At ito ay nangyari na...

So I realize that in the past I kind of just surprise you with a baptism. I don't tell you much about the people who have Baptismal Goal dates until the day of their baptism. I don't know why that has been. Maybe because sometimes they don't go through and I don't want to get your hopes up. I don't know.

But now I want to let you in on the suspense. So you can rejoice/remorse with me. I want to tell you now about Rhea and Anna Rose. This is their story (so far)

Once upon a time me and my companion were walking down the street. We happened to be walking the same direction as a man. We'll call him John (because that's his name). As we walked we talked. He said he would be okay if me and Sister Sarto come and taught him. He told us how to find his house and then we said goodbye. Less than a week later we went to find him and his house, hoping that he was actually serious. We found him and the compound of houses where he lives. Since we are not allowed to teach single men alone inside, we had to teach him outside. Where we taught him, we were joined by about 12 kids (his nieces and nephews). It was an okay lesson, but we weren't sure if he would actually progress or not. Nevertheless we came back about a week later. John was not there, but the crowd of kids was. They wanted us to teach them but we explained we couldn't unless they had parents there. One girl, Rhea was able to convenience her parents to join us for a lesson at their house. We were amazed to see they already had a Book of Mormon in their house (someone else who had gotten it from missionaries had given it to them). The lesson went well and we were excited to come back. 

The next week we learned that Rhea had wanted to come to church, but she had just forgotten what time church started. We fixed that problem. The next week John (who we hadn't been able to teach again) and Rhea and some of her cousins came to church. We were so excited. One of those cousins was 15 year old Anna Rose. (P.S. Rhea is just 8).

To make a long story shorter Anna Rose and Rhea have come to church for the last four weeks in a row. They also come with with several of their young cousins and siblings. Their parents haven't been to church yet, and we haven't seen John since the first time he came to church. 

They came to the baptism we had after church last week. When we asked them if they wanted to be baptized, their faces lit up and they said yes.

We have been encouraging them to pray and ask God in order to know that the things we have been teaching are true. Anna Rose has felt like she has had an answer ("a warm feeling in my heart") We are helping her prepare to be baptized on Oct. 12. 

It's a little more complicated with Rhea because she is still so young. We really need to work with her parents before any big steps can be made with her. 

Welp, I'm out of time for now. The story will be continued.

Thanks for taking the time to read :)

Love,

Sister Abish "I love Anna Rose and Rhea" Curtis

Picture:

From our service project

A Fantastic Sunday

Do you remember a couple weeks ago when I said I played the piano at church for Sacrament Meeting? Well, I have actually played for Sacrament Meeting every Sunday since then. As I was playing this week I reflected on these things:

-The whole reason I started learning piano is so I could play Hymns. 

-I dreamed that someday I would be called as a missionary to a far away place and they would need my piano skills. 

-I am living my dream.

-The Lord blesses our righteous desires. 

Sister Sarto and I were asked to be the speakers on Sunday. I talked about why the Restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is important. I give you as sample of one of the points I made (don't worry, I'll translate it into English for you):

You might have realized, that I am not a Filipino. I am from America. But while I am here in the Philippines I need to follow the laws of the Philippines. But when I go home, the laws of the Philippines will have no power over me.

You might have realized, but we are not from here on Earth. We are from Heaven. But while we are here on Earth we need to follow the laws of the World. But when we return to Heaven, the laws of the World will have no power over us. 

Because we have a loving Heavenly Father he has given us His Priesthood, or power and authority. With this Priesthood the important ordinances that we perform here on earth will be valid in Heaven. Ordinances such as baptism and marriage. 

God has given this Priesthood authority to His children throughout history through His prophets (Adam, Noah, Moses and dozens of other prophets found in the scriptures). God has again called prophets in our time, and given them this important power and authority.  

I testify that the Restoration is important. 

After church we had a beautiful baptismal service. It was the baptism of two 8 year old girls. Their baptisms are not counted on any of the reports that we send in as missionaries (because as 8 year old children of members they fall under the stewardship of the local leadership and not the missionaries), but I still felt like we played a significant part in their baptisms.

Elaine is the daughter of a member who started coming to church again after we visited them. We even taught little Elaine her own lesson to help her understand why baptism is so important.

