My week in another language!

This week was a very interesting one!

In the mission we have missionaries who are called to different leadership positions. One of those positions is called a Sister Trainer Leader. My companion and I were called to be one of three sets of sisters called to train all the sisters in the Mesa Mission. We go out on what is called “exchanges” with the other sisters and see how we can help other sisters, and ourselves, to fulfill our purpose which is to invite all people to come unto Christ.

This week was our first set of exchanges. Because of the large number of sisters we get to train we did two days of exchanges in one week! An exchange lasts 24hrs with the sisters. I went out with one set of sisters while my companion went with another. It was odd to have 2 out of 7 days without my companion Sister Avanesjan, but we learned so much during this time.

I am pretty sure that I learned more than those I was with! I really came to understand how important it is to listen to the spirit and to be guided by the truth it brings. Both sets of sisters I served with were actually called Spanish speaking! Now I took 2 years of Spanish in high school and it went in one ear and out the other! It was a very interesting experience to be pretty much immersed in the language for two whole days.

While there was a language barrier, the spirit was still there! I went out first with Hermana Valladares and Hermana Jeppson. They both taught me a LOT about how important it is to make plans and goals. Not only to make these important plans, but to fulfill them. The plans they made were directed by the spirit to guide us to those that the Lord knew we needed to see that day. It was incredible.

With Hermana Valladares and Hermana Jeppson

The second exchange I had with the beautiful Hermana Luna and the fantastic Hermana Hourrutiner. Both native Spanish speakers and amazing sisters! Both have been out on the mission for 8 weeks and are so powerful in their testimonies. I really learned about the importance of listening to the spirit. Most of the time I had no idea what was being said, but when the time came I could still feel the spirit and there were times I was able to testify (in English) about exactly the thing they were saying! Miracle!

With Hermana Luna and Hermana Hourrutiner

It was quite a different feeling for me to be out in a different language. For those who know me you know I have never, ever, had a difficult time speaking to people. This was a life changing experience because for the first time in my life I couldn’t say anything! It was left all to the spirit to help me try and understand and feel the joy and peace that comes from missionary work.