Hello everyone,This week we had the opportunity to meet again with our investigator Leroy (who has been investigating off and on for 13 years, his wife is a member) and his less active daughter Chelsea. Last week we taught them the restoration and had a strong spiritual experience and we committed Chelsea to continue meeting with us and her dad along with reading the scriptures that we send her everyday. Her dad wasn't sure she would do it. After about two weeks of sending her a scripture everyday we are pleased to say that she has read each one them and prayers everyday. I was watching her demeanor as we were teaching the plan of salvation this week and noticed she was in a way glowing. She was smiling so big. I looked right at her and said "why are you so happy?" She responded saying I don't know I just am. I reflected on the answer and know that it really was because she was receiving the blessings of doing her daily scriptures study and prayers. We know that when we apply this gospel to our lives that it really blesses us. However, this was truly amazing to see in Chelsea.
We actually meet Chelsea about two months ago while at her Dads house (She is in her 30's and has a few children but they have all been taken away). While we were eating Carol her step mom looks over at us and says "just as a heads up our daughter is here and she isn't emotionally doing well. She has threatened to take her life and is just extremely depressed with all the legal issues surrounding her and not being able to have her children." I told her how I can understand the stress they are in and that I have had to work with teens that were going through similar situations. She looked at me with an expression that expressed so much hope. When Chelsea walked in she looked at me with a red face and tear filled eyes looking completely hopeless. Her mom then says to her "Sister Johnson is experienced in what you are going through, what if you guys talk about things and you can get some help." I remember taking a deep breathe and think O man what have I just gotten myself into? She then started having a panic attack and I felt like we had to take her outside and go on a walk. We started to talk about things she liked and then she just started going crazy and saying everything that was upsetting. She explained how there is either no God or he hates her. She almost passed out and right as she started to sway I quickly grabbed her and stabilized her. Right when I had my arms around her I then felt an overwhelming amount of love for her and tried to express the feelings I was feeling. She was able to calm down. Since then she is still struggling emotionally but is doing so much better. She smiles and is able to talk about other things. She has even been to church the last two weeks and talks about taking her kids to church when she gets them back.
Together they are doing great. Leroy is planning on getting baptized some time in September by his father-in-law. Its truly amazing to see his light change as well and how he is able to bare a sweet testimony to his daughter about the love of our Savior. I know that doing the simply things is what makes a world of a difference. That is what they have been doing and they are becoming the people they have always wanted to be. I love watching them grow and seeing miracles every time we are together.
Another miracle of the week was while we were teaching Pete (our other investigator that started meeting with us after meeting with elders for 10 plus years). When we first got there Arty (the elder's investigator that they have kind of given up on) was there with them he is kind of there son in law. He was on his way out though so he said good bye and left. We started talking to Pete about what we have been teaching him when about 10 minutes had passed Arty walked back into the room. We were all surprised but continued with the lesson. They both then shared a concern they have been having. They asked "we want to know how this will change us." We smiled knowing it really won't because they both have been coming to church and Pete has been coming to church for years with his wife and besides a sip of coffee every once in a while he basically lives like a mormon. So I said "It really won't, but it will help you improve." I then felt inspired to put aside the lesson we planned and go through the interview questions with them. We went through each one and explained them to them and answered any questions they had. It was such a spiritual experience to help them see that they both actually had testimonies of these things. At the end they agreed to have a baptism interview on the 13th and then prepare to be baptized on the 17th. They also committed to live the word of wisdom. At the end Arty said "Its funny, as I was leaving earlier I felt like I had to come back and be apart of this lesson. I was needing to hear these things." I almost started crying because about 3 months ago we had dinner with Arty and I had a feeling that we were supposed to be teaching him. But I waited too long to say something and he left. I called the elders that night to tell them they have to talk to him when they saw him the next day. However, I never felt right about it, I always felt like we were supposed to be teaching him. Those feelings of guilt have been with me and I am reminded of my unwillingness to following a prompting from the spirit every time I saw him. So now we are teaching him to. it feels so much better now that Pete and Arty are learning together. They are a week clean of coffee and they came to church. Arty wasn't going to come because he had to drive his family out of town. But after our lesson on Saturday about church attendance. he told them "He will be going to church then he will drive them to Sacramento." His family all came to church with him. It was really amazing to see and I loved hearing them bare there testimonies in class when the lesson turned out to be on the Word of Wisdom. Arty says he is for sure getting baptized next week and Pete knows he will get baptized but not sure if he is ready for Sunday.
Please keep them in your prayers they are all so amazing and have such sweet spirits. They have all become like family to me, I love them and pray they can reach there goals and just feel the blessings of this gospel.
UPDATE: Glen's lungs have been feeling up with liquid and then it hardens. Because of this he had to have a pretty intense surgery. We haven't heard how he is doing now but hopefully the surgery was successful.
FUNNY STORY: Lately I haven't been sleeping all that great. Well Saturday while sleeping I felt a dogs nose rub against my hand I was so startled that I jumped out of bed and yelled "shew, get away from me." It kept rapping around me though. My companion jumps out of bed and is confused saying sister Johnson what's going on. And I was like "a dog" my eyes began to focus and I see my "attacking dog" was actually sister smiths bday balloon floating around me because of the fan. I was embarrassed and didn't say anything, I just turned around and walked to the bathroom like nothing just happened. I waited in there till my heart rate went back to normal. I went back to bed but before I did I made sure the balloon was no where near me. My companion had to stuff that stupid balloon under the bed so it couldn't haunt anymore of my dreams.
Well hope you all enjoy and have an amazing week. Next time I write you all I will know if I am moving or not. :) exciting part of me wants to stay because I love my area and want to help these people more. But another part of me is ready for new adventures.
Love you all thanks for your prayers and support.
Sister Johnson
Sent from my iPad
Thursday, August 14, 2014
Letter from Sister Tiffany Johnson August 10, 2014
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Letter from Sister Tiffany Johnson, July 14, 2014
Hello,
Its another week in the Sunny Corning area. Transfers came and went. Staying the same has its pluses and minuses. So lets keep positive and say more positives than negatives. Such as at least I
didn't have to pack, I didn't have to worry about meeting new people, I already know my companion etc. But most importantly God wants us to be together in this area for a third of my mission so I will trust that he knows best and this is the best step for us, to stay and continue working together. We set some new goals and openly talked to each other about things that we need to change so that we don't end up fighting or becoming angry with each other. We want to stay friends and keep the work progressing. Thats are goal so thats whats going to happen.
The week was pretty good. The young women are back from girls camp and are literally calling us to come out with us. Finding members to come out is the opposite problem of everyone else we have to many and we are trying to find the ones that would work best with our investigators. But its really nice seeing the young women and members get so excited about missionary work. We talk to them about ways they could help and they have been doing them. Inviting friends to meet with us, having dinner parties to invite our investigators too, and offer rides to church to those we teach. Our recent converts love the ward and are the popular hot topics. They are always included and now go out and tell others about how happy they are that they joined the church. That this really is there ward family.
Member missionary work really is a blessing it allows us to be more like our Savior because that is what he did. He was always teaching the people and inviting the to join him. So if we really have
faith in him and really want to become like him than we wont just serve a mission for 18-24 months but we will truly deticate our lives to serving Gods children. Its doesn't have to be a big thing of going out and teaching the first discussion. But it can be small and simple things of just inviting your friends to come to your home for a dinner and allow them to feel the spirit in your home. The people that we teach that accept this message easier are those that have known members and have had good experiences with them. You never know the people you will affect just by being in there presence.
