Transfer Time Yet Again, April 2012

Where did the time go?  Transfers are supposed to be every six weeks.  While our calendar says it's been that long, we have trouble believing it.  The last transfer was the day before yesterday!

This time, we only had to send home three elders.  But the mission won't be the same without:

Elder Anderson

Elder Erik Anderson loves playing guitar and cooking.  His is also interested in history and culture.  But mostly, he loves to serve people.  He calls West Haven, Utah home, and is excited to be able to converse with his mother's family (all in Japan) fluently.  He also hopes to take over his father's branch of the company, and the language will enable him to do that.

Elder Wilson

One of the missionaries who knows Elder Wilson said of him:
"He is an elder who is capable of showing a lot of love.  He is a very respectable person."

Elder Johnson (front and center)
Left to right: Elders Hollister, Kervinin, and Farnsworth.

Elder Nathan Johnson is very friendly and outgoing, saying hello to everyone he sees.  He is diligent and a hard worker, and stays optimistic.  He has an amazing testimony and is a very creative thinker.  His home is Orem, Utah.

Elder Nathan Johnson is very friendly and outgoing, saying hello to everyone he sees.  He is diligent and a hard worker, and stays optimistic.  He has an amazing testimony and is a very creative thinker.  His home is Orem, Utah.

And happily, we welcomed 13.  For us, it was a LUCKY number.

We got this great group picture.
Actually, it's Golden Week, a time to celebrate children and the year of the dragon.

We did the HOIZA shout!
Hope Of Israel, Zion's Army

We fed them the world's best lasagna.

And here is absolute proof that they arrived at the mission home.
Parent's, can you spot your son's/daughter's shoes?

Elder Ian Sanderson (left) with his first companion,
Elder Duarte.

Elder Ian Sanderson considers himself a social person and likes being placed in leadership positions.  He plans to learn Russian after his mission.  He is from American Fork, Utah and is excited to bring the Gospel to the Japanese people. One of our missionaries said of Elder Duarte:  "He is full of love.  He can get along with anyone.  And he is always genki!"

Elder Ian Sanderson considers himself a social person and likes being placed in leadership positions.  He plans to learn Russian after his mission.  He is from American Fork, Utah and is excited to bring the Gospel to the Japanese people.

One of our missionaries said of Elder Duarte:  "He is full of love.  He can get along with anyone.  And he is always genki!"

Elder Joshua Jones (left) with his first companion,
Elder Ikeda.

Elder Joshua Jones comes from a family of four.  He is also very close to his grandmother.  He enjoys learning languages, and wants to work in a business that requires travel to foreign countries.  He joined the Church three years before his mission and is from Logan, Utah. Before his mission, Elder Ikeda met a 15 year old boy through basketball.  When Elder Ikeda wouldn't play on Sunday, Hiro wanted to know why.  Elder Ikeda invited him to church.  Hiro loved it, listened to the lessons and was baptized.

Elder Joshua Jones comes from a family of four.  He is also very close to his grandmother.  He enjoys learning languages, and wants to work in a business that requires travel to foreign countries.  He joined the Church three years before his mission and is from Logan, Utah.

Before his mission, Elder Ikeda met a 15 year old boy through basketball.  When Elder Ikeda wouldn't play on Sunday, Hiro wanted to know why.  Elder Ikeda invited him to church.  Hiro loved it, listened to the lessons and was baptized.  

Elder Jack Koch (left) with his first companion,
Elder Heo.

Elder Jack Koch was born in Okinawa, and has also lived in Germany, Wyoming and Utah.  In his family the girls were born in Wyoming, the boys in Japan. When he gets home he will go back to BYU, find the most beautiful girl in the whole world and marry her. Then he plans to live happily ever after.  His goal is to do what the Lord sent him to Japan to do and to live up to his fullest potential. He says he is a little headstrong, but he is always there with a laugh or a shoulder to support someone. Elder Heo is good at focusing on one thing.  He loves to travel and receives knowlege and inspiration when he does, and always has a spiritual experience.  He also enjoys playing basketball.

Elder Jack Koch was born in Okinawa, and has also lived in Germany, Wyoming and Utah.  In his family the girls were born in Wyoming, the boys in Japan.
When he gets home he will go back to BYU, find the most beautiful girl in the whole world and marry her. Then he plans to live happily ever after.  His goal is to do what the Lord sent him to Japan to do and to live up to his fullest potential. He says he is a little headstrong, but he is always there with a laugh or a shoulder to support someone.

Elder Heo is good at focusing on one thing.  He loves to travel and receives knowlege and inspiration when he does, and always has a spiritual experience.  He also enjoys playing basketball.

