This Is The Last Email
Monday, July 6, 2015
Well Mom, I’m not too in the mood to write because I basically feel like I’ll be able to explain things better in person. I just wanted you to know that today at 2:00 we have changes (transfers), and then I think I will have my interview with President Chavez.
Afterward, I believe we have one day to see everyone for one last time, and then we are going to have a big dinner with President and Sister Chavez. I leave pretty early Wednesday morning.
I’m not mad, I just haven’t been able to sleep the past few nights and I really would just like to save it for when I am back home. I’ll send photos when I can, but it’s going to be a lot better to just see me when I get there.
I love you all and I can’t wait to see you. See you all soon.
Love,
-Elder Hansgen
Monday, July 6, 2015
Well Mom, I’m not too in the mood to write because I basically feel like I’ll be able to explain things better in person. I just wanted you to know that today at 2:00 we have changes (transfers), and then I think I will have my interview with President Chavez.
Afterward, I believe we have one day to see everyone for one last time, and then we are going to have a big dinner with President and Sister Chavez. I leave pretty early Wednesday morning.
I’m not mad, I just haven’t been able to sleep the past few nights and I really would just like to save it for when I am back home. I’ll send photos when I can, but it’s going to be a lot better to just see me when I get there.
I love you all and I can’t wait to see you. See you all soon.
Love,
-Elder Hansgen
Another New Companion
Monday, June 29, 2015
Dear Everyone,
So, this week has been a stressful one because I have gone through two companions in a very short amount of time; Elder Mejia, and Elder Urry now. I’m the only one who really knows the area, so I have to make it look nice before I go, as well as find a lot of new people for Elder Urry to teach. I have faith that I can pull it off. It’s going to be a little tough, but I have the energy to do it.
One more week working, and three days to see converts and members. I talked with Elder Walston, and we are going to be companions on the plane ride home.
I’m excited to see family and friends, and I want to make time for everyone. Hope to see you all soon.
Adiós,
-Elder Hansgen
Monday, June 29, 2015
Dear Everyone,
So, this week has been a stressful one because I have gone through two companions in a very short amount of time; Elder Mejia, and Elder Urry now. I’m the only one who really knows the area, so I have to make it look nice before I go, as well as find a lot of new people for Elder Urry to teach. I have faith that I can pull it off. It’s going to be a little tough, but I have the energy to do it.
One more week working, and three days to see converts and members. I talked with Elder Walston, and we are going to be companions on the plane ride home.
I’m excited to see family and friends, and I want to make time for everyone. Hope to see you all soon.
Adiós,
-Elder Hansgen
A New Companion (Sans Picture...)
Monday, June 22, 2015
Dear Family,
I've been good. I have a new companion again, so I have two weeks to show him the area. His name is Elder Mejia. He is from Mexico City. It's winding down and sometimes I really just don't know what to do in our area. I'm trying to just find people for him and leave it all looking good. I still don't want anyone at the airport. I just want some time to take it in and then see everyone after. I'll send a picture of me with my new companion when I get to the church from the WiFi there.
Love,
Elder Hansgen
NOTE: We consider it a privilege to honor our son's request for only his immediate household family members present when he will arrive at the airport. At his request, it will be only me, Shahbaz, Aneeqa, and Ryjel present. Thank you for understanding how he has completely lost himself in his work, as well as what an excellent missionary he is. He is taking very seriously actually having some time to reflect and compile everything important to him about his mission (debrief / closure), as well as a serious desire to compile his thoughts about what he would like to personally share with you. :) We love our missionary -- anything for him! ♥♥♥
Original:
Presidente,
Lo siento por no haberle escrito la ultima semana. No funcionó en el ciber donde estábamos y olvidé después de la reunión. Pero todo está bien aquí con Elder Mejia. Estoy tratando de ayudarle conocer el Área en el poco de tiempo que me falta. Estamos enseñando bien las personas que tenemos pero tenemos que todavía encontrar más. Estoy muy agradecido por todas las cosas que mi misión me ha enseñado y lo estoy meditando mucho recientemente. Espero que el Señor está complacido con mí trabajo y mis esfuerzos.
Gracias para todo Presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
I am sorry for not writing the last week. It didn't work in the Cyber cafe where we were, and I forgot after the meeting. Everything is good here with Elder Mejia. I am trying to help him learn the area in the little time I have left. We are teaching the people that we have very good, but have yet to find more. I am very grateful for all the things that my mission has taught me and I have been thinking about it a lot lately. I hope that the Lord is pleased with my work and my efforts.
Thank you for everything President.
-Elder Hansgen
Monday, June 22, 2015
Dear Family,
I've been good. I have a new companion again, so I have two weeks to show him the area. His name is Elder Mejia. He is from Mexico City. It's winding down and sometimes I really just don't know what to do in our area. I'm trying to just find people for him and leave it all looking good. I still don't want anyone at the airport. I just want some time to take it in and then see everyone after. I'll send a picture of me with my new companion when I get to the church from the WiFi there.
Love,
Elder Hansgen
NOTE: We consider it a privilege to honor our son's request for only his immediate household family members present when he will arrive at the airport. At his request, it will be only me, Shahbaz, Aneeqa, and Ryjel present. Thank you for understanding how he has completely lost himself in his work, as well as what an excellent missionary he is. He is taking very seriously actually having some time to reflect and compile everything important to him about his mission (debrief / closure), as well as a serious desire to compile his thoughts about what he would like to personally share with you. :) We love our missionary -- anything for him! ♥♥♥
Original:
Presidente,
Lo siento por no haberle escrito la ultima semana. No funcionó en el ciber donde estábamos y olvidé después de la reunión. Pero todo está bien aquí con Elder Mejia. Estoy tratando de ayudarle conocer el Área en el poco de tiempo que me falta. Estamos enseñando bien las personas que tenemos pero tenemos que todavía encontrar más. Estoy muy agradecido por todas las cosas que mi misión me ha enseñado y lo estoy meditando mucho recientemente. Espero que el Señor está complacido con mí trabajo y mis esfuerzos.
Gracias para todo Presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
I am sorry for not writing the last week. It didn't work in the Cyber cafe where we were, and I forgot after the meeting. Everything is good here with Elder Mejia. I am trying to help him learn the area in the little time I have left. We are teaching the people that we have very good, but have yet to find more. I am very grateful for all the things that my mission has taught me and I have been thinking about it a lot lately. I hope that the Lord is pleased with my work and my efforts.
Thank you for everything President.
-Elder Hansgen
I Eat Cactus!
Monday, June 15, 2015
***Our Elder didn't have anything to say to us today, other than the caption of the first photo in the slideshow below. Other than that, he spoke back and forth with our friend, Guillermo, from La Fountain Restaurant in Lehi while Aneeqa and I were eating lunch there yesterday. I'll copy that conversation below as it is the only information I have this week.***
Ian: ¿Como les van? Realmente no se que decir pero Espero que toda la comida es super riquísima. Tengan un Buen Día!! (How are you doing? I honestly don't know what to say, but I hope that all of the food is really delicious. Have a good day).
Guillermo: Gracias igualmente tu mama es una muyBuena persona Mis amigables toda tu familia siempre sonrientes dice que pleas en tres demands tienes q venir a comerte in burrito con Ellis. (Thank you. Your Mom is a very good person, and so is your family. They are very friendly and they are always smiling. When you get back then you have to come in and have a burrito with us).
Ian: Sí en algunas semanas voy allí. Sé que va a ser excelente. (Yes, in a few weeks I will be able to come. I know it is going to be excellent).
Guillermo: Eats bien cuidate nos vemos en Ian's demands. (Be careful about what you eat as all our food is delicious and we will be serving your wishes/demands).
Monday, June 15, 2015
***Our Elder didn't have anything to say to us today, other than the caption of the first photo in the slideshow below. Other than that, he spoke back and forth with our friend, Guillermo, from La Fountain Restaurant in Lehi while Aneeqa and I were eating lunch there yesterday. I'll copy that conversation below as it is the only information I have this week.***
Ian: ¿Como les van? Realmente no se que decir pero Espero que toda la comida es super riquísima. Tengan un Buen Día!! (How are you doing? I honestly don't know what to say, but I hope that all of the food is really delicious. Have a good day).
Guillermo: Gracias igualmente tu mama es una muyBuena persona Mis amigables toda tu familia siempre sonrientes dice que pleas en tres demands tienes q venir a comerte in burrito con Ellis. (Thank you. Your Mom is a very good person, and so is your family. They are very friendly and they are always smiling. When you get back then you have to come in and have a burrito with us).
Ian: Sí en algunas semanas voy allí. Sé que va a ser excelente. (Yes, in a few weeks I will be able to come. I know it is going to be excellent).
Guillermo: Eats bien cuidate nos vemos en Ian's demands. (Be careful about what you eat as all our food is delicious and we will be serving your wishes/demands).
Lorena And Her Family Are Baptized
Monday, June 8, 2015
Dear Family,
My week has just been preparing Lorena and her family for baptism, and also helping others come to Church.
Lorena is doing good. She and her husband have an appointment with the Bishop this Tuesday to talk with him. The Bishop just wants to answer their questions as new converts and help them have a plan for the temple in a year. She got baptized and confirmed, as well as her husband. The reason I said it was a surprise baptism for Vanessa is because we thought she was 7 when, really, she is 8. Her Mom was a little confused as well. She told us Vanessa was 7.
Love,
Elder Ian Hansgen
Monday, June 8, 2015
Dear Family,
My week has just been preparing Lorena and her family for baptism, and also helping others come to Church.
Lorena is doing good. She and her husband have an appointment with the Bishop this Tuesday to talk with him. The Bishop just wants to answer their questions as new converts and help them have a plan for the temple in a year. She got baptized and confirmed, as well as her husband. The reason I said it was a surprise baptism for Vanessa is because we thought she was 7 when, really, she is 8. Her Mom was a little confused as well. She told us Vanessa was 7.
Love,
Elder Ian Hansgen
I've Never Seen Anything Like This
Monday, June 1, 2015
Dear Family,
So, we are working super hard and have been just "dead" when we get back to the house. We get there, plan a little bit, and just fall asleep. I really feel like it's starting to get to me. I am super tired as soon as we stop working. Ha-ha!
I forgot to tell you about someone we met on Wednesday this week.
Her name is Lorena. She was a nonstop alcoholic for three years until we met her on Wednesday. A few minutes with her in her house was all that she needed to get up and dump her alcohol into the drain. She has been drinking two bottles of the strongest (but cheapest) alcohol you can buy in Mexico. People are just wasted after even smelling this drink. Well, she stopped and, after three days, she has been completely clean and off of it. Five months in rehab didn’t do squat, three months of Alcoholics Anonymous didn’t help either; but, the simple invitation of the Spirit in her home was enough to change her in a matter of minutes.
By the way, Lorena is going to get baptized this Saturday.
I love you, too, Mom, and I know that you have a deep love for me as well. If you didn’t, it wouldn’t have said so in my Patriarchal Blessing. I have thought about it a great deal and there are so many things that I am grateful for, but the biggest and greatest has been you. I love you, and I'll talk to you next week.
Love,
Elder Hansgen
Some Scriptures Our Elder Would Like To Share:
1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
Luke 22:31 ¶And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:
Luke 22:32 But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.
Original:
Presidente,
Tuvimos una experiencia espiritual está semana. Tenemos una nueva investigadora que se llama Lorena. Ella ha sido una Alcohólico por 3 años y el día que la conocemos dejo por completo el Alcohol. Estaba tomando lo más fuerte bebida y recibió las fuerzas para poder dejarlo. nos acompaño a la conferencia y recibió respuestas allí también. Es una mujer muy fuerte y nunca he visto algo así en todo mi misión. Es un milagro por seguro. Temblaba al dejar de tomar y realmente sufría. Pero se ve muchísimo mejor ahora que hace 5 días.
Gracias para todo su ayuda e inspiración para todos nosotros aquí Presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
We had a spiritual experience this week. We have a new investigator who is named Lorena. She has been an alcoholic for 3 years, and the day that we met her she completely stopped drinking alcohol. She was drinking the strongest drink and received the strength to quit. She accompanied us to the conference, and she received answers there also. She is a very strong woman and I have never seen anything like this in my whole mission. It is a miracle for sure. She was shaking when she quit and really suffered. But she looks much better now that it has been five days.
Thank you for all of your help and inspiration for all of us here, President.
-Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Buenos días presidente. Todo está bien aquí en el área. Elder Zamora y Yo estamos trabajando mucho. Vemos el Éxito a diario y todas las bendiciones al seguir el Espíritu. Procuramos seguir lo que él nos indique y estamos encontrando personas muy buenas. El área está revivificando. Estoy más y más feliz cada día sirviendo aquí por mis últimas 8 semanas. Quiero hacer un esfuerzo para cumplir con todo lo que el señor me ha mandado hacer aquí. Estoy muy agradecido por todo lo que me ha enseñado el señor durante mi tiempo aquí como también para las cosas que nos ha enseñado usted en las capacitaciones.
Muchísimas gracias para todo Presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
Good Morning, President. Everything is good here in the area. Elder Zamora and I are working hard. We see success daily and all the blessings from following the spirit. We seek to follow what He tells us and we are finding really good people. The area is revitalizing. I am happier and happier every day serving here for my final 8 weeks. I want to make an effort to do everything that the Lord has commanded me to do here. I am very grateful for all that the Lord has taught me during my time here, and for the things you have taught us in your trainings.
