How was Christmas for everyone? Dont have too much time, but next week we will be emailing from our normal place so no worries! Pretty filled week with our big Christmas conference where every single missionary was there in the chapel, some 180+ i think , just sharing lots of pictures from all over the year, also had lunch and LOTS of presents and gifts for us all. As well, each zone put on a skit for everyone to see, and we chose to do "what if angels were late" super funny and made everyone laugh. But all in all just lots of good fun. I was one of the angels, amongst those others who were angels with me, were just "kickin it in heaven playing cards" ill try to get the video somehow for everyone to see but in the meantime, I say to everyone the same things I am teaching people here about Christ and His gospel.
We in our lives have a purpose, to return to live with Heavenly Father and our families for eternity. The sacrifice that Jesus Christ gave for us ensured that we would live again after we die. In order, however to receive all that the Father has and live with Him again, we must follow the gospel, or that perfect path through Christ to Him. There is only one way back. He has given us that way because of His goodness and grace. Will we do all that we need to to receive this reward, or will we take our probationary time here on earth for granted? Let us follow diligently and lovingly follow the Savior and His way. In whatever trouble we have in our lives we can receive all the help from Jesus because He loves us that much. Let us pray fervently every day, read the scriptures that so many have given lives for which are "profit and learning", and we must go to church every Sunday to renew those convenants and promises we make with our Father in Heaven. We cannot afford to slip. Most of all, let us always stand in defense of the eternal truths of God, right against wrong, never-changing nor bending from eternity to eternity.. The commandments are there to save us. Follow them to be safe from that potential spiritual death that will rob us of those precious gifts that Heavenly Father wants to give us. I rejoice and am so thankful for the love the Savior has for me, that I have 2 years to represent him teaching these things to those that want to hear. This same love is there for you all always. I am sad for those that choose not to listen and desire that change of their hearts. Heaven sheds its tears over those not desirous to receive eternal happiness. "Obedience Brings Victory..And Victory..is Life." -Jem'Hadar
I love this quote. Couldnt be more simple or easy to understand. Until next week!
Josh and I along with their mom and Alan were delighted to see and speak with Brandon and Natalie on Christmas Day. The picture is of a post that their mother posted on Facebook.
Not too long of a letter today, just getting ready for Christmas. First of 2 of them in the mission. Definitely will be new experience. Christmas time is where we can see others with new eyes. It is why we feel more in the spirit of serving. How grateful I am that we have been asked to serve others. Though most people view it as a chore, because we dont get anything out of it. Where are our hearts when we serve others is the question.
I watched a video yesterday, a commercial rather, from Asia about some insurance company. No, Im not watching TV, this was at a fireside. And I have no idea where it ties in with the company but the message was that this young man gave all things happily to each opportunity to serve, he put a dying plant under running water, helped an old lady with her food cart up the curb, gave his food to a hungry dog, hung some bananas on a neighbors door, gave whatever cash he had to a girl begging for money to go to school. The next day he repeated these activities in his day, some onlookers shaking their heads. I suppose they figure that he wont get anything out of these moments he gives. The following day again, same things. but by the fourth day is the precious one, where the dying plant is now blossoming, He and the old lady are now great friends and he is helping her sell her food, just enjoying himself. The dog has come home with him and loves he new owner, the little girl is missing from her begging spot because he looks and sees her in her school uniform while getting ready to pull out his wallet, and Each time he serves, He is smiling and joyful, as are the others that he serves, though not at first.
Why is it that we serve others and get nothing in return, so to speak. Or why is it that God has commanded us to serve others? The reason why he served with genuine charity is because He is receiving something: he receives emotions, he witnesses happiness, he feels love. Others may be confused at first, but after a while they are changed because he wanted to see them changed, wanted them to feel loved, because he was like the Savior. If we serve all year round, we must doubly do so this time of year. It is also a time for me to contemplate the things God has given me. Oh, how thankful I am that I am permitted to wake up and breathe every morning. This is the mercy of our Heavenly Father that He shows all His children.
