Home teaching and Christmas decorations!

Helping members string their Christmas lights

JulStjärnor 

 The six missionaries in Södertälje.  Elder Jones and I, Elder and Sister Lowry, then Sisters Faux and Chesley

 

Käre Vänner (friends),

This last week we have seen quite a few miracles.  They have been manifested in church attendance.  This week we had around 100 people in church.  This last summer there were always around 60-70 people in church.  And this last week there were a hundred!  It's fun to see so many people coming to church.  In Priesthood meeting we had to stand up because we didn't fit into the room we were using that day for Priesthood.  

   Winter is definitely coming.  Everyday is windy and cold now.  Most of the last couple days have been in the negative (Celsius) degrees.  There was a three day stretch where we did not see the sun because it was dark and we had clouds all three days.  We should be getting snow this week.  The days are getting shorter and shorter in regards to sunlight and winter is definitely upon us.  Winter this far north can be a challenge. A lot of people go into hibernation.  We don't see as many people as often.  Teaching is harder.  But we're up for the challenge.

    This last week some members invited us to go on splits and help with home teaching.  The calling of a home or visiting teacher is one of the greatest callings someone can receive.  The responsibility to be there for some of our heavenly fathers children is great. It's amazing how much trust God puts in our hands.   It is through home teaching that we grow but also that the Kingdom of God will grow.  I believe that to be the biggest difference someone can make in their ward or branch.  To serve as a loving Home or Visiting Teacher.

     It may seem a little premature but the Christmas music has been busted out.   We have been listening to the hymns made for the season and lots of JulStjärnor (Christmas decorations) are making an appearance.  These are star shaped decorations that Swedes hang in their windows during the Christmas season.  It's a representation of the new star which was seen on the day of Christ's birth many years ago.  It's exciting and very important to remember that is what this season is for.  When we keep the Christmas spirit we keep the spirit of Christ and his birth alive.  What a great time of year to reflect, ponder and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. The best present we can give the Lord is a humble heart and a contrite spirit.  When we have these things we can learn and grow.     

MVH,

   Äldste Jonathan Moe