Friday, May 8, 2009
Monday, May 4, 2009
Regan May 4, 2009
I hope everything with all of you is going as well is it has been here.
Everything here this week has been full of miracles and new strengths that are hard to exactly put into words at the moment.
On Wednesday we talked with Misty and the kids and were making sure that they were still planning to come to the Barbecue on Thursday. As we were there one of Misty's friends she has been talking to asked us if we could give her a blessing. I truly was an instrument in the Lord's hands and felt the spirit envelop me 3 times during her blessing. We taught her a brief restoration and set up an appointment for this Wednesday. Her name is Krystal and she has 8 children.
On Thursday we had the Barbecue with some ward members and our ward mission leaders family. Misty and her family came and so did Jeff and Kira. We enjoyed each others company and taught some things and finished the night of by watching the Testaments DVD. It was very powerful and the spirit was powerful.
On Friday we went over and taught Misty's children. Masen is 15 and we committed her to Baptism for May 30th. We then visited a potential investigator who is in a hospice and taught her. Her name is Betty Sawyer and we have another appointment with her tomorrow. We then went and taught Kevin and Joey. Misty's two sons. We also committed them to Baptism with Masen on May 30th.
On Friday we went and taught Kevin and Joey the Plan of Salvation. We also committed them to Mark and Read in the Book of Mormon each day. They said they would.
On Sunday Joey, Jeff, and Kira were at church with us. Joey stayed the whole time and enjoyed it. Masen and Kevin will be there with Joey next week.
We were asked by our President Summerhays to attend Elder Bednar's CES fireside. For those who had the opportunity it was amazing. He shared some very powerful messages with this generation of youth that I would love to pass on.
Elder Bednar stated:
"The youth of this generation have a greater capacity for obedience than any other generation.” Spirits of the faithful, coming to the earth in this generation, have a greater capacity for valiance, courage and obedience.”
“Lucifer tempts us to misuse or minimize our bodies to decrease our happiness and increase our misery.” “Lucifer encourages us to Lower the Bar.” “Lucifer will lead us into lowering the bar by suggesting we take a few minutes of needed relief from a hectic daily schedule and engage in activities that lack fidelity.”
One other thing that I would like to add is that "Obedience is our Weapon to fight the Adversary."
I know of these things that he has said for a surety because the Holy Ghost has given a witness to me of the truth of these things. I know that has we all strive for Exact Obedience to the Gospel that we will have power to overcome all that stands in our way. I know that Our Heavenly Father lives. That he sent his Begotten Son to take upon the sins of the world and through him we can return to his presence. I Know that through the resurrection that Jesus Christ lives and that we to can live. I know that through Modern Day revelation that we know for a surety of the true Nature of the Godhead. I know that the rightful power of the Priesthood has been restored to bless us all not only individually but as families for time and all eternity. I know that the Book of Mormon is the Word of God and answers the questions that we seek for each and everyday. I know through Daily prayers and reading that we will continually be strengthened and receive guidance and protection over the Adversary. I know that Joseph Smith was and Instrument in the Lords hands who brought forth the Gospel in it Fullness for these latter days. I know and Testify of these things in the Sacred name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
I love All of you.
Elder Regan Hansen
Everything here this week has been full of miracles and new strengths that are hard to exactly put into words at the moment.
On Wednesday we talked with Misty and the kids and were making sure that they were still planning to come to the Barbecue on Thursday. As we were there one of Misty's friends she has been talking to asked us if we could give her a blessing. I truly was an instrument in the Lord's hands and felt the spirit envelop me 3 times during her blessing. We taught her a brief restoration and set up an appointment for this Wednesday. Her name is Krystal and she has 8 children.
On Thursday we had the Barbecue with some ward members and our ward mission leaders family. Misty and her family came and so did Jeff and Kira. We enjoyed each others company and taught some things and finished the night of by watching the Testaments DVD. It was very powerful and the spirit was powerful.
On Friday we went over and taught Misty's children. Masen is 15 and we committed her to Baptism for May 30th. We then visited a potential investigator who is in a hospice and taught her. Her name is Betty Sawyer and we have another appointment with her tomorrow. We then went and taught Kevin and Joey. Misty's two sons. We also committed them to Baptism with Masen on May 30th.
On Friday we went and taught Kevin and Joey the Plan of Salvation. We also committed them to Mark and Read in the Book of Mormon each day. They said they would.
On Sunday Joey, Jeff, and Kira were at church with us. Joey stayed the whole time and enjoyed it. Masen and Kevin will be there with Joey next week.
We were asked by our President Summerhays to attend Elder Bednar's CES fireside. For those who had the opportunity it was amazing. He shared some very powerful messages with this generation of youth that I would love to pass on.
Elder Bednar stated:
"The youth of this generation have a greater capacity for obedience than any other generation.” Spirits of the faithful, coming to the earth in this generation, have a greater capacity for valiance, courage and obedience.”
“Lucifer tempts us to misuse or minimize our bodies to decrease our happiness and increase our misery.” “Lucifer encourages us to Lower the Bar.” “Lucifer will lead us into lowering the bar by suggesting we take a few minutes of needed relief from a hectic daily schedule and engage in activities that lack fidelity.”
One other thing that I would like to add is that "Obedience is our Weapon to fight the Adversary."
I know of these things that he has said for a surety because the Holy Ghost has given a witness to me of the truth of these things. I know that has we all strive for Exact Obedience to the Gospel that we will have power to overcome all that stands in our way. I know that Our Heavenly Father lives. That he sent his Begotten Son to take upon the sins of the world and through him we can return to his presence. I Know that through the resurrection that Jesus Christ lives and that we to can live. I know that through Modern Day revelation that we know for a surety of the true Nature of the Godhead. I know that the rightful power of the Priesthood has been restored to bless us all not only individually but as families for time and all eternity. I know that the Book of Mormon is the Word of God and answers the questions that we seek for each and everyday. I know through Daily prayers and reading that we will continually be strengthened and receive guidance and protection over the Adversary. I know that Joseph Smith was and Instrument in the Lords hands who brought forth the Gospel in it Fullness for these latter days. I know and Testify of these things in the Sacred name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
I love All of you.
Elder Regan Hansen
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
April 28 2009
Hello,
Yesterday I wasn't able to email because of the Monday holiday that happens around here. I appreciate all the birthday greetings that I received and thank you for that. It wasn't to bad of a day but it could of been better, if we would of had more investigators at church. We had plenty of commitments but no follow ups which seems to be quite common around here. This week I look forward to because we found six new investigators, who we will talk to this week and find there houses. The one thing about the townships is the houses have no numerical order so sometimes it is tricky to find where your going in this part of the vineyard. This last week was pretty laid back despite the elections but we were able to do some productive things such as a couple of games of football and soccer on Tuesday and have workshops and interviews. I really enjoy the interviews and workshops and admire the care and love that President and Sister Probst have for the missionaries. With the many missionaries that President Probst has to watch over it really boggles my mind to know how he remembers each and every missionary in the mission, and how they are doing. He truly inspires me with the wisdom that he has. We were able to have two full working days though on Thursday and Friday where we were able to get some less active hours and also some service hours which is harder to get in the townships since the people don't have any money. I am really getting used to their square mouth shovel and it is a tool for everything around here, even to cut the lawn. It truly makes me miss the dependability and durability of the American tools instead of third world country tools. While Ive been here In Mdantsane I am amazed at the love the Xhosa people have for missionaries and when we pass by everyone says umlungu which means white person which the kids typically have fun with since not many white people are here. The kids around here have nothing to do in this town so we usually see them playing the tire and stick game where they roll a tire across the road with a pair of sticks with piece of plastic at the end of the stick to prevent the friction and therefore makes it slick on the inside of the tire. Some of them are usually pretty good. A lot of the problem around here encompass the law of chastity since not a lot of amusement is around and absolutely nothing to do. I look forward to talking to you on mothers day, give me a time when you want me to call, I don't know what the time difference is now, but I think it is 8 hours with daylight savings. Just let me know what time we will call from the church when ever. Here's a few pictures from the previous weeks take care have a good week.
love
Elder Tyler Hansen
Monday, April 27, 2009
Regan April 27, 2009
Well this week has been really great. We had Zone Conference on Friday and it just caused the week to be exciting.
