Pinay na ako.

Sinubukin ko ang balut!!!! I tried balut. I've got pictures to prove it. I had Christmas Eve dinner at my Relief Society President's house (whose son happens to be our Branch Mission Leader). Anyway. It didn't taste bad. Just the thought of what it was made it hard to swallow. I don't think mine was that developed so I didn't feel a beak or anything...


For Christmas here everyone has pasta! We had three meals of pasta on Christmas day. Each family was oh so generous and I just love the people here.


But the best part of Christmas was the fact that Brother De Jesus came to church. Two of the De Jesus children come once in a while, but it means there is some progression. It's such a blessing to me because it's a family that has all my heart and soul, and I feel like I've been able to witness a miracle.


The other best part was that Brother and Sister San Agustin were confirmed (their baptism was on Christmas Eve), and all three of their children (who are actually teenagers/young adults) came to church!!


I'm so grateful for the love of God and that He sent His Son to atone for our sins and suffer all our pains and afflictions so that we can one day be worthy to enter into the presence of Heavenly Father. I know Jesus Christ's atonement is real. I know that is what Christmas is all about. He's done SO much for us. Just read "Teachings of Jesus" by Dallin H. Oaks.


I love you all. I hope you had a nice Christmas.


Love,
Sister Cope


1. At our Branch Christmas party with Arlene, an amazing investigator who continues to read the Book of Mormon and take notes about what she's read, with her children and some of her neighbors' children :)


2. This is Brother Dacuno (our Elder's Quorum President), Brother Madelo (our best branch missionary's husband), Brother Rey (my first baptisee who will be going to the temple this week to do baptisms for the dead!), Brother Romel (the funniest and most diligent member that assists in missionary work), and Edgardo (an investigator from the past who wants to be baptized, but works away from home).


3. My new companion, Sister Matuauto, and I at Christmas conference. (She's from Utah with Samoan descent just like Sister Siu. I'm destined to have polynesian companions my whole mission... Haha..) But Christmas conference was awesome. I really felt the Spirit during the talks and the musical numbers.


4.S. Mat, Bro. Rodel (branch presidency member and baptizer), Bro. San Agustin, Sis. San Agustin, Me :), and Lehi (our branch mission leader) at the San Agustin baptism on Christmas Eve. Sobrang masaya. They are an amazing example of acting on faith.


5. Peeling the balut and avoiding looking at it...


6. The partially developed baby bird in an egg... Yep. That's balut.


7. Sister Glaffy, the Relief Society President, encouraging me to shove the rest of it in my mouth... :D

And then there were two...

It's just me and Sister Daclan for about 36 hours. We meet our new companions tomorrow. We've been cleaning the house in preparation for them. We feel very blessed that neither of us are transferring so we get to spend Christmas with each other. For Christmas dinner I'll be spending the evening with my favorite family (The DeJesus's). But other than that it's work as usual.

Sister Litz left last night. A group of elders brought over a cake and we ate outside of our apartment and sang some hymns. It was happy. It's amazing how close you can grow to people within such a short time. We were only a tripanionship for three weeks, but I've learned a lot from her and Sister Daclan.

Only 2 of 5 of the family will be baptized this Saturday, but I'm still really excited. The daughters decided they weren't ready. And I agree that it's better to wait. Baptism is a huge commitment--it's a covenant with God! But the parents are so ready and I feel so blessed to have been an instrument in the Lord's hands in introducing them to the gospel. The Spirit was the real teacher, though. Sister San Agustin actually admitted to me the other day that she can understand/follow my Tagalog now and before she would just nod her head. Haha... But seriously, conversion only happens through the power of the Holy Ghost.

Working with the less actives is slow, but good. It's a whole other world in teaching less actives. They're at such varied stages. There are those that don't remember anything, those that are really bitter, those that are just having a hard time in life, and those that have solid testimonies, and I'm not quite sure why they're not at church. I really need to be acquainted with the scriptures and be in tune with the Spirit in order to teach them because their needs are so different. It's going to be a challenge, but I have hope that we can bring many souls back. I was listening to this one song by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir where they sing, "Bind me not to the pasture, chain me not to the... set me free to find my brother, and I'll return to thee some how." It's beautiful. I don't remember what it's called. But I definitely feel like I've been let outside the fenced area to find the lost sheep, and I'm so determined to get them back, to church, and, eventually, to the temple.

I know Heavenly Father has a plan for each of us. He has a lot of expectations of us, too. But we can rise to the occasion through faith in His Son Jesus Christ and the enabling power of the Atonement. This is a good time to evaluate our relationship with Christ. Why is He so important? Why do we honor Him and celebrate His birth? This is an amazing talk that helped strengthen my testimony and understanding of who Christ is and what it means that He is our Savior...http://lds.org/general-conference/2011/10/teachings-of-jesus?lang=eng&query=teachings+jesus

Maligayan Pasko!!!!!!!!! (Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!)

Mahal ko kayo,
Sister Cope

Pictures of the week:
1. Our Christmas tag wreath courtesy of my Dad :)
2. At Cloud 9 last P-day with Sister Litz and Sister Daclan, and the most of our district.
3. The beautiful view of the city and the sunset at Cloud 9.
4. Saying goodbye to Sister Litz...

Mahirap pero masaya.

Hard but happy. Those are the perfect words to describe the mission right now.


There's a quote from Jeffrey R. Holland in "Preach My Gospel" about how you'll be devastated when investigators don't keep commitments. Devastation doesn't quite cover it. It really is heartbreaking when you want to see people's lives improve and to see them act on their faith, but they don't. No one, I don't think, can ever prepare you for how hard a mission actually is.


BUT Heavenly Father is still aware of me!!! I see it with the people he blesses me to work with and those that I have the privilege of meeting. Like the other day this one member I had never worked with before volunteered to be my companion for the day. I felt so grateful because not only did she speak English well and was able to translate when I needed it, she also brought a wonderful Spirit to the lessons. On that same day we found this one less active member in the depths of Sampaga (one of my areas). He was baptized as a child and doesn't remember anything. Since then he's been baptized a born again, but he admitted that he's still confused and said we're welcome to come back. It was amazing--his receptiveness and sincerity. He has committed to pray to know if Joseph Smith is a true prophet. I know he will get his answer because I've seen it happen time and time again.


And we received new numbers from our mission president for our standards of excellence. For those who aren't familiar with mission terms these are goals for lessons and baptisms to help us focus and work hard. Our numbers have changed drastically. Our focus in the mission has completely shifted. It was 18 lessons to investigators with a member present and 10 Less Active visits. It is now 12 member present lessons and 15 less active visits. 2012 is the year to establish the Church in the Philippines. About 8 out of 10 baptized members go less active. It's not typical missionary work, but it's a special request from our area presidency. When this was announced I realized that that's what I have been called to do. To find the lost sheep and bring them back. I feel very strongly about this new focus. I know it is of great importance in order to build up the Church in the future and it is of great importance to Heavenly Father. He loves each of us so very much and He wants us to love and watch out for each other. I know this is a sacred responsibility and part of the baptismal covenants I have made.


