Week 27 - Typhoon Haiyan Hit's the Philippines

Hey everyone!!!

So we've had a little rain over here if you haven't heard haha. Apparently we just went through a super typhoon here which has been pretty devastating to many parts of the Philippines. So many people have died and many areas of the Philippines are in a state of calamity. It's been quite the adventure but don't worry we are all safe here in Hermosa! My companion sister Lariosa is from Bacolad which is in a state of calamity right now and still hasn't heard from her family so that's been pretty hard for her (please pray for them), but she is so strong and we are working hard and doing our best to help the families here in Hermosa. 

Despite the crazy weather this week was one of the best of my mission so far! This week we found 3 new really great investigators and they are so amazing! Their names are Joy, Shania and Martha and they came to church this week and loved it. Joy is loving the Book of Mormon and said to me that she feels something different when she reads it, a peaceful calming feeling that makes her feel happy. She said she is addicted to it and can't put it down at night, haha. She is such an inspiration to me and I can't wait to see her progress even further and become closer to her heavenly father and Jesus Christ. We also had Ohmi and Edrei Robles at church this week and they are so excited for their baptism on November 24th! They always talk about it when we come over and hug us and kiss us and tell us their experiences and readings in the Book of Mormon. I have grown to love their family so so much and I can not wait to see them enter into the waters of baptism to begin their journey back to our Heavenly Father. They are just the nicest family and they will truly always have a place in my heart. Then on top of that Anthony (our less active who hasn't been to church in 5 years) came to church again this sunday! He talked to us later and said that he is so grateful for us, and the day that we knocked on his door. At first he would barely talk to us but now we are great friends and we love talking about the gospel and how it helps us in our lives. He told me that many missionaries have come and gone but he could really feel our love for him and he is glad that we didn't give up on him. I told him of course we won't give up on you! kahit matigas and ulo nyo (even if you have a hard head sometimes) haha he just laughed and said totoo po yan (that is true). We are so close to him and his family and I almost cried when he shook my hand and told me I never have to worry about him because he will never leave the church again, it is true and the only way to receive true happiness :) 

I seriously love being a missionary!!! The people I meet, the lives ive seen change, the hearts that have been softened  make every moment worth it. I know God lives, he loves each and every one of us and is aware of our struggles and trials. He will help us if we just let him and put our trust in him. I love you all so much and hope you are safe and happy :)

love always,

sister Lowe