Well, I thought I would just share that because it really made me feel good and happy. Service brings happiness. Charity is the pure love of Christ. This is the work of God among us. Christmas is great. \m/ haha I love you all. 11 more days =P
So I know that it has been some time now that I have written about my experiences and time here. The honest truth is just that some other things have been in the way to where I dont feel as joyful or excited to write lately. Dont worry!! I feel great now though! just wearing my santa hat writing you all. We have been having some experiences as a district to unify ourselves and to up our Animo here. Really all in order to help ourselves be more committed to what were doing out here. To most, everyone knows what a missionary is and going on a mission. I feel impressed to tell you that it so, so much more. This is a great test for anyone who decides to serve. You come to know who sent you to serve. You come to realize and treasure who it is that the Lord has asked you to find and rescue from that spiritual darkness or absence. Every single member of the Church is a missionary. It is them who carry that light that is shone forth when they made that promise to God to stand for Him.
Matt 22 36 Master, which is the great commandment in the law?
37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
38 This is the first and greatcommandment.
39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.
Everything we do depends on whether we really love God, and we choose to follow His Son, Jesus Christ in all things, to keep His commandments.
In all our efforts to live each day the best we can to the example of Christ, there are forces that attempt to have us break these commandments that God gives us to have happiness and guidance in our lives. Obviously I have not mentioned all , but just 2 very important ones. I love the Lord, and all He has done for me in my life with my family. By loving the Lord, I want to obey His commandments. They aren't from my church leaders, nor my mission president, nor the apostles or the prophet's (though they ARE revealed to us through them) but they are God's. As I have said before, probably 4 weeks ago, again Im sorry to everyone, they..will..never..change. They are eternal, and it is by and ONLY through Jesus Christ by following His gospel, that we might receive eternal life. I love how it says "might" meaning it is possible, NOT guaranteed. This is the way to come to know our Heavenly Father again, and to be sealed with our families for eternity.
I really do love the mission. For the past couple of weeks I have been contemplating on what my thoughts are about being here. Not about leaving or anything! I just mean reflecting on the time here Ive had so far. The realization that these are souls that dont have the light or complete light for that matter in their lives. Christ calls imperfect people to perform His great work. What an immense amount of trust He places in us, and oh, how much more we must do all we can to Keep His Commandments and Love God in ALL that we do. I know He lives, and that our Father in Heaven will give us all the help we ask for because He loves us. We have a choice always to be happy. It really is a choice from us. And only God can give that happiness to us, for no thing on this earth that has been created by man can do such a thing for eternity, but only the Son of God and His words, our families and the knowledge of the Plan of Salvation are we able to have everlasting happiness.
I love you all and will send pictures next week. A ton too. I forgot my camera cord today. bummer! but I love you all. Follow the Savior! After all, following God and His ways is really the only intelligent thing to do and much easier, rather than fight and be stubborn and miss out on the blessings only He can give. Mucho amor por ustedes!
This week has been difficult on many fronts. Firstly, we had Transfers again! I stayed here in Donna while my other 2 companions have been moved out. We are no longer in a trio, just back to 2 of us. His name is Elder Jensen, we are going to do many good together here in our area, teaching the people here the things of God, and His Gospel for their happiness.
There are so many things that are going through my mind as I write this letter for everyone to read. I will put it simply, Ill allow everyone to arrive and formulate their own thoughts. But I know where I stand. My stance is with Christ in all things. Through Him is where I know I will never be led into darkness. I am a missionary and representative of Him and His Gospel and teachings. As Jesus Christ loves all and every one of us, the example He has set forth for us is very clear. The world is heading further and further into darkness and confusion. The truths and the laws of God are being challenged and attempted to be torn down by he who had opposed God, our Father in Heaven from the very beginning before the world was, when we lived in Heaven as Spirit children.
The family is especially at the center of the target pool, amongst all other things such as sin and leading men away into spiritual darkness and being separated from God. This is the very reason why the world needs Christ. As missionaries, we are teaching that there are 3 things we can do to remain suspended in safety, above all the rest of the world and its attempts. We invite all to Pray every day, pouring our hearts always unto our Heavenly Father the things that we desire to share with Him, things to ask for. I know He will always answer our Prayers, as each one we give is recorded in Heaven. Second, read the Scriptures every single day. What more could we ask for then words directly from God, to help us and guide us and provide us with peace and safety in our hearts. I definitely can attest to this as I havent even been doing this lately as part of my daily morning studies. But the last two days have been really helping me to smile more, and having cheer in my heart. There is power in the Scriptures, primarily the Book of Mormon. I know that the scriptures are true by reason and experience, but I surely know they are by the Spirit of God. The standard works of scriptures provide the eternal knowledge we need to survive in this world.