As for my one baptism so far... He is still active! And he received the priesthood last week and blessed the sacrament this week. It is very special to witness him progress in the gospel.


4 of 5 members of a family I've been teaching are scheduled for a baptism on Christmas Eve. I'm very excited for them. I'll keep you updated on how it goes :)


That's all for now. I love what I'm doing. I feel like it's a taste of real joy/the love of God like the angel describes the fruit of the tree of life in 1 Nephi 11. Bringing people real happiness brings me real happiness as well. I know The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true and that we have a living prophet and modern revelation. Because God loves us just as much as He loves His children from Old testament time.. and all His children throughout all time. As great as His love is for all of us, it is also very individual. He knows us, and Christ knows us. We can rely on them for comfort, guidance, peace, love and all good things. They will bless us with our righteous desires as we strive to follow them.


Mahal ko kayo,
Sister Cope
Pictures of the week:

1. My investigators that went on our recent temple tour. It was raining, but it was still maganda. L-R: Diana Jane (she is about ready to be baptized, but there's a new rule in our mission that they need a responsible adult getting baptized with them or an active family member. it's a great new rule because it will help them stay active. her parents are preparing so as soon as they're ready, they'll be baptized together.), Ericka (Diana's sister who used to listen to the missionaries and her heart is beginning to accept us again. slowly but surely.), Mary Ann with baby Joanna (she has a testimony and is working on acting on it), Mark with baby Marky and Ailyn (she's been taught everything and we're catching him up. i've seen him change so much in the short time i've known him. it's a miracle.)


2. My district with the APs. Small, but amazing.


3. An awesome cloud at sunset; I think this was taken in my area of Antipolo Hills.

4. My housemates and companions right before Sister Siufanua was taken to the mission home for her flight the next morning. Sister Daclan and Sister Litz are the Sisters I have become a "tripanionship" with. It's a balancing act with two areas, but the members have been really supportive. I'll have a new companion on December 21st. Sister Daclan, too, because Sister Litz will be finishing her mission this transfer. S. Daclan and I are hoping to both stay in our areas. Other than that we'll be spending Christmas with companions we've known for only four days pala.

May nosebleed ako...

So in the Philippines they refer to being overwhelmed by the use of another language as a nosebleed. My language fast didn't last a whole week, but I have been working with members that know little to no English. Sister Siufanua has finished her mission and is back in the United States now. My new companions are Sister Litz and Sister Daclan. They're the other sisters in our house. We have extra responsibility with the same areas and only three of us so we go on splits with members. It's exhausting, but I know Heavenly Father doesn't give us anything we can't handle (1 Nephi 3:7). I've witnessed tender little mercies and had prayers answered this week and so I know Heavenly Father has not left me alone. I told Sister Siufanua that I felt like I've been pushed in front of an oncoming bus, but she quickly replied that God will give me the strength to be Supergirl. So I'm working on confidence in myself and reliance on Jesus Christ to make up the difference. This is a great opportunity for the branch as well. They're stepping up their fellowshipping, and there are different members who have volunteered to go with me this week. I'm tired, but excited. I know that God has high expectations, but that we can meet them through His Son and with the support of one another.

Mahal ko kayo,
Sister Cope

P.S. Eliza R. Snow is epic... She was the second or third president of the Relief Society in the early days of the Church... and she wrote some of our beloved hymns. This quote is in the book "Daughters in My Kingdom":

"I will go forward... I will smile at the rage of the tempest and ride fearlessly and triumphantly across the boisterous ocean of circumstance... and the 'testimony of Jesus' will light up a lamp that will guide my vision through the portals of immortality."

Boys wear headbands in the Philippines.

Just a nice cultural fact. Haha...


This is my last full day with my trainer or "nanay" as we say in the Philippines. She is returning home to Utah on Wednesday, but will be going to the mission home tomorrow. I'm going to miss her a lot. She has the biggest heart and is a great example to me.

We've seen a lot of miracles together, especially this week. Nine of our investigators came to church this week. That's a big deal here. They're really showing their faith and coming closer to Heavenly Father through Jesus Christ.


Currently, I am doing a language fast. I haven't used much English for about two days now. I'm planning on going for a week where I "magtagalog lang." It's hard, but I was inspired after a visit with one of the less actives in our area. She learned Japanese in a week! And enough Arabic to keep her job in a week. I came to a realization that if I show my faith, God can bless me with the same thing. Even if I'm not fluent by the end of the week, I know that it'll be easier in the future after this week. The gift of tongues is real. I've seen and heard about it in relation to other missionaries.


I also know that the power of the Holy Ghost is real. Your heart has to be soft enough and your mind open to feel it. I've witnessed that this week with a stark contrast between lessons that we were both (the investigators and Sister Siufanua and I) uplifted and felt edified, and lessons that I felt practically sick during because of hard-heartedness. If we're humble, if we love God, and if we do all we can to invite the Spirit into our lives, it will happen.


I know that Heavenly Father puts people in our path and in our lives for a reason. Consider that as you interact with those around you. They need you and you need them. There is a big emphasis in our mission right now to help less actives. I've seen how important the support of others is in staying true to the gospel of Jesus Christ and in survival. I read some beautiful stories in the February 2011 Liahona (http://lds.org/liahona/2011/02?lang=eng). Keep a loving eye on those around you. Part of being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (and just being a good human being) is service.


Mahal ko kayo. Namimiss ko kayo.


With love,
Sister Cope


Pictures of the Week:
So for Thanksgiving... because I think it was last week... We enjoyed pancit, mango juice, and fudgee bars because our dinner appointment was cancelled.
And we made thankful turkey hands :)

I washed clothes by hand for the first time!

Our nanay who usually does the laundry had a family emergency so Sister Siufanua taught me how to scrub my clothes by hand. It's fun for the first 10 seconds. But it does make for great bonding time. Nanay is the best one to go to for mission chismis (gossip).

So I'm almost fully Pinay... I just need to learn Tagalog and eat balut... But I've got plans for Thanksgiving...

Anyway this week has seemed a little slower, but also rewarding. The lessons we've been having are fewer and farther in between, but there's been some quality bonding and finding. We've met so many amazing families recently. Our mission has a focus on families right now. If a family is baptized together they're much more likely to stay active because they have a support system. We invited one family and the dad accepted. He requested December 24th because it's the eve of Christ's birth and shortly after his wife and one of his three kids accepted the invitation as well. They are so awesome because they have shown so much faith already. It's like I said last week, I haven't even done much, but the Spirit has and they want to act on their faith and they are acting on their faith. It's so amazing to witness people's lives and countenances change as they grow closer to Heavenly Father through Jesus Christ. Brother Rey, who was baptized two weeks ago, bore his testimony to us as we taught him and his sister and brother-in-law. It was beautiful and powerful.

I know the gospel of Jesus Christ changes lives. I've witnessed it in my own life and in the lives of those around me. I'm witnessing it right now. I know the gospel really comes from God because the fruits of living it are masarap. I love it here and I feel so grateful to be an instrument in the Lord's hand to share the love that I've felt from it.


