On the Lord's Errand... We all are!

Hey all!

I am having a jolly good time in Bucharest. I enjoy staying busy and doing meaningful activities, and this week was nothing short of that. This opportunity to serve in the office has taught me that it doesn't matter what your circumstances are- there is always time to serve and help others come closer to Christ. 

IUBESC ROMANIA

I try to keep this motto in mind throughout the day- maybe I'm at the car service center, in the car stuck in traffic, walking in the center of the biggest city in Eastern Europe, talking with a worker at the Pharmacy, sitting on a bench in sectorul 3 doing a companionship study- the Lord places people in our paths to bless. This week I wanted to share some of those experiences, as well as other great happenings that took place in beautiful Romania.

A little suburb in Bucharest

SPRING!

Elder Krylbourn (a stand-out elder from Sweden) and I went on an exchange on Wednesday. Elder Trottier and I worked really hard getting everything done that we could on Tuesday, in order to have a full day of proselyting for exchanges. I was grateful for the time we had to do the normal routine as a missionary, though it seems like all of that bad things happened on exchange day in terms of legal work- we survived though! 

Elder Krylbourn and I

We met a great family from the town of Fagaras who was just one of those that you couldn't help but see in white at the temple- so humble and eager to follow Christ. Unfortunately there are no missionaries in that area of Romania, but we testified of the Book of Mormon and the power that it has to bless our families with peace and unity. The boy begged the mother to buy it, but we ensured her that it was free. I know that this won't be the last time this family meets the missionaries. Every effort that we put in to sharing the gospel matters, I know this because God loves each one of his children.

Elder Trottier Ft. Moon

European parks are so relaxing

On that note, we were actually doing a companionship study on a bench just yesterday before we were going to have a dinner appointment with someone. It practically felt like fast Sunday because it was 5:30 pm and we hadn't eaten since breakfast! Just then, a woman walked by us, and she immediately recognized us- it was an investigator of one of the sister's from a year ago! She had lost contact with the missionaries since then, and was super excited to see us. She explained that her life has been pretty difficult since being diagnosed with a really bad disease that is life-altering. My heart felt for her, and quickly shared 2 Nephi 9:21-22. 

21 And he cometh into the world that he may save all men if they will hearken unto his voice; for behold, he suffereth the pains of all men, yea, the pains of every living creature, both men, women, and children, who belong to the family of Adam.22 And he suffereth this that the resurrection might pass upon all men, that all might stand before him at the great and judgment day.

This is one of the most pure and personally touching scriptures about the Savior for me. After that, she expressed a desire to meet with the missionaries again. Regardless of the outcome, I know that the Lord put her in my path to help her in this trying time!

Sora Dragu and I 

We had the opportunity to go visit a very old, sick, yet full-of-life sister yesterday as well. Though she doesn't have much, her attitude and perspective of life taught me the very essence of the gospel, that is to have joy as we live a Christlike life! Her apartment (room) is horrible, surrounded by not very good people who play loud and obnoxious music, and her health doesn't permit her to leave the apartment- yet she finds joy in the fact that she is a child of God. That is cool. We sang "I Am a Child of God" before we left, and as I looked around the room, I just couldn't help but feel the very joy that Sora Dragu was feeling. She will always be an example to me of a true disciple of Jesus Christ.

These experiences, along with many others, have helped me learn certain lessons that I needed to learn. There is nothing better than being in the service of the Lord!

Ianis and I

We also traveled to a little village where one of our member's mother lives and had a nice little barbecue. Super serene, and stunning countryside. Zone conference also happened, and was spiritually uplifting. I love all of the unique opportunities I have to better myself, as well as the lives of others while being a missionary. It's the best!

I have always wanted a picture in the rapeseed fields!

Have a great week!

Love,

Elder Ditto 

Every week is a miracle

Hey fam bam!

This week marks the beginning of the "missionary-tan" era. That's right, it's getting hot over here and the shirt-collar tan line is real! No matter, all the missionaries are hyped to be out in the sun, and the people of Bucharest are too! I am thankful to be in a country where there are four seasons. I may not be surrounded by mountains, but the urban-spring time is pretty good too...

A nice evening of contacting in Piata Unirii

Everyone is enjoying the beautiful weather

I never get tired of this park!

Elder Trottier and I did a lot of interesting problem solving, preparations, and random tasks and assignments for the good of the mission this week. Time is a ticking- before we know it this office will be moved over to Hungary! Something that I admire about my companion is his ability to communicate kindly and effectively in all different situations. Working in the office has tested my communication skills- the legal world can be scary at times!

