Inochi no Michi, December 2012

Oh the excitement!  What a thrill!  It is Shogatsu time.   I’m sure you all know that in Japan, that means:  TIME TO CLEAN HOUSE, top to bottom, better than ever, not missing a thing!  Perfection is the word of the month (or 3 P-days, or one—however long it takes.)

So, do you remember when you received the lovely laminated card with your cleaning schedule?  It is called “January – Major Deep Cleaning Month.”  It is golden.  Dig it out of your backpack, where it’s been since we gave it to you.  Or go looking underneath the dust.  It has to be there somewhere. (Call if you really can’t find it—it is essential.)  The time has come! 

Get to work and do the best job of cleaning you have ever done.  Use soap and water.  If there is something greasy, use baking soda.  If it is in the bathroom or a sink, use the green cleaner.  And especially, use elbow grease.  (For you Japanese speakers, that means “muscle power.”)

Clean top to bottom, starting high and moving down.  Light fixtures, ceilings and walls, heaters, stove top (be sure to read details on that laminated sheet), inside and outside of fridge, all small appliances, chairs, table, desks, kitchen sink and drain, doors and handles, cabinets and shelves (inside and out),  organize as you replace items and throw away old stuff, clean fans and dust edges and tops of things, clean out and organize bedroom closets, air out futons, wash all bedding,  clean out the shower and drains and under the tub  (you should be able to remove a panel from the bottom on the front of the tub), washer and dryer all over, windows, mirrors, curtains, and finally, vacuum or mop all floors everywhere, including under desks and other moveable furniture. Read directions from the cleaning sheet and if you have questions, call Sister Barney. 

Does it sound overwhelming?  Well, it’s really not.  Just start. Work together.  You’ll be surprised how quickly you can get it all cleaned.  And it will smell, look, and feel fresh and wonderful.  (You might want to do it more often.) 

And when you are finished, turn over the cleaning card.  There you will find the way to keep your apartment clean for the rest of the year.  You will be so energized and happy with your clean apartment you’ll want to go out and 20X.  Happy Cleaning.  Don’t bother to thank me…I know you are eternally grateful. 

Love, Sister Barney

  

Mission Conference 2012

A mission conference is a rare and beautiful thing.  It requires special permission, and should never be viewed as something ordinary.  The November 2012 mission conference for the Japan Nagoya Mission was a spiritual feast, and for many missionaries, a life-changing experience as we made commitments to study and use the Church's Addiction Recovery Program.  As President Baird taught us, there is no one who cannot benefit from improving their lives by using this program.  We will allow your missionary to share his or her own experience with this, but here we all are together, in anticipation of the feast.

And A Little Child Shall Lead Them, Story1

In 1998, Elder Henry B. Eyring came to Japan.  He spoke at the Japan Missionary Training Center.  Here is a part of what he said:

“I testify that in Japan, the Lord will dramatically establish the church and provide guidance for its expansion. For many months and years, it appears that things are stalled in the same situation. But in reality, the Lord is laying the foundation. And upon this foundation, miracles will occur. These miracles will happen in the form of great changes occurring in the hearts of members of the Church in Japan. This has just now started to happen although it may not be easy to see. The day will come when members of the Church will consider it a privilege to speak to colleagues at work and people in their neighborhoods about the Church.

”Your children will live in a Japan which is very different from the Japan you see now. This is because the Church will begin to achieve a marvelous expansion. It will obtain a prominent place and people will want to know about it. They will be interested and come. Your children will grow up not feeling embarrassed to testify of Jesus Christ in their schools and in their regional societies. They will tell their friends they go to school with and even their teachers that they are Latter-day Saints. They will have no fear.   Not everyone will join the Church, but many will become members.

“You are only seeing the beginning. You wonderful missionaries here will only see a portion of the miracles. Those in the next generation will be the ones who will really see them. But it will begin now. This will be realized because the Lord will change the message of the Church from what it has been in Japan. The day will come when members of the Church in Japan will rejoice in their Church membership and will gladly urge people to learn the gospel from the missionaries.

“But even if the Lord changes the hearts of those outside the Church so they hold feelings of respect for the Church, unless (Church members) decide they want to introduce their friends to the missionaries and their actions show the gospel is true so the people around them will turn their ears to the teachings of the Lord, the work of the Lord will be retarded in its progress.”

In this blog, we would like to focus on the second paragraph of this great prophecy.  "Your children will grow up not feeling embarrassed to testify of Jesus Christ in their schools and in their regional societies.  They will tell their friends they go to school with and even their teachers that they are latter-day Saints.  They will have no fear."  

