We love you Hunter (H-Dog). Happy Birthday!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas from Korea
Elder Britsch with Santa
Elder Britsch, Pres. Burton, and Elder WimmerDear fam,
Its Christmas day eve and I only have a few minutes to write, the rest I will have to say when we talk tomorrow or in the next email. I loved your presents. Thankyou for the cards and the digital messages. hearing your voices and encouragement means much more than any physical gifts. The korea book is great, but I actually just bought the same one here - 2 weeks ago. so I will sell my old one to another missionary. Last night I had a christmas party with the ward. We had 3 investigators come. It was neat to see this side of our ward. I played God and another character in a primary play. I had to speak korean in a low voice - it was fun. They even put makeup on us - I refused but had no choice - I think my companion enjoyed it though :). I will talk to u tomorrow as planned. I call the home phone. Can't wait.
Love,
Elder Britsch
Friday, December 19, 2008
Merry Christmas from the Schills
Send your own ElfYourself eCards
Jeff put our heads on these elves, and it is so funny. The picture of Jeff in glasses is of when he was a cop for halloween
Jeff put our heads on these elves, and it is so funny. The picture of Jeff in glasses is of when he was a cop for halloween
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Letter from Elder Britsch Dec. 18th, 2008
Hi, Dec. 18th, 2008
Another week has flown by. The weather is still cold with some rain. Our area is doing very well. We’ve started teaching another family in the southern area of our area – the suburbs. It’s called the country by the rich people in our area who retreat there on weekends, but it still very expensive. The family is living in humble circumstances. The apartment (including kitchen and 4 inhabitants) is close to the size of a double bed hotel room. We sat on the floor and taught. They feed us the whole time – a very kind gesture of respect. We appreciate it, but are full and beyond. I can hardly walk after having my legs crossed Indian style for 2 hours, but I love the family. The 8 year old is very hyper and runs around naked as we teach. The mom is a poet and gave us a signed book which has 10 of her poems – another gesture of kindness. The people in the southern part are much kinder and approachable. The father is well read in the bible and actually uses it to back up what we say comes out of the book of Mormon. The parents said that we are angels sent to them. The 20 year old son sits at the computer the whole time – he wants to be a progammer. I’ve been given a part in our Christmas party program. I will play god and read 6 lines in a deep Korean voice. It should be fun. Many of the other people we teach are in their 20’s. All seem to be very bright. Many attend what seems to be one of the best universities in Korea. During our English program time, I am amazed at the genius minds of these people. One of the kids will major in philosophy and writes essays in his free time. He is amazed that we are learning Korean - he says “It’s not even an essential language.” He compared us to Christ’s apostles. We told him we try to live like Christ but are not worthy of such a statement. One of the girls is studying Chinese Studies and is fluent in 3-4 languages. She is very quick. We are questioned on everything we teach, but she seems to like it. She feels that all religions are true. We explained that all have truth but only one has all of the truth and is God’s church. Many people are very impressed that we do not get paid. We lost many investigators do to false statements and pressure from their preachers or ministers. The investigator will even admit that they believe that what we are saying but just can’t join our church because of family pressure. It is very heart breaking. Church is very much a business here, and many of the people to do not like it. We bring a very different religion, free from the desire for money or status. It is God’s church, not mans’.
One man we are teaching is 44 yrs old, divorced and studying American studies in a grad. program. He is very well read in our religion. He has no religion b/c he has never agreed with other Christian faiths description of the plan and God. He felt God is not fair if things are so black and white with heaven and hell. He loved the plan that we taught him. He told me how he’s read about Brigham Young and the exodus of the saints. He felt very bad that such persecution had existed in a country that proclaims religious freedom. He was very impressed that we held to our beliefs, despite the persecution. He’s also read about our social and charity efforts in America; specifically mentioning our work in New Orleans after the hurricane. He read about it in Time magazine. He also said he read that Pres. Bush thinks favorably of our church. I was surprised that he had read so much. It goes to show that our actions are seen by many people. Knowing that our stake was apart of these clean up efforts gives chills to my spine. This is God’s church. Even someone thousands of miles away, in Korea, has read about our work. The favorable impression that he has of the church comes a lot from the efforts of the members of my home stake.
We are a light on a hill, our light shall not be hid, but shall be for all to see and come unto. He is very interested in our church. Our actions each and everyday are so noticed, even in distant lands. Thank you to all the church members who have contributed time and money to these welfare and charitable efforts. I love you all. Thanks for your letters and prayers. Remember, people are searching for truth. After all, Righteousness is happiness. And who doesn’t want to be happy?
Love,Elder Britsch
Another week has flown by. The weather is still cold with some rain. Our area is doing very well. We’ve started teaching another family in the southern area of our area – the suburbs. It’s called the country by the rich people in our area who retreat there on weekends, but it still very expensive. The family is living in humble circumstances. The apartment (including kitchen and 4 inhabitants) is close to the size of a double bed hotel room. We sat on the floor and taught. They feed us the whole time – a very kind gesture of respect. We appreciate it, but are full and beyond. I can hardly walk after having my legs crossed Indian style for 2 hours, but I love the family. The 8 year old is very hyper and runs around naked as we teach. The mom is a poet and gave us a signed book which has 10 of her poems – another gesture of kindness. The people in the southern part are much kinder and approachable. The father is well read in the bible and actually uses it to back up what we say comes out of the book of Mormon. The parents said that we are angels sent to them. The 20 year old son sits at the computer the whole time – he wants to be a progammer. I’ve been given a part in our Christmas party program. I will play god and read 6 lines in a deep Korean voice. It should be fun. Many of the other people we teach are in their 20’s. All seem to be very bright. Many attend what seems to be one of the best universities in Korea. During our English program time, I am amazed at the genius minds of these people. One of the kids will major in philosophy and writes essays in his free time. He is amazed that we are learning Korean - he says “It’s not even an essential language.” He compared us to Christ’s apostles. We told him we try to live like Christ but are not worthy of such a statement. One of the girls is studying Chinese Studies and is fluent in 3-4 languages. She is very quick. We are questioned on everything we teach, but she seems to like it. She feels that all religions are true. We explained that all have truth but only one has all of the truth and is God’s church. Many people are very impressed that we do not get paid. We lost many investigators do to false statements and pressure from their preachers or ministers. The investigator will even admit that they believe that what we are saying but just can’t join our church because of family pressure. It is very heart breaking. Church is very much a business here, and many of the people to do not like it. We bring a very different religion, free from the desire for money or status. It is God’s church, not mans’.
One man we are teaching is 44 yrs old, divorced and studying American studies in a grad. program. He is very well read in our religion. He has no religion b/c he has never agreed with other Christian faiths description of the plan and God. He felt God is not fair if things are so black and white with heaven and hell. He loved the plan that we taught him. He told me how he’s read about Brigham Young and the exodus of the saints. He felt very bad that such persecution had existed in a country that proclaims religious freedom. He was very impressed that we held to our beliefs, despite the persecution. He’s also read about our social and charity efforts in America; specifically mentioning our work in New Orleans after the hurricane. He read about it in Time magazine. He also said he read that Pres. Bush thinks favorably of our church. I was surprised that he had read so much. It goes to show that our actions are seen by many people. Knowing that our stake was apart of these clean up efforts gives chills to my spine. This is God’s church. Even someone thousands of miles away, in Korea, has read about our work. The favorable impression that he has of the church comes a lot from the efforts of the members of my home stake.
We are a light on a hill, our light shall not be hid, but shall be for all to see and come unto. He is very interested in our church. Our actions each and everyday are so noticed, even in distant lands. Thank you to all the church members who have contributed time and money to these welfare and charitable efforts. I love you all. Thanks for your letters and prayers. Remember, people are searching for truth. After all, Righteousness is happiness. And who doesn’t want to be happy?
Love,Elder Britsch
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Letter from Elder Britsch Dec. 10th, 2008
Dear All,
Korea is still great and getting colder. Last Saturday and Sunday it snowed all-day. It is rare, especially in December. The big flakes and white streets were a gorgeous site, but it had all passed by Sunday night. The weather goes through 4 days cycles of frigid and cold. The weather’s been a little colder than the usual. Many days it is in the low teens. A few days it was in the low single digits. The Siberian winds are deadly (we call them the death winds). Going straight through your body to your bones. Dropping the temp another ten degrees. Despite the weather, we are in good spirits. I just have to smile and laugh every time the wind picks up around a corner. People seem to be less willing to listen to our message in these circumstances, but we just work harder and we are always blessed to find someone. My companion says that this is the hardest place he has worked in because so many of our appointments fall through because of their busy schedules, fake numbers, or other reasons, and therefore we do more finding people than is typical. The Korean culture is very good about keeping commitments, but he says in this area, commitments are often broken. All in all, it is great. We are finding people. The other night we taught a college age guy and he promised to live the word of wisdom with no excuses and without additional explanation. He said wanted to be healthy and to be a holy man. I was surprised how easily he accepted God’s health code. Drinking is a huge social pressure and activity for businessman here. They use it as a way to build associations and get promotions. Almost everyday, employees will leave work to go drink for a few hours. Smoking is also more acceptable here. However, when we explain the importance of obedience to god’s commandments, people are very willing to live it. Many small miracles happen throughout our days. As we try to recognize these miracles in our live we see that they are happening everyday. It is so cool to see the happiness that comes into someone’s life as we provide an atmosphere where they can feel the holy ghost and we can teach them about the truths that god has restored to the earth. Our mission president has said the apostles (4 of whom have visited in the last year) have said that the blood of Israel flows strongly in the hearts of these people. The Korean people are great people. I will send some pics by mail to be posted. A few random tidbits. -I saw a Buddhist monk the other day.-I talked to a man from sudan.- we introduced ourselves to a group of Chinese businessmen.- I talked to a Buddhist man at a bus stop, and we compared our beliefs.- We’ve talked to a lot of Koreans who have learned English in Australia. - We’ve spoke to a few soldiers home on a weekend leave, none of them have liked the army. Korean men must serve in the army for 2 years. My roommate served in the army and is now on a mission – which means he will have 4yrs of service by the end. You can see a big difference in the maturity of levels of those who have served in the army and those who have not.Well, my time is up. I love you all. I hope you are enjoying the Christmas season.