Sneak peak of out P-day photoshoot...

In the office we experience a lot of little and big miracles as we do our work. Some days it seems like everything goes wrong, and then somehow, by the grace of God, the problems start to resolve themselves and we are able to accomplish the things that need to be done. Other times, the miracles can come in the form of comfort from a friend, or a nice "Dublu Booster" from KFC in the middle of an intense day. Whatever the day, miracles do happen, and it is because God knows and loves us.

Florica... a nice flower lady that I met today. She told me I need to print this out and give it to her!

This week I asked a lot of people on the streets if they believe that miracles still happen in our days. To my surprise, about eight out of ten say "yes" in some form. I think everyone does want to believe in miracles, to be honest. The tough part is being humble enough to see them. This whole week I studied about miracles, and learned some cool things that I was able to share with others. 

Donald L. Hallstrom defined a miracle as, "a beneficial event brought about through divine power that mortals do not understand." In other words, miracles depend on your perspective of life, and your faith in God. Sometimes we have to look, or maybe we need to be a little more grateful, other times we are gifted with miracles.

2 Nephi 26:13
     And that he manifesteth himself unto all those who believe in him, by the power of the Holy Ghost; yea, unto every nation, kindred, tongue, and people, working mighty miracles, signs, and wonders, among the children of men according to their faith.  

I hope that we all look for the miracles in our own lives, and try to be the means of working miracles in the lives of others. 

One morning I got a text from an investigator that expressed his gratitude towards us for helping him develop more faith in Jesus Christ. Before he met us, he had never told anyone that he actually believed in Jesus Christ or God! This was a miracle! A miracle because I was feeling a little discouraged that we weren't having a lot of "seen" success, as well seeing the Book of Mormon help a man become closer to God- THAT is the real miracle. 

Through this small little experience, God taught me a little more about how miracles work, and how God works through us children to help others find greater happiness, through faith in His son, Jesus Christ. Pretty cool!!!!

Luna... getting our photoshoot juices flowing

Love all of you! Have a spectacular week!

Elder Ditto

Coming Closer to Jesus... Helping Others do the Same

Hey everyone!

This week was a whirlwind- it was transfer week so we were doing a lot of buying tickets and ensuring that everyone safely arrived to their necessary destinations. Think about this- it may be easy to organize 70 peoples travel, but imagine doing this but everyone must be with another person at all times! This is the tricky part of travel as missionaries, and we get to work out all of those kinks. Pretty fun, and sometimes joggles your brain! I have been enjoying learning more about the legal and logistical part of the world, something that I haven't ever really seen. 

Love this crazy guy!

On another note, I sent home Elder Bontempo as he arrived to the close of his mission. I spent 4.5 months with that guy, it was fun to reminisce all of the good times that we had, and the good that we did. I have made some amazing friends here in Romania. 

Besides the crazy beginning of the week, we actually had more time than usual to get out on the streets and proselyte, as well as have a couple of great lessons. One was with a man who is a professional rower, and is like 6 foot 7 inches! As we got to know him, I was pretty intrigued by his moral standards that he had, and the vision that he had in his life. We testified of the role that the Book of Mormon can have in our lives, and invited him to discover that our for himself. 

I was reflecting just today about the role that the Book of Mormon has had in my life. I know that the Book of Mormon is true because of the impact it has had on my relationship with God, as I have tried to follow the teaching of Jesus Christ. Most recently, I was reading in Alma 7, and the spirit witnessed to me of probably the most important role of the Book of Mormon.

12 And he will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities.

13 Now the Spirit knoweth all things; nevertheless the Son of God suffereth according to the flesh that he might take upon him the sins of his people, that he might blot out their transgressions according to the power of his deliverance; and now behold, this is the testimony which is in me.

I felt a peace inside and a clarity of mind as the thought came to my mind, It's all because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ." A lot of the teachings of Jesus Christ are not rocket science, and you don't even have to be religious to live some of the divine attributes of Christ. It is the knowledge and faith in Jesus Christ and his atonement- His life, suffering in the garden, and on the cross, the Resurrection- that give these teachings value and direction to our lives. That is why the Book of Mormon is so crucial- in plainness we learn how this all works together for our good, and why we need faith in Jesus! I know that Jesus Christ for me individually, and each one of us so that he can comfort us, forgive us, and give us hope! Because of him, we will all live again.