Mahal ko kayo,
Sister Cope


Pictures of the week:
1. A map of my area right now, sort of. My branch is in San Isidro, but the areas I serve in are Siete Media, Hinapao/Joyous Heights, Santana, Sampaga, San Luis Brngy, Snto Nino, and Antipolo Hills.
2. This is an investigator named Mila with her husband and granddaughter. She's moving at the end of the month, but Sister Siufanua and I have had some great experiences with her. We really feel she was prepared to hear are message and that God put her in our path.
3. Another gorgeous sunset... these are a daily occurrence <3 4. Molly, the cute new puppy of our Relief Society president and her son our branch mission leader. 5. Enjoying a delicious drink that I don't know the name of at one of my investigators' homes. It has ube and coconut milk--and it's delicious. 6. This hilarious game of sexy lizards, balding pregancies, and wounded cats... I don't really know. It doesn't make sense in Tagalog either. This was taken at a Family Home Evening we did at the DeJesus's

Blaring Karaoke at 7 a.m. is normal

Everyday kind of normal... Haha. Just a fun Philippines fact.


My zone split during the last transfer meeting and we had a couple areas white-washed (both members of the companionship being new to the area they are put in). So we have a pretty new group in Antipolo. But it seems like a good, diligent, but fun zone. I will be getting a new companion in the middle of this next transfer because Sister Siufanua flies home to Utah on November 30th. I'm really hoping it's a Filipina because I need to be working on the language more, and with an American companion it's just second nature to speak English rather than Tagalog. I love Sister Siufanua, though, and I'll miss her a lot when she is gone. We work hard and have a good time together.


Our zone did a service project on Monday for some of our investigators. They moved and so a member with a jeepney and all the elders helped. It took up a lot of our P-day, but they really needed it so I'm glad we were able to. Sadly, they have moved into the other sisters' area. They even had baptismal dates! So that's kind of sad, but I'm thankful that we were able to instruments in the Lord's hands for introducing them to the gospel.


We really are just instruments, though. I though the other day as we were teaching this one family and inviting them to baptism, "We really haven't done anything and they're going to be baptized!" The Holy Ghost really is the key to conversion.


We had another temple tour this Saturday, where we walk around the grounds and explain about the importance. It's a really happy experience for the investigators. We bought pandesal (delicious, hot, special bread) to share for the hour-long ride there and nobody wanted any. (They ate rice cakes instead brought by another companionship.) But along the way someone stuck their hand in our jeepney asking for money and we were able to give them the pandesal. So yay.


Other than that the week has been pretty normal and intense with lessons, walking, and sunshine. One more experience, though, that I wanted to share was about this young boy named Gabriel. He's about 11, I think. He sat in on a lesson we were teaching to someone else, and then he had been asking one of the members in the area, "When are the missionaries going to return?" Because of some stuff that happened to him, I think he really liked hearing that God, this all-powerful being, loves him. Unfortunately, we can't teach kids by themselves because when they're baptized they go less active fast without a support system. So when we did return we invited his Aunt to be taught with him, and we told him about how God wants a relationship with him and about how to pray. There's this cool way Sister Siufanua teaches about God's phone number (2-2-2-1-1). Meaning you have two knees to kneel with, two arms to fold, two eyes to close, one head to bow, and one heart to pray from. His aunt is busy, but hopefully she'll find the time to listen so we can teach Gabriel, too.


I know that Heavenly Father answers are prayers. I know He is listening, and we just need to be in tune with the Holy Ghost to hear His answers.


We also had a powerful lesson about the Plan of Salvation with this one group of neighbors, and the truth that Jesus Christ knows what we went through because of what He went through really helped one of them. I know that His Atonement is real. I know that He knows what each of us has gone through, are going through, and will go through. He knows what it's like to be a single mother without the support of anyone, a child without the love of his or her family, a father trying to overcome a drinking problem. His suffering is very personal for us as individuals, and through Him we can overcome the trials placed in our path and the sins that taint our journey home to Heavenly Father.


Mahal ko kayo,
Sister Cope


Pictures ng linggo


1. The view from my bedroom window--sunset and a neon cross on the Catholic cathedral in the distance.
2. The temple tour crowd. L-R: Ailyn (who's the mother of Marky the baby and has a strong, beautiful testimony of the Book of Mormon), Sister SanAugustine (a fairly new investigator with a lot of faith to act on the things we've taught), Janine (the shy but sweet daughter of Sister SanAugustine), Sister Siufanua (being silly:), and Sister Madelo (an amazing member who is always fellowshipping our investigators, and recently sealed to her family in the temple!!).
3. The new Sister Cope ;)
4. The other new Sister Cope with Sister Siufanua.
5. A nicer picture of the temple tour group with me included :)

End of my 1st transfer

I've been here six weeks now. It's crazy. I love it.

My first baptism was happy. It was slow to start, but the Spirit was there. S. Siu and I sang the musical number (Lord, I would follow thee) in English and Tagalog. Rey bore his testimony.

We keep going to this one area called Antipolo Hills to find a referral from one of the Elders, and we cannot find her, but we keep meeting all these other great people. One sister joined the church in 1986 or something and she's been less active for almost just as long, but she just didn't know where to find a church, and she wants to learn the doctrine and come back.

And our security guard wants to be baptized, but we found out he's not in our area so he will be taught by different sisters.

I'm out of time, but I'll share an awesome story really quick. One of our investigators, Ailyn, told us this experience she had. She was really hungry and only had 10 pesos, and so she feasted on the word instead. She read her scriptures until she was able to fall asleep and when her asawa came home from work, she wasn't hungry anymore. It was so powerful when I heard it. Her faith is so great. There are so many people who are ready to hear the gospel. It's so beautiful how Heavenly Father takes care of us.

And another day we were trying to find new people and people were really rude to us (which is rare in the Philippines), but then we asked a question at this one tindahan (little store thing), and then we introduced ourselves and they welcomed us in. And they need the blessings of this gospel in their life and I'm so excited to go back and teach them. But God definitely puts us in the right place at the right time.

I know God loves us and that He's given us the means to return to Him. I know that we can help each other, and that the scriptures, especially the Book of Mormon help us, too.

Mahal ko kayo.
Sister Cope

Pictures of the Week:

1. This awesome rainbow cloud thing that we saw in Antipolo Hills. I think the people around us were wondering what we were doing... If only they had looked up. It kept changing colors, too! It was green, then purple, etc. So awesome.

2. The Antipolo Zone. This is everybody who is in my zone right now, but it just split and transfers are tomorrow so there will be maraming pagbabago (many changes).

3. This is Sister Rollyna and I. She was baptized in April, I think, but she always works with us and bears her testimony when we teach. She is amazing. And the flower arrangement she's holding is something she made. She has 3 adorable kids, and we're going to try to start teaching her husband soon.

4. As part of All Souls' Day, they put candles on their porches for the people they're remembering. This is a melted one in front of Sister Rollyna's home.

5. Sister Siufanua and I got matching earrings :)

6. Here's a close up. We'll have to wait until next P-day to wear them together...

7. Some ward members and Rey at his baptism. Unfortunately his eyes are closed and I don't have another copy... But still sobrang kasayahan (so much happiness).