Elder Benjamin Burnett (left) with his first companion,
Elder Farnsworth.

Albuquerque, New Mexico is home to Elder Benjamin Burnett.   His father is currently the bishop, his older brother is also on a mission, and he has three younger brothers.   He is good with computers and a quick learner, so that is why he wants a career in science or engineering and hopes to invent something.

Albuquerque, New Mexico is home to Elder Benjamin Burnett.   His father is currently the bishop, his older brother is also on a mission, and he has three younger brothers.   He is good with computers and a quick learner, so that is why he wants a career in science or engineering and hopes to invent something.

Elder Farnsworth loves being with family, camping, hiking, 

cooking, soccer, service, and many other things.  He describes 

himself as awesome, clever, dashingly good looking and HUMBLE.  

But his mom tells him he is intelligent, patient, hard working, 

creative, faithful, and has a good sense of humor.

Elder Tomonori Kanda (left) with his first companion,
Elder Hara.

Elder Tomonori Kanda is from Sugamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.  He has a dream to make a robot suit to help older people, and to walk around the world and eat foods from many different countries.  His hobbies are eating, karaoke, table tennis and swimming.  He says he is always calm and can make other people laugh  even when he's not trying.  His favorite food is katsudon. Elder Hara likes to go to hot springs a lot. But his dream is to open his own jewelry store.  He has studied gems and can recognize what kind of gem it is and its value.

Elder Tomonori Kanda is from Sugamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.  He has a dream to make a robot suit to help older people, and to walk around the world and eat foods from many different countries.  His hobbies are eating, karaoke, table tennis and swimming.  He says he is always calm and can make other people laugh  even when he's not trying.  His favorite food is katsudon. Elder Hara likes to go to hot springs a lot. But his dream is to open his own jewelry store.  He has studied gems and can recognize what kind of gem it is and its value.

Elder Tomonori Kanda is from Sugamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.  He has a dream to make a robot suit to help older people, and to walk around the world and eat foods from many different countries.  His hobbies are eating, karaoke, table tennis and swimming.  He says he is always calm and can make other people laugh  even when he's not trying.  His favorite food is katsudon.

Elder Hara likes to go to hot springs a lot. But his dream is to open his own jewelry store.  He has studied gems and can recognize what kind of gem it is and its value.

Elder Taro Shimizu (left) with his first companion,
Elder Tojo.

Elder Taro Shimizu is from Nada, Kobe and comes from a family of 4.  He likes playing the piano, painting, sports and cooking.  Accounting is his dream job.  He used to shy, but has overcome that characteristic. When Elder Tojo did homestay in the United States, he saw the big gap between rich and poor.  Now he wants to help anyone in need of anything.  After his mission, he plans on going to university.

Elder Taro Shimizu is from Nada, Kobe and comes from a family of 4.  He likes playing the piano, painting, sports and cooking.  Accounting is his dream job.  He used to shy, but has overcome that characteristic.

When Elder Tojo did homestay in the United States, he saw the big gap between rich and poor.  Now he wants to help anyone in need of anything.  After his mission, he plans on going to university.

Elder Aisaku Takabori (left) with his first companion,
Elder Rust.

Elder Aisaku Takabori is from Miyamae, Kanagawa, but he was born in New Jersey and lived there for 18 years. He has an older brother on a mission and a sister also preparing to serve.   Elder Ryan Rust is a very self-motivated person and is teachable.  He works very hard at what he is asked to do, and has finished three years of nutritional science at BYU.  He had the medical schools he most wanted to go to picked out before he left on his mission.  He will be a great doctor!

Elder Aisaku Takabori is from Miyamae, Kanagawa, but he was born in New Jersey and lived there for 18 years. He has an older brother on a mission and a sister also preparing to serve.  

Elder Ryan Rust is a very self-motivated person and is teachable.  He works very hard at what he is asked to do, and has finished three years of nutritional science at BYU.  He had the medical schools he most wanted to go to picked out before he left on his mission.  He will be a great doctor!

Sister Aoi Yamada (left) with her first companions,
Sister Saito and Sister Hunt.

Sister Aoi Yamada is from Hokkaido, Japan.  Her 3 siblings have all served missions, including a younger brother who is serving in Fukuoka at the same time as her.  She loves running and cross country skiing, and feels great when she is doing it.


Because Sister Saito is a nurse, she would like to use her talent.  She is good at working with people and is calm.  

Sister Hunt calls herself reserved, but she has many close friends and is motivated to do things well.  Prayer has always helped strengthen her testimony.

