to your missionaries. The Lord will bless you tremendously.

Thank you for all of your support. I love and appreciate you.

I look forward to my package. :)


Love yah,
Elder Jonathan Kaufman

WEEK 85 - Its Seems Like the Lord Is Overflowing our Mission Experience with Tender Mercies

Dear Mommy,

Congratulations on your new calling. You connect well with the Primary-aged children. I am confident that God will help you prepare and teach them the importance of living gospel throughout their lives. Alma 37:35 suggests that we learn and practice the gospel early in our lives. Without Primary, I am sure I would not be the same person I am today. I am extremely grateful for what I learned. Although it seemed like we (Pat, Chris, Jason, and the gang) were not listening, gospel truths penetrated and permeated our minds and influence and govern our choices today. Thank you.

We look forward to baptizing 3 individuals this week. We met another individual who wants to get baptized this Friday -- talk about a 1 week conversion! Its seems like the Lord is overflowing our mission experience with tender mercies. These miracles enrich my testimony and verify this Book of Mormon verse: Mormon 9:19. I know God inspires us to be in the 'right' places at the 'right' times. Speaking of these miracles, yesterday we met a man who wants to be baptized on Friday (this Friday). What's more, he is fully prepared: he has gone to church many times and is reading and praying daily. The temporal and temporary blessings the world offers and gives, are outweighed by the spiritual and durable blessings God promises.

I am still losing weight and becoming fit. Actually, many missionaries tell me I am getting 'skinny'. I don't mind that at all. I attribute all of this to my diet and constant exercise -- it works!

For my package. Suprise me.

I do talk to Elder Bland. I serve near him. I like him a lot.
Oh! Elder Fairbanks came to visit me a couple nights ago. He has been home for 5 weeks now.
I miss him alot.

I forgot to say I love you!
I really do.:)
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Dad, I randomly met up with Kam in Salt Lake. It was'nt planned. God put us in the right place I guess.

Love yah
Elder Jonathan Kaufman

ELDER WONG IS BACK - APRIL 8 2010

What a joy to watch the happy reunion! Welcome back Brandon. (Filmed at Pierre Elliot Trudeau Airport Wednesday night @ around 9:45pm.)

WEEK 84- Attending General Conference Was an Amazing Experience

Mommy,

Travelling down to Salt-Lake city and attending general conference was an amazing experience. Viewing Temple Square and being surrounded (exlcuding the rude anti's) by many people who subscribe to identical beliefs, helped me feel the fruits of the Gospel: "but that they should look forward with one eye, having one faith, and one baptism, having their hearts knit together in unity and in love towards another" (Mosiah 18:21, D&C 38:27). In addition of appreciating the beautiful surroundings and having the privilege of hearing and meeting general authorities naturally enriched my testimony.

I had the privilege of attending 4 sessions of General Conference (Saturday afternoon session through the concluding session). Listening to the angelic voices produced by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, gathering with priesthood holders (both physically and spiritually), and listening to the inspiring words of our Heavenly Father's chosen servants, left me with deep and wide resolve to improve. On top of that, my conviction, pertaining to continuing revelation has increased. I feel energized and have re-committed myself to righteous living.

The most valuable principle I learned was that we have the capacity to be as righteous as we want. Our Savior commanded us to be like Him (3 Nephi 27:27). That being said, we are entitled to aid and assistance as we undertake this task thoroughly by applying and internalizing Christlike attributes, as they are outlined all throughout the scriptures. This will foster an atmosphere which will invite the spirit of God to accompany us and provide help as we attempt to improve. However, failure to incorparate these attributes will obstruct our progress and deprive ourselves of eternal blessings in this life and the next. "This life [IS] the time for men to prepare to meet God" (Alma 34:32). I pray that all of us will acquire a sense of urgency and develop God like attributes today.

Atfer the concluding session of conference, Elder Christoffersen made his way toward us and shook many hands -- I was one of the lucky few who shook his hand. I was amazed to discover that I am taller than he LOL.

Also, I met up with Kameron Lahache and Steve (a friend from Ottawa). It was great seing them. Give my love to all my friends.

Also, please thank Bro. and Sis. Carpenter. It was a delight to receive an email from them. I will write them back next week. Tell them I love and miss them dearly.

Our area is blossoming. We anticipate to baptize 3 next week. The Lord is constant and helps unmask their hidden concerns.

Revelation is true. I know God lives. I know his plan is unfolded to us through his prophets.