Jacque is one of the daughters of a recent convert family. A month ago I spoke at the funeral of her 13 year old sister Jasmine. (Though Jasmine came to church, she was never baptized because was afraid of the water. We have taught their family about the work that goes on inside our Temples, and how they can be baptized for Jasmine, and all those who died without the chance to be baptized.) We were there to help celebrate Jacque's 8th birthday and we have also taught her a couple of times to help her understand the covenant that we make at baptism. 

After they were baptized by someone holding the Priesthood authority of God, others with that same authority laid their hands on Jacque's and Elaine's head and confirmed them as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and gave them the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Because the Baptismal service was held right after church there were many people there to witness it, include 3 of our investigators. Happy day!! 

Love,

Sister Abish "Member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints" Curtis

Pictures:

-Baptism

-Pictures from my birthday on the beach

-A picture of a caribou that thinks he is an alligator, but actually in this picture looks more like a dragon.

Happy Birthday to Me!!!!!!!!

Happy Birthday everyone!!!!

This morning I was singing all the Primary Songs about birthdays. One of my new favorites is "Have a very Happy Birthday." From it I learned that sharing cake and friendship is what birthdays are all about. Even though I can't share my birthday cake with you, I am still able to share my friendship. I'm so grateful for the friendship that I have with all of you. It's something we can still share worlds apart.

Today I the big old age of 23. I used to think that was so old. But not anymore. I'm successfully convincing myself that I am still young.    I was already 22 when the prophet announced that Sisters could now serve at the age of 19. I was worried that I would be so old compared to everyone else. But so far all my companions have been older than me. How neat is that. 

So far it's been a great birthday. Because of the package of Lynn and Bille, (members from my branch back home) I got to eat my favorite cereal for breakfast this morning.  After we are done emailing, we are going to a zone activity.... at the beach!!!! I haven't seen the ocean my whole mission so far, except on the airplane, so I'm excited. And then tonight we have an awesome Family Home Evening planned with some members here.

One of the pictures I attached below is us in Brother Bogie's motorcycle side cart. (I think I mentioned it a week or two ago.) We call Brother Bogie and his 'gang' the PowerRangers. They are our superheros that show up whenever we need help. Examples:  1) It's getting late and we are waiting by the side of the rode trying to find a jeep or trike to take us home. Right when we are about to give up hope the PowerRangers drive by and take us home.  2) Our investigators used all their money getting to church and they don't have enough money to get home. The with the help of the PowerRangers they get home safe and sound.  3) There are less active members who live far away and we don't know where they live. The PowerRangers not only take us there, but also testify powerfully during the lesson. 

This is one of the neat experiences that happened this week: 

The PowerRangers were taking us to the homes of less active members that we didn't know about. At the first lesson, my companion took the lead and taught a powerful lesson. We taught and testified and they committed to coming to church.

At the next house it was my turn to take the lead. I worried that I wouldn't be able to do as good a job as my companion just did. And I was worried about my still- not-very-good-Tagalog.  As we begun the lesson I began by asking some questions. I guess one of the lessons was an inspired question, but it resulted in tears and the outpouring of the spirit. The young mother cried as she answered my question about what she wanted for her 6 month old daughter when she was grown up. She talked about the huge blessing the gospel has been in her life and how much she wants that for her daughter. Her husband who is not a member was there, and there is no way he could have missed how important this is to his wife. I have high hopes for them.   

I'm so grateful I don't have to teach lessons alone. Not only do I have an amazing companion, and wonderful members backing me up, most importantly I have the Spirit of God to testify of what I teach. It doesn't mater if I am not the most powerful teacher in the world. Because the message I share is the most powerful in the world. I am humbled to be worthy to be a messenger of my Savior Jesus Christ. 

Maligayang Bati!!!!

Sister Abish "23" Curtis

Pictures

1) I was so happy to find my favorite cereal in my package. Perfect for eating on birthdays. 

2) Service project- It was quiet an adventure for these Elders to move that larger log there for a new and sturdier bridge for a family. 

3) Drinking coconut milk straight from a coconut

4) Brother Bogie's side cart and the PowerRangers (my favorite way to travel)

5) Just a regular day

6) Zone picture

7) One night we taught a lesson by lamp light (as in an oil lamp)

Merry Christmas!​!!!

The Philippines has the longest Christmas season that I have ever heard of. All the months that end in "ber" (September, October, November, and December) are considered the Christmas months. People are already setting up their Christmas decorations and playing Christmas songs. So a very Merry Christmas to you all!