We had a few great lessons this past week with all of our investigators. We were able to go and visit Jeff and Kira this week and teach them both about the Plan of Salvation. We also asked them how they had been doing on there commitments with the Word of Wisdom. Kira had been doing real well. She told us that she always had a warm cup of coffee in her hand from 7:30 in the Morning until 5 at night. She has not cut it down to 2 cups a day. She has such great desires to change and follow this great gospel. They attended church with us this week and it was great. They both enjoyed the experience and will be coming back.
Zone Conference was amazing as always. President always expresses his love so dearly and you can truly feel our Savior's love radiating from him. We talked allot about how we are doing everything in our power and the Lord has prepared us to be strong servants. Even though some areas have been slow he knows that even if we are not blessed now from our service we will see it all unfold throughout the rest of our life.
We have been able to talk with Misty and her family this week. Kevin, Joey, and Masen really have learned to love the Gospel. Masen asked Sister Malcolm at activity night about some things and she taught her the first 2 lessons. It went really well and I could tell she was truly touched. We talked to Misty and Masen told her that she wants to become Mormon. We will be working with there whole family later this week and continued progress with them.
I have really come to notice how strong the power of prayers is in the lives of our investigators. I feel that if it wasn't for the Pleading and Fervent prayers that I have had for all of them that their hearts would of not been as soft and open to all that has happened these past 2 weeks. Blessing upon blessings and Miracles upon Miracles will continue in all of our lives and in the lives of others as we all prayer for each other.
Love You
Elder Regan Hansen
We had a few great lessons this past week with all of our investigators. We were able to go and visit Jeff and Kira this week and teach them both about the Plan of Salvation. We also asked them how they had been doing on there commitments with the Word of Wisdom. Kira had been doing real well. She told us that she always had a warm cup of coffee in her hand from 7:30 in the Morning until 5 at night. She has not cut it down to 2 cups a day. She has such great desires to change and follow this great gospel. They attended church with us this week and it was great. They both enjoyed the experience and will be coming back.
Zone Conference was amazing as always. President always expresses his love so dearly and you can truly feel our Savior's love radiating from him. We talked allot about how we are doing everything in our power and the Lord has prepared us to be strong servants. Even though some areas have been slow he knows that even if we are not blessed now from our service we will see it all unfold throughout the rest of our life.
We have been able to talk with Misty and her family this week. Kevin, Joey, and Masen really have learned to love the Gospel. Masen asked Sister Malcolm at activity night about some things and she taught her the first 2 lessons. It went really well and I could tell she was truly touched. We talked to Misty and Masen told her that she wants to become Mormon. We will be working with there whole family later this week and continued progress with them.
I have really come to notice how strong the power of prayers is in the lives of our investigators. I feel that if it wasn't for the Pleading and Fervent prayers that I have had for all of them that their hearts would of not been as soft and open to all that has happened these past 2 weeks. Blessing upon blessings and Miracles upon Miracles will continue in all of our lives and in the lives of others as we all prayer for each other.
Love You
Elder Regan Hansen
Monday, April 20, 2009
Regan April 20, 2009
Well this past week has been a week for me personally up and down. It has seemed like everything is hitting me harder than ever but then everything is blessing me and our work.
This passed week we talked to Misty and she wants to be baptized which is great but she hasn't married Brad and most likely he won't move out. We found out they are planning on getting married in June which lifted me up again. She told us how she was talking with a preacher this past week who helped her with some bills. They ended up talking about the Book of Mormon and she defended it. It was exciting to here and understand that she is gaining a testimony of it's truth. She even included that she talked about Joseph Smith and explained that a bit. She is an awesome Daughter of God.
We talked with Jeffrey and Kira this week. We committed them to Live the Word of Wisdom and expressed how it would greatly improve there quality of Life. They said they would and also they would do it Cold Turkey. All seems to be going well that way.
We had activity night and were able to have Misty's kids come again. It is great that they want to come and enjoy it. We have really begun a great friendship and trust us. We should be able to teach them all very shortly and maybe even set some BCD's with them. It will be awesome.
This next week we will be having Zone Conference so I am very excited about that. It is one of those things like a General Conference that just uplifts and Boosts you up to continue in the work more diligently.
When I was reading a book yesterday I found out how much Strength and Power we can receive from Virtue. It is not just keeping ourselves clean but living at the Highest Standards of the gospel and being Obedient to them. I have set myself that this next week I will be Studying Virtue and also the "Law of the Harvest." Elder Parkinson shared a bit with me and it is really intrigued me.
If you a Curious about it you can find it in Alma 41-42 and Doctrine and Covenants 45. I am really excited to learn about it because it help me to understand that even if we are not seeing everything from our work at this time that we will receive great thing because of our Good Works in the Service.
Love You
Elder Regan Hansen
This passed week we talked to Misty and she wants to be baptized which is great but she hasn't married Brad and most likely he won't move out. We found out they are planning on getting married in June which lifted me up again. She told us how she was talking with a preacher this past week who helped her with some bills. They ended up talking about the Book of Mormon and she defended it. It was exciting to here and understand that she is gaining a testimony of it's truth. She even included that she talked about Joseph Smith and explained that a bit. She is an awesome Daughter of God.
We talked with Jeffrey and Kira this week. We committed them to Live the Word of Wisdom and expressed how it would greatly improve there quality of Life. They said they would and also they would do it Cold Turkey. All seems to be going well that way.
We had activity night and were able to have Misty's kids come again. It is great that they want to come and enjoy it. We have really begun a great friendship and trust us. We should be able to teach them all very shortly and maybe even set some BCD's with them. It will be awesome.
This next week we will be having Zone Conference so I am very excited about that. It is one of those things like a General Conference that just uplifts and Boosts you up to continue in the work more diligently.
When I was reading a book yesterday I found out how much Strength and Power we can receive from Virtue. It is not just keeping ourselves clean but living at the Highest Standards of the gospel and being Obedient to them. I have set myself that this next week I will be Studying Virtue and also the "Law of the Harvest." Elder Parkinson shared a bit with me and it is really intrigued me.
If you a Curious about it you can find it in Alma 41-42 and Doctrine and Covenants 45. I am really excited to learn about it because it help me to understand that even if we are not seeing everything from our work at this time that we will receive great thing because of our Good Works in the Service.
