HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Hey Everyone!

Happy new year! I really hope that everyone can enjoy a new beginnig. I also hope everyone can do well with their goals this year!

Well, this week went by really well. We had another baptism as well. We baptised a young (20 years old...) single mother, Yosi (Jossi), who was really looking for a way to change her life. She had a huge conversion when she took interest in our message. We've been teaching her family for  a while and they've all taken interest. So we're really hoping to see the rest of the family come unto Christ, following her footsteps. They're just waiting for the dad to get back from a trip so they can all be there in the baptism. But at first, we were teaching the whole family except her, because she "had other things to do." But after she started seeing a change in her family and felt a desire to find something more in her life, she started listening and really grew a desire to do a 180 in her life. So it was amazing to see the change and see the happiness that she's felt through Christ. It's amazing how deeply the Gospel can change a life.

We also have several baptisms set up for the next few weeks, so we're working hard to take care of them. This week, we have another investigator, Adriana (the cousin of Diana), with a baptismal date and an older couple, Lazero and Adelaida. Hopefully everything goes well with them and that Lazero and Adelaida can pass their interviews. But they're quite excited  to learn more and progress, so I imagine all will go well.

Other than that, I ate rabbit intestine with potatoes and grean beans (and rice, of course). That was... not my favorite dish.

I also really enjoyed talking with everyone in the family! It was really nice to hear your voices and see how're you're doing. Even if everything seems to be going normal as always. It's always one of the special moments of the year. The best Christmas gift, of course.
And thanks so much for the package! And for the package from the ward! I got it a couple days ago and really enjoy the candy and cards. It was nice to hear from all the old ward members that I know. And it looks like there are quite a few new people as well.
But I've been enjoying the candy a ton. Life is always a little easier with sugar.

Well, I hope everyone enjoys the new year and has a little fun! I'll be sleeping. One of the few people who'll be well rested for the first day of the new year, haha.
Take care!
Elder Seth Prestwich

Happy End of the World Week!!

Hey Everyone!

Well, life has been going good. This week was good, but our fecha fell through. She has several legal issues with her ex and ran off the Lima to fix it all... Satan is deffinitely messing with the work in this area. But I haven't felt discouraged. I'm certain that the problems with resolve and that she'll be able to come to Christ. 

I've been spending the week trying to refocus my mind and heart in the mission. I've found that my mind has been wandering off lately, so I'm renewing my effort to ponder the needs of my investigators and look for revelation. I've already seen a big difference. Several possible needs of one of our families came to mind one night as I was thinking about them, and when I asked them about it, we were able to find out one of their principle worries. It was amazing how a simple thought lead to great progress in the slavation of an entire family. There's defnitely a difference between working in the mission and working in the mission with all your heart, might, mind, and strength.

We had 13 investigators in church again. We feel super happy about the number of investigator and the growth in the ward. We've been rallying the people to help the less actives, and we've gone from 88-126 people (growing a little every week) in just this month. We're excited to see if we can keep growing in these two more weeks that remain. There were only 50 that were going to church when I got here, so there's an amazing difference when everyone stands up to sing in sacrament meeting. It's super cool to see the growth in such a short time.

Other than that, well, my pensionista killed my poor guinea pig, BoB Marley... He was such a nice, fat friend. But, alas, they're just another animal to eat down here. So I'm trying to recover slowly. Though, I have to admit, I'm excited to eat him for lunch today. ;)

Hope you all enjoy this week! Remember that Friday in the end of the world, so don't forget to repent. There are a lot of people yelling in the streets and handing out pamphlets here. They're all playing off the drama. Some say it'll happen for sure and others not so much. It's pretty funny, to say the least.

Love you all!
Elder Seth Prestwich

Things Are Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas... Kind of...

Hey Everyone!

This week has been great, though filled with ups and downs. But first
of all, Diana was baptised and confirmed despite a ton of difficulties
and obstacles. She really put her faith first to follow the Lord. Her
parents really worked against her baptism. Her mother is really
Catholic and her Dad is from some other Christian church, but both of
them are quite convinced that they're in the true church. But Diana
prayed and asked God to know that this Church is true. And she told
that that God said it was... They didn't like that too much. But
despite their words, Diana took a step of faith and follow the answer
that the Lord gave here. It was wonderful to see her overcome all of
the other obstacles that came her way as well. Her father (who lives
hours away in Lima) got really sick and she almost had to travel with
her mother to Lima just hours before her baptism. But she prayed with
sincerity and her mother, even though she was opposed to her choice to
get baptised, decided to leave that night instead. An incredibe change
of heart just in the moment that Diana needed it. She's going to be a
faithful convert. One who puts her trust in the arm of the Lord.

But during the week, a lot of chalenges came around. I had problems
with my companion, Diana almost had to travel during her baptimal
date, Lourdez didn't pass her interview, I ended up getting quite
sick, and more. But amongst all the rough patches, I found one thing
to stick out. If I had the spirit, everything was alright. I had a
calm assurance that all problems pass by and that my investigators
would be able to pull through the problems that they faced. In those
moments, I really understood, even more, that the Spirit drives this
work, because it drives me farther than I can go. Each day I somehow
find the physical and spiritual strength to do this work. And I
realized even more where that comes from. When I refused to let my
trials take away the Spirit, the days passed and I felt satisfied with
the work that I was doing. Even if it's not perfect, it's what the
Lord is expecting from me. It truly is an invaluable part of this
work, and not just for teaching, but in every aspect.

I can't thank the Lord enough for allowing me to have the Gift of the
Holy Ghost. It truly is one of the greatest gifts that I have in this
life. And one of the few gifts that can keep giving every day. It
truly directs my life to where I want to be. In ways greater than I
can comprehend.

I also learned that when I live with an attitude of gratitude, I have
the Spirit more constantly. It's a lesson I can't forget here in the
mission or in my life afterwards.

I also got to enjoy a deliscious plate of rabbit the other day! I
actually enjoyed that dish, oddly enough.

But I love you all and hope that you're enjoying the Christmas Season!
Don't forget the Lord or the needy!
Elder Seth Prestwich

Welcome, December!

Hey everyone!

Well, we've finally hit the last month of the year.