Love,
Elder Britsch
Korea is still great and getting colder. Last Saturday and Sunday it snowed all-day. It is rare, especially in December. The big flakes and white streets were a gorgeous site, but it had all passed by Sunday night. The weather goes through 4 days cycles of frigid and cold. The weather’s been a little colder than the usual. Many days it is in the low teens. A few days it was in the low single digits. The Siberian winds are deadly (we call them the death winds). Going straight through your body to your bones. Dropping the temp another ten degrees. Despite the weather, we are in good spirits. I just have to smile and laugh every time the wind picks up around a corner. People seem to be less willing to listen to our message in these circumstances, but we just work harder and we are always blessed to find someone. My companion says that this is the hardest place he has worked in because so many of our appointments fall through because of their busy schedules, fake numbers, or other reasons, and therefore we do more finding people than is typical. The Korean culture is very good about keeping commitments, but he says in this area, commitments are often broken. All in all, it is great. We are finding people. The other night we taught a college age guy and he promised to live the word of wisdom with no excuses and without additional explanation. He said wanted to be healthy and to be a holy man. I was surprised how easily he accepted God’s health code. Drinking is a huge social pressure and activity for businessman here. They use it as a way to build associations and get promotions. Almost everyday, employees will leave work to go drink for a few hours. Smoking is also more acceptable here. However, when we explain the importance of obedience to god’s commandments, people are very willing to live it. Many small miracles happen throughout our days. As we try to recognize these miracles in our live we see that they are happening everyday. It is so cool to see the happiness that comes into someone’s life as we provide an atmosphere where they can feel the holy ghost and we can teach them about the truths that god has restored to the earth. Our mission president has said the apostles (4 of whom have visited in the last year) have said that the blood of Israel flows strongly in the hearts of these people. The Korean people are great people. I will send some pics by mail to be posted. A few random tidbits. -I saw a Buddhist monk the other day.-I talked to a man from sudan.- we introduced ourselves to a group of Chinese businessmen.- I talked to a Buddhist man at a bus stop, and we compared our beliefs.- We’ve talked to a lot of Koreans who have learned English in Australia. - We’ve spoke to a few soldiers home on a weekend leave, none of them have liked the army. Korean men must serve in the army for 2 years. My roommate served in the army and is now on a mission – which means he will have 4yrs of service by the end. You can see a big difference in the maturity of levels of those who have served in the army and those who have not.Well, my time is up. I love you all. I hope you are enjoying the Christmas season.
Love,
Elder Britsch
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Elder Britsch with Companion and Mission President
Elder Britsch with companion Elder Wimmer and Pres. and Sis. Burton
Elder Britsch's contact info
Here are Elder Britsch's Contact imformation:
For letters his address is:
Elder Carl McKay Britsch
Korea Seoul West Mission
Song Pa PO Box 31
Seoul Korea 138 - 600
For packages:
Elder Carl McKay Britsch
Korea Seoul West Mission
24-1 Ogeum-dong
Songpa-gu
Seoul-si
Seoul-jikhalsi 138-130
To write him an email his Email Address is elderbritsch@myldsmail.com
You can also send letters through Dearelder.com and they will mail the letter for you.
His PDay is on Thursdays
For letters his address is:
Elder Carl McKay Britsch
Korea Seoul West Mission
Song Pa PO Box 31
Seoul Korea 138 - 600
For packages:
Elder Carl McKay Britsch
Korea Seoul West Mission
24-1 Ogeum-dong
Songpa-gu
Seoul-si
Seoul-jikhalsi 138-130
To write him an email his Email Address is elderbritsch@myldsmail.com
You can also send letters through Dearelder.com and they will mail the letter for you.
His PDay is on Thursdays
Letter from Korea Dec. 4th, 2008
Hey everyone!
I’ve now served on my first area for a whole week. We have been extremely busy. Thank you for your email and letters. I don’t know how to begin recapping the week. We are serving in an incredibly rich area. Koreans dress my the latest fashions and always look their best. And in our area it is common to see Armani, prada, Gucci, etc.. on guys and girls. Whether rich or poor the people look their best. I have seen about a dozen Bentleys, an Aston martin, hundreds of Mercedes; and Lambo and Ferraris dealerships are in our area. It is also very fascinating. Although this is not the norm, the Korean people as a whole are a very clean, sophisticated, polite, handsome people. English is so important to them. The government may soon require english for most jobs. Due to this, we teach English a few times a week and get most of our investigators through a program called 30/30 – 30 mins of english (pronunciation, and free talking) and then 30 mins of our gospel message. Furthermore, I have been able to teach a lot in english – which is good because I want to help but bad because my Korean is not being practiced as often. My new ward consists of 30-60 people, mostly retired. Our bishop is a retired nuclear engineer and is currently a ceo (multi-millionaire) . He bought us burger king on sat night. The ward has been sleepy on missionary work but the bishop gave an hour long talk about in our combined meeting on Sunday. He seems to have a new invigoration with our arrival. It helps that my companion was an AP, he gets a lot of respect from the members. Sunday was also the primary program. The kids are so cute. (my companion was forced by the bishop to take pics during the program- he tried to say no) There is one young man in the ward and maybe 2 young women. I sat with a Japanese man who has an interpreter who translates to english for him, in sacrament meeting – so I actually got to understand it. Another blessing. My companion told me that he was expecting to stay in the office for his last 2 transfers. However, Pres. Burton woke up one night from his sleep and had the distinct impression that Elder Wimmer needed to train someone and got to kam-nong (our area). So he became my trainer. And we are whitewashing one of the dreaded places to go in the mission. I really don't see why it is so dreaded but maybe thats just because i have a succesful companion and we have been blessed by the Lord. We now have a number of investigators and a likely baptism (s)before Christmas. We feel very blessed. A few events from the week:- we saw 2 car accidents in one hour right by our church. The church is in a hard to find spot nestled on a hill between narrow one lane roads, with no stop signs or lights. Korean driving does not include following many laws anyway. Red lights are more for show. We walk the hill atleast 5 times daily as we meet people at the subway station for appointments and show them how to get to the church so we can teach them english and the gospel. - the church has one toilet but it has a heated seat and built in buo de (however you spell that crazy French word ). Great after the 30 degree rainy weather.- I like the food, though I admit kimchi for every meal is hard. Most of it is spicy but bearable. The hardest thing is actually sitting on the floor. I have uttered many silent prayers during the 1 1/2 – 2 hr meals with my legs crossed. I am stretching often. A few people have asked if im ok when I fail to hide my pain as I stand up very slowly so I don’t fall over. I’ve also dropped slippery noodles in my lap using chopsticks – the members laugh.
- I found out that our roommate/d.l. elder hatch saw someone get cut in half by the subway. After one of the yearly tests that decide your future, many college age suicides occur. Many by jumping on the tracks. He witnessed one of these deaths. He has been having nightmares for the last 4 months. Very sad.
- Mcdonalds delivers, and no tipping in korea.- the best mall in asia is in our area but we are not allowed in it for obvious reasons.- many of the sidewalks in our area are made out of track rubber for running and walking. They replace them every year – miles of it.
-I was contacting people (in Korean) and ended up talking to a college age kid who didn’t speak much english but told me that he could meet anytime and anywhere - this answer is unheard-of. I gave him a book of mormon and he said he would read it. We are often “punked” 3-4 times a day with people who don’t show for our appointments. Due to the high business positions of many of the ward members, it is hard to get them to lessons.
- We meet people from all over. Yesterday on the subway we spoke to a german man from munich who was visiting seoul by himself for his vacation. He was very interested in the church and we referred him to mormon.org so he can meet with the missionaries in germany.
- Today I went to the temple. It is on a hill in the middle of an urban area. It is cool how quite it is on the grounds. I love korea. I have been very happy. I feel that many of the people are searching for truth but don’t know where to find it. I’ve also noticed that my little language skills are not a big issue in finding people. I have gotten a few contact numbers without understanding most of what is being said. The spirit helps a lot. I also don’t remember the phrases I study until I have used them in my teaching or contacting. Once we are lost in the work and really love it, all else does not matter. The cold, continuous overcast skies and 10’s of miles walked each day go unnoticed. Being able to teach just one person, and see and feel the happiness that the message we share brings to their souls, is enough. How great is the joy in our souls of invite just one seoul unto Christ. And how much greater is our joy as we invite many to receive of the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I wish you all the best. I am well in the great land of korea.
Elder Britsch
I’ve now served on my first area for a whole week. We have been extremely busy. Thank you for your email and letters. I don’t know how to begin recapping the week. We are serving in an incredibly rich area. Koreans dress my the latest fashions and always look their best. And in our area it is common to see Armani, prada, Gucci, etc.. on guys and girls. Whether rich or poor the people look their best. I have seen about a dozen Bentleys, an Aston martin, hundreds of Mercedes; and Lambo and Ferraris dealerships are in our area. It is also very fascinating. Although this is not the norm, the Korean people as a whole are a very clean, sophisticated, polite, handsome people. English is so important to them. The government may soon require english for most jobs. Due to this, we teach English a few times a week and get most of our investigators through a program called 30/30 – 30 mins of english (pronunciation, and free talking) and then 30 mins of our gospel message. Furthermore, I have been able to teach a lot in english – which is good because I want to help but bad because my Korean is not being practiced as often. My new ward consists of 30-60 people, mostly retired. Our bishop is a retired nuclear engineer and is currently a ceo (multi-millionaire) . He bought us burger king on sat night. The ward has been sleepy on missionary work but the bishop gave an hour long talk about in our combined meeting on Sunday. He seems to have a new invigoration with our arrival. It helps that my companion was an AP, he gets a lot of respect from the members. Sunday was also the primary program. The kids are so cute. (my companion was forced by the bishop to take pics during the program- he tried to say no) There is one young man in the ward and maybe 2 young women. I sat with a Japanese man who has an interpreter who translates to english for him, in sacrament meeting – so I actually got to understand it. Another blessing. My companion told me that he was expecting to stay in the office for his last 2 transfers. However, Pres. Burton woke up one night from his sleep and had the distinct impression that Elder Wimmer needed to train someone and got to kam-nong (our area). So he became my trainer. And we are whitewashing one of the dreaded places to go in the mission. I really don't see why it is so dreaded but maybe thats just because i have a succesful companion and we have been blessed by the Lord. We now have a number of investigators and a likely baptism (s)before Christmas. We feel very blessed. A few events from the week:- we saw 2 car accidents in one hour right by our church. The church is in a hard to find spot nestled on a hill between narrow one lane roads, with no stop signs or lights. Korean driving does not include following many laws anyway. Red lights are more for show. We walk the hill atleast 5 times daily as we meet people at the subway station for appointments and show them how to get to the church so we can teach them english and the gospel. - the church has one toilet but it has a heated seat and built in buo de (however you spell that crazy French word ). Great after the 30 degree rainy weather.- I like the food, though I admit kimchi for every meal is hard. Most of it is spicy but bearable. The hardest thing is actually sitting on the floor. I have uttered many silent prayers during the 1 1/2 – 2 hr meals with my legs crossed. I am stretching often. A few people have asked if im ok when I fail to hide my pain as I stand up very slowly so I don’t fall over. I’ve also dropped slippery noodles in my lap using chopsticks – the members laugh.
- I found out that our roommate/d.l. elder hatch saw someone get cut in half by the subway. After one of the yearly tests that decide your future, many college age suicides occur. Many by jumping on the tracks. He witnessed one of these deaths. He has been having nightmares for the last 4 months. Very sad.
- Mcdonalds delivers, and no tipping in korea.- the best mall in asia is in our area but we are not allowed in it for obvious reasons.- many of the sidewalks in our area are made out of track rubber for running and walking. They replace them every year – miles of it.