Love You
Elder Regan Hansen
April 20 2009
Thank you for the pictures that you sent to me. It sounds like it has been a busy week. The week that I had was ok for the most part. This week I realized just how small our area really is Elder Smith and I can walk across it in just a half an hour but there are more than a thousand small houses in that area and also how supportive the youth are for the missionaries. We have two of the youth from the ward that really set the example for others in the ward they are brothers, Mlibo and Luntu they are always willing to come out with Elder Smith and I when our evenings are filled with appointments. We are able to learn quite a bit of xhosa from them. There is no one near to baptism at the moment but on Sundays we usually have quite a few at the investigator class. The one that we are particularly working with the most is Vuyolethu he is about 25 but we first met him when we went the investigator class last week and he is really improving. We gave him a Book of Mormon this past week and he has been present to all the commitments that we have given him. Thanks for the words when you said Ryan would give people blessings who was trying to stop smoking, and how that desire would be relieved, that is truly a miracle. I will remember that, a lot of the people here who drink and smoke don't want to quit and just say it make them happy and feel good. This week though is really going to be interesting. It is elections this week and for two days we aren't going to be allowed to go out and go proselyting. Election day is on the 22nd and it will be a commotion day especially in Mdantsane. The Anc is the main political party and has been in for the past 14 years or ever since the Apartate but from the sounds of things the people here really want a change especially the Africaans people with the Anc. The president running for the Anc is Jacob Zuma, he is hated or loved by the people of South Africa. I hope with the elections it will not effect the work here to much or affect most of the week but during the waiting we will have plenty to do at the boardings with catching up on area files and the books. This past week I've been trying to learn a little bit of xhosa but it is definitely not easy since the most of the time they speak english and not fluent xhosa, I have got down all the clicks but I want to learn how to bear my testimony in xhosa by the time I leave the xhosa people. I really admire the people how accepting they are to us as missionaries in almost all homes you are invited in and usually given a cool drink or food. I think the biggest insult that you could do to them is not eat all the food that they give to you because it is truly a gift from them to us. The food that they give is worth so much of there daily living it is truly humbling to see how much they give in the circumstances that they are living in. Anyways with the questions that you ask dad the bubble is just talking about the area that we have to stay in on p days to shop and email since there is nothing to do in Mdantsane. Where we live now we only have one place to do our laundry and one place to shop in since it is not very commercialized. Thanks for the emails and picture I love you all very much.
Elder Tyler Hansen
Elder Tyler Hansen
Monday, April 13, 2009
April 13 2009
Hello family,
Well today we are emailing in a different location than usual, in our bubble where we stay it is a holiday so a lot of the shops are closed and are not going to open until Tuesday. Well this week was rather a more discouraging week and I hope things will work out better through time. This past weekend it was terrible in MD with the amount of drunk people because of the holidays. It is sad to see the life that these people live and what they do all day, they have no where to go and all day to get there. They spend most their money on the booze and when they are hungry they beg until they get something so a lot of the people don't have much of a work ethic. If it is one thing that I learn while I'm here in Mdantsane it will be to love the Xhosa people despite their work ethic and the way that they live there lives, but it is difficult. The thing that really frustrates me is how they spend their money they spend more money on their tv's, booze, cars, drugs and personal entertainment than what their actual house is worth. You can see how pride really settles into their lives. This past week though Elder Smith and I worked with the Vuyelle family and read out from the Book of Mormon, She has a testimony that it is true but despite the fact she still goes to her church for the social hour or whatever they do. We explained to her that if the Book of Mormon is true, then that proves and means, several true and important points. I think the key for her family is finding a member that will befriend the Vuyelles and really take Mama Vuyelle under their wing, she is the key to that family. I am really impressed with the ward and how they are committed to missionary work, and the support that they give. But as far as this week we will just be looking forward to tracting. Right now in the area their is not much progression happening but hopefully with the 5 week transfer that we might have something happen. This transfer is shortened because President Probst has a meeting in Joburg. As for our schedule we do everything that we need to in the morning and then at one o'clock we leave to MD which is about half an hour drive from our boarding and there we stay until 8 at night or until the other elders with the car pick us up at the Hanis families house. What we eat is usually in the boarding for breakfast and lunch and then when we get back during the night at 9. The whole of East London though I would say would be as big as Salt Lake I would guess but towns spread across everywhere. Thanks for everything I hope you all have a good week, please send a picture or two sometime. Love you all and I pray for you, pray for me that my heart can be softened.
Love
Elder Tyler Hansen
Well today we are emailing in a different location than usual, in our bubble where we stay it is a holiday so a lot of the shops are closed and are not going to open until Tuesday. Well this week was rather a more discouraging week and I hope things will work out better through time. This past weekend it was terrible in MD with the amount of drunk people because of the holidays. It is sad to see the life that these people live and what they do all day, they have no where to go and all day to get there. They spend most their money on the booze and when they are hungry they beg until they get something so a lot of the people don't have much of a work ethic. If it is one thing that I learn while I'm here in Mdantsane it will be to love the Xhosa people despite their work ethic and the way that they live there lives, but it is difficult. The thing that really frustrates me is how they spend their money they spend more money on their tv's, booze, cars, drugs and personal entertainment than what their actual house is worth. You can see how pride really settles into their lives. This past week though Elder Smith and I worked with the Vuyelle family and read out from the Book of Mormon, She has a testimony that it is true but despite the fact she still goes to her church for the social hour or whatever they do. We explained to her that if the Book of Mormon is true, then that proves and means, several true and important points. I think the key for her family is finding a member that will befriend the Vuyelles and really take Mama Vuyelle under their wing, she is the key to that family. I am really impressed with the ward and how they are committed to missionary work, and the support that they give. But as far as this week we will just be looking forward to tracting. Right now in the area their is not much progression happening but hopefully with the 5 week transfer that we might have something happen. This transfer is shortened because President Probst has a meeting in Joburg. As for our schedule we do everything that we need to in the morning and then at one o'clock we leave to MD which is about half an hour drive from our boarding and there we stay until 8 at night or until the other elders with the car pick us up at the Hanis families house. What we eat is usually in the boarding for breakfast and lunch and then when we get back during the night at 9. The whole of East London though I would say would be as big as Salt Lake I would guess but towns spread across everywhere. Thanks for everything I hope you all have a good week, please send a picture or two sometime. Love you all and I pray for you, pray for me that my heart can be softened.
Love
Elder Tyler Hansen
Regan April 13, 2009
Well this week has been a bit slower but we were able to continue the good service that the lord asks of us. Sister Parson's is doing really well and her family is doing great. Thank you for all of your prayers in her behalf.
Elder Manning ended up having to come home this past week because of medical things that had been happening. I will miss him dearly but he has such a great attitude to continue the work back at home. He was called for 2 years so either way he said he will serve it here or he will finish serving it at home. He is a great example to me and a great friend.
We had District Meeting on Tuesday and I was nervous as ever being it the first one that I have had to teach. I feel as If it went real well and the spirit used me as an instrument in his hands. Elder Mortensen said that I did good so that helped me calm down a bit after.
After ward Council this week we decided to spend a couple hours in prayer and pondering on which less active members we should really focus on. We were directed in all this and came across those we had not even discussed. I feel that if we put all diligence in bringing them back that they will be strengthened and we will see the blessings that will come of it.
We were able to talk with Misty this week which has been great. She has been given a good bill of health. We have been working with the family quite a bit. We were able to have 3 of her kids come to Activity night and play basketball and they seem to enjoy it. It has been great getting to know them and the work with there family is continuing to grow and miracles will soon come in abundance as we are diligent and obedient in this work.
