A fuller version of Elder Kaufman's Homecoming by Brian Carptenter

HE IS HERE

WEEK 105 - THE LAST EPISTLE - "Till We Meet"

Elder Kaufman arrives at the

Pierre Elliot Trudeau Airport tomorrow

                                                        

Thursday, September 2  @  9:05pm.  

                                        

All are welcome

As Elder Kaufman says, 

"The more the merrier!'

THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR SUPPORT

DURING THESE PAST 2 YEARS!

* * *

Mom,

It's official: this is my last email home. 

It has been an amazing 2 years.  I have learned a great deal about the Saviour and his gospel, myself, and the importance of service.  I'm certain that if these critical principles are a part of my life (or anyone else's), they will bring me back to God.

I have developed a great love for God's words.  I have learned that comfort is found in the scriptures (see Jacob 2:8).  In addition to comfort, important and necessary doctrines regarding salvation are clear and abundant (see 1 nephi 15:14).  However, the most important thing is that God's voice (revelation) is heard whenever someone seriously studies the scriptures (see D&C 18:35-36).  This approach to scripture study separates us from most faiths.  

I have learned to appreciate family.  Being away from the people I missed the most has fueled my hope and excitement to spend eternity with you guys.  I know that God's power unites families -- thats what it's all about (see Matthew 16:19).

I'm extremely grateful that I spent these last two years in Ogden.  The investigators I taught and families I met all touched me and blessed my testimony.  I am eternally thankful for these unforgettable experiences. However, the coolest thing is that I will be able  to spend all of eternity with all of these people (see 2 Nephi 9:14 & D&C 18:15-16).  

I feel completely content with my mission.  In fact, I feel like I have received God's approval.  It is the neatest feeling -- nothing compares to it.  Thank you for encouraging and preparing me for this.  This has been the best thing that has happened to me...I will always remember this.

This is the toughest thing to do, but I know it has to be done.  Please pray for me -- I need it.

I love you so much.

Elder Jonathan Kaufman.

P.S: till we meet.

WEEK 105 - A Last Good-bye to special friends

Elder Kaufman toured the mission today  (Tuesday Aug 31) and said good-bye to many good families he met during his mission..
The Ogdens are from Logan and had Elder Kaufman for lunch one last time,  reminiscing about all the good times they had together. Sister Ogden sent this picture to us for which we are so grateful . :)
(No email from Elder Kaufman today.   Maybe tomorrow, the day before he leaves....)

WEEK 104- Transitions Are Tough; However, They more often Bring Extra or Additional Happiness

Click on picture to see a larger version

Hey Mom and Pops,

It's hard to believe that we toured temple square two years ago.  It was amazing to see familiar buildings and thinking back to when I was extremely nervous to leave you and become a missionary.  I now feel a little nervous thinking that in a couple of days I will be leaving the 'missionary thing' behind and becoming a man.  Transitions are tough; however, they more often  bring extra or additional happiness.  For example, I am sure that when Lehi and his family were asked to leave their home and establish a foreign land, they felt inadequate and most certainly scared.  However, as their account goes on, it is evident and clear that the Lord helped them every step of the way and led them to a better place (see 2 Nephi 10:20).  I know God will do the same for me.

I had some amazing experiences in Salt Lake today: some were spiritual and others were just plain funny.  But due to a lack of time, I will tell you about them when I get back home -- only in a couple of days:)).

I'm pretty sure that I will have time to email you next week.  Next week will be my final email home. What a crazy concept...Keep praying for me.  I love you tons.

Can't wait to see ya:)

Elder Jonathan Kaufman

WEEK 103 - Let's Just Say my Testimony Underwent a Major Boost!

Mom,

Transfers occured yesterday. And as you already know, I am serving with Elder Attridge.  However, the coolest thing that happened this transfer is that I became the first 'solo zone-leader' (without a zone-leader companion) this mission has ever seen.  Pres. Olson told me that I should see this as a huge compliment and privilege.  Pretty cool huh?

I have not started to pack up yet.  That idea really scares me.  I think, and I could be wrong, but this is only something Heavenly Father wants me to put off.  He always wants us to be urgent.  Urgent people get things done. But in this case, putting off the idea of going home will help me remained focused and complete the things Heavenly father wants me to get done (see Matthew 16:25). 