Elder Charles Baker (right) with his first companion,
Elder Ellsworth.

Elder Charles Baker's best friend is his father.  He is the youngest in his family of five and admits that he's spoiled.  He loves learning and plans to become a mechanical engineer.  Sandy, Utah is where Elder Baker calls home. Elder Ellsworth says his father is generous and puts the Lord first, and his mother is nearly perfect and his best friend.  He has a strong testimony that is very personal to him.  He felt the mission call changed his life, even before he entered the MTC.

Elder Charles Baker's best friend is his father.  He is the youngest in his family of five and admits that he's spoiled.  He loves learning and plans to become a mechanical engineer.  Sandy, Utah is where Elder Baker calls home.

Elder Ellsworth says his father is generous and puts the Lord first, and his mother is nearly perfect and his best friend.  He has a strong testimony that is very personal to him.  He felt the mission call changed his life, even before he entered the MTC. 

Elder Jared Wilcox (left) with his first companion,
Elder Koesashi.

Elder Jared Wilcox is from Westminster, California  and his father is half Japanese.  He plans to go to BYU Hawaii after his mission and study business marketing.  He hopes that will work well with the surfing industry.  He loves to surf, play drums, soccer, snowboard, skateboard and be involved with music.

Elder Koesashi is an optimistic and cheerful person.  At a young men’s camp, he saw a great example of a person younger than him.  He had a strong testimony of the gospel. This young man’s example and a talk by President Monson changed his attitude and strengthened his testimony.  

Elder Mark Gibb (left) with his first companion,
Elder Gottfredson.  (Is there something in his eye?)

Elder Landon Gibb has lived in five states, currently Arizona.  He enjoys repairing and working with computers, photography and art.  He loves Asian Culture and wants to learn Korean and Chinese languages as well.  He is a hard worker and sometimes a perfectionist. Elder Gottfredson loves to sing, and according to some of his companions, he just might sing too much.  He also enjoys country dancing.

Elder Landon Gibb has lived in five states, currently Arizona.  He enjoys repairing and working with computers, photography and art.  He loves Asian Culture and wants to learn Korean and Chinese languages as well.  He is a hard worker and sometimes a perfectionist.

Elder Gottfredson loves to sing, and according to some of his companions, he just might sing too much.  He also enjoys country dancing.  

Elder Jordan Olsen (left) with his first companion,
Elder Matson.

Elder Jordan Olsen, from Overland Park, Kansas, plays percussion instruments and loves music.  His father is a neonatologiest and met his mother on his mission to Denmark.  Elder Olsen's older sister will serve in Germany at the same time as he serves in Japan.  Elder Olsen loves to laugh and make others laugh, and he is thrilled to come back to Japan, where he has lived before.

Elder Jordan Olsen, from Overland Park, Kansas, plays percussion instruments and loves music.  His father is a neonatologiest and met his mother on his mission to Denmark.  Elder Olsen's older sister will serve in Germany at the same time as he serves in Japan.  Elder Olsen loves to laugh and make others laugh, and he is thrilled to come back to Japan, where he has lived before.

Elder Matson has a black belt in Tae Kwan do.  He knows Joseph Smith is a prophet "at his core," and it fills him with joy and adoration when he thinks of the Savior's infinite love.

Elder Thomas Petersen (left) with his first companion,
Elder Horne.

Beaver, Utah is home to Elder Thomas Petersen.  He was actually writing a novel before his mission.  He is interested in different cultures, and wants to become fluent in Japanese.  He enjoys singing and has been in honor choirs and musicals.  He also likes to try new foods. Elder Horne is very skillful in music.  He has also managed to learn excellent Portuguese while in Japan, in addition to his Japanese.

Beaver, Utah is home to Elder Thomas Petersen.  He was actually writing a novel before his mission.  He is interested in different cultures, and wants to become fluent in Japanese.  He enjoys singing and has been in honor choirs and musicals.  He also likes to try new foods.

Elder Horne is very skillful in music.  He has also managed to learn excellent Portuguese while in Japan, in addition to his Japanese.

April 2012 Inchi no Michi

President Baird’s Message

休み、休日、休業日、祝日、国民の祭日、休暇、休暇期。Holidays. Whatever the source, the cause, the stimulus, I love holidays. They represent fun, recreation, relaxation, food. Perhaps what I like best about holidays is spending time with people I love; friends and family. For a short time we are both friends and family to one another. Sister Baird and I love being with you—our Japan Nagoya Mission family.

