Turku (First Group Email)

A beautiful church near our bus stop.  A tender mercy this week was hearing the bells!

Hello Everyone! I hope all is well and that everyone got the chance to watch General Conference! I don't have much time but I just wanted to say that I know this Church is true! Hearing the words of the Prophets and apostles is the most amazing thing. Because God loves us, He has given us a plan and everything in that plan is perfect. But sadly we are not. I have definitely felt my inadequacies this week as I arrived in Finland and had to adjust to an entirely different but beautiful culture! 

The big thing I have seen and learned this week has been to always be real with yourself and to understand that you are not perfect. As I try and speak this language I learn each time I try that the spirit is there when truth is spoken. I may not say that truth in the right order, or with the correct conjugation or case ending, but it is still truth. I have also learned that the simpler I say something, the more powerful the impact. Saying things like, "God Loves his children" or "He has a plan for you" or "Jesus Christ is our Savior and Redeemer." while simple, hold the most power.

I want to invite you all to share simply.  Don't get caught up in the crazy "pinteresty" ways to do something. Share a video, or invite a friend to church. Everyone deserves a chance to be invited, and to have the choice to accept or reject. Be brave my friends :)

That's all the time I have, but I want you all to know I love it here. Finland is beautiful and full of Gods children. I love the weather, the culture, my companion and most importantly I love my Savior Jesus Christ and His Atoning Sacrifice! 

Stay warm and smile :)

Sisar Phipps