And last, going to church every Sunday. Jesus Christ gave us His church so that we may be healed, every single week, especially with the Sacrament. It was a gift to us, because our Heavenly Father loves us so much. Let us always be humble and treat the Sabbath day as a delight, filling our hearts with joy. There is revelation we may receive for ourselves, to help us with the things we may be struggling with, or things that cause us to ponder where is the truth.
I know that I have a very literal Father in Heaven, that Jesus Christ is the Son of that God I have aforementioned, I testify that Joseph Smith was a real chosen Prophet of God to bring back the church and the Priesthood of God. I know for myself that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is the true, restored church on the earth again, never to be taken away again, and is the Kingdom of God, where we are His children awaiting the Second Coming of the Savior. That time approaches quickly. Will we be ready? Im still not, but I want to be. It is my prayer that all of you, my friends and family, will be also. I love you all, I thank you for your support, and I shall write next week! =)
It is great to be back on my feet and healthy. The last 4 days I have been having heavy problems with my stomach and intestines, not to mention the 14 hours of sleep I had yesterday trying to let my system be cleared out. Not sure what the deal is but no matter. The important thing is that this week has been lessons of patience, obedience, and love for all and everything as Christ had, all through our trials and all will be made right. The interesting thing is that when we have our times of challenges, do we endure well? Is there something that we learned from it, or is it a time for wondering why to me and why is it this hard. I just have a testimony that trials will always happen, and it is always to know who God is and to turn to Him in all things, to love Him with all our heart, might, mind, and strength.
Another week goes by, here in the mission for the Lord. Every day is a day to serve Him, in the white field, sorting the wheat from the tares. Helping people to know who their Savior is, to no longer have to walk in darkness by showing them the way we can receive all of our Heavenly Fathers blessings, and the closer we get to Him by following His Son, the Savior, we will receive all that He has one day. I know this. It feels so great and thankful for the truths that as missionaries we teach everyday. BUT, we must want these things for ourselves. In order to feel His love and blessings, we must want them first, and do all the things He asks of us. We must choose Him AND follow Christ. And I do promise that as we do these things along the way, we will see His hand work in our lives, we will come to know the joy He intends for us to have, and that true happiness will help us to carry on with our lives, enjoying well to the end.
Elder Newman
1 District meeting lesson. dressed as Darth Vader
2 We keep finding little kitties to save/return
3 Apartment checks/ the awesome posse
4 some vultures we found 15 flying over us here( we were in the car)
Im sorry that I didnt send a letter last week. And also I dont have much to write about except that we are all safe. I know its been a big worry about the hurricane down in Mexico and here in South Texas. We are all safe. There were lots of floods but its all gone now. By the pics youll see, our main street just turned into a river and people still wanted to get to places but as missionaries, servants, we were ready to help people's cars that got stuck because of them stalling in the water.
Ive often been pondering about the example that Christ gave to us to follow. In many ways, His example and the things He still teaches us today is to be like Him and less like ourselves. Our lives can have so much more clarity about how to be and what to do when we follow Him, Be like Him, Say the things as He says and would say, and how he treated others in all things. Never is there a time where He cursed or hated others, nor treated them as if they deserved something bad when they smote, scourged and killed Him. I mean not even to the ones that Killed Him. Its amazing and a blessing to be a part of and belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, or simply HIS Church, and there is only ONE church belonging to Jesus Christ, that He had established when He lived on this earth. How marvelous and special that I ,being one of many of God's children could be permitted to possess the knowledge that brings so many blessings and peace into our lives. I know he directs His work here on the earth through His chosen servant, Thomas S Monson, to speak and act for Him in all things pertaining to His kingdom on the earth. that He lives today and because He rose from the tomb and conquered death, so shall we. But he came to give His authority to bring so many blessings to people's lives and that authority was taken from the earth for a time but it has returned. I testify of this. Any who question this truth simply only need to ask in humility to our Father in Heaven to know for themselves, just as Joseph Smith once did for himself. But it is truth. I teach these things every day, along with the other 80,000 soldiers of the Lord's army. He lives, and we will all see Him one day. Let us prepare ourselves in this life to look upon His glory with excitement that we will be confident to see and thank Him with all our hearts.
Im sorry that I did not write or send pictures last week. I honestly dont have a reason but nevertheless, I hope you all can forgive me.
