For several weeks we have been announcing to the members that the world’s greatest missionary would be here this evening for sacrament meeting. In introducing him I pointed out that he speaks 35 different languages, that he has been a missionary during his entire life, having been born for that very purpose. As all servants of God, he was prepared from childhood for his mission. He loves to recount his missionary experiences, having already served in all parts of the world. His message is one of peace and happiness, showing how to live and how to approach God. He teaches the value and necessity of prayer, giving promise to all that they may know, as he already knows, of the truthfulness of the restored gospel. He teaches the beautiful truths of the gospel in their simplicity and purity, his purpose being to convince Jew and Gentile that Jesus is the Christ. As any missionary, he has a companion, the Holy Bible. Our missionary guest is none less than the Book of Mormon.
I then related the story of Samuel H. Smith, who sold a Book of Mormon to a Protestant minister, John P. Greene. He gave it in turn to a relative called Phineas Young, who was converted and gave the book to his brother Brigham. This latter, together with his brothers and wife and aged father, was converted. Brigham loaned the book to a friend, Heber C. Kimball, who also was converted. The book finally ended up with Joseph F. Smith. He gave it as a gift to his son Joseph Fielding Smith, the present President of the Church and prophet of the Lord. This one book helped convert two presidents of the Church, one apostle, and thousands of their relatives and friends.
Then I asked if the members would like to distribute a book that could convert future prophets and apostles. Edmilson and Inez came up at this point and demonstrated how they could easily loan a book to their friends. After a little more explanation, I committed them to placing the Book of Mormon with their friends. As an introduction to all this, the elders sang a special musical number, “Um anjo lá no ceu” [“An Angel from on High”]. Alexandre, Aldo’s son, also spoke as the first speaker.
The World Cup in soccer began today in Mexico and will continue for some three weeks until a world championship is earned. Brazil plays its first game on Wednesday. The more vital games are televised live to Brazil via satellite. England holds the title now, having won in 1966. Brazil has won twice in the past.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Saturday, May 30, 1970
MIA held its opening night this evening under the direction of the new leadership, Edmilson Pereira and Inez Tenório. The MIA had died somewhat before my arrival in Maceió, and its reopening was an animating stimulus for the branch. Ten investigator youth, about half the total number present, attended and fully enjoyed themselves. Elder Camargo taught the lesson on the history and purposes and programs of the MIA organizations. The activity following the lesson was called forced talent. As a person’s name was drawn from a hat, he in turn drew from another hat what he had to do. It proved to be quite interesting. The entire evening was considered a smashing success.
This afternoon Elders Bradshaw and Blackham taught a first lesson to Sr. Benedito and his family. They seemed to accept rather well. Elder Camargo and I spent the afternoon at the church. He met with the MIA board and helped them in their plans. I had a good talk with Virginia about the Relief Society and Primary and what we might do to organize them.
This morning we visited Adolfina. Yesterday we saw Apolinário.
This afternoon Elders Bradshaw and Blackham taught a first lesson to Sr. Benedito and his family. They seemed to accept rather well. Elder Camargo and I spent the afternoon at the church. He met with the MIA board and helped them in their plans. I had a good talk with Virginia about the Relief Society and Primary and what we might do to organize them.
This morning we visited Adolfina. Yesterday we saw Apolinário.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Friday, May 29, 1970
This evening we held an investigator fireside at Aldo’s home. Our theme, “Seek and Ye Shall Find,” was designed to teach the necessary steps in gaining a testimony. We started with a treasure hunt in which three teams were searching for three necessary ingredients to make Q-Suco: the water, the sugar, and the Q-Suco powder. We had spent the afternoon hiding the clues all over the house. It was a lot of fun, and everybody really enjoyed it. Afterwards Elder Camargo spoke briefly about testimony, making the comparison with the game and showing that all three ingredients were necessary. The essential parts in building a testimony are study, church attendance (or commandment keeping), and prayer. Vera, the investigator of the other two elders, bore her testimony. Edmilson bore his. And then I, as conductor of the meeting, also bore my testimony. Following the fireside we had refreshments and played more games. Eight nonmembers were present.
Irmã Virginia told me tonight that Aldo had sold the kombi and that the kids did not yet know about it. She did not tell me why, but there must be some financial difficulties. She indicated they would not be buying a new car.
Irmã Virginia told me tonight that Aldo had sold the kombi and that the kids did not yet know about it. She did not tell me why, but there must be some financial difficulties. She indicated they would not be buying a new car.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Thursday, May 28, 1970
Elder Camargo and I worked together today. Our morning was dedicated to passing out convites to the fireside tomorrow evening. Being another Brazilian holiday, Corpus Christi Day, nobody was at home and everything in town was closed down. In the afternoon we taught a third lesson to Irmão Luis, his wife, and their son (the one who attended the district conference in Recife on Sunday). The son is by far the sharpest and may be the only one to be baptized. They are all so super busy that the elders have only been giving lessons on holidays.
We also visited José Damasceno, a member who is inactive and was reportedly a padre in the Brazilian Catholic Church (a break-off from the Roman Catholic Church). He is an interesting person, seems to have had a testimony at one time but does not now have one. He is not a padre, although the position has been offered to him. If he ever were to accept, he would be the only Catholic priest in Brazil who had ever held the priesthood of God. He was cordial, even singing a few hymns for us, and showing us all his literature about the church, and insisted that we return to visit. His reason for leaving the Church was Aldo, so he said.