-I was contacting people (in Korean) and ended up talking to a college age kid who didn’t speak much english but told me that he could meet anytime and anywhere - this answer is unheard-of. I gave him a book of mormon and he said he would read it. We are often “punked” 3-4 times a day with people who don’t show for our appointments. Due to the high business positions of many of the ward members, it is hard to get them to lessons.
- We meet people from all over. Yesterday on the subway we spoke to a german man from munich who was visiting seoul by himself for his vacation. He was very interested in the church and we referred him to mormon.org so he can meet with the missionaries in germany.
- Today I went to the temple. It is on a hill in the middle of an urban area. It is cool how quite it is on the grounds. I love korea. I have been very happy. I feel that many of the people are searching for truth but don’t know where to find it. I’ve also noticed that my little language skills are not a big issue in finding people. I have gotten a few contact numbers without understanding most of what is being said. The spirit helps a lot. I also don’t remember the phrases I study until I have used them in my teaching or contacting. Once we are lost in the work and really love it, all else does not matter. The cold, continuous overcast skies and 10’s of miles walked each day go unnoticed. Being able to teach just one person, and see and feel the happiness that the message we share brings to their souls, is enough. How great is the joy in our souls of invite just one seoul unto Christ. And how much greater is our joy as we invite many to receive of the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I wish you all the best. I am well in the great land of korea.
Elder Britsch
Monday, December 1, 2008
Email from couple in Korea that had Elder Britsch for Thanksgiving Dinner
Greetings from Seoul. We are the Marsden family and we live in Seoul. We had the opportunity to have your missionary in our home for dinner on Thanksgiving. We had a great time getting to know each of them. They are doing well and seem really happy. Elder Britsch had only been in Korea for less than 24 hours, but he seemed to be coping with the jetlag! Please know they are safe, healthy, and happy and doing a wonderful job speaking Korean and sharing the gospel. Our daughter is serving in the Seoul West Mission as well, but we don't get to see her, so we are as excited to get pictures or news about her as you are about your missionary!Have a happy holiday!
love,Dave and Kristie Marsden
Elder Britsch's email on Thanksgiving day - Nov. 27th, 2008
My preparation days are now thursdays, we have an hour to email. 2nd try, I sent a letter already but it may not have worked. I am in Korea! Im sitting in a Korean library with my new trainer, elder wimmer from Hawaii (but he is white). This morning all of the trainers came but they were not assigned until later at the testimony meeting- at the meeting pres. Burton choose our new companions on the spot through inspiration. Last week I prayed and fasted hard for my trainer and I am seeing the blessings. My trainer was just released as an AP. The current AP who served with him, told me that he is a very special missionary. Other elders told me that he has the best Korean in the mission, and perhaps the best missionary. I'm very blessed! I will learn all I can from him. After the meeting we grabbed my luggage and walked to the subway in the rain. The subway was dead silent – Korean manners. We carried my heavy luggage up many stairs – good thing we had gym in the mtc:) . I love it here! So wonderful. Our area is the richest part of seoul, which makes it the richest part of Asia. It is all urban, like Manhattan but bigger and busier. Millions of people. We have a house that is located on a hill, comparable to san fran but asian style. Its one of the nicest houses in the mission. We sleep on yos (small pads) on the floor. Our house is actually not in our area. Tonight we are blessed to be served thanksgiving dinner by the u.s. military ward. Pres Burton and his wife made me feel like family, actually he was very excited that we are distantly related. Sis Burton’s sister lives in the tomball ward, last name Harrison. I'm extremely impressed by them. The food has been good. Spicy. Yesterday we walked by places where you buy squid and other live fish. After we got off the plane, the AP’s took us on a bus for 2 hrs, it was super hot but I had a great conversation with 28 yr old Korean who spoke ok English and is an aviation engineer for asian airlines. He was my first Korean contact. He lived in Idaho for 2 months with an lds family to learn English. I bore my testimony to him and had him read from the book of mormon. Being catholic he was reluctant. He asked about differences in beliefs. I told him about eternal marriage and explained the apostasy. He said he’d read the book of Mormon that I gave him. Unfortunately I did not get his number. However, I think he lives in my area. Maybe I will see him again What a blessing to have my first conversation go so well. It was 1hr and 45 minutes long. The Lord is at my side as long as I'm humble and trust in him. I hope all is well at home and that you are enjoying Thanksgiving. I would love your cooking mom, but I'm in good hands. I have yet to really feel jetlagged due to the spirit and busy schedule. The Korean people are super polite and loving people. I practiced teaching last night with a convert of a year. His American name is “hansome”. It was cool. My Korean needs lots of work but he understood a lot of my message. I feel so blessed. This country is so exciting and fun. Its another world. I feel that with my trainer the work will begin to boom in our area. The last msisionaries had no investigators but my trainer has found 5 in 3 days. The message of happiness that we share is one that all people need. We will pray and work hard to find those of God’s children who are prepared to receive the fullness of the gospel of jesus Christ. I love you all . I love korea. I feel so happy and excited. This is life!
Elder Britsch
Elder Britsch
Elder Britsch's first email from Korea - November 25th, 2008
I am safely in korea. im at the mission home. i placed 2 book of mormons yesterday, one in korean on the bus. i will email more tomorrow. i love you all and hope you are well. elder britsch
Elder Britsch's last letter from the MTC
Dear Fam, Nov. 20th, 2008
I’m very busy preparing to head out. I apologize for not answering your letters personally but time doesn’t exist. I want to mention a few things that did not make it in my email.
1st – I watched “Mountain of the Lord” on Sunday. Some interesting points –
*Utah was going to be named Deseret but Utah was chosen instead. Utah means “top of Mountain”
*Prophets prophecied Zion would be built on/in top of mountain
*Also, temples are mountains of the Lord.
*Some interesting prophetic prophecies answered in Salt lake temple building.
I also watched “Desires of our hearts” A devotional film of Elder Oaks. He said we all face
1. Change
2. Achievement
3. Becoming
Also we had an address about the song “Come Thou Font”. I love the song.
Some interesting things about Korean
_ The bible in Korean is not King James but a Portuguese rooted translation. Baptism is described as a sprinkle not immersion in King James, so it’s not used.
- The word order is nuts but actually makes more sense than English by logic. Math-minded people learn easier than others. Adj. comes before nouns and have clauses within clauses.
- Example – English – The missionaries that will be going to Korea will proselyte.
Korean – Korean going missionaries will proselyte.
Or indirect question
English – Do you know how we can find the truth?
Korean – We truth how find can exist thing know do you?
I am looking for a good root book on Korean. By a root book I mean something that breaks down the words to the root meaning enabling me to find patterns and decifer word meanings instead of pure memorization. I’m finding something on my own, but it’s a tedious process.
Our teacher gave us some culture things to expect and follow:
Dinner appointments:
-Shoes off
-Kneel when asked
-then sit comfortable on pad on floor when asked
-oldest starts eating first
-slurp soup
-Don’t stick chopsticks in rice
-Don’t dip in multiple
-Always finish rice
- no head of table
-never blow nose
-they won’t let you help clean up
-often times women won’t eat with you but will continue preparing food
-Everyone uses same soup bowl
-if good friend, you can swipe things from their chopsticks with yours
-always use two hands to accept anything, bow head too.
- for prayer, you never cross legs
- and many more I will discover, likely to late (smile)
Elder Holland spoke to us on Tuesday night. It was incredible. He and his wife had no notes and gave powerful talks. He talked about converting yourself before anyone else. He was very intense, funny, and clear. His wife testified that He is an apostle of Jesus Christ. She said he is never critical, judgemental, or mean. Earlier that morning I had told my roommates that I thought Elder Holland was coming. We felt very blessed to have him for our last devotional.
I have enjoyed the MTC. This is likely my last letter from here. I have grown immensely. Each day I have become better. I feel ready to leave. I’m excited to apply my learning and help people. Yesterday we took a shuttle to a dermatologist because of a rash on my face. It was very strange to see the outside world. At the Doc.’s the receptionist asked us for help on her Y.W. lesson. I offered some stories and a quote. As we waited to be picked up, 20 or so people walked in the doors as said hello to us. Leaving the MTC, we really realized how much we stand out and what we stand for. An elderly blind lady sat down on the bench we waited on, and talked to us about her time in the Mo Tab. It was cool. I’m actually grateful for the rash because of this opportunity to help and guide people.
We also watched Finding Faith and the Lamb of God. I would highly recommend the family watch both. I’m out of time. Thanks for your love.
Elder Britsch
I’m very busy preparing to head out. I apologize for not answering your letters personally but time doesn’t exist. I want to mention a few things that did not make it in my email.
1st – I watched “Mountain of the Lord” on Sunday. Some interesting points –
*Utah was going to be named Deseret but Utah was chosen instead. Utah means “top of Mountain”
*Prophets prophecied Zion would be built on/in top of mountain
*Also, temples are mountains of the Lord.
*Some interesting prophetic prophecies answered in Salt lake temple building.
I also watched “Desires of our hearts” A devotional film of Elder Oaks. He said we all face
1. Change
2. Achievement
3. Becoming
Also we had an address about the song “Come Thou Font”. I love the song.
Some interesting things about Korean
_ The bible in Korean is not King James but a Portuguese rooted translation. Baptism is described as a sprinkle not immersion in King James, so it’s not used.
- The word order is nuts but actually makes more sense than English by logic. Math-minded people learn easier than others. Adj. comes before nouns and have clauses within clauses.
- Example – English – The missionaries that will be going to Korea will proselyte.
Korean – Korean going missionaries will proselyte.
Or indirect question
English – Do you know how we can find the truth?
Korean – We truth how find can exist thing know do you?
I am looking for a good root book on Korean. By a root book I mean something that breaks down the words to the root meaning enabling me to find patterns and decifer word meanings instead of pure memorization. I’m finding something on my own, but it’s a tedious process.
Our teacher gave us some culture things to expect and follow:
Dinner appointments:
-Shoes off
-Kneel when asked
-then sit comfortable on pad on floor when asked
-oldest starts eating first
-slurp soup
-Don’t stick chopsticks in rice
-Don’t dip in multiple
-Always finish rice
- no head of table
-never blow nose
-they won’t let you help clean up
-often times women won’t eat with you but will continue preparing food
-Everyone uses same soup bowl
-if good friend, you can swipe things from their chopsticks with yours
-always use two hands to accept anything, bow head too.
- for prayer, you never cross legs
- and many more I will discover, likely to late (smile)
Elder Holland spoke to us on Tuesday night. It was incredible. He and his wife had no notes and gave powerful talks. He talked about converting yourself before anyone else. He was very intense, funny, and clear. His wife testified that He is an apostle of Jesus Christ. She said he is never critical, judgemental, or mean. Earlier that morning I had told my roommates that I thought Elder Holland was coming. We felt very blessed to have him for our last devotional.