I have to report on the amazing baptism that took place on Sunday.  Kathleen and Alexis Chapman showed their love and trust for God and entered into the cleansing waters of baptism.  I have grown to love this family -- they have blessed my testimony.  To look at where they started and where they are at now is just amazing.  Giving up anything is always super difficult and could sometimes leave us feeling like we are missing something and empty.  But sacrificing something for the cause of Christ somehow brings a feeling of accomplishment, acceptance from God, and fills us with the Holy Ghost (see 3 Nephi 9:20 & Moroni 8:26).  Seeing Kathleen give me a smile (I was one of the witnesses) right before she was immersed in the water was the greatest reward I could receive for our work with her.  With just one smile, she communicated so many amazing messages to me. However, above all the messages that were communicated that day, the one I remember and treasure the most is the one that came from Heaven.  When we meet, I will tell you all about it.  Let' just say my testimony underwent a major boost!  This is what the Gospel is all about (see D&C 18:15-16).  

Also, this next Saturday, Elder Attridge and I will baptize Gary Parkinson (as if God has not blessed us enough).  He is another amazing investigator that has touched my spirit in a very deep way. I promise to give a full report on his baptism next week.  Speaking of next week, for p-day, I will be heading down to Salt Lake and going to the temple with the rest of the departing missionaries. That being said, I will probably email you later on in the day. Just thought I'd notify ya.

I really hope you accepted the Bertoldo's invitation;) I think it's a good idea...whatever my opinion's worth haha.

Please tell Bro Carpenter 'thank you' for his nice email to me.  I love him and cannot wait to see everyone again!     

I know God lives and plays a big part in our lives.  We just got to find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13) .

Love you... a lot!

Elder Jonathan Kaufman

Elder Kaufman's New and Last Companion for the Last 2 Weeks of His Mission

Elder Attridge and Elder Kaufman 

Picture sent via email by the Haltermans, during a visit by the elders to  their home (tonight, Aug 16, 2010)

WEEK 102 - Time Is Really Winding Down, Really Fast

Mom,

Give my best to Elder Carpenter.  The assignment to be an assistant is big and requires a great missionary.  Obviously his mission President chose the right missionary!  I love him.

I can't believe another week just ended.  Time is really winding down, really fast.  Although time is not on our side, I'm glad I get to serve in Farmington for the remainder of my mission.  The Lord really blessed me with special individuals that have touched my spirit in a very profound way. 

I love seeing people fully embrace the gospel.  This really brings me 'Godly Joy' and gives me a great glimpse of the fulfillment of the promise contained in D&C 18:15-16.  As I have taught Gary, one of our investigators, I'm amazed of how willingly he accepts and gives up, just for he sake of moving closer to God.  His level of commitment is simply amazing and his testimony is growing.  He is preparing to be baptized on the 22nd of August.  Please pray for him and us, as we do our best to help him.  Also, Kathleen, another one of our investigators, is determined to quit smoking.  She is amazing!  We promised her that before she would ever put a cigarette in her mouth, God would spiritually remind her that she shouldn't, through her conscience. We also encouraged her to act on the impressions she received because God promised more impressions (wisdom, truth, light, happiness, etc) that would put her feet on the right path that leads to baptism (see 2nephi 28:30).  What's most amazing is that she realized (for the first time) that God is part of her (our) life everyday (see Alma 10:6, Deuteronomy 5:24). She is preparing to be baptized this Saturday. The Gospel is amazing.

The excellent examples of our investigators have motivated me to re-read the Book of Mormon before I return home.  As I am undertaking this challenge and seeing my investigators consume every ready assignment we give them, I've come to realize the truth in this very wise beautitude: Blessed are they who do hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be filled with the Holy Ghost (see 3 Nephi 12:6).  Like the people of Zarahemla, serving under King Benjamin, I have lost desires to do bad when placed in situations where I would usually fall (see Mosiah 5:2).  I assume my investigators are experiencing the same thing.  

It took me awhile, but I have finally learned that I could learn something from everyone (see D&C 18:10).  I hope we can all realize that every one is special and valuable in the sight of God, and hopefully ours.

I love you lot's!

Elder Jonathan Kaufman  

WEEK 101 - Blessed Are They that Have not Seen, and yet Have Believed"

Mom,

I think it is so unfair that you guys are vacationing on the beach in Cape Cod, while I am bound to my white shirt and tie trying to endure the intense Utah heat!  Actually, I think it's a good thing I'm not with you because if I was, I would be parading my missionary tan (including tan lines above the elbows, neck and pasty white legs), which is not too attractive.  I hope you have a blast while you are there.