In the evening we visited Aldo and discussed our earlier visit to Damasceno. Aldo told us the entire branch history and about nearly every member’s history as a member of the branch. We ended up spending the entire evening there. Most of the inactive members blame Aldo for their inactivity, which is at once ridiculous because they are each individually responsible for their own lack of faith and testimony and understanding, while through it all Aldo hung in there firm, lacking jeito to be sure, but ever faithful. I feel convinced that Aldo’s call to be branch president by President Hicken, and his continuance in that office under President Johnson, was inspired. Perhaps he needed to test the faith of others. Perhaps he served as president during a period when he himself would have left the Church had he not been held in by the job. Now he is stronger, and the need is past. Perhaps the Lord had other purposes served which cannot now be seen. I am impressed with the thought that the history of the Maceió Branch alone proves the Church is true. What other organization with so few members and so many problems could last for four years?
Anyway, the evening spent with Aldo was instructive and useful. Our job now is to build a new branch and convert people to the gospel, whether they be investigators or members.
While working today with Elder Camargo, we had a good discussion of the blessing powers and rights of the priesthood.
We also visited José Damasceno, a member who is inactive and was reportedly a padre in the Brazilian Catholic Church (a break-off from the Roman Catholic Church). He is an interesting person, seems to have had a testimony at one time but does not now have one. He is not a padre, although the position has been offered to him. If he ever were to accept, he would be the only Catholic priest in Brazil who had ever held the priesthood of God. He was cordial, even singing a few hymns for us, and showing us all his literature about the church, and insisted that we return to visit. His reason for leaving the Church was Aldo, so he said.
In the evening we visited Aldo and discussed our earlier visit to Damasceno. Aldo told us the entire branch history and about nearly every member’s history as a member of the branch. We ended up spending the entire evening there. Most of the inactive members blame Aldo for their inactivity, which is at once ridiculous because they are each individually responsible for their own lack of faith and testimony and understanding, while through it all Aldo hung in there firm, lacking jeito to be sure, but ever faithful. I feel convinced that Aldo’s call to be branch president by President Hicken, and his continuance in that office under President Johnson, was inspired. Perhaps he needed to test the faith of others. Perhaps he served as president during a period when he himself would have left the Church had he not been held in by the job. Now he is stronger, and the need is past. Perhaps the Lord had other purposes served which cannot now be seen. I am impressed with the thought that the history of the Maceió Branch alone proves the Church is true. What other organization with so few members and so many problems could last for four years?
Anyway, the evening spent with Aldo was instructive and useful. Our job now is to build a new branch and convert people to the gospel, whether they be investigators or members.
While working today with Elder Camargo, we had a good discussion of the blessing powers and rights of the priesthood.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Wednesday, May 27, 1970
The following lines slipped out of my pen a few days ago:
And prophets there are that walk in our day:A boy, a quest, a prayerful search, a sacred grove. One hundred and fifty years ago this spring the boy Joseph walked into a quiet grove and came out a different person and the world a better place for his having prayed. The Restoration was to be of such importance that God the Eternal Father and His Son Jesus Christ, the God of this earth, both personally appeared to begin its ushering in.
Men of God,
Men of wisdom and vision,
Who raise heaven-inspired warning
For all who will follow.
For where there is no vision,
People perish
And nations flounder and men walk in darkness
At noon-day.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Monday, May 25, 1970
Our weekly district meeting this evening was devoted to making specific plans about how we might implement President Johnson’s instructions to build the branch and help the members. Project Testimony is our plan to teach all the families, active or inactive, the six missionary discussions. The end result is to convert them to the gospel and help them build their testimonies by committing them to daily prayer, weekly church attendance, and regular study of the gospel. We also made plans for a fireside Friday evening, the opening of MIA Saturday evening, and the Book of Mormon placement program Sunday evening.
With President Johnson’s permission, all the districts in the North will continue with their preparation day on Monday instead of switching to Tuesday as the rest of the mission has done.
Today is Gene and Cheryl’s wedding anniversary. I wrote letters to them and also to Dale, Jerry, Ray and Sheryl, and home. This afternoon we saw The Chairman, a spy show I had already seen before.
Tonight we held home evening with Aldo and family.
With President Johnson’s permission, all the districts in the North will continue with their preparation day on Monday instead of switching to Tuesday as the rest of the mission has done.
Today is Gene and Cheryl’s wedding anniversary. I wrote letters to them and also to Dale, Jerry, Ray and Sheryl, and home. This afternoon we saw The Chairman, a spy show I had already seen before.
Tonight we held home evening with Aldo and family.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Sunday, May 24, 1970
Elder Bradshaw slept again in the rêde last night, and I took again to the floor, a little more prepared this time. Underneath me were two big pieces of Styrofoam, a rêde, blankets, pillows, sheets, and towels to soften the floor. Elders Camargo and Blackham did not care braving the floor again and went to a hotel for the night.
This morning, when we arrived at the chapel, I learned I was late for a branch presidents meeting that I had never been informed of. At ten o’clock began the general session of the quarterly conference of the Pernambuco District. Attending from Maceió were Aldo and his family. Edmilson came with them. A 17-year-old boy in a family being taught by the other elders, named Luis, also came. Highlighting the conference were talks by President and Sister Johnson. The Recife Relief Society served a meal for everybody attending from branches out of the city. After eating, saying good-bye to the Johnsons, taking pictures, and driving around the city, including a visit to the airport, we all headed for Maceió in Aldo’s kombi [Volkswagen bus]. We arrived home near 8:30, fairly tired.
