Phone Call Home: Monday, January 10, 2022

Notice the circle of 'buffering'

Elder Garcia was up and at them today and ready to fill me in on all the things from this past week. We had a little difficulty staying connected the whole time so when the buffering would kick us out, he would try to call back. Needless to say, Kpalime is a tricky spot to try and have a solid consistent phone call from. :) 

Some highlights this week:
- Elder Garcia is anticipating transfers next week. He was told when he headed back to Kpalime that it would last only one transfer so he is hoping that that is indeed the case. He has enjoyed his time being back but he is hopeful for something new.
- The baptism they had with Frere Stanley was awesome! They went into the service a little wary because the water had stopped working but somehow they were able to get the font filled and his baptism was a success. This gentleman has been ready since the first time Elder Garcia was in Kpalime so to have his day take place I am certain was just more than he could ever dreamed of.
- Elder Garcia feels excited about where Kpalime looks to be headed. He said it is growing and it so great to see how many people are coming to church and sharing their love of the Gospel with those around them. He says that maybe by the end of the year they will actually have their first ward!
- Elder Garcia was able to meet with the Senior Couple and have lunch with them. They were planning and working together to see how they can all work with the members there and help the church to grow. Well, Senior Jeffcoat made some lunch for the missionaries as well but when she went to grab tortillas so they could start eating she realized she had forgotten them. No worries! Pringles to the rescue! Elder Garcia laughed pretty good at that but said it worked out and lunch went really well.
- Elder Garcia feels like he is finally starting to lose his 'rice cheeks' that showed up after he arrived in Africa. :) He has plenty of time still yet so he needs not worry but I imagine that if I were in his shoes I would be anxiously looking every single morning if I could too. 

Looking forward to seeing where Elder Garcia will be next and what President Proudfoot and the Lord have in store for him. In the meantime, I pray you always remember the excitement that Frere Stanley had on his baptism day. I pray that you will remember that being a member of THIS Church and having the blessings and promises that Heavenly Father has waiting for us is the best anything we could possibly need and/or want in our lifetime. Keep up the good work. Talk again next week.

Love you for forever,
Mom