Welcome Home

Good Morning!

It has been a blast from the past working in St. George again, especially in the Young Single Adult 1st Stake! For those who aren't aware, I spent 3 months from November to January in this same area, (already the longest I've stayed in one spot) and I'm set to be here another 5 weeks! I've reunited with so many of my friends, they feel just like family. 

One thing that has impressed me is how green St. George is. Remember all that snow we got in Richfield? Turns out when that was happening, it was also raining in St. George! So now all the mountains are a beautiful combination of red rock and green plants. It was a change in scenery heading down South, but I have not been disappointed. 

A brief(ish) comment about the work, and my new companion: Elder Shipp is fantastic! He is learning a lot right now, but I have never failed to be impressed! He is driven and focused, obedient and diligent. I could say more, but I will stop there. This will be an exciting transfer! We are currently teaching 21 people, and I'd say 15 of them are progressing fairly well. We have three friends preparing for baptism, one this weekend! I'm excited. Also, two of my friends in Richfield were baptized last weekend; Jontay and Tristan. I am proud of them and their desire to be baptized and follow their Savior's example.

Speaking of example, one of the most powerful examples of the Savior are our modern prophets and apostles. They are directed by God and have taught me much about the gospel. On Saturday Elder Soares, one of the Apostles, came to a Devotional for students at Utah Tech. I was in attendance and had the opportunity to shake his hand. That was an experience that still feels like a dream! We also have an Apostle, Elder Renlund, coming to visit the mission in May. Stay tuned!

Something Elder Soares counseled us was to keep a strong connection with God, because He is the source of all light and truth. I've pondered on what it's like to feel so welcomed by the friends I've made in the YSA 1st Stake, and how much more joy I'll feel to be welcomed Home by my Father in Heaven. 

For those who aren't tracking the time as well as me, here's a brief update on my missionary timeline. The Sisters who were with me at the Missionary Training Center have all returned home now. That alone is surprising, as it usually means an Elder has about 6 months left. In contrast, I have another year or so left in my mission. It's a glorious time for my friends who have returned home, and a glorious time to be a missionary now. 

One of the things I've learned is that the invitation to return home to our Father in Heaven is always open. We have a Savior because God expected us all to fall short. He expected our life adventures to end; not only with the certainty of physical death, but as various phases of life come to pass, and begin to pass. One day I will no longer be a missionary. That will be a day of complicated emotions for sure, but I am comforted knowing that I will see the friends I've made again someday, and that God knows what is best. I can trust His wisdom and follow His plan, because I know He won't lead me astray. 

Life is an adventure for a reason. But one day, when all is said and done, I hope to stand before my Lord and hear Him say; "Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Welcome Home." 

The following scripture reflects the reality of my mission.

Alma 29:10 And behold, when I see many of my brethren truly penitent, and coming to the Lord their God, then is my soul filled with joy; then do I remember what the Lord has done for me, yea, even that he hath heard my prayer; yea, then do I remember his merciful arm which he extended towards me.

God has blessed me with opportunities to preach His word. God has blessed Southern Utah with a field that is very white, prepared for the harvest. Every experience of mine seeking friends to teach, and inviting them to change, has strengthened my own testimony and foundation on the Savior. I am eager for the time I have left, and intend to fulfill it to the best of my abilities. 

Thank you so much for your shining examples! I am grateful for the thoughts and prayers you send my way. They are loved, needed, and have supported me through this wonderful journey. I love you all!

- Elder Williams

Mailing Address:
881 South River Road
St. George, Utah 84790

Pictures:
1. Transfer Van Chaos.
2. Elder Mason!
3. #Utahsunset
4. This picture of the St. George Temple has been replicated on so many different occasions throughout my mission. It is beautiful as ever. Can't wait for the open house dates!
5. See #3^
6. I'm back! 
7. See #6^
8. The "Council" portion of Mission Leadership Council.
9. The Mission Leadership Council.
10. Elder Shipp and myself.
11. Tristan's Baptism!
12. Jontay's Baptism!














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