If we give the missionaries who were listening to Elder Eyring time to serve their missions, come home and get married, and start having children,  those children would now be about 10 years old and younger.  We would like to introduce you to one of the children in the Japan Nagoya Mission who fulfilling that prophecy:

Future Missionary

Ryo Esaki, 10, Fukutoku Ward, Nagoya Stake

Ten-year-old Ryo Esaki has only been a member of the church since Christmas-time, but he knows he is going on a mission.  In fact, he is already preparing to be a missionary now!  He is preparing by coming to church, participating in Primary, reading his scriptures, and praying.  But most importantly, he is preparing to be a missionary in the future by being a missionary now.  Although Ryo is still a new member, he shared his testimony with his friend Shoki Isogimi, who loved the gospel and was baptized.  

It all started when Ryo was introduced to the missionaries by his friends, the Hall family.  The Hall family planned to have a special Family Home Evening with the missionaries and Ryo.  He started learning about the gospel and wanted to be baptized, but his parents were hesitant.  Fortunately, the missionaries, the Hall family, and Ryo planned, prayed, and met with Ryo’s parents.  They supported Ryo’s decision to be baptized and even came to the Fukutoku Ward Christmas party, where they made many friends. 

A few weeks after Ryo was baptized, Shogi Isogimi moved nearby. 

From left, Sister Eguchi, Shoki, and Sister Inoue

 Ryo and Shoki quickly became friends, and Ryo told Shoki all about Church, Primary, and his baptism experience.  A few days later, the sister missionaries were visiting a nearby home when they saw Ryo and Shoki playing on the playground.  Ryo ran up to the Sisters and explained, “I have a friend who wants to join the church.  What do I do?”  At first, the sisters thought Ryo was only joking.  But after talking with Shoki, the Sisters were excited to start teaching him.  They knew that they should get permission from his mother, so they went with Shoki to talk to his mother.  She told the Sisters that she feels like it is good for her son to belong to this church and learn about God.  With his mother’s permission, Shoki began to learn quickly about the gospel.  He soon came to church with his friend Ryo.  After church ended, Shoki told the missionaries, “I am so glad to know that God does so many good things for us.  That makes me so happy!”

Four weeks later, Shoki Isogimi was baptized.  Although he is still young, Shoki knows that he made a promise to God to come to church every week and to learn more about Him.  Ryo and Shoki are still great friends.  They come to church together, sit by each other in Primary, and are preparing together to be missionaries in the future.

And A Little Child Shall Lead Them, Story 2

In 1998, Elder Henry B. Eyring came to Japan.  He spoke at the Japan Missionary Training Center.  Here is a part of what he said:

“I testify that in Japan, the Lord will dramatically establish the church and provide guidance for its expansion. For many months and years, it appears that things are stalled in the same situation. But in reality, the Lord is laying the foundation. And upon this foundation, miracles will occur. These miracles will happen in the form of great changes occurring in the hearts of members of the Church in Japan. This has just now started to happen although it may not be easy to see. The day will come when members of the Church will consider it a privilege to speak to colleagues at work and people in their neighborhoods about the Church.

”Your children will live in a Japan which is very different from the Japan you see now. This is because the Church will begin to achieve a marvelous expansion. It will obtain a prominent place and people will want to know about it. They will be interested and come. Your children will grow up not feeling embarrassed to testify of Jesus Christ in their schools and in their regional societies. They will tell their friends they go to school with and even their teachers that they are Latter-day Saints. They will have no fear.   Not everyone will join the Church, but many will become members.

“You are only seeing the beginning. You wonderful missionaries here will only see a portion of the miracles. Those in the next generation will be the ones who will really see them. But it will begin now. This will be realized because the Lord will change the message of the Church from what it has been in Japan. The day will come when members of the Church in Japan will rejoice in their Church membership and will gladly urge people to learn the gospel from the missionaries.

“But even if the Lord changes the hearts of those outside the Church so they hold feelings of respect for the Church, unless (Church members) decide they want to introduce their friends to the missionaries and their actions show the gospel is true so the people around them will turn their ears to the teachings of the Lord, the work of the Lord will be retarded in its progress.”

In this blog, we would like to focus on the second paragraph of this great prophecy.  "Your children will grow up not feeling embarrassed to testify of Jesus Christ in their schools and in their regional societies.  They will tell their friends they go to school with and even their teachers that they are latter-day Saints.  They will have no fear."  

