Elder Harr/Hardy - South Shore Ward Sp - Jun 4, 1996 - "CONVERSION SAVED MARRIAGE - Camila Batista who was baptized in April, bore a lovely testimony yesterday. She said she was a couple of days away from getting a divorce with all the problems they had. She then came to church, felt something wonderful and new, she knew that this was the true church of Christ. She spoke about her baptism and knew that this was the best thing she had done and how it had changed her life for the better and outlook on things. She and her husband are now very happy and peaceful. The spirit was so strong."

Elder Gritton/Stark - Rego Park 1 (Portuguese) - May 19, 1996 - "PORTUGUESE RETENTION AND ACTIVATION DIFFICULT - It is frustrating, because we are trying to keep people active, everyone who is baptized, but few come back to church regularly. Gossip has hit part of the branch, Sunday work takes another part, and now that Summer is coming on, we are losing others to the beaches and other Sunday activities, and finally, just plain laziness. Activation of Brazilians is very difficult."

Elder Kohler/Stevenson - Coney Island 1 (Bensonhurst) - Apr 1, 1996 - "REACTIVATION EFFORTS - President Skriloff is very amazed at the work we are doing, since about all we have been doing is looking up members, because there are so many inactives here. Even the active members we visit need to be visited also. The Lord is providing us with people to teach as we just put forth the effort to do member retention work. Branch relations are excellent now. Last Sunday we had 94 at church. The Branch Presidency goal is to have an average attendance of 150 by Christmas 1996. We’re glad that they want the growth. Their main goal is reactivation. We will do both. We’re all excited about April, as we will be at your home on May 1. We’ve set goals of 6 baptisms this month plus 10 reactivated. I’d like to have attendance up to 130 quickly. As we missionaries continue to work together, with unity, we will have an exciting month.

Elder Rust/Turner - Rockland Br - Mar 24, 1996 - "UNDERSTANDING OF MEMBERS - In an effort to increase better member relations, I gave every companionship a list of members, to ask them "Specific things they feel the missionaries could do better to retain converts from going inactive". We personally visited three households, one of which was the couple that seemed to be the most negative. He had appeared to not get along with any of the missionaries, and never even really looked at us, except when pointing out something we had done wrong. Well all three of our visits were successful and taught me a lot. It was amazing to see what their real concerns were. What it all came down to was that they simply want us to teach them what they should do. They feel we should ask them to give our investigators’ rides, ask to teach in their homes, ask them to care for our investigators at church. Whether they want to or not, the members all agreed that they had to do these things because it’s their responsibility. I feel it’s just going to take the missionaries extra effort for a little while until they get used to fellowshipping on their own. Basically the whole problem came from so many people getting baptized that they had never met."

Elder & Sis. Curbishley - Staten Island Branches - Mar 24, 1996 - "THE RAW CONVERTS OF NEW YORK CITY AND HOW THEIR LIVES AND OUTLOOKS CHANGE - Principally, we visit the new members and teach the six New Member Discussions to all of them. We see it as our responsibility to keep these new converts going. We don’t want any one of them falling out of the church. We also work with a few part-member families, and with a few investigator families. It’s hard for most people to come out of the world and join the church, and perhaps doubly hard for these City Dwellers. Our church is very alien to the prevailing culture. In the Cebra Branches (1 English and 1 Spanish), we deal almost exclusively with poor city people, who have attended these socialist driven city schools all of their lives. They have been taught that all of their poverty and suffering is the result of the greed of the middle class. They are taught to distrust and even hate white folks with a deadly passion. Some live in unbelievable squalor, they have at best, only an extremely distorted perception of Jesus Christ, some only know His name as a vile swear word.

To join the church, they have to make enormous changes, make incredible sacrifices, and endure endless torment from their peers. If I was in their shoes, I doubt if I would ever have the courage to be baptized. But every month, a dozen or more of these people do join the church here in Staten Island. Each has gut-wrenching stories to tell of their lives in the ghettos, of the beauty of their conversions, and of the blessings that come into their lives since joining the church. We look around us and see poor people, many with no jobs, or with minimum wage jobs. We see single mothers barely surviving on welfare. We see some members coming to church in rags, because that’s all they have. Some spend 45 minutes getting here by public transportation, through freezing weather and 3 feet of snow. Some live in homeless shelters. A lot can’t read or write, precious few have ever had any position of responsibility in their lives. They are from the lowest rungs of the socio-economic ladder. Society has taught them that they are failures.

But here they are, every Sunday, with bright, smiling faces, eager to learn. We watch them week by week as they change. We see them grow as they learn about love. We see them struggling to hold onto their families against almost overwhelming odds. We watch them giving their first talks in church, we hear the most marvelous testimonies, ears can hear. We perceive them struggling to improve themselves. Sometimes we think we are living in a Third World country, we have only the Verrazano Bridge and the Manhattan skyline, to remind us that this is still the US. I think we are living and experiencing a Great Miracle. This part of the world is being blessed like no other, we can feel it, and every missionary on the island can feel it. There is talk of new buildings, of the island becoming a Stake, of Family History Centers and chapels, and Seminaries and Institutes. We have no doubt it will happen. It’s simple mathematics. How many people make a Stake. How long will it take at 10 - 30 per month.

The work is hard, but the rewards are out of this world. What is it worth to hear the Primary children’s choir singing? To hear a brand new Priesthood holder teaching his first Priesthood class? To hear young men and young women almost apoplectic with excitement about a Temple trip that departs at 5 am and returns at midnight the same day from Washington DC. To hear an old woman weep for joy because you call her sister? To have teenage boys hug you and jump all over you because you took a crock pot full of food to them? To have little children fight each other for the honor of sitting on your lap? To sit hugging a 4 year old, as black as coal, with tears streaming down your face as you contemplate the horrendous challenges he faces growing up in such a crime riddled city? To have your heart melt as you watch young mothers brave such a hostile world, trying to rear their fatherless children as good, honest, God fearing kids? To pray with a Branch President who has so many problems he doesn’t even know what day of the week it is? To hold meetings in a homeless shelter, and have non-members there beg you to teach them also? To reactivate a middle aged man who hasn’t been to church for 30 years? To see the appreciation on the faces of the Hispanics as you struggle to speak to them in their own language? To share the excitement with a new member who catches the vision of their new calling? To teach a mother of teenage children how to bake bread because she’s never been taught before?

We think we are the luckiest people in the whole world. Lucky to be here, to have these wonderful experiences, lucky that we live here because we want to, not because we have to."

NOTE: The Branch President of Rego Park 1 Branch recently advised me that these people come into the church, receive vision, self confidence, and change their status with better jobs or higher education. He noted that his tithing has increased 50% over the past 12 months, and this is not attributed solely to new converts joining, but these other factors in addition.

Elder Rob Jensen/Hicken - Uniondale Ward - Mar 27, 1996 - "MALE CONVERTS ALL ACTIVE - We have worked with some excellent, prepared people. All 4 of those baptized in the short time here, have been males. They are between 30-45. They are all active and have been to church every week since baptism. One man Bruce Welburn, was baptized during the week, because he had to leave for Georgia the following Sunday. He came to church that Sunday and received the priesthood, and then left for 27 days for his work. He looked up the church in the phone book in Georgia, and called. Members came and picked him up and took him to church. During those 27 days, he went to church every Sunday, met lots of members and made new friends. I just love seeing new converts when they take off like this in the church. It makes it all worthwhile."

Elder Hopkins/Howell - Richmond Hill - Mar 24, 1996 - "FAMILIES and TEMPLE TRIP - After church I gave the priesthood to the father of the family we baptized. He then gave the priesthood to one of his sons. The other sons are going to receive the priesthood next week. They were not able to be interviewed on Saturday. The 13 and 14 year old have received a recommend to go to the Temple, to perform baptisms for the dead. I am so thankful to work with this entire family. They are so excited about the church."

Elder Roberts/Pippin - South Shore Ward - Mar 18, 1996 - "MALE CONVERT SPEAK - At Stake Conference it was such a great feeling and experience to hear one of my converts, Mike Schmidt, share his testimony and wonderful conversion story, especially about the Book of Mormon. I had never really heard it from his side before. I loved his testimony. We also had an investigator family there, who were really moved by his talk. They had similar concerns that he did before baptism. They asked me for his phone number, so they could talk to him more. Truly converted people are the best kind."

President Danny Hamilton - Australia Perth Mission President - Nov APM Baptiser - "BAPTIZING CHILDREN - Now let's review the appropriateness of baptizing 3 children. Sharon, the mother of 6 was taught but not baptized. Josh, her 10 year old son was baptized. Josh refers Mandy (10) and Stephen (9), his cousins and they are baptized. Ann the grandmother of Josh, Mandy and Stephen, is so impressed with the impact the church has on her grandchildren, that she seeks, is taught and baptized. Ann invites her son Kevin (husband of Sharon) to her baptism. Kevin is overcome by the spirit of the baptism and is baptized one week later. Sharon is now supported by family and is baptized two weeks later by her husband Kevin who has received the Aaronic Priesthood. We now see, it was a most appropriate and fruitful action to baptize these children. Judge not! Invite everyone.

Elder Mugleston/Gardner - Bushwick 1 - Mar 11, 1996 - "CONVERTING POWER OF THE TEMPLE - Elder Peterson and I baptized Caroline. This weekend, she went and visited the DC Temple. She called me and told me all about it and how wonderful it was. She said the baptisms went so wonderful and that she wants to return often. I love the converting power of the Temple. I now know that the sooner I can have my converts get to the Temple, they will see beyond themselves, be so much closer to remaining active and helping others."