Thank you very much for everything, President.
- Elder Hansgen
***The pictures posted below are from a couple of Hermanas who have returned from the Chihuahua mission. They posted these pictures to Facebook and "tagged" our Elder in them. They are quite old (from 2013) and it goes without saying our Elder has changed a lot -- in more ways than one!***
Monday, June 1, 2015
Dear Family,
So, we are working super hard and have been just "dead" when we get back to the house. We get there, plan a little bit, and just fall asleep. I really feel like it's starting to get to me. I am super tired as soon as we stop working. Ha-ha!
I forgot to tell you about someone we met on Wednesday this week.
Her name is Lorena. She was a nonstop alcoholic for three years until we met her on Wednesday. A few minutes with her in her house was all that she needed to get up and dump her alcohol into the drain. She has been drinking two bottles of the strongest (but cheapest) alcohol you can buy in Mexico. People are just wasted after even smelling this drink. Well, she stopped and, after three days, she has been completely clean and off of it. Five months in rehab didn’t do squat, three months of Alcoholics Anonymous didn’t help either; but, the simple invitation of the Spirit in her home was enough to change her in a matter of minutes.
By the way, Lorena is going to get baptized this Saturday.
I love you, too, Mom, and I know that you have a deep love for me as well. If you didn’t, it wouldn’t have said so in my Patriarchal Blessing. I have thought about it a great deal and there are so many things that I am grateful for, but the biggest and greatest has been you. I love you, and I'll talk to you next week.
Love,
Elder Hansgen
Some Scriptures Our Elder Would Like To Share:
1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
Luke 22:31 ¶And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:
Luke 22:32 But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.
Original:
Presidente,
Tuvimos una experiencia espiritual está semana. Tenemos una nueva investigadora que se llama Lorena. Ella ha sido una Alcohólico por 3 años y el día que la conocemos dejo por completo el Alcohol. Estaba tomando lo más fuerte bebida y recibió las fuerzas para poder dejarlo. nos acompaño a la conferencia y recibió respuestas allí también. Es una mujer muy fuerte y nunca he visto algo así en todo mi misión. Es un milagro por seguro. Temblaba al dejar de tomar y realmente sufría. Pero se ve muchísimo mejor ahora que hace 5 días.
Gracias para todo su ayuda e inspiración para todos nosotros aquí Presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
We had a spiritual experience this week. We have a new investigator who is named Lorena. She has been an alcoholic for 3 years, and the day that we met her she completely stopped drinking alcohol. She was drinking the strongest drink and received the strength to quit. She accompanied us to the conference, and she received answers there also. She is a very strong woman and I have never seen anything like this in my whole mission. It is a miracle for sure. She was shaking when she quit and really suffered. But she looks much better now that it has been five days.
Thank you for all of your help and inspiration for all of us here, President.
-Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Buenos días presidente. Todo está bien aquí en el área. Elder Zamora y Yo estamos trabajando mucho. Vemos el Éxito a diario y todas las bendiciones al seguir el Espíritu. Procuramos seguir lo que él nos indique y estamos encontrando personas muy buenas. El área está revivificando. Estoy más y más feliz cada día sirviendo aquí por mis últimas 8 semanas. Quiero hacer un esfuerzo para cumplir con todo lo que el señor me ha mandado hacer aquí. Estoy muy agradecido por todo lo que me ha enseñado el señor durante mi tiempo aquí como también para las cosas que nos ha enseñado usted en las capacitaciones.
Muchísimas gracias para todo Presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
Good Morning, President. Everything is good here in the area. Elder Zamora and I are working hard. We see success daily and all the blessings from following the spirit. We seek to follow what He tells us and we are finding really good people. The area is revitalizing. I am happier and happier every day serving here for my final 8 weeks. I want to make an effort to do everything that the Lord has commanded me to do here. I am very grateful for all that the Lord has taught me during my time here, and for the things you have taught us in your trainings.
Thank you very much for everything, President.
- Elder Hansgen
***The pictures posted below are from a couple of Hermanas who have returned from the Chihuahua mission. They posted these pictures to Facebook and "tagged" our Elder in them. They are quite old (from 2013) and it goes without saying our Elder has changed a lot -- in more ways than one!***
Six Mondays Left!
Monday, May 25, 2015
Hey Mom,
I have been on for a while, but everyone has been asking me to clean their USB cards. I have been trying to do that for a while now and everything is going good. I didn’t have changes (transfers) today. I am going to finish my mission here in Villas del Real.
There hasn’t really been anything too cool this week. We have just been working really hard lately. I hope that you had a good time at Grandma’s grave.
Could I ask a favor for this week? I promise that I will write more next week, but could I have some time to just write the friends that wrote me this week? I have a few that I need to respond to that have been piling up for a while now.
We are basically just looking for cool people to baptize and I feel like we work super hard every day. Sometimes we get back and we are just out of it as soon as we get in the house. We had to stay the night in the Zone Leader’s house last night, too.
Anyway, tell everyone I am happy to see them in a little while. Love you all. Bye.
-Elder Hansgen
Monday, May 25, 2015
Hey Mom,
I have been on for a while, but everyone has been asking me to clean their USB cards. I have been trying to do that for a while now and everything is going good. I didn’t have changes (transfers) today. I am going to finish my mission here in Villas del Real.
There hasn’t really been anything too cool this week. We have just been working really hard lately. I hope that you had a good time at Grandma’s grave.
Could I ask a favor for this week? I promise that I will write more next week, but could I have some time to just write the friends that wrote me this week? I have a few that I need to respond to that have been piling up for a while now.
We are basically just looking for cool people to baptize and I feel like we work super hard every day. Sometimes we get back and we are just out of it as soon as we get in the house. We had to stay the night in the Zone Leader’s house last night, too.
Anyway, tell everyone I am happy to see them in a little while. Love you all. Bye.
-Elder Hansgen
Very Short Email Today
Monday, May 18, 2015
This is the very short email I received from my Elder Monday evening:
Hey, sorry -- I'll send some photos in a little bit. We had a meeting all day today with Elder Christiansen so we don't have much time to write today. I'll send some pictures later.
Love,
Elder Hansgen
Monday, May 18, 2015
This is the very short email I received from my Elder Monday evening:
Hey, sorry -- I'll send some photos in a little bit. We had a meeting all day today with Elder Christiansen so we don't have much time to write today. I'll send some pictures later.
Love,
Elder Hansgen
Eight Weeks Left!
Monday, May 11, 2015
Dear Family,
Well, I really enjoyed talking with all of you yesterday and I hope that Mom had a good Mother’s Day. I have a lot on my mind and that’s probably why I really can’t explain a lot right now. I’m super excited to see everyone, but also nervous. All I need is a little bit of time to organize my thoughts and then I can share them the way I am planning. I got to go now, but I’ll talk to you next week. Love you all, bye.
-Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Buenos días presidente. Todo está bien aquí en el área. Elder Zamora y Yo estamos trabajando mucho. Vemos el Éxito a diario y todas las bendiciones al seguir el Espíritu. Procuramos seguir lo que él nos indique y estamos encontrando personas muy buenas. El área está revivificando. Estoy más y más feliz cada día sirviendo aquí por mis últimas 8 semanas. Quiero hacer un esfuerzo para cumplir con todo lo que el señor me ha mandado hacer aquí. Estoy muy agradecido por todo lo que me ha enseñado el señor durante mi tiempo aquí como también para las cosas que nos ha enseñado usted en las capacitaciones.
Muchísimas gracias para todo Presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
Good morning president. Everything is good here in the area. Elder Zamora and I are working hard. We see success every day and all the blessings that come from following the Spirit. We seek to follow what He tell us and we are finding very good people. The area is starting to revitalize. I am happier and happier every day serving here for my last 8 weeks. I want to make an effort to complete everything the Lord has commanded me to do here. I am very grateful for everything He has taught me during my time here, as well as for the things you have taught us in our trainings.
Thank you so much for everything, President.
-Elder Hansgen
Monday, May 11, 2015
Dear Family,
Well, I really enjoyed talking with all of you yesterday and I hope that Mom had a good Mother’s Day. I have a lot on my mind and that’s probably why I really can’t explain a lot right now. I’m super excited to see everyone, but also nervous. All I need is a little bit of time to organize my thoughts and then I can share them the way I am planning. I got to go now, but I’ll talk to you next week. Love you all, bye.
-Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Buenos días presidente. Todo está bien aquí en el área. Elder Zamora y Yo estamos trabajando mucho. Vemos el Éxito a diario y todas las bendiciones al seguir el Espíritu. Procuramos seguir lo que él nos indique y estamos encontrando personas muy buenas. El área está revivificando. Estoy más y más feliz cada día sirviendo aquí por mis últimas 8 semanas. Quiero hacer un esfuerzo para cumplir con todo lo que el señor me ha mandado hacer aquí. Estoy muy agradecido por todo lo que me ha enseñado el señor durante mi tiempo aquí como también para las cosas que nos ha enseñado usted en las capacitaciones.
Muchísimas gracias para todo Presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
Good morning president. Everything is good here in the area. Elder Zamora and I are working hard. We see success every day and all the blessings that come from following the Spirit. We seek to follow what He tell us and we are finding very good people. The area is starting to revitalize. I am happier and happier every day serving here for my last 8 weeks. I want to make an effort to complete everything the Lord has commanded me to do here. I am very grateful for everything He has taught me during my time here, as well as for the things you have taught us in our trainings.
Thank you so much for everything, President.
-Elder Hansgen
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!
Sunday, May 10, 2015
We enjoyed our Skype with Elder Ian today. We talked about many things. We were lucky to be able to Skype for an hour and 40 minutes.
I didn't take notes, or anything like that. What really stuck out in my mind the most is how "tired" our Elder told us his body feels. He said after working extremely hard every single day for the last 22 months that his body is wearing out. He told us when he comes home, and the second he is officially "released," that he expects his body to completely break down and fall to pieces. He is very worn out, physically (but not spiritually or mentally). He also said he knows he only has eight weeks left in his mission and that, because of this, he works even harder every day because he knows it is eight more weeks to baptize eight more people.
We had a really great time. We shared a lot of good laughs. We were all really relaxed and enjoyed ourselves so much!
Lastly, our Elder made me make a PROMISE that I would let you all know he will arrive back home this upcoming July 10th. I know he is looking forward to seeing you all in person.
Della Don ♥
P.S. -- Enjoy the video I have posted after the pictures. It is Elder Ian bearing his testimony in Spanish. Have fun figuring out what he is saying in English. :)
Sunday, May 10, 2015
We enjoyed our Skype with Elder Ian today. We talked about many things. We were lucky to be able to Skype for an hour and 40 minutes.
I didn't take notes, or anything like that. What really stuck out in my mind the most is how "tired" our Elder told us his body feels. He said after working extremely hard every single day for the last 22 months that his body is wearing out. He told us when he comes home, and the second he is officially "released," that he expects his body to completely break down and fall to pieces. He is very worn out, physically (but not spiritually or mentally). He also said he knows he only has eight weeks left in his mission and that, because of this, he works even harder every day because he knows it is eight more weeks to baptize eight more people.
We had a really great time. We shared a lot of good laughs. We were all really relaxed and enjoyed ourselves so much!
Lastly, our Elder made me make a PROMISE that I would let you all know he will arrive back home this upcoming July 10th. I know he is looking forward to seeing you all in person.
Della Don ♥
P.S. -- Enjoy the video I have posted after the pictures. It is Elder Ian bearing his testimony in Spanish. Have fun figuring out what he is saying in English. :)
My Email Today Is A Mother's Day Gift:
Monday, May 4, 2015
Dear Mom,
Things are going great here in the area. We are already making big plans for May and June. In the Zone we need to baptize 50 people and it’s looking like a challenge, but the good thing is that they finally changed an Elder in my District today who was a really huge burden. I also have a new companion since Friday, Elder Zamora. I knew him from a while back, so everything looks like it’s going to go super well. The Zone is changing for the better.
I am super happy with where I am in life. I’ve never felt better, and I feel like things can only get better from here. There are so many cool things that our President has taught us during my time here. If I tried to explain it all I wouldn’t have the time to do so, but I am super excited to be able to explain it to you when I get back home.
I miss you all a lot every day, but it doesn’t distract me from the work. I only have a little bit of time left here and I need to make the best of it.
I really don’t know what else to say other than thank you for all that you have ever done for me. I had some close calls, but I am back on track; and now I know why, which is better than just believing.
I’ll talk to you on Sunday. Hope that everyone is doing good back home.
Love,
Elder Hansgen
Quick E-mail to Shahbaz:
Hey Dad!
I miss you all too. I'm super excited to see Mom on the 10th (Skype) and everyone else as well, but moreso Mom because it's Mothers Day. Love you all.
Your Son,
Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Las cosas van muy bien aquí. Elder Zamora está trabajando excelente. Ya estamos podando al área y encontrando milagros. Hay personas preparadas en nuestra área. Siento que las cosas van a mejorar mucho en estas semanas.
El districto cambio también y esperamos que mejoren y pueden hacer las cosas que necesitan para poder cumplir con sus responsabilidades. Me preocupo mucho las áreas de ellos y con los cambios que hemos visto siento que podamos cambiar las cosas para lo mejor.