Two days ago, we were in Cismigiu park doing spreading the good word, when a couple came by. We stopped them, and engaged in a conversation about if they believe miracles happen in our days. A little into the discussion, they realized that they had seen us in Piata Unirii earlier today, and were wondering what we were doing. I told them that it was a miracle that they found us again! As we got to know each other better, I felt the spirit begin to guide my responses and questions. I felt prompted to share about Elder Day's passing, and how God helped me in that time. Shortly after, the woman opened up and said that her father had passed away four years ago and she still hadn't received an answer as to where he was. We shared the Book of Mormon with her, and testified that life after death is REAL, thanks Jesus Christ. We parted ways, both uplifted. I know that God was with us in that moment, and that we were able to bring peace to their hearts.

So many amazing experiences here, and in the process the Lord is shaping me. What a special opportunity!!!

I love you all, and hope that each of you will take some time to ponder on your relationship with Jesus Christ.

With love,

Elder Ditto

Pastele... o singura zi care ne influenteaza pana vecii veciilor!

Hristos a inviat! Adevarat a inviat!!

Despite my western-christian heritage, this year I became like the Romanians, that I might celebrate with the Romanians! That's right, this last Sunday was the Orthodox Easter- the second biggest celebration in the year next to Christmas for this nation. 

In my traditional Romanian garb

Enchanting fountain in the middle of the city

Paste Fericit! Cu drag, Elder Ditto si Elder Trottier

Last year both of our Easters happened to fall on the same day, but not so this time around. I am always impressed to see the pride and that Romanians have regarding their traditions and heritage. The Orthodox church's holidays/dates can vary widely compared to those of the Catholics. During the course of this whole week the country as a whole prepared for the big Easter weekend, that they might all celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 

A giant painted egg... Romanians love their painted eggs!

Elder Trottier is always composed.

You ask one Romanian what they are doing for Easter and the answer is spending time with the family. My heart was happy for them because people here work incredible hours and to have two or three days off means everything to them! I think about the many friends that I have here who are doing everything that they can to support their families, that their kids or even themselves might live a little better. 

Masa de Paste

We had a beautiful Easter meal thanks to Sora Gorzo, the missionary Romanian grandma of Bucharest. She is always eager to feed us and have a good time. Sora Gorzo and I go way back to last summer, when I first met her. I am really thankful for her wisdom and selfless attitude- she not a half bad cook either! The meal consisted of the classic hard-boiled eggs, an AMAZING ciorba de vacuta (soup with calf meat), mashed potatoes and some really good veal (apparently that is the word for baby cow meat in English), followed by tiramisu for dessert. I love going to Sora Gorzo's house because it is so Romanian. Not too big, not fancy at all, but it feels like home. 

One of these weren't all the way hard-boiled

Elder Krieger... love being around him!

The Elders and Sora Gorzo

Savoring every bite

This week I was working on pondering. I just want to share a little snippet from my email to President Hettinger that I feel like captures my main thoughts for the week...

This week I was way better at pondering- something that I have been wanting to improve at for awhile now! I mainly pondered about how my relationship is with the Savior, and what I can do to improve as a disciple of Jesus Christ. The recent health issues of some of the missionaries have reminded me how fragile life is, and what really matters most. I am reminded of the words said by Pres. Monson- never let a problem to be solved become more important that a person to be loved. I think this really is portrayed best, of course, by the Savior. His whole entire life he lived in selflessness- always turning out, which in turn prepared him for the ultimate act of love, as well as impacted lives before, during and after his. For me, faith in Jesus Christ allows me to go forth with hope and peace, and takes out the feelings of doubt and fear. Because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, I am able to be forgiven of my sins, and help others on the path that leads to these same blessings that I have.

Piata Unirii 

Really love serving with this guy!

The Mihai Bracu District Number 2

The more I am out here the more I realize how reaching the Atonement of Jesus Christ is. Sure we are told that Jesus Christ can help us all, and that following him brings happiness and strength in the hard times, but once your faith is actually tested, and once you see and help others to discover for themselves this power- it becomes tangible; your gratitude for the Savior and for everyone that has helped you along the journey begins to grow and grow. 

Super mean salmon and tates for lunch at the Shurtleffs!

Just basking in the sun!

So Easter has come and gone, but the feelings that we have for our Redeemer must carry on through our actions the whole year! 

All my love,

Elder Ditto 

Springtime is the best!

Conference in a Cottage

Buna Dimineata! 

I hope all of you feel as rejuvenated as I do after an incredible weekend of listening to General Conference. This was my last conference overseas on a mission, and it was quite a special one for me. 

Elder Vashchenko is headed back to Moldova for the last part of his mission. I really enjoyed serving around him.