Besides us trying to survive this incredible heat, Elder Bland and I are trying to accomplish great goals.  In order to end our missions on a 'high note', we agreed that we had to step it up, just a little.  With the Lord, we want to baptize two more individuals.  That being said, as that as our focus, the Lord, out of nowhere, provided two new investigators for us.  We both viewed that as a tender mercy from heaven and acted immediately.  What I mean by 'acted' is that we helped them understand that showing faith, repenting, submitting to baptism, receiving the holy ghost, and enduring to the end were not only good things but necessary if they wanted to return to Heaven.  What is amazing is that, without us ever trying to convince them that these were the right things to do, they willingly agreed to and accepted baptism dates!  Their story reminds me of when Alma the younger taught the people who were kicked out of the synagogues because of their poverty.  Alma assured them that," blessed are they who humble themselves without being compelled to be humble; or rather, in other words,  blessed is he that believeth in the word of God, and is baptized without stubbornness of heart, yea, without being brought to know the word, or even compelled to know before they will believe" (see Alma 32:16).  Also, the Savior confirmed those words when he said,"blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed" (see John 20:29).  I guess the point these super inspired men are trying to get across is that blessed are they who have faith and trust in the Lord and, "lean not into their own understanding" (see Proverbs 3:5).  

This week has been very inspirational for me.  As I have studied more closely the principle of grace, my eyes have been opened.  For the longest time I have misinterpreted this scripture 2 Nephi 25:23.  I thought that as a result of us working our hardest Christ would make up the rest.  Although that is partially true, the full truth is that Christ is with us the whole way.  He doesn't just wait patiently and then step in at the last moment.  Why would he when he told us to be, "anxiously engaged in a good cause... and bring to pass much righteousness" (see D&C 58:27).  If we think of the Savior as a person who just steps in at the last moment, we fail to keep our baptism covenants which obliges us to remember him always (see D&C 20: 77-79).  Also, I think that when Nephi says "after all we can do", he is not referring to you and I, but to the Savior and us. Through our covenants, we can truly access his strenghth and perfection.  Grace is not the end reward given to those who try their best, but it is given to them during the process of doing their best. 

Thanks for all the support. I love you tons.

Elder Jonathan Kaufman

Below: Picture of Elder Bland and Kaufman with some relatives of Elder Bland during a dinner appointment on July 26 2010 in Farmington.

WEEK 100 - The Mission Is Beginning to Change

Hey Mom,

What an amazing story! I can't believe the missionaries ran into Marrisa. I think it would be really neat if she did attend my homecoming talk! This story really verifies and is a testimony of Alma's counsel to his son Helaman: by small and simple things are great things brought to pass (Alma 37:6). I hope to continue my desire to live and share the Gospel with all of my friends. I guess if I didn't I really wouldn't be a friend. I think it is also really amazing to think how the gospel connects everyone. This is why I think the Savior wants us to "let our lights shine...and glorify our Father in Heaven". Our examples have a far-reaching effect for good or for bad. We have to be "witnesses of God at all times, in all things, and in all places ye may be in" (Mosiah 18:9). This will ensure zero regrets and added happiness.

On Thursdays Elder Bland and I baptized Connor Nielson. It was another amazing baptism because about 50 ward members showed up! Nothings makes someone feel more loved than when others express their support through actions and not just words. The Holy Spirit of Promise was there to witness to us that everything that took place was valid in God's sight. The room was just filled with the spirit. It was amazing! Thats what it's all about!

Yesterday we attended my final Zone Leader Council. The mission is beginning to change. They are going to institute new meetings, less interviews with our mission president, less zone conferences and so much more. I'm glad I will not be here to experience all of that.

Besides that, many heaven-sent ideas flowed into my mind, which will greatly benefit me now and after my mission. It was a great meeting.

Also, Elder Bland and I held a zone study last Saturday. One of the bug issues in our zone is 'teasing'. Therefore we taught the zone the importance of unity and the consequences of disunity. The final commitment was to replace teasing with compliments. I really think we removed blind-spots and opened the eyes to a lot of missionaries. I think before we can see more success as a zone we have to try and be more Christ-like. I think great things will come from that.

I love you tonns!