Happy Halloween!!

It doesn't feel like it at all... Halloween isn't much here. They celebrate something else called "All Souls Day." As families they go to cemeteries and party and picnic. I'm guessing it'll be hard to teach for the next three days... (Because it starts today and goes until November 2nd, which is the real All Souls Day.)

It seems cool, though. If I wasn't a missionary and didn't have the responsibilities I have, I would love to go with one of the families we teach and participate in the celebrations. Everyone is really superstitious here and there is a strong belief in ghosts. Apparently there is one in our apartment, but if I think about it too much I just sing church songs. Haha...

Anyway... I have 8 minutes. And I'm trying to think of the most important things to say. And it's hard because the internet shop I'm in is sobrang mainit (very very hot). Something I say every week almost, but I have such a strong testimony of... God is aware of us. He sends people our way to lift us or puts people in our path to lift them. We left one lesson that went really sour, but saw miracles shortly after. Church attendance was really disappointing, but then we ran into the security guard, who we haven't even taught yet, and he was going to church at 1 o'clock with the ward. (I'm in the branch that meets at 8 a.m... It makes it really hard for investigators.) And there's this one family who we have met with once and three of the four that we taught came to church. And we were looking for a referral we had received up and down the hills of Antipolo and we met all these wonderful people who tried helping us with directions. And we invited many of them to be taught when we return to that particular area next week. And there were some complications with my first scheduled baptism this Saturday, and we were going to have to move the date, but it's all worked out. His name is Ray and he has a very good heart. I'm so excited for him. I know this gospel blesses God's children. No matter who you are, where you are from, etc. the gospel of Jesus Christ has a place in your life. Or room needs to be made. I find so much hope in Heavenly Father's love and His Son's Atonement for us.

Love you all. Feel free to e-mail (samantha.cope@myldsmail.net).

Samantha, ahem. Sister COpe

Please email

My e-mail address is samantha.cope@myldsmail.net :)

Almost a month

And I love it here so much. I have recovered from my heat stroke and from the slope on the roller coaster. This week was really busy so we didn't get to teach quite as much, but the lessons we taught were definitely guided by the Holy Ghost.


We had this one lesson where the investigator had already been taught about two years ago. Sister Siufanua and I did not know where to go, but some how she opened up about her concerns and we were able to address them. And there's this one woman we've been teaching who's ready for baptism she just has to get married, and we were trying to teach her asawa (it's their word for spouse, but they also use it for those they live with because marriage is so expensive here), too. But he had some negatively influential friends and did his best to avoid us. Miraculously he has since sat in on two lessons, and he asked us a great question about the Book of Mormon in relation to the Bible, and Sister Siu knew exactly what scriptures to share for the moment (the first paragraph of the introduction and 2 Ne. chapter 33). I know the Lord's hand is in the work that we're doing. He's there with us every step of the way. And! This other really miraculous thing that happened was we were getting ready to go to the temple again for temple ground tours with our investigators, and the security guard at our neighborhood gate asked us about our religion and how can he become a member and if he can come to our church. Sister Siu says people who approach her about how to become a member always end up being baptized at some point. It was really cool. So I shared a brief testimony and gave him some pamphlets.


Tad R. Callister (of the Presidency of the Seventy) came and spoke to us at our mission conference this past week. He talked about becoming a consecrated missionary and I feel so motivated to do better. It's hard to keep going sometimes. The work is very draining, but I know that exact obedience brings miracles, and I just have to keep pressing forward--just like what we tell our investigators. We're asking them to change their lives; we have to be willing to do that, too. So I'm trying.


And the importance of members was reaffirmed just because we've had some awesome members come with us to our lessons and they were able to share experiences and testimony that were exactly what our investigators needed to here. It's so amazing how aware of us the Lord is.


I know that Joseph Smith did see God the Father and His Son and that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has the priesthood, or the power of God to act in Christ's name and bind on earth and in heaven. It's so important in following our Savior. I know that if we put God first, He will take care of us. And He is so patient, and many times He'll take care of us even if we do forget Him because He loves us.


I love you all and I hope things in your part of the world are going splendidly. Please write me :) You can even e-mail. I'm just not allowed to e-mail back... but I will write! So now you don't have postage expense as an excuse... Haha.


Mahal ko kayo!
xxxooo
Sister Cope


Pictures of the week:
1. Me on the back of a jeepney! This is posed, but I actually rode on it that evening on the way home from our mission conference. This one Samoan elder that was also riding on the back was teaching me how to properly holler. Haha... It was fun, but not very reverent so I probably won't be doing it again, but I asked my President if we are allowed so we'll see. But apparently I'm the first Sister who has ever done it... I guess it's not typically a girl thing. I need to be more lady-like apparently :)


2. L-R: S. Segovia (my MTC companion's trainer), S. Siufanua (my trainer, or nanay :), Me, S. DeLaMare (the mission president's wife), and S. Biggs (my MTC companion). I also had the happy occasion of seeing all the Elders that were in my district. We were finding out who has tried balut and who still needs to... Ha.


3. A poorly composed picture of these adorable puppies and their mom. They're owned by a family who lives in the same compound as the DeJesus family (see post from two weeks ago, I think).


4. Temple tour with S. Siu, Mary Ann and her baby Joanna, S. Madelo (an awesome member missionary), and me. We go around the temple grounds, and investigators and recent converts get to learn more about what goes on inside and the sacredness and qualifications, etc. It's happy. Mary Ann's really excited about the temple. (By the way... if I look bigger, it's probably because I am. I try to eat only a satisfying amount, and the members always tell me "Kain pa," eat still. Sobrang rice, pero masarap... with the right ulam.)

May Sakit Ako :(

So I got sick for the first time since being here. The dry season is starting, and without the rain to cool things down, we are burning up. Sister Siufanua and I walked to a farther area of ours and a little while later I felt like I was going to pass out. She says my lips were purple and I looked really pale. It ended up being a nice opportunity to talk to some people, though. We found a shaded sitting spot and I sat down to drink water. This lady offered me a baby wipe and I struck up a conversation. It started out in Tagalog, but her English was pretty good so... She told me about her family, and I told her where I was from and why I was there. I asked her if she'd like to know more about the Church, but apparently she has a position at the Catholic church she attends. I gave her a pamphlet and our information anyway.


Anyway it's so cool how the Lord leads you to people. We ran into several less actives as we looked for the address of a referral. And we were at the tindahan (a little store) by our house and this young man spoke up and said we was a member, but because of his job he hadn't been active for a while. But he said he wants to serve a mission! And Jeffrey R. Holland is in the Philippines this week and he's speaking to those of age for a mission in our stake. So hopefully he can get off work and go.


