To the Missionaries of the Great Texas Houston Mission,
This last week I had the opportunity to teach a woman along with the missionaries in their area. We read from the Book of Mormon together and I was reminded of a principle that I don't know if we have taught as effectively as we should. In PMG, we read that:
"Many investigators either do not read the Book of Mormon or do not understand what they read. Those who do not read or understand the Book of Mormon will have difficulty receiving a witness that it is true." (PMG p.110)
Please note that while it is important that investigators (and members for that matter) read the Book of Mormon, it is equally important that they understand. If we cannot insure that they are reading AND understanding, we limit the power that is available to them from The Book of Mormon to both enlighten their minds and change their hearts.
Elders and Sisters, we must take the time with EVERY investigator to read with them and check for their understanding. When you read, stop regularly (even after every verse if necessary) to ask questions about what was read and what they understand it to mean. By so doing, you will help them grow in their confidence that they can understand and it will serve to increase their motivation to read.
Last night at our Mission President's fireside, we listened to one recent convert tell about how he never felt he could understand "religious books" until his missionaries read with him and helped him understand what he was reading. As he was able to understand 1 Ne 8 and how it applied to him, he felt a desire grow within him to do what was necessary to "make it to the tree."
We testify to you that as we help each investigator read AND understand, we will see them become filled with light which will have a transforming effect on them and lead them to greater hope and happiness. Schedule time to read with them. Give them assignments before each visit that are meaningful both in terms of length and application and then spend enough time to talk about what was read and what it means. Miracles will take place and we will unleash the power of The Book of Mormon in the hearts and minds of those we teach.
We love you!
Love,
President and Sister Mortensen
We attended District Meeting in the Huntsville District last Friday. It was so great to be with the wonderful missionaries in that area. Elder Jones lead an inspiring meeting as we learned more about the the power of the Book of Mormon.
 |
| Planning for investigators to have a great experience at church |
 |
| Elder Jones training his district. |
 |
| Hunstville District |
 |
| Elder Tweedie and Elder Berry at the Ward Trunk R Treat |
We held a Mission President's "Why I Believe" Fireside last night in the College Station Stake. It was a Spirit filled fireside with testimonies from recent converts and beautiful music from our missionaries. What a blessing for all who attended! Here are some picture taken that night.