Of all the types of holidays my very favorite are 宗教の祭日。These are not just holidays, they are holy days. Thanksgiving is like that. It is a holy day; a day for acknowledging the goodness of God and returning thanks to Him for our many blessings. As a mission family we honor this holy day by offering service throughout the day and then enjoying a good meal and sharing feelings with our companions. Christmas is a special holy day. This year we spent time with each zone celebrating our service as missionaries and focusing our attentions on the life of Christ. We celebrated in word, song and a multi-media presentation.

This month we celebrate another of those special holy days. Though Easter may be the most sacred of holy days, we do not gather as a mission to celebrate. Maybe Easter is too sacred for that. Maybe for missionaries, the celebration of Easter should be a personal and spiritual celebration. Perhaps this is a time to reflect on the life of He who is our Savior, Redeemer, and King. Each Easter season I find myself seeking him out in the scriptures. I especially focus on the last week of His mission.

During the month of April, I invite you to seek him out in the same way. His thoughts, actions and teachings during the final week of his mission can be found in Matthew chapters 21-28; Mark chapters 11-16; Luke 19-24; and John 12-21. Don’t gallop through these pages like a race horse with only the end in mind. Go slow. Ponder. Reflect.

As you read about the last week of Christ’s mission, please do as Nephi recommends—“liken” it to you and your situation. As you go slow, reflect and ponder, and then “liken”, the Holy Ghost will give you rich insights. I pray that you will rely on the Spirit to teach you as you read. For that reason I will not offer commentary on the following days—just milestone events.

Day 1 Sunday: The stage is set in Matt 20: 17-19,29. As Jesus and his disciples make their way toward Jerusalem to keep the holy day, Christ tells his disciples of his impending imprisonment, crucifixion, death and resurrection. As they depart Jericho a sizeable multitude begins to follow. The multitude grows as they pass through Bethphage and Bethany. By the time Jesus is riding into the city of Jerusalem all the multitude praises him. They call him the Son of David, acknowledging him as their king! The chief priests and scribes were unhappy—disturbed even. They chided Jesus saying, “Master, rebuke thy disciples.” His reply was regal, “I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.” Luke 19: 39,40.

Day 2 Monday: Jesus returns to Jerusalem having spent the night in Bethany. Hungered he curses the baron fig tree. He cleanses the temple, Heals in the temple and returns to Bethany for the night.

Day 3 Tuesday: Teaches his disciples who comment, “how soon the fig tree is withered away”, that they shall do this and greater things by the prayer of faith—even to the removing of mountains. We must ask. He teaches of authority. Jesus teaches parables of two sons and the householder. He successfully navigates traps from Pharisees and Sadducees in their questioning. He accuses them of hypocrisy, teaches the signs of the times, gives parables of ten virgins, talents, sheep and goats.

Day 4 Wednesday: Christ administers the sacrament, teaches the role of the comforter and Holy Ghost, offers great intercessory prayer. He retires to the Garden of Gethsemane and performs

the first part of the atonement. He is betrayed by Judas and taken prisoner.

Day 5 Thursday: Christ is tried. He remains silent. He endures all manner of

mocking and abuse. He performs additional portions of the atonement—He is

crucified and buried.

Day 6 Friday: Christ remains in tomb while chief priests and Pharisees seek a

watch to prevent his body from being taken.

Day 7 Saturday: Christ completes the Atonement. He rises from the dead

bringing resurrection to all. He gives a sacred charge to all who will follow him

Matthew 28:16-20. I wonder what our world would be like if He had coasted the

last week of His mission. May we pray and ask in faith to perform the miracles

He asks of us. May we commit to GO as did the first son in the parable. May we

actually GO and PERFORM the assigned task as did the second. As we seek our

errand from the Lord and work hard to achieve it, we will be blessed, as Elder

Holland promised, with urgency in the work and the love our Heavenly Father

has for those who labor in His vineyard. Let my love for you stand as evidence

that He loves you, I pray in Jesus’ name Amen.

"Are You Obedient?"

Written by Elder Samuel David Wilson

Elder Kekauoha and Elder Wilson (right)

As I think of some miracle/baptism stories from my mission, one stands out in my mind.   It was on my second transfer in the mission.  I was serving in the Kariya area and Elder Kekauoha was my companion.

 

It was September 9^th, 2010, and Elder Kekauoha and I just got done visiting some potential investigators when we got a call from President Baird.  He did the usual, “Are you being obedient?  Is the Church true?”  We answered yes.  He then told us he had a referral for us from the Philippines and that we should contact this person ASAP.  He also instructed us to call a member who knew the area where this referral lived and ask them about that area. He told us to have that member give us a ride there.  He also asked us to give him a call back and report to him either that very day or the next.  We agreed. 