AND Christmas is coming up! It may not quite be the same as a missionary, but it's still a wonderful time that helps me focus even more on the Savior in my life.

But we've been having a lot of troubles with our investigators. We still have a lot of investigators that are progressing, but they're starting to lose their enthusiasm. But we're determined to help the come to Christ and be ready this month as well. Our baptimal dates might fall through, but we'll be sure not to let them go. Keep them in your prayers, please. We'll be doing a ton to keep the Spirit so we can follow the Lord's direction to help them.

But the week has gone by rather normal other than that. So I don't have much to say. Or much time. But I really hope everyone is well, and you'll all be in my prayers!

Love you all! Keep up a cheerful Christmas Spirit!
Elder Seth Prestwich

Almost... December?

Hey Everyone!

Wow, I can't believe that December is already coming up! It's really comes out of nowhere without Thanksgiving!
But this week went by well. It was SUPER long. A lot happened, but we're ready now to start another exchange here in Huaraz. Elder Fernandez and I will be working hard. We have a lot of possible baptisms this month, so we're looking forward to this month. We're gonna end the year well.

I've really been able to see the tender mercies of the Lord working with us each week as the spirit guides us and our investigators. We've received some great references from the members this week. Some people that are really prepared and sensitive to the Spirit. It'll be really great to work with them and see a conversion in their lives.
We just finished a ward conference and it was really cool to see so many people here. Even in the time that I've been here, there are a lot more members active. We had a less active family do an special number. Two of their kids played their violins really well. They're both really young (14 and 11), but they play in the symphony of Huaraz. Their mom is always making them practice, every time we go there. But they really have a talent and they enjoy performing, so it was really cool to see.

Hope everyone is well and healthy!
Take care and enjoy the end of November!
Elder Seth Prestwich

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Even though there isn't a Thanksgiving here, I'll be quite happy. It'll be a wonderful day to give thanks to God for all the wonderful things I've been given. I'll be looking for those little blessings from God on that day as well. They always come. Every holiday. So I'm not too worried about it. But I'll be working extra hard to bless the lives of others as I reflect on the wonderful gifts that God has given me all my life. Starting with the Gospel and the Atonement of Christ. Two things that I'll never be able to thank God enough for. But I hope you can all enjoy that day with your families and with some wonderful food. But don't forget to say a prayer of thanks that day.

But the work has been going pretty well down here. We had 11 investigators in church again! We had two families come, so we're really excited to work with them. They're both wonderful and we'll do all that we can so they can make it all the way to the Temple. It may be a ways off, but what we do and teach now will allow them to make it there. Other than that, the other baptismal dates are falling. We still have one more, Diana. She's 19 and is working hard to gain a personal testimony, but is quite set on being baptized the first of December. So keep her in your prayers as well!

Oh, and thanks a lot for the package that you sent! I'll be enjoying the candy on Thanksgiving as well. But it's nice to have a few sweets around, and it's fun to see how everyone else enjoys candy from the US. It's nice to share the joy a little.

And I enjoyed the comic strips as well, thanks for those. They really brightened my day.

Take care everyone and enjoy the Holidays!

Elder Seth Prestwich

Baptism of Susan!

Well, Susan was baptized this week! All turned out very well. She was super prepared. She had been going to church in another ward for a few weeks, and was already thinking about getting baptized when we got her referral. But we came to see her and she wanted to know the truth. So we helped her with that. She got excited when we showed her the Book of Mormon and she started to read it right away. It was awesome to hear how she felt when she prayed to know that it's true. She really did all that she could to prepare herself correctly. And the ward really took her in right away. She gave the opening prayer last Sunday, then was confirmed, then was sustained as the YSA Representative for the ward. All in 10 minutes or so. Pretty crazy. But she's ready and feels happy to have the chance to serve as well.

We have another baptismal date for this Saturday. Her name is Susy and she's really excited as well. She's a 15 year old girl whose a national box champion. Pretty crazy. She's never really gone to a church before and didn't know anything about God, so it was interesting to start at block 0 with her, but it's been a humble opportunity to see the Lord change and bless her life as she accepts the Gospel. Pray a lot for her so she can prepare herself this week.

We went to a really cool historical site this week in Chavin. It's one of the oldest ruins here in Peru. But the trip there was several hours, so it was pretty crazy. We all got into a giant Van (20 seater) and went cruising through mountains and cliffs. It was super cool to see all of the (almost) untouched mountains. It was all green. Very different from Trujillo. But I'll have to show everyone a ton of photos when I get back.

Thanks everyone for your support! I'll be praying for everyone!
Elder Seth Prestwich

Update

Hey Everyone!

Well, the Lord has really done miracles in this area. He really is here blessing us and all the people that we teach. We mannaged to have 11 investigators in church this last Sunday (we've normally had 3-4 every week here). And we have two more people preparing for baptism. One this Saturday and the other will be the next. Keep Susan and Susy in your prayers so they can do what they need to so that they will be prepared. But we'll be focusing on the 11 investigators that came to church and helping them a ton. We'll be sure to help them see how great the blessings they'll recieve are.

But it's been an incredible experience to be here. I really know that the message we share with everyone is true. And that it brings the happiness that everyone is looking for, even if they don't realize it. But I see God testifying to me and all that I teach that it's true. I know without a doubt that it's what will bring eternal happiness to anyone who accepts it. And not because I say it or someone else has told me, but because God Himself has told me, and I can't ever deny that. And after sharing my heartfelt testimony of that with an investigator today, I started thinking about it. But I really know that it's true and that I'm happy because if it. And that I'll never leave it or deny it. Not for anything. And I can only thank my Heavenly Father for that knowledge and assurety. But that itself makes me so happy to be here sharing these blessings all day every day. There may be a lot of difficulties here in the mission, but none of them really matter. There is no sacrifice too big to help others come unto Christ so they can  recieve Eternal Life.

But I'm still enjoying the nice green hills and mountians around here. It really puts me at ease as I work to follow Christ and help others do the same.

Love you all!

Elder Seth Prestwich

We baptized Bruce Lee...