I have been able to listen to the Conference talks quite a few times since they were released and there are so many great talks on faith. I know that if we all strive to have the "eye" of Faith as talked about in Alma that we will all be able to control our growth in the gospel and have more power to overcome the Adversary. I know that through Obedience that Power is truly Manifest through the spirit and increases our faith so me can see many of the Miracles that are in our life each and everyday.
Love you
Elder Regan Hansen
Thank you for all the Packages and letters.
Elder Manning ended up having to come home this past week because of medical things that had been happening. I will miss him dearly but he has such a great attitude to continue the work back at home. He was called for 2 years so either way he said he will serve it here or he will finish serving it at home. He is a great example to me and a great friend.
We had District Meeting on Tuesday and I was nervous as ever being it the first one that I have had to teach. I feel as If it went real well and the spirit used me as an instrument in his hands. Elder Mortensen said that I did good so that helped me calm down a bit after.
After ward Council this week we decided to spend a couple hours in prayer and pondering on which less active members we should really focus on. We were directed in all this and came across those we had not even discussed. I feel that if we put all diligence in bringing them back that they will be strengthened and we will see the blessings that will come of it.
We were able to talk with Misty this week which has been great. She has been given a good bill of health. We have been working with the family quite a bit. We were able to have 3 of her kids come to Activity night and play basketball and they seem to enjoy it. It has been great getting to know them and the work with there family is continuing to grow and miracles will soon come in abundance as we are diligent and obedient in this work.
I have been able to listen to the Conference talks quite a few times since they were released and there are so many great talks on faith. I know that if we all strive to have the "eye" of Faith as talked about in Alma that we will all be able to control our growth in the gospel and have more power to overcome the Adversary. I know that through Obedience that Power is truly Manifest through the spirit and increases our faith so me can see many of the Miracles that are in our life each and everyday.
Love you
Elder Regan Hansen
Thank you for all the Packages and letters.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
April 7 2009
hello family
It sounds like everything is going well and the conference was great. It was also great here too, we watched all the sessions except the Sunday afternoon session. On Saturday @ 6 we watched the Saturday morning session live and then on Sunday we watched the 3 sessions @ 11 we watched the priesthood session, @ 3 we watched the Saturday evening session by satellite broadcast which had some minor difficulty but was quickly fixed and then, @ 6 we watched the Sunday morning session so it was like Christmas for us. Now that conference is over I just look forward to the next conference in six months. This week was a long week though with it being transfer week. With me and Elder Marshall requesting to stay together another transfer I knew that President Probst was going to move us. I really enjoyed the first area that I was in and had a bond with a lot of the members there and on Thursday I had to say my goodbyes to as many people as I could before I had to leave which was difficult. I really learned a lot from Elder Marshall and hope by the end of my mission I can be where he is at. He knows how to interact and show the charity that he has to others I truly learned a lot from him but I got to move on. I am now in Mdantsane with Elder Smith who is from England he has been out for about 20 months now and he is extremely smart. He also likes star wars and harry potter and just one of the random facts that he shared with me is there are 15 thousand and one guns on the death star in star wars in the 4th episode so ya he likes his star wars. I really enjoy being around him and he has a lot of knowledge and wisdom that I can learn from especially some of the deep doctrine that he likes to share with me. In Mdantsane it is very poor and the people here are in very humbling circumstances with some families even not having a car. The pump shed in our back yard is larger and in better condition than some of their homes. Many of their homes are concrete walls with a tin top and tin door with concrete floors. Their average income is of probably 400 rand (40 dollars) a week and even if that. Many of the streets are dirt road and toilets are just basically a hole in the ground in some areas with a metal shack to cover yourself as you go to the bathroom. The only thing I can relate to back in America is like a trailer park but a little worse. I just don't see how the extremes of rich and poor can be so close together in a society, and work together. It is just a few kilometers inland from Beacon Bay but the missionary work here is a lot different. We wont be able to give very much service at all which I really miss and I will be entirely with the Xhosa people, for the next transfer or so. I will probably learn a little bit of Xhosa. They know how to speak English very fluently but when you speak their language is shows how much you really care about them as a people. Our boarding now is in Cambridge and everyday we stay in our boarding til 12 and then drive out to Mdantsane and the elders with the car drop us off until 9 o'clock that evening. This week will be very interesting meeting some of the new people and especially remembering names that are Xhosa. The game drive was excellent we went there with the Christians (the older couple) and they leave at the end of April, but we were able to see many of the animals there. We seen cheetahs, white lions, zebra, giraffe, coutu, springbok, warthog, iguanas, elephants, ostriches and other stuff but It was the best p day that I have had and I don't think anything else will really top it. When we got there we went to the lodge first and checked in and then went to do the 1 hour elephant interaction afterwhich we went on a 4 hour game drive through the 5000 acre Inquenzie land. The only things that we weren't able to see was the cape buffalo, rhino and jaguar but it was a fun time with the Christians who leave @ the end of this month. The A.p.'s told us to pray for senior couples because the numbers are becoming scarce and for the hearts of the leaders of Namibia to be softened because some missionaries going there were having rough times getting visas. I hope you all enjoyed conference because there were answers to my prayers through the messages that were said. I really liked the all the talks but the one that I like the most was by Deiter F Uchtdorf "the story of the light bulb" and how he talks about what he enjoys in life and how he relates it to the gospel. I thought he did a fabulous job and like I say I enjoyed every minute of it. Thanks for all the messages every week, They help me get through the week; it sounds like a lot is going on. I would of sent some pictures of this last week but I left the usb cord with Elder Marshall.
I love you all and have a good week.
Elder Tyler Hansen
It sounds like everything is going well and the conference was great. It was also great here too, we watched all the sessions except the Sunday afternoon session. On Saturday @ 6 we watched the Saturday morning session live and then on Sunday we watched the 3 sessions @ 11 we watched the priesthood session, @ 3 we watched the Saturday evening session by satellite broadcast which had some minor difficulty but was quickly fixed and then, @ 6 we watched the Sunday morning session so it was like Christmas for us. Now that conference is over I just look forward to the next conference in six months. This week was a long week though with it being transfer week. With me and Elder Marshall requesting to stay together another transfer I knew that President Probst was going to move us. I really enjoyed the first area that I was in and had a bond with a lot of the members there and on Thursday I had to say my goodbyes to as many people as I could before I had to leave which was difficult. I really learned a lot from Elder Marshall and hope by the end of my mission I can be where he is at. He knows how to interact and show the charity that he has to others I truly learned a lot from him but I got to move on. I am now in Mdantsane with Elder Smith who is from England he has been out for about 20 months now and he is extremely smart. He also likes star wars and harry potter and just one of the random facts that he shared with me is there are 15 thousand and one guns on the death star in star wars in the 4th episode so ya he likes his star wars. I really enjoy being around him and he has a lot of knowledge and wisdom that I can learn from especially some of the deep doctrine that he likes to share with me. In Mdantsane it is very poor and the people here are in very humbling circumstances with some families even not having a car. The pump shed in our back yard is larger and in better condition than some of their homes. Many of their homes are concrete walls with a tin top and tin door with concrete floors. Their average income is of probably 400 rand (40 dollars) a week and even if that. Many of the streets are dirt road and toilets are just basically a hole in the ground in some areas with a metal shack to cover yourself as you go to the bathroom. The only thing I can relate to back in America is like a trailer park but a little worse. I just don't see how the extremes of rich and poor can be so close together in a society, and work together. It is just a few kilometers inland from Beacon Bay but the missionary work here is a lot different. We wont be able to give very much service at all which I really miss and I will be entirely with the Xhosa people, for the next transfer or so. I will probably learn a little bit of Xhosa. They know how to speak English very fluently but when you speak their language is shows how much you really care about them as a people. Our boarding now is in Cambridge and everyday we stay in our boarding til 12 and then drive out to Mdantsane and the elders with the car drop us off until 9 o'clock that evening. This week will be very interesting meeting some of the new people and especially remembering names that are Xhosa. The game drive was excellent we went there with the Christians (the older couple) and they leave at the end of April, but we were able to see many of the animals there. We seen cheetahs, white lions, zebra, giraffe, coutu, springbok, warthog, iguanas, elephants, ostriches and other stuff but It was the best p day that I have had and I don't think anything else will really top it. When we got there we went to the lodge first and checked in and then went to do the 1 hour elephant interaction afterwhich we went on a 4 hour game drive through the 5000 acre Inquenzie land. The only things that we weren't able to see was the cape buffalo, rhino and jaguar but it was a fun time with the Christians who leave @ the end of this month. The A.p.'s told us to pray for senior couples because the numbers are becoming scarce and for the hearts of the leaders of Namibia to be softened because some missionaries going there were having rough times getting visas. I hope you all enjoyed conference because there were answers to my prayers through the messages that were said. I really liked the all the talks but the one that I like the most was by Deiter F Uchtdorf "the story of the light bulb" and how he talks about what he enjoys in life and how he relates it to the gospel. I thought he did a fabulous job and like I say I enjoyed every minute of it. Thanks for all the messages every week, They help me get through the week; it sounds like a lot is going on. I would of sent some pictures of this last week but I left the usb cord with Elder Marshall.