These last two weeks have been interesting, a little difficult, but always, really fun. We received a new companion 2 weeks ago called Elder Cummings. Yep! Mobbing around in a trio! In addition, a new area opened up in the English ward, meaning we received 2 MoRE Elders in our house. So last transfer went from just us 2 to 55 in our apartment! Of course it is still Blackman and myself, but with new friends, all working our best and hardest to bring everyone who is ready and humble to come unto Our Savior as we serve Him.
Well, much good news. Remember the Flores family that we have been teaching and the kids that got baptized? Well, last Sunday in between General conference sessions people from the ward got together to the wedding party and marriage of Alma and Sergio Flores. Pasoli and Tostadas for days! Then after the last session of conference, Alma, the mom got baptized as well! Yay for the fruit of patience and diligence to have faith that all will work in the Lords timing.
The Conference was amazing, much moreso than the previous ones. Yes, the Lord having called and chosen new Apostles to testify of Him always, as well as getting to hear from the chosen mouthpiece of the Lord to direct us and give us the very words that we need to hear to know what to do and how to keep moving forward. I have no doubt that Jesus Christ directs His church here on the earth. Vamos a seguirle. Es muy facil y muchas bendiciones puede y va a venir cuando leemos las Escrituras, y orar cada dia, muchos tiempos y tambien, vamos a venir a la Iglesia cada domingo para recibir perdon con La Santa Cena y renovar nuestros covenios bautismales. Es muy facil para seguir el Senor en contra de siguiendo nuestro propio camino. MUY FACIL! haha
I love you all and I miss you all every day. But, the Lord comes first always. He must be first in our lives. He promises us all His blessings, and because He is our God and Father in Heaven, he cant lie, right? I know this church is the truth on the earth, the Book of Mormon is true as well and all will be made right in our lives through Him. I know it. I know it. Until next week!
Brandon sends his love. He promises a good letter next week. He did say the following to me -
"i feel so renewed. everything is always answered in conference. They really are all called by God. chosen to lead us. some of the most amazing talks and just goes to show that because the world is getting worse, the counsel is ever so important to hold fast to and apply. Im great crazy week those kids we baptized we were able to have the mom and dad get married so that she could be baptized too so that was just yesterday I love how the gospel is so simple to understand and so easy to follow IF we only want to be happy and want to return to Him. Ive been studying more about what will happen in the future or what will happen during certain times and been having fun trying to imagine the second coming and all that will take place during this time to all the people on the earth. No idea how it will but reminds me of the need to be here to help others to know why it is important to learn these things.....
Until next week.
This week has been awesome. Then again, they all are. It has become the normal day of life here, serving in the work of the Lord.
So this last week was transfers. I am staying with my Compy, Elder Blackman. But we recieved 3 new greenies in our area which means 3 trainers new to the area. our of 8 of us previously, half left and recieved 6 missionaries new to the area. New elders, new future friends, and more help to search for the lost sheep that Christ wants us to find, help, and return unto Him. The mission becomes life, living with roomates, who then become friends and it is now understood why we are called companions. We help, uplift, and teach in unity and both have one mind in living and sharing the gospel.
I am so pumped for General Conference this weekend, being able to hear from the chosen and called prophet of God and His apostles. Conference is the privilege and opportunity to listen and learn and be edified on how we need to walk through life. We have hard times, yes? The answers come from our Father in Heaven through His called servants to us, His literal spirit children.
I dont have much time left but yesterday we confirmed the 3 Flores kids into the church and they all received the Gift of the Holy Ghost. What a wonderful thing to have here in this terrible world. Someone to tell you the right way to go to find real happiness. But first we must always not only be worthy of it, but have the desire to need that help. And He will give it to us, but we need to listen. Listen and pray to ask.
I love you all and miss you of course. But vamos a continuar en esta vida y venir mas cerca de Cristo en nuestras vidas diariamente. Podemos a sentir y recibir su amor si le pedimos.
First things first, as are the things of the Gospel. Whoohoo We had some baptisms yesterday for 3 of the kids from La Familia Flores. So we met and found this family on the 13th of August and have been teaching them 2wice a week. And with time, they really missed us coming over when we didnt go that day so it was great when they would receive us again with our set visits to them. But we helped Antonia, Wendy and Sergio (Jr we called him) come unto the Savior and its just impossible not to feel love for them all along their journey, or any of our journeys here. Their mom, Alma, also wants to and with time the rest of the family wants to but we need to help them get married first. All things are Always done in the Lord's time.