The information we got on this referral was that of a man named Nori who lives in Hekinan (one of the cities in our area.)  The information we got also included that his wife was a member and that he was very interested to learn about the Church.  We were confused because the referral came from the Philippines, but his name was Japanese.  Also according to what we heard, it sounded like his wife lived in the Philippines. 

We already had plans for that day, so we couldn’t contact him that day, but we did call a member and ask them if they could take us the next day.  We told them the address, so they could figure out how to get there.  The next day we went with the member, but apparently the address was too new and hadn’t been updated in the maps or the GPS.  The member dropped us off in the general location and we set out looking.

 

We started asking people where we needed to go to get near the address, and they directed us.  After about twenty minutes of looking, we found a place we thought might be the apartment, but because of the side of the neighborhood we were on, we were cut off from a clear path to the apartment.  We didn’t know how we could get around, so we decided to clear some trenches and squeeze past some narrow parts of an entrance, and finally made it to the apartment.  Luckily, it was the right one. 

We said a prayer, and then went.  First we contacted the neighbor, then went for Higo’s door.  We rang the intercom box, but no response.  We rang it again, but again no response.  We didn’t know what we should do, but as we were talking about it, a voice came on the intercom.  It was him.  We told him who we were and that his friend Daniel from the Philippines said to visit him.  He told us to hang on, and came to the door.

 

We didn’t know if he was Filipino or Japanese, so we asked.  He is Japanese, and his wife is Filipina.  We again told him about Daniel from the Philippines, but he didn’t know what we were talking about.  He called his wife and we talked to her.

 

Contrary to what we thought, she actually does live in Japan.  She said she was a member, but that she didn’t know the name of the Church in Japan, so she never could find it.  But she said that she wanted to come to church and she also wanted us to teach her husband and to baptize him.

 That’s exactly what happened.  From that day on, he became an investigator.  They started coming to church and he was baptized the next transfer. 

I know because we treated the referral that President Baird entrusted to us with care, and followed his directions, we were able to see that miracle.   A family was able to get on the path to eternity.  My testimony of obedience and treating the Lord’s prepared people with care was strengthened greatly.  I know God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ live.  This is their work and there is no greater work than missionary work.  The Church is true.  This is one of my treasured experiences, and I share it and testify of the greatness of the Lord.  In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen

March 2012 New Missionaries

It is always a treat to get new missionaries in.  We first get their photos and learn a little about them.  We wait a few months while they are trained at the MTC.  Finally the day comes, and we wait excitedly at the airport for them to come through that door and finally be "ours."  We love it; we love them.  This month we expecially exciting because there were 8.  The more we get, the happier we are.

Here they all are at the airport, getting their first of many photos with President and Sister Baird.

Elder deOliveira first meeting Elder Augusto.

It is very exciting to meet your trainer for the first time.  It usually includes a big hug.







It's tradition to get your picture taken, showing the area you will be working in.  (All the new missionaries are on the left.)

Elder Gates will be privileged to serve with Elder Dinkel in Ina.

Bountiful, Utah is home to Elder Peter Gates.  He plans to major in Sound  Engineering.  He LOVES classical music, singing it, playing it, writing it. He says there's always room for improvement, but he is loving the journey! He wants to serve faithfully and give his all to whatever God wants him to do. He is calm and would rather listen than talk. Elder Dinkel is a driven person who wants to do his best.  He loves the Savior and has felt His love numerous times.  Elder Dinkel also loves to read and draw manga.

Bountiful, Utah is home to Elder Peter Gates.  He plans to major in Sound
 Engineering.  He LOVES classical music, singing it, playing it, writing it.
He says there's always room for improvement, but he is loving the journey!
He wants to serve faithfully and give his all to whatever God wants him to do.
He is calm and would rather listen than talk.

Elder Dinkel is a driven person who wants to do his best.  He loves the Savior and has felt His love numerous times.  Elder Dinkel also loves to read and draw manga.

Elder Benham gets to serve in Fukui with Elder Okajima.

Elder Joel Benham hales from Plummer, Idaho, but was born at Misawa AFB in Japan.  His family all loves to read books and to listen to music. He plans to work to earn money for college when he gets home. Elder Benham loves reading, drawing,  archery, roller blading, sword fighting with his brothers, laying on the roof and watching the clouds go by.  He says that he will write back to anyone who writes to him. Elder Okajima loves to sing.  He was in a choir in the YSA group in Tokyo and they made a CD.  He is very intelligent and catches on to things quickly.  One missionary who knows him says he is smart like a fox.  He is always smiling and always wants to do better.