We had a baptism that went over quite nicely. It was an old investigator that didn't have permission from his parents. He's a 10 year old kid named Jimmy Bruce Lee de la Cruz Rodriguez. I didn't believe him at first when he said that his name was Bruce Lee, but it is. It was just nerve wracking to have him say that just before the baptism and not being sure, haha. But we worked with his parents and got permission to baptism him. That same day. So we ran all over the area getting things organized, announced, getting the interview done any everything. In the end, we got it all in time to join the baptismal service of the Hermanas at 5:00. But it went over nicely and we're excited to have had the chance to help him. But getting the permission was a real miracle. I didn't think we'd ever get it the first time we talked with them. I guess that's the how the Lord always blesses his children. I love being able to help people come to Christ. I really, honestly hope to be a missionary all my life.

Oh, as for Jimmy, we found out that he only showers once a week (in the morning before church). And his baptism was Saturday. He didn't take a shower before it. When he took off his shoes, the entire bathroom filled with a rancid odor. It honestly smelled like skunk, and just as strong. I have NEVER smelled feet like that. We made him wash his feet in the sink before stepping into the faunt. Phew...

So as for a fun cultural note. I ate month old potatoe (they soaked it in water for a MONTH.... That's just worng). They made it into a cream and served it up in a bowl. And it smelled... well... rancid. It really got my stomach going. I only managed a little before I couldn't take it anymore... Ugh... But at least it's really healthy... Or so they say...

Other than that, life is going pretty good here in Huaraz. I love the culture here. Though I could go without the slaughter house in the middle of town. That place gives me the creeps. I never know how animals screamed when they died... They cut the pigs open live here. It's awful. And smells SO bad. They just dump the blood out of the side of the building into the river. That and there's always a ton of animals sitting around outside of the building, and they don't clean up after them. So that just adds to the lovely smell. Other than that, the area is really pretty, though.

Anyway, I love you all and hope that everything is going well up there in the US. I'm working hard and the Lord is really blessing me for my desires and efforts. I definitely have a testimony that the Lord completes with all of his promissed blessings that he gives in the scriptures. It's pretty incredible to me how directly and closely the Lord woks in my life. 

Thanks for the support and Love! Take Care everyone!

Elder Seth Prestwich

Huaraz-- In the Far Corners of the Mission.

Well, this week has been one of the longest weeks of my mission. Phew. I got sent off to Huaraz this time. I wen't by bus. It left at 9:15 pm and I got there at 7:00 am. Longest bus ride ever. It didn't matter how soft those seats were, they hurt by the morning. As for Huaraz itself, it's really quite pretty. It's got trees and green! We went on an hour bus ride to another town that's part of our area and the whole time I was enjoying the green cliffs and hills with the purple mountains in the background. It definitely felt close to home. WAY better than Trujillo. And to top it off, Trujillo is getting really hot right about this time of year, and it's still nice and cold here in Huaraz. We have to wear sweaters every day still. Which is the nicest escape from the heat. I think this is the first time I've ever been thankful for the cold.

The people here are great as well. They all talk SO funny. They have a rhythimic, singing tone in their voice. I have to hold back the laughs from time to time. It's awesome. And as soon as you get away from the touristy main streets, you get to true Peru. I didn't really know old Peruvian culture till I got up here. They people dress with bright colors (it almost looks native american) and they all have super tall cowboy looking hats. They're soo cool. And they all talk Ketchua here. Which is pretty crazy. From time to time I go to talk to someone and don't get why they don't understand me, until they answer me in Ketchua. So it's kinda funny to finally learn Spanish and then meet other people who don't speak Spanish. Kind of a funny reverse.

Anyway, we're working with our few investigators that we have. My companion, Elder Fernandez, has been here for 3 months and has had 11 baptisms in that time. But now he's hit a wall and I came in new. But we're working hard, looking for new investigators. Though people are a little bit more closed here, we'll manage to find a few people.

And as for the food, well... It's... alright. A lot of the food is similar, but people eat a lot more... intestine, chicken foot, liver, chicken throat, rotten potatoes (seriously, they soak a potatoe for a MONTH in cold water, then boil it and serve it with a weird green sauce.... just the smell made me sick), and several other strange things. But that's alright. At least I haven't gone so far in that they eat cats. That's all I ask for. But the pensionista likes me and said that she won't give me anything too weird. Phew.

Anyway, I'm off to work hard and help people to come unto Christ.

Thanks everyone for your support and love!

Elder Seth Prestwich

Off to the Mountains...

Hey everyone!

Changes came once again. This time I'm headed off to the far corner of the mission-- to Huaraz (area Huarupampa, I believe)! It's in the mountains of Peru, so that should be quite interresting. Though, it's far away from any... big city. A lot farther than Ascope. Ascope was 1 1/2 hours from Trujillo. Huaraz is 6. So that'll be a trip. I'm leaving tonight. So I'm not gonna be able to say goodbye to many people here.

Well, I feel as if my work here in Laredo was well done. I worked hard and diligently and the Lord guided us on our way. Maybe we didn't see many outside evidences, but we've started the work again. And I feel as if I will be leaving the area in a good place. We're ready to marry a couple, Clever and Juvicza, on the 20th. Then we'll just have to help them come to the waters of baptims, then later, the Temple. I really hope they can pull through to the end.

Other than that, I'm rather sad to leave Elder Quispe. He's been a great companion and we've really enjoyed working together. And though we didn't have a ton of baptisms we were able to work together with a good attitude every day here in Laredo.

But I'm excited to go to Huaraz and get to work. It'll be a definite change in enviroment (I'll have to buy a sweater), but I feel like I should really enjoy it. Time to go forward with faith.

Other than that, President Turk came to visit us this week. He was teaching with Elder Quispe and I for about 3 hours in the afternoon. We found several of the families that we were teaching, so that was really cool. It was a successful day and the President was happy with our work and the Spirit that was in our lessons. But he really testified of Christ in every aspect of the teaching and really brought the Spirit every time he talked. It was really cool to see his exaple in teaching agian.

Well, I'm just excited to get back to work and also to see the pretty part of the mission (though everyone says that the mountian food is terrible... that'll be fun). Keep me in your prayers! Thanks for all the prayers and support that you always send me. Know that I love you guys and I'm praying for all of you as well.

Take care!
Elder Seth Prestwich

The Mission President's Visit

Link to article and pictures of Seth and the mission President's visit.
http://terryandjanetturk.blogspot.com/2012/10/our-elders-in-laredo.html

Wow, I can't believe they lower the missionary age.... Crazy.