Something else great about the Philippines is that there are fireflies here! Last night as me and my companion were walking home from our last appointment we stopped for a minute to chase some. Have you ever tried catching fireflies before? It's like this: they don't constantly shine their light. They blink on and off. While their light is on you move towards them as fast as you can. But when they turn their light off, your just kinda lost, moving in the direction you last saw it and searching in the darkness for the next clue. You can't see the firefly, but you know it's there. 

Sometimes life is like trying to catch fireflies. There is not a constant light always showing us exactly where to go. But we have move fast when we do see the light. And then when there is no light, we still have to move forward searching for the next clue. Sometimes it may seem like we can't see God or his direction in our life, but I testify that he is always there. We just have to move forward and faith. Don't give up, or you'll never be able to catch the fireflies in your life. 

One of the many great things about being a missionary is having the time set aside everyday for studying the scriptures. Right now me and my companion are spending a part of our companion study everyday to read the New Testament. And it just so happens that in my personal study I am ready in the Book of Mormon in 3 Nephi, which is when the resurrected Jesus comes to the people in ancient America, and all the events that surround His coming. It has been neat to read the two testimonies of our Savior, and the things that were happening in two different continents, but at the same time. I testify of the reality of our Redeemer, even Jesus Christ. Not only did He live, but He continues to live. He died for us, and he also lives for us. He loves me. I love Him. True story. 

Let your actions reflect your love for your Savior.  

Love,

Sister Abish "Firefly catcher" Curtis

Philippines Angeles Mission

F. Tanedo St, Brngy San Nicolas

Tarlac City, Tarlac 2300

Philippines

p.s. I had some great pictures to send you, but this computer isn't letting me attach them. Next week na lang. 

I Love to See the Temple

When I left the MTC I thought it would be my last time to see the temple for a year and a half. But miracle of miracles I had the chance this week to go the Manila Philippines Temple. The Temple is not in our mission, but our President has given us permission if someone we have taught/ are teaching is going to the temple of endowment or sealing.

It was a Branch Temple trip with about 30 members going, so we rented a mini bus for the 3 hour trip. There were two people going through the temple for the first time, that is why we got to go. On the way we picked up two Elders, because Elder Royal was the Elder who actually baptized Nanay Rose. Fun side note: I read Elder Royal's blog before my mission, so it was neat to actually meat him in person.

It was so amazing to be back in the temple. It was so peaceful. I felt strengthened and determined to be and do better, and I know the Lord will help me. 

I loved watching as the two sisters went through the temple for the first time. It has been a year since I first went through the temple, and I've seen the strength its been to my life. This is what I want for everyone I've ever taught. Baptism is but a step that leads to the temple. Now when I imagine the people I teach in white, it won't just be the white they'll wear on their baptism day, but also the white they will wear on their temple day. Missionary work isn't about baptisms. It's about Salvation.

I'm a Mormon. I know it, I live it, I love it.

Sister Abish "Temple" Curtis

Beautiful Philippine​s, Full of Adventures

This part of the Philippines is absolutely gorgeous! I got to go on some grand adventures this week.

We are trying to find a new apartment to rent, since president is planning on adding two more sisters to our area. Some members in our branch brought us to a beautiful house that I really hope gets approved. We had brought along our zone leaders as well so they could check the place out. Afterwards the members suggested we go out to eat lunch. Since it was just about lunch time we agreed. The Elders joined the members in their trike and me and my companion joined the other members in their vehicle (a motorcycle with a side cart, more suitable for hauling pigs then people. Sitting on some wooden boards we had quite the exciting ride, I'll try to get better pictures next time we ride. One of the pictures below is the five of us who were riding that day) They brought us to a restaurant at the top of a mountain. It was a beautiful view. While we were up there I got to hold one of the pet snakes they keep at the restaurant (see pictures below).

We had a service project this week as a district. What people do in America with a lawn mower, people do here by hand. And often time rather than just chopping the grass, people prefer for their long grass to just be pulled out at the root. So that is what we did.

Earlier today we had a zone activity where we hiked up to some falls (Every Monday we take a break from teaching all day, and sometimes get to do something fun like this). It was in one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. The mountains were as beautiful as the Utah mountains, but as green as Missouri. A river we passed reminded me of a river I once saw in Yellowstone National Park. The rice fields were majestic, and the weather was perfect. And all that is just what I saw on the way to our hike. The hike itself was magical. But we didn't actually make it up to the top. You see each time we crossed the river, it got higher and higher. After the 5th time crossing, the water was getting up to our waist. We are not allowed to swim as missionaries, so this was not good news. So we decided to end there, with hopes that we could come back at a drier time of the year. But we got lots of great pictures, and what we did see was totally worth it.