Elder Joel Benham hales from Plummer, Idaho, but was born at Misawa AFB in Japan.  His family all loves to read books and to listen to music. He plans to work to earn money for college when he gets home. Elder Benham loves reading, drawing,  archery, roller blading, sword fighting with his brothers, laying on the roof and watching the clouds go by.  He says that he will write back to anyone who writes to him.

Elder Okajima loves to sing.  He was in a choir in the YSA group in Tokyo and they made a CD.  He is very intelligent and catches on to things quickly.  One missionary who knows him says he is smart like a fox.  He is always smiling and always wants to do better.

 Elder Sambongi will be serving with Elder Kuwahara in Ichinomiya. 

Elder Shun Sambongi is from Orem, Utah.  His parents were both born in Japan, joined the church and met at a church activity.  Elder Sambongi is the first in his family to serve a mission. Elder Kuwahara is a very kind person.  He feels God's love and knows that everyone is a child of God.  After his mission, he wants to find a job that makes people happy.

Elder Shun Sambongi is from Orem, Utah.  His parents were both born in Japan, joined the church and met at a church activity.  Elder Sambongi is the first in his family to serve a mission.

Elder Kuwahara is a very kind person.  He feels God's love and knows that everyone is a child of God.  After his mission, he wants to find a job that makes people happy.

Elder Wakamatsu will be in Suwa serving with Elder Kerksiek.

Elder Tyler Wakamatsu is from Lehi, Utah, and his family cares a lot about people.  He loves music, plays trumpet, and loves to be with family and friends.   He would like to get an education, travel the world to play music professionally, and get married. He describes himself as laid back, friendly, and energized. He wants to be known as someone who loves the Lord and keeps his commandments. Elder Kerksiek is one of those people who does not get angry easily.  He tries to be someone others want to be with.  Maybe he learned that from his family of 12.  He also finds the universe extremely complex and mysterious.

Elder Tyler Wakamatsu is from Lehi, Utah, and his family cares a lot about people.  He loves music, plays trumpet, and loves to be with family and friends.   He would like to get an education, travel the world to play music professionally, and get married. He describes himself as laid back, friendly, and energized. He wants to be known as someone who loves the Lord and keeps his commandments.

Elder Kerksiek is one of those people who does not get angry easily.  He tries to be someone others want to be with.  Maybe he learned that from his family of 12.  He also finds the universe extremely complex and mysterious.

This is Elder James with his trainer, Elder Clark.  They will be in Seto.

Idaho Falls, Idaho is happy to claim Elder Aaron James as theirs.  Elder James likes to brings things to life on paper with his drawing, and he loves Japanese culture. Elder James hopes to major in graphic arts.  He is kind to everyone and very patient. Elder Clark tries to be concerned, sincere,and thoughtful.  If he ever gets irritated, he doesn't let people know about it.  He took biology his first year of college, but he hasn't decided what he will major in when he gets home.  He knows his mission is not about him, but about what God can make of him.

Idaho Falls, Idaho is happy to claim Elder Aaron James as theirs.  Elder James likes to brings things to life on paper with his drawing, and he loves Japanese culture. Elder James hopes to major in graphic arts.  He is kind to everyone and very patient.

Elder Clark tries to be concerned, sincere,and thoughtful.  If he ever gets irritated, he doesn't let people know about it.  He took biology his first year of college, but he hasn't decided what he will major in when he gets home.  He knows his mission is not about him, but about what God can make of him.

Sister Eguchi (left) and Sister Inoue met seconds ago and are already best friends.
Sister Shizuka Eguchi is from Kai, Yamanishi, Japan.  She likes listening to classical music and going to concerts.  Doing good deeds secretly brings her much joy.  She once had a church leader touch her heart with some special advice, including reading the Book of Mormon.  She followed that advice and her life changed since that day.

Sister Inoue's goal is to go to university or specialized school, possibly in a foreign country.  Of course, a temple marriage and family are part of her plans, and even to become a couple missionary in the future.  She is cheerful and loves talking with friends. 

These beautiful sisters will be serving in Fukutoku.

Elder deOliveira will be serving with Elder Augusto in Takaoka.

Elder Dimas DeOliveira is from Paranagua, Brazil.  But he has lived and taught English in the United States.  He is a happy, enthusiastic person and loves to share the Gospel.  Elder deOliveira intends to study to get in a good university and work!  He loves to sing and watch good movies.  His goal after his misson is to become a diplomat and of course keep doing missionary work.  He says he is very rational, friendly and he loves to talk.