If we give the missionaries who were listening to Elder Eyring time to serve their missions, come home and get married, and start having children,  those children would now be about 10 years old and younger.  We would like to introduce you to one of the children in the Japan Nagoya Mission who is fulfilling that prophecy:

Shoko Ishikawa, Kariya Ward, Nagoya East Stake

Shoko Ishikawa loves stories in the Book of Mormon.  She loves to read the stories of great heroes like Ammon and Nephi, as well as the spiritual experiences of prophets like Enos and Lehi.  Growing up, Shoko often talked about these stories with her family.  But her friends at school were unfamiliar with the stories Shoko loved so much.  Shoko, an outgoing girl, decided to share the Book of Mormon with her friend.  Her parents were surprised at her boldness, but Shoko showed no hesitation as she shared her testimony of the Book of Mormon and prayer with her friend Runa Fujitani.  Runa felt a special feeling when Shoko talked to her about the Book of Mormon.  The next Sunday, she brought her Dad to Shoko’s church.  When church ended, they walked home with two copies of the Book of Mormon, one for Runa and another for her little sister Rimi.  Once Runa started reading the Book of Mormon, she could not stop!  She took it to school with her everyday so she could read during her free time. 

Her friends Daisuke and Kai, also nonmembers, previously attended the church Halloween party and received copies of the Book of Mormon.  When they saw Runa reading the Book of Mormon at school, they started talking about this wonderful book and what was written inside.   Soon, even their teacher joined in the discussion!  Runa, Rimi, Daisuke, and Kai started coming to English class to learn from the Book of Mormon in English.  Kai even brought his cousin, Chugo, who now joins in their discussions about the Book of Mormon.  Shoko felt so good sharing the Book of Mormon with her friends.  She decided to keep sharing the Book of Mormon and invited her friend Akatsuki to church and English class.

These days, Shoko and her friends take their copies of the Book of Mormon to school and openly talk about what they read and their belief in Jesus Christ.  Because of Shoko’s courage and example, her friends are coming to English class and meeting separately with the missionaries to discuss the Book of Mormon.  On top of that, Akatsuki’s mother and Runa’s father are also meeting with the missionaries and learning about Shoko’s favorite book, the Book of Mormon.

And A Little Child Shall Lead Them, Story 3

In 1998, Elder Henry B. Eyring came to Japan.  He spoke at the Japan Missionary Training Center.  Here is a part of what he said:

“I testify that in Japan, the Lord will dramatically establish the church and provide guidance for its expansion. For many months and years, it appears that things are stalled in the same situation. But in reality, the Lord is laying the foundation. And upon this foundation, miracles will occur. These miracles will happen in the form of great changes occurring in the hearts of members of the Church in Japan. This has just now started to happen although it may not be easy to see. The day will come when members of the Church will consider it a privilege to speak to colleagues at work and people in their neighborhoods about the Church.

”Your children will live in a Japan which is very different from the Japan you see now. This is because the Church will begin to achieve a marvelous expansion. It will obtain a prominent place and people will want to know about it. They will be interested and come. Your children will grow up not feeling embarrassed to testify of Jesus Christ in their schools and in their regional societies. They will tell their friends they go to school with and even their teachers that they are Latter-day Saints. They will have no fear.   Not everyone will join the Church, but many will become members.

“You are only seeing the beginning. You wonderful missionaries here will only see a portion of the miracles. Those in the next generation will be the ones who will really see them. But it will begin now. This will be realized because the Lord will change the message of the Church from what it has been in Japan. The day will come when members of the Church in Japan will rejoice in their Church membership and will gladly urge people to learn the gospel from the missionaries.

“But even if the Lord changes the hearts of those outside the Church so they hold feelings of respect for the Church, unless (Church members) decide they want to introduce their friends to the missionaries and their actions show the gospel is true so the people around them will turn their ears to the teachings of the Lord, the work of the Lord will be retarded in its progress.”

In this blog, we would like to focus on the second paragraph of this great prophecy.  "Your children will grow up not feeling embarrassed to testify of Jesus Christ in their schools and in their regional societies.  They will tell their friends they go to school with and even their teachers that they are latter-day Saints.  They will have no fear."  

If we give the missionaries who were listening to Elder Eyring time to serve their missions, come home and get married, and start having children,  those children would now be about 10 years old and younger.  We would like to introduce you to one of the children in the Japan Nagoya Mission who is fulfilling that prophecy:

Setting the Example

Rento is front and center, in yellow with his family.
Elder Hollister on left, and Elder Ikeda on right.