Now for a soap box moment... Sister Siufanua and I visited a less active member last night, and she really opens up to us because she has no one else to talk to, and it was just really sad. The people here have so many hardships and if people kept their covenants to mourn with those that mourn and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, there wouldn't be as many issues as Sister Siu and I run into everyday. And there's so much offending and people not going to church because of it. Be the member that God expects you to be. Do your home and visiting teaching. I never realized how important it really was until I came out here. And just reach out to everyone. There are people at church who need you and to hear your testimony. So got to church and seek them out. I'm pointing a finger at myself, too. There have been times when I saw someone alone and I was too nervous that I wouldn't have anything to say so I just didn't say anything at all. In Moroni 6 it talks about how church is for the welfare of souls. We need each other to build one another up, otherwise organized religion wouldn't be important. But it is. We support each other in reaching heaven and returning home to Heavenly Father. And if you're not going to church because you've been offended, it's so selfish because there's someone at church who is probably looking for the friend you could be. Don't let others hinder your relationship with God and would-be friends.


Just some things to consider. I know I'm on a mission and it's easy to say this stuff, but it's stuff I've told myself I need to be better about when I return home. I know this Church is true and that we truly do have the restored gospel of Jesus Christ on the earth today. I also know that the members aren't perfect, and we all have stuff to work on, but the truth is here. And we have the real priesthood authority--the power of God to act in Christ's name. I'm so grateful to be a part of sharing these glad tidings.


Mahal ko kayo!
Sister Cope


Pictures of the week: 1. My zone crammed into one jeepney. There's also some Elders hanging on to the back. 2. Sister Siufanua and I at the temple. Sobrang maganda :)

I haven't gotten sick of rice!

This week has been full of little miracles. I love it here and I have already been so blessed.


So last Monday after I sent my e-mail I had an enjoyable P-day with Sister Siufanua and then we spent the evening at the DeJesus family. They are my favorite. They have stolen my hearts. They're less active and they live close so we visit them pretty often. There are 5 kids and they're just all really special to me. We did a family home evening with them; they provided dinner and we provided the lesson--and treats. I gave them sour warheads (They don't have anything like that here), and I warned them that they weren't going to like it at first. The mom spit hers our right away and all the kids made faces, but they ended up enjoying them. It was funny.


Sister Siufanua and I have focused on Church Attendance this week with our investigators. Last week only one came. We told them this weekend was special (because we watch General Conference a week later), and they could hear the prophet speak and know for themselves whether He is a man of God. We managed to acquire a jeepney to the stake center and we got up early the morning of the Sunday sessions and we just went to one neighborhood and made sure one with a baptismal date was coming. We waited 30 minutes for her to get ready, but in the meantime we found 2 more of our investigators and convinced them to come. So that was really happy. We were late for the jeepney so we fit five women and two babies onto one tricycle--and then the driver. (I'll try and take a picture of one this week.) But it was a cozy ride.


Sister DeJesus came with us on Saturday to the first session and we went out to McDonald's afterward. It was my first time. I prefer the Filipino chain Mang Inasal. Mmm... Masarap.


Anyway one of the greatest blessings this week has been Jenny. She's a Sister we found while tracting, and she told us she was busy. We felt prompted to go back a couple days later, and she told us how she wished she would've asked us to return and that she was so glad we did. We have really interactive lessons with her because she has lots of good question, but we always feel the Spirit as we're with her. She already seems to have a really good relationship with her Heavenly Father. We were teaching her about Joseph Smith, and she wondered, "Well if you believe there was a prophet then, do you believe there's someone on the earth with those same powers now?" And answered excitedly, "Yes! And he's speaking to us this weekend!" And she asked if she could bring her husband and friends and we said "Siyempre!" (That's of course in Tagalog.) Sadly, she was not one of the ones who ended up coming, but I know there must be a good reason. She's had many trials in her life, but she remains strong in her faith.


In summary, I don't think I'll ever come back to the United States. I love the Philippines too much. Jokelang. But for real. And I love the opportunity I have to share the gospel with these people that I've come to love so much already.


I know The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is God's Church on earth. I know Joseph Smith saw the Father and the Son. I know we are lead and guided by a living prophet today, President Thomas S. Monson. Go check out conference if you don't believe me. (LDS.org) I know Heavenly Father loves us more than we can comprehend and the way back to Him is through Jesus Christ and His Atonement.


Mahal ko kayo from the bottom of my puso.
Sister Cope


Pictures of the week: 1. Because I know my parents won't believe me unless there is proof: I ate fish right off the bone--and I enjoyed it. I had to pull off the head and everything. Here's my fish kissing another person's fish :)
2. These are the two youngest in the DeJesus family... Gabriel is the one I'm hugging and Eunice is the one with Sister Siufanua. They are so adorable and always so happy to see us. I love them lots and lots.

Really in the Philippines)

(Really in the Philippines)

Pamilya at mga kaibigan,

So I'm finally here. It's so hard, but I'm so happy and blessed to be here. I love the people already. My Tagalog is terrible, but their patient and understanding, and my companion translates for me. I've taught a little bit, and I understand a couple words here and there. Some people we've visited say I'll be fluent in a month. Maybe if I pray and work really hard.

My last days in the MTC were bitter sweet. My teachers shared their stories and we took lots of pictures together. Actually my trainer (what they call your first companion in the field) was trained by my teacher Sister Ball! I've been really enthusiastic about the work and working all the time so Sister Siufanua considers me a mini Sister Ball. S. Siu is from Utah, but she's half Samoan. She is very sweet and we get along great. I love her already.

So back to the MTC... for our last meal in the cafeteria one of the Elders snuck in some Martinelli's sparkling cider and we did a lot of cheers. It was happy. Our last Sunday we sang "Army of Helaman in English and Tagalog, and it was pretty awesome. I'm going to miss my district a lot, but thankfully we all flew together.

The long flights weren't too bad until we were landing in Hong Kong. There was a typhoon passing through and the landing was rough. The pilot had to try twice. And the food was really greasy and kind of gross on the plane and five of the twelve I was traveling with threw up. It smelled horrible and I thought I was going to throw up. I was by the window and Elder Herr, who was one of the five, was on my other side. It was funny because I freaked out more than he did and the guy next to him said to calm down and someone else thought it was me who had thrown up. Haha... From Hong Kong to Manila was just fine, though, so happy day.

So the Philippines... is really rainy. Haha. It's not actually too hot, though. Apparently I started off in a cooler area. It's called Antipolo, and I'm in the San Isadora Branch. They are lovely. There are so many members willing to come with us and help us teach lessons. There is so much poverty everywhere, but the people are humble and happy. There is so much loud music all the time everywhere. I've taken a ride on a jeepney and several on tricycles. I feel pretty legit. Ha. I take cold showers everyday and I've done the hose thing (instead of toilet paper) because I had no choice. My companion is going to make me eat balut before she goes home. (This is her last transfer, i.e. six weeks.) Apparently only then can I call myself a true Filippino.

There are stray (and pregnant) dogs everywhere. It's sad, but I've gotten used to is already. I've eaten chicken leeg (neck), and mostly everything is delicious. I ate halo-halo for the first time today. Sobrang masarap. They have fried chicken all the time and that's okay by me. Bananas are sweeter here and so much better. I don't like Plantains I've realized, but other than that I'm not too worried about food. I'm probably jinxing myself, though.