I really learned this Tuesday while we were visiting our less active Allysha who is 18 and has a baby. She has started coming back to church over the last month and really enjoys it. She is loved by
the ward and seems really happy to make changes in her life. She has facial piercings. tattoos, and the first time I saw her she was smoking. We hadn't taught her yet about the word of wisdom. But when
we were talking with her she said "I remember the first time I really talked to you sisters, you came up and I was smoking. I had a baby and had piercings and tattoos. But you both were so sweet to me and didn't seem phased by the way I was living life. I couldn't get over how official I must have looked to you and though I never felt judged by you I knew I needed to change. That was the last time I ever smoked." So I didn't know that but that means she has been about 2 months clean of smoking. I was shocked and so happy to hear the changes she has been making. She has also been reading the Book of Mormon, and knows she needs to take some of her piercings out. She has come to church multiples times and is working on going back to school and finding a job. She has the desire to change her life. Though we have said things that have helped her the real thing that
got her to change was our presence. Which we know as the spirit that we bring working through us to touch her. That is what you can do for those around you. You can change and affect people and never realize it. That is why it is so important to really think about every action or thing we do. Is it worth it, will it change the way people look at me, is this really representing Jesus Christ well? Because wether we like it our not everything we do affects the way people see this church.
Amanda is another investigator that I have just grown to love so much. Last Sunday she decided to give up smoking. I am please and proud to annouce she is a week clean. But we had a funny experience with her that really helped us actually help her in the end. Thursday we had a lesson with her. We brought our recent convert Emily with us. When Amanda opened the door she had an awkward smile and said "hey guys come on in". When I stepped inside I realized why. She was having a suprise inspection from her probation officers. There were four of them searching through her home and we just had to sit there awkwardly while they searched everything. After they left she laughed and said how embarrassed she was. But I already suspected that she was on probation by the things she had said in the past. It was great because now I could ask the questions I needed to ask and it wouldn't be as awkward. I found out what she had done and that she would be on probation til 2017 but she could get off sooner if she does everything she needs too. I knew that this ment we were going to not be able to allow her to be baptized on the 20th which she has really been working for. I didn't know how to break it to her or how to tell her. I told her I don't have all the answers but I was going to find out.
I was able to talk to the mission president about this, he is truly an inspired man that I have really grown to love. He counseled with me on things that I need to do and ask and the steps we need to
take to help Amanda progress towards baptism. He said to teach her about priesthood and how that its the first presidency that will need to approve her getting baptized. That they hold that proper priesthood authority and will pray specifically about her and ask God.
To be honest I was nervous to go back and to explain these things to her. I didn't want to hurt her feelings and tell her that its going to be a long process and that the first presidency has to approve her. So I prayed and prayed for a way that I could explain it to her to make sence. I didn't want it to be confusing or sound judgmental.
But we walked in and began talking; I felt a feeling to pull up a picture of Christ being baptized and talked about the importance of being fully repentant before being baptized and how it needs to be
done by the someone holding the priesthood. She stopped me and said that reminds me of a question. She asked how someone got the priesthood and other questions about it. I was so happy because that
led perfectly to what we had to teach her about her being able to be baptized.
After explaining it to her she looked at me and said "hum... I guess thats alright. I mean I feel like I am becoming repentant that God is forgiving me. So if this prophet and other men are really praying to God then they will get the same answer. So I am okay to wait and to work with them. I guess the extra time will just help me find out if all these things are true." I was so relieved and happy. She also bore her testimony about how much this gospel has changed her. She knows she was always a good person but wasn't always making the best choices. By meeting with us she has been able to do that. She now is becoming the person she always wanted to be. She never thought she could quit smoking. But she has and is determined to continue. She can't say that the church is true yet but she wants to. Shes been reading and is still waiting for her answer to know all these things true.
But now I need your prayers. Glenn is going to be getting baptized this Saturday. However, his health has taken a turn for the worst. He is literally on his death bed. He has kidney failure, now is
low on red blood cells, and has some sort of the flu. He can't really eat and is getting weaker everyday. His dying wish is to be baptized. I pray that he can make it there. I don't know how much longer he has on this earth but I know that he is doing good in Gods eyes because of his desires. He is so amazing and I just love his spirit and his willingness to keep fighting even though his entire body is giving up on him. I will keep you posted on him in the following week. I love you all and know that this is truly the lords work I am so blessed to be his servant and thankful for the opportunity he gives me to learn and grow.
LOVE Sister Johnson
Its another week in the Sunny Corning area. Transfers came and went. Staying the same has its pluses and minuses. So lets keep positive and say more positives than negatives. Such as at least I
didn't have to pack, I didn't have to worry about meeting new people, I already know my companion etc. But most importantly God wants us to be together in this area for a third of my mission so I will trust that he knows best and this is the best step for us, to stay and continue working together. We set some new goals and openly talked to each other about things that we need to change so that we don't end up fighting or becoming angry with each other. We want to stay friends and keep the work progressing. Thats are goal so thats whats going to happen.
The week was pretty good. The young women are back from girls camp and are literally calling us to come out with us. Finding members to come out is the opposite problem of everyone else we have to many and we are trying to find the ones that would work best with our investigators. But its really nice seeing the young women and members get so excited about missionary work. We talk to them about ways they could help and they have been doing them. Inviting friends to meet with us, having dinner parties to invite our investigators too, and offer rides to church to those we teach. Our recent converts love the ward and are the popular hot topics. They are always included and now go out and tell others about how happy they are that they joined the church. That this really is there ward family.
Member missionary work really is a blessing it allows us to be more like our Savior because that is what he did. He was always teaching the people and inviting the to join him. So if we really have
faith in him and really want to become like him than we wont just serve a mission for 18-24 months but we will truly deticate our lives to serving Gods children. Its doesn't have to be a big thing of going out and teaching the first discussion. But it can be small and simple things of just inviting your friends to come to your home for a dinner and allow them to feel the spirit in your home. The people that we teach that accept this message easier are those that have known members and have had good experiences with them. You never know the people you will affect just by being in there presence.
I really learned this Tuesday while we were visiting our less active Allysha who is 18 and has a baby. She has started coming back to church over the last month and really enjoys it. She is loved by
the ward and seems really happy to make changes in her life. She has facial piercings. tattoos, and the first time I saw her she was smoking. We hadn't taught her yet about the word of wisdom. But when
we were talking with her she said "I remember the first time I really talked to you sisters, you came up and I was smoking. I had a baby and had piercings and tattoos. But you both were so sweet to me and didn't seem phased by the way I was living life. I couldn't get over how official I must have looked to you and though I never felt judged by you I knew I needed to change. That was the last time I ever smoked." So I didn't know that but that means she has been about 2 months clean of smoking. I was shocked and so happy to hear the changes she has been making. She has also been reading the Book of Mormon, and knows she needs to take some of her piercings out. She has come to church multiples times and is working on going back to school and finding a job. She has the desire to change her life. Though we have said things that have helped her the real thing that
got her to change was our presence. Which we know as the spirit that we bring working through us to touch her. That is what you can do for those around you. You can change and affect people and never realize it. That is why it is so important to really think about every action or thing we do. Is it worth it, will it change the way people look at me, is this really representing Jesus Christ well? Because wether we like it our not everything we do affects the way people see this church.
Amanda is another investigator that I have just grown to love so much. Last Sunday she decided to give up smoking. I am please and proud to annouce she is a week clean. But we had a funny experience with her that really helped us actually help her in the end. Thursday we had a lesson with her. We brought our recent convert Emily with us. When Amanda opened the door she had an awkward smile and said "hey guys come on in". When I stepped inside I realized why. She was having a suprise inspection from her probation officers. There were four of them searching through her home and we just had to sit there awkwardly while they searched everything. After they left she laughed and said how embarrassed she was. But I already suspected that she was on probation by the things she had said in the past. It was great because now I could ask the questions I needed to ask and it wouldn't be as awkward. I found out what she had done and that she would be on probation til 2017 but she could get off sooner if she does everything she needs too. I knew that this ment we were going to not be able to allow her to be baptized on the 20th which she has really been working for. I didn't know how to break it to her or how to tell her. I told her I don't have all the answers but I was going to find out.
I was able to talk to the mission president about this, he is truly an inspired man that I have really grown to love. He counseled with me on things that I need to do and ask and the steps we need to
take to help Amanda progress towards baptism. He said to teach her about priesthood and how that its the first presidency that will need to approve her getting baptized. That they hold that proper priesthood authority and will pray specifically about her and ask God.
To be honest I was nervous to go back and to explain these things to her. I didn't want to hurt her feelings and tell her that its going to be a long process and that the first presidency has to approve her. So I prayed and prayed for a way that I could explain it to her to make sence. I didn't want it to be confusing or sound judgmental.