Elder Neal Peterson/Michael Jensen - Plainview 1 Ward - Mar 4, 1996 - "SOUND BRANCH/WARD RELATIONSHIPS - NO CONTENTION - Mosiah 18:21 "And He commanded everyone, that there should be no contention one with another, that they should look forward with one eye, having one faith and one baptism, having their hearts knit in unity and love one towards another." Towards the end of my time in Midwood, Branch/Missionary relationships started to sour, I’m not sure why, but the work slowed dramatically. When I came to Plainview, those same relationships had in the past also been sour, but they improved after a few key baptisms of strong families and priesthood, who stayed. The wards began to talk about the new converts. With Stake Mission President Monk Bailey’s "Hoop it up" campaign, everyone became a lot more focused on missionary work. Whilst having lunch with the Bishop, he told us of a few part member families that the Ward members were praying, would be completed. One family was the Escomilla family. We then went with confidence as the Ward were on our side, and helped him realize that he already had a testimony. The combined prayers of the Ward moved him, and after teaching him with the Bishop, he was baptized. Moses 7:16 "And the Lord called His people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness."

Sister Katie Hansen/Lowe - Midwood 1 - Feb 18, 1996 - "FUTURE PRIESTHOOD LEADERS - I hated to see Sister Milligan leave for Portugal. We worked so hard and she didn’t get to see these people baptized yesterday. Phil Goldenberg, baptized last week received the Aaronic Priesthood today, along with Frank Macirelli (18), who was only baptized last Thursday. Jenny Arroyo from the Coney Island Branch called us to teach her husband. He is now very strong and will make a good member as well as now he is planning on taking Jenny through the temple in 12 months. Also Omari (27), was interviewed after his baptism and he will receive the priesthood next Sunday. The lord is blessing us with future strong Priesthood leaders, something we have been praying for and which the Branch likes and needs. We also baptized Marjory (31)"

Sister Lowe/Katie Hansen- Midwood 1 - Feb 18, 1996 - "CONVERT - IMAGE IN HER COUNTENANCE - This Friday Marjory Azor (31), was baptized. She’s so amazing! Her baptismal service was so moving As she came up out of the water, she looked up at Sis. Bodell and I and smiled. She was in her own words "Beyond excitement". Saturday morning, she called me at 6.30 am to tell me how happy she was, how much she loved the gospel and how strongly she desired to serve in the church and help it grow. She said "If you ever think your work here is useless, please remember me and the joy you’ve given me!" Her conversion has been a miracle to me. Her faith and excitement inspire me. Her love for the Savior is apparent to everyone Alma 5:14. Elders Adams and Nielsen met her on the street that same day and told me "She was glowing. We knew she must have been a member." I love being a missionary."

Anthony McCarthy - Rockaway 1 - Nov 28, 1995 - "TESTIMONY OF CONVERT - ATTENDED ZONE CONFERENCE - Thankyou for allowing me as a new 18 year old convert, of a few weeks to attend Zone Conference. I was overwhelmed with the spirit that I felt at that meeting. My baptism was an extraordinary experience. I had prayed so sincerely about the book and the church, because I was a huge skeptic about everything, but God kindly eradicated my suspicions, and that really makes me feel very joyful. I am constantly filled with this exceeding happiness in my soul, that can't stop no matter what predicament I have to endure. I am very thankful for the gospel, the Book of Mormon and last but not least, Jesus Christ who died for my sins. NOTE: His 20 year old sister was baptized a few days after this letter was written. He set an excellent example and wishes to serve a mission."

Elder Browning/Mark Taylor - Rockaway 1 - Nov 28, 1995 - "ANTI MORMON LITERATURE - A recent convert was given one of the recent articles about us in the Jehovah's Witnesses pamphlet and began looking up the scriptures. Whilst looking up 2 Peter 1:20-21, he mistakenly found 2 Peter 2:20-21, which talks about not turning away from that which you learn of the Lord. I later found it in his house and asked him if he had any concerns about it. He said "No! It's not true and I have no problems." It only made him stronger. He goes on many "splits" with us, and we have really enjoyed them."

Sister Yeh/Alsop - Richmond Hill 1 - Nov 5, 1995 - "READ BofM BY CMAS - Jacqueline, our new convert has come to church every week by herself since baptism. She reads 4 chapters from the BofM every day because she knows she can finish the whole book by Dec 24. This is her Christmas present to the Lord. She loves the church so much. NOTE: She did finish by Christmas Eve.

Sister Linford/Leffler - Flushing 11 - Oct 29, 1995 - "NEW CONVERTS - When you were at our branch last Sunday President, you could really tell how supportive and strong they are. We have such a blend of new and more mature members. Our 6 new converts of this past month are so cute, one girl Christine drove 80 year old Ruby home from church. Ruby already had a ride, but that person drove a sports car and Christine drives a full size sedan. She offered because she thought Ruby could get in and out better. Noone asked her, she just showed initiative. She also had to miss part of Relief Society so she could be interviewed by the Branch President. Afterwards she asked us what she had missed, so eager to know. We gave her a copy of a General Conference talk. She held it as if it were gold.

Another girl Rika felt so excited about church after the missionary fireside last night, that she said, I am so envious of you being missionaries. All my life I thought just about work and school. Now I see what is really important. When we told her that she could also serve a mission after she had been a member for one year, her eyes just lit up. I'm going to start saving she said. It is also a joy to see other people who were inactive come back. One girl Monah, comes and she is so humble. She was prevented because her father would say she could not go, just to punish her. She has such a desire. "How can I pay tithing?" she asks or "What commandments do I have to live to prepare for the Second Coming." She truly feasts on the gospel like a starved person. Another man and his daughter finally returned yesterday after our invitations. It was so good to see them. He had once been very active, a returned missionary. Then there is Ruby and Frank. They are already different people after just 2 weeks of membership. Frank keeps inviting his friends to church, and Ruby withstood the persecutions she received from her neighbors when they found she had joined. She boldly told them that she knew Joseph Smith was a prophet and the BofM was a sacred scripture. She told us "They told me they were sanctified and holy, but how can they be that and criticize us for our beliefs. All these converts and reactivated people are so wonderful."

Sister Barker/Black - Jamaica 1 - Oct 1, 1995 - "30 YEAR OLD CONVERT STANDS UP FOR THE CHURCH - I really enjoyed General Conference. I didn't want it to end. I could have listened to the General Authorities for hours. The best part was having our recent convert Terrie Nash with us. She listened intently. She loved it. She has signed up for the Ensign. She can't wait for next month's issue with the Conference talks in. She really amazes us. Her mother is having such a hard time with Terrie being a member of the church. Terrie told me on Sunday that her mom was questioning her about her decision, she also asked if Terrie was going to attend church every Sunday and if she was really going to pay tithing all the time. Terrie's reply was "Mom, I feel so devoted to this church. This is where God and Jesus want me to be. I'm going to church every Sunday and paying my tithing. This is nothing new, the Bible talks about paying tithing. Mom, I'm 30 years old. I respect your religion, please respect mine!" The joy we feel watching her grow in the church. She is so devoted and dedicated and plans on taking out her endowments at her 12 month anniversary."

Elder Mugleston/Peterson - Midwood 1 - Sep 10, 1995 - "CONVERT - "WE MUST FORGIVE JUST AS HE DID" - During Priesthood lesson, the question was asked, "Why do we have to love our enemies?" In response, Mike Larent, our last week's baptism, said "Jesus was hated by the Israelites, but he still died for them. Should we not also forgive, as he did?" His statement hit me because here in Brooklyn, we must be forgiving against those who yell at us, are rude, ignorant and profane. At his statement, I had an overwhelming love for all the people here. Like the Sons of Mosiah, at that moment I felt like them in Mosiah 28:3 "for they could not bear that any human soul should perish."

Elder Mendenhall/Bateman - Richmond Hill 11 Sp - Sep 4, 1995 - "TESTIMONY OF ENTIRE FAMILY - Well we finally have baptized the whole family. Today was Fast Sunday and every family member bore testimony that this was the first time that the whole family were together as members of the true church. The whole congregation were touched and in tears as each one expressed their gratitude for the gospel. This is why we must baptize families. They have expressed their desire now to be sealed in the Temple when their 12 months are up."

Elder Batty/Anderson - Bushwick 11 Sp - Aug 20, 1995 - "LACING NEW CONVERTS - When I first arrived in this branch yesterday, a young boy came up to me and asked if I was Elder Batty. He then became so happy and excited and took me over to meet him Mom. She turned out to be the sister of a family that we baptized in Queens, 3 months ago! She and her family as well as the family from Queens are all active members. It brings peace and contentment as we see the gospel enrich the lives of converts and then it is extended as they bring in members of their extended families. It is all worthwhile."

Sister Yeh/Jones/Lowe - Richmond Hill 1 - Aug 20, 1995 - "CONVERTS STRONGER AFTER 4 MONTHS - When I got transferred back to Rego Park 1, one thing that really made me happy was to see Michelle, who we baptized in April. He is very active in the church. At the time I was really worried about him as he appeared very slow in picking up the doctrine. I thought he didn't understand everything we taught, but he wanted to be baptized. After 3 months, his knowledge of the gospel and his testimony has grown so much. He always brings his brother to all Branch activities. The gift of the Holy Ghost really does change people's lives."