Anyway. Time is up. I miss you all, but I'm so happy to be here. I know this is the Lord's work. There are so many people here who need the gospel of Jesus Christ and I feel so blessed that I have the privilege of sharing it with them.

Mahal ko kayo from the bottom of my puso.
Sister Cope

P.S. Mail is really slow. I'll only get it every two weeks and that is if it has arrived here. But please write anyway. I need your love and support :)

Pictures: 1. My trainer, Sis. Siufanua and I. 2. My district right before catching our bus to the airport.

I'll figure out a way to put more up later, but the internet cafe is slow.

Last Email/Blog post in America

Today (Friday) is usually my P-day (Preparation day), but I'm in the middle of "In-field orientation" on a dinner break. I will get P-day tomorrow and actually add to and e-mail this to be posted on Saturday. But anyway it's awesome. We just came out of a class on having enough faith and works to be blessed with miracles on our mission. I might've mentioned this a couple e-mails ago, but one time when I was at the bus stop on my way to school I chatted with this other girl who was waiting and found that she served a mission and I will never forget what she told me (because I wrote it down...), but what she said is that "You can expect miracles everyday as long as your prepared." I know that can happen if I have enough faith. I've already seen maraming miracles occur in my two months at the MTC, and with enough faith I know that I can see even more, and even everyday.

So this week I had the privilege and blessing of hearing from yet another apostle! Elder Russell M. Nelson came to the MTC this week. In preparation for his coming we received the October 2011 Ensign (a Church magazine). He spoke about different editions of the Book of Mormon's historical context. It was pretty cool, but what really affected me was not his words, but the words I have been studying in the Ensign. It has strengthened my testimony of the Book of Mormon in just a couple days. It's funny because the most powerful words in the magazine are the words quoted from the scriptures. And just being put in a different light and context has made them powerful and they've stuck out in a new way to me. One such scripture is Alma 46:48. They quote it in the Relief Society message, which I usually find so unapplicable. The context is that the chapter is talking about the faith of the Army of Helaman. The scripture reads "We do not doubt our mothers knew it." I want my investigators to feel that way about me. They will not doubt that I know it. I want to make sure they see the light that the scriptures and the restored gospel of Jesus Christ have brought to me. It's so true and it can solve any problem (spiritual or temporal). I've received many answers through the Book of Mormon. We can not treat it lightly as Doctrine and Covenants 84 mentions (and President Benson reiterated years ago in a talk, which is reprinted in that magazine). It was written for us today and sets a pattern of living to follow by showing good and bad examples. Something that has made my Book of Mormon study more effective is something my teacher told me to do as I read. Ask yourself, "Why did God have this verse written?" When you read with real intent you can find so much and not every principle will apply in your life at that moment, but there is something in each verse that God wanted us to hear or else He wouldn't have had the prophets write it for us.

In other news, I'll get off my soap box (but read the Book of Mormon!:), I translated the song "We'll Bring the World His Truth" in Tagalog this week. Our district is going to sing it in church on Sunday for our departing musical number type thing. It's so powerful. I'm finally feeling the Spirit in Tagalog. It's been kind of hard because I don't understand the language, but my heart understands the Spirit and the power of music, and it's really awesome.

Also, thank you to all of those who have written me in my final week. I have a list of about 13 of you that I am going to do my best to write all of you back tomorrow between packing and laundry. The support is so needed and your words are special to me so thank you. If I don't have time to write all the letters (because the ones to my parents, brother, and grandpa come first), just know that I love you.

I'm so excited to be serving my Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, and to be sharing this message of hope to His children. I know it is true and I know that knowledge of this message brings peace to our souls.

I love you all, and next time I'll be writing from the Philippines!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pinoy ako!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (I'm Filipino!!!!!!!!!)

Mahal kita,
Sister Cope

11 Days!!!!!!!

I technically only have 5 minutes for my letter today because I've been e-mailing my mom and brother, but I love you all, too, so I will try to say as much as I can as quickly as possible.

So first off, I had the privelege of hearing another apostle this past week!!! Elder M. Russell Ballard came and he is just so humble. He said it was such a privelege for him to come speak to us, and I just thought, "Wow." And later he brought up the privelege we have to serve and teach. And it made me think back to the scripture about the greatest being the least, and how Jesus served and sacrificed and descended below all things, even though He is the Son of God! And in considering my privilege to serve God's children in the Philippines I am so humbled by the huge responsibility. The salvation of those I teach is being placed in my hands. I know that one day all things will work out, but Heavenly Father has called me for there and now. He also told us of an experience on his mission where he really messed up and that night he prayed for forgiveness for not being more prepared, and then he acted! And he got up earlier and studied harder, and I just want to be that dedicated and so much better in the gospel, and really act on the things I pray for. It was very inspiring.

With the 10th anniversary of September 11th, we had a special fireside where we were able to watch the Mormon Tabernacle Choir's special performance with the spoken word portion done by Tom Brokaw. (I think that's how you spell it.) The MTC mission president was comparing the terrorists to the Gadianton Robbers in the Book of Mormon, and it really is so telling of our times. In 2001 the country drew so much closer to God, and in just 10 years so many people have forgotten and grown distant. And it's so sad that bad things must happen in order for us to reach out to Him. I know I am guilty of this. When I was younger I would only really pray when I need help. But how much more blessed are we when we remember Him during our good times and show our gratitude.

Speaking of earnest prayer, see Enos chapter 1. Sister Biggs shared this scripture with me when we were practicing our teaching and it helped me a lot. Just to remember how my prayers ought to be.

And speaking of the Book of Mormon, we were doing a class study/discussion earlier this week and we were being kind of quiet, and I loved what my teacher Sister Ball said, "Why did God have this verse written for us?" There is something in every verse for each of us. Sometimes different things are more applicable, but if you dig deep enough and are willing to take the time to ponder you will find what God is trying to tell you.

I have more stories to tell, but not enough time. My district received our flight plans yesterday!! I fly out on the evening of the 27th with a layover in LAX and then in Hong Kong!!! So cool, di ba? (Tagalog for, "no?" like how we say "right?") And I arrive in the Philippines on the 29th!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Anyway. Mail has been a little funky because they moved the post office to a different building so I've gotten some stuff late, but it should all be getting to me in due time. I'll be writing back to those of you I've heard from later today so no worries.

And remember, start using my Philippines address soon because I don't know how long it'll take to forward my mail from here to there so just start now, and by the time it get's there, I'll be in the Philippines :)


Mahal ko kayo,
Samantha

18 Days !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I cannot believe how fast time goes and continues going. And how much I keep learning every week. God is blessing me so much through people and experiences.

This week I had the privilege of witnessing the power of the priesthood and fasting. One of the Sisters that's in my room was really sick, and she went to the ER, and they didn't really tell her anything or help her. When we returned from class (this was on a Monday) we found out about all this and Sister Biggs and I asked if she had received a blessing, and she hadn't. So the Elders received special permission to come into the sisters' dormitory and gave her a blessing. And the Spirit was there, and I just know with all my heart that the authority of God is on the earth again. And shortly after the blessing she improved drastically and was able to fall asleep that night. The next day the whole zone faster for her and by Wednesday the Sister and her companions were able to return to class, and by Thursday she was back to full health. I really did witness a miracle and I know that blessings and fasting work.

