Yleiskonferenssi

It feels like this is a true ''sprint to the end'' because it seems like there is so much to do and so much to plan for and so much has already happened!! We're keeping busy. This past week we made the long drive up to Oulu for a Zone Conference, probably my last. They always feel like they are getting better and better. The main topic was Prayer and really, how we should be utilizing it and doing it better. I learned a lot. The mission has changed so much in the last few years that sometimes I really do feel old when I find out that I'm only one of a few witnesses to that. 

 

Pres. Rawlings asked a couple of us who are leaving to share our departing testimonies to conclude the meeting. I was the first. I can honestly say that I have never born testimony that felt so spiritually guided as I did at that time. I am so grateful for my testimony of the gospel and of the work. It has carried me through the thick and thin of the time I have spent here. 

 

General Conference was AMAZING!! The satellite transmision wasn't working at our chapel, but luckily it was being broadcast live through the internet, so we were still able to see all of it. I don't have time to say all that I liked about it, but, Elder Holland pulled off another classic and Pres. Monson's enthusiasm, facial expressions, testimony, and wisdom were very comfortable and enjoyable. Also, at the end of one of the sessions the choir sang, I Believe in Christ. I love how the choir sang it with such power and emotion, putting their very testimonies into the song. I noticed the emotions of many of them while they sang, and even in the room where I was watching. Go MoTab!!!!!

 

As much as I would like to copy my 20 pages of conference notes onto this e-mail, I won't. I have already been reviewing them and I urge all of you to do the same.

 

Back in Vaasa, we were able to meeet with our baptismal date and teach about the Plan of Salvation. The recent convert that was present, also one of my favorite members, was a big help in the lesson. Members are so important in this work! Without them, the missionary force would be experiencing major set-backs and slow progress. 

 

While finding, we found an awesome family! They were blown away that we could speak Finnish, seeing how they work with foreigners all the time. They were very nice and actually quite interested . . . but since they were putting the kids to bed, we have to go back some other time. I look forward to it! We've been praying to find more families! 

While up in Oulu, I found out that there is yet MORE traveling in my future. This coming Friday I will be headed to Helsinki AGAIN for some leadership training! Right before however, I have to hold a District Meeting AND splitz with some missionaries! Busy busy busy.

 

Well, I best be off. Sorry, it kind of feels like I didn't fill you in on anything . . . I'm still on a conference high!! How grateful I am to be enlisted in the mighty work of angels! I know it's powerful message of truth, hope, love, and faith will fill the Earth. I love you all. I pray for you as I ask you to pray for me.

 

Paljon Rakkaudella,

 

Vanhin Watson

 

p.s. Kiitos kirjeestäsi Seth!!! Thanks for the letter Seth!!!!! I'm going to write you back.