Rento Enami, 8, Kasugai Ward, Nagoya East Stake

Rento loves Family Home Evening.  As the oldest of three children, eight-year-old Rento sets a good example by singing songs, saying prayers, and even helping with the lessons.  One day at school, Rento wrote about his experiences with Family Home Evening.  His teacher was very curious.  She asked Rento about Family Home Evening, so he taught his teacher all about the prophets’ instructions to have Family Home Evening every week.  He even invited her to attend a Family Home Evening sometime, but unfortunately, she could not attend.  But Rento was not discouraged!  When the missionaries taught Rento’s family about inviting friends to activities, Rento followed their instruction.  He invited many friends and his teacher to the ward Christmas party.  They had a fun time at the Christmas party, but Rento was still not done.  Rento learned all about the Book of Mormon at church, so he decided to be like the missionaries in his ward and share the Book of Mormon.  He gave a copy of the Book of Mormon to not only his friends at school, but also his teacher!  He continues to share his testimony with them every day by setting a wonderful example at school. 

Someday, Rento would like to serve a mission, so he is practicing sharing the gospel now.  Through these experiences, Rento has learned that it is easy and fun to share the gospel with friends and even teachers.

And A Little Child Shall Lead Them, Story 4

In 1998, Elder Henry B. Eyring came to Japan.  He spoke at the Japan Missionary Training Center.  Here is a part of what he said:

“I testify that in Japan, the Lord will dramatically establish the church and provide guidance for its expansion. For many months and years, it appears that things are stalled in the same situation. But in reality, the Lord is laying the foundation. And upon this foundation, miracles will occur. These miracles will happen in the form of great changes occurring in the hearts of members of the Church in Japan. This has just now started to happen although it may not be easy to see. The day will come when members of the Church will consider it a privilege to speak to colleagues at work and people in their neighborhoods about the Church.

”Your children will live in a Japan which is very different from the Japan you see now. This is because the Church will begin to achieve a marvelous expansion. It will obtain a prominent place and people will want to know about it. They will be interested and come. Your children will grow up not feeling embarrassed to testify of Jesus Christ in their schools and in their regional societies. They will tell their friends they go to school with and even their teachers that they are Latter-day Saints. They will have no fear.   Not everyone will join the Church, but many will become members.

“You are only seeing the beginning. You wonderful missionaries here will only see a portion of the miracles. Those in the next generation will be the ones who will really see them. But it will begin now. This will be realized because the Lord will change the message of the Church from what it has been in Japan. The day will come when members of the Church in Japan will rejoice in their Church membership and will gladly urge people to learn the gospel from the missionaries.

“But even if the Lord changes the hearts of those outside the Church so they hold feelings of respect for the Church, unless (Church members) decide they want to introduce their friends to the missionaries and their actions show the gospel is true so the people around them will turn their ears to the teachings of the Lord, the work of the Lord will be retarded in its progress.”

In this blog, we would like to focus on the second paragraph of this great prophecy.  "Your children will grow up not feeling embarrassed to testify of Jesus Christ in their schools and in their regional societies.  They will tell their friends they go to school with and even their teachers that they are latter-day Saints.  They will have no fear."  

If we give the missionaries who were listening to Elder Eyring time to serve their missions, come home and get married, and start having children,  those children would now be about 10 years old and younger.  We would like to introduce you to one of the children in the Japan Nagoya Mission who is fulfilling that prophecy:

I Hope They Call Me on a Mission

Ai Shibata, 11, Meito Ward, Nagoya East Stake

Eleven-year-old Ai Shibata has a dream.  Some day, she would like to follow in the footsteps of her two parents and serve a mission, telling people about the teachings of Jesus that she loves.   The oldest of four kids, Ai is setting a great example for her younger siblings in many ways, especially missionary work. 

One day, before the missionaries came over to talk about sharing the gospel, Ai led her brothers and sisters in prayer, asking Heavenly Father to help them be prepared.  When the missionaries came over, Ai and her siblings made a list of their friends and talked about various ways they could introduce the gospel to their friends.  Ai and her siblings decided to perform a play for the missionaries and President and Sister Baird (the local mission president) so that her friends could meet the missionaries and learn more about the church.  Ai and her friends had so much fun preparing for their play, and they performed wonderfully!  The play was a huge success, and because of Ai’s wonderful plan that she made with the missionaries, her friends and their parents were able to come to President and Sister Baird’s house to have Family Home Evening together and learn more about the gospel.

One day, while Ai was sleeping, she dreamed about sharing the gospel with her best friend Kaoru.   Soon after, Ai gave Kaoru a Book of Mormon, sharing the wonderful joy of the restored gospel.  Kaoru read all the way to 2 Nephi!  Ai was so happy to share something she loved with her best friend.