On Saturday, Elder Krieger and his companion had a baptism at Panduri, so we supported the new convert, Radu in this exciting day. It was a marvelous sight seeing a young man rise up from the ways of the world and commit to following Jesus Christ. 

Following the baptism, we had an Easter concert at Mihai Bravu. FYI, Panduri is the location of the meetinghouse on the westside of Bucharest, and Mihai Bravu is the location of the meetinghouse on the eastside of the city. I attend the branch in Mihai Bravu, the same branch that I was serving in last summer. I love that branch, and it has been a great blessing to build relationships there. The location of Mihai Bravu is a lot more accessible, so that is why the concert was held there. 

I was really impressed with the missionaries who put the shin-dig all together with the little time they had. My job was to promote the concert on Facebook, as well as to put together a little sneak-preview of one of the sisters singing in the concert.

I was excited to meet people there that had heard about the concert via Facebook- missionary work 2.0! haha. The concert was incredible, thanks to the amazingly gifted singers and instrumentalists that brought the spirit into the chapel. The whole concert was focused on Jesus Christ, and I was reminded that as disciples of the Lord we are expected to share our talents that others may come closer to Him! 

Although it may have been Easter weekend over in the states, we don't celebrate till this Sunday! I think it was a good thing, because Romanians sure love there Easter traditions, including making tons of delicious food and doing spring cleaning... come to think of it- mom and dad always had us cleaning up the yard while listening to conference growing up! 

This year was special as it is the first that Romania received a LIVE broadcast in their native tongue! This was really big, as in years past, they had to wait a little to get the recorded broadcast. What a blessing it is to be in a day of technology. The first session was Saturday night after the concert (Saturday morning session in the US).

Sunday morning, we snuck in an hour of contacting in the rain before we had to be at the church for the priesthood session at 12:00 pm. I always love watching this session on my mission, because it makes me appreciate all of the times Dad and the bros and I went together. After watching another session in the afternoon, I put on the second bi-annual Scripture Chase Championship. It is basically Pictionary but guessing a reference of scripture instead. All the missionaries loved it and I had fun hearing them all relate the scriptures to their own life (that was part of the game). We had a trophy waiting for the winners along with some Ukrainian cookies and a kendama sticker. 

Sunday night was what really made the weekend, however. Elder Trottier AND I took off in our little car into a little village just outside of Bucuresti called 1 Decembrie. The Brinaru family lives over there- one of my favorite families in Bucuresti.  I was greatly anticipating this opportunity to be with a Romanian family in their home, watching the prophet and apostles speak! In the little "sat" (village) we saw some families having BBQs, and even a bunch of dude skinning a sheep! Arriving at their doorstep was kind of surreal- muzica populara (Romanian traditional music) was being played by the neighbors who were also having a BBQ, the sun was setting, and we were standing in front of a cute little cottage in a place that only a handful of people in the world know about. We felt so at home- I love the Romanian culture.

We were warmly greeted by Stefen, their twelve year old grandson and Fratele Branaru- a big classic Romanian man. Sora Branaru was in the kitchen in the middle of the process of cleaning the chickens that they had slaughtered that day yet somehow managed to serve us dinner! She prepared an incredible ciorba de gaina, homemade schnitzel, amazing bread, and tiramisu for dessert. Mmm! After some dinner table chats and lots of laughs, we plopped onto the couch, and listened to the words of God's chosen leaders of His church. 

Nicaieri nu-i ca acasa. Watching General Conference with familia Brinaru.

This is what the gospel is all about- happiness in the family because of the Gospel of Jesus Christ! I felt so at home because I knew this was the exact same thing my family was doing clear across the other side of the earth. No Dad had not finished butchering twenty chickens (at least I don't think...), but I can assure that mom had a TASTY breakfast for everyone! Similarly, we all have different situations, but the gospel can bless families- everywhere! 

So here I was, on the couch, enjoying being with this great family, watching conference, and conversing in the Romanian language with pleasure. Wow. What a crazy adventure up until this point! I am so grateful for the progress made and things I have learned here in Romania. I know that I was called to Romania by a prophet of God, and what a miracle it is to help build the kingdom in so many ways!

I didn't even get to the things I learned from conference, but I want to say that I know President Nelson is a prophet of God, and that following his council with bring us happiness, and protection from the ever growing bad around us.

This week my testimony that Jesus Christ is my Savior was strengthened. I know that he rose from the dead, and overcame the world that we might do so as well!

Love,

Elder Ditto