I have enjoyed the MTC. This is likely my last letter from here. I have grown immensely. Each day I have become better. I feel ready to leave. I’m excited to apply my learning and help people. Yesterday we took a shuttle to a dermatologist because of a rash on my face. It was very strange to see the outside world. At the Doc.’s the receptionist asked us for help on her Y.W. lesson. I offered some stories and a quote. As we waited to be picked up, 20 or so people walked in the doors as said hello to us. Leaving the MTC, we really realized how much we stand out and what we stand for. An elderly blind lady sat down on the bench we waited on, and talked to us about her time in the Mo Tab. It was cool. I’m actually grateful for the rash because of this opportunity to help and guide people.
We also watched Finding Faith and the Lamb of God. I would highly recommend the family watch both. I’m out of time. Thanks for your love.
Elder Britsch
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Our trip down under and up above
Hi Everyone-
That's exciting that Elder Britch is in Korea! Aub and I are leaving Tokyo this morning to head home for Thanksgiving. We've had a wonderful trip and have especially enjoyed staying with cousin Jane in Tokyo and getting to know her family. Here are some pictures of our visit to LA (to get Aub's passport renewed and eat a few Sprinkle's cupcakes), Brisbane, the Great Barrier Reef, and Tokyo. Happy Thanksgiving!!
That's exciting that Elder Britch is in Korea! Aub and I are leaving Tokyo this morning to head home for Thanksgiving. We've had a wonderful trip and have especially enjoyed staying with cousin Jane in Tokyo and getting to know her family. Here are some pictures of our visit to LA (to get Aub's passport renewed and eat a few Sprinkle's cupcakes), Brisbane, the Great Barrier Reef, and Tokyo. Happy Thanksgiving!!
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| Australia_and_Tokyo_Nov08 |
Monday, November 24, 2008
Elder Britsch is on his way to Korea!
We talked to McKay this morning on the phone when he was at the Salt Lake airport. It was great to hear his voice. He was very excited to be leaving for Korea.
Elder Britsch's Letter Nov. 18th, 2008
Dear All,
Well, I m very excited to go to Korea on Monday. The flight is 16 hrs but will be a great time to study up on the gospel and Korean. We have had some great speakers lately. Elder and Sister Bushe, they are German, (ameritus 70) spoke about overcoming trials. He shared his experience of nearly dying of HEP B in a german hospital back in the 40's. He did not have religion at the time but called upon God as he waited to die. He then heard God tell him that if he prayed he would recover. And to the shock of the medical staff, he did. At this time he committed himself to be a disciple of God. He then ran into our missionaries and joined our church and served faithfully in it there after. In Acts 3:20-21 and Ephesians 1:10, it speaks of a restitution. This restitution is the resoration of the gospel. It has occured as was prophecied by the apostles Jesus Christ called himself. Joseph Smith brought about that restitution/restoration. The puzzle pieces of Christ's church that have been pulled apart and used many churches, are now back together and the puzzle is once again complete. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has the complete puzzle. The Lord has restored the fulness to the earth so we can be happy and return to him again. I am out of time.
I love you all.
Elder Britsch
Well, I m very excited to go to Korea on Monday. The flight is 16 hrs but will be a great time to study up on the gospel and Korean. We have had some great speakers lately. Elder and Sister Bushe, they are German, (ameritus 70) spoke about overcoming trials. He shared his experience of nearly dying of HEP B in a german hospital back in the 40's. He did not have religion at the time but called upon God as he waited to die. He then heard God tell him that if he prayed he would recover. And to the shock of the medical staff, he did. At this time he committed himself to be a disciple of God. He then ran into our missionaries and joined our church and served faithfully in it there after. In Acts 3:20-21 and Ephesians 1:10, it speaks of a restitution. This restitution is the resoration of the gospel. It has occured as was prophecied by the apostles Jesus Christ called himself. Joseph Smith brought about that restitution/restoration. The puzzle pieces of Christ's church that have been pulled apart and used many churches, are now back together and the puzzle is once again complete. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has the complete puzzle. The Lord has restored the fulness to the earth so we can be happy and return to him again. I am out of time.
I love you all.
Elder Britsch
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Elder Britsch Letter - Nov. 11th, 2008
Dear All,
Thanks again for your letters. They mean more to me than you know. They are very inspiring. My M.T.C. experience is coming to a close. I leave in 2 wks. I get my flight plans on Friday. This week we are only speaking korean. Its a challenge but we're discovering that we know more than we think. On Sat. we taught the 2nd lesson in korean again. To our joy, our teacher said it was near perfect. We taught from the scriptures and made it very discussion oriented. We taught an R.M. and a korean in her 20's. We are very excited to teach again. Then on sat. night, we went to the referral center. Many of the calls were with people expressing anger at our church for the prosposition 8 recent events. Fortunately, I did not get any angry calls or chats. Actually, I spent the night chatting with a guy who goes to Dayton university and was writing a report on mormons. It was very positive. He has a friend on the byu lacrosse team and his neighbor is a freshman at byu. He asked me about what we obstain from, our church services, and ther beliefs. I told him he should go to church and get a first hand experience to write his report. he said he thought it was closed to the public and was secretive. I explained that we welcome visitors. God welcomes all people into his gospel and kingdom. He told me he was catholic but had some concerns about his faith. I asked him if he had ever asked god which church was true. he said that all churches are true and there are tons of catholics so it must be doing something right. I told him that the catholic church is doing lots of good things but that there are also millions of hindus, and buddhists, and protestants. So which one is right? If god set up his church while he was on the earth, than doesn't it seem that there would be one true church? one church that is his? He said, he had always just followed his parents beliefs. I asked him if god answers our prayers. He said he does. So i asked him if he thought he should ask god which church is god's church. He said he would. Then i introduced the Joseph Smith story. joseph went through the same process. I then bore my testimony of how i discovered the lds church to be god's church through prayer. I told him about the book of mormon and how it promises that if we read it and then pray about it that we will know it is true. He asked me for a copy of it. I got his address and one is being sent to him with a missionary visit. He also aked if i had been raised mormon. I said yes, but I had gained my own knowledge of the ture church through prayer. He said, "so are you saying your parents had nothing to do with it?" I always felt truth and goodness from what i learned at church and what they believed but i needed to know for myself. He said that was cool.
There are so many people in this world who are searching for god's ture gospel. so many churches have pieces of the puzzle. Many even have big pieces. But the church of jesus christ of latter day saints has the whole puzzle, and its put together. I love this gospel because all of the pieces are here. It is not a church by men, but by god. This is my witness.
I love you all. -Elder Britsch
Thanks again for your letters. They mean more to me than you know. They are very inspiring. My M.T.C. experience is coming to a close. I leave in 2 wks. I get my flight plans on Friday. This week we are only speaking korean. Its a challenge but we're discovering that we know more than we think. On Sat. we taught the 2nd lesson in korean again. To our joy, our teacher said it was near perfect. We taught from the scriptures and made it very discussion oriented. We taught an R.M. and a korean in her 20's. We are very excited to teach again. Then on sat. night, we went to the referral center. Many of the calls were with people expressing anger at our church for the prosposition 8 recent events. Fortunately, I did not get any angry calls or chats. Actually, I spent the night chatting with a guy who goes to Dayton university and was writing a report on mormons. It was very positive. He has a friend on the byu lacrosse team and his neighbor is a freshman at byu. He asked me about what we obstain from, our church services, and ther beliefs. I told him he should go to church and get a first hand experience to write his report. he said he thought it was closed to the public and was secretive. I explained that we welcome visitors. God welcomes all people into his gospel and kingdom. He told me he was catholic but had some concerns about his faith. I asked him if he had ever asked god which church was true. he said that all churches are true and there are tons of catholics so it must be doing something right. I told him that the catholic church is doing lots of good things but that there are also millions of hindus, and buddhists, and protestants. So which one is right? If god set up his church while he was on the earth, than doesn't it seem that there would be one true church? one church that is his? He said, he had always just followed his parents beliefs. I asked him if god answers our prayers. He said he does. So i asked him if he thought he should ask god which church is god's church. He said he would. Then i introduced the Joseph Smith story. joseph went through the same process. I then bore my testimony of how i discovered the lds church to be god's church through prayer. I told him about the book of mormon and how it promises that if we read it and then pray about it that we will know it is true. He asked me for a copy of it. I got his address and one is being sent to him with a missionary visit. He also aked if i had been raised mormon. I said yes, but I had gained my own knowledge of the ture church through prayer. He said, "so are you saying your parents had nothing to do with it?" I always felt truth and goodness from what i learned at church and what they believed but i needed to know for myself. He said that was cool.
There are so many people in this world who are searching for god's ture gospel. so many churches have pieces of the puzzle. Many even have big pieces. But the church of jesus christ of latter day saints has the whole puzzle, and its put together. I love this gospel because all of the pieces are here. It is not a church by men, but by god. This is my witness.
I love you all. -Elder Britsch
Elder Britsch Letter - Nov. 4th, 2008
Hey All,
Thanks for all the letters. I am very blessed to have such good friends and family. The past week was supposed to be the hardest of my time at the M.T.C. We learned a lot of new Korean inorder to practice teaching God's plan of salvation on Sat. Despite an overwelming amount of new words, we taught our best lesson yet.
On Tuesday, Elder Perry gave the devotional and gave a great doctrinal talk on the Book of Mormon. Then on Sunday, one of the district presidents, named Pres Thomas, gave a lesson on how the Book of Mormon's truth can be seen in the bedoin (sp?) poetry found throughout it. It is obvious that Jospeh Smith at such a young age, and in the 1800's, did not have a knowledge of chiasmus or beduin poetry. It is a form of poetry westerners have only been aware of somewhat recently. He showed us many points in which this is evident in the text. It is clear that Joseph Smith did not make up the Book of Mormon. It increased my knowledge that it is a book from ancient prophets and translated by Joseph Smith with God's help. However, these tangible evidences are nto why I know it is true, that it is from God. I know its true because I ahve prayed about it. And that has made all the difference in my life.
Last Sunday, our mtc mission pres., pres. Boone, spoke about the plan of salvation. He expounded upon the plan by showing how one of the plain and precious truths lost in the bible through its many translations is the god's plan for his people. it is interesting how the book of mormon explains these truths. Theatonement is also much better explained in the book of mormon, the word only appeas once in the bible. The bible is the word of god and testifies of christ but it has been changed and influenced by man. Just look at the 1000's of versions you can find of it. I will send my notes from the meetings home and have them posted.I love the Book of Mormon because it so fully and simply explains the turths of the bible. Both testify of each others truths. They are meant to go hand in hand.
I leave in 3 weeks for korea and I'm very excited. I am growing immensely at this time. The lord has grealty guided and comforted me. I am amazed at the speed I am learning korean, I know god is helping me because he wants me to be able to serve his children in korea.
I hope you all had a happy halloween. I was in class till 9:30pm as usual and then went home and counseled with one of my district members. He wants to become more focused and become a better missionary because he is gaining a greater realization of the glory of God and God's will to help and have a hand in the lives of his children. It was not a typical halloween but it is one I will remember. I love you all and pray for you. I am so glad to be a missionary. I feel so blessed. It is amazing to see god's hand in our lives. When we live god's commandments he blesses us. Its that simple. Wish i could write more, but im out of time.