Tuvimos 6 en La iglesia y una de ellas es una hermana en una silla de ruedas donado por la iglesia, tiene el Nombre y todo. No sé si ha dado cuenta todavía porque ella no sabe leer pero sintió muy bien en la iglesia.
También una hermana muy católica acompaño a sus hijos con nosotros y le gusto la clase de la sociedad de socorro.
Todo está bien aquí y estamos trabajando duro. Muchísimas gracias para todo presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
Things are going very well here. Elder Zamora is working magnificently. We are now walking the area and finding miracles. There are people who are prepared in our area. I feel that things will improve much in these weeks.
The district has changed also, and we hope that they can do the things they need to fulfill their responsibilities. I worry a lot about their areas and, with the changes that we have seen, I feel that we can change things for the better.
We had six in church, and one of them is a sister in a wheelchair that was donated by the church; it has the name and everything. I don't know if I have told you the story yet, because she cannot read, but she felt really good in Church.
Also, a very Catholic sister attended with her children and us. She liked the Relief Society class.
Everything is good here and we are working hard. Thank you so much for everything, President.
-Elder Hansgen
Monday, May 4, 2015
Dear Mom,
Things are going great here in the area. We are already making big plans for May and June. In the Zone we need to baptize 50 people and it’s looking like a challenge, but the good thing is that they finally changed an Elder in my District today who was a really huge burden. I also have a new companion since Friday, Elder Zamora. I knew him from a while back, so everything looks like it’s going to go super well. The Zone is changing for the better.
I am super happy with where I am in life. I’ve never felt better, and I feel like things can only get better from here. There are so many cool things that our President has taught us during my time here. If I tried to explain it all I wouldn’t have the time to do so, but I am super excited to be able to explain it to you when I get back home.
I miss you all a lot every day, but it doesn’t distract me from the work. I only have a little bit of time left here and I need to make the best of it.
I really don’t know what else to say other than thank you for all that you have ever done for me. I had some close calls, but I am back on track; and now I know why, which is better than just believing.
I’ll talk to you on Sunday. Hope that everyone is doing good back home.
Love,
Elder Hansgen
Quick E-mail to Shahbaz:
Hey Dad!
I miss you all too. I'm super excited to see Mom on the 10th (Skype) and everyone else as well, but moreso Mom because it's Mothers Day. Love you all.
Your Son,
Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Las cosas van muy bien aquí. Elder Zamora está trabajando excelente. Ya estamos podando al área y encontrando milagros. Hay personas preparadas en nuestra área. Siento que las cosas van a mejorar mucho en estas semanas.
El districto cambio también y esperamos que mejoren y pueden hacer las cosas que necesitan para poder cumplir con sus responsabilidades. Me preocupo mucho las áreas de ellos y con los cambios que hemos visto siento que podamos cambiar las cosas para lo mejor.
Tuvimos 6 en La iglesia y una de ellas es una hermana en una silla de ruedas donado por la iglesia, tiene el Nombre y todo. No sé si ha dado cuenta todavía porque ella no sabe leer pero sintió muy bien en la iglesia.
También una hermana muy católica acompaño a sus hijos con nosotros y le gusto la clase de la sociedad de socorro.
Todo está bien aquí y estamos trabajando duro. Muchísimas gracias para todo presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
Things are going very well here. Elder Zamora is working magnificently. We are now walking the area and finding miracles. There are people who are prepared in our area. I feel that things will improve much in these weeks.
The district has changed also, and we hope that they can do the things they need to fulfill their responsibilities. I worry a lot about their areas and, with the changes that we have seen, I feel that we can change things for the better.
We had six in church, and one of them is a sister in a wheelchair that was donated by the church; it has the name and everything. I don't know if I have told you the story yet, because she cannot read, but she felt really good in Church.
Also, a very Catholic sister attended with her children and us. She liked the Relief Society class.
Everything is good here and we are working hard. Thank you so much for everything, President.
-Elder Hansgen
My Testimony
Monday, April 27, 2015
Dear Family,
I don’t have much time left. I’ll send you an email that I’m sending to a friend.
1) What recent experience have you had that has really impacted you / what have you learned from it / even if it wasn't a crazy “impact-ful” experience. What's something that has really stuck with you and you've been thinking about recently (like in your readings or experiences with others)?
Response: All truth can be understood within a large set of truths. Joseph Smith taught that whatever question, or doubt, that someone had, in or out of the church, could find the answer if they understand the Plan of Salvation. What I have been learning during the course of my mission has been preparing me for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. I feel like that is one of the most impactful things I have been learning. Everything is temporal in this life, but there are some things that will be carried over in the next life. Our knowledge, family, and Character. So, we have a big responsibility to prepare ourselves, and others, for this event, which is closer than we can even imagine.
2) What has been your most favorite part about your mission?
Response: My conversion. Definitely my own conversion to the Gospel. Before I started preparing for my mission I really didn’t have a clue about anything related to the Church, Christ, or the Gospel. I understood a lot of things, but I didn’t really know how they were, or what they felt like. For example, I knew what the Holy Ghost was, but I didn’t really have a good idea of what the Spirit felt like, or how I could recognize it, and I certainly didn’t know how to let it guide me. Now I know, and I have a testimony of a lot of the principles of the Gospel, and I know how to search my own revelation, learn the Doctrine, and live the Principles.
I don’t have much time left. I have to go now. Sorry. I’ll send some photos from the Church in a little while.
Love,
Elder Hansgen
Monday, April 27, 2015
Dear Family,
I don’t have much time left. I’ll send you an email that I’m sending to a friend.
1) What recent experience have you had that has really impacted you / what have you learned from it / even if it wasn't a crazy “impact-ful” experience. What's something that has really stuck with you and you've been thinking about recently (like in your readings or experiences with others)?
Response: All truth can be understood within a large set of truths. Joseph Smith taught that whatever question, or doubt, that someone had, in or out of the church, could find the answer if they understand the Plan of Salvation. What I have been learning during the course of my mission has been preparing me for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. I feel like that is one of the most impactful things I have been learning. Everything is temporal in this life, but there are some things that will be carried over in the next life. Our knowledge, family, and Character. So, we have a big responsibility to prepare ourselves, and others, for this event, which is closer than we can even imagine.
2) What has been your most favorite part about your mission?
Response: My conversion. Definitely my own conversion to the Gospel. Before I started preparing for my mission I really didn’t have a clue about anything related to the Church, Christ, or the Gospel. I understood a lot of things, but I didn’t really know how they were, or what they felt like. For example, I knew what the Holy Ghost was, but I didn’t really have a good idea of what the Spirit felt like, or how I could recognize it, and I certainly didn’t know how to let it guide me. Now I know, and I have a testimony of a lot of the principles of the Gospel, and I know how to search my own revelation, learn the Doctrine, and live the Principles.
I don’t have much time left. I have to go now. Sorry. I’ll send some photos from the Church in a little while.
Love,
Elder Hansgen
Kinder Surprise Eggs Are Illegal???
Monday, April 20, 2015
Dear Family,
Well, this Monday (today) is pretty weird; I really don’t feel like writing at all and I can’t explain it. I don’t know if it’s because nothing really happened this week, or I just don’t feel like writing, but I’ll give it a try.
This week our Zone Leaders left and we got new Zone Leaders. We now only have one, Elder Walston, and we are still waiting for the other. Elder Walston worked with us Tuesday and part of Wednesday, and then went to work in Portales. We have been working in our area trying to prepare the people for May because it looks like we might not have people for April. The goal for the mission is 350 in May and, in our Zone, it is 50 converts. We have to really focus on the work in order to complete this goal. I only have May and June left to really work the whole month.
There really isn’t much that has happened here. I bought a “kinder egg” today. They are illegal in the United States, so I thought that was kind of funny.
We have a really cool family that we are teaching. The wife is inactive, and the husband is our investigator. They are Javier and Norma. They also have a daughter who is 8. We are working to get them married so we can baptize Javier.
Talk to you next week. Bye.
Love,
Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Está semana estuvo bien. Estamos haciendo algunos cambios y preparando para Mayo. Las personas se vean muy felices y estamos haciendo un esfuerzo para convertirles. Si somos más felices y animados las personas realmente pueden sentir si nos importan y preocupamos por ellos.
Siento que la zona ha ajustado bien con el cambio de Líderes de zona. Todavía estamos conociendo como trabaja Elder Walston pero todo está bien y me gusta su ánimo. Yo creo que la zona va a aumentar mucho en su trabajo si hacemos las cosas bien.
Recuerdo una vez que dijo si tenemos preguntas podemos preguntarle en las capacitaciones o en nuestro correo y he tenido algo que me ha llamado la atención. Tiene que ver con la Señal de la Paloma. Sé que el Diablo no puede aparecer en la señal de la paloma y que esta señal fue mostrado a Abraham y los profetas, especialmente Juan El Bautista, pero no se mucho en cuanto a ella. Más que nada quería preguntar si usted sabia más que me pudiera compartir. Gracias.
Todo va bien y siento que me falta muy poco tiempo y que quiero aprovecharlo. Gracias para todo Presidente. Por todo lo que nos ha ayudado en cuanto a nuestra actividad en la Iglesia y nuestro proceso de conversión.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
This week has been good. We are making some changes and preparing for May. The people look very happy and we are making an effort to convert them. If we are happier and excited the people feel that they are important to us, and we care about them.
I feel like the Zone has adjusted well to the change in Zone Leaders. We are still getting to know how Elder Walston works, but everything is good and I like his excitement. I believe that the Zone is going to improve in the way it works if we do the right things.
I remember that one time you said if we had questions we could ask you in our trainings, or in our letters, and I have had something catch my attention. It has to do with the sign of the dove. I know that the devil cannot appear as the sign of the dove, and that this sign was shown to Abraham and the prophets, especially John the Baptist. However, I don't know much about it. More than anything I wanted ask if you know more about this that you could share with me. Thank you.
Everything is going good. I feel that I don't have much time left and I want to take advantage of it. Thank you for everything, President; for all that you have helped us with in regard to our activity in the church, and our conversion process.
- Elder Hansgen
Monday, April 20, 2015
Dear Family,
Well, this Monday (today) is pretty weird; I really don’t feel like writing at all and I can’t explain it. I don’t know if it’s because nothing really happened this week, or I just don’t feel like writing, but I’ll give it a try.
This week our Zone Leaders left and we got new Zone Leaders. We now only have one, Elder Walston, and we are still waiting for the other. Elder Walston worked with us Tuesday and part of Wednesday, and then went to work in Portales. We have been working in our area trying to prepare the people for May because it looks like we might not have people for April. The goal for the mission is 350 in May and, in our Zone, it is 50 converts. We have to really focus on the work in order to complete this goal. I only have May and June left to really work the whole month.
There really isn’t much that has happened here. I bought a “kinder egg” today. They are illegal in the United States, so I thought that was kind of funny.
We have a really cool family that we are teaching. The wife is inactive, and the husband is our investigator. They are Javier and Norma. They also have a daughter who is 8. We are working to get them married so we can baptize Javier.
Talk to you next week. Bye.
Love,
Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Está semana estuvo bien. Estamos haciendo algunos cambios y preparando para Mayo. Las personas se vean muy felices y estamos haciendo un esfuerzo para convertirles. Si somos más felices y animados las personas realmente pueden sentir si nos importan y preocupamos por ellos.
Siento que la zona ha ajustado bien con el cambio de Líderes de zona. Todavía estamos conociendo como trabaja Elder Walston pero todo está bien y me gusta su ánimo. Yo creo que la zona va a aumentar mucho en su trabajo si hacemos las cosas bien.
Recuerdo una vez que dijo si tenemos preguntas podemos preguntarle en las capacitaciones o en nuestro correo y he tenido algo que me ha llamado la atención. Tiene que ver con la Señal de la Paloma. Sé que el Diablo no puede aparecer en la señal de la paloma y que esta señal fue mostrado a Abraham y los profetas, especialmente Juan El Bautista, pero no se mucho en cuanto a ella. Más que nada quería preguntar si usted sabia más que me pudiera compartir. Gracias.
Todo va bien y siento que me falta muy poco tiempo y que quiero aprovecharlo. Gracias para todo Presidente. Por todo lo que nos ha ayudado en cuanto a nuestra actividad en la Iglesia y nuestro proceso de conversión.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
This week has been good. We are making some changes and preparing for May. The people look very happy and we are making an effort to convert them. If we are happier and excited the people feel that they are important to us, and we care about them.
I feel like the Zone has adjusted well to the change in Zone Leaders. We are still getting to know how Elder Walston works, but everything is good and I like his excitement. I believe that the Zone is going to improve in the way it works if we do the right things.
I remember that one time you said if we had questions we could ask you in our trainings, or in our letters, and I have had something catch my attention. It has to do with the sign of the dove. I know that the devil cannot appear as the sign of the dove, and that this sign was shown to Abraham and the prophets, especially John the Baptist. However, I don't know much about it. More than anything I wanted ask if you know more about this that you could share with me. Thank you.
Everything is going good. I feel that I don't have much time left and I want to take advantage of it. Thank you for everything, President; for all that you have helped us with in regard to our activity in the church, and our conversion process.
- Elder Hansgen
No Transfers Today
Monday, April 13, 2015
Dear Family,
I'm fine. Everything is good. There are no changes. I don't have transfers. I'm pretty sure I'm going to end my mission here.
Well, I’ll try and remember what it is that I did in the last two weeks.