This morning, when we arrived at the chapel, I learned I was late for a branch presidents meeting that I had never been informed of. At ten o’clock began the general session of the quarterly conference of the Pernambuco District. Attending from Maceió were Aldo and his family. Edmilson came with them. A 17-year-old boy in a family being taught by the other elders, named Luis, also came. Highlighting the conference were talks by President and Sister Johnson. The Recife Relief Society served a meal for everybody attending from branches out of the city. After eating, saying good-bye to the Johnsons, taking pictures, and driving around the city, including a visit to the airport, we all headed for Maceió in Aldo’s kombi [Volkswagen bus]. We arrived home near 8:30, fairly tired.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Saturday, May 23, 1970
The floor was hard last night, and sleep was not always the order of the night. I finished my talk for the conference before we left for the chapel on Rua das Ninfas in Boa Vista. A lovely chapel. President Johnson, flying in from Fortaleza, was nearly an hour and a half late, putting everything that much behind schedule. It was wonderful seeing President and Sister Johnson again. They are special people.
The conference theme, “Man Know Thyself,” was considered from the following aspects: (1) knowing who you are, a child of God, possessing Godlike qualities and potentials; (2) respecting that divinely born person, you; (3) guarding your “me intake”; and (4) standing up for yourself, being true to your own convictions. As always the remarks by President Johnson were timely and inspiring. Because everything was running late, the President had time to interview only the junior companions.
Following the testimony session of the conference, all the elders resorted to a certain school to play a quick basketball tournament. Each district was a four-member team. Each game lasted 15 minutes. We learned that Maceió was rated number two, behind Elder Christiansen (Recife zone leader), who is quite a basketball player, and his district. Our first game was against them, and we lost miserably. They went on to capture the tournament, while we took consolation, tying for second place. Sister Johnson kept score and time. A zone-against-zone volleyball game had also been planned, but we ran out of time.
In the evening we headed for the Boa Viagem beach, near the hotel of that name, where President and Sister Johnson were staying. I made an opportunity to speak with the President about Maceió and the branch and its many problems. His instructions were to spend more time on member and branch work and less on proselyting. He is concerned about the branch and does not want to close it. He plans to visit Maceió on his next visit north in about two months.
Rain has been falling nearly all day, and we expected at any moment to be rained out as we gathered on the beach. It did sprinkle a few times on us, but it turned out a lovely evening. We sat on the beach around a roaring fire, eating a fried chicken sack lunch dinner, listening for nearly two hours while President Johnson told us his life story, with particular emphasis on his mission experiences in Brazil in the early 1940s. Those were rich moments listening to him. If time later permits, I will here recount some of what he related.
The conference theme, “Man Know Thyself,” was considered from the following aspects: (1) knowing who you are, a child of God, possessing Godlike qualities and potentials; (2) respecting that divinely born person, you; (3) guarding your “me intake”; and (4) standing up for yourself, being true to your own convictions. As always the remarks by President Johnson were timely and inspiring. Because everything was running late, the President had time to interview only the junior companions.
Following the testimony session of the conference, all the elders resorted to a certain school to play a quick basketball tournament. Each district was a four-member team. Each game lasted 15 minutes. We learned that Maceió was rated number two, behind Elder Christiansen (Recife zone leader), who is quite a basketball player, and his district. Our first game was against them, and we lost miserably. They went on to capture the tournament, while we took consolation, tying for second place. Sister Johnson kept score and time. A zone-against-zone volleyball game had also been planned, but we ran out of time.
In the evening we headed for the Boa Viagem beach, near the hotel of that name, where President and Sister Johnson were staying. I made an opportunity to speak with the President about Maceió and the branch and its many problems. His instructions were to spend more time on member and branch work and less on proselyting. He is concerned about the branch and does not want to close it. He plans to visit Maceió on his next visit north in about two months.
Rain has been falling nearly all day, and we expected at any moment to be rained out as we gathered on the beach. It did sprinkle a few times on us, but it turned out a lovely evening. We sat on the beach around a roaring fire, eating a fried chicken sack lunch dinner, listening for nearly two hours while President Johnson told us his life story, with particular emphasis on his mission experiences in Brazil in the early 1940s. Those were rich moments listening to him. If time later permits, I will here recount some of what he related.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Friday, May 22, 1970
This morning we worked a normal schedule. In the afternoon we worked on a jogral, a sort of choral reading, for tomorrow night’s talent show. We have two numbers, a serious one being a poem by S. Dilworth Young entitled “Samuel H. Smith, the Missionary” and a not so serious one called “The Great Apostasy,” dealing with girls who write dear johns. We also spent time packing and further preparing to catch our four o'clock bus.
The trip between Maceió and Recife is rather beautiful, especially at dusk. The sunset was enchanting and reminiscent of Idaho sunsets.
Elders Bradshaw and Camargo are half expectant that one of them will be transferred at this conference. They both have served in Maceió nearly six months. Elder Bradshaw has been here in the North just three days short of a year.
We arrived in Recife at about 8:30 this evening, hoping to have beaten the elders from Campina Grande. They arrived at 4:00. Therefore, we headed for a hotel and met Elder Brinton and Dabbling, who offered one rêde [hammock] and their floor for the rest of us. Since the price was right, we took them up on it.
The trip between Maceió and Recife is rather beautiful, especially at dusk. The sunset was enchanting and reminiscent of Idaho sunsets.