Hey, Everyone!

Well, this week went by alright. Though we did find a wonderful miracle. We've found several new complete families in these past few days. It's been really amazing to watch the spirit work with them even in the first lesson. But we're really excited to work with them and they've already become a big focus in our work for this week. Though it still presents one problem, we have to marry them all. We're working on that part. But there are some public weddings coming up where we can marry them for less money, so we're hoping that they can get their papers together before the date.

Other than that, we've made goals to better ourselves with all of the comitments that they extended during Conference. I made a long list from my notes, and I plan on makeing goals and plans to work more efficently and with the Spirit (and to just become more like Christ, of course). But I could really feel the Lord speak through His servants to help me. I know that they're called of the Lord. And I know that they recieve revelation to help the whole world. And it was amazing to see my investigators feel the Spirit testify the same to them.

But, wow, I can't believe they lowered the missionary age! That's insane. Guys can leave at 18 and girls at 19. That should really change things. There's gonna be a lot more sister missionaries. But like they said, we need them.

And they announced another temple in Peru! So they're gonna go from one to three in a short amount of time! But it's gonna be in Arequipa, which is the hometown of my companion! He totally flipped out the second they announced that! He jumped out of his chair and almost screamed. He held it in, but I could see that it almost came out. But that was super exciting for everyone. The work is really going forward here in Peru. The temples are gonna change the Chruch here completely.

Hope everyone is doing well! Stay safe and apply what you all learned in conference!
Elder Seth Prestwich

Seth's Birthday Pictures

These pictures were taken close to Seth's birthday...must have been his companions birthday as well. The egg on the head is traditional in many South American countries...not sure why.

General Conference is coming up!!

Hey everyone!

Well, we were able to confirm Hna. Sabina on Sunday, so all went well. She really could feel the Spirit and we can see the huge change that she's felt in her life.

This week I've been working hard on praying at all moments. While walking, teaching, preparing, everything. I've really felt a difference in the presence of the spirit. It really comes every time I ask for His company and for dirrection. It's definitely going to be a wonderful change in the amount of revelation that I can recive for my investigators.

We're running into a lot of road blocks with our investigators as of late. There's a lot of things that are keeping them from progressing, unfortunately. One pair isn't married and the papers are in remote corners of Huamachuco (even though they really want to get married and baptised). One was the best friend of a priest in the ward, but his parents didn't five him permission to be baptised. Another find other work that will leave Sunday open to go to church... I feel a bit frustrated with all of the obstacles  that we can't seem to jump. But we'll keep working and trying to help them find a way to come to Christ and we'll keep looking for more people who are ready to come to Christ.

We also ended up without a Pensionista this month. That's a bit worrying for us. So we have today covered by a member who can feed us once or twice, but after that...

Well, we're working hard. We've asked the whole ward and even some non members and everyone has said no. We'll just keep praying and hoping things work out...

And we don't have a kitchen, so we can't exactly cook for ourselves, but we'll figure it out.... 

So during fast and testimony meeting, I really felt touched by the testimonies of the members who talked about their conversions and about missionary work. It was just amazing to me the impact that missionaries and their message left on the lives of these people. There really aren't many things that someone can give that affects a life every day. One of the Sisters talked about when the missionaries came to her over 50 years ago, and the story still brought tears to her eyes. It's just amazing thinking about how greatly this message affects the lives of those who accept it. I guess it really renewed my energy to work hard to help other come to Christ. I honestly can't give much that will bring tears of joy to the eyes of someone 50 years from now, but here in the mission is probably my best chance to bless the lives of others. And not just for 50 years, but for all eternity.

I just take, but the Gospel of Jesus Christ keeps giving every day of your life and for all of eternity. It's amazing to share this with others and see it work in their lives. I hope everyone can feel the profound blessings that they recieve by being members of this church.

 And don't forget to go to Conference prepared to recieve revelation and answers to your questions!

Love you all! Take Care!

Elder Seth Prestwich

Baptism of Sabina

Hey everyone!

We had another baptism today! Our investigator, Sabina, got baptised. She's the mother of a member in the ward, but she's always been againt religion before. She's had a ton of problems and bad expiriences before and didn't want to get involved at first. But when she prayed and asked God if it was true, she got her answer and everything changed. We had to help her out a lot though, because she can't read or write. So we were always reading from the Book of Mormon to help her gain a personal testimony. She really found everything through prayer. She really has a ton of faith, and even though her other daughters were telling her not to get baptised, she told them that she made up her mind. She told them that she made a promise to God and nothing would stop her from following Him. So that was super cool. One of her daughters told us that she wanted to listen and would like to get baptised as well after she listened to the testimony of Sabina. She lives in another area, but she will still be a wonderful reference for someone.

And as a side note, we finally had a baptism where everything just worked out. There was noise from all the children, but that was about it. We had planned everything a head of time and it actually turned out like we planned. That was pretty amazing. So that's the first time in my mission that that's happened. So I could feel the spirit and relax a lot more that day.

Other than that, I've been eating cow liver with rice and showering in ice cold water every day, so everything is normal. We got "pizza" as well, so that was pretty cool... Though I'm gonna have to eat real pizza as soon as I get back. I can't wait for that and a real hamburger. And real ice cream. And Root Beer. And, well, the list could get pretty long, so I'll just leave it there. But I can't complain in all honesty, I'm really happy here. I guess my blessings all come in different ways.

But I've really been blessed with the chance to help people here. I love every day and every person that we teach. We'll be working really hard to help others see the blessings of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Just keep those I teach in your prayers and I know they'll find the faith to come unto Christ.

Thanks for all of your love and support! I love you all and you're all in my prayers!
Take care!
Elder Seth Prestwich (prezz-weish)

And now I'm counting down....

Everything has been going well here in Laredo! We've been working really hard to keep people coming to Christ. We've had a little success in our new goals of finding families as well! We've managed to find two families that seem really nice. We'll have to work really hard with them so they can make covenants, but I feel like they can both progress with a little time. We're gonna keep looking hard so we can find a family that's ready and willing to come unto Christ, though.