The most important thing that we did was prepare for Conference. It was super good. I really liked it a lot.
We have just been working really hard and kind of relaxing a little bit when we can. That’s why I didn’t write last Monday, because we went to a buffet and, Tuesday, we just didn’t really feel like we wanted to write because we had to work. Really, I can’t think of anything big that has happened, other than now I only have 12 weeks left. That’s the time it takes to train a new missionary.
A buffet in Mexico depends on where you go. If you go to an American restaurant it's American, but not very good quality. If you go to a Mexican buffet then its Mexican food. Ha-ha! I really can't explain it well. They use a lot of chili (powder) here. It's all somewhat spicy.
Both of our Zone Leaders have changes today, so we still don’t know who our new Zone Leaders are, and the Hermanas are going to be in a trio, so I have more to stress about. Sister missionaries, when there are just two, are alright; but, if you add one more to the group then things get a little more complicated because one always feels left out. So, we will see what happens with that.
Are there any questions that you have? I don’t really have much more to say.
Love You All -- Bye,
Elder Hansgen
Excerpts From An E-mail To Aneeqa:
My week is pretty good. We have been working hard trying to find new people to teach, like always. We are always looking and contacting.
The best thing about the mission are the people you meet. I really have come to know a ton of people here that I hope to have contact with for the rest of my life. I really am going to miss them...and the food.
My favorite part so far has been my personal study of the doctrine. I really can say that I have learned so much here in the mission, most of which is thanks to my mission President, Pres. Chávez. He is an ex-institute director from Juarez. That’s where there are a ton of members in México. It’s one of the central points of México. He has 20 years of experience teaching the scriptures and I really have gained a testimony of him through everything that he has done to prepare us for the future, and the second coming. It is more close than you can even imagine, and that is why it is important to harvest because it is time to prepare the kingdom of God for the second coming of the Messiah.
This is a little testimony. I hope that you can learn something from it.
Love you all,
Elder Hansgen
Excerpts From An E-mail To Shahbaz:
Yeah, it’s getting pretty close. I only have 12 weeks left (or two cycles of 6 weeks). I’m just trying to imagine that it doesn’t end and I can work harder. I don’t really want to go but, at the same time, I have been thinking about home a lot recently; more than I have my entire mission. I really haven’t had any desire to really want to watch movies, or play games, or anything like that until now. Ha-ha! I’m just dying to relax at home. I even forgot that I have a Google Nexus. So, I’m kind of anxious and, at the same time, I don’t want to go. I’m passing through a lot of different feelings in these last couple of weeks. Ha-ha! It’s all interesting, though.
We have already been in the 90s, but the weather changes a lot here. It just rained the other day so the temperature dropped back down. I hope that this next year there is a lot of snow. I’m missing it a lot. Ha-ha! Talk to you next week. Love you Dad.
-Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Todo está bien en nuestra área y también en el Districto. No tenemos cambios entonces podemos seguir trabajando al cien y continuar progresando. Esperamos prepararse para mayo y que podemos encontrar las personas adecuadas.
Estoy animado de trabajar los últimos 2 ciclos o 12 semanas con lo máximo que puedo dar. Necesitamos encontrar nuevos todavía porque las personas que tenemos todavía no están cumpliendo con sus compromisos. Queremos que nuestra área pueda progresar y tenemos un nuevo líder misional que es lo mejor. Él nos apoye muchísimo y estamos agradecidos para tenerle como líder misional del barrio.
Eso es todo para esta semana Presidente. Muchas gracias.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
All is well in our area, and in the District. We don't have transfers so we can continue to work at 100% and continue progressing. We hope to prepare for May and that we can find the right people.
I am excited to work the last two cycles of 12 weeks with the maximum that I can give. We need to find new people still because the people that we have are still not meeting their commitments. We want our area to progress, and we have a new Ward Mission Leader that is the best. He supports us a lot and we are grateful to have him as the Ward Mission Leader.
That is all for this week President. Thank you for everything.
- Elder Hansgen
Monday, April 13, 2015
Dear Family,
I'm fine. Everything is good. There are no changes. I don't have transfers. I'm pretty sure I'm going to end my mission here.
Well, I’ll try and remember what it is that I did in the last two weeks.
The most important thing that we did was prepare for Conference. It was super good. I really liked it a lot.
We have just been working really hard and kind of relaxing a little bit when we can. That’s why I didn’t write last Monday, because we went to a buffet and, Tuesday, we just didn’t really feel like we wanted to write because we had to work. Really, I can’t think of anything big that has happened, other than now I only have 12 weeks left. That’s the time it takes to train a new missionary.
A buffet in Mexico depends on where you go. If you go to an American restaurant it's American, but not very good quality. If you go to a Mexican buffet then its Mexican food. Ha-ha! I really can't explain it well. They use a lot of chili (powder) here. It's all somewhat spicy.
Both of our Zone Leaders have changes today, so we still don’t know who our new Zone Leaders are, and the Hermanas are going to be in a trio, so I have more to stress about. Sister missionaries, when there are just two, are alright; but, if you add one more to the group then things get a little more complicated because one always feels left out. So, we will see what happens with that.
Are there any questions that you have? I don’t really have much more to say.
Love You All -- Bye,
Elder Hansgen
Excerpts From An E-mail To Aneeqa:
My week is pretty good. We have been working hard trying to find new people to teach, like always. We are always looking and contacting.
The best thing about the mission are the people you meet. I really have come to know a ton of people here that I hope to have contact with for the rest of my life. I really am going to miss them...and the food.
My favorite part so far has been my personal study of the doctrine. I really can say that I have learned so much here in the mission, most of which is thanks to my mission President, Pres. Chávez. He is an ex-institute director from Juarez. That’s where there are a ton of members in México. It’s one of the central points of México. He has 20 years of experience teaching the scriptures and I really have gained a testimony of him through everything that he has done to prepare us for the future, and the second coming. It is more close than you can even imagine, and that is why it is important to harvest because it is time to prepare the kingdom of God for the second coming of the Messiah.
This is a little testimony. I hope that you can learn something from it.
Love you all,
Elder Hansgen
Excerpts From An E-mail To Shahbaz:
Yeah, it’s getting pretty close. I only have 12 weeks left (or two cycles of 6 weeks). I’m just trying to imagine that it doesn’t end and I can work harder. I don’t really want to go but, at the same time, I have been thinking about home a lot recently; more than I have my entire mission. I really haven’t had any desire to really want to watch movies, or play games, or anything like that until now. Ha-ha! I’m just dying to relax at home. I even forgot that I have a Google Nexus. So, I’m kind of anxious and, at the same time, I don’t want to go. I’m passing through a lot of different feelings in these last couple of weeks. Ha-ha! It’s all interesting, though.
We have already been in the 90s, but the weather changes a lot here. It just rained the other day so the temperature dropped back down. I hope that this next year there is a lot of snow. I’m missing it a lot. Ha-ha! Talk to you next week. Love you Dad.
-Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Todo está bien en nuestra área y también en el Districto. No tenemos cambios entonces podemos seguir trabajando al cien y continuar progresando. Esperamos prepararse para mayo y que podemos encontrar las personas adecuadas.
Estoy animado de trabajar los últimos 2 ciclos o 12 semanas con lo máximo que puedo dar. Necesitamos encontrar nuevos todavía porque las personas que tenemos todavía no están cumpliendo con sus compromisos. Queremos que nuestra área pueda progresar y tenemos un nuevo líder misional que es lo mejor. Él nos apoye muchísimo y estamos agradecidos para tenerle como líder misional del barrio.
Eso es todo para esta semana Presidente. Muchas gracias.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
All is well in our area, and in the District. We don't have transfers so we can continue to work at 100% and continue progressing. We hope to prepare for May and that we can find the right people.
I am excited to work the last two cycles of 12 weeks with the maximum that I can give. We need to find new people still because the people that we have are still not meeting their commitments. We want our area to progress, and we have a new Ward Mission Leader that is the best. He supports us a lot and we are grateful to have him as the Ward Mission Leader.
That is all for this week President. Thank you for everything.
- Elder Hansgen
No Email...
Monday, April 6, 2015
No email from our Elder today...or this entire week.
Monday, April 6, 2015
No email from our Elder today...or this entire week.
More Baptisms
Monday, March 30, 2015
Dear Family,
We have been pretty busy. I don’t have much time, but I wanted to let you all know that everything is good. I hope that Aneeqa had a good birthday, and that everyone else is also having a good time. I’ll try my best, with the little time I have, to explain a little bit.
The man we baptized is a reference that we got this week and everything went well with his baptism; the kid as well. Everything went well. The man is Alfonso, and the kid is Oswaldo.
Yesterday we had to go with our new Ward Mission Leader to take the investigators of the sisters to the hospital. They are kids, around the ages of 10 or 12, and they were overdosing on sleeping pills and aspirin. Everything was alright because we made it there and they started to put tubes in them, and stuff, so it was interesting to see the procedure.
I don’t have too much time, but I will talk to you next week. Adios.
Here is a new video from the church: http://www.mormon.org/easter
Love,
Elder Hansgen
***Below you will find a 15-second video that Elder Ian sent -- enjoy!!! (Pictures after video)***
Monday, March 30, 2015
Dear Family,
We have been pretty busy. I don’t have much time, but I wanted to let you all know that everything is good. I hope that Aneeqa had a good birthday, and that everyone else is also having a good time. I’ll try my best, with the little time I have, to explain a little bit.
The man we baptized is a reference that we got this week and everything went well with his baptism; the kid as well. Everything went well. The man is Alfonso, and the kid is Oswaldo.
Yesterday we had to go with our new Ward Mission Leader to take the investigators of the sisters to the hospital. They are kids, around the ages of 10 or 12, and they were overdosing on sleeping pills and aspirin. Everything was alright because we made it there and they started to put tubes in them, and stuff, so it was interesting to see the procedure.
I don’t have too much time, but I will talk to you next week. Adios.
Here is a new video from the church: http://www.mormon.org/easter
Love,
Elder Hansgen
***Below you will find a 15-second video that Elder Ian sent -- enjoy!!! (Pictures after video)***
A Little Testimony
Monday, March 23, 2015
Dear Family,
If there is one thing I have seen throughout my mission, that I have gained a testimony of, it is the last scripture. If we keep the commandments we will prosper in this continent. The entire continent of America has a special purpose and promise. It is literally Holy Land. It has been set apart for a special purpose in the preparing for the second coming of the Lord. I honestly think that Utah is one of the best places that someone can live, although the promise does extend to the entire continent. There are more people who keep the commandments in Utah. I have seen how people prosper in the land and it is one of the most valid promises that we have to follow. These are just some personal feelings but its amazing to me how faith can become a perfect knowledge. I know these things to be true because I have seen them.
Prov. 12:24
Prov. 13:20
Prov. 24:16
Isaiah 2:2-3
John 15:4-5
Mosiah 2:36-41 (verse 41 key)
1Nephi 2:19-20 (Number One Promise)
Love,
-Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Está semana trabajábamos bien duro para poder tener éxito y sentimos muy bien. La única cosa es que nuestro bautismo no se confirmó. Estamos en el proceso de buscarle. Su propia familia no le ha visto desde el sábado. Esperamos encontrarle Hoy o mañana.
Estamos viendo los planes para esta semana y sabemos que podemos hacer muchas cosas para ver los milagros. Esperamos que trabajemos bastante para pagar el precio. Queremos ver algunos milagros y confiamos en eso.
Todo está bien aquí y el districto también. Estamos aumentando en contactos y lecciones con miembro día por día y procuramos salir con miembros por la mayor parte del día.
Muchas gracias para todo presidente. Estoy muy feliz con la persona que he llegado a ser y también por todas las metas que aún estoy mejorando mi carácter diario.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
This week we worked very hard to have success and we feel really good. The only thing is that our baptism wasn't confirmed. We are looking for him. His own family has not seen him since Saturday. We hope to find him today or tomorrow.
We are seeing our plans for this week and we know that we can do many things to see miracles. We hope that we can work a lot and pay the price. We want to see miracles and we trust that we will.
Our district is doing well also. We are increasing in tracting and member-present lessons day by day and we try to visit with members the majority of the day.
Thanks for everything President. I am very happy with the person I have become and also for all the goals I have made. I am improving my character daily.
-Elder Hansgen
Monday, March 23, 2015
Dear Family,
If there is one thing I have seen throughout my mission, that I have gained a testimony of, it is the last scripture. If we keep the commandments we will prosper in this continent. The entire continent of America has a special purpose and promise. It is literally Holy Land. It has been set apart for a special purpose in the preparing for the second coming of the Lord. I honestly think that Utah is one of the best places that someone can live, although the promise does extend to the entire continent. There are more people who keep the commandments in Utah. I have seen how people prosper in the land and it is one of the most valid promises that we have to follow. These are just some personal feelings but its amazing to me how faith can become a perfect knowledge. I know these things to be true because I have seen them.
Prov. 12:24
Prov. 13:20
Prov. 24:16
Isaiah 2:2-3
John 15:4-5
Mosiah 2:36-41 (verse 41 key)
1Nephi 2:19-20 (Number One Promise)
Love,
-Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Está semana trabajábamos bien duro para poder tener éxito y sentimos muy bien. La única cosa es que nuestro bautismo no se confirmó. Estamos en el proceso de buscarle. Su propia familia no le ha visto desde el sábado. Esperamos encontrarle Hoy o mañana.
