First off, Socorro had her baptism and confirmation this weekend. It was beautiful! You could just see the peace and joy radiating for her. She is such a light and everyone has just embraced her (which is not hard to do).
We also had a regional conference this weekend for the northwestern region (Northern California, Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia). It was really good. The speakers where Elder C. Scott Grow, Sister Bonnie L. Oscarson, Elder James J. Hamula, and Elder Dale G. Renlund. All of the talks were so good.
Elder Grow talked about "Patterns of Faith, Staying True". He talked about how the patterns of faith are reading the scriptures, praying, and going to church. Those things they teach us about from primary. He went in depth though with each one of them and how each should be more than just a surface level going through the motions type of thing. He counseled us to study gospel doctrines every day, and suggested using the index in the triple combination to do so. He said that this will help us focus on the doctrine of the Book of Mormon, and understand it in a deeper level. With prayer he talked about how if we want revelation our studies should always be combined with prayer. He then talked about church and the Sacrament and how preparing for and partaking of the Sacrament will help us to stay true.
Sister Oscarson talked about "Being a True Disciple of Jesus Christ". The thing that stuck out to me the most from her talk was a question she asked. She asked us if we were to spend a couple of hours around some non-members would our actions and words define us as being a true follower of Jesus Christ, or would they be able to collect sufficient evidence to condemn us. That got me thinking about what would happen for me, and what changes I need to make accordingly.
Elder Hamula talked about "Don't Fear, Only Believe". He talked about how we should keep our sights fixed on the Savior, trust in his Atonement, and then trust in and support the leaders he has called to guide us.
Elder Dale G. Rendlund talked about responding to gospel questions. He told a story about he and his wife when they were on vacation and received some tough gospel questions. He said that while he was pondering a good response his wife chimed in and said, "Well it all started with a 14 year old boy that had a question..." and explained the restoration. She then turned to Elder Rendlund and said "my husband will explain more". Then he explained the doctrine within the context of revelation and the plan of God. He taught that without the context of revelation and the place within the plan of salvation it is very difficult to respond to doctrinal questions. This is something I am excited to use the next time I get a tough doctrinal question from a non-member!
We have also started teaching some really awesome women. We are being so blessed!
I hope everyone had a wonderful Valentines day and that his next week holds wonderful things. I love you all!
Love,
Hermana Carpenter
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