I was really impressed by the other Elders (Elder Palma and Elder Coronado) in Progresso with their baptism. Their investigator was pretty sick the day of her baptism, but she was still willing to do it. So the two of them brought her breakfast in the morning and managed to find a big portable stove to heat up the water for her as well. She was able to be baptised in luke warm water at least. But it really impressed my how they went as far as bringing her breakfast to make sure she was alright and happy. They really know how to make her feel loved and show that they care.

Nothing way too interesting happend other than that this week. We're just working and hopeing that all goes well! Thanks so much for your support and care!
Love ya!
Elder Seth Prestwich

I still put my fingers on W S A D....

Well, I feel really great about what we could do this week. We've been really trying to follow the Spirit and be obedient with all the rules, and it's shown. We've been able to find new people and the people we're working with have started to progress. Well, two or three of those people. We're really excited about our two fechas and have, as always, high hopes for them.

When I was on divisions with my mission leader last Sunday, he started asking me what it was like to be a missionary and how I felt about it. He's preparing to go on his mission, but in this last while he seems to have gotten excited about going. He asked me how I felt being a missionary, and I started wondering about how normal it seemed to me these days. It's what I do every day without rest. I do the same thing every day in the same area, but it somehow stays interresting. I feel a consistent happiness that doesn't often leave me. I guess I just got used to having all that, so I didn't really think about it much. So I sat there thinking about how blessed I really am. I guess I've let consistencey rob me of the wonders that come from this work. So I'm rededicating myself to looking for the little miracles that happen every day.

Oh, and I found out that two more of my investigators that were close to baptism in Huanchaco got baptized recently!
Hna. Cleidy and Hno. Pepe. So that was super exciting to hear about. I'm super happy for them and really hope they can keep strong as well.

As for cool things that I've done these day, it would be when we went to the lake here in Laredo. There a tiny little village that's about a half hour away called Conache, but there's a little lake and some sand dunes over there. It was actually super fun to go. They've got a nice little picnick area to go to and a field to play soccer. We went with a few families from the ward and it was tons of fun. We played soccer for a while, then headed up to the dunes. It was about a 20 minute hike through the farm fields so it was nice and green. Then we went sprinting up the dunes (as far as we could get, anyway) and running or rolling back down. It really made for a good time.

But thanks for the updates! I hope all is well and that everyone is healthy!
I'll be praying for everyone!
Elder Seth Prestwich

Happy Birthday, Jaren!!

Hey, everyone!

Well, I feel pleased with this last week's work. Our numbers weren't anything out of the ordinary, really, but the Lord really blessed us with success! We now have two fechas [dates] and two progressing investigators! So we're really excited and working really hard to take care of them. Their names are Esther and Carmelo. Esther is the neighbor of a member family and she's only 8 years old. We've been teaching her and her mom. They both want to be baptized, but her mom has to get married first, so she'll have to come later. Carmelo is a 17 year old who's pretty quite, but seems really excited to hear about the Restoration. He's always receptive to our message.

So we'll be working hard to make sure they keep excited about coming to church, reading, and praying. We're helping them learn how to endure to the end so they can be baptized and keep going afterward. But it'll be very possible that they're our first baptisms here in Laredo! We're super thankful for the blessings that the Lord has given us (and them at the same time).

Oh, and they're iguanas here! I don't know if I ever mentioned it, but we were walking over a little bridge one day, and there was this giant green iguana that leaped out of the river and went running across the bridge! It was super crazy. And he was a super vibrant green. He totally freaked us out, but it was cool to see a little wildlife (other than stray dogs and chickens).

I really hope everyone is doing great and enjoying life!
Don't forget that God intended us to enjoy this life and find eternal happiness in the next! =P

Take care, everyone! Love ya!
Elder Seth Prestwich

Another cambio that flew by...

Well, time seems to be flying by these days. We're working hard each day. As of late, I've been really trying to focus on putting my whole effort into today. I want to be able to look back at each day, happy that I did what I did. I don't want to laze off and end up with regrets. I know I don't have much time here in the mission, especially for how important this work is. But I'm rededicating myself to working like every day is my last chance to change the lives of others. It really helps me change my attitude. I may have to make a lot of sacrifices, but it's always worth it.

It's odd to think how little we do, but how much the Lord makes of it. He's really relying on normal, 20 year old kids to go preach the most important message that anyone will ever hear. We have tons of weaknesses and struggles, but the Lord always carries our words and efforts to the hearts of those we teach. He leads us to all the people who are ready to accept the Gospel. I love being here.

Thanks everyone for your prayers and support!

As for a good story, I got to eat my first guinea pig! There's pretty much no meat at all, and it's kinda slimy. But they put a really good sauce on it, so I couldn't help but like it.

Well, time is up again, sorry about a short letter, but I love you all! Take care of yourselves!
Elder Seth Prestwich

Who's gonna play soccer with me when I get back?

Well, the week went by well again. We're getting to know more and more people here. We're finding a lot of new people to teach. The only thing we aren't finding is people who want to progress. We're trying really hard to help our investigators keep their commitments and make it to church, but it's just not happening. We talk and invite and follow up but they just don't follow through. So we'll keep looking, because the Lord is preparing someone here. Someone is ready to accept the Gospel. We just need to find out who.

Other than that, I can really see the difference between now and when I started the mission. Instead of getting down on myself when no one progresses, I'm on my feet working to find someone. I know someone is out there and I'm determined to do all I can to find them. I now know how to do things a lot better and I never feel helpless or lost. There's always something I can do.

In other news, we play soccer every Monday and Friday morning as a zone. That tends to be my moment to just have fun and lighten my mood. I'm getting a whole lot better at it, but I'm still nothing compared to the Latinos. They tend to have played soccer all their lives. So I've got a lot of catching up to do... Though I'm learning pretty fast. I just think it's funny how the things I practiced as a kid (I took Spanish classes and played a little bit of soccer) just all came back for these two years.

Hope all is going well for everyone! How goes the new school year?
Elder Seth Prestwich

=======================
Hey Dad!

Wow, those are some crazy Olympics stories. That's really impressive and a great insight. It's definitely the same here in the mission. You can see a huge difference between the success of the missionaries who give up when things don't go their way and those who decide to try harder. I'm learning to be the second. I get over myself when I feel down and put all my time into the mission. That's what made the difference in my last area, and that's what's gonna get this area started. Because in the moments when you just feel down right tired from doing all that you can, God steps in and leads you to the one person who's ready to come to Christ.