Keep in touch.
Elder Britsch
Thanks for all the letters. I am very blessed to have such good friends and family. The past week was supposed to be the hardest of my time at the M.T.C. We learned a lot of new Korean inorder to practice teaching God's plan of salvation on Sat. Despite an overwelming amount of new words, we taught our best lesson yet.
On Tuesday, Elder Perry gave the devotional and gave a great doctrinal talk on the Book of Mormon. Then on Sunday, one of the district presidents, named Pres Thomas, gave a lesson on how the Book of Mormon's truth can be seen in the bedoin (sp?) poetry found throughout it. It is obvious that Jospeh Smith at such a young age, and in the 1800's, did not have a knowledge of chiasmus or beduin poetry. It is a form of poetry westerners have only been aware of somewhat recently. He showed us many points in which this is evident in the text. It is clear that Joseph Smith did not make up the Book of Mormon. It increased my knowledge that it is a book from ancient prophets and translated by Joseph Smith with God's help. However, these tangible evidences are nto why I know it is true, that it is from God. I know its true because I ahve prayed about it. And that has made all the difference in my life.
Last Sunday, our mtc mission pres., pres. Boone, spoke about the plan of salvation. He expounded upon the plan by showing how one of the plain and precious truths lost in the bible through its many translations is the god's plan for his people. it is interesting how the book of mormon explains these truths. Theatonement is also much better explained in the book of mormon, the word only appeas once in the bible. The bible is the word of god and testifies of christ but it has been changed and influenced by man. Just look at the 1000's of versions you can find of it. I will send my notes from the meetings home and have them posted.I love the Book of Mormon because it so fully and simply explains the turths of the bible. Both testify of each others truths. They are meant to go hand in hand.
I leave in 3 weeks for korea and I'm very excited. I am growing immensely at this time. The lord has grealty guided and comforted me. I am amazed at the speed I am learning korean, I know god is helping me because he wants me to be able to serve his children in korea.
I hope you all had a happy halloween. I was in class till 9:30pm as usual and then went home and counseled with one of my district members. He wants to become more focused and become a better missionary because he is gaining a greater realization of the glory of God and God's will to help and have a hand in the lives of his children. It was not a typical halloween but it is one I will remember. I love you all and pray for you. I am so glad to be a missionary. I feel so blessed. It is amazing to see god's hand in our lives. When we live god's commandments he blesses us. Its that simple. Wish i could write more, but im out of time.
Keep in touch.
Elder Britsch
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Monday, November 3, 2008
Elder Britsch's letter Oct. 28th, 2008
Dear Fam, Oct. 28th, 2008
Thank you for your letters. The last week was the hardest yet, but this week is suppose to be the hardest in the MTC. We are teaching the second lesson in Korean on Sat. It can be overwhelming at times but we are patient. Elder Mask and Sis. Mask gave our Tues. devot. on "going and doing the Lord's will". He shared a cool story about how his grandpa had taught the king of Mexico on his mission. I've been trying to memorize key chapters of the Book of Mormon in my personal time. Our S.Y.L. is getting better. The Korean is a constant battle but it’s coming. I am discovering that each weak I am pushed into making a weakness a strength. I am really being refined. The Book of Mormon is an extrememly powerful book. I watched a film of Pres. Uchtdorfs devotional address of 06 in which he talked about his wife's conversion. I would recommend looking up the story. I am learning greatly about myself and the gospel. Our district has made a new commitment for greater charity. We are a group of talented individuals but we are still becoming a talented group. I’m excited for Korea. The new elders arrived this week and 3 are Korean but are going to L.A. and Toronto.
Please keep me updated. This would be a great week to get letters.
Thank you for all your prayers and letters.
Love, Elder Britsch
Thank you for your letters. The last week was the hardest yet, but this week is suppose to be the hardest in the MTC. We are teaching the second lesson in Korean on Sat. It can be overwhelming at times but we are patient. Elder Mask and Sis. Mask gave our Tues. devot. on "going and doing the Lord's will". He shared a cool story about how his grandpa had taught the king of Mexico on his mission. I've been trying to memorize key chapters of the Book of Mormon in my personal time. Our S.Y.L. is getting better. The Korean is a constant battle but it’s coming. I am discovering that each weak I am pushed into making a weakness a strength. I am really being refined. The Book of Mormon is an extrememly powerful book. I watched a film of Pres. Uchtdorfs devotional address of 06 in which he talked about his wife's conversion. I would recommend looking up the story. I am learning greatly about myself and the gospel. Our district has made a new commitment for greater charity. We are a group of talented individuals but we are still becoming a talented group. I’m excited for Korea. The new elders arrived this week and 3 are Korean but are going to L.A. and Toronto.
Please keep me updated. This would be a great week to get letters.
Thank you for all your prayers and letters.
Love, Elder Britsch
Elder Britsch Letter Oct. 21st, 2008
Dear All, Oct. 21st, 2008
Another enriching week. Last Tuesday, Elder Scott gave an excellent devotional address. He related very well to us and offered to shake everyone's hand after the meeting. As he shook mine, he looked into my eyes and I felt like he saw into my soul. I felt a tremendous love from him and the savior. He truly is an apostle of Jesus Christ and definetly has Christ in his countenance. It was a very spiritual experience. We have been talking for days about it. Then on Sunday, Sister Sheri Dew gave a very good talk on focusing our lives on the savior as our fireside address. She listed four steps for focusing more on the savior:
1. Be clear who we are
2. Be obedient - even more than we need to be
3. Seek purity - god wants us home clean
4. Listen to the Lord not the world a) immerse in scripturesb)seek how to get revelationc) listen to living prophets - she showed how Pres. Hinkley's talk "To Boys and Men" in '98 spoke of getting our homes in order. Then she showed the news headlines of the economic crash of the past few weeks. Prophets words should be listened too. I then read Pres. Monson's recent talk again.I testify that the scriptures are powerful. They are a key to revelation. They pull families together and bless them greatly.
On Sat. night, we used mormon.org at the referral center to chat with a 17yr. old girl. She is asked if believed Christ was the son of God, if we were christians, and if god loved her. She no longer wanted to follow the religion of her mother and wanted to seek out her own truth. She already had a Book of Mormon so I shared some verses with her about Christ and about god's love for his children. She said she could see that we were Christians and that God loved her even though she felt unworthy of love from anyone. She was so greatful to talk to someone about her life questions. She said I was the only person she had ever talked to about deep questions of her soul. I commited her to read passages of the Book of Mormon including Moroni 10:3-5 and pray. I also told her how to have the missionaries come over and we set up a follow up appointment. She loved everything we said and said she'd keep in contact. It was a great experience. There are people waiting for us to answer their questions. People waiting for an invitation to join God's kingdom. People who desparately need to know that someone loves them, that God loves them. If we show the Lord we are willing and desire to share his gospel with our brothers and sisters, we will be guided to those who are ready.
To answer your question about the language. The language is not easy. It tests my patience and my memory. Language has never been my strong point, but its good.
I love you all so much.
The Lord loves you.
Thank you for your letters.
Elder Britsch
Another enriching week. Last Tuesday, Elder Scott gave an excellent devotional address. He related very well to us and offered to shake everyone's hand after the meeting. As he shook mine, he looked into my eyes and I felt like he saw into my soul. I felt a tremendous love from him and the savior. He truly is an apostle of Jesus Christ and definetly has Christ in his countenance. It was a very spiritual experience. We have been talking for days about it. Then on Sunday, Sister Sheri Dew gave a very good talk on focusing our lives on the savior as our fireside address. She listed four steps for focusing more on the savior:
1. Be clear who we are
2. Be obedient - even more than we need to be
3. Seek purity - god wants us home clean
4. Listen to the Lord not the world a) immerse in scripturesb)seek how to get revelationc) listen to living prophets - she showed how Pres. Hinkley's talk "To Boys and Men" in '98 spoke of getting our homes in order. Then she showed the news headlines of the economic crash of the past few weeks. Prophets words should be listened too. I then read Pres. Monson's recent talk again.I testify that the scriptures are powerful. They are a key to revelation. They pull families together and bless them greatly.
On Sat. night, we used mormon.org at the referral center to chat with a 17yr. old girl. She is asked if believed Christ was the son of God, if we were christians, and if god loved her. She no longer wanted to follow the religion of her mother and wanted to seek out her own truth. She already had a Book of Mormon so I shared some verses with her about Christ and about god's love for his children. She said she could see that we were Christians and that God loved her even though she felt unworthy of love from anyone. She was so greatful to talk to someone about her life questions. She said I was the only person she had ever talked to about deep questions of her soul. I commited her to read passages of the Book of Mormon including Moroni 10:3-5 and pray. I also told her how to have the missionaries come over and we set up a follow up appointment. She loved everything we said and said she'd keep in contact. It was a great experience. There are people waiting for us to answer their questions. People waiting for an invitation to join God's kingdom. People who desparately need to know that someone loves them, that God loves them. If we show the Lord we are willing and desire to share his gospel with our brothers and sisters, we will be guided to those who are ready.
To answer your question about the language. The language is not easy. It tests my patience and my memory. Language has never been my strong point, but its good.
I love you all so much.
The Lord loves you.
Thank you for your letters.
Elder Britsch
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Steve's tech talk in Vancouver
Here's a link to a video of a panel discussion on conservation tools held at a big TNC-sponsored meeting last week in Vancouver, BC. Hope all the tech talk doesn't bore you to tears.
Newsflash! Brin FINALLY leaves primary and enters YW!!
After what has seemed like an eternity, Brin finally hit the age of 12 and is now joining her sister in the wonderful world of Young Womens. Congrats Brin - We love you!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Elder Britsch's letter Oct. 14th, 2008
Dear All, Oct. 14th, 2008
I'm just reaching the half way point of my MTC time. I can't believe it. It's going by very fast. The older districts left Mon. and leave tomorrow (40+ Korean serving missionaries). We are now the older districts and are much smaller with around 30 rather than 70. However, are numbers will grow as the new districts come in on the 22nd. We are excited to introduce them to the MTC and Korean. I've served my 6 weeks as District Leader and Elder Skousen has taken the position. He will do a great job. I really enjoyed my time. I'm starting to feel close to my departure date. It's very exciting. We are now speaking only Korean at Breakfast and will start doing full days soon.
Thank you for all of your letters.
Finch Family - Thank you for the treats and letter. I really enjoyed them. Great choices :)
Ryan and Angela Clan - Thank you for your letter. I hope all is well.
I will try to write more later.
God Bless you,
Elder Britsch
I'm just reaching the half way point of my MTC time. I can't believe it. It's going by very fast. The older districts left Mon. and leave tomorrow (40+ Korean serving missionaries). We are now the older districts and are much smaller with around 30 rather than 70. However, are numbers will grow as the new districts come in on the 22nd. We are excited to introduce them to the MTC and Korean. I've served my 6 weeks as District Leader and Elder Skousen has taken the position. He will do a great job. I really enjoyed my time. I'm starting to feel close to my departure date. It's very exciting. We are now speaking only Korean at Breakfast and will start doing full days soon.
