August 6th, 2012

Happy August! I can't believe July is gone already. This past week was topped of with a baptism. I was privileged Vitaliy from Moldova on Saturday. He clearly put a lot of thought into everything. He was ready for it. He even came about an hour early for the baptism. I love to hear the sound of the font filling up in a chapel. This is what it's all about. That's our main role here as missionaries, to help people come unto Christ and take the step of baptism. He also asked that I confirm him on Sunday and that was another blessing for me. I could really feel the Spirit as I layed my hands upon his head. I felt a witness that all was right that it was all being done by the proper order which God has laid out. God truly is a God of order.

The branches here need more strong leaders. I have seen issues in every branch and ward I've served in here. It troubles me a lot to see things not working the way they can and should be. We're taking a lot of steps to see that the programs of the Church are being carried out properly and that people are not being forgotten. Many members seem to think they know it all, but they really need help. It's a bit of an awkward position to be in sometimes, as a missionary trying to "fix" things, but it's a privilege to be here and learn. My mission has been filled with great learning opportunities.

Our days consist of a lot of sweating and a lot of people who have "no time" to talk, but we learn everyday and we always have something to work on. The whole mission is trying to get at least one baptism per companionship in the month of August. We have one. It's getting a little late to have another date set for this month, but we're trying. I love our mission president and how he is constantly pushing us, or maybe I should say pulling us because he truly leads.

I love the Savior. I love this work. I feel God's protection and His power. We are not alone here. There are angels round about us.

Thanks for all the love and support,
Elder Jonathan Mahoney

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