Splash!

Johana & Bolivia....we finally baptized some sisters!

Hello to everyone I love!! I can't believe it's August already. I want summer to last forever here! It was an amazing week in Federal Way but I really do miss air conditioning.

The biggest highlight of the week and of the summer so far was the baptism of Johana and Bolivia this past Thursday night. All missionaries will tell you that baptisms are great (because they are) but wow was this one just amazing!! The Spirit was almost tangible during both their baptisms and confirmations. Their cousin Rafael, a member of 4 months, baptized them and it was really special to see their family together all in white. We had almost the entire branch there with 5 non-member friends and had the chance to share the message of the Restoration while they changed clothes. It was a really special night!! The Dumas Bay branch really feels like home to me and we were all so happy to welcome Bolivia and Johana into the family. 

We had lots of great things happen this week along with the baptism and taught tons of lessons! Our cute family is doing awesome and we taught them all about temples. They want to go visit the temple with us soon! Please keep praying that their work schedules continue to let us teach them and help them get baptized this month!! It would be much appreciated:)

We finished the month with our July Mission Leadership Council and it was awesome! We always receive such great guidance from President and Sister Beardall and we are all excited for the month of August. We even have a special in-person mission tour this week with President Dallin H. Oaks of the First Presidency and saying that I'm excited is a total understatement. Stay tuned for how that went next week!! 

Something that President Beardall shared with us at MLC was the importance of "matching the message." It was the idea that us as missionaries need to represent the Gospel in how we look and act but also spiritually. We need to fully live the Gospel of Jesus Chrsut in order to testify and teach of its power. This hit me hard as I've come to realize that the happiest I've ever been is when I'm fully and confidently living the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Serving a mission has completely changed my life in this aspect and it's such a privilege to represent the Savior. As members of the church in these latter days our biggest responsibility is to match the message of the gospel and be an example to all. All of you have been that example to me and I'll always be grateful for that! This Gospel is a gospel of joy. 

I love you guys tons!! Thank you for all the support and prayers. Have an amazing week and keep enjoying your summer!!

Sending love from sunny Seattle!

Difícil es bueno. 

Xoxox Hermana Christensen

Best friends of Federal Way

Break the fast with Rafael