We had mission conference on Sunday and, my bad, but I fell asleep throughout most of it, but when the MTC President spoke I was much more awake and he talked about obedience bringing blessings, and spoke of the promise contained in D&C 84:88, and it's such a beautiful promise. And it was reiterated during our Sunday night fireside with Brother Richard Heaton (an MTC administrator). His talks are always good. This is the second time we've heard from him and he told us how we can't worry about what we're doing to the point where we become distracted. We must focus on helping investigators develop a relationship with God, and making sure the Holy Ghost is witnessing to them. I also bore my testimony on Sunday in sacrament meeting, and I was able to use some of my Tagalog and it was pretty exciting :)

I have a new teacher, again. I don't know if I told about the last one, but with school starting all their schedule's change. One of them remained (Brother Cook), but Sister Landrum was replaced with Sister Ball. We love her. She is so real, and gives us the best advice because it's so straight up. She tells us how it is in teaching and in the Philippines, and it's nice because she actually served in Quezon City so it's way relatable. (She returned in April.) And she always teaches with such enthusiasm and power, and I'm just so excited to finally get there. She also told us some scary stories, but no worries. The Lord will protect us. Brother Cook is a great teacher, too. We love messing with him during class. Like the other day, for some reason, two of the Elders had extra ties so I put one on, and throughout the evening we were switching ties. He caught on pretty fast because it was odd to him that I was wearing a tie. Haha.. Speaking of Brother Cook, he says my laugh scares him so one of the Elders suggested that's why he doesn't try to do funny things, but I always seem to end up laughing anyway...

My time is running out, but just some things I've learned this week in my studies and in class: First, the word of God is powerful. It has the power to change your life if you will let it. (See Helaman 6 and Alma 31:5) Second, quit worrying about whether it's the Holy Ghost or your own thoughts. If it's good it's from God. We watched a clip from a talk given by Elder Bednar where we he said that and he mentioned the 20 Mark Note story (see Boyd K. Packer's talk on my LDS.org). It was powerful and then Sister Ball had us read from D&C 50:21-24. And I'd like to add to that Moroni 10:5-7. If you're having trouble recognizing the Spirit, consider these things. Oh! And I read this amazing talk by Gordon B. Hinckley this week called "I Am Clean," and it has this really cool story about a dream Joseph F. Smith had as a missionary in Hawaii at only 15 years of age!!! I can't even imagine.

Elder Jensen of the Quorum of the Seventy spoke to us at Tuesday's devotional, and as always my companion and I participated in the choir. Elder Jensen actually mentioned the power of music, and I testify that music can bring the Spirit and can soften hearts and bear testimony to the soul (because it has to me). We sang this beautiful number called "I Marvel at the Miracle." I would type out the lyrics, but there is no time.

In close, I just want to say that I know Christ is my Savior and He's your Savior and He loves us. And Heavenly Father loves us, too.

I love you all. And I miss you, but I'll see you in 16.5 months so it's okay :)

Mahal ko kayo,
Sister Cope

P.S. Don't forget, if you're writing me, you'll want to start using my Philippines address in 2 weeks. Thanks <3

Awareness and Mga bata :)

Hello dear loved ones,

To start off, a funny story from teaching one of our investigators... Sister Biggs and I were teaching him about church attendance, and Sister Biggs tried to explain best dress (pinakamabuti bata, or so we thought). It turns out that depending on pronunciation it can mean clothes or children. So Sister Biggs had been telling our investigator to bring his best children. Bahahaha...

Anyway, silliness aside, I've learned so much this week. There are spiritual experiences I've had that I don't want to post all over the internet, but I want to bear testimony that God is aware of each of us. Sobrang aware. He's aware of you, and He is aware of me.

Jeffrey R. Holland came and spoke to us at the MTC this week!!! Not everyone has the opportunity to hear an apostle while they're hear, and I feel so so blessed. As soon as he walked in the room I felt the Spirit, and I know that he truly is a man of God. He covered an array of things, but there were some bits very specific to missionaries. He made sure we knew how responsible we are as representatives of Jesus Christ bringing the gospel to Heavenly Father's children. A lot of people think missionaries are perfect, he said, while it's not true, we don't have the right to make them think otherwise. People die for the cause of the Church, and we are responsible for doing our very best and to never fall away. He then answered some questions that had been gathered early. The first was the one that really spoke to me. "What is the most important thing that Christ wants us to know right now? That He told the truth, that everything He said was true." I've been praying to have a greater testimony of Jesus Christ and my prayers were answered and previous knowledge from personal study was confirmed by the Holy Ghost. I know that Jesus Christ did what He says He did. He is the Son of God and He died for our sins so that we might be worthy to return to our Heavenly Father. And He lives again.

At the devotional with Elder Holland, I participated in the choir again and we sang this beautiful song called "Faith of Our Fathers." Look it up. It's fabulous. And powerful. So was the special musical number that was performed at the end. It was announced as a duet and it was so cool because there was one sister singing and another was signing the words. The song is called "Savior, Reedemer of my Soul" and it is absolutely gorgeous.

Another things that confirmed God's awareness of His children was the sacred opportunity I had to receive revelation on what to teach. It's never been so clear before. Sister Biggs and I were in the TRC teaching a volunteer and as we shared a scripture I realized what she needed to hear and what we were supposed to emphasize. The Spirit was there and testified of this again at the end as my companion bore her testimony. Like I mentioned last week, God keeps His promises. It's just as that one scripture says that the Holy Ghost will give us the words in the very hour we need them, or something along those lines.

I had an additional testimony building experience as I was studying in 1st John 3 during personal study time. There were some things that didn't quite fit what I knew about God's love in relation to when we sin. I went on to the next chapter, but felt that I should go back and look at the footnotes. And lo and behold, there were Joseph Smith Translations that added such clarity and confirmed what I knew to be true.

This Church is so true and I know it with all my heart. The scriptures are the word of God. And, according to worthiness, God does speak to us through the Holy Ghost and we can feel His love. Maraming mahal.

Mahal ko kayo. Please write me if you have time.

Love,
Sister Copé

P.S. If you're having a rough time check these scriptures out. They helped me and I think they can give comfort to those looking for it: John 16:33, D&C 68:6, and D&C 6: 33-34,36.
<3

A Month?! What?!

Yeah... so tomorrow it will have been a month that I've been here. Time goes so fast.Craziness. Anyway...

Mabuti po ang buhay. (Life is good.) I learn and grow so much every week. This week I learned a lot about patience. Haha... And love. It's always all about love. That's why I'm doing what I'm doing. That's why God sent His Son. That's why the world would be better off if there was more of it. That's why my teachers are so great, even (and especially) this one substitute I had last Saturday. He could tell I was struggling and just took me aside and talked to me, and he gave me some great advice that I've already begun to implement.

Speaking of teachers, I'm getting a new one. Sister Landrum is starting school on Monday and her schedule has been changed so Brother Lakanienta will be taking her place. He was just hired at the MTC and has been sitting in on our classes. I think he'll be great. Our second teacher, Brother Cook, is still the same.