Thank you for all of your letters.
Finch Family - Thank you for the treats and letter. I really enjoyed them. Great choices :)
Ryan and Angela Clan - Thank you for your letter. I hope all is well.
I will try to write more later.
God Bless you,
Elder Britsch
Elder Britsch letter Oct. 7th, 2008
Email part of letter
Dear Family, Oct. 7th 2008
The past week has been wonderful. General Conference is like Christmas for a missionary. It was a very spiritual experience. I received so much revelation and inspiration from the talks. I was very sad to have it end. It also gave us a good break from our classes. The talks seem to answer many of the things that our district has been faced with the past few weeks. Here are some of the things that stuck out to me:- a temple in Rome!
-Silvia Alred's talk on missionary work
-Neil L. Anderson's talk on the days of doubt and discouragement (a district concern)
- Marcos Aidukaitis' talk (he his my friend/freshman elders quorom pres.'s dad)
-Elder Holland's talk on Angels
-Elder Christoferson on Unity (district goal), gain is not godliness!
-Elder Bednard on 3 principles of prayer.
-Elder Scott on the value of women, and helping them with discouragement (district concern)
-Pres. Ucktdorf "Lift where you Stand" (district concern)
-Pres Eyring's talks are awesome
-Pres. Monson on homes as sanctuaries of righteousness
-Elder Hales on not leaving the high ground for discussions, especially religious (district goal)
-Sis. Dalton on D&C121:45 (Charity is our district focus of the week and scripture)
-Pres Monson on letting people know you love them. "They do not love who do not show their love," Shakespeare
- Elder Godoy on not needing a remarkable conversion or spiritual experience bot just small and simple steps (district concern)
-Elder Cook on the sin of ingratitude
-Pres. Monson on the heavens being open, Listen for his voice.
On Sunday night I watched the Restoration/Joseph Smith movie again, and again it was a very spiritual experience. I know that Joseph Smith saw God and Jesus Christ. He was/is a Prophet. The Book of Mormon is testament of Christ from God. Temple's are a key to exaltation. The Heavens are open. The Plan of Salvation is real. The Church of Jesus Christ is once again upon the Earth. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ. I am a missionary for him. I rejoice in inviting souls to come unto Christ. I love God and He Loves me. Jesus Christ is the redeemer of the world. As we loose ourselves we find God and others. I have felt great happiness is the service of my district members. I've discovered that my allergies are not going away anytime soon and that I am actually grateful for this trial because it has made me more dependant on the Lord for strength, energy and guidance and made more in tune with the the will of the Spirit. I can't wait to teach the Korean people. I love you all so very much.
The Lord has placed me in a wonderful family. Thank you for your letters.
Thank you Stewart Family for the treats, Grandpa and Grandma Schill for the Letter,
Thank you Ana Lefler and Roommates for the awesome package! So nice of you.
And thank you to others who I will mention later.
God be with you,
Elder Britsch
Written letter
Dear Family,
I wrote much of my week in the e-mail but I want to reply to letters specifically.
Dad- I hope you've enjoyed Puerto Rico. Thank you for being a worthy admirable priesthood holder. your teaching and counselling skills have been some of the many things that I've learned from you and applied with my district. You are such a good father.
Mom- Thanks for your email. I also liked Elder Perry's talk. It is interesting the parallels of missionary work and Thoreau's 2 years of separation from the World. I liked Sis. Dalton's talk. She reminded me of you in her care for the Young Women. One of the best ways to strengthen your testimony is to testify. Mom, thank you for your steadfastness and Christlike attributes. You are so charitable. I'm learning more and more in life that its our care for others that matters. God won't ask what positions we held, he'll ask how we looked after the welfare of our brother and sisters. Your kindness and patience are attributes that are awesome and are what I am focusing my development on as I study and teach.
My companion and I still get along great. The district is doing much better. It is great to see how charity, unity and obedience increase the spirit. I've been learning to compliment and build others without expecting/wanting anything in return. Apologizing has become much easier. Humility is the key. I've got allergies and my companion is doing well (over his pneomonia). I'm excited for your new job. It sounds interesting and very fulfilling. You are bettering society. My drawing skills are slacking but its good to learn you are still painting.
As for talks, I would like some on the restoration and the plan of salvation/
The language is coming. I'm learning humility and patience (smile).
Court sport - Thanks so much for your letter. Your homecoming experience sounds like it was good. You are a great example to your friends and others. Your missionary experiences are sweet. I would love to be there. Don't be afraid to talk about the church ever. Invite your friends to church. Commit those you talk to, to pray and read the Book of Mormon. I wish I had done more for my friends. There's nothing to fear. Read preach my gospel Lesson 1 and 2 and go to the How to Teach section. Preach my Gospel gives you all you need to do. Testify of the restoration and Book of Mormon. Sometimes it takes 30 invitations before they come but be diligent and love them. Rejoice in the gospel. They will see your light and want to know more. Thank you for your example to me. You are a great missionary. Invite a friend to every mutual. Don't miss an opportunity. Follow Elder Bednar's "Ask in Faith Steps." You are a wonderful sister and virtuous young woman. I'm amazed by your testimony and great attitude towards life.
Hunter - You are the man! I looked back at your handbag/messenger bag folded letter again. It is so cool. How is school? No girlfriends I hope (smile). Are you playing any sports? How's the stringed instrument? piano? We've had lots of piano performances and cello here at the MTC. It will come in handy knowing how to play as a missionary. Invite your friends to church. They look to you and will listen to you. Pray that they will be able to and ask God for courage to ask them. Never let down your standards. Your fun personality makes you wanted as a friend. You can be the cool Mormon kid. Your friends parents will appreciate your righteous example. To God you are always awesome.
Karsyn - I loved your letter. You write better than me! You are such a smart kid. Thank you for writing me. I love your letters! How's school going? Keep inviting Kailee over for F.H.E. and church. She needs your friendship and you can be/ and are a great missionary to her.
Family - I love you all so much. My mind at night is full of people who I care for and those who need to hear the gospel. Our house is a sanctuary of righteousness, but the homes of our neighbors are not. Though I wish to only compliment your efforts and know you are doing great, I feel the need to tell you my thoughts on what you can do as missionaries. Our neighbors need the gospel. Elder Ballard's talk says that our challenges are equal to but different than the pioneers. We're not asked to cross the U.S. on foot but we're asked to cross the street and talk to our neighbors. I am hypocritical if I tell you this is easy or I was good at it but you can be better than I was about friendliness to neighbors. It is not to late. As Pres. Monson said "Let people know you love them." and "There is no time in the future." There will not be a better time to make friends. If you step out of yourselves and make a special effort you will be so blessed. It is happening to me. We should know everyone on our street. Gone are days of isolation. Why can't our street be the friendly happy street of those we read about in books. All it takes is effort. The Lal's are being prepared by the Lord. They are prepared. Invite them over. Invite them to church. Share the family proclamation with them. Don't let them enter our house without seeing signs of our faith and testimonies. Our family will grow closer and our happiness will be fuller as we trust the Lord and exercise our faith. He loves us! How great will be your joy as you bring the Lal's unto Christ. They need to know that God lives. That their family can be eternal and how. Tell them in excitement and sincere compassion for their souls and salvation. People are waiting to be asked to come unto the waters of Christ.
You are in my prayers every night. This is an exciting time. Bishop Lefler's promise will be fulfilled. I love you all. You are awesome.
Love you,
Elder Britsch
Dear Family, Oct. 7th 2008
The past week has been wonderful. General Conference is like Christmas for a missionary. It was a very spiritual experience. I received so much revelation and inspiration from the talks. I was very sad to have it end. It also gave us a good break from our classes. The talks seem to answer many of the things that our district has been faced with the past few weeks. Here are some of the things that stuck out to me:- a temple in Rome!
-Silvia Alred's talk on missionary work
-Neil L. Anderson's talk on the days of doubt and discouragement (a district concern)
- Marcos Aidukaitis' talk (he his my friend/freshman elders quorom pres.'s dad)
-Elder Holland's talk on Angels
-Elder Christoferson on Unity (district goal), gain is not godliness!
-Elder Bednard on 3 principles of prayer.
-Elder Scott on the value of women, and helping them with discouragement (district concern)
-Pres. Ucktdorf "Lift where you Stand" (district concern)
-Pres Eyring's talks are awesome
-Pres. Monson on homes as sanctuaries of righteousness
-Elder Hales on not leaving the high ground for discussions, especially religious (district goal)
-Sis. Dalton on D&C121:45 (Charity is our district focus of the week and scripture)
-Pres Monson on letting people know you love them. "They do not love who do not show their love," Shakespeare
- Elder Godoy on not needing a remarkable conversion or spiritual experience bot just small and simple steps (district concern)
-Elder Cook on the sin of ingratitude
-Pres. Monson on the heavens being open, Listen for his voice.
On Sunday night I watched the Restoration/Joseph Smith movie again, and again it was a very spiritual experience. I know that Joseph Smith saw God and Jesus Christ. He was/is a Prophet. The Book of Mormon is testament of Christ from God. Temple's are a key to exaltation. The Heavens are open. The Plan of Salvation is real. The Church of Jesus Christ is once again upon the Earth. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ. I am a missionary for him. I rejoice in inviting souls to come unto Christ. I love God and He Loves me. Jesus Christ is the redeemer of the world. As we loose ourselves we find God and others. I have felt great happiness is the service of my district members. I've discovered that my allergies are not going away anytime soon and that I am actually grateful for this trial because it has made me more dependant on the Lord for strength, energy and guidance and made more in tune with the the will of the Spirit. I can't wait to teach the Korean people. I love you all so very much.
The Lord has placed me in a wonderful family. Thank you for your letters.
Thank you Stewart Family for the treats, Grandpa and Grandma Schill for the Letter,
Thank you Ana Lefler and Roommates for the awesome package! So nice of you.
And thank you to others who I will mention later.
God be with you,
Elder Britsch
Written letter
Dear Family,
I wrote much of my week in the e-mail but I want to reply to letters specifically.
Dad- I hope you've enjoyed Puerto Rico. Thank you for being a worthy admirable priesthood holder. your teaching and counselling skills have been some of the many things that I've learned from you and applied with my district. You are such a good father.
Mom- Thanks for your email. I also liked Elder Perry's talk. It is interesting the parallels of missionary work and Thoreau's 2 years of separation from the World. I liked Sis. Dalton's talk. She reminded me of you in her care for the Young Women. One of the best ways to strengthen your testimony is to testify. Mom, thank you for your steadfastness and Christlike attributes. You are so charitable. I'm learning more and more in life that its our care for others that matters. God won't ask what positions we held, he'll ask how we looked after the welfare of our brother and sisters. Your kindness and patience are attributes that are awesome and are what I am focusing my development on as I study and teach.