Estamos viendo los planes para esta semana y sabemos que podemos hacer muchas cosas para ver los milagros. Esperamos que trabajemos bastante para pagar el precio. Queremos ver algunos milagros y confiamos en eso.
Todo está bien aquí y el districto también. Estamos aumentando en contactos y lecciones con miembro día por día y procuramos salir con miembros por la mayor parte del día.
Muchas gracias para todo presidente. Estoy muy feliz con la persona que he llegado a ser y también por todas las metas que aún estoy mejorando mi carácter diario.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
This week we worked very hard to have success and we feel really good. The only thing is that our baptism wasn't confirmed. We are looking for him. His own family has not seen him since Saturday. We hope to find him today or tomorrow.
We are seeing our plans for this week and we know that we can do many things to see miracles. We hope that we can work a lot and pay the price. We want to see miracles and we trust that we will.
Our district is doing well also. We are increasing in tracting and member-present lessons day by day and we try to visit with members the majority of the day.
Thanks for everything President. I am very happy with the person I have become and also for all the goals I have made. I am improving my character daily.
-Elder Hansgen
Bloodhounds Are Super Strong And Huge!
Monday, March 16, 2015
Dear Family,
Well, this week was alright. We had a surprise baptism and everything. We found this Christian lady and she hasn't been baptized yet. She has six years in another church and they haven't even mentioned baptism with her; so, we told her, "Well, we can baptize you this Saturday if you want?" and she was baptized. There is a new mentality in the area right now. Our Zone Leaders are telling us that the only thing that matters is the "desire." If a person has the desire to be baptized, we just work with them to see if they: 1) Know a member. 2) Have come to church. 3) And have the desire to be baptized.
We have a few other people that we are trying to help out so that they can also be baptized. The only difference in our work this week is that we have been running around like crazy teaching these people what it is they need to know in order to be baptized. We have known all along that in order for a person to enter into the kingdom of God they need to be baptized, with the authority, and now we are just opening up our vision a little more. I think I am really starting to understand the role of the Millenium and, really, what it is going to be like. That is one of the things I am actually worried about is "How am I preparing these people for the Millenium?" and, also, "How am I preparing myself?"
Anyway, we are here in Centro today and I don't have a lot of time to write, but I'll send some photos from my camera later because I don't want to make a hassle here in the Cyber.
Talk to you all next week. Bye!
Love,
Elder Hansgen
Letter To Shahbaz:
Dad,
I miss you all, too. I really want to be there to see everyone, especially everyone that came from Pakistan, but I know that I need to be here right now. It's super good and I'm having a great time. More than anything, I am learning at a pace that is super advanced. I feel like it's going to be super easy for me to learn when I get back home with the study habits I have gained here in the mission.
Here is a cool story. I was with my companion and we went to visit a family that bought a new dog. It's a Bloodhound and it's huge. It scared the crap out of us and I was able to gain its confidence. It is super strong and everything. We took pictures and a couple of videos because my companion is super afraid of dogs. Ha-ha!
Alright, I got to go now. I'll talk to you next week. Bye.
Adios Bart!
Your Son,
-Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Esta semana ha sido muy bueno. Estamos esforzando para trabajar arduamente y ayudar estas personas acercarse a un bautismo. Estamos logrando mucho y tenemos nuestras mentes enfocados en las necesidades de ellos. Estoy complacido con donde hemos llegado pero todavía quiero mejorar. Tenemos muchas personas todavía que no están viniendo a la capilla y esto necesita cambiar.
He visto que nuestra enseñanza ha cambiado mucho gracias a que estamos enfocando en lo que impide la persona a comprender una verdad o que les va a ayudar acercarse más al bautismo.
El districto también está mejorando. Nuestro Obispo regreso de los E.U. y estamos preparando para trabajar mucho más con los miembros para poder ayudar a más personas.
Muchas Gracias para todo Presidente y estamos recibiendo la guía que necesitamos para poder trabajar mejor en nuestras áreas.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
This week has been very good! We are striving to work hard and help these people get close to baptism. We are achieving a lot and our minds are focused on their needs. I am pleased with where we are, but I still want to improve. We have many people who aren't coming to Church and this needs to change.
I have seen that our teaching has changed a lot for the better thanks to the fact that we are focusing on what prevents an investigator from understanding a certain truth, and what is going to help them progress toward baptism.
Our district is also getting much better. Our bishop returns from the USA and we are preparing ourselves to work a lot more with the members to help them help more people.
Thank you for everything, President. We are receiving the guidance we need to work better in our areas.
-Elder Hansgen
Monday, March 16, 2015
Dear Family,
Well, this week was alright. We had a surprise baptism and everything. We found this Christian lady and she hasn't been baptized yet. She has six years in another church and they haven't even mentioned baptism with her; so, we told her, "Well, we can baptize you this Saturday if you want?" and she was baptized. There is a new mentality in the area right now. Our Zone Leaders are telling us that the only thing that matters is the "desire." If a person has the desire to be baptized, we just work with them to see if they: 1) Know a member. 2) Have come to church. 3) And have the desire to be baptized.
We have a few other people that we are trying to help out so that they can also be baptized. The only difference in our work this week is that we have been running around like crazy teaching these people what it is they need to know in order to be baptized. We have known all along that in order for a person to enter into the kingdom of God they need to be baptized, with the authority, and now we are just opening up our vision a little more. I think I am really starting to understand the role of the Millenium and, really, what it is going to be like. That is one of the things I am actually worried about is "How am I preparing these people for the Millenium?" and, also, "How am I preparing myself?"
Anyway, we are here in Centro today and I don't have a lot of time to write, but I'll send some photos from my camera later because I don't want to make a hassle here in the Cyber.
Talk to you all next week. Bye!
Love,
Elder Hansgen
Letter To Shahbaz:
Dad,
I miss you all, too. I really want to be there to see everyone, especially everyone that came from Pakistan, but I know that I need to be here right now. It's super good and I'm having a great time. More than anything, I am learning at a pace that is super advanced. I feel like it's going to be super easy for me to learn when I get back home with the study habits I have gained here in the mission.
Here is a cool story. I was with my companion and we went to visit a family that bought a new dog. It's a Bloodhound and it's huge. It scared the crap out of us and I was able to gain its confidence. It is super strong and everything. We took pictures and a couple of videos because my companion is super afraid of dogs. Ha-ha!
Alright, I got to go now. I'll talk to you next week. Bye.
Adios Bart!
Your Son,
-Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Esta semana ha sido muy bueno. Estamos esforzando para trabajar arduamente y ayudar estas personas acercarse a un bautismo. Estamos logrando mucho y tenemos nuestras mentes enfocados en las necesidades de ellos. Estoy complacido con donde hemos llegado pero todavía quiero mejorar. Tenemos muchas personas todavía que no están viniendo a la capilla y esto necesita cambiar.
He visto que nuestra enseñanza ha cambiado mucho gracias a que estamos enfocando en lo que impide la persona a comprender una verdad o que les va a ayudar acercarse más al bautismo.
El districto también está mejorando. Nuestro Obispo regreso de los E.U. y estamos preparando para trabajar mucho más con los miembros para poder ayudar a más personas.
Muchas Gracias para todo Presidente y estamos recibiendo la guía que necesitamos para poder trabajar mejor en nuestras áreas.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
This week has been very good! We are striving to work hard and help these people get close to baptism. We are achieving a lot and our minds are focused on their needs. I am pleased with where we are, but I still want to improve. We have many people who aren't coming to Church and this needs to change.
I have seen that our teaching has changed a lot for the better thanks to the fact that we are focusing on what prevents an investigator from understanding a certain truth, and what is going to help them progress toward baptism.
Our district is also getting much better. Our bishop returns from the USA and we are preparing ourselves to work a lot more with the members to help them help more people.
Thank you for everything, President. We are receiving the guidance we need to work better in our areas.
-Elder Hansgen
Starting With A Clean Slate
Monday, March 9, 2015
Original:
Presidente,
Está semana fue mejor y estamos recibiendo revelación por lo que debemos hacer. Sentimos que muchos de nuestros Investigadores necesitan ser cortados y tenemos que encontrar muchos nuevos para comenzar de nuevo.
Ya estamos viendo éxito con eso y tenemos algunos nuevos que realmente están interesados en nuestras visitas. Estábamos perdiendo tiempo con algunos de los antiguos investigadores y ahora es mucho mejor. Estamos planeando todo lo que podamos hacer y tratando de mejorar nuestra enseñanza.
No solo fue nuestra área que estaba sufriendo de esta manera. También fueron las áreas de Los Elderes y las Hermanas. Estamos viendo la manera de recibir más ayuda de los miembros para poder aumentar las visitas con miembro y nuevos investigadores. Tenemos esperanza que ellos van a alargar su paso y apresurar su obra.
Todo está bien Presidente y estoy muy agradecido para todas las bendiciones que estamos recibiendo.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
This week was better and we are receiving revelation on what we must do. We felt many of our investigators needed to be cut, and we have to find new investigators and begin again.
We are already seeing success with this, and we have new investigators that are really interested in our visits. We were wasting time with some of the old investigators, and now it is much better. We are planning everything we can do and trying to improve our teaching.
It wasn't just our area that was suffering this way. The Elders and the Sisters were having this same problem. We are seeing the way to have more help from the members so we can enhance the appointments with members and new investigators. We have hope that they are going to hold to this step and press on with His (God’s) work.
Everything is good, President. I am grateful for all the blessings that we are receiving.
- Elder Hansgen
Monday, March 9, 2015
Original:
Presidente,
Está semana fue mejor y estamos recibiendo revelación por lo que debemos hacer. Sentimos que muchos de nuestros Investigadores necesitan ser cortados y tenemos que encontrar muchos nuevos para comenzar de nuevo.
Ya estamos viendo éxito con eso y tenemos algunos nuevos que realmente están interesados en nuestras visitas. Estábamos perdiendo tiempo con algunos de los antiguos investigadores y ahora es mucho mejor. Estamos planeando todo lo que podamos hacer y tratando de mejorar nuestra enseñanza.
No solo fue nuestra área que estaba sufriendo de esta manera. También fueron las áreas de Los Elderes y las Hermanas. Estamos viendo la manera de recibir más ayuda de los miembros para poder aumentar las visitas con miembro y nuevos investigadores. Tenemos esperanza que ellos van a alargar su paso y apresurar su obra.
Todo está bien Presidente y estoy muy agradecido para todas las bendiciones que estamos recibiendo.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
This week was better and we are receiving revelation on what we must do. We felt many of our investigators needed to be cut, and we have to find new investigators and begin again.
We are already seeing success with this, and we have new investigators that are really interested in our visits. We were wasting time with some of the old investigators, and now it is much better. We are planning everything we can do and trying to improve our teaching.
It wasn't just our area that was suffering this way. The Elders and the Sisters were having this same problem. We are seeing the way to have more help from the members so we can enhance the appointments with members and new investigators. We have hope that they are going to hold to this step and press on with His (God’s) work.
Everything is good, President. I am grateful for all the blessings that we are receiving.
- Elder Hansgen
Where Is The Time Going???
Monday, March 2, 2015
Dear Family,
Well, we don’t have changes (transfers)! Elder Hernandez and I both stay. I’m starting to feel like this might be my last area in the mission. I’m probably going to "die" here as a missionary. (It’s just a saying here in the mission -- not to be taken literally).
We have been cleaning up the area. We have too many investigators that just aren’t taking things seriously, so we decided to talk to them more directly and come to the decision of "save them, or condemn them." They aren’t really fulfilling any of their invitations, so we are starting again (so to speak).
We went to Centro this morning and ate at a buffet. It was pretty good. I haven’t eaten like that in a while. I also bought Aneeqa and Ryjel those hoodies that Aneeqa was asking me for. I haven’t really taken any pictures yet this week. They have basically just been of mission, stuff like meetings and papers – so, I don’t have any pictures this week.
I wish I was there to play around in the snow. When I get back there isn’t going to be any.
I have a funny story that happened this week. I was in a lesson and they asked me how much time I had in the mission. I told them 18 months, but when my companion started counting I really had 20 months. I kept telling him “no” but he was right. Supposedly my release date is the sixth of July so, technically, I only have four months left. I was super out of it when he told me that. Ha-ha!
I have been reading a lot lately the conference talks and I wanted to share one with the family in particular. It’s from this last conference by Elder Andersen called “Joseph Smith.” If you have a chance, read it with Aneeqa and Ryjel.
Is there anything that you would like to know before I have to go?
Love,
Elder Hansgen
Monday, March 2, 2015
Dear Family,
Well, we don’t have changes (transfers)! Elder Hernandez and I both stay. I’m starting to feel like this might be my last area in the mission. I’m probably going to "die" here as a missionary. (It’s just a saying here in the mission -- not to be taken literally).
We have been cleaning up the area. We have too many investigators that just aren’t taking things seriously, so we decided to talk to them more directly and come to the decision of "save them, or condemn them." They aren’t really fulfilling any of their invitations, so we are starting again (so to speak).
We went to Centro this morning and ate at a buffet. It was pretty good. I haven’t eaten like that in a while. I also bought Aneeqa and Ryjel those hoodies that Aneeqa was asking me for. I haven’t really taken any pictures yet this week. They have basically just been of mission, stuff like meetings and papers – so, I don’t have any pictures this week.
I wish I was there to play around in the snow. When I get back there isn’t going to be any.