The Gospel has the ability to perpetuate happiness and promote peace -- It is the solution to salvation.

Oh yah, the girl in the picture that I am arm wrestling, is Bishop's Steven's daughter...he served in Montreal awhile ago! and the Mexican, is David Hernandez. I taught him back in Logan and then baptized him when I left to Roy. The pic of the 4 of us in our suits, is the baptism of A.J Lawrence. He stands next to me...in the pic.

PS: Brooke sent me healthy muffins, a tie and gorgeous pictures. She's the best....

Love you,
Elder Jonathan Kaufman

Watch more pictures from Temple Square by clicking the link to the Silde Show on the right column entitled: TEMPLE SQUARE GC APRIL 2010

WEEK 83- I Am Happy. I Think in Consequence of Doing the Lord's Work, It is Easier to Be Happy.

Hey Mom,

I had an amazing time with Cedric and Justin. I am glad he told you all about our time spent together. As for the rules, I was absolutely permitted to see and hang out with them. Don't worry about that.

I am happy. I think in consequence of doing the Lord's work it is easier to be happy. Although all of us make mistakes and fall short, the gospel brings hope for a better tomorrow (Ether 12:4) and the condition of forgiveness through repentance. Really, we have every reason to rejoice. It is our choice to remain in despair or to ascend to optimism. Through the atonement we can reach maximum happiness.

Elder Kreiberg and I baptized India Bingham on Saturday! The whole family has become re-activated and are enjoying quality time together at church. The gospel induced a mighty change in that family -- it is so visible.

Elder Kreiberg and I found 3 new investigators this week. Harold Garry is from the Bronx, New York and has a very charismatic attitude. Although he has a tendency to deviate from our lesson, he accepted the challenge to be baptized. Also, we found an old couple who subscribe to this concept: 'All churches lead to Heaven'. While we were struggling to find the right words to say, we offered a silent prayer and received special inspiration. We felt prompted to extend a baptism challenge. To our surprise, they accepted and felt a need to be baptized. That was definitely God working through us -- an amazing experience.

Anywho, love you lots and look forward to your next email, letter:)

Elder Jonathan Kaufman

p.s : Brooke sent me a package today! ou lala haha

loveeeee

(See more pictures in the slideshow on the right column: LATEST PICTURES FROM ROY, UTAH)

WEEK 82- I Just Found out that I Will Be Able to Attend General Conference in Two Weeks

Mommy,

I just found out that I will be able to attend General Conference in two weeks, along with all the other missionaries I came out with. I am hoping that I will have the privilege of meeting many General Authorities. Speaking of General Authorities, last Friday we drove by President Uchtdorf and Elder Bednar's homes in Val Verda (near Bountiful). The Southern part of our mission is absolutely beautiful. I have never appreciated that before because I have been up North for most of my mision. I hopefully will end my mission somewhere down there.

Aren't the Dunns awesome?! I love them. A lot of my fondest memories were formed in their home. They are the family that help started and offered their home for youth night. What's more, we were so close that we often pranked each other. The Dunns call pretty often, so we keep in touch.

The feeling you feel after you are released from a calling or an assignment is amazing. The Lord sends his spirit to tranquilize and pacify your soul to indicate a job well done. The Lord's approval and support is what we should seek. I experienced that on my bedside while praying when I was released as a zone leader. I am certain the Lord sent his soothing spirit to you as well.

On Sunday we ran into a former investigator. Besides letting us teach him again, he also allowed us to work out in his personal gym every morning. Is that not a tender mercy or what? I told him that while we help him strengthen and workout his spiritual body, we will work out our physical bodies. I know its Corny, but it is true. ha ha

Next week Elder Kreiberg and I will baptize India Bingham. Speaking of tender mercies, the Lord allowed and assisted us in baptizing 5 individuals for the month of March. If the lord is a part of your companionship you will never fail. Whatever he touches (psychically and figuratively) lives.

As for pictures. I promise you will receive some next week.

In your letter you mentioned that I have adopted a new 'lingo'. What do I say that is different?

Give Elder Carpenter and Glowa my best. Tell them I love them. And tell Chris I think of him often.

Love yah!
Elder Jonathan Kaufman

p.s Brooke wrote last Tuesday!

Love yah.