So, here in the TMM(Texas McAllen Mission) or in any mission, there is a culture among the missionaries that is in the field that is never talked or taught about outside of it because it is unknown, at least it was to me. But everyone here is always so pumped and happy and in good spirits and loves one another always. Now I can see how it is that friendships that last forever are made here too. All the missionaries, because of the frequent changes, know one another so well. It is great to be here and never a bad decision to serve. Im so glad and happy I came here. Nothing, nothing is more important than this work for our preparation to meet God and our salvation. And we WILL always have help in our lives if we place our Heavenly Father first in our lives.
Here in TMM, there is an event done every once in a while among the missionaries called 'going digging' What this is is going to bodegas, which are huge warehouses filled with clothes, piles everywhere and there are numerous bodegas here to come and buy clothes. My guess is that they are clothes tossed by people or from companies who couldnt sell them and bring them here where they will be sold into mexico but we come here to 'dig' for ties and missionaries LOVE ties. Knowing which ones are high name brands and how pretty they are and others that can be sold for lots of money upon going home. one of the pics last week was the result of my first one. Some missionaries collect over 100 pounds in their whole 2 years here. Its nuts. Tie capital indeed.
The members here have begun calling me Elder Guatemaltecho. haha its awesome to be here among the humble members. It basically means Guatemalan. Shouts to my momma, I love her so much. Also because of the transition of seasons in south Texas, there are major crazy hard rainstorms. And that flooding is normal here. Dont know why but it is super fun having rain days. No missionary here hates them, especially when being on a bike day, the storms are prayed for.
Love everything here, the Gospel is the truth on the earth, and blessed are all the creations of Heavenly Father. Jesus Christ is His Son who came to the earth to bring His gospel and to save us from our sins, and has given us that chance to come unto Him, To be perfected in Him as we are here on the earth preparing to meet our Father and God. And we will live with Him forever with our families.
Hello everyone!! Im sorry I don't have a letter prepared yet, it is in my drafts, ran out of time but I will have the letter next week im sorry all but I did owe you all lots of pictures so I hope you enjoy them mission is going well and I love it here gospel is true and Christ is my Savior and I know that he is your Savior, each and every one. His gospel can and will bless your lives.
No word from Brandon yesterday due to the Holiday but today (the 8th) he sends his love. Only had time for a quick hello to his parents and the mission president. Until next week.......
This week has been super awesome! I know I have been saying that but this time I wish to share with you an experience with one of our teaching visits we had with an awesome family. They are this way because of their sincere interest to know a little more about the origins of the Church and why there are so many in the land. Bingo, Impossible to hold back the opportunity to share and teach and testify.
We were able to help them understand questions about Joseph Smith and the reason for many churches and the real validity of the Book of Mormon. I should mention that at this time we were on an exchange so I had one of the Zone Leaders as my companion just for that day. But I feel that it was inspired to have an exchange right now because of how strong the spirit was in our testifying of the truth of this church. This is why we always invite others and everyone we know and meet to read the Book of Mormon to ask for themselves the questions of their hearts about Joseph Smith and the book. Again, if you have not read it, Please, I really ask and near beg you, just open it and see what it has to offer you. I KNOW with everything that I am that it has nothing but truth contained in its pages, something that the world is losing and sorely needs. It will strengthen or begin to grow your testimony and all one needs is a "particle" of faith. To all that read this letter, I ask you to test the message and realize the divinity of our Savior. If you are having a hard day and have read it before, READ AGAIN! No wicked man could write this book, neither could any good man write it, save it be by the power of God and to preserve the teachings of the prophets from this continent in ancient times that they spent their lives writing for us today, this day, to know what to do and who Christ is. This morning I was reading about Alma, the younger, and how he use to be someone in open rebellion against God, our literal Father in Heaven, and tried to destroy the good and people and their faith.
After a sincere change of heart by a visitation from an angel, and experiencing how he was "racked with torment, harrowed up by the memory of my many sins" He cries in is heart unto Christ if he would have mercy , being in the "gall of biterness" With his sincere desire to change, "I could remember my pains no more; yea I was harrowed up in the memory of my sins nore more.
And oh, what joy and what marvelous light I did behold; yea my soul was filled with joy as exceeding as was my pain!"