I love you all and have a good week.
Elder Tyler Hansen
Monday, April 6, 2009
Regan April 6, 2009
Well this past week has been so amazing. After Finding out that I was going to be a district leader I made every change that I could possibly make to be more exact obedient and be a better example for those whom I am serving.
It has been amazing to see with that bit of dedication and using the enabling power of the atonement to make those changes that so much has come from it. I have been able to see more of the power and strength that I have been given to resist temptation and how much easier it has been to be even more obedient.
This past week we have had some really great companion studies out of preach my gospel. We were studying in recognizing the spirit and did the activity which allows how to better understand where to go, what to do, what to say, how to use the Book of Mormon with those we teach, and also how to better adjust to their needs.
It was amazing to see the power in all of the scriptures and how well it enabled us to have the best planning session for the next week that we have had. His hand is in everything and with putting our hands in his we are drawn to all that he wants and desires for us .
We have had some amazing member present lessons this week and all of those who have received our prayers have been strengthened and they are getting better physically and spiritually.
Wow!!! I don't even know how to express or where to begin on how amazing Conference was. I could of not asked for better direction than what was given. I loved all the talks and will be studying them just as President Monson as Directed us to. I am ready to Ponder the messages that are contained within and apply them into my life with all diligence.
I hope that all of you enjoyed the marvellous talks and received the inspiration that you had been seeking for. I know that I received those things that I have been pondering on for my district and also for all of those we are teaching and will find. There is not greater Message than that of the Restoration. We all need to continue as was directed yesterday to share this gospel to all of those who are around and about us.
Thanks for the letters and the e-mails they are great.
Love You
Elder Regan Hansen
It has been amazing to see with that bit of dedication and using the enabling power of the atonement to make those changes that so much has come from it. I have been able to see more of the power and strength that I have been given to resist temptation and how much easier it has been to be even more obedient.
This past week we have had some really great companion studies out of preach my gospel. We were studying in recognizing the spirit and did the activity which allows how to better understand where to go, what to do, what to say, how to use the Book of Mormon with those we teach, and also how to better adjust to their needs.
It was amazing to see the power in all of the scriptures and how well it enabled us to have the best planning session for the next week that we have had. His hand is in everything and with putting our hands in his we are drawn to all that he wants and desires for us .
We have had some amazing member present lessons this week and all of those who have received our prayers have been strengthened and they are getting better physically and spiritually.
Wow!!! I don't even know how to express or where to begin on how amazing Conference was. I could of not asked for better direction than what was given. I loved all the talks and will be studying them just as President Monson as Directed us to. I am ready to Ponder the messages that are contained within and apply them into my life with all diligence.
I hope that all of you enjoyed the marvellous talks and received the inspiration that you had been seeking for. I know that I received those things that I have been pondering on for my district and also for all of those we are teaching and will find. There is not greater Message than that of the Restoration. We all need to continue as was directed yesterday to share this gospel to all of those who are around and about us.
Thanks for the letters and the e-mails they are great.
Love You
Elder Regan Hansen
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
march 31 2009
Hello family,
It sounds like you all had a pretty good week and things are quite well. This week went pretty well we were able to render a lot of service. Right now we are building a game park fence in Brother Billy Vanheardens backyard and it is truly something fun for me to relieve some of the stresses of missionary work. I do get frustrated sometimes because the guy does not know how to build a fence. Something that I am learning with him is complete patience, when he doesn't know what he is doing. This week is transfer week, me and Elder Marshall will see if we stay together another transfer. Here in the next few months our mission is going to see a lot of change. Because the shortage of missionaries in the world our mission will drop down to less than 100 missionaries. When Elder Marshall's group of missionaries leave there will be no incoming missionaries for the next 6 months or next 4 transfers, only departing missionaries. It just simply means that there will be no biking areas and the areas that we are in are going to be huge. Right now the area that we are in is big enough it is probably the size of half of Utah valley. So anyways big changes are happening in the mission in the next six months. Well today will be a short letter but I look forward to general conference and also the game drive that we are going on today with the senior couples. We will be going to Inquenqeze and see the big 5 that they have. Sorry I would write some more but we have to go. Well Have a good week and be sure to write more in your emails they're looking a little skimpy. love you all
Elder Tyler Hansen
It sounds like you all had a pretty good week and things are quite well. This week went pretty well we were able to render a lot of service. Right now we are building a game park fence in Brother Billy Vanheardens backyard and it is truly something fun for me to relieve some of the stresses of missionary work. I do get frustrated sometimes because the guy does not know how to build a fence. Something that I am learning with him is complete patience, when he doesn't know what he is doing. This week is transfer week, me and Elder Marshall will see if we stay together another transfer. Here in the next few months our mission is going to see a lot of change. Because the shortage of missionaries in the world our mission will drop down to less than 100 missionaries. When Elder Marshall's group of missionaries leave there will be no incoming missionaries for the next 6 months or next 4 transfers, only departing missionaries. It just simply means that there will be no biking areas and the areas that we are in are going to be huge. Right now the area that we are in is big enough it is probably the size of half of Utah valley. So anyways big changes are happening in the mission in the next six months. Well today will be a short letter but I look forward to general conference and also the game drive that we are going on today with the senior couples. We will be going to Inquenqeze and see the big 5 that they have. Sorry I would write some more but we have to go. Well Have a good week and be sure to write more in your emails they're looking a little skimpy. love you all
Elder Tyler Hansen
Monday, March 30, 2009
Regan March 30, 2009
Everything has been going really well this past week.
I don't have to much time today because we received a call from a ward member and we have to give a blessing here very shortly. I am grateful for this opportunity that I will be able to exercise the Priesthood power that the Lord has given me the Privilege to hold. I know that it will perform those miracles and help everyone one who desires to receive the blessings from the Priesthood.