And Mr Butcher is quite the funny guy... XD

Hope all is well!
Seth

A couple of pictures

Each time I post here I add the link to Seth's Facebook account. Often, when I login there are friend requests from various people in Peru. Seth told me to add them, so I do. This time Korin was on the add friend list, and when I did I saw she had pictures of her baptism. Which included Seth. Since we don't really see pictures of Seth I downloaded all of them and put a few here :). Hope Korin doesn't mind. In looking back at Seth's emails here is the description of this day in July. -- Alan

"Our baptism was scheduled for Sunday after church on Sunday, so we left in the morning to fill the font, and there wasn't any water. That tends to be a problem when you have to dunk someone completely underwater. So we called the Bishop, the other members, we did everything to get it working, but there wasn't any solution. Members were trying to fix the problem during church even, but in the end, we had to tell Hna. Korin (our investigator) that we weren't going to be able to baptize her here. We suggested Casa Grande (30 minute bus ride) but that was too far and she was pretty sad. But the members came to the rescue and suggested that we go to a nearby river to do it.

 

Baptisms in rivers are adventures, just throwing it out there. We all hopped onto the bus and left to the river. The service was nice, but Elder Castro had lots of trouble making it to a deep part of the river. He was super timid and it turns out, it was the first time he'd ever been in a river before. We could tell... It was super funny seeing him try to get around. But he managed to get out there and baptise Hna. Korin. So all turned out well in the end, despite the havoc (emotionally speaking as well) that happened in the morning. But just as long as the havoc isn't for the investigator, all's well."

Elder Castro, Korin & Elder Seth Prestwich

Seth called it a river, looks more like an irrigation ditch

On a "bridge"? :)

Working Hard....

Well, I feel like we're doing pretty well here in Laredo. Elder Quispe and I have been talking with everyone and doing our best to find someone who's willing to listen and keep their commitments. Of all the people we've found there might be two or three. We managed to find two progressing investigators already so we really hope to help them. They'll need a little work and time, it seems, but miracles happen in the mission every day.

This week felt quite long, but at least we saw progression in the area. I've been looking back at what I've learned in the mission a lot this week. I realize that I've already learned priceless lessons and my whole view of life has changed. I've changed my priorites and learned how to work and love someone else --to forget myself for once. I just hope I can keep learning and keep my mind open to the lessons the Lord has prepared for me. I've grown a desperate desire to listen and learn from the Lord so I can keep progressing as fast as possible. I don't want to fall behind and not be able to fulfill the things that the Lord wants me to do. But more than anything else, I've come to know, even more than before, that Christ is my Savior and that the Atonement is real. It's become a part of life instead of a pretty idea that I'm trying to chace. The mission really does bring the miracle of conversion if you let it.

I can already see how I'll live differently after I come back and how differently I act now. I'm really quite glad to be here. I wouldn't change this chance to be here for anything.

Other than that, I've got a really funny moment to share.
I've definitely gotten used to being here in Peru. The living conditions might not be as good, but I'm okay with that. For example, we don't really have mirrors a lot of the time. We work with a tiny hand mirror to get ourselves ready for the day. And that's with only dull light in the morning. So I don't actually see my face much at all. I guess I kinda forget that I'm so white, becuase I looked into a real mirror after quite some time and it shocked me at how white I was. It was quite the weird moment, I have to admit. It kinda seemed like one of those movies where the guy looks in the mirror and he's someone else. It was the oddest thing....

That and I watched some kids make some pretty amazing fireworks in the street. Pretty dangerous as well, but you've just got to have fireworks to celebrate a day for a saint.

But I really hope all is well for everyone! Good luck with the new school year!
Elder Seth Prestwich

Laredo, Por Venir

Well, everything is going well here in Laredo. We're already getting used to the  area and the members. They welcomed us in quite nicely. We have a whole lot of hope for finding new investigators. We found a good number, but not many that will progress very rapidly, so we're still looking for someone who's prepared. We know that the Lord has been getting someone here ready to recieve the Gospel.

My new companion is Elder Quispe, El Guapo (The Handsome). He's got a missionwide nickname for how he acts. He's got ridiculously expensive name brand deoderant, cologne, and gel. He puts it on constantly and makes sure his hair is nice and pretty every time he passes a mirror. He's pretty much the biggest pretty boy I've ever seen, but at least he works. As long as he works, I'm not really worried about it. But he really does make me laugh. Should be an interresting month and a half.

I'm not gonna be able to write much more since my keyboard is broken, but I'll do my best.

So my new mission leader's name is Jose. He's quite the character. He's 22 years old and everyone calls him "cid" for Cid the Sloth. He looks and acts just like him, so I thought it was really fitting. He helps us out, but there's just one problem. He hates gringos. He says that all north americans are racist because of what he's seen on the news and because we don't welcome all immigrants into our country. So he's not very fond of me... He calls me and my country racist every day, but I'll just have to grin and bear it. Maybe he'll change his mind when I show him otherwise through my own actions. I really hope so, because I'm stuck with him for a good while.

Well, I'm out of time, but I hope all is well!
Take care everyone!
Elder Seth Prestwich

Off to Trujillo...

Hey Everyone!

 

Well, everything went well this week. Hna. Maricruz was baptized and confirmed and we were able to finish the cambio with a progressing investigator. We're really struggling with refrences from members and our lessons were really low this week, but even then, we saw progress in the most important investigators.

It's always really exciting to see people making covenants with the Lord. Nothing went wrong this time for the baptism, well almost nothing. I guess one of the members decided that the font was full and stopped the water before it finished filling. When I opened up the font to see what was up, I found it really low, but we didn't have enough time to fill it up all the way. It's a good thing I was baptizing someone small or it would have been really difficult. She really had to dubble over to imerse herself all the way.

But other than that, all has been going well. I got the call saying that I'm headed out to Por Venir, Trujillo. I'm really depressed about leaving Ascope, though. When my companion was talking to the district leader and told me that I'd be heading out, it really hit me. I guess I was expecting to stay in the area and keep working and getting to know the people, but I got shortcutted. I guess I couldn't get too comfortable here. So off to Trujillo it is. I'm excited to see my new area a zone and work hard to serve the Lord. It'll be the first time that I'll be  in the city part of Trujillo, so that should be different. Even if it isn't the best area.

