Week 59 - Tarawa, Teaoraereke (Companion: Elder Parry)

So its been a great week, our baptism was really good, Tebwebwe, her daughter Maggie and nephew Roteta got baptized as well as Ueen, Aborina, Rotikate and Kaaremwa. And all the other children in the photo are just child of records (Children who have just turned 8), so there was a lot of white. President and Sister Larkin flew in on Friday and it was good to have them at our baptism. It was one of the best baptisms I've had, lots of member support and just a really spiritual experience for all who attended.

Tiaon & Aabi... GOLD.

So this Sunday Tiaon, his wife, Aabi and 3 of their kids came to church and stayed all three hours! I'm really proud of them, that cant of been an easy thing for them. First of all they live in a area that is very strong catholic (they have to walk past the biggest catholic building in Tarawa to get to church). Also I was talking to bishop and he was very surprised to see him at church because of things he's done in the past, so obviously there is gossip about him (something that cannot be avoided in a society like this). So was a big step for that family, and they were fellow-shipped really well.

To answer your questions about the outer islands, the West zone looks after Makin, Butaritari, Marakei and Abaiang... anything north of Tarawa. And there is reliable communication in Abaiang and Marakei but Butaritari can be a hassle to get a hold of, and they do not take part in zone conferences. They are out there all by themselves until they get a transfer and if there is anything they need to know, we tell them over the phone. And zone conferences happen whenever President is in town. but no conference this week.

And the sisters in my district have a favour, they want a shout out in my blog so shout out to sisters Lee, Tutuila, Heni, Beria.

And for a parcel, please put more 400 speed film in there, spare white shirts for investigators, please find some dope ties (I need to step up my tie game, Elder Parry is destroying me). maybe chuck in the other lens for my pentax, I think its like 35-70mm and that's all I can think of.

So that's about it.

Happy anniversary! cool to hear Rhys is going for school captain and that y'all gonna meet Vaughan's girl... awkward for mum and dad, hahah  

love y'all,

Elder Berends