How can we not feel joyful if this could happen to him, then we can also do the same, and feel real joyful forgiveness and try again to do better every day with repentance. This is why Jesus Christ came to this earth. To completely give up what He wanted, save it be to want to suffer in place of us, and do exactly what His Father wanted and sent Him to do, to give us that second chance to come unto Him and to never hunger or thirst for peace or love or joy or forgiveness. I know that my soul is joyful in knowing this and trying to live the best I can in His example to one day thank Him in person face to face bowing before Him and owing everything I have been given and do to my Savior. I know I will live again, as will my family and everyone on this earth, because He lives!
I miss you all and Ill see you in 22 months ! Woot! Just around the corner.
Elder Newman
I know Im not good with taking pictures but I will try harder to post more.
I am sorry ahead of time that this weeks letter is a little short again but I promise a lengthy letter next monday. I give my word on it. BUT I do encourage you to go to the blog that my dad has set up to see all previous letters and pictures. So thankful for that support and love he gives. brandnewmissionary.blogspot.com
This week has been very crazy, the first 3 days I needed to go with another companionship because of 3 day training that is for all the District and Zone leaders and my companion is our District Leader, so I was able to go into a trio and all on the bike. Very fun, lots of work, and experiencing teaching with other elders. Once back with my bestie, the work is just more finding, beginning to contact new people to find and meeting more of the members in the Spanish ward. Many meal appointments which gave me more opportunity to use and practice my spanish and also to meet the members besides just on Sunday.
As a missionary, I know that this is where I need to be. Haven't seen why yet, but simply because the Lord has called me here and somewhere He will speak through His called servants to those that are ready to learn of the restored gospel and to come unto Jesus Christ, I know that He needs me here.
I love being here and always learning something new every day. The Lord always teaches us line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little. This is true. But with faith in Him, I know we can come to know all things.
Phew!! Finally made it to McAllen last Monday It has been 10 days since I last wrote to you all but now it will be on Mondays just like every other missionary. First day we met the mission president and wow, he is truly one who has been called of God to lead missionaries in the work of the Lord. Coming from Chile, his spanish is super clear and crisp, it was awesome to meet him. My first companion's name is Elder Blackman and he and all the elders in our district are super funny and all hardworking but also lighthearted and very loving of each other and jokesters with each other when the time is appropriate of course.
We have been working in an area called Donna, TX that was previously closed but now has been reopened and so we only have a few records to go off of to figure out and learn who everyone is and such but we are trying hard. We have begun already teaching people about the gospel and the work is progressing. Maybe slow but still going.
So this mission is one of the few in the world where we are required to be bilingual so there is both English and Spanish teaching and speaking so whoohoo! But dont worry, always ready for Spanish first.
We have already met so many people here accepting us to initially teach them but we have faith that we can continue to help them in all things that we can do to serve them. Just to name a few, we have met Cruz and Tania and their family of 6 kids, who have always wondered for example what the difference was between all the churches in the world or even in just this town alone. Bingo, entryway to be able to share with them the truth that we have. What blessings they can receive if we can continue with them!
I must be going but wanted to say to all that I made it here safe and that the work has begun practically right away on my second day here. This is the only time I will say so because it is unecessary to mention but whooooooooo, it is super humid hot here, I thought we werent suppose to go swimming. But literally as soon as one walks outside, you slam into a wall of moisture in the air and my glasses fog up every time=P Love it here, wouldnt want to be anywhere else. TMM esta impresionante!!!
For now here is some information about Brandon's Mission:
DESCRIPTION
The Texas McAllen Mission is on the border of the United States and Mexico. There is a large Spanish population and many Spanish and English speaking missionaries are called to this area. Missionaries called to this area can expect hot, humid summers and mild winters.
Snapshot of the Texas McAllen Mission area – Texas is the second most populous US state and the largest of the “mainland” 48 states. Once an independent republic, Texas became the 28th state in 1845. The mission includes the southern part of Texas and borders Mexico very closely; hence, cultural attitudes are heavily influenced by nearby Mexico, especially because over 75% of the population identifies as Hispanic (of any race). Fun fact: the Texas McAllen Mission is the only “stateside” US mission where all missionaries are called Spanish-speaking!