But we walked in and began talking; I felt a feeling to pull up a picture of Christ being baptized and talked about the importance of being fully repentant before being baptized and how it needs to be
done by the someone holding the priesthood. She stopped me and said that reminds me of a question. She asked how someone got the priesthood and other questions about it. I was so happy because that
led perfectly to what we had to teach her about her being able to be baptized.
After explaining it to her she looked at me and said "hum... I guess thats alright. I mean I feel like I am becoming repentant that God is forgiving me. So if this prophet and other men are really praying to God then they will get the same answer. So I am okay to wait and to work with them. I guess the extra time will just help me find out if all these things are true." I was so relieved and happy. She also bore her testimony about how much this gospel has changed her. She knows she was always a good person but wasn't always making the best choices. By meeting with us she has been able to do that. She now is becoming the person she always wanted to be. She never thought she could quit smoking. But she has and is determined to continue. She can't say that the church is true yet but she wants to. Shes been reading and is still waiting for her answer to know all these things true.
But now I need your prayers. Glenn is going to be getting baptized this Saturday. However, his health has taken a turn for the worst. He is literally on his death bed. He has kidney failure, now is
low on red blood cells, and has some sort of the flu. He can't really eat and is getting weaker everyday. His dying wish is to be baptized. I pray that he can make it there. I don't know how much longer he has on this earth but I know that he is doing good in Gods eyes because of his desires. He is so amazing and I just love his spirit and his willingness to keep fighting even though his entire body is giving up on him. I will keep you posted on him in the following week. I love you all and know that this is truly the lords work I am so blessed to be his servant and thankful for the opportunity he gives me to learn and grow.
LOVE Sister Johnson
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Letter from Sister Tiffany Johnson, July 1, 2014
I truly want to learn Spanish and really need to but that's going to have to be worked on after the mission. But here is the story of the week that made me want to learn Spanish even more. So remember the Spanish family we have been working with. I broke into here car and we teach the daughters and the elders come a different day to teach the mom. This week though we committed the girls to be baptized, the oldest is Vanessa she's amazing and only 13. She has been reading the
Book of Mormon praying, and the one time she came to church she talked about the great feeling she felt as she was passed the sacrament. The younger girls also love the lessons and loved church. They all really want to be baptized and want to go to church and all the church activities. But here's the catch, there mother knows zero English but she too loves the church and knows it's true. However, her boyfriend whom they live with and is the girls father is strong inactive catholic and won't even listen to the elders and won't let them go to church unless it's catholic.
So I called up the elders and begged them to go talk to Fabiola again to tell her what her daughters have felt and help her see the importance of being a family in this gospel and acting on the truths
they know. The elders called us back saying they didn't feel right going alone that we needed to be there to represent the girls and we would all talk to her. There fellowshipper also came. There we were all sitting around the table. The elder grajeda begins talking in Spanish and begins teaching her and explaining to her our purpose in the visit. I was able to understand about 60% of what was being said. He kept talking and sharing really good points. When all of a sudden I felt a poking feeling saying I needed to talk. I shushed it saying I don't fully understand what they are sayings, what if I repeat something already said, or if I say something and it's not even what she's concerned about. But he feeling wouldn't go away. I waited nervous to speak up. The I felt the impression to just open my mouth that the spirit will direct me as to what to say and when. So I did. The elder translated for me as I bore testimony to her the importance of these things and how she has two choices... To fear man or to fear God. That we are given trials to test our faith and can receive so many more blessing for acting in faith. That we all must make sacrifices for the things that are most important in life. I shared
how her and her daughters need this gospel and will truly be changed for the better by it. And then I noticed she and the elder were crying as I was speaking. After the lesson the elder told me what I said was exactly what they were talking about and was shared at the moment they needed to hear it. I knew it was he spirit and was glad I was able to help. But let me tell it was probably one of the most nerve racking experience I have had because I wasn't able to fully understand all that was happening. But I truly love that family and pray they can't receive the blessing of being apart of this gospel. Please keep Fabiola and her daughter in your prayers this week.
Saturday I had the opportunity to teach someone that really challenged me. Not because he wanted to bible bash but because he was from India and doesn't have a christen back ground. His fiancé is a
less active whom is coming back and she really wants him to be apart of the church. So we really have to break things down and explain more then I ever have before. For example, I asked him about the spirit and feelings he has. I asked if he ever felt joy... He said no. I asked love?... He said no... I then looked at this big Punjabby man would showed no emotions and finally said "that is not true." He looked at me startled. So I said how did you feel the first time you saw your son? Who did you see the first time you saw Dianna? He then thought about it and said "love" and I looked about him and said then yes you have felt the spirit. That is the feeling that god feels us with. Though we have hard times. Feel sad days, we all have moments of feeling love, joy, or peace. We just have to take a second a realize it, he realized it and has been to church 2 Sundays in a row. It's been good. It will be slow but we aren't giving up. So keep Andy in your prayers.
The last month we have worked hard at getting one of our recent converts and an investigator to go to girls camp. I know it could change there life and be a great bonding experience for hem. This
morning the left for camp. So please keep Emily and Lulu in your prayers. I pray it's an amazing experience for them.
Then with our other recent converts Marcos, Emily, and LuLu we got them a ride to the singles ward and got them there. It was great for them to see others in the same boat and age group as them. We want them to get connected so they can stay converted. It's really my goal to help them find a good support group. Exciting news for Emily who's a member of 2 months... She got into UVU and will be moving up there in august. So look out Utah a little spiritual giant is on her way.
Ok the report you all have been waiting for.... I went to the doctors today. He came in and looked at my finger and x-rays and said. Sister Johnson no matter what surgery you have and no matter who does it, it won't bend better than it does now. Having surgery for you won't help. It's be to long and it's not going to go back to the way it was. I can get it fused together but that can happen anytime so he said just wait til after your mission and you are older. He said just enjoy life and when it really starts hurting then fuse it together so it's like no joint at all. So there it is at least I am done seeing doctors for a while.
Well I love all of you and am really enjoying my mission and area. I love how busy we are. Thanks for your prayers and support.
Love always sister Johnson
Book of Mormon praying, and the one time she came to church she talked about the great feeling she felt as she was passed the sacrament. The younger girls also love the lessons and loved church. They all really want to be baptized and want to go to church and all the church activities. But here's the catch, there mother knows zero English but she too loves the church and knows it's true. However, her boyfriend whom they live with and is the girls father is strong inactive catholic and won't even listen to the elders and won't let them go to church unless it's catholic.
So I called up the elders and begged them to go talk to Fabiola again to tell her what her daughters have felt and help her see the importance of being a family in this gospel and acting on the truths
they know. The elders called us back saying they didn't feel right going alone that we needed to be there to represent the girls and we would all talk to her. There fellowshipper also came. There we were all sitting around the table. The elder grajeda begins talking in Spanish and begins teaching her and explaining to her our purpose in the visit. I was able to understand about 60% of what was being said. He kept talking and sharing really good points. When all of a sudden I felt a poking feeling saying I needed to talk. I shushed it saying I don't fully understand what they are sayings, what if I repeat something already said, or if I say something and it's not even what she's concerned about. But he feeling wouldn't go away. I waited nervous to speak up. The I felt the impression to just open my mouth that the spirit will direct me as to what to say and when. So I did. The elder translated for me as I bore testimony to her the importance of these things and how she has two choices... To fear man or to fear God. That we are given trials to test our faith and can receive so many more blessing for acting in faith. That we all must make sacrifices for the things that are most important in life. I shared
how her and her daughters need this gospel and will truly be changed for the better by it. And then I noticed she and the elder were crying as I was speaking. After the lesson the elder told me what I said was exactly what they were talking about and was shared at the moment they needed to hear it. I knew it was he spirit and was glad I was able to help. But let me tell it was probably one of the most nerve racking experience I have had because I wasn't able to fully understand all that was happening. But I truly love that family and pray they can't receive the blessing of being apart of this gospel. Please keep Fabiola and her daughter in your prayers this week.