Elder Chris Nielsen/Priddis - Richmond Hill 1 - Aug 20, 1995 - "ADMINISTRATION BY THE PRIESTHOOD - Feminism - A convert of mine hurt her leg so she asked us yesterday at church for a blessing. I think it scared her for a minute, because she could hardly walk before the blessing, but afterwards, just got up and walked out. She called me later and explained a "new" part of her testimony. She said it felt great after the blessing. When she got home, she felt a little pain, but was still so much better than before. When we taught her she was a liberal and a feminist. She had a real concern with only men holding the priesthood. She said if it wasn't for her testimony of the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith and Jesus Christ, she probably wouldn't have joined. She now says that she really has a strong testimony of the Priesthood. She said God showed her through this blessing. She now fully supports the way God runs the church through the Priesthood. It is great to watch small testimonies grow into large ones."

Sister Jones/Yeh/Lowe - Richmond Hill 1 - Aug 20, 1995 - "GIRLS BAPTIZED AFTER MOTHER - We had an awesome baptism last night. It was two girls. Their Mom was baptized about a month ago, and she said the closing prayer. What an incredible prayer. The Branch gives a lot of support and the spirit was strong."

Elder Johnson/Fleuriot/Oler - Midwood Creole - Aug 20, 1995 - "BRANCH MISSIONARIES - CREOLE - GIVE THEM JOBS - We are privileged to work in the Haitian/Creole program. You should see the excitement of the Branch Missionaries. We had a meeting with them last night, and set up 30 hours of splits with them for this week. We and they will definitely be actively engaged. One of these Branch missionaries Elder Maynes and I baptized 8 months ago. He will be receiving the Melchizedek Priesthood at the end of the month. He preached with us in a church yesterday. This is the kind of progression of converts that we pray and dream about, step by step journeying back to His presence. It is wonderful to witness the retention success. Give them jobs!"

Elder Pippin/Hoelzer - Uniondale 1 - Aug 20, 1995 - "FAMILY NOW COMPLETED - DEAD BROTHER PREPARED HIM - Richard Barrett's baptism yesterday was unreal. He was the last one in the family to be baptized. It all started with his mother 2 months ago. The husband and son followed. His mother thought Richard would never come to baptism. He was 18. We followed the spirit, and became friends first. Using his older brother who had died a few years ago as a lever, the spirit touched him, he knew the message was true. During the 4th Discussion, tears filled his eyes as we discussed life after death. "Richard you will see your brother again. You can be together forever. Will you be baptized this week." He committed. The service had an overpowering spirit, I felt his brother attend. After the confirmation, the family were all in tears. The joy and power of the gospel. He now wants to be a missionary in a year to spread his joy and peace with others. Complete families make missionary work all worth it. I never want to stop working or lose the qualifications of the spirit."

Hna Hansen/Arroyo - Flushing 1 Sp - July 3, 1995 - "CONVERT - TESTIMONY, TITHING & FASTING - Leida Sanz was baptized 8 days ago. Yesterday was her first fast. She bore her testimony in Testimony meeting. She told how grateful she was for the privilege to fast. After the meeting she took me into the foyer to help her fill out her fast offering envelope. Then she took it to Pres. Cordova. She was so happy! She is a true convert."

Elder Bair/Cowley - Brentwood Sp - July 2, 1995 - "RETENTION OF MALE CONVERT THROUGH VISITING - When Elder Robb Anderson and I went to Midwood to talk with our old convert, he realized that we were right and he has promised never to drink again. I called him Saturday night, to make sure he was going to church on Sunday and he said he'd already started his fast around 6 pm and that he'd gone to the family activity on Thursday night as well. He's doing a lot better. Thank you for allowing us to go on a split together and go back and see him, it helped him to see where his priorities should be as his wife forgives him so they can go to the Temple."

Elder Marchant/Luis Perez - Bushwick 11 Sp - May 29, 1995 - "TAKING STRONG CONVERTS ON SPLITS - One of my converts called Abigail, came down from Queens to help me out the other day. It was such a blessing. She was baptized on Christmas Day and since then has read the BofM, D&C, PofGP. She has read more in 3 months than I have read in my whole life. She helped us teach a few Charles and shared her powerful testimony, and now through her, Joel is committed for baptism. It was a miracle. I love this work."

Sister Otterstrom/Leffler - Richmond Hill 1 - May 21, 1995 - "MISSIONARIES REACTIVATE THROUGH SPLITS, WHEN VISITING TEACHING UNORGANIZED - In addition to our finding, we have so much retention work to do. Our area has a serious less active problem. We keep hoping that Visiting Teachers will be called soon, but in the meantime something must be done to retain our new converts. Sister Leffler and I found a solution. We are calling every active lady in the branch and setting up splits. That way, one team can do the proselyting while the other team does some retention. I feel like we need to try to reactivate the members we already have. They in turn will help the church retain the new members. But at the same time we need to keep baptizing as long as there are people to baptize. It should work well."

Elder Bateman/Savage - Bushwick 11 Sp - May 8, 1995 - "AYALA FAMILY - SON BAPTIZED FATHER - When we went to pick up the Ayala family (all but one of them were already baptized), they were all wearing dresses, white shirts and ties. We still thought that Jose would need a "push", so we took him into the "Holy of Holies" and Elder Savage asked him if he was willing to be baptized. He said "Not until 4 pm." We took him back to priesthood in time to see his 16 year old son receive the Aaronic Priesthood, then they signed up to go on the Father and Son camp. After church, we all saw the young man baptize his father. That completed an entire family of 6. What joy! A whole family! They are now all planning on going to the Temple for baptisms initially and then to be sealed in 12 months time. The son wants to serve a mission when 19 years old. The best change of all was that last Friday was the first Friday, as long as any of them can remember that Jose didn't spend 20 hours in the street drinking. He spent it at home with his family. An entire family!"

NOTE: Elder Bateman completed his mission in May. Elder Savage came back from BYU Hawaii on the next weekend, all to travel with them to the Temple. All were sealed. At 5 months membership, Bro. Ayala has been the Branch Mission Leader, who helps retain all the new converts. A great family.

Elder Michael Jensen/Stephen Jensen - Plainview 111 Eng - Apr 30, 1995 - "INVOLVE PRIESTHOOD LEADERS IN BAPTISMAL SERVICE - Sunday was perfect. Tom Marcinek was baptized by Frank Mansuetto, our WML. He was confirmed and received the priesthood by our Branch President Smith. Tom in turn baptized his wife and I confirmed her. It was a moving experience. The room was full of all Branch members and the spirit. I love this work."

Elder Nielsen/Hansen - LIC 11 Sp - Apr 24, 1995 - "CONVERTS BAPTIZING CONVERTS - Javier was baptized. It was wonderful. Wilson Carpio, who was baptized 6 weeks ago, baptized Javier. Isn't that awesome. Converts baptizing converts. There's a great spirit in that. This is how Zion grows through such retention."

Elder Shae Johnson/Arnold - Midwood 11 Sp - Apr 23, 1995 - "CONVERT - "HOW DO I PAY TITHING WHILST IN HOSPITAL - One of our recent converts was hit by a car. We visited her in Hospital. The greatest reward having known her and taught her came upon seeing her there. All she was really worried about was paying her tithing. She wanted to know how to pay from the hospital. She also said she wasn't hurt more than she was, because she was carrying her BofM. She is absolutely converted and retained!"

Elder Miles/Anderson - Bushwick 1 (Eng) - Apr 19, 1995 - "PARENTS TAKE CONVERT THROUGH UTAH TEMPLE - I talked with a lady yesterday who I baptized a year ago. She's flying out to Utah, to go through the Temple with my parents. It's great to see people progress and enter the Temple."

Elder Savage - Bushwick 11 Sp - Apr 2, 1995 - "TRUE CONVERT - READ TRIPLE COMBINATION TWICE - A convert Elder Little and I baptized last July, named America, read the BofM prior to her baptism in only 1 week. I bought her a Triple Combination. She has read it all. The Bible she said just didn't do the same for her. So she read the Triple again, and this time she marked her favorite scriptures. She is from Panama. I've never seen anyone understand the scriptures that well and that early before. She wanted more. I got her a subscription to the Liahona including the Conference talks. Even though she was so sick, she went to all the General Conference Sessions on Satellite. Towards the end the Ambulance had to come and take her away. She said, "I got to see the Prophet speak." I know she'll be blessed.

Elder Alexander/Crouch - Uniondale 1 - Apr 2, 1995 - "RETENTION - CALLING OLD CONVERTS - "I had a beautiful experience calling an old convert in Rosedale, Queens. We talked and he related that he hadn't been reading the scriptures as he should. We then shared a scripture and I committed him to continue reading. We said a prayer together over the telephone, and we both felt the Spirit confirm our desires. I love Carlos, he is a great man. I am grateful that we can continue to follow-up with past converts, for this will keep them strong. Thankyou for all that you do. I love you. You're the best."

Elder Brent Olsen/McBride - Plainview 11 (Eng) - Apr 2, 1995 - "NEW CONVERTS CALLED AS STAKE MISSIONARIES - I have never enjoyed an area like this one. It's great. Tom and Carmen Dvorak (converts of only 5 weeks), have been on fire since being called as Stake Missionaries, preparing people to hear the gospel. Carmen went tracting with us on Tuesday. We found a lady and taught her. Elder McBride and I sat back and watched Carmen make an instant friendship and then we began to teach. It was a very powerful and spiritual discussion. Richard and Minnie Todd (baptized 2 months ago), were also called in by Bishop La Fleur yesterday and called as Stake Missionaries. I thank the leaders for allowing us to call new converts as Stake Missionaries. They bring the spirit with power."

NOTE: Tom served as Ward Mission Leader from May 1995 to Jan 1996, before being called as Elders Quorum President. The family were sealed at their one year anniversary on February 1996. Their baptizing missionaries, Elders Hall and Olsen, (both former ZLs), returned from Utah to accompany them through the Washington DC. Temple.