THE CHURCH
The Church is strong in Texas, with both Spanish- and English-speaking wards proliferating. There are five stakes within the Texas McAllen Mission boundaries. Overall, the Church has an increasing presence throughout the state, with a total Church membership of nearly 315,900 in over 600 congregations and four temples.
FOOD
Missionaries eat a lot of Tex Mex. Those serving in the northern part of the mission can expect a lot of BBQ.
TRANSPORTATION
Depending on the size and location of your area, cars and bicycles will be your mode of transportation. If you are assigned to a bike area, you will want to purchase a bicycle that you can transport with you during your entire mission. It is simple to purchase a bike in the mission, so it is probably easier to wait until you are assigned to a bike area and purchase an adequate bike in the mission field.
SAFETY
The Texas McAllen Mission has been described as “very safe” by former missionaries. Missionaries should use proper bike etiquette when on the roads and ensure that their bikes are locked up securely with a U-lock to avoid bike theft.
LOCAL LINGO
The Valley: “The Valley” is a shortened term for the Rio Grande Valley, which is the area just north of the Rio Grande and the United States/Mexico border. The majority of the mission is located in The Valley including Brownsville, Harlingen, McAllen and many other smaller cities.
Tex Mex: This term refers both to a local dialect—Spanish mixed with English but with a Southern accent—and to the food. Because of the mix between cultures, much of the Spanish food is cooked with Barbecue sauce.
Tie Diving: This term is used locally among missionaries. There are places in the mission called “Ropa Usada” (Used Clothing) where missionaries go “tie diving” and pay by the pound for used ties. This is a favorite preparation day activity for many missionaries, but there are limits to how often missionaries can go tie diving.
ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT
Missionaries will want a bike that will last throughout their mission and a heavy U-lock to avoid bike theft. Former missionaries also recommend carrying a Camelbak or similar pack that carries water while working in the heat.
PROFILE
United States
President Fernando M. Mateluna
200 W La Vista Ave
McAllen TX 78501-2131
United States
English
The McAllen-Mission metro area population is nearly 805,000 (2012 estimate)
Roman Catholic,
Hot and humid in the Valley and Corpus Christi. Hot and dry in Laredo.
McAllen, Corpus Christi, Harlingen, Kingsville, Mission
“Menudo. It is cow stomach soup and a Mexican delicacy.”
-Chase
“Crickets, cow eyes, cow intestines, cow brain and menudo.”
What was most surprising about the culture?
“There is a large number of transient people, many of which are illegal immigrants.”
-Chase
“There is a complete mix of Spanish and English languages in the culture. You will often use both languages combined.”
-Chase
What advice would you give to someone going to this Mission?
“People here are very loving and open. Don’t be afraid to talk to anyone.”
-Chase
What do you wish you had known before you served?
“Humidity is very different from dry heat.”
-Chase
**DID YOU SERVE IN THE TEXAS MCALLEN MISSION? IF SO WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCES HERE OR BY EMAILING US AT EDITOR@MISSIONHOME.COM**
This is the final pday in the CCM. I fly to Texas this coming Monday! WhooHoo! I cant believe it has been six weeks already, but then again it was forever ago since I arrived. I dont remember really getting here. But no matter, we dont and cannot walk backwards. We move onward. good thing too, because Im just itching to do nothing but teach all day. Granted, being here is very necessary, but I am ready, and even then, none of us are really ever ready for anything. but that is the purpose of us being here on the earth, to learn and grow and progress toward our ultimate goal. We may never be ready completely, but we can be always prepared. For a trial, for a test, a great load to be placed, and even for the Second Coming of Christ. We only know how to prepare because of what we learn from past experience. This is the beauty and precious reason why we all chose to come to this earth.
D&C 6:34, 36-37
"Fear not, little flock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you, for if ye are built upon my rock, they cannot prevail.
Look unto me in every thought, doubt not, fear not.
..be faithful, keeping my commandments, and ye shall inherit the kingdom of heaven."
This is true. There will always be an opposition of sorts to all our choices. But if the choice is good, and blessings are promised from God, and we read that it will bless us, then why would we hesitate, and fear the repercussions of something so wonderfully promised? This promise is predicated upon two simple things-Be Faithful, and keep His commandments. Let us press forward against the ever changing things of the world-for the ways of the world will never be the ways of God. If we do these things, we shall always find rest in Christ and His church which has been restored to the earth, but is based in heaven, and has not come from anywhere else.
Next week I shall be writing from Texas finally. Until then!