Elders Bradshaw and Camargo are half expectant that one of them will be transferred at this conference. They both have served in Maceió nearly six months. Elder Bradshaw has been here in the North just three days short of a year.
We arrived in Recife at about 8:30 this evening, hoping to have beaten the elders from Campina Grande. They arrived at 4:00. Therefore, we headed for a hotel and met Elder Brinton and Dabbling, who offered one rêde [hammock] and their floor for the rest of us. Since the price was right, we took them up on it.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Wednesday, May 20, 1970
Yesterday we received O Desafio, the mission’s monthly publication for missionaries, by mail from Rio. There is much change in the mission. For instance, preparation day has been moved from Monday to Tuesday. There are many new zones in the mission, probably more zones now than there were districts when I arrived a year and a half ago. Maceió is in the new Recife Zone. The old North Zone is now the zones of Fortaleza, João Pessoa, and Recife. President Johnson’s editor’s page article indicated more change would be forthcoming. Elder Stewart was transferred from Nova Friburgo to be a zone leader in Belo Horizonte just about a week after I came to Maceió.
Today we received notice of a regional missionary conference in Recife on Saturday. It sounds as if the conferences are changing also, because there will be an organized sports activity in the afternoon following the second session and a talent show of some type in the evening. I have been assigned to give a 15-minute talk on the subject “Stand Up for Yourself, Being True to Your Own Convictions.”
We have been quite sore these days because of our Monday basketball game.
Tonight we split up with Aldo and Edmilson to do home teaching.
Today we received notice of a regional missionary conference in Recife on Saturday. It sounds as if the conferences are changing also, because there will be an organized sports activity in the afternoon following the second session and a talent show of some type in the evening. I have been assigned to give a 15-minute talk on the subject “Stand Up for Yourself, Being True to Your Own Convictions.”
We have been quite sore these days because of our Monday basketball game.
Tonight we split up with Aldo and Edmilson to do home teaching.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Monday, May 18, 1970
I sent the following letter today to Elders Evan A. Ballard, Jeff Boswell, and Steve Hill:
“To my beloved friends and brothers,
“’Ever and always startling is the swiftness with which time goes, the speed at which life passes. My departed hours—where are they? The poet asked in anguish. The weeks seem hours only.’ As time slips ever away, this thought from Richard L. Evans seems appropriate. How starkly true the thought, the realization that weeks seem hours only. A missionary appreciates such a thought, wishing at moments that time were his control. It is with this thought in mind that I choose once again to resort to mass communication tactics.
“The richness and goodness of life is at times nearly over-whelming. My life is busy and full, but even fuller is the gratitude of an overflowing heart for the blessings I enjoy. Life itself is a great privilege—it is a joy to live in this glorious dispensation of time. I count my family and friends and you, my associates in the work of the Lord, as among my greatest blessings. We are members of the Church of Jesus Christ, we hold the priesthood of God, we are elders in Israel, we have a knowledge of the truthfulness of this ‘marvelous work and a wonder.’ The pure love of Christ, as scripturally termed, has swelled within my heart to expand into happiness and joy.
“Since my last communication with most of you, we have lost a beloved leader and prophet, President David O. McKay. His kindly counsel, his loving wisdom, his grateful example are missed. There is no doubt of the glorious homecoming he has had on the other side. And there is no doubt that President Joseph Fielding Smith is anointed of the Lord to preside among us now, standing as His prophet and mouthpiece. But I loved President McKay. Although never having met him personally (I have been in his presence), I feel the loss of a personal friend. In his life, more than in any other man of this generation, could I see in perfection a truly Christlike life. As Harold B. Lee explained at his funeral, ‘As a special witness of our Lord and Master, he lighted the lamps of faith of many by the intensity of the fire within his own soul.’ I like that. He lighted the lamps of faith . . . by the intensity of the fire within his own soul!
“On this day I stand particularly humbled, aware a bit more of my relationship with God and the trust that is mine. Yesterday I was appointed president of the branch of Maceió. Coupled with the responsibility of being a missionary and a district leader, I sense more than ever a necessity to rely on the Lord. Here I am presiding over the most important organization in the state of Alagoas, the Church of Jesus Christ. This is the Lord’s work. It cannot fail. To that degree that we allow ourselves to be instruments in His hands we shall be suc-cessful.
“With all of you I share the solemn witness that is mine. God lives. Jesus Christ is the Son of God and our Savior. This Church was organized by Christ Himself through a prophet called Joseph Smith. The kingdom is rolling forth.
“Upon my mind recently has been impressed the thoughts: He who would be a disciple of Jesus Christ must be the servant of all. Righteousness is power. Sacrifice brings forth heaven’s blessings. The gospel, when its ordinances and principles are faithfully obeyed, is the power of God unto salvation; it is real; here and now our lives can be changed, uplifted, sanctified.
“May heaven’s blessings be more fully ours as we continue in the great trust committed to our care. I subscribe myself your friend and brother, [signed].”
This morning at the SESC we played basketball for about two hours. It has been a long time since I’ve done that. A bit of stiffness has set in already.
Our scheduled home evening with Aldo did not happen because he had to travel to Recife to pick up some parts for his shop. We did have a good talk with Irmã Virginia. All reading assignments will continue until next week.