Elder Reynolds/Brown - Brentwood Sp - Mar 27, 1995 - "TAKE CONVERTS ON SPLITS - Elder Brown was not well and I went on a split with Teodoro. We gained entry into a house through tracting and began to teach a 1st Discussion. I taught the first 5 principles and then felt that I should let Teodoro teach. I turned to him and asked if he could explain how he knew that the BofM was true. It was beautiful. He taught perfectly, without being told beforehand how to do it. He taught read, meditate and pray. He bore testimony that this was the only way to find out. I have a testimony of member splits. They are powerful. He was only baptized two months ago. Truly a "power convert".

Elder Ward/Greg Smith - Bushwick 11 Sp - Mar 20, 1995 - "CONVERTS RETAINING CONVERTS - Last week we took Carlos Rivera, a February baptism out to see some inactives. We visited Hilda, and she explained to us all the problems she's been going through. Without any prompting, Carlos just asked her why she isn't coming out to church. She really didn't have a good excuse. So he said he'd come by Sunday morning and take her with him. I was skeptical that it would work, because we had offered the same thing before. Much to my surprise, I saw her at church yesterday, sitting with Carlos, with a big smile. I was also extremely happy. Converts reactivating converts. It works."

Elder Holt/Welch - Brooklyn Deaf - Feb 12, 1995 - "BROOKLYN DEAF BRANCH STATISTICS - 144 copies of the Baptismal Checklists revealed - 32 were active (30 finished all 6 New Member Discussions); 2 Semi active (2 times each month); 22 moved; 21 Aaronic Priesthood out of 52 males; 5 have Melchizedek Priesthood; 1 endowed; 3 baptized a new member; 2 performed baptisms for Dead in Temple. Not good enough. Must try harder."

Elder Olsen/Hall - Plainview 11 Ward - Jan 23, 1995 - "TODD FAMILY - PRIESTHOOD LEADERS INVOLVED IN SERVICE - This is the first time I have found, taught and baptized a complete family. It has been such a spiritual uplift, teaching the Todd family. Every time we've been gone to teach them, they are all gathered together, ready with their scriptures and markers, to learn more about the gospel. They love church, they sit on the front row at church and Bishop La Fleur baptized them. They were assigned a Home Teacher who was there at the baptism and will be coming with us this week to teach the first New Members Discussion. Everything went perfectly with the family. It was a Missionary Guide experience. I love working with the ward leaders so closely."

NOTE: Entire family were sealed in Feb 1996. Very active in leadership still.

Elder Hall/Olsen - Plainview 11 - Jan 23, 1995 - "USE PRIESTHOOD LEADERS AT BAPTISMAL SERVICES - We have seen miracles in the Zone, Plainview 1, 11, and 111. We've been working closely with Pres. Weidler, the Stake Mission President, to increase the number of Stake Missionaries. I know that if we can build a strong "member foundation", the Lord will open the doors and provide us with strong converted families. Everyone baptized yesterday in the Zone, and all received a Home Teacher at the baptism. No missionaries performed any of the ordinances. Home Teachers and Ward leaders did everything. The baptismal room was packed with members.

An inactive Robert Klos returned to church for the 2nd time through our efforts. He's 29, holds the priesthood, a good job, has a car, and he's a good future leader. We visited him 3 weeks ago and he came back to church. He requested a blessing to help him quit smoking and turn his life around. We took the EQP and the Bishop into the Bishop's office and gave him a powerful blessing. Tears were shed. He's back to stay. PS. 100% attendance of everyone baptized after October 1, 1994, i.e.. almost 4 months. Retention."

Elder Brown/Regnier - Jamaica 11 Sp - Jan 2, 1995 - "FOCUS ON YOUTH ACTIVITY - Each Sunday we have 2-4 youth attend church. As missionaries we planned a special youth activity Thursday evening. We brought 3 active youth and 7 inactives/investigator youth. Each youth didn't want the night to end. We more than doubled our youth attendance in church on Sunday. We also had our first Sunday ever, where only deacons passed the sacrament. I know that where a branch has strong youth, it has the potential to grow and retention becomes easier."

Elder Burgoyne/Anderson - Dyker Heights 11 - Jan 2, 1995 - "ANCESTORS IN SPIRIT WORLD ENCOURAGE TEMPLE WORK BY CONVERTS - One of my new converts told me of a dream she had the other day. Her mother came to her the other day (she's been dead for 11 years), and told her to "go to the Temple and be baptized for her there." I quickly referred her to the Family History couple at the Center, and complete the work for her mother. What an experience!"

Elder Keller/Devereaux - Dyker Heights 1 Sp - Jan 2, 1995 - "RETAINING CONVERTS - MUST CONTINUE READING - Whilst working, we were impressed to stop by a new convert, and talk with her about her reading of the BofM. As we started reading with her, she began to cry. She said that the past 2 days were hard for her, and was praying for some help. When we dropped by and read with her, her prayers were answered. Her testimony of reading and prayer were greatly enlarged. She said she now knew she had to read the scriptures more often by herself. Retaining and reactivation is just the best."

Elder Regnier/Brown - Jamaica 11 Sp - Dec 25, 1994 - "WAIT - WHEN SPIRIT DIRECTS - Our commits for yesterday were not baptized as scheduled. I should feel a little unhappy. But I'm actually content with their decision to wait a few extra days, as this will secure their retention. 3 more souls to Christ."

Elder Roberts/Niepraschk - Plainview 11 - Dec 12, 1994 - "CONVERT RECEIVES AARONIC PRIESTHOOD AT FONT - BAPTIZES SON - Luis was baptized yesterday. As soon as he was baptized, he came out of the water, was confirmed, and ordained a Priest in the Aaronic Priesthood. He then went back into the water and baptized his son. It was wonderful. It really meant a lot to both them and all the members attending. It was very spiritual. It was good to see the look on the faces of the other families especially those women with non member husbands. That is exactly what they want. The Bishopric were all there and were excited with this form of retention by family members."

Elder & Sister McMillan - Staten Island - Dec 11, 1994 - "COUPLE RETAIN CONVERTS BY ACCOMPANYING THEM TO TEMPLE - The highlight of our mission came on December 3, when we had the privilege of accompanying 3 sisters, from our branch through the Washington DC Temple to receive the most precious gift they will ever receive. We are grateful that our mission president allowed us to accompany them and share their joy as they received their endowment. As we rounded the bend in the highway and they caught their first glimpse of the Temple, you could feel how breathtaking it was for them. They thrilled at each new experience within the Temple walls. Some of the comments they made were "I feel like I'm in Heaven", "I don't want to leave, I feel so warm and peaceful", "I just want to gather up my 6 children and come here and stay", "I don't ever want to make another mistake." One sister compared the feeling as indescribable, as the feeling of delivering your first baby and the special feeling when it is placed on your stomach. She said "This is even more special."

Elder Robb Anderson/Perez - Midwood 11 Sp - Dec 11, 1994 - "PARENTS ACCOMPANY SON’S CONVERTS THROUGH TEMPLE AT 12 MONTHS - Saturday, my parents met my first baptized family at the Washington DC Temple and were able to meet them again in the Celestial room after the session. They were all so excited. Lilly called me as soon as she got back to NY, to tell me how much she loved the Temple and my parents, and how special it was to be taken through the Temple by them. The two most sacred ordinances in the church conducted by our family, including baptism. Pres., this is true retention, we are responsible for our converts as you have said, until they receive the ordinances of the Temple, and that Baptism is only the beginning. Thank you."

Elder Campbell/Gerald Davis - Park Slope - Dec 12, 1994 - "CONVERT TO BAPTIZE WIFE - Tit has been a member for only a week. He's working so hard to convince his wife to be baptized. He was interviewed yesterday to receive the priesthood next week. He's excited to pass the sacrament and baptize his wife soon. He called the Branch Mission Leader and Branch President to find out how often the Branch goes to the Temple, how much it costs and how soon he can go. At church yesterday, he said, "Can you come over as often as possible, I need to continue to read the BofM, I can see the Devil working on me, and I don't want to ever fall away." He is a true convert focused on being retained and the Temple."

Elder Stowell/Lewis AP's - Plainview 11 Ward - Dec 12, 1994 - "LEGILLOU FAMILY SEALED IN TEMPLE - This has been one of the best weeks of my mission. A husband and wife, I found, taught and baptized, went to the Washington DC Temple. Jimmy and Lilly were sealed together for time and all eternity. When I gave my Farewell talk, I said that I knew families were waiting for me here. They were one of those families. One of their sons is scheduled to be baptized at Christmas. I love these people as if they were my own family. On Sunday, we baptized the 4 children of a lady in Elmhurst. It was the Lord who prepared them. I merely invited them to join their mother as a family. I love this work."

NOTE: Jimmy has been Counselor in Branch Presidency since 7/95. Does all District printing at his shop.

Elder Corey Davis/Christensen - Dec 12, 1994 - "CONVERT TEACH PRIESTHOOD LESSON - Raul, baptized 3 weeks ago, gave the Priesthood lesson. I was shocked last Sunday, when they asked him to give it. He's only been to church 4 times, but he did well. It was so gratifying to see the members helping the teacher learn as he taught."

Elder Supinger/Liston - Bushwick 11 Sp - Dec 12, 1994 - "CONVERTS BLESS SACRAMENT, GIVE TALKS, VISIT TEMPLE - Yesterday in church, 2 of our converts blessed the sacrament, after receiving the priesthood last Sunday. Then they both gave talks in Sacrament meeting about the Aaronic Priesthood. They did so good. It almost brought tears to my eyes, when they bore testimony that the church was true and that the BofM was translated by a true prophet of God. A few months ago, these young men didn't know each other and were doing things of the world, but now to see them at Church, in a white shirt and tie, carrying their BofM! One of them the day before had been to the Temple doing baptisms for the Dead. I asked him what he was going to do with the big picture of the temple he had brought back. He said "Put it right in front of his room, so all his friends could see it when they came over! He is going on a mission in 2 years time. He can't wait. That's what being a missionary is all about. Joy!"