Saturday I had the opportunity to teach someone that really challenged me. Not because he wanted to bible bash but because he was from India and doesn't have a christen back ground. His fiancé is a
less active whom is coming back and she really wants him to be apart of the church. So we really have to break things down and explain more then I ever have before. For example, I asked him about the spirit and feelings he has. I asked if he ever felt joy... He said no. I asked love?... He said no... I then looked at this big Punjabby man would showed no emotions and finally said "that is not true." He looked at me startled. So I said how did you feel the first time you saw your son? Who did you see the first time you saw Dianna? He then thought about it and said "love" and I looked about him and said then yes you have felt the spirit. That is the feeling that god feels us with. Though we have hard times. Feel sad days, we all have moments of feeling love, joy, or peace. We just have to take a second a realize it, he realized it and has been to church 2 Sundays in a row. It's been good. It will be slow but we aren't giving up. So keep Andy in your prayers.
The last month we have worked hard at getting one of our recent converts and an investigator to go to girls camp. I know it could change there life and be a great bonding experience for hem. This
morning the left for camp. So please keep Emily and Lulu in your prayers. I pray it's an amazing experience for them.
Then with our other recent converts Marcos, Emily, and LuLu we got them a ride to the singles ward and got them there. It was great for them to see others in the same boat and age group as them. We want them to get connected so they can stay converted. It's really my goal to help them find a good support group. Exciting news for Emily who's a member of 2 months... She got into UVU and will be moving up there in august. So look out Utah a little spiritual giant is on her way.
Ok the report you all have been waiting for.... I went to the doctors today. He came in and looked at my finger and x-rays and said. Sister Johnson no matter what surgery you have and no matter who does it, it won't bend better than it does now. Having surgery for you won't help. It's be to long and it's not going to go back to the way it was. I can get it fused together but that can happen anytime so he said just wait til after your mission and you are older. He said just enjoy life and when it really starts hurting then fuse it together so it's like no joint at all. So there it is at least I am done seeing doctors for a while.
Well I love all of you and am really enjoying my mission and area. I love how busy we are. Thanks for your prayers and support.
Love always sister Johnson
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
Letter from Sister Tiffany Johnson, June 23, 2014
Ever since we reset our goals to double digit numbers we have been busier than we have ever been. which at times doesn't seem possible. I don't know how we are able to fit it in but thanks to The Lord we are. We are blessed with a full schedule and then some. But that doesn't mean it's smooth sailing or easy. Satan is working over time as well and this week I felt it.
To start, Glen who was on date for this last Sunday but called us and said "girls we need to talk. " with the somber tone in his voice I knew a break up was in our future. We went to his home with the relief society president and asked what has been going on. Turns out him and his wife had been fighting non stop about his baptism she doesn't support his desire and is coming up with everything to complain about and pull him away. She then said that she doesn't want us coming over anymore that it isn't appropriate. She said she never wants to see us in her home again. Which is weird because she was so friendly and appreciative of us just a few days previous. But glen tried to explain that we always have a female adult present and that we literally just talk about the gospel around the table. He said he has grown to love us as his nieces but she wouldn't change. He almost broke into ties having to tell us this. He wants to be baptized to bad but his wife just won't support him. He had to push back his date and break up with us. Luckily there are elders in the ward they are Spanish elders but we felt it was better then no missionaries at all. Glen loves them and is happy to work with them just sad he can't visit with us any more. The worst part is we don't think he has much longer to live. He is
just physically breaking down in front of us. It's slow and painful so it just breaks my heart. I pray he can make it in to the waters of baptism and that the elders can give him the spiritual support he needs.
But Satan didn't stop there we were about to go to our next appointment when we received a call from Laura who too had a baptism date and felt in a prayer that the church was true. When we answered the phone she sounded weak and trembling. She proceeded to tell us that she was in a terrible car accident the night before. That she was hit by a drunk driver. She should have died in the accident but was able to walk away completely fine. She was scared and overwhelmed so she asked for us to reschedule for next week she needed to breathe and relax and just didn't want company. It was scary to know someone we know came so close to leaving us. I feel that she was saved for a
reason, that god needs her still on the earth. I know she needs to get baptized and do the work of her family. We feel that every time we are there. Please keep her in your prayers that she can come to the same conclusion and also be able to see the miracle that was just preformed in her life.
Gaby was originally set to be baptized but I refused to approve her for an interview. She really really wants to be baptized but is not ready. She doesn't have a testimony of latter day prophets and
still smokes a lot every day. I explained to her the importance of these things but she could not move passed the thought that Christ just wants us to be baptized. She doesn't think it needs to be in any
specific way or that she needs to be living a certain way. I will not allow herself to take on this great covenant with God if she is not ready to take on her end of the promise. She was offended that I said
no, that she needs to take some time and make some changes for her betterment. She felt judged and that we were following the counsel from man not god. I bore my testimony of these things that we are
messengers of God called to share his truth and help people come to follow him. It is now up to her to decided if she will earnestly pray for truth or just stubbornly stick with what she feels is right. But
for me I am immoveable. I know these things are true that this is the way that We have been taught to do these things. And I will do all that I can to help her but only by what the spirit directs me to do. I
will not bend to her. I fear my father in heaven not man. I love her and because of that I am bold and honest with her. She knows we love her and feels that love just hurt by being told not yet.
Satan being so powerful didn't stop there though. Marcos who was on date to be baptized this Sunday had his baptism interview Wednesday. But he didn't show up his normal ride was out of town and then an emergency with a friend came up. I was stressed about him being able to get his interview and wanted to make sure he was really prepared for his baptism. So we reschedule for the next day. Luckily he made it there. We met with him before the interview. I was impressed to share with him truth. That after his baptism and theses few days before will be full of trials that satan will work hard on him. We expressed the importance of enduring to the end. we shared that we must create a rock foundation on Christ so that we can not fail in the midst of these trials. We all felt the spirit so strong and he committed to push through and hold to the faith. Sunday rolled around and he showed up looking sharp and excited. However his fellowshipper sister elder pulled me aside and said that her husband wasn't with her because he woke up and didn't know anyone. I looked at
her and said I think he's having a stroke you need to be taking him to the hospital. She stayed for sacrament and then called her home and heard her husband was still confused and so she rushed off. However in the process she took Marcos white underclothes. So before the baptism we realized this. We were worried about brother elder and prayed for his safety and rushed around trying to find someone to bring white underwear. I was talking to a lady in the ward and she said" you with
him having a stroke and not having the right underwear you guys should just push his baptism back" right when she said that I felt an over whelming feeling come over me and say no it has to happen today. All the signs point that this is the right thing to do and that even brother elder would say not to wait for him. It was a trial, of our faith. Marcos knew this as well. What we had warned him of just a few days previous came through and he held his head up and said I am still getting baptized. I turned to the elder that was performing the baptism and said what do we do. He felt we should look in the closet were the baptism clothes are kept. We did and found a random male garment shorts that was his size. We looked at each other and I said "if we cut off the symbol isn't it not longer a sacred garment?" He looked at me and said I believe so. I prayed in my heart to know if that's what we should do. It felt a little sack religious but we were running out of options no one in the area had white underwear for him. So we talked to a few leaders and the said we should go with what we
had. So we did. Marcos never knew where we got the white short or what they were but they fit and he was baptized an hour after church. I can honestly say it was one of the most spiritual baptisms I had been too. When I finally got to see him in his whites I just knew he had done the right things and that God was supporting us. As we shared the restoration during the changing period the spirit was so powerful, in the room. Everyone there felt it and expressed how touching it was. We know we were tested, and Marcos remained strong. I pray he continues to do so.
Brother elders as of now is doing well he had a mild stroke and is happily back at home, glad to hear Marcos is baptized.
Helaman 5:12
I know that things happen for a reason, that when the road gets rough there must be a beautiful sunrise around the corner. Things are going great and it love being a missionary I feel my testimony
growing each day. It's so important to continue working on the basics of studying our scriptures, praying, and family home evenings. When we do these things we strengthen ourselves and protect ourselves/family from the adversary. But the truth is it won't eliminate the trials but it will allow them to be manageable. We will understand that God still loves us and are able to have the strength to over come. Never forget who you are. You are children of God with great worth. You can over come all things. We must do our part though.