Dad:
I do have a guitar. We play a lot. Elder Kreiberg is really good. He also played in a band. We write arrangements to many hymns and perform them at zone conferences and baptisms. It is great. Yes. I recorded them.

anywho love you too.
Elder Jonathan Kaufman

A WONDERFUL SURPRISE LETTER FROM LOGAN

We received this letter on Monday, 22 March 2010. What a pleasure it was to receive this news from the Dunn Family!
This family is doing a great work to help the youth be acquainted with the gospel (as you will read in the letter). We are grateful to them for their hospitality and friendship to our son and his companions and to the youth of their area! What a great idea to have "pancakes parties" with the youth.

Serving a mission is a blessing indeed in so many ways. Now we understand why Elder Kaufman says ''the friendships I have established on my mission are incredible". The gospel really blesses all those who are engaged in it, the recipient as well as the giver. The great plan of happiness is in the reach of all those who long for it!!!!
BhK

WEEK 81 - The Friendships that I Have Established on My Mission Are Incredible

Mommy,

I have upgraded my email account 4 weeks ago. It was simple and convenient. All of my emails were automatically transferred to this account. What's more, I do not need to worry about deleting any emails because of the increased capacity to hold emails. Its a beautiful thing.

Utah is dramatically warming up and I am loving it. My best experiences as a missionary are formed in the spring and summer. I am convinced that Heaven only experiences spring and summer ha ha...

This week Elder Kreiberg and I baptized A.J L.. He is 25 years old and has finally mustered up enough confidence to act on what God has told him. He was scared of making big changes and making commitments. After praying and fasting and receiving inspiration, Elder Kreiberg and I thought it would be best to help him (A.J) understand the true doctrine of prayer. As a result, his prayers were enriched and he received an indelible answer that convinced him to come unto Christ. It was an amazing experience. I know the Holy Ghost attended with him as he sought truth. He is now working towards the temple, anticipating his endowment from God, and preparing for a celestial and eternal marriage. The Gospel of Christ is the power of God unto salvation.

The friendships that I have established on my mission are incredible. Meeting and talking with families, recent coverts and youth have really brightened my life and given me a great love for the Gospel. I am grateful that the same sociality that exists here is present in Heaven. Being surrounded and loved by others is truly a blessing sent from Heaven. God knows how to gladden any individuals heart. We just have to live within His Plan of Happiness to find it.

I had the chance to eat lunch with Cedric and Justin Haworth (Allison Bill's fiance) yesterday. I had a great time talking with them. If anything, I am now feeling comfortable about the idea of returning home. It will be tough, but it will work out. I also talked with Allison Bill on the phone. It was good to hear from her and learn about things back home. I can't believe she will be married before I return. Isn't that crazy! I too want to marry in the San Diego temple. It looks so majestic and holy -- It's beautiful.

The work here in Roy is 'rockin'. We are being blessed with many new investigators who are accepting baptism dates. We are teaching a lot of youth lately. I think when I return, I would love to be a seminary teacher or something like that. I love teaching the youth. I love teaching.

Anyhow, I am doing well: losing weight and gaining muscle. Also, my tan is visible. I really have no complaints. WE are probably gonna play soccer today.

I love you like a mouse loves cheese haha

Elder Jonathan Kaufman

WEEK 80 - This Week I Had the Privilege of Talking to Two Mothers

Mom,

The sun shines brightly and the weather is beautifully warm, in Roy ....

I apologize for not telling you - yes, I am actually in a walking area. I am glad I am walking rather than driving in a car because we have more opportunities to talk to people, enjoy the weather and get in shape. During the course of my mission I have gained a lot of weight and lost a lot of muscle; however, I have a new resolution to regain muscle and to lose a lot of fat. In fact, for the past 3 weeks I have started my diet and re-implemented my workout routine. As an outcome, I feel a lot healthier and look so much better. Sorry for parading my pride, but my 6-pack is visible again! Miracles haven't ceased ha ha... However, I do need to confess, yesterday one of our bishops, 'lovingly' forced me in to eating a brownie his wife made. I felt so guilty afterwards -- Life goes one.

This week I had the privilege of talking to two mothers (less-active) who are experiencing great struggles. Both of them thought it would be best to talk over the phone. The only downside to that was the fact that they were both crying, thus making it very hard to understand what they were saying. Disconnected words like "scared", "lost", and "sorry" were the only words I understood. I felt so sad and did not have the courage to ask them to repeat what they said. Instead, I offered a silent prayer and waited to receive revelation from God on how to help these individuals out. The only thing that came to mind was to share a scripture. I shared a very profound verse from the book of 3 Nephi. Here Jesus is speaking to the 'less-actives' of that day and said, "Return unto me". The reason why this verse is profound is because of two factors: 1. Jesus' famously echoed invitation, never changes. (he is constant and consistent). He never says, "Depart from me, or Catch me if you can". 2. The reference read 24/7. This invitation is offered every hour of the day, and ever day of the week. Doesn't God love us eternally? He does. I know it. I testify of it.