Elder Liston/Supinger - Bushwick 11 Sp - Nov 14, 1994 - "REACTIVATION THROUGH SPLITS and RETENTION THROUGH MID-WEEK ACTIVITIES - The branch is making progress. We have organized an activity every Saturday from 12 to 1.30 pm, to have all the missionaries and leaders meet together and go on splits to look up the inactives and families in each Family Support Group. The whole purpose of the activity is to retain the members. We are really excited. Also every Wednesday evening, we have all the new members come to the chapel and we give the new member discussions. We had 3 recent converts of August and September, that fell away, come last week and more will be returning this Wednesday evening."

Elder Oslund/Savage - Staten Island 11 Sp - Nov 13, 1995 - "CONVERSION BRINGS CHANGE IN BEHAVIOR - After his baptism, he told me how good he felt inside. A few days later, he was walking down the street and saw a garbage can that had fallen over. He told me he cleaned it all up, without anyone asking him to do so. The Lord had changed his thinking. "A few days ago, I would have kicked the trash down the street." He now feels like a different person and acts like it too."

Elder Roberts/Leonard - Plainview 11 Ward - Nov 14, 1994 - "CONVERTS ALL ACTIVE AND PARTICIPATING - At church this week, all the strongest people I have baptized were there this week for the Primary Sacrament Meeting presentation. Louise and her whole family were there. Bonnie brought her mother to see her son in the program. Lawrence had his first week with the priesthood and he is also a teacher for the young men's. It made my 5 months here worth it! The spirit was so strong as I sat in the back and looked around."

Elder Harris/Parker - Rego Park 1 - Nov 7, 1994 - "CONVERT LACING LEADS TO FAMILIES - I've seen a few families come unto Christ, but none like this one. They are so strong and excited to be active, life long members. Each time we went over there we felt so great. We started with Irma, then we went back and laced Marie, went back and laced Caroline and Valerie, went back and laced Lupmilla and Judy. The great thing is that there are still many more in the same house. We committed Irma and Maria's sister and husband to hear the discussions after the baptism. They loved it, felt the spirit very strong and are excited to become a part of the big family. The baptism was the icing on the cake. We had one of our new converts of 3 months baptize them. We had 5 different Melchizedek holders perform the ordinations. I love involving the members. That was the first time since I've been here, that the Branch President (Miranda), attended the baptism. I know the reason he did was because we got him involved. The member who baptized was glowing just as much as those that were baptized. We have truly implemented the plan of Retention + Reactivation = Conversion. I know that this is why we are being blessed! On top of all this we have committed an inactive family, the husband and wife are both RM's, and their mother to return to the church. They also want their 11 year old son to now be baptized. All these contacts came about through fearlessing. The Lord blessed us as we were obedient to the call."

Elder Reynolds/Rice - Dyker Heights 1 Sp - Oct 24, 1994 - "REACTIVATION LEADS TO CONVERSION - We decided to look up some inactives and began with Emma. She was not very enthused to see us let alone go back to church. She wouldn't even let us in, but we invited her to church, and told her how much the church needed and missed her. What a surprise to see her at Sacrament Meeting the next Sunday, and this time with her non member husband. All she needed was an invitation."

Elder Proffer/Davis - Rego Park 11 - Oct 15, 1994 - "RECORDS INDICATE INACTIVE - ATTENDS ALL MID-WEEK ACTIVITIES - WORKS SUNDAYS - One of our converts is Marcelino de la Merced. He works every Sunday, and has never been to church except for his baptism on his day off. He has almost completed reading the BofM, he goes on splits with us at least 2 nights every week and really "works" our investigators. He attends the Family Support Group each week and attends the baptismal services after he finishes work on Sunday. Last week he fearlessed 5 people on his way home from work and gave us 2 referrals. He is truly converted, but he doesn't turn up on any church statistics other than he is inactive and doesn't attend church. What a CONVERT."

Elder & Sis. Woodbury - Rockaway 1 - Jan 15, 1995 - "NEW CONVERTS AFFECTED BY DISTRICT CONFERENCE - District Conference was a spiritual experience for us both. Our spirits were stirred by private drama that others don't know about. I think of Ryon, who came in street clothes because he has no others. I'm seeing that he has a dress suit of some kind before I leave. I think of Terry Huggins, a tall, quiet black man who is trying to find his way in life. A veteran, he and I spent months trying to find him a job. Now he has a good job with the Post Office and is already up for a promotion. He was there, he comes alone, he says little, he doesn't know a lot about the gospel, but he knows about the Holy Spirit, and he is smart enough to go where he knows it will be.

I also think of Paul Morant, an active minister whom Elders Combs and Browning befriended by helping him carry his groceries. As they began their introductions, Paul explained that he knew much about the Book of Mormon, that he used it in his sermons, and both he and his wife's copies were well marked and studied. He was singularly impressed with the Conference and did not take his eyes off any of the speakers throughout. He praised the format of our meetings and the participation of it's members. Above all he was eloquent about the Holy Spirit of God that he felt there. It was for him a tangible force. He felt it he told me, as he stepped onto the parking lot; it grew stronger as he entered the building. When he stepped into the chapel, among the people, it was like a "force wave, so strong as to virtually overpower" him. Paul's testimony confirmed mine, President, and as you have taught us, that spirit generates a spiritual joy that transcends every earthly pleasure."

Elder & Sis. Woodbury - Rockaway 1 - Jan 9, 1995 - "BULLET FROM ADJOINING APARTMENT - SAFETY OF CONVERTS - Mary Fenty, a new member had her mother die last week. As I visited her to discuss arrangements, we sat on wooden chairs in Mary's inimitable seating area, prayed and visited. Forty Five minutes after we left, the building shuddered and a large caliber bullet from the adjoining apartment blasted through Mary's front room wall and into her apartment. It left a large hole in her wall, just above the couch, close to Del Parson's LDS painting of our Savior. Had her couch been more presentable enough to sit on, and had the shot been a little lower, one or more in Mary's apartment would have been hit, possibly killed. I stood where the bullet hit.

I marvel, President, how these Latter-day Saints persevere in this ambiance of constant threat. We missionaries eventually return to a measure of civilization. But one attractive sister here, Kim White, walks from the subway to her home each night whispering a constant prayer aloud and with her fingers curled around two cans of Mace in each coat pocket. She has been beaten, and three of her neighborhood friends have been raped. We, along with you plan for, and pray for the protection of all our saints in this city. And they are protected. They live in this world, as the bullet hole in Mary's wall certifies, but for the most part they enjoy a degree of safety and serenity that their neighbors never acquire. They are quick to testify that their tithing, their Temple covenants, their gift to them of the Holy Spirit, humble ways, they strive to live on God's earth but not in Satan's world.

Their faith is so strong in following your admonition, that they are to remain, not to move away, that they are to build up Zion here in this wonderful city. They must become the strength of the church to build upon a strong, solid, Priesthood base. This faith and the blessings and protection they receive, are a constant inspiration to us all."

Elder & Sis. Woodbury - Rockaway 1 - Dec 25, 1994 - "HOLY SPIRIT ACCOMPANIES COUPLE - A WITNESS TO CONVERTS - Margaret and I felt the spirit powerfully as we taught Kim White, who is 26, beautiful and working as a New York actress in the movies. Although newly baptized, to our surprise she said: "I'm not sure how it feels to be filled with the spirit." We explained it to her by reading Galatians 5:22. Then digging for understanding and the power to express it, she said, "Ah, I see it now. That's the spirit that I sense in you and Sister Woodbury."

We honestly didn't know what she meant. We're just a couple of itinerant players, waiting for the curtain to go up. But she continued: "It's real. I feel it whenever I'm around you. I just didn't know what it was. I'm a nervous person. I live alone, with only my baby sister Kitchika and my cat. I dislike the dark. When I hear a creak in the house, or the wind blowing as it often does, I imagine dreadful things. But you bring with you a surge of spirit, a power of confidence, a knowledge that nothing can hurt me, a joyful richness of well being. I cherish it. That’s the way I feel when the young Elders come. You and they both bring a presence into my home that I never feel from others. That spirit continues to linger after you've gone. Through the evening and night. I know I'm going to sleep well after missionaries come to my house, for you leave a feeling that I now understand is the Holy Ghost itself."

I was so filled with glory, radiance; with that same Holy Spirit that she felt, that I could not speak. I watched my companion's eyes fill with tears. The three of us sat quietly, saying nothing more, savoring a massive outpouring of pure spirit that transported the three of us. As Claudia May, a recent convert always says, "I felt like I had died and gone to heaven!" We know this gift of spirit is not of our doing. We know it is the Holy Ghost, confirming and sealing the gospel we've taught and the testimonies we've expressed. But to be bathed in spirit is rare and holy, and we praise our Gods for certifying our message."

Elder & Sis. Woodbury - Rockaway 1 - Dec 11, 1994 - "NEW CONVERT ADVERTISES - HAS 5 ATTEND HER FIRST FHE - We had just given Tina Jordan the second New Member Discussion, ending with the commitment invitation to "organize and conduct a family home evening next Monday."