 

Hope all is well and that everyone is enjoying vacations!

Elder Seth Prestwich

A Birthday in Perú!

Hello Everyone!

 

Well, the last week went by pretty great. Hna. Korin was confirmed and that same day went out with a sister from the ward to do some visiting teaching. So she's really on the ball and is accepted into the ward. I was really happy to see that she's comfortable in Relief Society and has friends among the members. I have high hopes for her and really feel like she'll be able to endure to the end.

 

Other than that, a few of the members made me things for my birthday. One family treated me to a wonderful Lunch and another made me quite an amazing birthday card. I'll show you the pictures when I can. But the day went by well, we had success in finding new investigators. We had a really good reference from a member as well, so we're hoping he'll be able to progress.

 

I also got a wonderful gift from Hna. Korin. She was in Trujillo, and while she was there, she bought us Maple Syrup (which doesn't really exist down here, only in one store in Trujillo that has North American foods) for pancakes! So we'll be enjoying that sometime this week. I'm pretty excited to taste that again.

 

Elder Castro and I also have activities every Friday night to help with the work. The idea is that the members will bring friends to the activity or that they'll get to know us better and be willing to help us. It works pretty well. We teach something short, then play games or sports, something like that. And it's fun to play some traditional games from the US that the members haven't seen before. For example, the Friday before the last, pretty much all of the Young Single Adults showed up, but only them. We had about 15 people and I wondered what we could do that they'd enjoy. So we played Mafia. It was pretty entertaining, but it worked great with the YSA. The game is a whole lot different than anything they have down here, so it was really funny to see their reactions. But they were laughing and accusing and enjoyed it a lot.

 

By the way, I would love to hear a list of games suggestions and such that I could do for these activites.

I also want to do a Family Feud type game, so little completitions in that sense would be appreciated too.

 

I hope all is going great for everyone! I'm doing quite well and am really happy to be here doing the Lord's work.

Take care!

Elder Seth Prestwich

Careful on Friday the 13th.... Especially you, Dad. =P

We had quite the adventure of a baptism this week. It seemed as if everything we going to go smoothly when we woke up that morning, but life had other plans.

Our baptism was scheduled for Sunday after church on Sunday, so we left in the morning to fill the font, and there wasn't any water. That tends to be a problem when you have to dunk someone completely underwater. So we called the Bishop, the other members, we did everything to get it working, but there wasn't any solution. Members were trying to fix the problem during church even, but in the end, we had to tell Hna. Korin (our investigator) that we weren't going to be able to baptize her here. We suggested Casa Grande (30 minute bus ride) but that was too far and she was pretty sad. But the members came to the rescue and suggested that we go to a nearby river to do it.

 

Baptisms in rivers are adventures, just throwing it out there. We all hopped onto the bus and left to the river. The service was nice, but Elder Castro had lots of trouble making it to a deep part of the river. He was super timid and it turns out, it was the first time he'd ever been in a river before. We could tell... It was super funny seeing him try to get around. But he managed to get out there and baptise Hna. Korin. So all turned out well in the end, despite the havoc (emotionally speaking as well) that happened in the morning. But just as long as the havoc isn't for the investigator, all's well.

 

Well, I'm out of time, but I hope everyone can enjoy this coming week. Thanks for the letters and updates!
Elder Seth Prestwich

Hna. Flor was baptized!

Well, Hna. Flor was baptized! The baptism was super hectic, but it all turned out well in the end. The members really supported her and gave her a great welcome into the ward. I felt a happy security that she'll be able to endure to the end. She'll always want to be a part of the ward and the ward will take care of her as well. It was great to see that.

The only problem is that she wasn't confirmed. We'll get right on that....

Other than that, Hna. Korin is preparing for a baptism this week and she's really excited. She's read a good part of the Book of Mormon and has prayed about it several times. She's told us that she knows it comes from God and feels welcome in the ward as well. I'm super happy with what they're doing to help the new converts and investigators. We really owe a lot to them.

My companion and I are still getting along great and working hard to help people come unto Christ. We're keeping diligent and always becoming better missionaries and people. We're not going to slack off on the Lord's errand. Anything that we're not doing well, we're changing.

And I got some wonderful news! The Elders in Huanchaco (my first area, well, only other area....) were able to baptize another family that I worked really hard with! We spent so much time teaching Paul, Rina and her family. They never quite made it to baptism when I was there, but they finally made it with the support of the ward! So Hna. Blanca, Hna. Judith, and Paul and his family were able to make covenants. It's great to hear that those people that I was teaching continued and made the choice to follow Christ.

Oh, and thanks so much for the package!! I'm SO excited to eat all the candy and I'll wait to open the present on my birthday. But I'm super greatful. I got super excited to see that huge package when they handed it to me.

I hope everyone is doing great! Sorry that nothing too interesting happend this week. More work than anything. We saw some great miracles with the help of the members.

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY, EVERYONE!!

Elder Seth Prestwich

The Gift of Glasses...

Well, this week turned out to have quite a few ups and downs, but, when all is said and done, it was a good week. We now have two baptismal dates (Hna. Flor and Hna. Cori), so we're working hard with them. They're both progressing and excited to be baptized. If all goes through well, one will be baptized the 30th of June and the other the 8th of July. But we're looking for someone who will be ready for July 14th as well (that'd be a pretty sweet birthday present, if you ask me). There are a few possible people, so we're focusing on them as well.

Other than that, I've had good heath. My companion had to go to the dentist to yank his tooth out. He's feeling pain, but I imagine he'll recover quickly. He's not one to be held down for long. But we're still getting along well and working hard. We're getting excited to start seeing baptisims in the area.

