"Love is one of the chief characteristics of Deity, and ought to be manifested by those who aspire to be the sons of God. A man filled with the love of God, is not content with blessing his family alone, but ranges through the whole world, anxious to bless the whole human race" (Joseph Smith Jr., Dec. 15, 1840; in Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1969], 174).

"All I can offer the world is a good heart and a good hand" (Joseph Smith Jr., July 9, 1843; in Teachings, 313).

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Monday, January 26, 1970

A letter to my family:

Once again I have seen the miracle of happiness happen in the lives of those who accept and live the gospel. The family we baptized a week ago are now different people, now living a new life. They are so happy at the church that they would like to spend their whole time there. It is certainly humbling to realize how much they think of my companion and me. To them we are what perfection is. What a great responsibility is ours not to injure their new and growing faith! She asked me to express to you the next time I wrote home her love and gratitude, especially to you Mom. She thinks you must be the luckiest, happiest parents in the world.

Zion is growing here in Rio. The branch we are serving in is to be divided shortly. You can understand why considering that in January alone 40 converts were baptized into that branch. At the district conference last week the official number in attendance was 1,100, one hundred more than the goal President Johnson set for us to start thinking about becoming a stake. The Meier Branch, in which we labor, had 340 members and 70 nonmember visitors in attendance. As soon as the branch is divided, one of the branches will begin building a new chapel.

The weather has been remarkably good for summer—so far. Today is trying to rain.

This Friday we will be holding again zone conference. That is always a special experience.

Thanks for all your love and support. I hope this letter finds you all in health and happiness.

P.S. Could you find and send pictures of the Salt Lake Temple? Post cards would be great. Thanx!

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