Tina lives alone. She runs her real estate office from her home. Her only daughter, Debra, died at the age of 14. Tina's husband ran off with a woman from Japan. Bur fervent and imaginative Tina believes that if living Apostles ask her to do something, God will open the way for her. So last night as we reviewed, she casually apologized for mistiming her first FHE, but resolved to do better next Monday evening. Puzzled, I asked if she had held it alone. "No" she said, "I just told the group that next week I would be better organized." I asked "which group is this and how many?" She said "Five!" "You mean you had five of your relatives come and share FHE with you?"

"Well, no," she apologized, "I just advertised and got only 5 people off the street, but next time I'll have more." Tina apparently not knowing that it wouldn't work, wrote with a crayon on the side of a cardboard box that each Monday night from 6 to 8, she was holding FHE, a gospel discussion, and that anyone wishing to share it with her was welcome to come. She taped it to her front window. She was late getting prepared, but right at 6 pm, a man from Trinidad, with his wife and teenage daughter, knocked on the door. When she was a little slow to open, he ran around the back and knocked again. He was anxious for FHE. After a brief introduction and planning for the following Monday, as they were leaving, two other young women knocked on her door. Now she has 5 for next Monday. How many more may come.

Next time any member says that they can't hold FHE, because it is too hard to get all the family together, I will relay this story and ask "Have you tried advertising?"

It turned out that Ryon was not hit by any bullets, although the bullet holes were so numerous in his jacket and trousers that the police confiscated them for evidence. But of course his friend was killed, on the spot, before his eyes. He then began the process of rounding up other friends to return the assault on that gang. His mother however managed to ship him here to Far Rockaway to live with his aunt, Claudia May, whose Temple Recommend you signed last week.

From her and others, Ryon learned about the Restored Gospel. He has committed to it all the way. For the rest of his talk, he testified about how the gospel has changed his life. He paid high honor to Elder Flamm and Combs, who taught him; to the Branch for accepting and encouraging him; to Sister Woodbury and me for teaching him and treating him with love and respect. But most of all, he thanked his Father in Heaven and the Savior for devising a repentance process, and quelling his desire for revenge, and for filling him with a sense of peace, security, well-being, and self worth that he has never known before. He had previously fathered a child in Indiana, and he is determined to "do right" by the mother, by marrying her when he is able, and to support the baby. He would like to serve a mission, if ever permitted. He has made up his mind to finish this last year if high school properly, and he has received only A's and B's so far, an unprecedented achievement for him. This Christmas he will return to Indiana to visit his mother, and he hopes to bring she and their family into the church.

His simple graphic account was deeply moving. Noone stirred for moments after he sat down, but our hearts were full of love, respect and admiration for him and the way he is purifying a sordid life, and of love for the gospel Plan of Salvation, the great Plan of Happiness, that our loving Father and Brother offer to each of us."

Elder Erickson/Martinez - Bushwick 11 Sp - Oct 17, 1994 - "RETENTION OF CONVERTS AFTER MOVING - NEVER GIVE UP - We had a marvelous spiritual experience this week with prayer. Last month we baptized a family of 5, and then one week later they were kicked out of their apartment. We started praying for the Lord to help us find this great family again. We asked the Superintendent for help, but he didn't know anything. We even went to the school where the daughter attended, but they had no record of her. Last Sunday we fasted that we would be able to find them, and we kept praying every day. On Friday our answer came. We saw her nephew that lives with them, he was riding his bike on the other side of the street. We began waving and yelling at him to get his attention. He finally saw us and came over. He didn't know the exact address but he gave us basic directions to their apartment. That night we went there and began tracting every door on the block as the directions weren't very good. As we were about to give up, we saw her walking down the sidewalk with her two boys. Our hearts rejoiced, it was a great feeling and a true answer to prayer. They will now receive the New Member Discussions when they come to Church next Sunday and we are now going to teach the mother's older brother who lives upstairs. We are committed to the retention of our converts and have now found that it does lead to further conversions of family members, even extended members."

Elder Avena/Oslund - Long Island City Sp - Oct 16, 1994 - "RETENTION OF ALL CONVERTS - Retention is going very well. Five out of the 6 people we baptized last month all came to church yesterday. I called up Lorenza, the only one missing and talked to her. She wasn't feeling well, but we cheered her up and she felt our love and concern that she was not at church.

Our Sep 25 convert was ordained a Priest yesterday and baptized our two converts last night. Jose our convert of last night we only met last Sunday but he had been taught the first 3 Discussions in the Phoenix Arizona Mission and moved here. We reviewed these discussions with him, taught him the balance, interviewed and baptized him, all within one week. He will be the strongest convert I will have had. The power and conviction of his testimony. Thanks also to the teachings of those missionaries in Arizona."

Elder Bair/Cowley - Dyker Heights 1 Sp - Oct 24, 1994 - "CONVERT SHARES GOSPEL IN LAUNDROMAT - This Columbian girl that Matis baptized and I confirmed, called the other day and told me that her friend was baptized not too long ago, and how she was so excited. She is one of the best member missionaries that I have ever seen. She works in a Laundromat and shares what she has received with everyone that comes in. If everyone was like her, there would be more than 1 million people baptized each year.

Elder Cowley/Bair - Dyker Heights 11 Sp - Oct 23, 1994 - "RETENTION - CONVERT ENCOURAGED TO FORGIVE THOSE WHO OFFEND - Last night I called a convert that I baptized from my first area and she had been offended by the people at Church and didn't want to return. I talked to her and as we finished, she promised that she would go back and learn to forgive the people who had offended her.

Elder Binns/Hansen - Uniondale 11 Sp - Oct 23, 1994 - "CONVERTS GO VISITING TEACHING - The day before last transfer, I went to say goodbye to Lillian whom we had just baptized both her and her family (Rudy, Jonathon and Jennifer). Before that day she was concerned about doing her Visiting Teaching and that her companion had never called her to fulfill the task. I told her to go to her companion which she did last Sunday, but Lillian told her companion "We will go out this Tuesday at 5 pm." I was at her house at 4 pm to say goodbye and she asked me to wish her well on her first outing at Visiting Teaching. She called me later that night and said "Elder Binns, I was ready to share a scripture from the Bible with one of the families, but I had left my glasses at home and so asked my companion to share a scripture. It was the same one I wanted to share, John 3:5, I felt the spirit strong. I never thought to ever have an experience like that. I'm going to continue doing this and want to thankyou for your help in bringing this Gospel and all it's happiness into our house."

CONVERTS PLACE BofM SCRIPTURES ON NOTICEBOARD - Jocelyn, also a recent convert, who always brings investigators to Church is soon to commence Visiting Teaching also and Zoraida who is inactive right now because she has to work on Sunday, told me that she takes her favorite scripture from the Book of Mormon and puts it on the Notice Board at the Hospital where she works."

I love my new area. The first day we had 14 "fearlesses", by the close of that week, we added 11 people, we brought 2 to Church (one of which will be baptized next Sunday), had 3 inactives also back out to Church, one of which also gave us a referral. President I love this work and the association with the spirit.

Elder Kowalski/Hymas - DL - Brooklyn Deaf - October 23, 1994 - "INVITE LESS-ACTIVES TO RETURN - We did lot's of Retention work this past week and saw 2 less active members come back out to Church yesterday. I felt so good. Also one of our investigators brought 2 of her friends to Church. They loved it and planned to come back again next Sunday. Through our reactivation efforts by the missionaries we have noticed attendance increase from 32 a few weeks ago to 48 last Sunday.

Elder Savage/Majors - DL - Staten Island 11 Sp - Oct 16, 1994 - "NEW CONVERT ENJOYS PREGNANCY NOW, NOT ABORTION - Jocie who we baptized 2 weeks ago is pregnant and she told me if it wasn't for her converting and finding the church, she probably wouldn't have kept the baby. Now she wouldn't change it for the world. She is even going to name him Joseph if it is a boy, after the Prophet Joseph Smith. Isn't that incredible? She is the lady who had an abortion before. I told her that this baby will probably be an influential person. She said that God moves in mysterious ways. She and her husband then wrote out there testimonies which I didn't ask them to do. I have translated them on the back so you can include them in your journal because their testimonies are living scripture. Eddy received the Aaronic Priesthood and so did his Uncle Louis who we baptized a little earlier. The unit is growing now with 56 at it's count two weeks ago. We hope for approval of the unit soon. Now with the new Zone we are having much success.

THEIR TESTIMONIES - "My name is Marta Jocelyn Ramirez Mendoza. I was born on the Dominican Republic. I am 30 years old and have 2 children. Almost a week ago I was baptized. Now for the first time in my life I can say strongly that I'm happy I'm a member of this church, the church of God, the only true church without comparison. Of this I don't have the least doubt. I believe in God, I believe in His son Jesus, I believe in Joseph Smith and in the Book of Mormon. Also I believe in the Holy Ghost since I've received it in me and it will always be with me ever since my beautiful baptism. My life has changed drastically since I met the Elders and listened to the Charlas. I feel new and upon God I give all my thanks for this grand opportunity I've received to know better the word of God. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I promise to serve with honor, dignity and always with faith. These words leave my heart and I say them in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen."

"My name is Eddy Ernesto Mendoza. I was born in the Dominican Republic. I'm 31 years old, married and have 2 children. Almost a week ago I was baptized. I'm now a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day Saints, the only true church of God. I feel very happy. I read the Book of Mormon every day and I believe in it's scriptures. I also believe in Joseph Smith. Since I received the discussions and after baptism I have felt very different. Now I'm a happy man, a contented man and full of patience. If I could have known that I was going to feel like this I would have done it way before. I'm very grateful to God. This I say in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen."