My companion and I still get along great. The district is doing much better. It is great to see how charity, unity and obedience increase the spirit. I've been learning to compliment and build others without expecting/wanting anything in return. Apologizing has become much easier. Humility is the key. I've got allergies and my companion is doing well (over his pneomonia). I'm excited for your new job. It sounds interesting and very fulfilling. You are bettering society. My drawing skills are slacking but its good to learn you are still painting.
As for talks, I would like some on the restoration and the plan of salvation/
The language is coming. I'm learning humility and patience (smile).
Court sport - Thanks so much for your letter. Your homecoming experience sounds like it was good. You are a great example to your friends and others. Your missionary experiences are sweet. I would love to be there. Don't be afraid to talk about the church ever. Invite your friends to church. Commit those you talk to, to pray and read the Book of Mormon. I wish I had done more for my friends. There's nothing to fear. Read preach my gospel Lesson 1 and 2 and go to the How to Teach section. Preach my Gospel gives you all you need to do. Testify of the restoration and Book of Mormon. Sometimes it takes 30 invitations before they come but be diligent and love them. Rejoice in the gospel. They will see your light and want to know more. Thank you for your example to me. You are a great missionary. Invite a friend to every mutual. Don't miss an opportunity. Follow Elder Bednar's "Ask in Faith Steps." You are a wonderful sister and virtuous young woman. I'm amazed by your testimony and great attitude towards life.
Hunter - You are the man! I looked back at your handbag/messenger bag folded letter again. It is so cool. How is school? No girlfriends I hope (smile). Are you playing any sports? How's the stringed instrument? piano? We've had lots of piano performances and cello here at the MTC. It will come in handy knowing how to play as a missionary. Invite your friends to church. They look to you and will listen to you. Pray that they will be able to and ask God for courage to ask them. Never let down your standards. Your fun personality makes you wanted as a friend. You can be the cool Mormon kid. Your friends parents will appreciate your righteous example. To God you are always awesome.
Karsyn - I loved your letter. You write better than me! You are such a smart kid. Thank you for writing me. I love your letters! How's school going? Keep inviting Kailee over for F.H.E. and church. She needs your friendship and you can be/ and are a great missionary to her.
Family - I love you all so much. My mind at night is full of people who I care for and those who need to hear the gospel. Our house is a sanctuary of righteousness, but the homes of our neighbors are not. Though I wish to only compliment your efforts and know you are doing great, I feel the need to tell you my thoughts on what you can do as missionaries. Our neighbors need the gospel. Elder Ballard's talk says that our challenges are equal to but different than the pioneers. We're not asked to cross the U.S. on foot but we're asked to cross the street and talk to our neighbors. I am hypocritical if I tell you this is easy or I was good at it but you can be better than I was about friendliness to neighbors. It is not to late. As Pres. Monson said "Let people know you love them." and "There is no time in the future." There will not be a better time to make friends. If you step out of yourselves and make a special effort you will be so blessed. It is happening to me. We should know everyone on our street. Gone are days of isolation. Why can't our street be the friendly happy street of those we read about in books. All it takes is effort. The Lal's are being prepared by the Lord. They are prepared. Invite them over. Invite them to church. Share the family proclamation with them. Don't let them enter our house without seeing signs of our faith and testimonies. Our family will grow closer and our happiness will be fuller as we trust the Lord and exercise our faith. He loves us! How great will be your joy as you bring the Lal's unto Christ. They need to know that God lives. That their family can be eternal and how. Tell them in excitement and sincere compassion for their souls and salvation. People are waiting to be asked to come unto the waters of Christ.
You are in my prayers every night. This is an exciting time. Bishop Lefler's promise will be fulfilled. I love you all. You are awesome.
Love you,
Elder Britsch
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Spring Break the Outback Way
In response to all those who have expressed concern over whether we rea
lly survived our big spring break outback drive-about, Mike has managed to figure out how to post a blog entry. About time!
lly survived our big spring break outback drive-about, Mike has managed to figure out how to post a blog entry. About time!We learned that Australia is big and wide open. Imagine the Western US (west of the Mississippi) with no freeways and only a handful of towns the largest of which is the size of American Fork. The Australian Outback is seriously wide open but we found to be filled with many fascinating and interesting things to experience. In the end we all enjoyed our 6000K camper drive from Melbourne to Darwin, and even more the flight home! Love to all. Mike
Pictures: Fossicking for garnets near Alice Springs, Looking for termites near Katherine, and the traditional border sign victory picture in Darwin on the north coast.
Pictures: Fossicking for garnets near Alice Springs, Looking for termites near Katherine, and the traditional border sign victory picture in Darwin on the north coast.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Elder Britsch's 3rd letter
Dear Family, Sept. 30th, 2008
I just got back from a great early morning session at the temple. My district memners are:Elder Bogner (Calif)Elder Glines (AZ)Elder Skousen (AZ)Elder Caldwell (Jordan, UT)Sister Jensen (McKiney, TX)Sister Gold (Holiday, Utah)Sister Moynihan (Texas)Sister Eager (Mid-west)Elder Larsen (West Valley, UT)I'll send pics soon so you can put names to faces.
Our devotional was by Elder Jensen of the 70 presidency - an excellent talk.
A number of marvelous things have occured this week.
1. One of the sisters in my district was close to leaving last week because of doubts in her testimony. However, she is now going strong due to the prayers and inspired actions of all of us. I don't have time for details , nor do I want to breach confidentiality, but I will say that I've realized that the Spirit guided me in things to do and what to say in behalf of this sister and another Elder who has faced a similiar but less drastic trial of his faith. I have found that the council and advice that I received before my mission has all already had application.
2. I was prompted to call counsel with my district about their behavior in one of our teaching sessions. I'm not a fan of coming down on people but the spirit told me what to say to them and it ended up being a very spiritual experience. It exhausted me. Later that night, the elder who had been causing the disruptions came and privately and personally apologized and thanked me for "calling him to repentance". Our conversation led to many other topics and discussions of his struggles. I shared thoughts on the feelings of the spirit and he then told me that I had just roughly quoted a scripture that he had just read but that had not yet hit him. It was an answer to his prayers. He told me he partly felt like Laman and Lemuel being preached to by Nephi (because I'm the youngest in the group) but that he knew what I said was from God. I'm very grateful for the experience. Shortly after, I offered a companionship prayer that was very real and close with the Lord.
I'm short on time so I will have to leave out some of the other miracles of the week. Mom, thank you very much for the cookies, letter, and personal things. The cookies are great and I love having my old scriptures back. Sounds like a great week of service. Family, please continue to keep me updated. Loved the letters from the kids. Dad, hope your talk went well.
Thank you Finch Family for your letters (great stickers). I loved them. I showed the kids drawings to my district. I love you all and pray for you daily. Feast upon the scriptures, they are amazing. I can't read the posts btw.
Love you,
Elder Britsch
I just got back from a great early morning session at the temple. My district memners are:Elder Bogner (Calif)Elder Glines (AZ)Elder Skousen (AZ)Elder Caldwell (Jordan, UT)Sister Jensen (McKiney, TX)Sister Gold (Holiday, Utah)Sister Moynihan (Texas)Sister Eager (Mid-west)Elder Larsen (West Valley, UT)I'll send pics soon so you can put names to faces.
Our devotional was by Elder Jensen of the 70 presidency - an excellent talk.
A number of marvelous things have occured this week.
1. One of the sisters in my district was close to leaving last week because of doubts in her testimony. However, she is now going strong due to the prayers and inspired actions of all of us. I don't have time for details , nor do I want to breach confidentiality, but I will say that I've realized that the Spirit guided me in things to do and what to say in behalf of this sister and another Elder who has faced a similiar but less drastic trial of his faith. I have found that the council and advice that I received before my mission has all already had application.
2. I was prompted to call counsel with my district about their behavior in one of our teaching sessions. I'm not a fan of coming down on people but the spirit told me what to say to them and it ended up being a very spiritual experience. It exhausted me. Later that night, the elder who had been causing the disruptions came and privately and personally apologized and thanked me for "calling him to repentance". Our conversation led to many other topics and discussions of his struggles. I shared thoughts on the feelings of the spirit and he then told me that I had just roughly quoted a scripture that he had just read but that had not yet hit him. It was an answer to his prayers. He told me he partly felt like Laman and Lemuel being preached to by Nephi (because I'm the youngest in the group) but that he knew what I said was from God. I'm very grateful for the experience. Shortly after, I offered a companionship prayer that was very real and close with the Lord.
I'm short on time so I will have to leave out some of the other miracles of the week. Mom, thank you very much for the cookies, letter, and personal things. The cookies are great and I love having my old scriptures back. Sounds like a great week of service. Family, please continue to keep me updated. Loved the letters from the kids. Dad, hope your talk went well.
Thank you Finch Family for your letters (great stickers). I loved them. I showed the kids drawings to my district. I love you all and pray for you daily. Feast upon the scriptures, they are amazing. I can't read the posts btw.
Love you,
Elder Britsch
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Elder Britsch 2nd Letter
Dear All, September 23, 2008
Well, I just spent my allotted 30 min. of email time but was timed out before sending my letter. If you want to email me – elderbritsch@myldsmail.net. Dearelder.com is also good because it is same day delivery.
I’m happy to hear that the hurricane was not to devastating to our area but my prayers go out to the people farther south. Sounds like quite an experience. It’s great that you all have been so involved in the aid of others. I hope you enjoyed the time off.
We have had some great experiences this week. The Tuesday devotional by Elder Hinckley and Sis. Hinkley was great. He gave the 9 “Be’s” of missionary work. We watched an excellent video by Elder Holland, 1 on teaching, the other on missionary work.
My district is still obedient and cheerful despite the language challenges. I just completed a letter to a sister in my district who is struggling with her testimony and her faith. I gave her some scriptures to look at and shared my testimony of the Lord’s love and will for her as a missionary. I’ve been so busy with the concerns of others that I’ve had no time to worry about myself. It’s great. The days are flying by.
Thank you for the letters from each of you. It’s great to hear about you. I taught a Korean girl (17 year old who goes to TimpView) and Korean boy (7th grade) this week with Elder Larsen. We introduces, testified and prayed in Korean ( they actually said our Korean was understandable (Smile)) Then shared the first lesson in English. The girl told us that (though she’s a member) she had never been able to understand the Elders english when she had come to the Teaching Resource Center (TRC) in the past. She wanted what we had and we told her how she could. Our testimonies were able to reach her heart (despite her broken English) by the spirit. Awesome!
Dad, in answer to your question, though undoubtedly too late, I’ve especially liked the stories of Aaron and Ammon because of their ability to teach simply and clearly to the Lamanite kings. I also like 2 Nephi 31 and 32 because these chapters explain the gospel so simply and powerfully. Thank you for your thoughts on Enos and please continue to share your insights.
I’ve been combating sickness but have taken the steps to recovery so no worries. My companion came to the MTC with pneumonia so I’m afraid I may have picked it up. (Mom, no worries, I’m fine!) The Lord has given me strength to carry out all my duties as I’ve prayed for His assistance. I’m amazed how the energy comes when absolutely needed and then leaves at night when my duties are done. I’ve learned to be careful in the exertion of the Lord’s energy.
