Letter from July 30

Here in Cerro things are great!  I mentioned last week that we had the goal to baptize weekly here in Cerro.  Last Saturday we fasted asking the Lord to help us baptize someone this past weekend.  We had a couple people that were about ready, but they hadn´t made the decision to be baptized yet.  The great news is that during the week we finished Jordan’s preparation and he was baptized on Saturday.  He progressed quickly and was very excited to be baptized.  The best news is that his mom was there at his baptism as well as sacrament meeting the following day.  As I mentioned last week, Jordan´s dad (Isaac) has been a member for many years, but a few years ago he went completely inactive.  Well he is now coming back strong, as well as his son Jordan.  The mom, Susy met with us for the first time yesterday.  It was a very spiritual lesson.  Her dad passed away not too long ago, she mentioned that she has been struggling quite a bit with that.  We explained to her a little bit of the plan of salvation as watched the video ”Together Forever”, which talks about how families can be together forever.  The video really got to her, and she began to cry.  After the video we testified about the plan that God has for our families.  It really is a great plan.  She said that when she felt without a doubt that it was true, she would be baptized.  They aren´t married, but I’m sure that won’t be a huge problem, especially since the bishop wants to help them get married. It’s been a true blessing to see the power of fasting and the progress that Isaac´s family is making.  We finished the month strong here with Elder Norris!  Speaking of, he is heading to Lima tomorrow morning. This is his last day here in the mission field. I have learned a bunch from him and we have enjoyed this time together.  A few members want to invite us to like chicken and pizza since he is heading off tomorrow. I can´t complain.  It will be a little hard to see him leave though, because he has been not only a companion, but a great friend.  As for our area, we have some great people we are teaching. Take care!

Elder Riggs