Now, I don't want you to think as missionary its all fun and games. Nope, it's fun and work. This week, every lesson that we taught to investigators was with a member present. This is the first time this has happened on my mission. It is all thanks to our wonderful branch missionaries Sister Rosa and Sister Erlinda. Both are the cutest old ladies. They are both in their sixties.
I want to tell you about Nanay Rosa. She is about to turn 67. She was baptized about 3 years ago, and she loves the gospel. And she loves missionary work. Her goal before she dies is to help 10 people become members of Christ's church through baptism. Some five of her referrals to the missionaries have been baptized. And she is not slowing down yet. I love the days she works with us. She is not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and boldly invites anyone she can to listen to the missionaries. She is amazing and I wish I was as good a missionary as she is.

Yesterday we were behind on our lessons, and we had more people to teach than me and Sister Sarto could handle on our own. So we got permission to go on splits. Sister Sarto and Nanay Erlinda taught five lessons. And me and Nanay Rosa taught five lessons. I loved it. I love our Nanays!

I love the gospel! I love being a missionary! I love the Philippines!

Sister Abish "Snack Master" Curtis

1000 Lessons and a Miricle

Once upon a week I used my weekly key indicators from all my planners to count how many lessons I've taught so far here in the Philippines. By teaching 30-40 lessons a week, it was this week that I taught my 1000th lesson. How crazy is that? But the truth of the matter is, it's not the most important thing the number of lessons that I teach, or even the number of people I prepare for baptism. The important thing for any missionary, no matter where they serve, is that they do their best. True story. True church.

Recently all the non-progressing investigators in our area have been dropped. So when I got here, our investigator teaching pool was very, very small. Me and Sister Sarto have been praying for and searching for new investigators to teach. We studied about it as companions. We fasted about it on fast Sunday. 

 

The following story is an answer to our pleas:

One of the great Sisters in our ward (Sister Adonis) told us about Brother Bondoc, a less active member. His wife and four children are not members. His parents and siblings are all strong in the church, held various leadership callings, but they all now live in far away  places such as America. At the request of his father, Sister Adonis has been asking the missionaries to visit him. But for whatever reason, the past missionaries were not able to do it. But when me and Sister Sarto received the referral we made it a priority. Using a hand drawn map Sister Adonis had made we found his house, and luckily he was even outside. He let us in his house and met his wife (none of the kids were home and available). We had the neatest lesson with them. When we asked Brother Bondoc what he misses about the church (he was baptized with his family when he was 16, but I believe he went inactive when he married a non-member), he started crying as he talked about going to church with all his family. It was the sweetest thing. It turns out his wife was taught by the missionaries years ago, but her parents who are devout Catholics, were opposed to her being baptized. But now that her parents are dead she is more opened to the idea. She even accepted our invitation to be baptized on September 14th, if she feels like she is ready by then. We explained the things that would help her to be ready. Besides continuing to listen to the missionaries, she needs to sincerely ponder about the things we teach, and pray to our Heavenly Father to know if they are true. She will need to read from the Book of Mormon (they already have one in their house, but we will teach her more about it next time). And she will need to come to church. 

 

As we committed them to come to church, Brother's answer was sure, but his wife was more hesitant. We talked to her about what she is unsure of, and we helped to calm her fears. By the time we left she was much more sure about coming to church the next day, along with their children. But come Sunday morning we got a text from Brother Bondoc saying his wife wasn't ready, and that it would be hard for him to come without his family. None of them ended up coming.  But we will not give up. I know that this family is an answer to more than just my prayers. I am sure Brother Bondoc's faithful family has been praying for him for a long time. I know the Lord has a plan for this family, and I am excited to do my part to be His instrument. 

I continue to fall in love with my new area: Kalikid. I love our branch. 

Our Sunday School somehow lead to our class of about 20 sharing their conversion stories. More than half of them are converts. It was one of the most inspiring things for a missionary to hear. It strengthened my faith that there are people prepared and waiting for us missionaries to find them. 

Our regular branch pianist was missing yesterday, so I played the piano for sacrament meeting. My playing was far from perfect, but I was still so happy to be able to serve this branch anyway I could. 

I'm a happy missionary.

Sister Abish "1000 and counting" Curtis