I love you all and so happy to call you all my friends and family.
Love sister Johnson
Update on the finger: this doctors office is frustrating I called and told them that I broke my phone and they needed to save my new number. But they didn't so when my doctor got called for an emergency surgery they couldn't get ahold of me to change my appointment. So we drove the 2 hours to show up and have them tell us he isn't there to meet me. So I begged for my X-rays to at least be done. That was done and then they said I could meet another doctor. So we waited for about 4
hours and went in. The doctor took one look at my finger and said he can't help me. He didn't know why they made me wait. So now I have to come back next week and meet the guy so I can plan the surgery. Sorry this is really late I literally just got home and am so sick of being
in the car.
To start, Glen who was on date for this last Sunday but called us and said "girls we need to talk. " with the somber tone in his voice I knew a break up was in our future. We went to his home with the relief society president and asked what has been going on. Turns out him and his wife had been fighting non stop about his baptism she doesn't support his desire and is coming up with everything to complain about and pull him away. She then said that she doesn't want us coming over anymore that it isn't appropriate. She said she never wants to see us in her home again. Which is weird because she was so friendly and appreciative of us just a few days previous. But glen tried to explain that we always have a female adult present and that we literally just talk about the gospel around the table. He said he has grown to love us as his nieces but she wouldn't change. He almost broke into ties having to tell us this. He wants to be baptized to bad but his wife just won't support him. He had to push back his date and break up with us. Luckily there are elders in the ward they are Spanish elders but we felt it was better then no missionaries at all. Glen loves them and is happy to work with them just sad he can't visit with us any more. The worst part is we don't think he has much longer to live. He is
just physically breaking down in front of us. It's slow and painful so it just breaks my heart. I pray he can make it in to the waters of baptism and that the elders can give him the spiritual support he needs.
But Satan didn't stop there we were about to go to our next appointment when we received a call from Laura who too had a baptism date and felt in a prayer that the church was true. When we answered the phone she sounded weak and trembling. She proceeded to tell us that she was in a terrible car accident the night before. That she was hit by a drunk driver. She should have died in the accident but was able to walk away completely fine. She was scared and overwhelmed so she asked for us to reschedule for next week she needed to breathe and relax and just didn't want company. It was scary to know someone we know came so close to leaving us. I feel that she was saved for a
reason, that god needs her still on the earth. I know she needs to get baptized and do the work of her family. We feel that every time we are there. Please keep her in your prayers that she can come to the same conclusion and also be able to see the miracle that was just preformed in her life.
Gaby was originally set to be baptized but I refused to approve her for an interview. She really really wants to be baptized but is not ready. She doesn't have a testimony of latter day prophets and
still smokes a lot every day. I explained to her the importance of these things but she could not move passed the thought that Christ just wants us to be baptized. She doesn't think it needs to be in any
specific way or that she needs to be living a certain way. I will not allow herself to take on this great covenant with God if she is not ready to take on her end of the promise. She was offended that I said
no, that she needs to take some time and make some changes for her betterment. She felt judged and that we were following the counsel from man not god. I bore my testimony of these things that we are
messengers of God called to share his truth and help people come to follow him. It is now up to her to decided if she will earnestly pray for truth or just stubbornly stick with what she feels is right. But
for me I am immoveable. I know these things are true that this is the way that We have been taught to do these things. And I will do all that I can to help her but only by what the spirit directs me to do. I
will not bend to her. I fear my father in heaven not man. I love her and because of that I am bold and honest with her. She knows we love her and feels that love just hurt by being told not yet.
Satan being so powerful didn't stop there though. Marcos who was on date to be baptized this Sunday had his baptism interview Wednesday. But he didn't show up his normal ride was out of town and then an emergency with a friend came up. I was stressed about him being able to get his interview and wanted to make sure he was really prepared for his baptism. So we reschedule for the next day. Luckily he made it there. We met with him before the interview. I was impressed to share with him truth. That after his baptism and theses few days before will be full of trials that satan will work hard on him. We expressed the importance of enduring to the end. we shared that we must create a rock foundation on Christ so that we can not fail in the midst of these trials. We all felt the spirit so strong and he committed to push through and hold to the faith. Sunday rolled around and he showed up looking sharp and excited. However his fellowshipper sister elder pulled me aside and said that her husband wasn't with her because he woke up and didn't know anyone. I looked at
her and said I think he's having a stroke you need to be taking him to the hospital. She stayed for sacrament and then called her home and heard her husband was still confused and so she rushed off. However in the process she took Marcos white underclothes. So before the baptism we realized this. We were worried about brother elder and prayed for his safety and rushed around trying to find someone to bring white underwear. I was talking to a lady in the ward and she said" you with
him having a stroke and not having the right underwear you guys should just push his baptism back" right when she said that I felt an over whelming feeling come over me and say no it has to happen today. All the signs point that this is the right thing to do and that even brother elder would say not to wait for him. It was a trial, of our faith. Marcos knew this as well. What we had warned him of just a few days previous came through and he held his head up and said I am still getting baptized. I turned to the elder that was performing the baptism and said what do we do. He felt we should look in the closet were the baptism clothes are kept. We did and found a random male garment shorts that was his size. We looked at each other and I said "if we cut off the symbol isn't it not longer a sacred garment?" He looked at me and said I believe so. I prayed in my heart to know if that's what we should do. It felt a little sack religious but we were running out of options no one in the area had white underwear for him. So we talked to a few leaders and the said we should go with what we
had. So we did. Marcos never knew where we got the white short or what they were but they fit and he was baptized an hour after church. I can honestly say it was one of the most spiritual baptisms I had been too. When I finally got to see him in his whites I just knew he had done the right things and that God was supporting us. As we shared the restoration during the changing period the spirit was so powerful, in the room. Everyone there felt it and expressed how touching it was. We know we were tested, and Marcos remained strong. I pray he continues to do so.
Brother elders as of now is doing well he had a mild stroke and is happily back at home, glad to hear Marcos is baptized.
Helaman 5:12
I know that things happen for a reason, that when the road gets rough there must be a beautiful sunrise around the corner. Things are going great and it love being a missionary I feel my testimony
growing each day. It's so important to continue working on the basics of studying our scriptures, praying, and family home evenings. When we do these things we strengthen ourselves and protect ourselves/family from the adversary. But the truth is it won't eliminate the trials but it will allow them to be manageable. We will understand that God still loves us and are able to have the strength to over come. Never forget who you are. You are children of God with great worth. You can over come all things. We must do our part though.
I love you all and so happy to call you all my friends and family.
Love sister Johnson
Update on the finger: this doctors office is frustrating I called and told them that I broke my phone and they needed to save my new number. But they didn't so when my doctor got called for an emergency surgery they couldn't get ahold of me to change my appointment. So we drove the 2 hours to show up and have them tell us he isn't there to meet me. So I begged for my X-rays to at least be done. That was done and then they said I could meet another doctor. So we waited for about 4
hours and went in. The doctor took one look at my finger and said he can't help me. He didn't know why they made me wait. So now I have to come back next week and meet the guy so I can plan the surgery. Sorry this is really late I literally just got home and am so sick of being
in the car.
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Letter from Sister Tiffany Johnson June 9, 2014
Well to start I'll share with you the trial that happened at the
beginning of the week. We were at the church using the internet to
update lessons. I had to use the bathroom so I slipped the phone into
my cardigan pocket and went. When I got up to flush the toilet I
leaned just a little to forward and my phone came toppling out and
crashed landed inside the toilet right at the moment I flushed. It was
sucked up into the pipe opening. I with my cat like reflexes threw my
hand in there and down the pipe and happened to catch it before it had
gotten to far. My broken finger happened to be bent in such a way that
it could scoot the phone out. (There's onw benefit of my finger still
not being fixed) I washed my hands about a thousand times and began
praying. We got home and there was no rice in our cupboards to dry the
phone out with. So we went to our neighbors, none of them had rice.
