Today was the grand opening of the Primary of the Maceió Branch. Irmã Virginia, the president, did a great job conducting, although she didn’t think she could. Elder Blackham is both music director and secretary. Zezira teaches the younger class, and Elder Smith temporarily teaches the older group. I am the organist.
Opening exercises was highlighted when seven-year-old Richard Versteegh went up to the podium, twice knocked over the little bench he had to stand on to be able to see over the podium, about killing himself, and boomed out in his big outdoor voice the standard: “Seja reverente” [“Be reverent”]. It had to be a classic.
Virginia told Elder Blackham a little about our friend Captain George. She said he was a suspicious character that caused problems the last time he was here. If Virginia, who never speaks evil of others, says that there must be something sneaky going on. Elder Sarager told us on the weekend that he had seen him in Rio and that he had borrowed money from President Johnson. Captain George says he has not yet had the pleasure of meeting the President. He is beginning to look fishier and fishier all the time.
Today ends the first half of 1970. This time is really slipping away fast.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Monday, June 29, 1970
The rest of the elders from Recife showed up today about 1:00. They all wanted to play beach soccer. I was already done in by the couple hours we spent playing volleyball this morning. Therefore, Elders Smith and Sarager and I decided to go to the show while everybody else played. Without thinking I took the key to the church with me, and nobody could enter to fetch the ball. They went to the SESC gym and were able to play futebol de salão there.
At 5:00 all 16 elders met at the church for our zone meeting. The theme was “When Thou Art Converted, Strengthen Thy Brethren.” I really enjoyed the talks prepared and the testimony session. Elder Christiansen recommitted us to our member goals.
Elders Camargo and Prisbrey were glad to be back in Maceió today. Aldo’s family was out of town and did not see them. Elder Blackham and I had home evening marked with them tonight. We showed up, and the house was dark and shut. We decided to wait a little while for them and had a really good discussion sitting on their front wall. The Recife elders had left at 7:00.
A letter to my family: “Yesterday I received a letter from Mom and was grateful to hear from her and to know that everybody was OK. I hope this letter finds everybody healthy and happy. The past week was rather exciting and full, to wit:
“Monday. It was our regular preparation day and also a holiday because of Brazil’s victory over Italy in soccer the day before.
“Tuesday. Another holiday, which prevented much work on our part. In the morning we taught a lesson. In the afternoon and evening we went to the farm of one of the member families (about 45 minutes out of town by car) to celebrate the eve of São João’s. We had a big bonfire (a standard São João ingredient) and lots of food and fireworks. It was certainly a wonderful opportunity to get closer to the two families participating.
“Wednesday. Today was São João’s Day (John the Baptist’s birthday supposedly). In the evening we held a branch home evening. We had told everybody that a special family from out of town was coming to demonstrate how to hold home evening. In reality the four elders were the family and nobody ever expected what was happening. I was the mother in the family. Everybody enjoyed the evening so much. At the end, following a talent show, we sang a song about Brazil that is so beautiful. Then three of the elders continued singing softly while the remaining elder bore his testimony, expressed his love to the members, mentioned our gratitude and love for Brazil and her wonderful people. The emotion of the moment was electric.
“Thursday. Today we helped an elderly couple move into a new house. We cleaned up for them, arranged their furniture like they wanted it, etc. They were grateful for the help.
“Friday. In the branch we are starting a project to have everybody reading the Book of Mormon this year. For each family we are making a big colorful reading chart. Our objective is to have them read a little every day instead of a bunch once or twice a week. The reasoning is that daily contact with the scriptures makes it easier to be in touch with the Spirit, because as the promise we make each week at the sacrament table indicates, we are then remembering Christ always so that His Spirit might be with us.
“Saturday. Another lesson taught this morning. Today two elders (one of them the zone leader) came from Recife to spend three days with us. Tonight at MIA we had a São João party, again with a campfire and all corn-made food (corn cake, corbread, corn-on-the-cob, corn pudding, popcorn, etc.). It was fun and we had the biggest turnout since I’ve been here (34 people).
“Sunday. Following sacrament meeting we showed a new film out about the Three Witnesses. Fifty-four people attended, the most I’ve seen crowded into our little chapel at once. A fantastic film.
“Monday. This morning we played volleyball for a couple hours. About noon six more elders came from Recife, and we held later in the afternoon a zone meeting (with 12 elders present). It was an instructive and inspirational session.