Of course, Ai is not so brave with everyone.  As she went to school every day, Ai wanted to share the happiness of the gospel with her teacher.  At first she was scared.   It would be very bold to approach her teacher about religion!  But Ai had faith that God would help her.  She asked her father for a priesthood blessing to have the courage to share the gospel with her teacher.  Ai felt strengthened.  That night, just after family prayer, the Spirit told Ai that she could be brave.  She put a copy of the Book of Mormon in her backpack, ready to share the joy of this gospel with one more of Heavenly Father’s children.

And A Little Child Shall Lead Them, Story 5

In 1998, Elder Henry B. Eyring came to Japan.  He spoke at the Japan Missionary Training Center.  Here is a part of what he said:

“I testify that in Japan, the Lord will dramatically establish the church and provide guidance for its expansion. For many months and years, it appears that things are stalled in the same situation. But in reality, the Lord is laying the foundation. And upon this foundation, miracles will occur. These miracles will happen in the form of great changes occurring in the hearts of members of the Church in Japan. This has just now started to happen although it may not be easy to see. The day will come when members of the Church will consider it a privilege to speak to colleagues at work and people in their neighborhoods about the Church.

”Your children will live in a Japan which is very different from the Japan you see now. This is because the Church will begin to achieve a marvelous expansion. It will obtain a prominent place and people will want to know about it. They will be interested and come. Your children will grow up not feeling embarrassed to testify of Jesus Christ in their schools and in their regional societies. They will tell their friends they go to school with and even their teachers that they are Latter-day Saints. They will have no fear.   Not everyone will join the Church, but many will become members.

“You are only seeing the beginning. You wonderful missionaries here will only see a portion of the miracles. Those in the next generation will be the ones who will really see them. But it will begin now. This will be realized because the Lord will change the message of the Church from what it has been in Japan. The day will come when members of the Church in Japan will rejoice in their Church membership and will gladly urge people to learn the gospel from the missionaries.

“But even if the Lord changes the hearts of those outside the Church so they hold feelings of respect for the Church, unless (Church members) decide they want to introduce their friends to the missionaries and their actions show the gospel is true so the people around them will turn their ears to the teachings of the Lord, the work of the Lord will be retarded in its progress.”

In this blog, we would like to focus on the second paragraph of this great prophecy.  "Your children will grow up not feeling embarrassed to testify of Jesus Christ in their schools and in their regional societies.  They will tell their friends they go to school with and even their teachers that they are latter-day Saints.  They will have no fear."  

If we give the missionaries who were listening to Elder Eyring time to serve their missions, come home and get married, and start having children,  those children would now be about 10 years old and younger.  We would like to introduce you to one of the children in the Japan Nagoya Mission who is fulfilling that prophecy:

Kanazawa Stake, Komatsu Ward, Mitsuko Nishita

“And please bless Baba that she can quit drinking coffee so she can be baptized with me. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.” Just like every other day, seven-year-old Amane Nishita finished a prayer for her grandmother, “Baba,” to be baptized together with Amane on her eighth birthday.

The conversion of Mitsuko “Baba” Nishita, however, began many years before Amane even knew how to pray. When Amane was first born, Mitsuko marveled at the beauty of her first granddaughter. She held baby Amane in her arms and, overcome with the Spirit, committed that if this perfect little baby grew up and got baptized, she would get baptized too. That love the Amane grew and grew over eight years. But with six months left before Amane’s baptism, Grandma Nishita was no closer to the gospel.

As a part of their missionary work, the Elder serving in Komatsu went to the Nishita’s home to help them make a list of name as directed on page 172 of Preach My Gospel. It was through that activity that Amane’s mother, Sister Nishita, shared with the missionaries the story of Grandma Nishita. It was there that the missionaries learned of Grandma Nishita’s hidden commitment to be baptized. So they got to work. They decided to do a Family Home Evening with the Nishita family and their grandmother.

At the Family Home Evening, Amane said the opening prayer, asking Heavenly Father to provide a way for her grandmother to be baptized. When she raised her head, Grandma Nishita’s eyes were filled with tears. Her deep love for her granddaughter motivated her to make a goal. She would be baptized with her granddaughter.

She started meeting with the missionaries regularly. She read The Book of Mormon and prayed every day. She asked her family any questions she had. And every day, she was reminded of her commitment by her granddaughter. She was progressing really well, ready to be baptized with her granddaughter. But three weeks before her schedule baptism date, Grandma Nishita lost her commitment. Things that she used to have no problems with suddenly became huge doubts. Her desire to be baptized seemed to have completely faded away.