Elder Augusto is one of the funniest elders in the mission, according to another missionary who knows him well.  He has the ability to love anyone, and everyone loves him.  What a wonderful thing to have said about you!

And Elder Sarager gets to serve with Elder Ashcroft in Inuyama.

Home for Elder Spencer Sarager is Gilbert, Arizona.  He has three older brothers who have served missions.  He loves the outdoors and all sports.   Elder Ashcroft's mother was converted by his father, and was born in Nagoya.  How exciting for Elder Ashcroft to serve a mission in his mother’s hometown.

Inochi no Michi, March 2012

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President Baird’s Message

Ammon is a Book of Mormon Hero and a model missionary. Some of the lessons he teaches modern readers of scripture are found in his first encounter with the Lamanites in Alma chapters 17-19.

Separating from his brothers, Ammon made his journey to the land of Ishmael. He was quickly captured and taken to the king who had power to imprison, enslave, or even kill him. Questioned by the king about his intentions among the Lamanites, Ammon did not say, “It’s tough to be here. I miss my family and my girlfriend. I wish I were back at home in school.” Rather, he responded, “I desire to dwell among this people for a time; yea, and perhaps until the day I die.”

Ammon’s response was pleasing to the king who invited him into the king’s own family. Ammon declined choosing servitude. The king did not enslave Ammon. Ammon CHOSE to be servant to the king.

The Book of Mormon story that follows is a favorite among members of the church, but especially to young men and missionaries. Ammon joins other servants of the king, caring for his flocks. Wicked rivals scatter the king’s flocks and Ammon’s fellow servants “murmur” and “wept” for they knew their lives would be forfeit because of the loss of the flocks. Ammon’s heart, on the other hand, “was swollen with joy” and he encouraged them to “be of good cheer” and he rallied his fellow servants to work. He helped all around him to fulfill their stewardship.

Ammon and his fellow servants gathered the scattered sheep. His companions stood close guard while Ammon alone went to contend with their enemies. Six of them he slew with his sling and stones; their leader he slew with his sword. Others came to contend with him and each lost his arm to the sword of Ammon.

A Hollywood movie might end at that—the hero having defeated the enemy. There would be a great victory celebration. Ammon would be carried on the shoulders of his fellows. There would be a lot of back slapping and plenty of pizza and root beer—all with Ammon as the center of attention. But scripture isn’t Hollywood and there are yet great lessons to be learned.

While his fellow servants go to report to the king, Ammon goes about his duties as a humble servant. When informed that Ammon had gone to prepare the king’s horses and chariot as commanded, King Lamoni was “astonished because of the faithfulness of Ammon.”

As a young man and a young missionary, my attentions were drawn to Ammon’s great feat at the waters of Sebus. As a more mature priesthood leader, I have become ever more appreciative of what happened AFTER the waters of Sebus.  Ammon’s focus on his stewardship earned him remarkable praise from the king in verse 9 of Alma chapter 18. “Surely there has not been any servant among all my servants that has been so faithful as this man; for even he doth remember all my commandments to execute them.”

In the story of Ammon, we learn what it means to be trustworthy.  Ammon was indeed a Master Teacher as evidenced by the lesson he teaches King Lamoni and the converting power with which it is taught. He used inspired questions, he listened, and he followed the spirit.  Ammon demonstrated his Master Planning skills when confronted with a deadly challenge which he turned to eternal opportunity. Ammon was a Master Finder expanding his teaching pool to include all the king’s household, his people, and even his very hantai father and his kingdom. The evidences of Ammon as a follower of the Master are abundant in the story. He was clean, Alma 17:3; he was determined, Alma 17:31; he was united with his fellow servants, Alma 17:32; he was faithful, Alma 18:2,9,10; he was obedient, Alma 18:9-10.

In Elder Holland’s blessing on our mission, he promised a new chapter of higher achievement and greater success. He also reminds us that, “such success can only come from heaven.” Elders and Sisters, if we are to have part in the success, we MUST tap the powers of heaven. Elder Holland’s blessing continued with ways we can do that.  We can “honor Him, give praise to Him, vow to be clean and worthy, and diligently labor.” Personally, I have sought guidance from the spirit for ways that I can follow Elder Holland’s council and, thereby, “deserve success”. I have made commitments to our Heavenly Father and asked for His help to become a more Trustworthy missionary.

I love you and pray for you each day.

President Baird

The Love of a Sister

Story by Elder Ryan Horne

It all started when we asked the bishop for names of less-active members he wanted us to visit.  He gave to us the name of Maria, a member from Peru with health problems, and we went to give her a visit.