This past week it slowed down because of rain, rain, rain... We were still able to find those of who we had planned on and the spirit has been attending so strong at each and every lesson that we have had this week. We taught Jeffrey and Kiera the Restoration this past Wednesday and it had the most strongest spirit our of any other lesson that I have ever been apart of.
We all kneeled down in prayer at the end and the spirit brought me to have such sweet tears for these 2 special children of our Heavenly Father. They have received the knowledge of thy gracious spirit and will continue to learn and progress through his help.
If you could keep Sister Parson's in your prayers that would be great. There was some complication after a surgery that she had and it would be great for her and her family to be in our prayers.
Thank you for all of the love and support you show to me and for the love the Savior gives to me from all of you.
Love You
Elder Regan Hansen
I don't have to much time today because we received a call from a ward member and we have to give a blessing here very shortly. I am grateful for this opportunity that I will be able to exercise the Priesthood power that the Lord has given me the Privilege to hold. I know that it will perform those miracles and help everyone one who desires to receive the blessings from the Priesthood.
This past week it slowed down because of rain, rain, rain... We were still able to find those of who we had planned on and the spirit has been attending so strong at each and every lesson that we have had this week. We taught Jeffrey and Kiera the Restoration this past Wednesday and it had the most strongest spirit our of any other lesson that I have ever been apart of.
We all kneeled down in prayer at the end and the spirit brought me to have such sweet tears for these 2 special children of our Heavenly Father. They have received the knowledge of thy gracious spirit and will continue to learn and progress through his help.
If you could keep Sister Parson's in your prayers that would be great. There was some complication after a surgery that she had and it would be great for her and her family to be in our prayers.
Thank you for all of the love and support you show to me and for the love the Savior gives to me from all of you.
Love You
Elder Regan Hansen
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
march 24 2009
well hello family,
It is good to here from you and all the new changes that are happening. Dad I hope all is well with your back you will have to tell me what your new job is. It is good that you guys were able to experience the witness of an Apostle and feel of Elder Jefferey R. Hollands spirit. He sends a powerful message and I truly look forward to conference in the next couple of weeks, they mean a lot more on a mission than back at home. I hope that I can be able to hear something that will help benefit me and also the investigators that we invite to come. This week we were able to go out to the town of Butterworth which is a very dirty town but once you get into the outskirts/farmlands they show some pride in there town. I will show you some pictures of the town, I don't have any inside the town but some of the outskirts. We only go out to Butterworth once or twice every transfer which is every six weeks and meet with the Bakitcha family. We really didn't get to teach anyone out there but gave Tata Bakitcha a blessing since his foot was swollen. Butterworth is about an hour and a half away from Beacon Bay but the bishop likes us to go out there to see that all is well with the Bakitchas since they are basically the only members in the whole town. We went fellow shipping with Sepocacula who just received the Aaronic Priesthood and visited some of his family. This transfer is winding to an end, me and my companion requested to President that we stay together another transfer, but we will see what happens. Elder Marshall has a lot of knowledge of the gospel and this next transfer will be his last on his mission. We have quite a few progressing investigators now and this next transfer we may have quite a few baptisms depending on there commitments. We were able also to give a lot of service this week with me and my companion putting in about 30 service hours a week which is really good for South Africa and Beacon Bay since the country is accustomed to beggars. Thanks for the emails and if you would please send some pictures of back home since I realized that I came out here with no pictures. It sounds like things are starting to warm up It will be interesting to experience my first winter here in South Africa since the nights now are starting to get a little bit cold which I like. Thank you for the support I pray for you all the time and look forward to a package.
love
Elder Tyler Hansen
It is good to here from you and all the new changes that are happening. Dad I hope all is well with your back you will have to tell me what your new job is. It is good that you guys were able to experience the witness of an Apostle and feel of Elder Jefferey R. Hollands spirit. He sends a powerful message and I truly look forward to conference in the next couple of weeks, they mean a lot more on a mission than back at home. I hope that I can be able to hear something that will help benefit me and also the investigators that we invite to come. This week we were able to go out to the town of Butterworth which is a very dirty town but once you get into the outskirts/farmlands they show some pride in there town. I will show you some pictures of the town, I don't have any inside the town but some of the outskirts. We only go out to Butterworth once or twice every transfer which is every six weeks and meet with the Bakitcha family. We really didn't get to teach anyone out there but gave Tata Bakitcha a blessing since his foot was swollen. Butterworth is about an hour and a half away from Beacon Bay but the bishop likes us to go out there to see that all is well with the Bakitchas since they are basically the only members in the whole town. We went fellow shipping with Sepocacula who just received the Aaronic Priesthood and visited some of his family. This transfer is winding to an end, me and my companion requested to President that we stay together another transfer, but we will see what happens. Elder Marshall has a lot of knowledge of the gospel and this next transfer will be his last on his mission. We have quite a few progressing investigators now and this next transfer we may have quite a few baptisms depending on there commitments. We were able also to give a lot of service this week with me and my companion putting in about 30 service hours a week which is really good for South Africa and Beacon Bay since the country is accustomed to beggars. Thanks for the emails and if you would please send some pictures of back home since I realized that I came out here with no pictures. It sounds like things are starting to warm up It will be interesting to experience my first winter here in South Africa since the nights now are starting to get a little bit cold which I like. Thank you for the support I pray for you all the time and look forward to a package.
love
Elder Tyler Hansen
Monday, March 23, 2009
Regan March 23, 2009
I hope all is well and the snow should soon be fading away quickly. It has started to warm up here and has been quite consistent at about 75 degrees now. The Humidity has not picked up a ton yet but it will be very soon so I'm not to excited about it.
This past week had its up and downs but all and all it was good. On Tuesday we went to visit all the new move-ins south of the Highway. We were able to leave cards with them but many of them were not available at the time. We looked at the end of the day and we bike 17 miles.
On Wednesday we basically did the same thing but in the north part our area. We were able to talk with a couple of Move ins and visited some member as we were out and about. We traveled 20 miles and I felt so exhausted that I slept really well.
Thursday we planned so we got a bit of a break from riding but by the end of the day we were playing basketball with the sisters, investigators, and members that join us in some fun.
We traveled a lot today because we had a lot of referrals but we did not see much come from those things. I have learned this week on how to have Patient perseverance.
I was thinking that this week had almost been bombed because we had not found any new "gators." On Saturday we decided that we would go out and tract an area with a ton of townhouses. We found 3 new investigators and found many more potential that we were not able to set appointments up with.
I have been able to see that having patience and persevering through hard times that seem as if you are not accomplishing anything are truly a blessing. It allowed me to understand better how we need to be dependent on our Heavenly Father. Through the great gift of the Holy Spirit we are able to receive a greater hope and hope for those things of the future. With Hope we can always be prepared for out destiny but we will never fully comprehend how great it will be as we enjoy the Fullness of times with our Father and Saviour.
Love You
Elder Regan Hansen
This past week had its up and downs but all and all it was good. On Tuesday we went to visit all the new move-ins south of the Highway. We were able to leave cards with them but many of them were not available at the time. We looked at the end of the day and we bike 17 miles.
On Wednesday we basically did the same thing but in the north part our area. We were able to talk with a couple of Move ins and visited some member as we were out and about. We traveled 20 miles and I felt so exhausted that I slept really well.