The missionaries lost all contact with her and were devastated. But even more than that, the Nishita family who had supported her seemed to have lost their faith. The members who had rallied around her and looked forward to her baptism seemed discouraged.

Amane got baptized just following her eighth birthday. Her grandmother attended, but she seemed to distance herself from the missionaries. The following week, Sister Nishita invited the missionaries to come to their house for a lesson with Grandma Nishita. The missionaries went, afraid to expect much. But when they arrived and asked her about her experience at the baptism, Grandma Nishita opened up. She explained that she felt like she needed to be baptized. She felt guilty for not being baptized and wished she could’ve been baptized with her granddaughter. She expressed her strong desire to be cleansed from her sins and her need for baptism. She had a complete change of heart, and that day the missionaries set a new goal for baptism. Grandma Nishita would be baptized on her birthday, the following month. The Spirit was strong and she committed wholeheartedly.

From there, Grandma Nishita had no problems. She was completely committed to this change. If the missionaries couldn’t meet because of her health or schedule, the members stepped in and strengthened her. And through it all, she was strengthened by the love and support of her family.  Grama Nishita was baptized September 19, 2012.

A Living Example of Open Your Mouth

Written by Elder Mark Gillespie

When President Baird came to visit us in Nakatsugawa in September, Elder Sanderson and I learned a lot from him about being effective missionaries – particularly about being effective finders. In Nakatsugawa, we have a small branch. We do our best to work with the members, but there is still plenty of opportunity for us to do finding on our own. The day that President Baird worked with us, we tried to contact a former investigator who was not home. Since there was no one home, we followed the counsel of Preach My Gospel and began to talk to the neighbors! We did a full 10x session (visiting ten people and talking to them) with President Baird in the foothills above Nakatsugawa. (See the enclosed pictures of the neighborhood where we worked.) President Baird started teaching us by example, but then encouraged us to apply the principles we saw him use by ourselves. These principles have helped us become much more effective at finding, especially in door-to-door tracting situations.

The first principle we learned was concerning goals and accountability. Of course we had been setting goals before President Baird came to visit us - we wouldn't be effective missionaries at all without any goals. But we adopted the practice of setting short-term goals for every block of time that we are using for finding. (We set goals for the number of people to talk to, the number of pamphlets or Book of Mormon copies to give out, and the number of investigators and potential investigators we think we can find.) We say a prayer before we begin, explaining our goals to the Lord and asking for His help. Then, we work hard to achieve those goals. We don't always meet every goal that we set, but we always see success, and often it's from stretching ourselves to reach the goals that we set! Finally, we always account to the Lord (again, through prayer) before we move on to our next appointment or activity, and I feel that because we have that duty to account for our time, we have been able to use it more effectively. By applying these principles of effective planning and accounting, we have been able to find more investigators than ever before, and we have gained more confidence in speaking to people when we meet them for the first time.

Elder Gillespie

Elder Sanderson

That brings me to the next point. Meaningful conversation is very, very important. Missionaries are not salesmen; we are not here to persuade people to buy a product or even to “get them to listen to us”. As Preach My Gospel says, we shouldn't come to peoples' doors saying, “We're sharing a message with people.” We should simply share our message with love and respect! We are here to invite others to come unto Christ, and we can only do that if we truly love those that we serve. And so, when we meet someone for the first time, it really helps to talk to them sincerely about their life, their family, their interests, or whatever else comes naturally to mind. We have found that not only does this help us gain a greater love and understanding for those we meet, but it helps them see that love when they talk to us, and they are more interested in our message. Plenty of people decide that they aren't interested, but they still have a great experience talking to us about their family or their life. That gives them an opportunity to feel the Spirit and a reason to talk to the missionaries the next time they knock on the door. And sometimes, they do listen; we gained an investigator, whom we are still teaching, because we started to speak with him in a natural, confident way with President Baird as our example.

Finally, President Baird was a living example of how to apply the oft-quoted missionary admonition to "open your mouth". President Baird spoke to everyone in our path (everyone that Elder Sanderson and I passed by, that is)! He was bold and loving, and didn't hesitate to explain who we are, what we do, and why we want to talk to them. Once, he had no time except to give a flyer for free English class to a student walking by and say, “Free English class. Every Thursday. Please come!”  But he never let an opportunity pass by. As missionaries, we should do the same. We can also set specific goals for how we will speak to those around us – that was something we did with President Baird, and I know it helps us to better see how we can fulfill our purpose. But the most important thing I learned from watching President Baird talk with everyone is that there is no reason to be afraid or hesitant. We often say “open your mouth” as missionaries, but the actual scripture is “open your mouth and it shall be filled!” I have seen the fulfillment of this promise many times on my mission already.