What is wrong with people. But then I remember an active member lives
right behind us. I knew she would have some. We were able to get rice
from her and left our phone in the rice for 24 hours in hopes it would
dry. It was a long day spent trying to get our oil changed in redding
with out a phone. It just seemed like one of those days that nothing
went right.
The next morning I got ready for the day and then grabbed my rice
bag phone and began to pray. I prayed for the miracle that our phone
could be fixed so that we can continue to help his children in this
area. I felt like it had to work we needed it to do the work
efficiently. So I then reassembled the phone said another quick prayer
and hit the power button. Nothing. I thought maybe I didn't hit it
hard enough. Still nothing. Maybe I should hit the button
repetitively, nothing. Then a thought popped into my mind. Maybe the
battery is dead. So I ran and put it on the charger. After study's I
went to check on my phone feeling spiritual up lifted and confident. I
went to turn it on but my phone was super hot to the touch. Than I
looked at the screen and it was completely fogged up and steaming. I
believed I totally fried it. I was upset with myself knowing that this
was going to make thing very difficult and stressful. But the work has
to go on. So we set off for work with no phone. Everyone appointment
we had or member we ran into asked why we didn't respond or something
about the phone. I had to reply with what happened. They would laugh
and tease me. I quickly realized I had two options I could be
embarrassed and allow it to hurt my feelings or just join in on the
the jokes and laughter. I chose the latter. It was still frustrating
that we couldn't call people or get our messages but getting upset
wasn't going to help.
My companion and I decided there had to be something good come
out of this trial. So we prayed to find out what. We knew god could
have easily fixed my phone but he didn't and we were determined to
find out why. Tuesday evening we had a lesson with Laura who has a
testimony of the church but is scared to make the change. She is also
sweet but very timid and reserved. When I had to explain to her why I
couldn't call her she broke out into laughter. I had never seen her
genuinely laugh or smile so big. I was in shock. After the lesson I
sat in the car feeling completely happy seeing Laura laugh.
My companion and I decided that was worth losing our phone. It was a
beautiful sight and the spirit was so strong after hearing her laugh.
But knowing Our father in heaven there has to be multiple reasons why
this happened to our phone so hear our some more reasons we came up
with: it was a great conversations starter that broke the ice, it made
the entire ward laugh, people tried to help and give us there phone,
we became more appreciative of the phone and modern day confidences we
have, we were able to miss out on hearing a nasty voice mail that a
man had left on our phone and I am sure many more. Though it was a
challenging week going with out our phone. It taught me a lot. I loved
getting to come up with new jokes about our situations and hearing the
jokes the people we work with came up with. I feel even more loved by
them though they know I am imperfect and a blonde. The trial still
continues as we still don't have our phone back but we at least have a
phone from the mission off that we are borrowing.
Life is short and we are going to continually have lemons
thrown at us. It's up to us what we are going to do with them, I
intend on making lemonade and enjoying the blessing to follow.
To update you on the work... Things are still going great up
here. Marcos ended up pushing back his date to the 22nd which was
truly for the best. I have learned that it's not about pushing people
into the font but about preparing them to take this first step closer
to God. Helping them understand the importance of these things and how
it is a life long process. Marcos is figuring that out and finally
applying the lesson to his life. He finally started reading the Book
of Mormon and loves it. He comes to church and comments in class. When
he walks down the hall now it is with a new found confidence that he
knows he belongs there. He is on top of the world and happy to be
there. The ward loves him because he is so friendly and genuinely
sweet. I have always liked working with him because he is respectful.
However this week in our lesson I actually learned about his past and
have a huge respect for him and what he's gone through. Turns out he
was abandoned by his parents at a really young age and lived on the
streets he resorted to steeling and doing things he internally felt
wrong about. He was living in San Rosa and had bad influences around
him. But for some reason that never spoiled him. When we teach him I
have never heard him complain, he is the first one to step up to help
with what ever anyone needs, he is also appreciative of any kindness
shown to him. And when he shared his store it wasn't to gain pity but
to say I am not worthy of baptism. I was touched by his strength. He
had full right to be angry at the world and at God and yet didn't. His
"father" figure just passed away a few months ago and what did he do,
he turned to God. He asked us how he can make right the wrongs in his
past. How does he apologizes for the people he never met that he stole
from. I thought about it and said by completely changing your ways
now. Turning to go and repenting of those thing and then go out and
help other do the same. Be an example to those around you, stand as a
witness to God. To me Marcos is an example of a man who is an expert
at making lemonade out of all his lemons. He is pleased to announce he
will be baptized in 2 weeks.
Glenn is also excited to be able to show his faith to God
and be baptized as well. Though Glenn and Marcos don't really know
each other just stories about each other they are excited to share the
date with one another. Glenn just returned home from vacation his
health is still going down but he continues to push through and stay
positive. He knows he doesn't have much time on the earth but what is
most important is that he makes the most of what he's got left. He
made his wife listen to the Book of Mormon on the way to Idaho and she
listened. she is starting to soften towards us and maybe will start
letting us teacher her. She helped Glenn understand some of the verse
and he said she comprehends it pretty well. I am just happy that he is
doing well and his faith is staying strong. This coming baptism will
be truly a special time. I feel truly honored to be apart of there
conversion story, I have been humbled by there stories.
So now you can see how can I have any room to complain
about not having a phone when I have great men of God who have and are
going through a lot more than that and ar choosing to being
optimistic. I know they feel like I was called here to teach them but
I know the truth, I was called hear to be taught by them. I am
thankful for this, that I am able to be an instrument in The Lords
hand. To be able to receive the blessing of having great faithful
people to call my friends.
Love sister Johnson.
Sent from my iPad
beginning of the week. We were at the church using the internet to
update lessons. I had to use the bathroom so I slipped the phone into
my cardigan pocket and went. When I got up to flush the toilet I
leaned just a little to forward and my phone came toppling out and
crashed landed inside the toilet right at the moment I flushed. It was
sucked up into the pipe opening. I with my cat like reflexes threw my
hand in there and down the pipe and happened to catch it before it had
gotten to far. My broken finger happened to be bent in such a way that
it could scoot the phone out. (There's onw benefit of my finger still
not being fixed) I washed my hands about a thousand times and began
praying. We got home and there was no rice in our cupboards to dry the
phone out with. So we went to our neighbors, none of them had rice.
What is wrong with people. But then I remember an active member lives
right behind us. I knew she would have some. We were able to get rice
from her and left our phone in the rice for 24 hours in hopes it would
dry. It was a long day spent trying to get our oil changed in redding
with out a phone. It just seemed like one of those days that nothing
went right.
The next morning I got ready for the day and then grabbed my rice
bag phone and began to pray. I prayed for the miracle that our phone
could be fixed so that we can continue to help his children in this
area. I felt like it had to work we needed it to do the work
efficiently. So I then reassembled the phone said another quick prayer
and hit the power button. Nothing. I thought maybe I didn't hit it
hard enough. Still nothing. Maybe I should hit the button
repetitively, nothing. Then a thought popped into my mind. Maybe the
battery is dead. So I ran and put it on the charger. After study's I
went to check on my phone feeling spiritual up lifted and confident. I
went to turn it on but my phone was super hot to the touch. Than I
looked at the screen and it was completely fogged up and steaming. I
believed I totally fried it. I was upset with myself knowing that this
was going to make thing very difficult and stressful. But the work has
to go on. So we set off for work with no phone. Everyone appointment
we had or member we ran into asked why we didn't respond or something
about the phone. I had to reply with what happened. They would laugh
and tease me. I quickly realized I had two options I could be
embarrassed and allow it to hurt my feelings or just join in on the
the jokes and laughter. I chose the latter. It was still frustrating
that we couldn't call people or get our messages but getting upset
wasn't going to help.
My companion and I decided there had to be something good come
out of this trial. So we prayed to find out what. We knew god could
have easily fixed my phone but he didn't and we were determined to
find out why. Tuesday evening we had a lesson with Laura who has a
testimony of the church but is scared to make the change. She is also
sweet but very timid and reserved. When I had to explain to her why I
couldn't call her she broke out into laughter. I had never seen her
genuinely laugh or smile so big. I was in shock. After the lesson I
sat in the car feeling completely happy seeing Laura laugh.