Maria had come to church about once in the five months that I had been in the area (Yokkaichi).  We asked her what we could do to help her in her situation.  She said, “I want you to call my sister.”  Apparently her sister had gone less active in Japan right after her baptism, and may not have been confirmed a member. 

I was a little daunted by the idea of calling someone who only spoke Spanish, because I don’t know Spanish.  But I tried to call, and she was thrilled!  She invited us over to her house and her two children were delighted to see us.  This mom said her only desire was to see her family get baptized, by water and by fire.  Over the next few weeks her two children, Yumiko and Miguel, learned about the Restoration, the priesthood, baptism, and other important things.  They loved it. 

A couple of months later, after a flurry of Elva’s health problems, their father’s heart became soft.  We had some really powerful lessons.  They were able to enter the waters of baptism and fulfill their mother’s dream.

From left, Yumiko, Elder Horne, Elder Gathier, Miguel.
Elva, their mom, in front.

Hard to Say Goodbye/March 2012 Finishers

How we love our missionaries!  How we hate to see them go.  But we know they have matured, in testimony and strength of character, in ability to study and serve.  We send them off with confidence in their ability to move forward and do great things. 

Seated left to right: Eckman, Ogaki, Otahara, Nelson, Shimajiri
Standing: Imaizumi, Wynn, Tsutamori, President and Sister Baird, Sis. Masuda, Takahashi, and Momose

Sister Iyo Masuda is from Hokkaido, Japan.  One elder said she has a great talent to help people become better.  Do sister missionaries get any more beautiful than this?

Sister Iyo Masuda. Yosh!

Elder Justin Eckman went home to St. Anthony, Idaho. Elder Eckman is very patriotic and loves his country.  He is funny, a great cook, (his cakes are in high demand) and when he is teaching, he makes things easy to understand.

Elder Eckman with Nagoya Castle in background.

Elder Nelson, left, with Elder Berrett
See Elder Nelson again below.  He's an angel.

Elder William Nelson loves many sports and playing the guitar. He has dreams to be an accountant and run his own business after his mission. One of his former companions siad that Elder Nelson has a dry sense of humor that makes everyone laugh hard.  And if there is a problem somewhere, he is the one you can trust to go fix it. He loves to serve others.  Another missionary said, "He is one of my favorite people ever."

Elder Masashi Imaizumi is from Chiba, Japan.  He can be quiet, but he is easy to get along with.  He is a good worker, and has a great sense of humor.  It's easy to make him laugh.  He thinks things through and can be an effective teacher.  He loved working with less active members.

Elder Momose also plays piano.

Elder Yasuaki Momose enjoys watching movies and painting pictures.  He wants to become an architect and design houses.  He was baptized just a year before his mission.  He is sincere and tender.  He is from Hokkaido, Japan.

Elder Shunya Ogaki is from Hyougo, Japan.  He enjoys doing puzzles and likes to do things to be healthy.  Even thought he may look slender, he is very strong, according to one of his missionary friends.

Elder Ogaki is quick to notice when he can serve.

One of Elder Otahara's former companion said that Elder Otahara is great with kids, and he enjoys riding his bike.  He teaches the Gospel simply, to the understanding of others.  He is also good with words.

Elder Otahara is the second angel from left.  He is with
Sister Masuda, Elder Nelson, and Elder Takahashi

Elder Shimijiri enjoys sports, especially basketball and track. He received a lesson about the church when he was 19, but later he received the lesson again and joined the Church at 23 years old.  He knows someone is waiting for this gospel and is anxious to share the it with others.

Elder Shimijiri (left) with Ken, Keiko, and Rua Edo, and Elder Kervinen

Elder Shimijiri

Is this Elder Takahishi's goal or accomplishment?

Elder Yusuke Takahashi comes from Saitama, Japan.  He hopes someday to work in an international setting.  Sports make him happy, and he likes to dance.  He is courageous and says rugby made his strong.  His bishop described him as humble and kind.

Elder Wynn

Elder Wynn is second from left.  Other missionaries from left:
Elder Curtis, Elder Flint, Sister Inoue, and Sister Kumagai.

Don't missionaries look great when they are serving!

Elder Mikel Wynn comes from Salem, Oregon, and his mother is from Japan.  He has the advantage of having lived in Japan as a young child, so he had a start on the language. He enjoys writing and music.  His whole family plays several instruments.  He is also interested in aviation and hopes to become a flight instructor.

Mutual Regard

Elder Shimon Tsutamori’s hero is his father.  He wants to be like him—a hard worker and always serving family and church.  He dreams of being able to help those in trouble.