I may never get another chance to work so closely with my mission president again, but I am so grateful for the opportunity that Elder Sanderson and I had to work with him. I have only listed a few of the things that we learned for time's sake, but those were the most valuable principles that I saw from working with President Baird. I know that as we've applied these principles, I've seen greater success in our missionary efforts, and I know that we have become more effective servants of Jesus Christ. And I encourage everyone who reads this to do the same, because I can promise you that there's nothing more satisfying to a missionary than that!

"Who is Mormon? Come here!"

Testimony of Diana Kyan, Matsumoto Branch, submitted by Elder and Sister Matsuhashi

About forty years ago, I was attending a Catholic high school in a rural area of the Philippines.  I was 14 when my sister introduced me to the Gospel, and the missionaries taught me the discussions.  They answered many questions I had had since I was a small child, and I decided to join the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  From then on, I would visit the homes of less-active members and young investigators with the missionaries.

I knew that my classmates saw me with missionaries, but because I was determined that I would “never change my faith, no matter what,” I did not worry.

Sister Diana

One day, at a morning assembly, the principal, who was a nun, demanded to the whole school, “Who among you is Mormon?”  My classmate whispered to me, “It’s you!  You need to go!”  because she knew I was a Latter-day Saint.  I was very embarrassed.  “Who is Mormon?  Come here!  Tell us if you are doing something good!”  The principal said harshly to the 500 students.

I wondered, “Why is she doing this?”  I felt angry inside, but I had been taught to show respect to those senior to me, so I pushed it away.  In my heart, I exclaimed, “You can say anything, but I’m not going to change my mind!”  I’m sure the principal would have been very surprised I had such strong determination in such a circumstance.

Since that day, word spread to the whole school that I was a Latter-day Saint.  My peers started calling me names.  It was a difficult time for me, but my best friend never called me names.  After a while, my friend asked me if I was still a Mormon.  I said without hesitation, “Yes, and I will be for the rest of my life!”

During that difficult time, I received much encouragement from the Young Women’s Theme, to “stand as a witness of God at all times and in all thinks, and in all places.”  This phrase always came to my mind and sustained me, and I continuously felt God’s hand helping me.

I was only able to go to school three days a week, due to family circumstances, but my grades were at the top of the class.  One day, the principal came to me and said, “Would you like to lead the choir at the graduation ceremony?”  I was flattered that she had extended this offer despite that she knew I was a Mormon.  I decided to accept her offer.  Since then, she never said anything bad about the Church, and we became very close.

Now, anyone of any faith can attend the school.  I have the determination to fear nothing.  I know that God knows how we can grow more and guides us to achieve it.

Diana Shimai with Sister and Elder Matsuhashi,
wonderful missionaries in Matsumoto.

November Transfers, 2012

The last transfer of the year.  But the same emotions accompany it, as with every transfer.  Oh, how we hate to let go of these four wonderful, experienced, mature and amazing missionaries.  And the only consolation is that we are  getting three new missionaries.  They will never be able to replace those who left, but they will be strong and wonderful in their own right.

So, our warm goodbyes to:

Seated from left:  Elder Amussen, Elder Kishi, and Elder Kusume
Standing:  President Baird, Sister Baird, Sister Nishimuro

Elder Ibuki Kishi

Elder Kishi has a talent for singing, cutting paper into wonderful animals and shapes, 

juggling and card tricks.  He is cheerful and positive and makes friends with everyone.  

Children especially love it when he is around.  He is a hard worker and has a strong testimony.

Elder Kaneko and Elder Kishi--
Out standing in their field.

Elder Kishi loves swords.
Elder Matson on the left.

Elder Berrett and Elder Kishi contemplating the universe.
(Or maybe waiting for a train.)

Elder Yuichiro Kusume

From left, Elder Soliai, Elder Kusume, and Elder Kishi

Elder Kusume at Cherry Blossom Time.

Elder Kusume is very open with everyone.  He is a hard worker and 

can easily gain the trust of people.  He is very easy to get along with, according to 

one elder who knows him well.   He is also a good cook.

Elder Cameron Amussen

Elder Amussen, on left, looks solemn, but he's just wishing they'd
quit taking pictures so he could dig into that great lasagna.
Also, Sister Nishimuro, Elder Kishi, Elder Kusume

Elder Amussen on left, with Elder Dunn
They have just told this sister about the Book of Mormon
and she has invited them to dinner.

Elder Amussen became very good with the Japanese language. Before his mission, he had a goal of learning Japanese, and a goal of serving a mission.  He felt the Lord had His eye on him when he found out he would be able to do both at the same time.


