Dear readers,

Sister Rowland got the call Saturday night and reported to her new assignment in Hilton Head, SC aka the second best place for her to be besides as my companion. She stayed in the Savanah stake! I'm not the STL for that half of the stake anymore so we won't go on exchanges but we'll see each other at meetings and interviews and MLC. Love that girl. Perhaps the most profound lesson she taught me, though inadvertently, is that of faith and hope. Sister Rowland moves forward with a "PERFECT brightness of hope". She is undismayed, sees setbacks as happy opportunities, and is a solution-seeker. She trusts her Heavenly Father and her Savior and it is evident in her attitudes and actions.

My new companion is Sister Jensen from Utah. She has been on her mission for just about 1 year. I am excited to serve with her! The Pooler Spanish Elders were also white-washed. We got two new elders, English speaking. They are Elder Holzer and Elder Hooley. So.. Lots of change in our district. Which is energizing and makes me feel like a new missionary in really good ways and not awkward ways.

It was a great week here in Pooler, GA!

K is doing really great - we taught her the word of wisdom and she committed to live it.. actually, she already is living it! We also taught T who has opened up to us a ton recently. I finally feel like we are able to help her progress and she is getting to a place where she is comfortable meeting ward members and that's great because having good fellowship is crucial to her progression!

I read a talk from April 2018 conference earlier this week and I've been thinking about it ever since. Given by Bishop Gérald Caussé, the talk is about the body of the church. He poses a question which I have pondered frequently in moments which are alloted mine.

Asked he, "My dear brothers and sisters, are we active in the gospel, or are we merely busy in the Church?"

He continues by inviting us to consider what the Savior would do if we were to attend church with us next Sunday. Far from concerned about straightening chairs or locating visual aids, the Savior would seek out individuals whom He could strengthen and bless. Such should be our focus! - the individual. Bishop Caussé continues, "I promise you that as you strive to be on the Lord’s agenda, nothing will become more important than finding those people you can help and bless."

I challenge you this week to rise to this new level of activity. Pray to know, each day, who you can serve and help that day. Remember that, as Elder Ballard taught, "What matters most is what lasts the longest". And what matters most is Gods precious children. Focus on people and their needs. Be the instrument by which another receives comfort and aid. Help someone along the narrow path leading to salvation. 

Also shout out to Amelia for graduating from high school.... made it by the skin of her teeth. 

Yours,

Sister Gore