My companion and I decided that was worth losing our phone. It was a
beautiful sight and the spirit was so strong after hearing her laugh.
But knowing Our father in heaven there has to be multiple reasons why
this happened to our phone so hear our some more reasons we came up
with: it was a great conversations starter that broke the ice, it made
the entire ward laugh, people tried to help and give us there phone,
we became more appreciative of the phone and modern day confidences we
have, we were able to miss out on hearing a nasty voice mail that a
man had left on our phone and I am sure many more. Though it was a
challenging week going with out our phone. It taught me a lot. I loved
getting to come up with new jokes about our situations and hearing the
jokes the people we work with came up with. I feel even more loved by
them though they know I am imperfect and a blonde. The trial still
continues as we still don't have our phone back but we at least have a
phone from the mission off that we are borrowing.
Life is short and we are going to continually have lemons
thrown at us. It's up to us what we are going to do with them, I
intend on making lemonade and enjoying the blessing to follow.
To update you on the work... Things are still going great up
here. Marcos ended up pushing back his date to the 22nd which was
truly for the best. I have learned that it's not about pushing people
into the font but about preparing them to take this first step closer
to God. Helping them understand the importance of these things and how
it is a life long process. Marcos is figuring that out and finally
applying the lesson to his life. He finally started reading the Book
of Mormon and loves it. He comes to church and comments in class. When
he walks down the hall now it is with a new found confidence that he
knows he belongs there. He is on top of the world and happy to be
there. The ward loves him because he is so friendly and genuinely
sweet. I have always liked working with him because he is respectful.
However this week in our lesson I actually learned about his past and
have a huge respect for him and what he's gone through. Turns out he
was abandoned by his parents at a really young age and lived on the
streets he resorted to steeling and doing things he internally felt
wrong about. He was living in San Rosa and had bad influences around
him. But for some reason that never spoiled him. When we teach him I
have never heard him complain, he is the first one to step up to help
with what ever anyone needs, he is also appreciative of any kindness
shown to him. And when he shared his store it wasn't to gain pity but
to say I am not worthy of baptism. I was touched by his strength. He
had full right to be angry at the world and at God and yet didn't. His
"father" figure just passed away a few months ago and what did he do,
he turned to God. He asked us how he can make right the wrongs in his
past. How does he apologizes for the people he never met that he stole
from. I thought about it and said by completely changing your ways
now. Turning to go and repenting of those thing and then go out and
help other do the same. Be an example to those around you, stand as a
witness to God. To me Marcos is an example of a man who is an expert
at making lemonade out of all his lemons. He is pleased to announce he
will be baptized in 2 weeks.
Glenn is also excited to be able to show his faith to God
and be baptized as well. Though Glenn and Marcos don't really know
each other just stories about each other they are excited to share the
date with one another. Glenn just returned home from vacation his
health is still going down but he continues to push through and stay
positive. He knows he doesn't have much time on the earth but what is
most important is that he makes the most of what he's got left. He
made his wife listen to the Book of Mormon on the way to Idaho and she
listened. she is starting to soften towards us and maybe will start
letting us teacher her. She helped Glenn understand some of the verse
and he said she comprehends it pretty well. I am just happy that he is
doing well and his faith is staying strong. This coming baptism will
be truly a special time. I feel truly honored to be apart of there
conversion story, I have been humbled by there stories.
So now you can see how can I have any room to complain
about not having a phone when I have great men of God who have and are
going through a lot more than that and ar choosing to being
optimistic. I know they feel like I was called here to teach them but
I know the truth, I was called hear to be taught by them. I am
thankful for this, that I am able to be an instrument in The Lords
hand. To be able to receive the blessing of having great faithful
people to call my friends.
Love sister Johnson.
Sent from my iPad
Thursday, June 12, 2014
Katelyn Jean Johnston
Katelyn Jean Johnston
daughter of Rebecca & Eldon Johnston
born Wednesday, June 11, 2014 at 4:29 a.m.
weighing 3.05 pounds 15 1/2 inches long
Katelyn Jean Johnston was born at only 29 weeks (40 weeks is full term) on Wednesday, June 11, 2014. At 20 weeks, through an ultra sound, it was discovered that Katelyn had a heart defect so because of this, she was life flighted to Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City shortly afterwards.
Katelyn was also coming breech so Rebecca delivered by emergency caesarean. Rebecca is doing well and will probably be released on Sunday. She is looking forward to seeing her baby girl in person.
Katelyn is actually doing very well considering her early arrival but will be facing surgery shortly to have a ring placed around her pulmonary artery to slow down the flow of blood (hopefully I explained this correctly).
We congratulate Rebecca & Eldon on the arrival of their baby girl and wish them the very best!!!
I will post updates as I receive them.
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Letter from Sister Tiffany Johnson May 19, 2014
Well to start off I guess I will inform you on the latest hot topic at church. The talk of the town is me and my having to have surgery. I went to see an orthopedic specialist this last week he refused to work on me saying the surgery I need was very difficult and could only be down but a few people in the area that he knows of. So I had to call my mission president and I was approved to see a doctor in
Roseville. My relief society president heard this and sent out a mass email to the entire ward saying pray for sister Johnson. She is soon going in for surgery. Also pray that if God allows it she can stay in the area.
So that took off like wild fire. Everyone was coming up expressing there concern and love. Some didn't understand the email well and thought I was having to go home and end my mission. Some
people are a little dramatic but it was sweet to hear all of there love and concern.
However, this week was very eventful. First off it was zone conference. We got together with 3 zones and were taught by our leaders. It was a spiritual experience and I loved hearing the departing
testimonies. But knowing me something had to happen to create a scene. After our break we were herded back into the chapel. Following like a sheep I walked with the group. Than I realized I left my companion in the bathroom, she was doing makeup and I run in saying come on the meetings starting. We both came running out of the bathroom to find that not only where the door shuts but locked. We ran to the other side and they too where locked. I started to feel like we were living
the parable of the 10 Virgins. We were obviously the ones not prepared. But than my companion luckily had the phone so we texted the elders from our ward to come open the door for us. They did and we had to do the walk of shame all the way to the front row of the chapel.
After the meeting my companion ran up and grabbed our keys from the pile of keys. She handed them to me and we were off. We drove the hour ride home and when I got out of the car I looked down at my keys and saw Toyota keys. I wondered who put extra keys on mine. Then I pulled them and realized they had been connected by a magnet. I instantly realized that I had just stolen a set of missionaries keys and left them stranded in redding. I began making phone calls trying to find someone to help. I got a hold of President Paulson who is a counselor and he said he would pick up the keys from us and return them. So we decided to meet up at McDonalds. When we showed up I
looked in the back of the car and there was my trainer shaking her head at me and laughing. I was like man this is really embarrassing. She made fun of me and then I was shocked to see that she went to eat at McDonald because she hates that place. But when she went to the door I saw her talking to some one while we headed off to work. I later got a call from her telling us that she ran into one of there old investigators who now moved to Corning. She was working at McDonalds and would like to meet with missionaries again. It was a miracle. Maybe we were supposed to steal someone's keys, totally take over my trainers plans so they had to eat in Corning so that they could find Evelyn. We are now trying to get in contact with her and we will keep you posted. But it definitely made me feel better about the situation.
That next day though I woke up super sick. I couldn't sleep through the night because I was so congested and couldn't breath. I had a massive head ache and had to constantly blow my nose. But I
really felt like we had to work that day. That there were people we had to see. We said a companion prayer about who of all our investigators we should see. My companion was only going to let me
visit two people. So we decided to see Gabby and Marcos. Before going into Gabby's home I told my companion we need to set a date with Gabby to be baptized. She agreed so we said a prayer to know when. We narrowed it down between the 8th or 15th of June. So we went into her home and I couldn't breath with all the smoke in the air and I felt like I was going to pass out. But we continued teaching and extended the baptism invitation she said she wants to be a baptized but doesn't know if everyone needs to be baptized ect. She started asking all the questions.when I felt the impression to just leave her with reading assignments and commit her to pray about these things. She said knowing that she would do better studying these things out on her own. Later that day I received an email from her saying. " I don't know if I ever really answered your question this morning. But I know I need
to be baptized and I will. I know that god loves me and has been looking out for me. I will make it a goal to quiet smoking and will all that I can to prepare for that baptism date. Please pick a date
around the fifteenth and I will set that my goal." We wrote back telling her about our prayer and the dates we felt and she replied saying thank you and agreed to set that as a date.