I’m working on every thought of mine to be virtuous. I don’t want to regret anything, not even a thought. I was very focused last week but discovered I needed to have fun too! So I’m trying to relax a bit more now. I can’t do everything.
I wish you all the best. The importance of families has grown to me as I’ve taught it to other people. I love you all.
- Elder Britsch
Well, I just spent my allotted 30 min. of email time but was timed out before sending my letter. If you want to email me – elderbritsch@myldsmail.net. Dearelder.com is also good because it is same day delivery.
I’m happy to hear that the hurricane was not to devastating to our area but my prayers go out to the people farther south. Sounds like quite an experience. It’s great that you all have been so involved in the aid of others. I hope you enjoyed the time off.
We have had some great experiences this week. The Tuesday devotional by Elder Hinckley and Sis. Hinkley was great. He gave the 9 “Be’s” of missionary work. We watched an excellent video by Elder Holland, 1 on teaching, the other on missionary work.
My district is still obedient and cheerful despite the language challenges. I just completed a letter to a sister in my district who is struggling with her testimony and her faith. I gave her some scriptures to look at and shared my testimony of the Lord’s love and will for her as a missionary. I’ve been so busy with the concerns of others that I’ve had no time to worry about myself. It’s great. The days are flying by.
Thank you for the letters from each of you. It’s great to hear about you. I taught a Korean girl (17 year old who goes to TimpView) and Korean boy (7th grade) this week with Elder Larsen. We introduces, testified and prayed in Korean ( they actually said our Korean was understandable (Smile)) Then shared the first lesson in English. The girl told us that (though she’s a member) she had never been able to understand the Elders english when she had come to the Teaching Resource Center (TRC) in the past. She wanted what we had and we told her how she could. Our testimonies were able to reach her heart (despite her broken English) by the spirit. Awesome!
Dad, in answer to your question, though undoubtedly too late, I’ve especially liked the stories of Aaron and Ammon because of their ability to teach simply and clearly to the Lamanite kings. I also like 2 Nephi 31 and 32 because these chapters explain the gospel so simply and powerfully. Thank you for your thoughts on Enos and please continue to share your insights.
I’ve been combating sickness but have taken the steps to recovery so no worries. My companion came to the MTC with pneumonia so I’m afraid I may have picked it up. (Mom, no worries, I’m fine!) The Lord has given me strength to carry out all my duties as I’ve prayed for His assistance. I’m amazed how the energy comes when absolutely needed and then leaves at night when my duties are done. I’ve learned to be careful in the exertion of the Lord’s energy.
I’m working on every thought of mine to be virtuous. I don’t want to regret anything, not even a thought. I was very focused last week but discovered I needed to have fun too! So I’m trying to relax a bit more now. I can’t do everything.
I wish you all the best. The importance of families has grown to me as I’ve taught it to other people. I love you all.
- Elder Britsch
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Elder Britsch's letter
Here is Elder Britsch'sfirst letter home!
Dear Family, Sept. 16, 2008
I’m enjoying my time at the MTC. Today is my preparation day. I’m trying to email but my time is short and computers are in short supply. It feels like a month has passed but my time is flying by. My district is amazing. It consists of Elders Glines, Bogner, Caldwell, Skousen and Sisters Jensen, Gold, Eager, and Muyhihann. All Elders are going to Seoul –west as well as Sister Gold. The sisters came to the MTC with an already extensive Korean language mastery (the Elders are just trying to catch up). On Sunday I was unexpectedly called as the District Leader. I say unexpectedly mainly because I’ve felt very impressed by the other Elders and because I’ve struggled with the language initially. I’ve received confirmation that as I trust the Lord and go through my trials of faith (humbling) He will make-up for my weaknesses and make them strong. Ether 12:27,6 have been on my mind. I’ve also had repeated confirmation that my district has limitless potential and will convert thousands by means I am not yet aware. The spirit is awesome here. My branch pres. (Pres. Carlson) was a BYU professor and knows Grandpa Britsch and Pres. Pack and has family in Houston. He reassured me that you all were o.k. with the status updates on the hurricane. I got your letter yesterday, it was uplifting. Thank you. I’m sorry dad missed the blow-out game.
My companion is a wrestler (285 lbs.) from West Valley, Ut. He has an awesome memory and gospel knowledge that has impressed and benefitted me.
I am learning Korean slowly but it surprises me each day how far I have come. I can now bare testimony, pray, and introduce myself in Korean. We have been told by Pres. Carlson and our teachers that Korean is the 2nd hardest language at the MTC after Finnish, and when you add the Asian culture on top of that, it is said to be the hardest. That gives me comfort in my struggles.
I need a list of email contacts and addresses, my old black quad scriptures especially (ASAP!), my colored pages of new testament typed notes and other church pages found in my green storage bin found in my closet (anything I can read and use for knowledge that is lightweight and paper), and letters!
I have seen Alan Reinjes, Collin Nicholas, Garret Johnson, and other BYU friends.
Now, I must preach to the family (smile). I must urge you all to be missionaries, this gospel can not wait to enter the minds/hearts of our friends. Share your excitement with them and focus on the message of the restoration. Learn and review the articles of faith. Have a family testimony meeting and set family goals. I love you all and know that you all are already amazing. Hunter, the b-ball is fun at the mtc! Thank you for your note. Mom, thank you for the note in my scriptures, it brought me joy in a harder time.
Tonight is temple night and devotional, as well as district meting which I will conduct. I’m so excited. I understand my purpose. Please read preach my gospel (pmg), It will strengthen your testimonies and show you how to teach our neighbors. I will let you know of my email ASAP. Please know how much I love and miss you all. I am a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and there is nothing I’d rather be. I love you family (word written in Korean). Let me know how each of you are doing.
The church is more true then ever,
Elder Britsch
Britsch (Elder written in Korean)
Dear Family, Sept. 16, 2008
I’m enjoying my time at the MTC. Today is my preparation day. I’m trying to email but my time is short and computers are in short supply. It feels like a month has passed but my time is flying by. My district is amazing. It consists of Elders Glines, Bogner, Caldwell, Skousen and Sisters Jensen, Gold, Eager, and Muyhihann. All Elders are going to Seoul –west as well as Sister Gold. The sisters came to the MTC with an already extensive Korean language mastery (the Elders are just trying to catch up). On Sunday I was unexpectedly called as the District Leader. I say unexpectedly mainly because I’ve felt very impressed by the other Elders and because I’ve struggled with the language initially. I’ve received confirmation that as I trust the Lord and go through my trials of faith (humbling) He will make-up for my weaknesses and make them strong. Ether 12:27,6 have been on my mind. I’ve also had repeated confirmation that my district has limitless potential and will convert thousands by means I am not yet aware. The spirit is awesome here. My branch pres. (Pres. Carlson) was a BYU professor and knows Grandpa Britsch and Pres. Pack and has family in Houston. He reassured me that you all were o.k. with the status updates on the hurricane. I got your letter yesterday, it was uplifting. Thank you. I’m sorry dad missed the blow-out game.
My companion is a wrestler (285 lbs.) from West Valley, Ut. He has an awesome memory and gospel knowledge that has impressed and benefitted me.
I am learning Korean slowly but it surprises me each day how far I have come. I can now bare testimony, pray, and introduce myself in Korean. We have been told by Pres. Carlson and our teachers that Korean is the 2nd hardest language at the MTC after Finnish, and when you add the Asian culture on top of that, it is said to be the hardest. That gives me comfort in my struggles.
I need a list of email contacts and addresses, my old black quad scriptures especially (ASAP!), my colored pages of new testament typed notes and other church pages found in my green storage bin found in my closet (anything I can read and use for knowledge that is lightweight and paper), and letters!
I have seen Alan Reinjes, Collin Nicholas, Garret Johnson, and other BYU friends.
Now, I must preach to the family (smile). I must urge you all to be missionaries, this gospel can not wait to enter the minds/hearts of our friends. Share your excitement with them and focus on the message of the restoration. Learn and review the articles of faith. Have a family testimony meeting and set family goals. I love you all and know that you all are already amazing. Hunter, the b-ball is fun at the mtc! Thank you for your note. Mom, thank you for the note in my scriptures, it brought me joy in a harder time.
Tonight is temple night and devotional, as well as district meting which I will conduct. I’m so excited. I understand my purpose. Please read preach my gospel (pmg), It will strengthen your testimonies and show you how to teach our neighbors. I will let you know of my email ASAP. Please know how much I love and miss you all. I am a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and there is nothing I’d rather be. I love you family (word written in Korean). Let me know how each of you are doing.
The church is more true then ever,
Elder Britsch
Britsch (Elder written in Korean)
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Happy Birthday Jen!
Birthdays are good for you. Statistics show that the people who have the most live the longest...
For all that you do and for the person you are, wishing you a very happy birthday!! - Steve, Aub, Brin, and Camp
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Elder Britsch's setting apart - Sept. 7th, 2008
Elder McKay BritschMcKay's mission MTC mailing address is
Elder Carl McKay Britsch
MTC Mailbox #347
KOR-SEOW 1124
2005 N. 900 E.
Provo, Utah 84604-1793
McKay has a mission web site at www.missionsite.net Enter missionary name: C. McKay Britsch
Calm before the storm
This is footage of the beautiful sky the night just hours before Hurricane Ike came in and hammered Houston. It really was "the calm before the storm".
Hurricane Ike Aftermath
We all learned that you don't mess with mother nature. It was a crazy night. Lots of strange noises, fierce rain and wind gusts and howling of the wind throughout the night. Saturday afternoon we surveyed the damage. Luckily we only lost one small tree that hit our fence and some flattened bushes but other than that all looked good. Our neighbors did not fair so well....
We feel blessed in our area compared with the devastation in Galveston.The calm before the storm
This is how the sky looked the evening before the storm started around 11 pm.
The sky was eerily beautiful.
The wind starts to pick up!Thursday, September 11, 2008
Happy Birthday Ashley!
Ashley's Birthday was on Labor Day, so it was great to have the day off to able to celebrate it. We went down to Surfside Beach and Galveston, and also had a pool party at Rich and Beck's house with a BBQ and cake and ice cream. It was a great time. Happy Birthday Ashley!!
Mom and Dad's Anniversary
Here are some pictures of Mom and Dad's Anniversary that we celebrated in Houston.
We love you!
We are now Texans
Hey everyone. We finally have a moment to write and show some pictures. My law school classes were cancelled today and tomorrow for Hurricane Ike. Yeah...everybody just keeps telling us "welcome to Texas"...like it supposed to make us feel better, but at least it gives me time to post on the blog. There are more at our blog at...thechillschills.blogspot.com....
Yes...I felt I finally achieved my manhood as I drove a 17 foot truck with a car attached on a trailer in back of it for 1500 miles. I just basically put on the turn signal and said "Get out of the way!"
The newest Texans
Ashley insisted that I have a "first day of school" picture
After weeks of searching we finally moved into an apartment near the downtown. Here is the picture of the outside of our complex
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