Hermana Barlow/Bollman - Richmond Hills Sp - Sep 26, 1994 - "REACTIVATION - Sunday was such a wonderful day at church. We had 4 inactives (from 4 - 6 years of inactivity) and 3 strong investigators at church. I feel very blessed everytime I see all our effort repaid by the great paymaster."

Elder Stowell/Bair - ZL - Rego Park 11 Sp - Sep 11, 1994 - "INACTIVES PROMPTED TO STOP MISSIONARIES - President, I have no doubts, when you told us about Conversion and Retention being the key to doubling our baptisms or 200 souls per month. We fearlessed a lady last Thursday and went to look her up on Friday. We were standing outside her building and a lady stopped her car and said "Can you come visit me?" Of course we said Yes! She was baptized in 1971 in Colombia and is now living here. She has 4 children she wants to hear the discussions, join so she can become active again. We then went to visit with a member to let us teach one of our investigators in her house. On the way, another man stopped us, told us he was a member, and asked us to help him return to the Church. All these experiences took place in about 1 hour. I had goosebumps. D&C 128:22.

Elder & Sister Woodbury - BP - Rockaway Branch - Oct 8, 1994 - "TEMPLE PREPARATION CLASS FOR YEAR OLD CONVERTS - To teach the Temple Preparation Class to three members who have been members slightly longer than one year. For the first time they're pondering gospel doctrines on a deep level, the true nature of God, how we are like Him, His plan for our Godhood, the cosmic power of the Priesthood, the awesome meaning of eternity. Sometimes they won't let the class stop; they and I seize and savor the Holy Spirit that fills us. I was a Temple Sealer in the Provo Temple for 13 years before my mission, and thought I knew something about the Temple, but seeing it through their fresh eyes, I am truly humbled, awed anew by the profundity of those eternal ordinances.

Elder Binns/Degraffenried - DL Midwood 11 Sp - Sept 18, 1994 - "CONVERTS ATTEND TEMPLE AS SOON AFTER BAPTISM - Mansela, one of our new converts bore her testimony last Sacrament meeting about Temple Work and baptisms for the Dead. What a great experience, the spirit was so strong, and I felt happy to see her up there. They then gave the Baptismal Certificates to all our recent converts after Sacrament. I was so happy when they went up, because all 7 of them were there. Also Mansela is the Secretary of Seminary class and she comes from far away at 6 am in the morning. Also Lilian and Jocelyn are now Visiting Teachers. Delia and Ericka went after their baptism to a Fireside that night. Well President, you want converts and not baptisms, there they are!"

Elder Nicklaus/Mavy - DL - Uniondale 11 Sp - Sep 11, 1994 - "CONVERTS BAPTIZING CONVERTS - Last night I found out that my favorite investigator was baptized. The best part was that she was baptized by someone I helped convert. A new member baptizing a new member. It's the best. As I called her today, she was just writing me a letter to tell me how she felt during her baptism. Also to thank me for my part in sharing the gospel with her. Hopefully during my mission, I will have hundreds more experiences like these."

Elder Granados/Keller - DL - Dyker Heights 1 Sp - Sep 4, 1994 - "MISSIONARIES RETAIN THEIR OWN CONVERTS - I have just seen how much a missionary can affect his converts (Retention and Activation). We were working with two new converts who were strong but due to a 2 month vacation with all their Catholic family members, they returned weak and with doubts. After working with them we felt the only answer was to have the missionary who baptized them give them a call which was what they needed; to give them a push over the edge back to the church. They are now back on track and doing great. It works!"

Elder Bahr/Mills - ZL - Jamaica 1 - Aug 28, 1994 - "CONVERTS SHARE GOSPEL - NO FEAR - We just had our new convert tell us how she told a friend at work about the church and the missionaries and how it made her feel so good. She has felt like she is floating ever since her baptism. She was one of the people who we had to push to get her over her concerns and into the waters of baptism. She is now filled with such joy. Being baptized and reading the Book of Mormon has totally changed her view of life. I love to watch the gospel change people's lives."

Elder Moyes/Bradley - Uniondale 1 - Sep 11, 1994 - "ADVERSARY CAUSES SUNDAY MORNING CONFUSION FOR INVESTIGATORS - Yesterday we got to baptize Billie Quick but not until after completion of the battle of the year. Saturday night everything was fine. Sunday morning, firstly her daughter gets a sore throat. Then the ceiling in the bathroom began dripping and almost fell in. She got stressed and didn't show for church. We went to her house and told her about the adversary and unless it happens today it may never happen. We talked for about an hour and convinced her to go out to Plainview, watch a baptism, and decide from there. She juked her interview Saturday so we had to get that done. Elder Atwood talked with her for 45 minutes. She came into the baptism, saw a little girl baptized and she melted upon feeling the spirit. She then got changed and asked to be baptized. Thank goodness that we are on the Lord's business and that He supports us so well."

Elder Stowell/Bair - Rego Park 11 Sp - Aug 28, 1994 - "REACTIVATION LEADS TO CONVERSION - I received a call from a member in Jamaica. I taught his brother all the discussions and in the process reactivated him, Julio who has just been called as 1st Counselor in the Elders Quorum. His 2 children were baptized just after I left and his brother who has been studying the B of M and attending church, wants to be baptized now."

NOTE: These two brothers are active in leadership and have been through the Temple with their families.

Elder Chinn/Mike Jensen - Midwood 1 - Aug 28, 1994 - "REACTIVATION LEADS TO CONVERSION - When I first arrived here Elder Kowalski asked me to stop by and check up on some of his converts. He also made me promise to get Rosie back out to church. So about a month ago we stopped by to get to know her and now after just a few visits, she has been out to church for 3 straight weeks. She also has a few friends she wants us to teach and her daughter who just turned 8 came up and asked me if I would baptize her next week. I'm so excited. There are blessings that come from working with the less actives.

Elder Robb Anderson/Marchant - Uniondale 11 Sp - Aug 18, 1994 - "RETENTION OF CONVERTS THROUGH PHONE - As you gave us permission to call our old converts, my first baptism is now the Relief Society President. She's only been a member for about 10 months. I love the message we share. Sunday was our Branch Conference. Missionary work and the conversion of each speaker was discussed in every talk."

Sister Rowley/Nelsen - South Shore - Aug 7, 1994 - "REACTIVATION LEADS TO CONVERSION - A WHOLE FAMILY - Todd's baptism on Sunday was a neat experience. His wife Josephine and his sitter Kim were both baptized last month, so it's the first real family I've been able to see join the church. I look forward as they do to hear of them attending the Temple together."

Elder & Sister Woodbury - Rockaway - Sep 12, 1994 - "STRUGGLES TO REMAIN ACTIVE - We usually have about 30 people at Sacrament. Of that active group, in the last three weeks, we've had one senior woman raped in her own home, the wife of a convert leave him for another man, blaming the Church, a sister in a car wreck and three members in the hospital. But I know that the Lord is still among them. Some tithe when even their refrigerators are empty. One sister tries to be active even when bruised by an alcoholic husband. Our missionaries are pure gold."

Elder & Sister Woodbury - Rockaway - Aug 18, 1994 - "CONVERT RECEIVES BYU SCHOLARSHIP - EVERYONE HAS A CALLING - Here is evidence of the spirit in others - a black girl who a year ago was considered a loser, about to drop out of school to go with a boy, who now has admission and a 4 year scholarship to BYU, a choice student job and a commitment to become a Veterinarian. Or the branch's only Aaronic Priesthood holder who came to meetings in sweats, but who now is in a suit and white shirt and tie, to perform his duties with great seriousness? Or the inactive girl, converted in Africa, who is now a Counselor in the YW Presidency, or the inactive Melchizedek Priesthood holder who now is a Counselor in the Elders Quorum Presidency? It's especially spiritually pleasing to know that, for the first time, everyone in the Branch has a calling and that it's leaders are trained."

Elder Martinez/Erickson - DL - Bushwick 11 Sp - Aug 11, 1994 - "RETENTION LEADS TO CONVERSION - MISSYS TEACH NMD IF MEMBERS WON’T - Baptisms are great but so are retentions. We have had many baptisms in this area, so I take time to teach the first 3 - 4 New Member Discussions to each because the members do not. I then decided after your emphasis to us on Retention to teach the whole 6. I went to this members house and at the 1st NMD, I invited all in the house to hear it. From that I now have 2 commits, Sarita and Erika to be baptized on the 11th of September. I know the Lord will bless us if we do as you say that Conversions will follow as we are committed to Retention."

Elder Harris/Head - DL - Staten Island 11 - Sep 6, 1994 - "NEW CONVERTS STRONG IN THEIR CONVICTION - Our last two baptisms have been tested already. Shala's daughter tried to hand her the Bible instead of the Book of Mormon. She said No! She held up the B of M and said "This is what I need now!" Later we were with Fannie, a few hours after her baptism. Some family and friends were giving her a hard time about becoming a Mormon. She said to them that she couldn't answer all their questions yet, but that she knew the church was true, but more importantly she knew WHY!. My own testimony was strengthened through the testimonies of these two strong ladies."

Elder McPhie/Taylor - ZL - Midwood 1 - Sep 12, 1994 - "THANKFUL CONVERTS EXPRESS APPRECIATION TO PARENTS OF MISSY - My spiritual high came this week when I received a letter from my mother that had two photo-copied letters from wonderful ladies that I assisted in baptizing on Long Island. They told my parents how grateful they were to my parents for allowing me to come to share the gospel with them. They both said that the spirit was with me and they knew the truth because of that. That really was a personal boost. I love this work!"