Elder Jonathan Kaufman

Picture of YOUTH SPCETACULAR held on July 17 2010

WEEK 99 - Today is "Transfer Tuesday" and I Found out that Elder Bland and I Will Be Staying Together

Mom,

Today is "transfer Tuesday" and I found out that Elder Bland and I will be staying together --Yay!.  Although it is really scary to think that we are both entering the last transfer of our mission life, it is also quite rewarding to think about all of our accomplishments, experiences, friends, and victories we've gained during this past 2 years. Even though I have underwent many trials and difficult times, the positive experiences always drown out the the negatives ones

On saturday we baptized Mason Botty.  Besides feeling the spirit and expanding his testimony, he also had many supporters right by his side.  A lot of his friends from Utah State University (Logan) came to cheer him on.  This was definitely an experience he will never forget.  That's what the gospel is all about! 

Tomorrow Elder Bland and I will baptize Connor.  Isn't that amazing?  Serving as a missionary really brings the neatest experiences.  Who would have thought that two 21 years old's could help prepare people to change their lives and follow Christ?  Although we recognize that God is the reason and ultimate factor behind every success, it is just an intriguing thought. Doctrine and Covenant 84:88 gives us a great clue as to finding an answer:  With God's companionship all is possible (Luke 1:37).  It is amazing to think that any covenant child can access his divine help, insights, and comfort, as long as they are worthy.  With God we can do anything!

Elder Bland and I typically drive our car from appointment to appointment.  Since our area covers 3 stakes, walking, or even biking , would be horribly ineffective.  It"s great to have the luxury of air conditioning and so forth while many other missionaries endure and combat the intense of heat of Utah's summer! That sounded very cruel, but really, I am really grateful!  Remember last summer I  walked the streets of Clearfield all summer long?  I commend any missionary that could stand proselyting without a car in the summer - God bless!

I really miss families like the  Mckees, Bywaters, Hoffmans, Dunns, Stephenson and so on.  Give my best to them!

For your information, the Youth  Spectacular was a huge success! and yes, I did take a good number of pictures.  I will send them next week:)

I love you a lot!

Elder Jonathan Kaufman

WEEK 98 - The Work Here Is Flowing Steadily

Mom,

Thank you so much for that email! Not only was it very detailed, but for the first time in a long time, I felt very comfortable with the idea that I will be home soon. Exciting things seem to be happening back home and I am really happy I get to be there soon. Although I know it will be hard to let go of my mission, friends and memories I made here, I am confident God will make my transition really smooth. As Paul says: "... All things work together for good to them that love God...." (Romans 8:28).

I want to apologize ahead of time because this email will be shorter than usual. Time is very limited: we have to head up to Ogden and help out with the final preparations for tonight's event!  The event is called "Youth Spectacular". The amazing part is that nearly 180 missionaries are going to participate.   To say this is going to be a small event is a huge understatement.

The work here is flowing steadily. We will baptize one of our gators on Saturday and then one more on Wednesday of next week. The Lord has blessed us tremendously and we really recognize his hand in all things.

I love God. We are so lucky to have the privilege of making covenants with Him. I know that through our covenants we access his perfection and become one with him.  In fact, if faithfull, we can gain all that He has. This is the "good news" of the Gospel.

I love you so much!

PS: I will write more next week, promise!

Love ya!

--------------------

Hey pops,

Let me just start off by saying I love you. I'm not sure I say that enough.

I will stay in Farmington until the end of my mission --

Isn't KONA a pretty good guitar? I think so!


I can't wait to get caught up with all the new movie and music that has come over the past two years!

Again, I love you lots!

Your son,
Elder Jonathan Kaufman



Guitar given as a gift to Elder Kaufman and brought home through the kindness of the Lahaches when they visited Utah two weeks ago.  Thanks a million Tim and Natalie!!!!!!!!!
The names of all the companions of Elder Kaufman, and the places where he served are written on the left side.  The drawings were made by Elder Kafoa!  What a great  mission souvenir  for Jonathan.

WEEK 97 - Yesterday I Spent the Day with the Assistants to the President...and Helped Prepare for Zone Conference

Mom,

You are right, everybody in Utah is really tall. Sometimes we will meet deacons and teachers who tower over us -- That's a scary sight. Speaking of tall people, Aaron had the neatest spiritual experience during his baptism that confirmed to him that what he did was true. We did our part and explained that that feeling of approval came from the Holy Spirit of Promise and he could always qualify for those blessings as he remains worthy. He still has a great desire to learn more about the layers of the gospel (seeing as there are many) -- that is what it's all about!