The second person we decided to visit was Marcos, he came to church last week and was really great about asking questions and is really wanting to learn. So I knew we needed to see him too and set a date. So we went to a members home and he met us there. We had a great lesson and he accepted the baptism invitation for the 8th of June. The spirit was really strong there even though I felt physically awful.
Earlier that week we visited Laura who has been meeting with us for about 5 weeks. She has ancestors that were pioneers and is friends with a member. She reads the Book of Mormon every night and likes it. She just hasn't been to church yet. We knew we needed to invited her to be baptized with a date though because in the past we just did soft commitments with her. So we extended the invitation and she said YES as well. Setting the date for June 1st. She has to come to church every week between now and then. The only hold up was wanting to tell her kids (who are adults) what she was doing and get there permission/support. So Sunday rolled around and Laura walked into church obviously nervous but happy. She was warmly welcomed. Gabby and Marcos also attended. It was such a relief to see how dedicated each of these individuals are. They each have there trail they are trying to over come but have the faith to come. I love them and feel so blessed to be able to work with them. They make all the rejections and rough days worth it.
At the end of church Gabby expressed how spiritual of an experience it was and how apart she feels with everything. She said she is determined to get baptized. Marcos also had a great experience
and is loved by the ward. Laura though at the end almost began crying, I looked over at her and asked how she felt. She opened up and said. My family is catholic. They died in that belief. If I get baptized
where does that put me after this life. Will I never get to be with them? She looked scared and said that is her only thing holding her back from baptism. Not wanting to go to much into it in front of the
ward I told her that this gospel is all about blessing the family and bringing them together and that we will talk about that at our next appointment. She smiled and said ok. So keep her in your prayers this
week that she can feel ok will proceeding and understand that this is the way to bring her family together forever. That she can receive the revelation she needs to keep on the path that she is on.
Though I am still sick and can hardly breath I am over flowing with love and excitement for my area. I pray that I can stay and witness all of these individuals baptisms. June is going to
hopefully be a very special month for us. I pray that we can prepare these people and help them become truly converted to this Gospel.
I love each of you and pray all is well.
Love sister Johnson
Roseville. My relief society president heard this and sent out a mass email to the entire ward saying pray for sister Johnson. She is soon going in for surgery. Also pray that if God allows it she can stay in the area.
So that took off like wild fire. Everyone was coming up expressing there concern and love. Some didn't understand the email well and thought I was having to go home and end my mission. Some
people are a little dramatic but it was sweet to hear all of there love and concern.
However, this week was very eventful. First off it was zone conference. We got together with 3 zones and were taught by our leaders. It was a spiritual experience and I loved hearing the departing
testimonies. But knowing me something had to happen to create a scene. After our break we were herded back into the chapel. Following like a sheep I walked with the group. Than I realized I left my companion in the bathroom, she was doing makeup and I run in saying come on the meetings starting. We both came running out of the bathroom to find that not only where the door shuts but locked. We ran to the other side and they too where locked. I started to feel like we were living
the parable of the 10 Virgins. We were obviously the ones not prepared. But than my companion luckily had the phone so we texted the elders from our ward to come open the door for us. They did and we had to do the walk of shame all the way to the front row of the chapel.
After the meeting my companion ran up and grabbed our keys from the pile of keys. She handed them to me and we were off. We drove the hour ride home and when I got out of the car I looked down at my keys and saw Toyota keys. I wondered who put extra keys on mine. Then I pulled them and realized they had been connected by a magnet. I instantly realized that I had just stolen a set of missionaries keys and left them stranded in redding. I began making phone calls trying to find someone to help. I got a hold of President Paulson who is a counselor and he said he would pick up the keys from us and return them. So we decided to meet up at McDonalds. When we showed up I
looked in the back of the car and there was my trainer shaking her head at me and laughing. I was like man this is really embarrassing. She made fun of me and then I was shocked to see that she went to eat at McDonald because she hates that place. But when she went to the door I saw her talking to some one while we headed off to work. I later got a call from her telling us that she ran into one of there old investigators who now moved to Corning. She was working at McDonalds and would like to meet with missionaries again. It was a miracle. Maybe we were supposed to steal someone's keys, totally take over my trainers plans so they had to eat in Corning so that they could find Evelyn. We are now trying to get in contact with her and we will keep you posted. But it definitely made me feel better about the situation.
That next day though I woke up super sick. I couldn't sleep through the night because I was so congested and couldn't breath. I had a massive head ache and had to constantly blow my nose. But I
really felt like we had to work that day. That there were people we had to see. We said a companion prayer about who of all our investigators we should see. My companion was only going to let me
visit two people. So we decided to see Gabby and Marcos. Before going into Gabby's home I told my companion we need to set a date with Gabby to be baptized. She agreed so we said a prayer to know when. We narrowed it down between the 8th or 15th of June. So we went into her home and I couldn't breath with all the smoke in the air and I felt like I was going to pass out. But we continued teaching and extended the baptism invitation she said she wants to be a baptized but doesn't know if everyone needs to be baptized ect. She started asking all the questions.when I felt the impression to just leave her with reading assignments and commit her to pray about these things. She said knowing that she would do better studying these things out on her own. Later that day I received an email from her saying. " I don't know if I ever really answered your question this morning. But I know I need
to be baptized and I will. I know that god loves me and has been looking out for me. I will make it a goal to quiet smoking and will all that I can to prepare for that baptism date. Please pick a date
around the fifteenth and I will set that my goal." We wrote back telling her about our prayer and the dates we felt and she replied saying thank you and agreed to set that as a date.
The second person we decided to visit was Marcos, he came to church last week and was really great about asking questions and is really wanting to learn. So I knew we needed to see him too and set a date. So we went to a members home and he met us there. We had a great lesson and he accepted the baptism invitation for the 8th of June. The spirit was really strong there even though I felt physically awful.
Earlier that week we visited Laura who has been meeting with us for about 5 weeks. She has ancestors that were pioneers and is friends with a member. She reads the Book of Mormon every night and likes it. She just hasn't been to church yet. We knew we needed to invited her to be baptized with a date though because in the past we just did soft commitments with her. So we extended the invitation and she said YES as well. Setting the date for June 1st. She has to come to church every week between now and then. The only hold up was wanting to tell her kids (who are adults) what she was doing and get there permission/support. So Sunday rolled around and Laura walked into church obviously nervous but happy. She was warmly welcomed. Gabby and Marcos also attended. It was such a relief to see how dedicated each of these individuals are. They each have there trail they are trying to over come but have the faith to come. I love them and feel so blessed to be able to work with them. They make all the rejections and rough days worth it.
At the end of church Gabby expressed how spiritual of an experience it was and how apart she feels with everything. She said she is determined to get baptized. Marcos also had a great experience
and is loved by the ward. Laura though at the end almost began crying, I looked over at her and asked how she felt. She opened up and said. My family is catholic. They died in that belief. If I get baptized
where does that put me after this life. Will I never get to be with them? She looked scared and said that is her only thing holding her back from baptism. Not wanting to go to much into it in front of the
ward I told her that this gospel is all about blessing the family and bringing them together and that we will talk about that at our next appointment. She smiled and said ok. So keep her in your prayers this
week that she can feel ok will proceeding and understand that this is the way to bring her family together forever. That she can receive the revelation she needs to keep on the path that she is on.
Though I am still sick and can hardly breath I am over flowing with love and excitement for my area. I pray that I can stay and witness all of these individuals baptisms. June is going to
hopefully be a very special month for us. I pray that we can prepare these people and help them become truly converted to this Gospel.
I love each of you and pray all is well.
Love sister Johnson
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