Two of our investigators understood that love that God possesses. As a result, they were baptized. These baptisms were remarkable. There were well over a hundred in attendance.
Those are the best baptisms. Also, Elder Kreiberg and I performed a musical number, which we recorded.

I love you and miss you....a lot
Elder Jonathan Kaufman

WEEK 79 - Roy Is on Fire

Mommy,

I am so jealous that you and dad went on vacation, while Elder Kreiberg and I worked our tails off here in glamorous Roy...! I must say, ...we are seeing and receiving many blessings from God. We are currently projected to baptize 7 this month and 4 for the next. Roy is on fire. It is amazing and life changing to be a part of the Lord's work and to spiritually see God's hand take control. We had the privilege of seeing Jeff C. enter into eternal promises with God through baptism this passed week. He is a changed man who is ready to meet God's expectations as covenant child of God -- It's glorious.

Recently, the leadership in our mission was trained by the MTC. They are trying to emphasize the importance of focusing on our investigators rather than ourselves. Too often we ask questions like: What could I do to improve?; What do I need to teach and so forth. Idealy, we need to stop thinking inward and start thinking outward. I realized that internalizing this concept will help me become a true disciple of Christ. I look forward to receive much needed revelation that will help us uncover our gator's concerns and help them progress.


Love yah

Elder Jonathan Kaufman.

WEEK 78 - Another Great Week Has Passed

Mommy,

I can't believe you and dad will soon be married for 34 years. You guys are amazing! I constantly think of and pray for you. You are amazing examples for me and help me aqcuire a stronger resolution to be my best self. I owe you a millions 'thank you's'. I love you tremendously.

Another great week has passed. I actually had the privilege of returning to Logan and baptizing a individual I taught for 4 months. It felt good being in Logan again; however, seing David H. follow Christ and be baptized was the crowning event of my experience up in Logan.
While we were changing back into our dry clothes, I asked him what made him decide to be baptized. He replied, "it was because of you". You can only imagine how I felt at that time. I immediately thought of John 14:27. This scripture taught me that no earthly source can compare to the peace and happiness that heaven brings to those who live in harmony with God's word.
What's more, next week we will be baptizing Jeff C. He used to be a baptist minister; however, after teaching true doctrine and inviting him to follow Christ through baptism performed with God's authority and power, he accepted and realized that the gospel he is now embracing, contains complete truth about God, His ways, and His plan.
It was a remarkable and a memorable experience for my companion and I. Elder Kreiberg is a new missionary, so he is loving all of this success -- as I am.

Elder Kreiberg and I are having a lot of fun and are finding success. Keep praying for us:)

I know the gospel is restored, and benefits all those who apply and then re-apply its principles.

I love you... a lot.

Elder Jonathan Kaufman

P.S. I did receive your letter keep sending them....and I did receive Brooke's. please tell her I am writing her today.:)

WEEK 77- The Gospel is Restored and the Lord Lives and Is engaged in Our Lives.

Mommy,


This past week was awesome. We baptized 1 girl named Bailey D. We found 4 new investigators, and challenged them all to baptism. We are currently projected to baptize 4 for this month and 7 for the next.

I discovered there is a direct correlation between humility and success. It took me 16 months to realize this -- pretty sad huh. I used to believe that missionaries acquired success based on their level skills, which is a common misconception. However, I learned that as we obtain that perspective we are really telling the Lord: thanks for the offer, but I will do it myself. If that is the way we approach and greet the LORDS work, which is again, HIS work, we are bound to fail. We need to obtain His perspective, determine His will, and then be at peace with it. Doing those three things will aid anyone in their righteous pursuits and endeavors. What's more, internalizing those three goals will assist us in our advancement and progression in Gods plan of happiness. I am reminded of the promise and assurance given to those who express humility to the Lord. Ether 12:27 states that as we recognize our weaknesses and faults and turn toward the Lord (come unto me) we will find access to the Lord's grace, which will help transform our weaknesses to strengths. Again, this is only possible through the enabling power of the Atonement. I know it is real, and power could be granted to us according to our compliance and willingness to live within the gospel limits.

The Gospel is restored and the Lord lives and is engaged in our lives. Prayer will help us discover those eternal truths.

I love you