I received your letter yesterday. I assume that because of the holidays the mailing of letters were delayed -- But I'm not bitter about it haha! I really appreciate each letter your mail. Even though I might not express it in words, whenever I receive your letters my eyes open wider and I smile from ear to ear. Thank you so much!

Unlike past experiences, our zone did not participate in any parade. In fact, we are really discouraged to participate. I wasn't to impressed with that, but 'c'est la vie'.

Yesterday I spent the day with the assistants to the president. I worked their area and helped prepare for zone conference. I have to admit that inter-city Ogden is absolutely different from Farmington. We were constantly on-the-go and taught about 10 lessons; that never happens in Farmington! Also, we met a wide variety of people: Some claimed to be Jesus; the prophet; the annointed one; the devil; and so much more. .... all and all, I really love my mission.

After meeting all the unique people in Ogden and comparing them to the people of Farmington, my thoughts led me to two scriptures: 1 Nephi 17:35 (first sentence) and D&C 18:10. I agree with Samuel when he said that "man looketh on the outward appearance, while God looketh on the heart. While we misjudge people because of a lack of material possessions and popularity, and a low self-image, God never makes that mistake. We are completely equal in his eyes and all have the same equal opportunity to progress in our time of probation. The universal goal for us is to become perfect. That is the requirement (Matthew 5:48). By ourselves we cannot reach it. Wha'ts more, material possessions, popularity and even a high-self image will not aid us in that pursuit. Only with and through Jesus can that goal be accomplished. Do you see how equal we are? The only thing we really need is our Savior. I am happy to know that his invitation to "Come unto me" is open to every one (2 Nephi 26:25,27,33). All of us have an equal chance to find him and to reach the most important goal: Salvation and Exaltation.

I love you so much,

Elder Jonathan Kaufman!

WEEK 96 - The Lahaches Stopped by Last Night

Mom,

All through out my mission I assumed that life back home was on pause; however, meeting up with the Lahaches last night changed (drastically) that idea.  It was a delight learning about the changes that have occurred over the past 2 years -- I cannot wait to see these things for myself. I was happy to find out that the Lasalle Ward attendance has increased and that many of the youth are either serving or preparing to serve full-time missions.  I have definitely developed a testimony of Alma's wise words to his son Helaman: "Learn wisdom in thy youth, yea...learn to keep the commandments" (Alma 37:35).  When this powerful idea is implemented, children will grow up to be valiant sons and daughters of God who understand their purpose and know where they are going.  I assume the parents of these children fully agree with John when he said: ' I have greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth' (3 John 1:4). 

Aaron Turner was baptized on Saturday!  It was a great experience for both him and his non-member family.  Because the spirit was there in great abundance and touched their hearts, his mother and father (who have been exposed to the LDS faith their whole lives) hinted to the bishop that it is time for them to start a serious study of our faith.  This example proves to me that God still blesses us with tender mercies!  Also, this family has been part of the Farmington 7th Ward focus list for over three years -- many prayers have been offered for them.  Many might wonder why answers to these prayers weren't answered earlier, but we must not forget that our prayers are always subject to the timetable of God.  We have to trust that He knows what He is doing and that He can do it best.  I testify that He can and does.

Elder Bland and I found three new investigators and committed all them all to baptism last Sunday.  The Lord has been helping us tremendously!  I confess to you that the Lord's hand is seen and appreciated here in Farmington (D&C 59:21)!

Keep praying for us -- We need it!

Well, I hope God will continue to bless our family. I love you a lot!

Elder Jonathan Kaufman

------------

Dad,

I'm having a blast.  Ending my mission in this area is ideal. I serve among great missionaries and members.

The Lahaches stopped by last night and picked up my guitar and shoes. It was great to see them and realize that Tim is still Tim and Natalie is Natalie.  It was also a delight learning about things back home.  Tell them thanks for everything.  I was really tired last night -- tell them that was the  reason why I was so non-energetic.

  

Well pops, thanks for keeping me posted. I love you a lot.