So I was still not in the best mood when Sunday came around even though I had a great talk with the one teacher and had been praying a lot, but throughout the day my heart just got softer and softer, and by the end of the day I was sobrang masaya (so happy). Relief Society was great we heard from Sister Eubank of the RS General Board and she talked about the Plan of Salvation, but defined it as love, choice, work, and infinite patience (on the Savior's part). I really liked her perspective. And she shared one of my favorite scriptures--Romans 8:37-39. She also had us ponder if we could sum up our testimonies for our posterity in a couple lines what would we say. She shared some of the things from the women in the scriptures like Eve, the wife of Lamoni, Martha, and Ruth. I would definitely include something about God's love if I only had a sentence or two. Exactly what I would say, hindi ko alam (I don't know). The musical number for the fireside talk that night was by this Elder who sung "This is the Christ." It was beautiful and powerful. And at night we watched "Legacy." We LOVE watching the Church films on Sunday nights. It's funny how we get into them. We're watching with hundreds of other missionaries and when there is any bit of a love story we're all cheering and stuff. It's pretty ridiculous and hilarious.

Tuesday was amazing because for our devotional that evening we performed this song called "Precious Savior, Dear Redeemer" about curbing the winds and calming the billows from the story at the end of Mark 4. It's a beautiful song and the Spirit was there as we sang it. Elder Zivic of the seventy and his wife spoke, and one thing that was touched upon was prayer and I was reminded that I need to act on promptings immediately. Even if they're not directly from the Holy Ghost, they're never bad things, and what's wrong with doing more good? Sorry I know this might not make much sense to all my friends who are not Mormon, but I can always explain more in personal letters.

I continue having great personal study and really being lead by the Spirit as to what I should study. Most recently, I was reading in the Book of Mormon (sa Tagalog and in English) about Nephi wanting to know for himself about the visions his father had seen and there was a great verse in 1st Nephi chapter 10 about coming unto Christ and it helped me come to terms with working through Christ to get to my Heavenly Father. It was an added witness to that idea. I also read this fabulous talk by Jeffrey R. Holland called "An High Priest of Good things to come" recommended by one of the Elders in my district. It addresses issues that many people go through, but that there is a light at the end of the tunnel, which light is Christ, and it's such a beautiful message of hope. And then Sister Biggs was sharing with me about some scriptures she had been reading and made the point that we limit the blessings we receive with our faithlessness and lack of creativity. If we ask for great things, according to the will of God, He will answer our prayers and keep His promises. I know this with all my heart and mind.

The things we study always seem to help us meet the needs of the people we teach. It was the same this week. In the TRC, we taught about having faith enough to see and expect miracles to the first volunteer. (See Ether 12:12) To the second, we shared experiences and testimony of Heavenly Father helping us through hard times. There's this great scripture in Romans 4:18-25 about hoping and trusting in God. It's about Abraham in particular, but it applies to everyone.

We had a funny experience in class yesterday evening learning about the abilitative version of fall (makahulog - to be able to fall). And the joke won't really make sense, but Sister Biggs asked if there could be an actor in the sentence: Nakahulog po nila Adan at Eva. (Adam and Eve fell. Adam and Eve being the object.) She wanted to insert 'si Satanas,' but it would mean that Satan dropped Adam and Eve. Sobrang funny, and kind of a Tagalog inside joke, but I wanted to share it anyway. Sister Biggs and I couldn't stop laughing and the Elders and Brother Cook just stared at us because they didn't find it nearly as funny as we did. And the other girls in the other district mentioned to me that they heard me laughing. Seguro (of course). Haha...

Anyway. I'm very happy. I know God loves each and everyone of you. I pray for you.

Mahal ko kayo. (I love you all instead of I love you, which is what I've been saying...)

Sister Copé

Bittersweet

Dear Friends and Family,

The four sisters that my companion and I roomed with have left. They're now in the Philippines! We´ll be joining them in 6 weeks. I'm sobrang excited. I can't believe I only knew them for three weeks. Thankfully, all four of them are also serving in Quezon City so there's a good chance I'll run into them down the road. We have four new sisters already. Three of them are international (New Zealand, Tonga, and Kitabira, which I guess is a tiny, tiny island by Fiji. I'm not sure if I spelled it right.) The other is from Utah.

This week has been amazing as usual. Nothing too out of the ordinary except a funny joke the Elders played on Sister Biggs and I. It would take time to explain, but just know that I laughed a lot and our teacher came into the restroom and told me I was being really loud. Hahaha... I gave a talk on Sunday by the way! We have to prepare talks every Sunday that can only be five minutes (literally), and you don't find out if you're actually chosen to speak until right before you do. I had a pretty good idea, though, that I would be for some reason. (i.e., the Holy Ghost :) I focused on hope as part of enduring to the end. Afterward and Elder told me "I liked your talk" in Tagalog, and I understood him. Always a good thing. The district that was leaving sang "I know my Redeemer lives" switching back and forth between English and Tagalog. It was beautiful and they really communicated by the power of the Spirit.

Our Tuesday night devotional by a member of the Seventy (David F. Evans)seemed like it was just for me. So I've always kind of struggled with the idea of how much we glorify the Savior. I'm so grateful for His sacrifice and all He's done and I know it is through Him that we can return to be with our Heavenly Father, but sometimes I think God gets shafted. And that's exactly what this devotional was about. Some of the general authorities, including members of the Twelve apostles, felt like people were forgetting the Father's place in relation to the Son. It is the Father's will that the Son carried out. It is Heavenly Father's gospel that He gave to us through Jesus Christ. It was just really comforting to know that Church leaders were having the same concern I had, and it was a really great talk. My favorite, I think, since I've been here. And the speakers wife bore her testimony right before, too, and reminded us that God keeps His promises to us, and I know this is true because I've seen it in my life, especially as of late. I've been guided on what to study for myself and for my investigators by the Spirit and I'm learning so much. And speaking of investigators, we invited one of them to be baptized! It was intense and it felt right. The investigator isn't ready yet, but we'll help him prepare. For those of you who aren't familiar with the MTC and how we learn, a lot of it is done by roleplaying. Our teachers play investigators that they taught in the field so that we can practice teaching by the Spirit and according to needs, and, of course, try and get a handle on the language. I'm realizing how much I've learned as I teach because I can piece together most of what I need and want to say. It's amazing the help God gives.

And TRC was a great experience once again. One of the volunteers who came in to be taught was just really closed up and I think we helped soften her heart by the end. I felt the power of the Holy Ghost there so I hope she did as well. I shared verses 6 and 4 from Ether 12 and a personal experience, and my companion shared a very heartfelt testimony. I can't even remember everything that happened, but I know that we spoke about God's purpose in giving us trials and how He will help us through them, and we'll be blessed for pressing forward with faith.

Masaya po ako. (I am happy.) And I know I'm doing the Lord's work. My time is up, but just know that I love you all. I pray for you, and I miss you. Please feel free to write. I will write back :)

Mahal kita,
Sister Copé