Sister Asahi Nishimuro

Sister Eguchi and Sister Nishimuro (on right)

Aren't they beautiful!
Sister Nishimuro (left) and Sister Eguchi.

You've just got to read this book, Pikachu.
You will be forever changed by it.

Sister Nishimuro has been a very obedient missionary. Her companions say that she has lots of energy and works hard.  She loves everyone, and it is easy for her to show her love to others.  She loves to cook and sing, and her voice is exceptionally beautiful and amazing.  She can become friends with anyone and was a very caring companion.

We dropped them off at the airport in the morning, and went back in the evening to give a warm welcome to our new missionaries.  This may be our last dragon photo.  Next year?  The Year of the Snake.  That can't possibly be as pretty as the dragon.

From left, Sister Katsuta, Sister Silva, Sister and President Baird, Elder Shimbashi, and Elder Waddell

Of course, we can't leave the airport without the Hoiza shout.
Yosh!!

Next morning in the mission home: writing something
for Sister Baird's special book.

Elder Ellsworth at the piano, and Elder Clark on the cello.
We get to enjoy wonderful music whenever possible.

Elder Dee Waddell

Seto will be blessed to have Elder Waddell (left)
along with his trainer, Elder Dunn.

From Manassas, Virginia, Elder Waddell is the oldest of four children.  His first goal is to be a successful husband and father, but he would also like to be a commercial airline pilot or a musician.  He is a musician, singer, basketball player and an avid longboard skateboarder.  He says he is always happy and smling.  He is respectful, enjoys life and is easily liked.  He has born his testimony many times to his friends who aren't members of the Church. 

Elder Dunn could become an author, filmmaker, English teacher or TV broadcaster.  He is 
energetic and enjoys being humorous.

Sister Yoko Katsuta

Sister Katsuta (left) is pointing to her new area, Takayama,
with Sister Adachi, her trainer.

Hyogo, Japan is home to Sister Yoko Katsuta.  Sister Katsuta has a wonderful mother who was kind and cheerful and who influenced her interest in the Church and testimony.  She passed away when Sister Katsuta was in high school.  Sister Katsuta is the only member of the church in her family.  She loves to read and hopes to become a librarian.  She also loves to sing and has been on a women's chorus team where they perform at various places.  Her strong point is being kind to all around her.

Sister Adachi has a strong testimony of the scriptures.  If food is good, you want to share it 
with others.  Like that, she wants to share the Gospel.  She loves the Book of Mormon 
and gets power from it.  She wants to pray hard, feel the spirit, and work with her companion willingly.

Elder Ashton Shimbashi

On left is Elder Shimbashi, and Elder Sarager is his trainer.
They will be working in Kariya.

Elder Ashton Shimbashi hails from Alberta, Canada.  His mother served a mission in Fukuoka and his father in Colorado.  He loves sports, especially hockey, soccer and football.  He is personable and gets along well with people, is a hard worker, and he says he fears failure.  His testimony of the scriptures gave him a strong desire to serve a mission.  He hopes to learn the language quickly, because even though he didn't grow up speaking Japanese, people will expect him to know it.

Elder Sarager is great with building relationships with members.  Someone said of him, "He's the nicest guy you'll ever meet."  He has a great heart and understands his purpose as a missionary.  On top of that, he's an incredible volleyball player.

Sister Fabiana Silva

Sister Silva, left, and Sister Rogers.
They will be the first sisters in Yokkaichi.

We think Sister Fabiana Silva may be the first sister missionary to serve in the Japan Nagoya Mission from Brazil.  She is from Sao Paulo.  She has studied translation and interpretation in college and wants to continue that when she arrives home.  She loves to read, and enjoys knitting and doing puzzles for relaxation.  She has lots of energy and likes to keep moving, even when she is tired.  She rarely gives up on something.  It is easy for her to put others' needs before her own.  In 2009, she prayed to God for a new opportunity, and met the missionaries, who helped her find a new life.  Her mother was baptized four months later. When she was baptized, she told the missionaries she wanted to be like them--she wanted to become a missionary.  And she has.

Sister Rogers is easy going, gets excited over little  things, and is happy and high on life.  She has had a deep love for the gospel all her life. And it is a highlight whenever we get to hear her play violin.  She inspires us with her music.

What a beautiful group, united in a most important work!
From left:  Sister Adachi, Elder Waddell, Sister Katsuta, Elder Dunn, Sister Rogers,
Elder Sarager, Sister Silva, Elders Shimbashi, Sister Baird, President Baird