Elder Jonathan Kaufman

WEEK 95 - Last night Elder Bland and I Held a Zone Study and Established a New Vision for our New Zone

Mommy,

Happy Father's Day!  Although I wasn't home to celebrate this special day with all of you guys, I want you to know that many prayers offered in hopes that you would feel of my love all the way from Utah. I hope that prayer was honored.

During sacrament meeting many inspiring thoughts (Heaven sent, I'm convinced) came to me.  Many of these thoughts were in perfect harmony with the theme of each talk: Father's day.  One of the greatest insights (and most profound, I might add) was that the honoring of fatherhood gives us a glimpse of what our universal Father in Heaven is like and the qualities and attributes He possesses.   That being said, Dad, thank you for giving me a sample of what my Heavenly Father is like. You have always taught (through example as well) me to be a better person and to obtain a higher, or a more Heavenly mindset.  This simple but deep principle corresponds perfectly with what the Savior taught: Matthew 5:48, 3 Nephi 27:27, 3 Nephi 12:16, 3 Nephi 14:7-11, Phillipians 4:8, 1 Corinthians 2:9.  Words cannot describe how thankful I am for you and your example.  Thank you. I love ya!

I have been concentrating my studies on the Savior this last week.  I have realized that we first have to understand the effects of the fall in order to fully appreciate the sacrifice and atonement of Christ.  In 1 Nephi 10:6 and Mosiah 16:4 we learn that the fall literally separates us from God (physically and spiritually) and causes us to be "endlessly lost".  In this condition, salvation is impossible. We cannot return to live with God through our own efforts.  We are in desperate need of a hero.  I am glad I get to teach that Christ is that Hero -- he is the Savior.  With him, because of him, and through him, we can all find our way (He is the way: John 14:6), be saved, and return to our Heavenly Home.  While many say that Christ compensates or makes up the difference, I think saying that he makes all the difference is more accurate.  I know that He saves us from the fall and we can one day be at one with God through the at-one-ment.  I love our Savior.

This week we anticipate to baptize Aaron.  He has an amazing testimony of the restored Gospel and has great hopes to live faithfully within the gospel limits to the end.  Last night we found 2 more individuals who are really interested in our church. We will begin teaching them this Sunday.  Please pray for us.  

Last night Elder Bland and I held a zone study and established a new vision for our new zone.  The vision is to go to the temple often so we can receive revelation for our investigators.  I am certain that we (God and us) will be able to uncover and resolve concern that prevent those from coming to Christ.  It is going to work.  Oh yeah, we also held the meeting on a mountain. Pretty neat huh?:)

Anywho, I love you guys tremendously.

Elder Jonathan Kaufman

---------------------------
Dad,

Of course I thought about ya.  I would be a horrible son if I didn't.  I hope your father's day was a delight

Anywho, I am  glad to hear Pat is doing good. It's fair to say that prayer and fasting works! Give him my best.

Thanks for all the updates.  I love ya boss

Elder Jonathan Kaufman 

WEEK 94 - Farmington Is a Beautiful Place

Mommy,

Farmington is a beautiful place. Besides its fantastic families and promising potential, the geography is amazing (I took pictures). I know I will have a lot of fun serving here for the remainder of my mission. In addition to that, serving with Elder Bland will definitely enhance the whole experience. I greatly look forward to the upcoming adventures here in Farmington.

To add to the excitement of being here, we had the privilege of baptizing a guy named Ivan Paz on Saturday. (He was a former baseball player and has a firm testimony). He has been taught for a long while but has finally realized that God has granted him a divine witness testifying of the truthfulness of the glorious gospel. His story reminds me of the Lamanites who were converted but "knew it not" (3 Nephi 9:20) . I am sure this occurs often. I can recall many instances, before and on my mission, where God has tried to communicate with me. However, because my pride stood in the way, I was unable to receive revelation that could have possibly grown my testimony or helped someone else's. Like Amulek, our hearts are sometimes hard, making it very difficult to recognize when God whispers to us (Alma 10:6).

These thoughts led me to study personal revelation this week. Here are some of my notes: Because God speaks to us through a quiet whisper, it is important that we heed the saviour's invitation and "Come unto Him". In order to hear a whisper, it helps to be close to the person who is speaking. How do we come unto God to be close to him? According to John 14:23, Obedience to the laws of God, enables Him to move closer to us, thus making it easier to hear the voice of God in our lives. Kind of a neat I thought.