“To my beloved friends and brothers,
“’Ever and always startling is the swiftness with which time goes, the speed at which life passes. My departed hours—where are they? The poet asked in anguish. The weeks seem hours only.’ As time slips ever away, this thought from Richard L. Evans seems appropriate. How starkly true the thought, the realization that weeks seem hours only. A missionary appreciates such a thought, wishing at moments that time were his control. It is with this thought in mind that I choose once again to resort to mass communication tactics.
“The richness and goodness of life is at times nearly over-whelming. My life is busy and full, but even fuller is the gratitude of an overflowing heart for the blessings I enjoy. Life itself is a great privilege—it is a joy to live in this glorious dispensation of time. I count my family and friends and you, my associates in the work of the Lord, as among my greatest blessings. We are members of the Church of Jesus Christ, we hold the priesthood of God, we are elders in Israel, we have a knowledge of the truthfulness of this ‘marvelous work and a wonder.’ The pure love of Christ, as scripturally termed, has swelled within my heart to expand into happiness and joy.
“Since my last communication with most of you, we have lost a beloved leader and prophet, President David O. McKay. His kindly counsel, his loving wisdom, his grateful example are missed. There is no doubt of the glorious homecoming he has had on the other side. And there is no doubt that President Joseph Fielding Smith is anointed of the Lord to preside among us now, standing as His prophet and mouthpiece. But I loved President McKay. Although never having met him personally (I have been in his presence), I feel the loss of a personal friend. In his life, more than in any other man of this generation, could I see in perfection a truly Christlike life. As Harold B. Lee explained at his funeral, ‘As a special witness of our Lord and Master, he lighted the lamps of faith of many by the intensity of the fire within his own soul.’ I like that. He lighted the lamps of faith . . . by the intensity of the fire within his own soul!
“On this day I stand particularly humbled, aware a bit more of my relationship with God and the trust that is mine. Yesterday I was appointed president of the branch of Maceió. Coupled with the responsibility of being a missionary and a district leader, I sense more than ever a necessity to rely on the Lord. Here I am presiding over the most important organization in the state of Alagoas, the Church of Jesus Christ. This is the Lord’s work. It cannot fail. To that degree that we allow ourselves to be instruments in His hands we shall be suc-cessful.
“With all of you I share the solemn witness that is mine. God lives. Jesus Christ is the Son of God and our Savior. This Church was organized by Christ Himself through a prophet called Joseph Smith. The kingdom is rolling forth.
“Upon my mind recently has been impressed the thoughts: He who would be a disciple of Jesus Christ must be the servant of all. Righteousness is power. Sacrifice brings forth heaven’s blessings. The gospel, when its ordinances and principles are faithfully obeyed, is the power of God unto salvation; it is real; here and now our lives can be changed, uplifted, sanctified.
“May heaven’s blessings be more fully ours as we continue in the great trust committed to our care. I subscribe myself your friend and brother, [signed].”
This morning at the SESC we played basketball for about two hours. It has been a long time since I’ve done that. A bit of stiffness has set in already.
Our scheduled home evening with Aldo did not happen because he had to travel to Recife to pick up some parts for his shop. We did have a good talk with Irmã Virginia. All reading assignments will continue until next week.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Sunday, May 17, 1970
This morning in Sunday School the district president, Alfredo Miranda, and the president of the Recife Branch, Evaldo de Oliveira, the latter a member of only seven months, paid us a visit. They came to release Aldo Tenório as president of the Maceió Branch. I was sustained in his place. Aldo was called and accepted a call to serve as Sunday School superintendent.
Both of the brethren took the opportunity to speak to the branch membership. Aldo was quite pleased with the change, as he indicated in his sacrament meeting talk this evening. The move seemed to be an animating one for the branch. Certain inactive members have indicated that they would return when Aldo was no longer branch president, using him as their excuse for their inactivity. Now we shall see what they will do with their excuse removed.
The two brethren from Recife dined with us at Aldo’s home before their return to Recife.
Tonight I presided over my first sacrament meeting. Speakers were Aldo Tenório, Simone Tenório, and Elder Bradshaw. The congregation sang “Dos montes nos temos a força” [“Firm as the Mountains around Us”] as a special musical number. That excited them. Only 14 people were present.
Both of the brethren took the opportunity to speak to the branch membership. Aldo was quite pleased with the change, as he indicated in his sacrament meeting talk this evening. The move seemed to be an animating one for the branch. Certain inactive members have indicated that they would return when Aldo was no longer branch president, using him as their excuse for their inactivity. Now we shall see what they will do with their excuse removed.
The two brethren from Recife dined with us at Aldo’s home before their return to Recife.
Tonight I presided over my first sacrament meeting. Speakers were Aldo Tenório, Simone Tenório, and Elder Bradshaw. The congregation sang “Dos montes nos temos a força” [“Firm as the Mountains around Us”] as a special musical number. That excited them. Only 14 people were present.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Saturday, May 16, 1970
Every night without fail we have a ceremony designed to insure a reasonable night’s sleep. Due to the popularity of mosquitoes, we have a net that hangs all over our beds to keep the rasty little pests out. As we pull it down each night, there begins a five- or ten-minute ritual of killing, by clapping our hands upon them, the braver ones who insist on staying inside.
On Thursday I worked with Elder Bradshaw in our area while Elder Blackham worked with Elder Camargo in the other area. Our efforts were all tracting. During the afternoon we spoke with a man who had been Pentecostal but could not take the fanaticism involved therein (his own words). His mind was tickled and challenged by the idea of apostles and prophets on the earth today. He marked a visit with us.