I have a funny story that happened this week. I was in a lesson and they asked me how much time I had in the mission. I told them 18 months, but when my companion started counting I really had 20 months. I kept telling him “no” but he was right. Supposedly my release date is the sixth of July so, technically, I only have four months left. I was super out of it when he told me that. Ha-ha!
I have been reading a lot lately the conference talks and I wanted to share one with the family in particular. It’s from this last conference by Elder Andersen called “Joseph Smith.” If you have a chance, read it with Aneeqa and Ryjel.
Is there anything that you would like to know before I have to go?
Love,
Elder Hansgen
We Experience Miracles!!!
Monday, February 23, 2015
Dear Familia and Amigos,
I guess I’m supposed to try and give you all an update on what’s going on in my life. Well, for those of you who would like to know what I have been up to for the past year-and-a-half, this email is a good start but, just in case I can’t explain it all, here is a website my Mom is running that is pretty accurate:
http://elderhansgen.weebly.com
The thing that surprises me the most is the ability to speak in another language. I never thought, in my entire life, that I would be able to know another language. It’s really strange. I think that yesterday I really felt just how weird it is because there was a lady from Texas in our lesson and she was just “out of it.” I had to go from English to Spanish (for my companion) and from Spanish to English (for her). It’s strange to try and explain, but I was laughing when I was on Skype with my family listening to how my they would pronounce everything (Spanish words, that is). It’s almost second nature now. I just don’t look at it as something unfamiliar anymore.
Another surprising thing is I am pretty surprised to find out that our Patriarchal blessings are super-inspired. Take them seriously! They are blessings promised for obedience, and they really do come to pass if one is doing what he/she should be doing.
I love being able to read the scriptures and actually find some type of "evidence" in them. I’ll try to explain it, but it’s a little hard. They just make sense. If you don’t understand them, or don’t believe in them, it’s because you haven’t read them. I sincerely believe that whoever dedicates just a sliver of their time to really just sit down and read the scriptures will find out what I am trying to say. There is enough "evidence." I might not be able to share what I mean right now, but just know what I said earlier; if you don’t understand them, or don’t believe in them, it’s because you haven’t read them.
Most of all, I really feel like I have found some kind of higher knowledge, and I don’t say that to try and make myself sound better than the rest. I truly know there is another type of knowledge, or light, that one can ask for and receive. Everything that anyone ever learns has been given to them by another person, or another source. I really have been enjoying my ability to learn. I hope I never lose it, either. I enjoy learning a lot.
So, if I haven’t explained myself like you would have liked me to, check out the website that my Mom has running. Or, if you would like to, send me an email (ian.hansgen@myldsmail.net) and I’ll write back. I’m doing just great, and I am loving it here in Mexico. I’ll be seeing you shortly. ¡Cuidan se!
-Elder Hansgen
(Ian, not Ely) Ha-ha!
Alright. I got to go. Talk to you next week. Bye!
Original:
Presidente,
Está semana estaba bien. Tuvimos algunas experiencias muy buenas. Uno en particular es una larga historia pero voy a hacer lo posible para explicar el milagro que experimentamos.
Estábamos en la capilla después de los servicios de Villas del Real hablando con algunos de los Elderes de Portales y esperando el consejo de barrio. Mientras estábamos allí dos personas entraron la capilla para hablarnos. Una empezó a hablar en Ingles y su amigo también hablaba un poco de Ingles. Ella es de Texas y es miembro que se está activando y su amigo pertenece a portales. Nos contaron su historia cuando fuimos a visitarles y para explicarlo en pocas palabras Ella fue guiado por el Espíritu a venir aquí con Él para compartir el Evangelio. Ella nos contó que sentía como que todos nosotros nos conocimos en la vida preterrenal y que nuestro padre tiene un plan para este Hermano. Ella vino aquí sin papeles con él para dar un recurrido de chihuahua porque Él sentía la impresión a invitarle. Vinieron el sábado y ya están en Camino para ir a Texas otra vez. Pero enseñamos el Hermano y pusimos fecha para el 21 de Marzo. Sentimos algo especial estando allí con ellos. Fue una lección como nunca ha tenido en un buen de tiempo. Más porque tenía que enseñar en Ingles y Español. Pero este es una versión corta de nuestra experiencia fue algo magnifico.
Tenemos planes para enseñar el Hermano el miércoles en la capilla y vamos a hacer todo lo posible para ayudarle. Ya aceptó todo lo que le enseñábamos.
Muchísimas gracias, Presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
This week was fine. We had some great experiences. One in particular is a long story, but I’ll do my best to explain the miracle we experienced.
We were in the chapel after the services of Villa de Real talking to some of the Elders of Portales, and waiting for Ward Council. While we were waiting, two people entered the chapel to talk to us. One began to speak to us in English, and her friend also spoke a little English. She is from Texas and is a member who is activating her friend, who is in the Portales area. She explained her story when we visited with them and, to explain it in a nutshell, she was guided by the Spirit to come here with him to share the Gospel. She told us she felt like we all met in the pre-mortal life, and that our Father has a plan for this brother. She came here without papers to show him Chihuahua because he felt impressed to invite her. They came on Saturday and are already on their way to Texas again; but we taught the brother and set a date for March 21st. We felt something special being there with them. It was a lesson like I haven't ever had in a long time; more because I had to teach in English and Spanish; but this is the short version of our experience. It was something magnificent.
We have plans to teach the brother on Wednesday in the chapel, and we will do all we can to help him. He has already accepted everything we have taught him.
Thank you for everything, President.
- Elder Hansgen
Monday, February 23, 2015
Dear Familia and Amigos,
I guess I’m supposed to try and give you all an update on what’s going on in my life. Well, for those of you who would like to know what I have been up to for the past year-and-a-half, this email is a good start but, just in case I can’t explain it all, here is a website my Mom is running that is pretty accurate:
http://elderhansgen.weebly.com
The thing that surprises me the most is the ability to speak in another language. I never thought, in my entire life, that I would be able to know another language. It’s really strange. I think that yesterday I really felt just how weird it is because there was a lady from Texas in our lesson and she was just “out of it.” I had to go from English to Spanish (for my companion) and from Spanish to English (for her). It’s strange to try and explain, but I was laughing when I was on Skype with my family listening to how my they would pronounce everything (Spanish words, that is). It’s almost second nature now. I just don’t look at it as something unfamiliar anymore.
Another surprising thing is I am pretty surprised to find out that our Patriarchal blessings are super-inspired. Take them seriously! They are blessings promised for obedience, and they really do come to pass if one is doing what he/she should be doing.
I love being able to read the scriptures and actually find some type of "evidence" in them. I’ll try to explain it, but it’s a little hard. They just make sense. If you don’t understand them, or don’t believe in them, it’s because you haven’t read them. I sincerely believe that whoever dedicates just a sliver of their time to really just sit down and read the scriptures will find out what I am trying to say. There is enough "evidence." I might not be able to share what I mean right now, but just know what I said earlier; if you don’t understand them, or don’t believe in them, it’s because you haven’t read them.
Most of all, I really feel like I have found some kind of higher knowledge, and I don’t say that to try and make myself sound better than the rest. I truly know there is another type of knowledge, or light, that one can ask for and receive. Everything that anyone ever learns has been given to them by another person, or another source. I really have been enjoying my ability to learn. I hope I never lose it, either. I enjoy learning a lot.
So, if I haven’t explained myself like you would have liked me to, check out the website that my Mom has running. Or, if you would like to, send me an email (ian.hansgen@myldsmail.net) and I’ll write back. I’m doing just great, and I am loving it here in Mexico. I’ll be seeing you shortly. ¡Cuidan se!
-Elder Hansgen
(Ian, not Ely) Ha-ha!
Alright. I got to go. Talk to you next week. Bye!
Original:
Presidente,
Está semana estaba bien. Tuvimos algunas experiencias muy buenas. Uno en particular es una larga historia pero voy a hacer lo posible para explicar el milagro que experimentamos.
Estábamos en la capilla después de los servicios de Villas del Real hablando con algunos de los Elderes de Portales y esperando el consejo de barrio. Mientras estábamos allí dos personas entraron la capilla para hablarnos. Una empezó a hablar en Ingles y su amigo también hablaba un poco de Ingles. Ella es de Texas y es miembro que se está activando y su amigo pertenece a portales. Nos contaron su historia cuando fuimos a visitarles y para explicarlo en pocas palabras Ella fue guiado por el Espíritu a venir aquí con Él para compartir el Evangelio. Ella nos contó que sentía como que todos nosotros nos conocimos en la vida preterrenal y que nuestro padre tiene un plan para este Hermano. Ella vino aquí sin papeles con él para dar un recurrido de chihuahua porque Él sentía la impresión a invitarle. Vinieron el sábado y ya están en Camino para ir a Texas otra vez. Pero enseñamos el Hermano y pusimos fecha para el 21 de Marzo. Sentimos algo especial estando allí con ellos. Fue una lección como nunca ha tenido en un buen de tiempo. Más porque tenía que enseñar en Ingles y Español. Pero este es una versión corta de nuestra experiencia fue algo magnifico.
Tenemos planes para enseñar el Hermano el miércoles en la capilla y vamos a hacer todo lo posible para ayudarle. Ya aceptó todo lo que le enseñábamos.
Muchísimas gracias, Presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
This week was fine. We had some great experiences. One in particular is a long story, but I’ll do my best to explain the miracle we experienced.
We were in the chapel after the services of Villa de Real talking to some of the Elders of Portales, and waiting for Ward Council. While we were waiting, two people entered the chapel to talk to us. One began to speak to us in English, and her friend also spoke a little English. She is from Texas and is a member who is activating her friend, who is in the Portales area. She explained her story when we visited with them and, to explain it in a nutshell, she was guided by the Spirit to come here with him to share the Gospel. She told us she felt like we all met in the pre-mortal life, and that our Father has a plan for this brother. She came here without papers to show him Chihuahua because he felt impressed to invite her. They came on Saturday and are already on their way to Texas again; but we taught the brother and set a date for March 21st. We felt something special being there with them. It was a lesson like I haven't ever had in a long time; more because I had to teach in English and Spanish; but this is the short version of our experience. It was something magnificent.
We have plans to teach the brother on Wednesday in the chapel, and we will do all we can to help him. He has already accepted everything we have taught him.
Thank you for everything, President.
- Elder Hansgen
Emanuel's Baptismal Date
Monday, February 16, 2015
Original:
Presidente,
Bautizamos el Hermano Emmanuel y él está muy animado y todo. Va a ser un miembro muy fuerte si sigue así en la iglesia. Él tiene muchos dones espirituales. Ha reconocido muchos de las bendiciones en su vida en el último mes. Estoy muy agradecido a conocerle y nos ha traído mucha felicidad ayudar a este Hermano.
Todo va bien para nosotros en Nuestra Área. Tenemos muchas personas para ayudar progresar y también traer a la capilla. Estamos trabajando con una familia en que no todos son miembros y también con un joven que está muy interesado a ir a una misión como nosotros. Le decimos que no puede servir hasta que se bautice. Pero él tiene muchos deseos de aprender más.
Muchísimas gracias Presidente para todo su revelación para todos nosotros.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
We baptized Brother Emanuel and he is very excited and all. He will be a very strong member in the Church if he keeps continuing like this. He has many spiritual gifts. He has acknowledged many blessings in his life this last month. I am very grateful to know him, and it has brought us much happiness to help this brother.
Everything is going good for us in our area. We have many people to help progress and also bring to church. We are working with a family in which not all are members, and also with a young man who is very interested to go on a mission like us. We told him that he cannot serve until he is baptized, but he is eager to learn more.
Thank you very much, President, for all the revelation you receive for us.
- Elder Hansgen
Another Mission Video (In English): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gSRO3HVrBHU&feature=youtu.be
Monday, February 16, 2015
Original:
Presidente,
Bautizamos el Hermano Emmanuel y él está muy animado y todo. Va a ser un miembro muy fuerte si sigue así en la iglesia. Él tiene muchos dones espirituales. Ha reconocido muchos de las bendiciones en su vida en el último mes. Estoy muy agradecido a conocerle y nos ha traído mucha felicidad ayudar a este Hermano.
Todo va bien para nosotros en Nuestra Área. Tenemos muchas personas para ayudar progresar y también traer a la capilla. Estamos trabajando con una familia en que no todos son miembros y también con un joven que está muy interesado a ir a una misión como nosotros. Le decimos que no puede servir hasta que se bautice. Pero él tiene muchos deseos de aprender más.
Muchísimas gracias Presidente para todo su revelación para todos nosotros.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
We baptized Brother Emanuel and he is very excited and all. He will be a very strong member in the Church if he keeps continuing like this. He has many spiritual gifts. He has acknowledged many blessings in his life this last month. I am very grateful to know him, and it has brought us much happiness to help this brother.
Everything is going good for us in our area. We have many people to help progress and also bring to church. We are working with a family in which not all are members, and also with a young man who is very interested to go on a mission like us. We told him that he cannot serve until he is baptized, but he is eager to learn more.
Thank you very much, President, for all the revelation you receive for us.
- Elder Hansgen
Another Mission Video (In English): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gSRO3HVrBHU&feature=youtu.be
We Had Another Campout!
Monday, February 9, 2015
Dear Family,
Here is a picture of our campout (we just cooked outside) with Emanuel. He is getting baptized this Saturday. We had "Discada." Discada is basically just whatever meat you can find cooked in a disc.