Elder Nicklaus/Avena - LIC Sp - Aug 14, 1994 - "HOLY GHOST ACCOMPANIES MISSYS - Saturday we went to see some of our investigators. After we talked for a few minutes they asked us why they feel so good when we are at their home, and after we leave they feel so sad. We explained to them the difference between feeling the Holy Ghost and having the Gift of the Holy Ghost. It was a great discussion and they can't wait to have the Holy Ghost all the time after baptism."

Elder Savage/Martinez - DL - Bushwick 11 Sp - Aug 14, 1994 - "CONVERT’S LOVE OF BofM - MISSY BUYS HER TRIPLE COMBINATION - America was baptized last month, she is wonderful. She has read the B of M, D&C and the Pearl of Great Price, all in one month and she understands the doctrine incredibly well. She read the Liahona magazine completely. She wants to read more. She goes to every activity in the Church, 100% active for life (Retention!) She has lots of friends there. I then looked at her blue B of M and how used it was. I thought about the 1,000s of B of Ms actually published and how many are actually used let alone read. I then decided to buy her, her own new Spanish Triple. I love this work!"

Elder Martinez/Savage - DL - Bushwick 11 Sp - Aug 14, 1994 - "USE CONVERTS ON SPLITS - Frankie is a convert from last month. He goes tracting with us. He loves missionary work. He was hard to get baptized and he doesn't easily trust people, just like most New Yorkers. But he loves the gospel which is slowly changing him."

Elder Swalberg/Salinas - DL - Richmond Hill 11 Sp - Aug 21, 1994 - "A WHOLE FAMILY - The baptism of the Ortega family was the best. They were so happy. A whole family was converted to the gospel. It was so great to see their lives change. After their baptism, they both bore their testimonies. They were so sincere and sweet. We were all really touched. The Lord has really blessed us."

Sister Rowley/Nelsen - South Shore - Aug 14, 1994 - "FATHER NOW TAKES SON IN FOSTER CARE TO CHURCH EVERY SUNDAY - Todd who was baptized last Sunday, at only 13 has had a tough life. He's currently in foster care but his real father John Privitera, was baptized last May. Todd will now be coming to church with John every Sunday, which will be good as he is kind of lonely."

Hermana Barlow/Porter - Richmond Hill 11 Sp - Aug 14, 1994 - "NEW CONVERT’S ZEAL AND ENTHUSIASM - Sunday I was sitting in Relief Society and I looked over at one of the new members. She was sitting way up in the front and trying so hard to catch every word spoken. Then we sang the closing hymn, she can't read nor see very well, but she was trying so hard! It made me cry, to see how much she had embraced the gospel and was trying her hardest to follow her Savior."

Sister Jensen/Iverson - Little Neck - Aug 22, 1994 - "RETENTION MEANS CALLING CONVERTS TO ENSURE ACTIVITY - Yesterday as you instructed I called up one of my past converts, Bro. Hinds. He told me that he had just received the Melchizedek Priesthood and is preparing to go to the Temple for baptisms. His whole family was and is still against him becoming a member of this church. He is 62 years old. I also called 2 others and they are now going to try to arrange work schedules to be able to get to church on Sundays again. Happy Day!

Elder Barnes/Johnson - ZL - Richmond Hill 11 Sp - Aug 21, 1994 - "CONVERTS STILL ACTIVE - I attended a baptism at Rego Park and saw a lady that Elder Majors and I baptized in June. It was so great to see her, to see how strong she is in the Church and how her testimony has grown. I also talked to a convert that Elder Pena and I baptized in March. His wife is taking the discussions in Ecuador and will soon be baptized. It was so great to hear that. He will return to Ecuador in December, so that they can start their progress as an eternal family."

Elder Stowell/Devereaux - ZL - Dyker Heights 1 Sp - Aug 14, 1994 - "HOLY GHOST WITNESSES TRUTH - The lady we baptized last Sunday said she had previously talked with a lot of different churches, but never really liked what she heard. She said she felt something special when we talked with her and she just knew that the message was true."

Also another investigator came to church and had a great experience. She has visited almost every church. After Sacrament meeting she said "I'm through wandering from church to church. I'm going to stay here." She just needs to get married so she can be baptized. The children are all ready for their baptism on Sunday next. She has committed to keep coming to church after the children are baptized, so I feel good about it."

Elder Sampson/Williams - Dyker Heights 11 - Aug 14, 1994 - "ACTIVE PRIESTHOOD LEADERS - FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP - Now that the new Branch President has taken root, it seems that everything is coming back together. He gave us the green light to establish a Family Support Group from next Tuesday and he is committed to retention. He baptized our people Lordes and Verginia. We even now have a Branch Mission Leader. What more could a missionary want?"

Elder Ben Davis/Ward - DL - Jamaica 11 Sp - Aug 14, 1994 - "REACTIVATE - NO MONEY FOR BUS TOKENS - I know that the convert retention figures are rather disappointing. We called the Vasquez family Sunday morning to make sure that they could make it to Church. We offered to send a member by to pick them up. They assured us that they knew the bus system well enough to make it on their own. They didn't show, so we called them. The father explained that he was out of work for some time and they didn't have enough money for the train tokens for the whole family. We're working with the Branch President to make sure that the family always has a way to get to church."

Elder Platis/Burgoyne - Richmond Hill 1 - Aug 14, 1994 - "CONVERTS BEARING TESTIMONY - Nick who we baptized 2 months ago bore his testimony in Church for the first time after I did. Then a newer member of only a few weeks also bore hers for the first time. They expressed appreciation and love for us. We were all so touched."

Elder Savage/Little - Bushwick 11 Sp - Jul 10, 1994 - "LATER CONVERT NOW KEEPING EARLIER CONVERT ACTIVE - Venus, baptized 6/19 lives by a less active member who we asked to bring our convert to church. This was great for the first couple of weeks, then the less active stopped coming. Venus told me yesterday, "Don't worry, I'll work with her", so she called the less active and committed her to go to church this Sunday."

Elder Flamm/Cocco - Midwood 1 - Jul 31, 1994 - "CONVERTS ATTEND BRANCH ACTIVITIES - Maureen was baptized on July 24. She is doing great. She took her children to a Branch activity and now her son is coming to Church. It is great to see as he is 11 years old."

Elder Hall/Nielson - DL - Rockaway 1 - Jul 18, 1994 - "RETENTION BRINGS STRONG CONVERTS - Isaac Fordham (45 and Black) whom we baptized last month will be speaking at Sacrament Meeting next Sunday. Leon Patio (55 and fiancé to a staunch member), will be giving the Family Branch Evening/Home Teaching Lesson on Wednesday evening. Karen Meyer who was baptized last week with Leon, bore her testimony before she was even baptized. She cried as she told how she had searched all over for the truth and during the 1st Discussion, she knew it was true. The whole branch was touched. Leon also bore a similar testimony, received the Aaronic Priesthood and blessed the Sacrament."

Sister Reynolds/Nilsson - Staten Island 11 Sp - Jul 1994 - "JOY OF NEW CONVERTS - We met Sara, an African lady who the Elders baptized this Sunday. We connected very fast. I saw her at Church yesterday, she hugged me and her smile and eyes sparkled. She was so excited with what had happened. I could feel it."

Sister Kidd/Johnson - Flushing 1 Sp - Jul 1994 - "ROOKIE RETENTION - LADY AT CHURCH BAPTIZED BY MY BROTHER - The first lady I met at Church was a lady that my brother baptized 3 years ago, when he was a missionary here. I was so happy she was active and she cried when she saw me and realized who I was. It just made me realize how great this work is. What joy it brings to people and how they love the people who bring it to them."

Sister Washington/Bishop - Coney Island 11 Sp - Jul 1994 - "RETENTION OF CONVERTS - PRIESTHOOD - A person that we baptized 2 weeks ago came to Church Sunday. He had an interview with the Branch President and he is going to receive the Aaronic Priesthood next week. I was so happy to hear that. I felt like this is what it is all about, watching them continue to grow in the gospel."

Sister Ellis/Bird - Rego Park 111 Sp - Jul 1994 - "LACING OFF CONVERTS - RETENTION - We've been doing what you suggested about retention. I am sure that this really is the key for New York City. India the girl we baptized about a month ago gives us referrals. Your right, we will get referrals."

Elder Ben Brown/Nicklaus - Dyker Heights 1 Sp - Jul 1994 - "NOW A WHOLE FAMILY - Last night at the baptism of Ismael Santiago, I couldn't stop smiling. I could only see how happy his parents were now that the whole family has been baptized. I can now see them all in white again but sealed in the Temple. It helped me see our real purpose as missionaries. To start them on their path to the Celestial Kingdom. I wouldn't trade experiences here for anything."

Elder Cowley/Oslund - DL - Dyker Heights 1 Sp - Jul 1994 - "RETENTION - MELCHIZEDEK PHD - It's great to see the progress of the new members in Bushwick. It's getting stronger each week. Ray Arrayo (I taught him all 6 Discussions), now has received the Melchizedek Priesthood and is a strong member."

Elder Bret Curtis - DL - Richmond Hill 11 Sp - Jul 1994 - "LIVING COMMANDMENTS BRINGS HAPPINESS - Isabel decided that God was more important than Ruben, so she moved out into a new apartment so she could be baptized. We helped her move out and she was sad, but when she was baptized, you should have seen her face. You cannot deny this Spirit."

Elder Oslund/Reynolds - Bushwick 11 Sp - Jul 1994 - "REACTIVATE CHILDREN OF INACTIVE PARENTS - There were a lot of children baptized whose parents went inactive. They hadn't been to Church in months. My companion and I picked up 6 of them (all under the age of 13) and we went to Church. It was a long hard 5 hours controlling them and attempting to have them "feel the spirit" at meetings, with the trains and at church, but I'm glad they had the chance to go back to Church."