Yesterday a new monetary system went into effect in Brazil. The cruzeiro novo has been replaced by a new denomination known just as cruzeiro. The new notes, colorfully bright bills of modern design, are being printed here in Brazil. Before all money was printed in England and the United States. One new cruzeiro has the same value as an old cruzeiro novo (or 1.000 cruzeiros velhos), popularly called conto, or conno in missionary talk.
On Thursday I worked with Elder Bradshaw in our area while Elder Blackham worked with Elder Camargo in the other area. Our efforts were all tracting. During the afternoon we spoke with a man who had been Pentecostal but could not take the fanaticism involved therein (his own words). His mind was tickled and challenged by the idea of apostles and prophets on the earth today. He marked a visit with us.
Yesterday a new monetary system went into effect in Brazil. The cruzeiro novo has been replaced by a new denomination known just as cruzeiro. The new notes, colorfully bright bills of modern design, are being printed here in Brazil. Before all money was printed in England and the United States. One new cruzeiro has the same value as an old cruzeiro novo (or 1.000 cruzeiros velhos), popularly called conto, or conno in missionary talk.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Tuesday, May 12, 1970
Upon my mind recently have been impressed the following thoughts: He who would be a disciple of Jesus Christ must be the servant of all. Righteousness is power. Sacrifice brings forth heaven’s blessings. The gospel, when its ordinances and principles are faithfully obeyed, is the power of God unto salvation; it is real; here and now our lives can be changed, uplifted, sanctified.
Yesterday, being preparation day, we attended Charly, a film about a mentally retarded person who becomes a genius following a certain operation but finally reverts back to his original condition. It had some significant social commentary. In district meeting we discussed changes in the handbook, goals, and faith. In relation to the latter, I told the story of Jonathon and his armor bearer discovering themselves unto the Philistines (see 1 Samuel 14). We held family home evening with Aldo after spending the early evening tracting.
Today we directed our tracting efforts to Vergel, a very poor section of the city. The lineage population is quite high, nearly everybody, and our methods are to stop at houses where lighter kids are playing in front, or at houses that are newer or recently painted or well kept, or at houses that we feel inspired to hit up.
Yesterday, being preparation day, we attended Charly, a film about a mentally retarded person who becomes a genius following a certain operation but finally reverts back to his original condition. It had some significant social commentary. In district meeting we discussed changes in the handbook, goals, and faith. In relation to the latter, I told the story of Jonathon and his armor bearer discovering themselves unto the Philistines (see 1 Samuel 14). We held family home evening with Aldo after spending the early evening tracting.
Today we directed our tracting efforts to Vergel, a very poor section of the city. The lineage population is quite high, nearly everybody, and our methods are to stop at houses where lighter kids are playing in front, or at houses that are newer or recently painted or well kept, or at houses that we feel inspired to hit up.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Sunday, May 10, 1970
Reading in the March Improvement Era, I was most impressed with what President Joseph Fielding Smith had to say on his first Editor’s Page concerning testimony. Note this: “It is my firm conviction that every member of this Church should be able to bear witness and declare by words of soberness that these things are true, that the Book of Mormon is true, that the destiny of this latter-day work is true, and that, according to the revelations, it must and will be fulfilled.”
And for those who have not such a witness, he outlines how to obtain it. I am grateful that I have such a knowledge and am commissioned to declare it to the world.
Today is Mother’s Day. Significant in today’s meetings was the organization of the MIA, with Edmilson and Inez called to serve as superintendent and president. Alexandre will serve as secretary. Elder Blackham spoke in sacrament meeting. Word came of a district conference May 24 in Recife with President Johnson attending. That means there will be a zone conference and hopefully a visit by the President here in Maceió. Following sacrament meeting Elder Camargo held an orientation meeting with the new MIA board. He has much MIA experience. While waiting, we were working up a musical number.
And for those who have not such a witness, he outlines how to obtain it. I am grateful that I have such a knowledge and am commissioned to declare it to the world.
Today is Mother’s Day. Significant in today’s meetings was the organization of the MIA, with Edmilson and Inez called to serve as superintendent and president. Alexandre will serve as secretary. Elder Blackham spoke in sacrament meeting. Word came of a district conference May 24 in Recife with President Johnson attending. That means there will be a zone conference and hopefully a visit by the President here in Maceió. Following sacrament meeting Elder Camargo held an orientation meeting with the new MIA board. He has much MIA experience. While waiting, we were working up a musical number.
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Friday, May 8, 1970
Last night Elder Prisbrey and I taught an interest lesson to a man named Idaleme and his family (it would have been a first but time prevented that) and then a second lesson to Agatânjalo. He was very interested in the Book of Mormon but merely for intellectual curiosity and not for the spiritual message it conveys.
During the earlier part of the day Elder Camargo and I tracted together. This is the second time I had worked with him. Last fall, while he was in Tijuca and I in Ramos, we had spent a morning together while Elder Gibbs and Ferrin, whom I was working with that day, got together for a song practice.
Today is transfer time. Last night about 11:30 an elder arrived from Fortaleza to replace Elder Prisbrey. His name is Elder Dana Blackham. He pounded on the door, clapped, and shouted but could not awaken us. He finally awoke the other two elders and spent the night there. This morning we learned of his presence.
Elder Prisbrey left at 6:00 P.M. for Recife, where he will be laboring now. He spent the day packing and getting ready to go. This afternoon he told Virginia and some of the kids good-bye and spoke with Aldo on the phone.