“Well, this is about an average week in the life of a missionary in Maceió. I really shouldn’t say average, because no week is really average. Each has a personality all its own. Many are the moments and experiences that a missionary would not trade for anything: a member with tears in his eyes thanking you for strengthening his family, a daily testimony meeting with your companion when your hearts and souls share love and testimony, kneeling in nightly prayer and pleading for the welfare of others. It is a marvelous work and a wonder, and I am grateful to be associated in it. I send my love and gratitude to all of you.
“P.S. Have a happy Fourth of July. Speaking of holidays, pretty soon I will be 21. Please check soon to see what is necessary to participate in the November election by absentee ballot. Thanx!”
At 5:00 all 16 elders met at the church for our zone meeting. The theme was “When Thou Art Converted, Strengthen Thy Brethren.” I really enjoyed the talks prepared and the testimony session. Elder Christiansen recommitted us to our member goals.
Elders Camargo and Prisbrey were glad to be back in Maceió today. Aldo’s family was out of town and did not see them. Elder Blackham and I had home evening marked with them tonight. We showed up, and the house was dark and shut. We decided to wait a little while for them and had a really good discussion sitting on their front wall. The Recife elders had left at 7:00.
A letter to my family: “Yesterday I received a letter from Mom and was grateful to hear from her and to know that everybody was OK. I hope this letter finds everybody healthy and happy. The past week was rather exciting and full, to wit:
“Monday. It was our regular preparation day and also a holiday because of Brazil’s victory over Italy in soccer the day before.
“Tuesday. Another holiday, which prevented much work on our part. In the morning we taught a lesson. In the afternoon and evening we went to the farm of one of the member families (about 45 minutes out of town by car) to celebrate the eve of São João’s. We had a big bonfire (a standard São João ingredient) and lots of food and fireworks. It was certainly a wonderful opportunity to get closer to the two families participating.
“Wednesday. Today was São João’s Day (John the Baptist’s birthday supposedly). In the evening we held a branch home evening. We had told everybody that a special family from out of town was coming to demonstrate how to hold home evening. In reality the four elders were the family and nobody ever expected what was happening. I was the mother in the family. Everybody enjoyed the evening so much. At the end, following a talent show, we sang a song about Brazil that is so beautiful. Then three of the elders continued singing softly while the remaining elder bore his testimony, expressed his love to the members, mentioned our gratitude and love for Brazil and her wonderful people. The emotion of the moment was electric.
“Thursday. Today we helped an elderly couple move into a new house. We cleaned up for them, arranged their furniture like they wanted it, etc. They were grateful for the help.
“Friday. In the branch we are starting a project to have everybody reading the Book of Mormon this year. For each family we are making a big colorful reading chart. Our objective is to have them read a little every day instead of a bunch once or twice a week. The reasoning is that daily contact with the scriptures makes it easier to be in touch with the Spirit, because as the promise we make each week at the sacrament table indicates, we are then remembering Christ always so that His Spirit might be with us.
“Saturday. Another lesson taught this morning. Today two elders (one of them the zone leader) came from Recife to spend three days with us. Tonight at MIA we had a São João party, again with a campfire and all corn-made food (corn cake, corbread, corn-on-the-cob, corn pudding, popcorn, etc.). It was fun and we had the biggest turnout since I’ve been here (34 people).
“Sunday. Following sacrament meeting we showed a new film out about the Three Witnesses. Fifty-four people attended, the most I’ve seen crowded into our little chapel at once. A fantastic film.
“Monday. This morning we played volleyball for a couple hours. About noon six more elders came from Recife, and we held later in the afternoon a zone meeting (with 12 elders present). It was an instructive and inspirational session.
“Well, this is about an average week in the life of a missionary in Maceió. I really shouldn’t say average, because no week is really average. Each has a personality all its own. Many are the moments and experiences that a missionary would not trade for anything: a member with tears in his eyes thanking you for strengthening his family, a daily testimony meeting with your companion when your hearts and souls share love and testimony, kneeling in nightly prayer and pleading for the welfare of others. It is a marvelous work and a wonder, and I am grateful to be associated in it. I send my love and gratitude to all of you.
“P.S. Have a happy Fourth of July. Speaking of holidays, pretty soon I will be 21. Please check soon to see what is necessary to participate in the November election by absentee ballot. Thanx!”
Monday, June 28, 2010
Sunday, June 28, 1970
Sacrament meeting was a miracle tonight with 50 people attending! Our little chapel was really packed. The meeting was good and a bit shorter than usual. Elders Christensen and Christiansen, the zone leader one, spoke. Immediately after the meeting, we showed a sharp new film on the lives of the Three Witnesses. The elders had brought the film from Recife. The members really seemed to enjoy it. I guess this shows how to get a good attendance every week: show a film every Sunday. Pois é.