Here is a picture of Alejandra Rivas. She just got baptized this last Saturday, and was also confirmed Sunday. We are going to visit her today and give her the photos we took. Alejandra is 16 or 17… I don’t really remember right now. In the picture are her siblings, which are her sister and brother-in-law.
The Silva Family are converts from about a year ago. Elder Fangupo baptized them. We are currently activating them again. They also have a 12-year-old son.
Emanuel is our investigator that has a hunger to learn about the Gospel. He has changed at a rate so fast it’s stunning. He has left drugs and alcohol and is super involved in the Church; he even goes to Institute.
I am just on Family Search trying to figure out how it works. It’s pretty cool. I’m actually trying to look up a little of my family history to familiarize myself with it so that I can help others with it. If I don’t know anything about it, how can I testify of it?
Everything is going fine. I am just working the way I know how and things are working out. I sometimes feel like I have a ton of things I would like to study or do, but there just isn’t any time in my day. It’s a little frustrating sometimes. I have this desire to just open up my head and pour all this information into it, but the time just kills me. I almost feel like this problem won’t be solved until I get back home; or, it just won’t ever get solved, and I will always have this desire to learn. I really do believe that this is one of the talents God has given me. Not to brag or anything, but I just love learning new things. I sometimes feel like I don’t ever finish one thing because, before you know it, I am moving on to another. Ha-ha! Anyway, I have a ton of plans for the things I would like to learn or do, but there is just no time for it in the schedule of a missionary....ha-ha!
Talk to you next week!
Love,
-Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Está semana estaba excelente. Tuvimos un Bautismo de la hermana Alejandra Rivas. Todo fue bien y ya está viendo más sobre la programa de EFY. Ella quiere ir y todo. Estamos viendo buenas cosas también está semana. El Hermano Emanuel también va a bautizarse este sábado. Estamos planeando otro bautismo también pero tenemos que ver cómo está progresando la hermana.
Me encanta la misión y todo es lo mejor. Estamos teniendo muchas buenas experiencias y también creciendo espiritualmente. Muchísimas gracias por lo que compartió con nosotros la otra semana. Estoy agradecido por lo que compartió de los poderes del Cielo. Ahora veo las cosas diferentes y también mi compañero está viendo el progreso también.
Que tenga una buena semana Presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
This week was excellent. We had the baptism of sister Alejandra Rivas. Everything went well and now she is learning more about the EFY program. She wants to go and everything. We are seeing good things this week as well. Brother Emanuel will also be baptized this Saturday. We are planning another baptism, but we need to see how the sister is progressing.
I love the mission, and everything is the best. We are having many great experiences and also growing spiritually. Thank you so much for what you shared with us the other week. I am grateful for what you shared about the powers of heaven. Now I see things differently, and my companion is seeing progress too.
I hope you have a good week, President.
-Elder Hansgen
Monday, February 9, 2015
Dear Family,
Here is a picture of our campout (we just cooked outside) with Emanuel. He is getting baptized this Saturday. We had "Discada." Discada is basically just whatever meat you can find cooked in a disc.
Here is a picture of Alejandra Rivas. She just got baptized this last Saturday, and was also confirmed Sunday. We are going to visit her today and give her the photos we took. Alejandra is 16 or 17… I don’t really remember right now. In the picture are her siblings, which are her sister and brother-in-law.
The Silva Family are converts from about a year ago. Elder Fangupo baptized them. We are currently activating them again. They also have a 12-year-old son.
Emanuel is our investigator that has a hunger to learn about the Gospel. He has changed at a rate so fast it’s stunning. He has left drugs and alcohol and is super involved in the Church; he even goes to Institute.
I am just on Family Search trying to figure out how it works. It’s pretty cool. I’m actually trying to look up a little of my family history to familiarize myself with it so that I can help others with it. If I don’t know anything about it, how can I testify of it?
Everything is going fine. I am just working the way I know how and things are working out. I sometimes feel like I have a ton of things I would like to study or do, but there just isn’t any time in my day. It’s a little frustrating sometimes. I have this desire to just open up my head and pour all this information into it, but the time just kills me. I almost feel like this problem won’t be solved until I get back home; or, it just won’t ever get solved, and I will always have this desire to learn. I really do believe that this is one of the talents God has given me. Not to brag or anything, but I just love learning new things. I sometimes feel like I don’t ever finish one thing because, before you know it, I am moving on to another. Ha-ha! Anyway, I have a ton of plans for the things I would like to learn or do, but there is just no time for it in the schedule of a missionary....ha-ha!
Talk to you next week!
Love,
-Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Está semana estaba excelente. Tuvimos un Bautismo de la hermana Alejandra Rivas. Todo fue bien y ya está viendo más sobre la programa de EFY. Ella quiere ir y todo. Estamos viendo buenas cosas también está semana. El Hermano Emanuel también va a bautizarse este sábado. Estamos planeando otro bautismo también pero tenemos que ver cómo está progresando la hermana.
Me encanta la misión y todo es lo mejor. Estamos teniendo muchas buenas experiencias y también creciendo espiritualmente. Muchísimas gracias por lo que compartió con nosotros la otra semana. Estoy agradecido por lo que compartió de los poderes del Cielo. Ahora veo las cosas diferentes y también mi compañero está viendo el progreso también.
Que tenga una buena semana Presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
This week was excellent. We had the baptism of sister Alejandra Rivas. Everything went well and now she is learning more about the EFY program. She wants to go and everything. We are seeing good things this week as well. Brother Emanuel will also be baptized this Saturday. We are planning another baptism, but we need to see how the sister is progressing.
I love the mission, and everything is the best. We are having many great experiences and also growing spiritually. Thank you so much for what you shared with us the other week. I am grateful for what you shared about the powers of heaven. Now I see things differently, and my companion is seeing progress too.
I hope you have a good week, President.
-Elder Hansgen
Is This Really Even An Email???
Monday, February 2, 2015
Dear Mom,
I'm doing good. Everything is fine. I have just been downloading videos and music. One that I really like is Garden Walls by Mindy Gledhill. I have just been downloading a lot of the music from the Youth page.
Love,
-Elder Hansgen
(The servers, or something, were not working. We didn't get the chance to email back and forth like we normally do because by the time Ian would receive our emails, or we would receive his, it wasn't until sometime Monday night. This happens from time to time; thus, the extremely "short" email this week. We are just really happy he is doing so well).
Monday, February 2, 2015
Dear Mom,
I'm doing good. Everything is fine. I have just been downloading videos and music. One that I really like is Garden Walls by Mindy Gledhill. I have just been downloading a lot of the music from the Youth page.
Love,
-Elder Hansgen
(The servers, or something, were not working. We didn't get the chance to email back and forth like we normally do because by the time Ian would receive our emails, or we would receive his, it wasn't until sometime Monday night. This happens from time to time; thus, the extremely "short" email this week. We are just really happy he is doing so well).
Very Little To Report...
Monday, January 26, 2015
I only received one very short email from Elder Ian today, and it was answers to some of the questions I asked him. Enjoy -- it's short and sweet.
Answers to Questions:
How is Alejandra Rivas? She just got back from La Sierra yesterday. We are working toward a baptism this Saturday with her.
You also have an investigator you said is progressing very fast and has already been to Church three times. Will you be moving this baptism up from February 14th? Nope. He wants to get baptized that day, so we are planning it for that day.
I wanted to also tell you I am very excited for what it is you said you are preparing for us as far as the "eternal families" presentation that you are working on with photos. Are you still making it??? (I hope so!) Yes, I am still making it, but I might save it for when I get back home. It will be so much better if you all wait. Trust me. I’ll give you a hint,though. It has to do with this Card. I’ll leave it up to you all to wait because it’s going to take me a while to put the Capacitation of President into my own words, and to find all of the scripture references.
Original:
Presidente,
No mucho ha pasado esta semana. Estamos ayudando las personas prepararse para Febrero. No sé que será pero nadie esta confiando en Dios para poder venir a la iglesia. Por el Horario o por su trabajo, estamos batallando con eso ahorita. Necesitamos mejorar nuestra enseñanza respeto a esto.
Estamos trabajando con los miembros mucho. El consejo de barrio ha planeado como trabajar con cada organización un día a la semana. Nosotros solo tenemos que ir a la iglesia en el Horario y también fijar citas por el tiempo del horario para ir y trabajar con los miembros.
Estoy animado porque tenemos mucho trabajo y solo necesitamos traer las personas a la iglesia. Menos eso todo va bien en nuestra área. Básicamente lo mismo que reportar en cuanto al districto. Gracias por todo Presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
Not much has happened this week. We are helping the people prepare themselves for February. I don't know what will happen, but no one is trusting God to come to church by the schedule, or for their work. We are struggling with that right now. We need to improve our teaching in respect to this as well.
We are working with the members a lot. The Ward Council has planned how to work with each organization one day a week. We only have to go to the church on the schedule, and set appointments for that time on the schedule, to go and work with members.
I am excited because we have a lot of work to do and we only need to bring people to the church. Excluding that, everything is going good in our area. Basically, I have the same to report about the District as well. Thank you for everything, President.
-Elder Hansgen
Monday, January 26, 2015
I only received one very short email from Elder Ian today, and it was answers to some of the questions I asked him. Enjoy -- it's short and sweet.
Answers to Questions:
How is Alejandra Rivas? She just got back from La Sierra yesterday. We are working toward a baptism this Saturday with her.
You also have an investigator you said is progressing very fast and has already been to Church three times. Will you be moving this baptism up from February 14th? Nope. He wants to get baptized that day, so we are planning it for that day.
I wanted to also tell you I am very excited for what it is you said you are preparing for us as far as the "eternal families" presentation that you are working on with photos. Are you still making it??? (I hope so!) Yes, I am still making it, but I might save it for when I get back home. It will be so much better if you all wait. Trust me. I’ll give you a hint,though. It has to do with this Card. I’ll leave it up to you all to wait because it’s going to take me a while to put the Capacitation of President into my own words, and to find all of the scripture references.
Original:
Presidente,
No mucho ha pasado esta semana. Estamos ayudando las personas prepararse para Febrero. No sé que será pero nadie esta confiando en Dios para poder venir a la iglesia. Por el Horario o por su trabajo, estamos batallando con eso ahorita. Necesitamos mejorar nuestra enseñanza respeto a esto.
Estamos trabajando con los miembros mucho. El consejo de barrio ha planeado como trabajar con cada organización un día a la semana. Nosotros solo tenemos que ir a la iglesia en el Horario y también fijar citas por el tiempo del horario para ir y trabajar con los miembros.
Estoy animado porque tenemos mucho trabajo y solo necesitamos traer las personas a la iglesia. Menos eso todo va bien en nuestra área. Básicamente lo mismo que reportar en cuanto al districto. Gracias por todo Presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
Not much has happened this week. We are helping the people prepare themselves for February. I don't know what will happen, but no one is trusting God to come to church by the schedule, or for their work. We are struggling with that right now. We need to improve our teaching in respect to this as well.
We are working with the members a lot. The Ward Council has planned how to work with each organization one day a week. We only have to go to the church on the schedule, and set appointments for that time on the schedule, to go and work with members.
I am excited because we have a lot of work to do and we only need to bring people to the church. Excluding that, everything is going good in our area. Basically, I have the same to report about the District as well. Thank you for everything, President.
-Elder Hansgen
We Watched Meet The Mormons!
Monday, January 18, 2015
Dear Family,
I really don’t have much to tell you this week. It was just another week for me, really. The best part of the week was when we had a meeting with our President and he started off by telling us “you have to keep this a secret or the members will start to ask me to lend them this, but we are going to watch the movie Meet The Mormons.” I really liked it. It was very well done. My favorite was the Boxer Mom and the Missionary Mom. I also really liked the Football Trainer.
That was the coolest part of my week. The other part of my week that has been pretty cool is the revelation I am having in my personal study. I have been “at it” in the scriptures, and it all is just flowing along smoothly. I had the privilege to listen to the Capacitation of President five times. I think it was because I needed to learn something. It’s not every day you get to hear about all the doctrine an ex-Institute professor has to share with everyone. It was all pure doctrine and it was amazing. That’s what I talked about when I said I was preparing something to share with you all.
Nothing else, really. I have just been here doing what I’m supposed to be doing. Everything else is just an extension of the work.
I’m really liking the idea of going into computers also; so, yeah, still Electrical Engineering. My President gave me some advice, too. He told me that you should always be thinking of what will help you have an eternal family. That is the first priority. I want to explain to you what it is he has been sharing with the entire mission, but I am still in the process of making it. It will take a couple of weeks and I am going to have to do it through photos, or something.
My favorite foods? Well, I don’t know right now but I can tell you that I’m not excited to come back home for the food there. Ha-ha! Tell Ryjel that I want to go snowboarding with him and he can’t go anymore until I get back. Tell Aneeqa that she should keep reading a lot. Have her start with Jesus The Christ, and have her read Doctrine Of Salvation. Ha-ha.
Do you have any other questions before I have to get off? I don’t have photos this week. We don’t have anything cool to take photos of. It’s all ghetto, remember? Ha-ha!
Original:
Presidente,
Está semana fue bien. La única cosa es que nuestro bautismo fue a la sierra y nos ha dicho que regresará en una semana. Estábamos ansiosos de tener un bautismo está semana.