During the earlier part of the day Elder Camargo and I tracted together. This is the second time I had worked with him. Last fall, while he was in Tijuca and I in Ramos, we had spent a morning together while Elder Gibbs and Ferrin, whom I was working with that day, got together for a song practice.
Today is transfer time. Last night about 11:30 an elder arrived from Fortaleza to replace Elder Prisbrey. His name is Elder Dana Blackham. He pounded on the door, clapped, and shouted but could not awaken us. He finally awoke the other two elders and spent the night there. This morning we learned of his presence.
Elder Prisbrey left at 6:00 P.M. for Recife, where he will be laboring now. He spent the day packing and getting ready to go. This afternoon he told Virginia and some of the kids good-bye and spoke with Aldo on the phone.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Wednesday, May 6, 1970
The neighbors loaned us a record player for the week, and we borrowed an album of the Tabernacle Choir, The Lord’s Prayer, from Aldo to play during our meals for a few days. Certainly an inspiring back-drop for any occasion!
Rain again. This afternoon we took advantage of not being able to tract and grabbed a bus to Fernão Velho, a little town about 45 minutes out of Maceió, to check it out as a possibility as a working area. It is a peaceful village snuggled against the green hills and nestled beside the Mandaú Lake, charming in this beautiful setting. A textile mill seems to be the only attraction to the place. The inhabitants are very poor, and the lineage very high, making it useless as a present working area.
This evening, for the first time, we took time out because of further rain to go to the chapel and work on the records. All week I have tried to get Aldo’s help, but he has been very busy. Everything but the financial report I was able to take care of without his aid.
Elder Prisbrey is a good man. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with him. His loyal support and friendly companionship are greatly appreciated.
Rain again. This afternoon we took advantage of not being able to tract and grabbed a bus to Fernão Velho, a little town about 45 minutes out of Maceió, to check it out as a possibility as a working area. It is a peaceful village snuggled against the green hills and nestled beside the Mandaú Lake, charming in this beautiful setting. A textile mill seems to be the only attraction to the place. The inhabitants are very poor, and the lineage very high, making it useless as a present working area.
This evening, for the first time, we took time out because of further rain to go to the chapel and work on the records. All week I have tried to get Aldo’s help, but he has been very busy. Everything but the financial report I was able to take care of without his aid.
Elder Prisbrey is a good man. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with him. His loyal support and friendly companionship are greatly appreciated.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Monday, May 4, 1970
A few days ago a letter came from Karen. It was good to hear from her once again. I thrilled to share in her happiness and joy. At the end of May she is being married in the Salt Lake Temple to a young man from her BYU ward, the elders quorum president. It sounds like she is in good hands. I returned today a letter of congratulations.
Yesterday was fast Sunday. In preparation for it, Saturday evening Aldo, Edmilson, and the four elders went out as home teachers to contact all the members, active and inactive, to invite them to the meetings. Investigators were expected, and we wanted a sharp and full meeting. For the meetings yesterday attendance was normal, and only one investigator showed up, but the Spirit’s influence was strongly felt. In Sunday School I taught a lesson on fast offerings and tithes, which turned out successful according to Aldo’s remarks in testimony meeting because it seems to have reconverted him to that principle of the gospel.
A delicious Sunday dinner followed the meetings at Aldo’s home, including a big luscious chocolate cake baked for Elder Bradshaw’s birthday.
Sunday afternoon I received my first letters from home since arrival in Maceió, five all at once that were forwarded from Rio. One was from Dale. The rest were from Jerry, containing newspaper clippings about conference. From what some of the Brethren indicate it appears that the so-called “golden age” of Mormonism may be passing and we can expect a few storms ahead with good old-fashioned (and likely some new) persecution. Elder Prisbrey and I discussing it during the afternoon were impressed at the close timing between President McKay’s passing and the breaking of the storms related to the Church’s lineage doctrine.
I wrote the following letter to Jerry: “Yesterday and today I received your letters, forwarded from Rio, that you sent April 9 and April 14, including all the conference clippings. Thanks so muchly for all that—news is slow in reaching this corner of the world.
“It sounds like the ‘golden age’ of Mormonism, so called, is an era that is passing. Notice how closely timed was the passing of President McKay with the breaking of the first storms. Each president of the Church has played a particular role, was the best man to lead the development of the kingdom in his own time. President McKay made the Church worldwide and respected. President Smith is just the man to lead us through gathering storms. This is the Lord’s work. He is at the helm and the work cannot fail. And all of us with a burning testimony, given of God, of the divinity of this latter-day work will follow the counsel of heaven-inspired apostles and prophets and not the whims and sophistries and cunning devices of men.
“It is my prayer that everything is going well on the home front. It sounds like life is a joy. May the Lord’s blessings ever be with you.”
Today was a day of rest and preparation and business. I had pictures taken, visited a tailor to have a pair of pants made, bought a Mother’s Day card, wrote several letters, filled out reports, etc. District meeting at five o’clock centered on the theme of spirituality. Elder Camargo gave a talk on that subject.
We visited Aldo and family tonight for home evening. We briefly discussed their reading assignments and then held a family inventory session, with ways each member suggested that the family might improve.
Yesterday was fast Sunday. In preparation for it, Saturday evening Aldo, Edmilson, and the four elders went out as home teachers to contact all the members, active and inactive, to invite them to the meetings. Investigators were expected, and we wanted a sharp and full meeting. For the meetings yesterday attendance was normal, and only one investigator showed up, but the Spirit’s influence was strongly felt. In Sunday School I taught a lesson on fast offerings and tithes, which turned out successful according to Aldo’s remarks in testimony meeting because it seems to have reconverted him to that principle of the gospel.