Thursday we planned so we got a bit of a break from riding but by the end of the day we were playing basketball with the sisters, investigators, and members that join us in some fun.
We traveled a lot today because we had a lot of referrals but we did not see much come from those things. I have learned this week on how to have Patient perseverance.
I was thinking that this week had almost been bombed because we had not found any new "gators." On Saturday we decided that we would go out and tract an area with a ton of townhouses. We found 3 new investigators and found many more potential that we were not able to set appointments up with.
I have been able to see that having patience and persevering through hard times that seem as if you are not accomplishing anything are truly a blessing. It allowed me to understand better how we need to be dependent on our Heavenly Father. Through the great gift of the Holy Spirit we are able to receive a greater hope and hope for those things of the future. With Hope we can always be prepared for out destiny but we will never fully comprehend how great it will be as we enjoy the Fullness of times with our Father and Saviour.
Love You
Elder Regan Hansen
Monday, March 16, 2009
march 16 2009
Hello
Hey dad when did you get a new job you never told me? It sounds like everything is going well though. I enjoy my companion he makes everyday an adventure and he is about ready to go home, so he is quite trunky. We had zone workshops and interviews this week, me and my companion made the request to stay together another transfer since this transfer is almost finished. We will see if we stay together but I hope I do because I really like this ward and the people in the area of Gonubie. I love being by the ocean and trackting by the ocean, just makes missionary work a lot more fun. This week was stake conference and we all gathered together in Mdansane Enu 2 chapel. It was a full chapel but it would be great to see another chapel full with all the area of East London and Mdansane. In Cape Town if everyone was active there there would be enough for 9 stakes and probably even a temple there. But there is only one stake in Cape Town as well as one in Port Elizabeth and also East London. There are two branches in the country of Namibia. I look forward to this week and the few people that are progressing especially the Howe family I think the focus in our area would be finding new progressing investigators. We have a lot of investigators but a lot of them are not progressing at all and its more of just a social hour when your with them, rather than us teaching them. The white people that you see in the picture are the Africans people which contains most of our ward. There are also some from Britain and very few from Scotland but the majority are the Africans which is a the language of Dutch and German and they are a harder people to talk to, that will let us into there house I think a lot because of the apartate in 1994 but they are good people. Thanks for the emails each week they help to encourage me, but I love you all.
Elder Tyler Hansen
Regan March 16, 2009
So I was able to see the pictures that Uncle Steve posted from Tyler. I am glad to see the happiness and Joy he is having just like I am in serving the Lord in such a great calling.
This past week has had it's ups and downs but we were still able to accomplish all the things that we desired . We also had Zone Conference this past week and it just continues to inspire us more and more.
We watched a Movie that is on a church DVD called "Ensign to the Nation". It showed those people who had done so much Contribution for the church not only on the continent but for others. One that really stuck out to me was a Brother from Nigeria if I remember right. He had contacted the church after stumbling across a pamphlet in his home. He received a Book of Mormon but they told him that there were no missionaries in the Continent of Africa.
He taught many of his friends and Families of the is new found truth that he had the opportunity to envelop himself in. He was patient and went through almost 15 years of Long-suffering before the first missionaries. After his pleading prayers and dedicated service to the Lord he was able to be further blessed by the Gospel and receive the ordinances that he desired so much to have.
I have personally applied in my life to have much supplication with the Lord through prayer. I have begun more recently to always rely on the Spirit in my prayers. I have noticed that those blessing's that the Lord desires to bless me with have come more abundantly because of my willingness to rely on the spirit as I Pray.
I spent a bit of time this week on my knees with the lord pleading for direction on how we should help our Investigators achieve their full potential while learning the gospel. With every opportunity I had to supplicate I received such strong feelings of peace and guidance to better myself as a missionary with my own commitments and also those with our Investigators.
I know that the Power Of Prayer with the Guidance of the Holy Ghost can open many new doors for personal revelation and blessings that will continually grant us with peace, joy, goodness, and other fruits of the spirit that enable us to be guided.
Thanks for the support and the great emails.
Love You
Elder Regan Hansen
This past week has had it's ups and downs but we were still able to accomplish all the things that we desired . We also had Zone Conference this past week and it just continues to inspire us more and more.
We watched a Movie that is on a church DVD called "Ensign to the Nation". It showed those people who had done so much Contribution for the church not only on the continent but for others. One that really stuck out to me was a Brother from Nigeria if I remember right. He had contacted the church after stumbling across a pamphlet in his home. He received a Book of Mormon but they told him that there were no missionaries in the Continent of Africa.
He taught many of his friends and Families of the is new found truth that he had the opportunity to envelop himself in. He was patient and went through almost 15 years of Long-suffering before the first missionaries. After his pleading prayers and dedicated service to the Lord he was able to be further blessed by the Gospel and receive the ordinances that he desired so much to have.
I have personally applied in my life to have much supplication with the Lord through prayer. I have begun more recently to always rely on the Spirit in my prayers. I have noticed that those blessing's that the Lord desires to bless me with have come more abundantly because of my willingness to rely on the spirit as I Pray.
I spent a bit of time this week on my knees with the lord pleading for direction on how we should help our Investigators achieve their full potential while learning the gospel. With every opportunity I had to supplicate I received such strong feelings of peace and guidance to better myself as a missionary with my own commitments and also those with our Investigators.
I know that the Power Of Prayer with the Guidance of the Holy Ghost can open many new doors for personal revelation and blessings that will continually grant us with peace, joy, goodness, and other fruits of the spirit that enable us to be guided.
Thanks for the support and the great emails.
Love You
Elder Regan Hansen
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Regan March 14, 2009
Elder Mortensen and Elder Hansen Looks like they are ready to rumble as the Sons of Heleman
Looks like a nice Place For a Vacation Next year.
We received a package from Elder Regan Hansen today, It had Old letters and Stuff from the Last 6 months of his mission that he felt that he no longer wanted to carry around. We received a disk of Pictures so I will post a few of them here so we can all share.
Paul Hansen
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Regan March 9, 2009
Well this week has been great.
I found out on Tuesday night that a little girl in the ward was being baptized on Saturday and she wanted me to baptize her. She is in a part member family and we are hoping to work with them and bring their family closer together.
We did not have the Opportunity to teach Misty this week. She has been in Gainesville and the Hospital because of the tumor that she has in her liver. I have prayed that she will be blessed and overcome this trial and I have only had peace in my heart.
We talked with Jeffrey and Kiera this week. After their vacation we were finally able to set up a time to talk with them. I found out that Jeffrey was excommunicated 13 years ago but wants to come back. His girlfriend Kiera has heard a lot about the church from him and has been begging him to reach us for the past few months. She was really excited to read the Book of Mormon. We will be teaching them tomorrow.
We received a lot of referrals this week from Salt Lake and we were able to deliver all of them very quickly. We set up an appointment with one of them but she wasn't there. We stopped and talked to a few people that were around her complex and found Stephan. He is a really cool guy and is interested in what we have offered him.
We taught Suzin this week. We taught her The plan of Salvation and it went real well. At the end of the lesson we kneeled down in prayer to show her how to pray. She was a little bit reluctant but she said she would pray after we left. I felt the need to commit her to baptism and she said yes. We are shooting for March 28. She wasn't able to attend church yesterday so we are hoping to have it then. If you could Keep her in your prayers that would be great.
The spirit has been so strong since the baptism. I felt such love from our Saviour after I had performed the ordinance. She was so happy after and it just made me so joyful. I know that with the work that we are doing at this time that we can all feel the joy and satisfaction as we invite all our friends and families to come unto Christ.