Todo está bien y estamos trabajando duro. Tenemos un Investigador que está progresando muy rápido. Ya tiene fecha por el 14 de Feb pero ha asistido 3 veces. Veamos si cambiamos su fecha para más temprano o no.
Tenemos muchas metas para alcanzar en Febrero. Tenemos muchos posibles y también algunos seguros para ayudar participar del bautismo. Estoy animado para estar aquí y también para ayudar a las personas de esta área.
Gracias para todo Presidente y por la oportunidad de ver “Meet the Mormons.” Que tenga un buen día.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
This week was good. The only thing is our baptism (Alejandra Rivas) went to La Sierra and told us that they would return in one week. We were excited to have a baptism this week.
Everything is good and we are working hard. We have an investigator that is progressing very fast. They have a date for February 14th, but have attended church three times already. We are going to see if we can change that for an earlier date.
We have a lot of goals to achieve in February. We have a few possible people and some people that we are going to help be baptized. I am excited to be here in the area, and also to help the people of this area.
Thank you for everything, President, and for the opportunity to see "Meet The Mormons." Have a good day.
- Elder Hansgen
Monday, January 18, 2015
Dear Family,
I really don’t have much to tell you this week. It was just another week for me, really. The best part of the week was when we had a meeting with our President and he started off by telling us “you have to keep this a secret or the members will start to ask me to lend them this, but we are going to watch the movie Meet The Mormons.” I really liked it. It was very well done. My favorite was the Boxer Mom and the Missionary Mom. I also really liked the Football Trainer.
That was the coolest part of my week. The other part of my week that has been pretty cool is the revelation I am having in my personal study. I have been “at it” in the scriptures, and it all is just flowing along smoothly. I had the privilege to listen to the Capacitation of President five times. I think it was because I needed to learn something. It’s not every day you get to hear about all the doctrine an ex-Institute professor has to share with everyone. It was all pure doctrine and it was amazing. That’s what I talked about when I said I was preparing something to share with you all.
Nothing else, really. I have just been here doing what I’m supposed to be doing. Everything else is just an extension of the work.
I’m really liking the idea of going into computers also; so, yeah, still Electrical Engineering. My President gave me some advice, too. He told me that you should always be thinking of what will help you have an eternal family. That is the first priority. I want to explain to you what it is he has been sharing with the entire mission, but I am still in the process of making it. It will take a couple of weeks and I am going to have to do it through photos, or something.
My favorite foods? Well, I don’t know right now but I can tell you that I’m not excited to come back home for the food there. Ha-ha! Tell Ryjel that I want to go snowboarding with him and he can’t go anymore until I get back. Tell Aneeqa that she should keep reading a lot. Have her start with Jesus The Christ, and have her read Doctrine Of Salvation. Ha-ha.
Do you have any other questions before I have to get off? I don’t have photos this week. We don’t have anything cool to take photos of. It’s all ghetto, remember? Ha-ha!
Original:
Presidente,
Está semana fue bien. La única cosa es que nuestro bautismo fue a la sierra y nos ha dicho que regresará en una semana. Estábamos ansiosos de tener un bautismo está semana.
Todo está bien y estamos trabajando duro. Tenemos un Investigador que está progresando muy rápido. Ya tiene fecha por el 14 de Feb pero ha asistido 3 veces. Veamos si cambiamos su fecha para más temprano o no.
Tenemos muchas metas para alcanzar en Febrero. Tenemos muchos posibles y también algunos seguros para ayudar participar del bautismo. Estoy animado para estar aquí y también para ayudar a las personas de esta área.
Gracias para todo Presidente y por la oportunidad de ver “Meet the Mormons.” Que tenga un buen día.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
This week was good. The only thing is our baptism (Alejandra Rivas) went to La Sierra and told us that they would return in one week. We were excited to have a baptism this week.
Everything is good and we are working hard. We have an investigator that is progressing very fast. They have a date for February 14th, but have attended church three times already. We are going to see if we can change that for an earlier date.
We have a lot of goals to achieve in February. We have a few possible people and some people that we are going to help be baptized. I am excited to be here in the area, and also to help the people of this area.
Thank you for everything, President, and for the opportunity to see "Meet The Mormons." Have a good day.
- Elder Hansgen
Six Months Left???
Monday, January 12, 2014
Dear Family,
Hey, I don't have any photos this week. I do have one of the Hermana that I visited in Delicias last month.
Six months left in the mission is practically nothing. I was talking with Elder Reynolds the other day and he told me we have about four cycles left. Each cycle is six weeks and they fly by really fast. Every six weeks we have changes, so there is a possibility that this could be my last area, or I could have about one more...maybe two.
I really have a lot of "Ganas" to go snowboarding with Ryjel, so tell him to prepare. "Ganas" is like saying "desirous" or something like that.
I haven’t really run into trouble here yet in the area. There are just a lot of thug-looking people, but nobody really wants to talk with us, or bother us. Ha-ha!
This past week we have been helping all of the possible people, and all of the secure people, for baptisms in the Zone. We are going to be having a baptism this week and I will give more details next week because I am already out of time. Sorry. ANIMO!!!!
-Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Está semana fue excelente. Nosotros aprendimos mucho de esta semana. Yo tenía la oportunidad de Escuchar su capacitación sobre “Quien es Usted” 4 veces. Obviamente había algo que necesito comprender o aprender. Estoy trabajando bien con mi compañero y estamos encontrando personas que están preparando para un Bautismal. Algunos de las personas ya han asistido también.
Tuvimos 3 en la iglesia y también seguimos lo que el Elder Nava hace para meter las personas de la calle a las reuniones. Unas 3 mujeres estaban actualmente impresionadas con la Iglesia. Ellas quieren regresar y Los Elderes ya van a pasar a visitar ellos esta semana.
Todo está bien aquí y estamos felices para estar trabajando en esta misión. Es Lo mejor misión en el Mundo y tengo un testimonio que fui enviado aquí por revelación divina.
Gracias para todo Presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
This week was excellent. We learned a lot from this week. I had the opportunity to listen to your training on "Who You Are" four times. Obivously, there was something that I needed to understand or learn. I am working good with my companion and we are finding people that have been prepared for baptism. A few of the people have attended Church as well.
We had three people in Church, and we also followed what Elder Nava has done to get people he meets in the street to Church meetings. Three women were actually impressed with the Church. They want to return and the Elders are going to go by and visit them this week.
Everything is good here and we are happy to be working in this mission. It is the best mission in the world and I have a testimony that I was sent here by divine revelation.
Thank you for everything President.
- Elder Hansgen
Monday, January 12, 2014
Dear Family,
Hey, I don't have any photos this week. I do have one of the Hermana that I visited in Delicias last month.
Six months left in the mission is practically nothing. I was talking with Elder Reynolds the other day and he told me we have about four cycles left. Each cycle is six weeks and they fly by really fast. Every six weeks we have changes, so there is a possibility that this could be my last area, or I could have about one more...maybe two.
I really have a lot of "Ganas" to go snowboarding with Ryjel, so tell him to prepare. "Ganas" is like saying "desirous" or something like that.
I haven’t really run into trouble here yet in the area. There are just a lot of thug-looking people, but nobody really wants to talk with us, or bother us. Ha-ha!
This past week we have been helping all of the possible people, and all of the secure people, for baptisms in the Zone. We are going to be having a baptism this week and I will give more details next week because I am already out of time. Sorry. ANIMO!!!!
-Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Está semana fue excelente. Nosotros aprendimos mucho de esta semana. Yo tenía la oportunidad de Escuchar su capacitación sobre “Quien es Usted” 4 veces. Obviamente había algo que necesito comprender o aprender. Estoy trabajando bien con mi compañero y estamos encontrando personas que están preparando para un Bautismal. Algunos de las personas ya han asistido también.
Tuvimos 3 en la iglesia y también seguimos lo que el Elder Nava hace para meter las personas de la calle a las reuniones. Unas 3 mujeres estaban actualmente impresionadas con la Iglesia. Ellas quieren regresar y Los Elderes ya van a pasar a visitar ellos esta semana.
Todo está bien aquí y estamos felices para estar trabajando en esta misión. Es Lo mejor misión en el Mundo y tengo un testimonio que fui enviado aquí por revelación divina.
Gracias para todo Presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
This week was excellent. We learned a lot from this week. I had the opportunity to listen to your training on "Who You Are" four times. Obivously, there was something that I needed to understand or learn. I am working good with my companion and we are finding people that have been prepared for baptism. A few of the people have attended Church as well.
We had three people in Church, and we also followed what Elder Nava has done to get people he meets in the street to Church meetings. Three women were actually impressed with the Church. They want to return and the Elders are going to go by and visit them this week.
Everything is good here and we are happy to be working in this mission. It is the best mission in the world and I have a testimony that I was sent here by divine revelation.
Thank you for everything President.
- Elder Hansgen
I'm Serving In A New Area!
Monday, January 5, 2015
Dear Family,
Sorry for what happened last week. They (Office Elders) needed me to go with them and I thought it would only take about 30-40 minutes but it lasted a couple of hours and I couldn’t write, but everything is fine.
Very quick....I do have a lot to tell you all about the last week. I am in a new area now. I am no longer a part of Arquitos or in the Offices. I am in Villas del Real on the Northern tip of Chihuahua. My companion has four months in the Mission and is awesome. His name is Elder Hernandez. Everything has been going well and I am still getting used to a new house and a new area. I don’t have too many photos, but Ill send the ones I have.
I got to my new area on Friday. I have just been getting to know everyone for the last couple of days.
My Christmas was alright. For New Years I was in the offices and we didn’t really do anything. The Christmas party was the best part of Christmas. Everyone wants to invite you to dinner, also, so that’s good.
I just live with my companion (there are no other Elders). My new area is super ghetto. It’s where all of the gangsters live in Chihuahua. There are probably only two or three colonies that have paved streets. It’s alright though. We don’t have problems.
I have been cleaning my USB and camera. Every time I clean it, the computer infects it again, so I just cleaned them and took them out.
Thanks Mom. I love you too. Bye!
-Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Estoy en un área por fin. Villas del Real con el Elder Hernandez. Todo está bien y estoy acostumbrando a todo otra vez. Después de durar 3 semanas en las Oficinas siento bien trabajando de nuevo. No sé si hay mucho que reportar. Estoy conociendo mi districto y también a todos sus investigadores poco a poco.
Elder Hernandez está ayudándome mucho y es un Elder Muy bueno. Sabe hacer las cosas y también tiene la carga del área mientras conozco las personas. Siento muy bien con todo el Trabajo que tiene mi districto y también por todos los esfuerzos que están haciendo.
Muchísimas gracias para todo presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
I am finally in an area; Villas de Real with Elder Hernandez. Everything is good and I am getting used to working again. After spending three weeks in the offices I feel good to be working again. I don't know if there is much to report. I am getting to know my District and all the investigators little by little.
Elder Hernandez is helping me a lot and is a good Elder. He knows how to do things, and also has the load of the area while getting to the people. I feel really good with all the work that my District has done, and also for all the work they are doing.
Thank you for everything President.
- Elder Hansgen
Monday, January 5, 2015
Dear Family,
Sorry for what happened last week. They (Office Elders) needed me to go with them and I thought it would only take about 30-40 minutes but it lasted a couple of hours and I couldn’t write, but everything is fine.
Very quick....I do have a lot to tell you all about the last week. I am in a new area now. I am no longer a part of Arquitos or in the Offices. I am in Villas del Real on the Northern tip of Chihuahua. My companion has four months in the Mission and is awesome. His name is Elder Hernandez. Everything has been going well and I am still getting used to a new house and a new area. I don’t have too many photos, but Ill send the ones I have.
I got to my new area on Friday. I have just been getting to know everyone for the last couple of days.
My Christmas was alright. For New Years I was in the offices and we didn’t really do anything. The Christmas party was the best part of Christmas. Everyone wants to invite you to dinner, also, so that’s good.
I just live with my companion (there are no other Elders). My new area is super ghetto. It’s where all of the gangsters live in Chihuahua. There are probably only two or three colonies that have paved streets. It’s alright though. We don’t have problems.
I have been cleaning my USB and camera. Every time I clean it, the computer infects it again, so I just cleaned them and took them out.
Thanks Mom. I love you too. Bye!
-Elder Hansgen
Original:
Presidente,
Estoy en un área por fin. Villas del Real con el Elder Hernandez. Todo está bien y estoy acostumbrando a todo otra vez. Después de durar 3 semanas en las Oficinas siento bien trabajando de nuevo. No sé si hay mucho que reportar. Estoy conociendo mi districto y también a todos sus investigadores poco a poco.
Elder Hernandez está ayudándome mucho y es un Elder Muy bueno. Sabe hacer las cosas y también tiene la carga del área mientras conozco las personas. Siento muy bien con todo el Trabajo que tiene mi districto y también por todos los esfuerzos que están haciendo.
Muchísimas gracias para todo presidente.
-Elder Hansgen
Translation:
President,
I am finally in an area; Villas de Real with Elder Hernandez. Everything is good and I am getting used to working again. After spending three weeks in the offices I feel good to be working again. I don't know if there is much to report. I am getting to know my District and all the investigators little by little.
Elder Hernandez is helping me a lot and is a good Elder. He knows how to do things, and also has the load of the area while getting to the people. I feel really good with all the work that my District has done, and also for all the work they are doing.
Thank you for everything President.
- Elder Hansgen