A delicious Sunday dinner followed the meetings at Aldo’s home, including a big luscious chocolate cake baked for Elder Bradshaw’s birthday.
Sunday afternoon I received my first letters from home since arrival in Maceió, five all at once that were forwarded from Rio. One was from Dale. The rest were from Jerry, containing newspaper clippings about conference. From what some of the Brethren indicate it appears that the so-called “golden age” of Mormonism may be passing and we can expect a few storms ahead with good old-fashioned (and likely some new) persecution. Elder Prisbrey and I discussing it during the afternoon were impressed at the close timing between President McKay’s passing and the breaking of the storms related to the Church’s lineage doctrine.
I wrote the following letter to Jerry: “Yesterday and today I received your letters, forwarded from Rio, that you sent April 9 and April 14, including all the conference clippings. Thanks so muchly for all that—news is slow in reaching this corner of the world.
“It sounds like the ‘golden age’ of Mormonism, so called, is an era that is passing. Notice how closely timed was the passing of President McKay with the breaking of the first storms. Each president of the Church has played a particular role, was the best man to lead the development of the kingdom in his own time. President McKay made the Church worldwide and respected. President Smith is just the man to lead us through gathering storms. This is the Lord’s work. He is at the helm and the work cannot fail. And all of us with a burning testimony, given of God, of the divinity of this latter-day work will follow the counsel of heaven-inspired apostles and prophets and not the whims and sophistries and cunning devices of men.
“It is my prayer that everything is going well on the home front. It sounds like life is a joy. May the Lord’s blessings ever be with you.”
Today was a day of rest and preparation and business. I had pictures taken, visited a tailor to have a pair of pants made, bought a Mother’s Day card, wrote several letters, filled out reports, etc. District meeting at five o’clock centered on the theme of spirituality. Elder Camargo gave a talk on that subject.
We visited Aldo and family tonight for home evening. We briefly discussed their reading assignments and then held a family inventory session, with ways each member suggested that the family might improve.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Saturday, May 2, 1970
During the past two days we had visitors from Recife, Elders Christiansen, zone leader, and Dabbling. They arrived Thursday at noon and left last evening to make the four-hour bus trip back to Recife. Elder Christiansen worked with Elder Camargo Thursday afternoon, Elder Bradshaw Thursday night, Elder Prisbrey Friday morning, and me Friday afternoon. A special district meeting held yesterday gave Elder Christiansen an opportunity to speak to us. He was quite impressed with the city of Maceió. He chose in his talk to emphasize spirituality. Having the elders here in the city was an animating experience for all of us.
Elder Prisbrey was mentioning that every time the zone leader visits things go wrong and abnormal conditions exist. Yesterday was another Brazilian holiday, the equivalent of our Labor Day. Therefore nothing was open, and when Dona Creuza showed up she had been unable to buy anything for breakfast. We just happened to be out of food. Dona Creuza has been sick, and we decided to send her home for the day. We bopped up to the Sayonara for breakfast (and later for lunch), only to find it closed. We ate lunch in an expensive restaurant, breakfast in a bar.
Today is Elder Bradshaw’s 21st birthday. He has been very sick with a bad cold, having spent last evening in bed. Today he seems a bit better. Thursday morning, before the elders from Recife showed up, I worked with Elder Bradshaw for the first time. He is a good man.
Thursday evening we taught a first lesson to a doctor name Agatânjalo Vasconcellos. His first name is a Greek word meaning “good messenger.” He completely followed the lesson and its logic, realizing our message made sense, but he is not looking for anything better in his life and has no desire to be a part of it, nor to find out for himself if it is true.
Early Thursday morning, about 3:30, I awoke to find raindrops dripping on my bed and me. A most disconcerting development! It had been raining hard all night and finally started to leak in. I got up, still half asleep, to fetch Elder Prisbrey’s raincoat to try to defend myself.
The mail brought glad tidings yesterday: report forms from the mission office. We have been out for some time.
Elder Prisbrey was mentioning that every time the zone leader visits things go wrong and abnormal conditions exist. Yesterday was another Brazilian holiday, the equivalent of our Labor Day. Therefore nothing was open, and when Dona Creuza showed up she had been unable to buy anything for breakfast. We just happened to be out of food. Dona Creuza has been sick, and we decided to send her home for the day. We bopped up to the Sayonara for breakfast (and later for lunch), only to find it closed. We ate lunch in an expensive restaurant, breakfast in a bar.
Today is Elder Bradshaw’s 21st birthday. He has been very sick with a bad cold, having spent last evening in bed. Today he seems a bit better. Thursday morning, before the elders from Recife showed up, I worked with Elder Bradshaw for the first time. He is a good man.
Thursday evening we taught a first lesson to a doctor name Agatânjalo Vasconcellos. His first name is a Greek word meaning “good messenger.” He completely followed the lesson and its logic, realizing our message made sense, but he is not looking for anything better in his life and has no desire to be a part of it, nor to find out for himself if it is true.
Early Thursday morning, about 3:30, I awoke to find raindrops dripping on my bed and me. A most disconcerting development! It had been raining hard all night and finally started to leak in. I got up, still half asleep, to fetch Elder Prisbrey’s raincoat to try to defend myself.
The mail brought glad tidings yesterday: report forms from the mission office. We have been out for some time.
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