Thank you and I love all of You
Elder Regan Hansen
I found out on Tuesday night that a little girl in the ward was being baptized on Saturday and she wanted me to baptize her. She is in a part member family and we are hoping to work with them and bring their family closer together.
We did not have the Opportunity to teach Misty this week. She has been in Gainesville and the Hospital because of the tumor that she has in her liver. I have prayed that she will be blessed and overcome this trial and I have only had peace in my heart.
We talked with Jeffrey and Kiera this week. After their vacation we were finally able to set up a time to talk with them. I found out that Jeffrey was excommunicated 13 years ago but wants to come back. His girlfriend Kiera has heard a lot about the church from him and has been begging him to reach us for the past few months. She was really excited to read the Book of Mormon. We will be teaching them tomorrow.
We received a lot of referrals this week from Salt Lake and we were able to deliver all of them very quickly. We set up an appointment with one of them but she wasn't there. We stopped and talked to a few people that were around her complex and found Stephan. He is a really cool guy and is interested in what we have offered him.
We taught Suzin this week. We taught her The plan of Salvation and it went real well. At the end of the lesson we kneeled down in prayer to show her how to pray. She was a little bit reluctant but she said she would pray after we left. I felt the need to commit her to baptism and she said yes. We are shooting for March 28. She wasn't able to attend church yesterday so we are hoping to have it then. If you could Keep her in your prayers that would be great.
The spirit has been so strong since the baptism. I felt such love from our Saviour after I had performed the ordinance. She was so happy after and it just made me so joyful. I know that with the work that we are doing at this time that we can all feel the joy and satisfaction as we invite all our friends and families to come unto Christ.
Thank you and I love all of You
Elder Regan Hansen
Monday, March 9, 2009
March 9, 2009
Dear Family
It sounds neat that Elder Holland is speaking in Stake conference he is a very bold and powerful speaker. I enjoy the spirit that he brings from listening to him especially on a mission. Listening to the prophets on a mission is somehow more meaning to me. This last week though was a great week, we were able to get in contact with Elray Duplaci who is always gone on business in Joburg. We have an appointment with her tonight at 7 and she says she just has some questions about the Book of Mormon to clarify with her. She kind of wears the pants in the family so if she gains that personal testimony for herself it will make a big influence on her husband and her family. I am really excited for the next couple of transfers the way it is looking now we are going to have 2 or more baptisms depending on if our progressing investigators keep to there commitments. Since Elder Marshall has just one transfer left we are going to make a request that we stay in the area for another transfer in which I really hope happens. I really enjoy the ward and the members we have a lot of support from the members even though our area is so spread across the valley. This week we also met with the Howe family another one of our progressing investigators who lives out in sunrise on sea a very beautiful African village. I don't think the area has had a lot of missionaries out there before so there is a lot of potential especially from the people that we have met with. Val Howe is an about 70 or so and he is an electrician for the casinos here is East London but with his latest heart problems he is really more interested in the message that we share and he was saying how he is kind of lost in the wilderness right now. They go to the Lutheran church but I think they don't really know why they go like it says in the bible they search for the truth but they know not where to find it. So that is the boat that they are in. Hettie Howe is the sweetest lady and she will do anything for anyone at anytime. She is mainly the one who we converse with but they both have a deep interest in genealogy work so we are planning to give them a lesson on family history work. This family I am greatly excited for ,They had missionaries visit them before and they didn't take the message really into heart. Since we met with Valentine and the complications that they are having, the gospel is sparking a deeper interest in their lives. They love to tell us about their grandparents, parents, great grandparents and if they know what we know it will bring a miracle to them and their family. It sounds like things are warming up back home, I am not excited for this winter because is starting to get darker now in East London in the mornings and in the evenings. It gets light at about 7 and gets dark at about 5. Then again I enjoy the cooler temperatures. Have a good week, I love you very much. Track ting this week here we go.
Elder Tyler Hansen
Monday, March 2, 2009
Regan March 2, 2009
Hey everybody I hope that your past week has been filled with the Love and Joy that our Saviour has for you.
This past week has been full of Miracles, as was last week. Those who we found have heard our message and have continued to want to hear more about it. I have been able to see how these families and individuals have been blessed through their diligence in following the commitments that we have asked them to Keep.
I am grateful to see that progress because it helps me understand that if they continue like they are they will be able to attend the temple before I leave.
We have found 4 new investigators this past week and the work has been phenomenal. We have been talking to a part member family and we will be teaching the Husband tomorrow about the temple and the blessing that come for attending. We are hoping through this that he will want to be baptized and continue to work towards with his family to be sealed together for time and all eternity.
We called Jeffrey on Thursday and will be teaching him on Wednesday with his girlfriend. He is from SLC and really has a desire to learn. We also decided that riding our bikes in the rain would bring us some fruit if we were diligent in what we had planned. We delivered a Book of Mormon to Dianne and will be teaching her about it on Wednesday.
Misty has been progressing real well but we recently found out that she has a tumor in her liver and has to go to a Hospital in Jacksonville. We have been able to comfort her with the message that we have and she expresses how great she feels the spirit as we come and testify of truth to her. If you could keep her in your prayers that would be awesome.
With my fast that I had yesterday I was blessed with a better understanding of patience and the strength that is within it boundaries. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to strive to continue my progress of obtaining more fully the Christ Like Attributes that will make me out to be a better disciple of our Saviour.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf gave a great talk on "Developing Christlike Attributes" and I know that with the direction of his message that it has brought me into a new understanding of how I can better achieve to strengthen myself and to become one in Unity with our Father In Heaven, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost to fulfill the path that he has chosen for me to accomplish.
Love You and thanks for the support
Elder Regan Hansen
This past week has been full of Miracles, as was last week. Those who we found have heard our message and have continued to want to hear more about it. I have been able to see how these families and individuals have been blessed through their diligence in following the commitments that we have asked them to Keep.
I am grateful to see that progress because it helps me understand that if they continue like they are they will be able to attend the temple before I leave.
We have found 4 new investigators this past week and the work has been phenomenal. We have been talking to a part member family and we will be teaching the Husband tomorrow about the temple and the blessing that come for attending. We are hoping through this that he will want to be baptized and continue to work towards with his family to be sealed together for time and all eternity.
We called Jeffrey on Thursday and will be teaching him on Wednesday with his girlfriend. He is from SLC and really has a desire to learn. We also decided that riding our bikes in the rain would bring us some fruit if we were diligent in what we had planned. We delivered a Book of Mormon to Dianne and will be teaching her about it on Wednesday.
Misty has been progressing real well but we recently found out that she has a tumor in her liver and has to go to a Hospital in Jacksonville. We have been able to comfort her with the message that we have and she expresses how great she feels the spirit as we come and testify of truth to her. If you could keep her in your prayers that would be awesome.
With my fast that I had yesterday I was blessed with a better understanding of patience and the strength that is within it boundaries. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to strive to continue my progress of obtaining more fully the Christ Like Attributes that will make me out to be a better disciple of our Saviour.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf gave a great talk on "Developing Christlike Attributes" and I know that with the direction of his message that it has brought me into a new understanding of how I can better achieve to strengthen myself and to become one in Unity with our Father In Heaven, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost to fulfill the path that he has chosen for me to accomplish.
Love You and thanks for the support
Elder Regan Hansen
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