Santarem 12/4/17

Aloha Família!

Been a good week this week. I have felt the hand of God in my life, and know without a shadow of a doubt that the Gospel is true. Two years and still true, que coisa mais boa! (What a good thing!)

First of, it's been COLD in Sião! (Zion) Beanie, gloves, two socks, and of course my tights :P  Some days are colder than others, but it's been cold none-the-less. The wind doesn't help. At the same time though, it's definitely getting more festive here. We've been doing contacts saying "Feliz Natal" (Merry Christmas) and honestly, it just brings a whole new level of happiness to the contact, haha. It's a great time of year! On a sadder note, it's surprising how many people we run into, who tell us they don't celebrate Christmas...but hey, the message will still bless their lives!

#Be A Light to the World

Missão Portugal Porto is in the Seja uma Luz ao Mundo (#Be a Light to the World) campaign full swing! We have these cool posters, calendars, pass along cards, etc., that we are using to contact people and it's been great! Lots of fun too! People seem to stop more willingly to hear us out! Plus, you know, who doesn't like to wear a Santa hat right? :D

We've been teaching a lot! At least 2-3 lessons per day, since the beginning of this transfer. To some, that may not sound like a lot, but it's a pretty good amount here. We've taught some Indians, some people from Timor, and a lot of Romanians, and of course Portuguese people, haha.

Pedro and Carina are progressing well! They have been taught almost all the lessons. They came to a baptism this week and to church! Super cool!

A recent baptism in Santarem!

We had District Conference on Sunday, and a general authority named Elder Bennasar, from France, came. He talked about the importance of following the first impression using the story of Nephi being called to go to the mountains to receive the instructions on how to build the ship. Also, the question of how our faith is when the circumstances change, using the example of Darius, of the New Testament, and how he has to wait for Jesus even though he was "1st in line" as he heals the woman and gets the notice that his daughter is already dead. We need not be afraid, and only believe!

All in all, a pretty good week! Thanks for writing me everyone! Rainbow falls is RAGING! Fogo! Plenty rain in Hilo! Also, everyone looking spiffy at that activity at the Veteran's Center. Sister, beautiful pāhana! Fam, I love you guys! Be lights unto the world! Jesus is the way the truth and the light and as we do the things that He did and does, we will be able to fill other peoples' lives with light and happiness! Vos amo! (I love you!)

de Sião, com autoridade, (of Zion, with authority)

Élder Kim de cabelo pintado vermelho (with red painted hair) 

"He who has the red painted hair",
styling in his new suit!!