Because Elder Bland and I transferred in together, we are still trying to adjust to the area and become familiar with all the leaders. In the course of doing that, we found a guy named Aaron who is extremely interested in the church. After being taught the first lesson, he has a great desire to follow Christ and get baptized -- His date is set for the 28 of June. Another tender mercy.

Thank you for all your prayers. We really need them!

I love yah:)

Elder Jonathan Kaufman

P.S congrats on the baptism!:)

Meeting 2 families in Farmington, Utah

Elder Kaufman and Elder Bland meeting 2 families in Centerville/Farmington, Utah We received these pictures via emails from two different families on the same day June 10 2010!

What a joy to receive!

Top picture taken by the Halterman family.

Bottom picture taken by the Wheeler family

WEEK 93 - Saturday I Found out That I Will Be Transfered to Farmington, Utah

Mommy,

My stay in Roy has come to an end. Saturday I found out that I will be transfered to Farmington, Utah . Also, along with moving, I will become a zone leader (again...) and serve with Elder Bland! Isn't that amazing?! Not only will I have started my mission with him, but I will finish too...

I was trusted in establishing a new zone. Elder Bland and I will be the the first zone leaders there. He has changed so much. Mission life is great!... I am really excited for the upcoming transfer and look forward to much success.

Last Saturday was amazing: we had the privilege of baptizing 4 of our investigators. Although planning and preparing for 4 different baptisms is very difficult and challenging, the godly joy that accompanies us at each baptism, fully compensates for everything else. I think it is fair to say that Elder Kreiberg and I work our guts out! In fact, we baptized 16 in our 4 1/2 month stay together -- nothing short of miraculous. Like dad always says, "When you work for the Lord, you recieve his pay." His payment transcends worldy payment. A scripture comes to mind: 1 Corinthians 2:9.

To add to the excitment, Elder Kreiberg was called to be a new district leader/ trainer. He is really prepared and ready. I am really going to miss that kid. He is one of the few missionaries I can endure 4 1/2 months (which is rare) with. He is like a brother -- I love him.

I am really going to miss all the neat families I have met and taught. Great comfort is found in Doctrine & Covenants 18. We learn that we will experience everlasting joy with those that we have taught the Gospel to. In addition to that, D & C 130:2 states that " the same sociality which exist among us here will exist among us there. The Gospel plan really outlines and maps outs our whole life. Our eternal joy and happiness depends largely on how well we use our agency. I hope all of us will yield our agency to God and "let the consequence follow".

Thank you for everything. I miss and love you so much!
Love,
Elder Jonathan kaufman

P.S.: Please give Pat my best. Tell him that my comp and I constantly fast and pray for him.

WEEK 92 - Transfers Are Next Week and I Will Most Likely Get Transfered

Mom,

I too cannot believe it is June. Time has really passed rapidly. It is really hard to imagine that I will be home this September and continue life without a name tag (that is a weird idea). Although the transition seems very difficult, many of my former companions, who are now home, have given me great advice. Hope for a happy return home, now seems a lot easier and achievable.

We had a blast for Memorial Day. We joined a family for a large family gathering for lunch. Besides lunch, we also played some baseball. And in case you're wondering: I did hit a couple of home-runs;)! Many were shocked that baseball was played in Canada. In fact, I constantly have to inform Americans (not all, but a few) that Canada is VERY similar to America and that certain seasons permit us to play summer sports.... ha ha.

In addition to 'hanging out' we also taught some lessons. We also confirmed two baptismal interviews and made some preparations for Saturday. This Saturday we will baptize 4 of our investigators! Although that sounds amazing, baptisms require a lot of preparation. That being said, please pray for us!


I have been studying the Mosiah chapters lately. I have noticed the differences between the types of Christ and the types of the Devil. Compare the way King Benjamin led his people to the way King Noah did. One of my greatest discoveries is found in these two verses: Mosiah 2:1,5 and Mosiah 19:11. While King benjamin encouraged his people to gather as families near the temple and learn, King Noah commanded all the fathers to leave their wives and children behind to protect their lives. Similarly, the atonement of Jesus Christ was motivated by love to save his eternal family members, while the adversary is motivated by selfishness and focuses on himself. Depending on who we serve, determines our motivations and ultimately our eternal rewards (Matthew 6:24) .

Well, that's all I got. Transfers are next week and I will most likely get transfered -- Chances are excellent.


I love you tons,

Elder Jonathan Kaufman