Opening the Golden Envelope

After arriving in Rome, President Pickard gave Anziano Toronto a golden envelope
containing the geographic area where he will serve first.

Famiglia Diletta,

As many or all of you have already heard, I have been sent to the beautiful island of Sicily, in the city of Catania. Words can't describe how joyful I am to be in the incredible land of my ancestors, and to be teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to my beloved Italian brothers and sisters.

A few notes before I talk about Catania and the work:

The flight was a nightmare, simply because I couldn't sleep. I took far more than the suggested dose of Benadryl, and closed my eyes, but for the better part of 9 hours, sleep evaded me. All was forgotten however, when I stepped out of the plane onto Italian soil. It truly felt like I was returning home, despite never visiting. We arrived to find Presidente Pickerd waiting for us, along with Sorella Pickerd, Fratello Guercio, and Anziani Rosenburg and Battaglia. The latter are true rockstars... Anziano Rosenburg in many ways reminds me of Simeon, a true testament to his character. Anziano Battaglia defines quiet dignity and humility. Together they provide a powerful 1, 2 AP punch. That day was quite the blur. We toured the temple site, and much of Rome, but the highlight was finding. We were given pass along cards, and a Book of Mormon, and told to talk. Much easier said than done, but it was a blast.

Wednesday passed in the same way, with training and the like, and in the evening we each received our assignments.

Thursday, was travel, and that was about it... The late evening I arrived, met my trainer, Anziano Rodriguez, and had english course, what a blessing that was!

Friday, Saturday and Sunday were true missionary work days, filled with the joy of teaching, finding, and learning.

Investigator highlight of the week:

We are teaching three Indian friends, Sri, Linga, and Rajish, and love doing so. The each speak English, which is much easier for me, and yesterday evening, we invited each of them to pray to know if they should be baptized on March 11th. Each of their faith in Jesus Christ is incredible, and they are building my testimony in leaps and bounds.

The language is tough, and that is putting it mildly. I struggle to follow basic conversations, but know that will come with time! I love trying, and will always continue to do so.

I have no time, and must run to email the president, but I love each of you!

Anziano Toronto