 

Out whole zone also had the chance to help out the community this week. A group of eye doctors came down from the United States (from Utah, mostly members) to give out glasses to the people in Perú. I guess Trujillo has really bad eyes. He told me that it's one of the worst cases of eye disease in the world. So they came down to try and help them see again. There was just one problem-- only one or two of them spoke Spanish. So that's where we came in. We translated all the things that the Peruvians were saying so we could help them find the glasses they were looking for and communicate their problems so they doctors could help them. That and those who didn't speak english worked as helping hands. But there were thousands (literally) of people who came in to get glasses. It was super crouded and just a fairly organized chaos, but it we were able to help a ton of people. They brought millions of glasses to give to these people. Crazy. But we could see how grateful they were to get that help. Especially those who had other medical problems, because there was no way they they could spend the money to buy new glasses. But, man, did we see some really bad eyes...

 

I also got to see my first firework castle! They have a tradition of building these massive, flimsy wooden frames of a castle (like a spire of a castle). They then fill the frames with levels and levels of fireworks. They light one massive fuse in the middle and it slowly works its way up to light each level of the castle. It had about 12-15 levels or so and each level lasted 2-3 minutes. It got bigger and better (and more dangerous) with every level. It was pretty exciting to see the fireworks so close, though I definitely felt better taking the back row.

 

Well, I'm out of time, but I hope everyone's doing great! Take care! I'll be praying for everyone.

Elder Seth Prestwich

One More Week...!

Well, we're still working on placing baptismal dates, but we have high hopes for this next week. We have a few investigators that are prepared and ready, they just need to overcome their doubt and fear. We'll have to rely on the Spirit to do that one, so we're studying hard to help them feel the spirit in the lessons and from their commitments. We have faith that if we work hard, we'll see changes in the area this week.

Other than that, I'm pumped to work and help the people here. I know we'll be able to see change and progress soon, so I'm not giving in even a tiny bit. My health is good and my spirits are up, so we'll pray faithfully to recieve the guidance of the Spirit.

 

So I just have an interresting culture fact this week. I always passed the shoes that were hanging from the power lines in the streets But when I asked my Chilean companion why they were there, he told me that when he finished school, he would throw his shoes on the power lines with his friends. So I thought it was something normal. But my companion taught me this week that it's to show respect for the people who've died. So if someone dies near that area, they throw of pair of their shoes on the lines and leave it there. It's funny how the culture can change so much just between two bordering countires.

 

Sorry I don't have much time this week. Hope all is well!

Elder Seth Prestwich

Marco's Baptism!

Well, little Marcito was finally baptized! He decided that this last week was fine and he got pretty excited about it by the end. During the baptism, I could see the spirit that he felt. He was very calm and smiling after the baptism and even had watery eyes after his confirmation. It was cool to be able to baptize him and it was really awesome to see that and help him find that happiness. Now he'll be able to endure to the end with the help of all his siblings. It was really awesome to see all of them reach the waters of baptism and make those convenants.

 

Other than that, we're working really hard with a few other people. We have one or two people who will possibly be baptized this Saturday, but no specific baptismal dates. We'll be praying and working hard for a miracle in one of our investigators!

 

Other than that, I had a work visit with my district leader. That went really well and I learned a lot from him. He's a good missionary and has changed a whole lot in his mission. I love to listen to his experiences and see how one can grow in the mission.

 

And as for another note of good news, the drunk that always chases us down screaming "Joseph Smith! Joseph Smith!" moved to Italy! He told us he was leaving, but we didn't take him seriously. He was the strangest man I've ever met.... He told us that he's prayed to know that the Book of Mormon is true and he recieved his answer, but we could never teach him or talk with him about it because he was drunk every day. He asked me one day to take him the the US becase he'd be able to find a better life there, but I'm afraid that he'd just find alochol and live the same. Poor guy. Too bad we couldn't help him with something, but he's gotta make his own descision to change. There are some interresting characters here in Perú.....

 

The whole valley (well, all the little farming cities) lost power one night as well! At 7:00 the entire town went super dark! And nobody had back up lights and there were very few flashlights. So when it went dark, it went really dark. We had to head back to the room and rest a few hours early. It'd be really nice, but we missed a really important appointment. But other than that... I got a few hours more of sleep!

 

My companion woke up shiverring this morning. I just woke up feeling normal. I asked him why he wouldn't get out of bed, and he told me that it was just way too cold. I didn't get it. It was completely backwards to how it was before. I was the one always cold! Just one of those odd moments when the world felt a little backwards...

 

Hope all is going well, thanks for the emails!

Elder Seth Prestwich

They Say That It's Winter, But I'm Still Sweating All Day.... Yay, Perú!

This week had a lot of ups and downs. Our key indicators are higher than normal, but unfortunately our baptismal dates have all fallen. We're working hard to put new goals for them and to help the come to Christ. We're not giving up on anyone, and we're still looking for more people to teach.

We had a large amount of help from the members this week. We were able to do divisions and visit referals from the members as well. It was so helpful to have thier support in the work, and with that came a lot of success. We found a lot of new people to teach and one or two that seem quite prepared to recieve the Gospel! We're super excited to work with them and see how they progress in these next couple of weeks.

So I had another great food experience! It was pretty exciting. My Pensionista gave us a new soup! It was made of very large stewed corn, which tasted great! But it was also full of this unreacognizeable... meat? I ate it, and decided that it was a mushroom or something. It tasted really weird, and was kinda soggy. Ugh. I decided I had to ask my companion once I finished, and he explained it to me. But he was using a word that I didn't know, so I didn't really understand. That night, I looked up the word in the dictionary .... intestine.

I ate.... cow intestine... *shiver*.

If you want proof that how you feel physically is all in your head, you should have felt the shift in my stomach after I read that word....

But that aside, we had a great ward activity called, "Eat, Drink, and Be Merry!" It was pretty great. There was a dance with a dinner and other games and such. Each one had it's own room, but then there was us, the missionaries, teaching lessons at the end. Few took the time to listen to us, but that was the point. After all the fun, we taught about the Plan of Salvation and how we should always make time for the things of God. It was pretty fun. I just thought the title was really funny.

And I don't know if you guys have heard, but they're now sending 18 year olds on the mission in South America! A card just came to our ward letting us know that the 12 Apostles have made the descision to send the 18 year old boys who've finished High School (and 2 years of Seminary) on their missions. So they'll be going out a year earlier... Crazy. So there's gonna be a ton of kids leaving on their missions this year.

Hope all is well! I'm doing great down here and am excited to work with all of the new people we've found. I'll let you know how it all goes!

Elder Seth Prestwich