This morning Elder Sarager gave a 2½-minute talk in Sunday School. All six of us ate dinner at Aldo’s house. Elder Blackham and I spent part of the afternoon working on Book of Mormon reading charts for Apolinário and Nádia and Hévia. Later we dropped by to see Nádia and take their chart. Nádia told us about her boyfriend, Esdras. He seems to be a sharp young man. I met him at last night’s party and was impressed. He is a Baptist. Hévia’s boyfriend, Petrónio, is bad news. He is drawing her from the Church. That is precisely the same problem Suely Santos faces right now. Her boyfriend is a super-dink. He attended the party last night and ruined her night. He did not say a single word to anybody all evening.
This morning Elder Sarager gave a 2½-minute talk in Sunday School. All six of us ate dinner at Aldo’s house. Elder Blackham and I spent part of the afternoon working on Book of Mormon reading charts for Apolinário and Nádia and Hévia. Later we dropped by to see Nádia and take their chart. Nádia told us about her boyfriend, Esdras. He seems to be a sharp young man. I met him at last night’s party and was impressed. He is a Baptist. Hévia’s boyfriend, Petrónio, is bad news. He is drawing her from the Church. That is precisely the same problem Suely Santos faces right now. Her boyfriend is a super-dink. He attended the party last night and ruined her night. He did not say a single word to anybody all evening.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Saturday, June 27, 1970
About noon today Elder Terry Christensen, our zone leader, and Elder Sarager arrived from Recife to spend a few days working with us. This afternoon Elder Sarager went with Elder Blackham, and Elder Christiansen worked with me at the church. During the evening we all attended MIA’s São João party. There was a casamento matutu (a hillbilly marriage), a bonfire, food of various types all made of corn, and games. Aldo brought some fellows from work to play the guitar and sing hillbilly music.
Today a man named Captain George Silav arrived on the scene, a very strange sort of fellow. He is a sea captain, he says, of Romanian birth and American citizenship and has lived about the last eight years in Brazil. He has supposedly been a member about that long. He speaks English so very badly. He was here in Maceió about two and a half years ago, and there seems to have been some friction. I don’t think he likes Aldo. At tonight’s party I thought he rather made a fool of himself at times. His Portuguese is about as hard to understand as his English.
The visiting elders are spending the night with Aldo’s family.
Today a man named Captain George Silav arrived on the scene, a very strange sort of fellow. He is a sea captain, he says, of Romanian birth and American citizenship and has lived about the last eight years in Brazil. He has supposedly been a member about that long. He speaks English so very badly. He was here in Maceió about two and a half years ago, and there seems to have been some friction. I don’t think he likes Aldo. At tonight’s party I thought he rather made a fool of himself at times. His Portuguese is about as hard to understand as his English.
The visiting elders are spending the night with Aldo’s family.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Friday, June 26, 1970
This afternoon with Virginia we organized and planned out the first Primary meeting, which will be held next Tuesday from 4:30 to 5:30. We plan to form a special children’s choir to sing when President and Sister Johnson come for branch conference sometime at the end of July.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Thursday, June 25, 1970
As Elder Blackham and I bopped by Apolinário’s house this morning, we found all the furniture piled onto a truck. They were moving out on us, going to the end of the world, Gruta. We went with them to help them move into their new house. In the afternoon all four of us returned to help them clean up, straighten things out, do some electrical wiring, etc.
Tonight Elder Blackham and I visited a real winner while tracting. As soon as we hit him up, he told us that the very Bible proved Christ to be a fraud. We asked about all the many witnesses who saw the resurrected Lord. He answered that that was further proof that He never died. All the prophets who had foreseen and predicted His earthly mission were parts of the grande mentira, the great lie. Our testimonies fell on closed ears.
Tonight Elder Blackham and I visited a real winner while tracting. As soon as we hit him up, he told us that the very Bible proved Christ to be a fraud. We asked about all the many witnesses who saw the resurrected Lord. He answered that that was further proof that He never died. All the prophets who had foreseen and predicted His earthly mission were parts of the grande mentira, the great lie. Our testimonies fell on closed ears.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Wednesday, June 24, 1970
Tonight we held one of the most memorable firesides of my missionary career. The branch was expecting a sharp member family from out of town, from São Paulo they had decided somehow, that was coming to show them how to hold home evening. The family was none else than Irmão João, the father, played by Elder Smith; Irmã Barbara, the mother, played by Elder Cleverly; Maria Aparícia, a daughter, by Elder Blackham; and Joãozinho, a son, by Elder Christensen. In all our preparations the most difficult part to figure out was how we were going to arrive at Aldo’s house without causing suspicion. We all four showed up at Aldo’s house. Then Elders Blackham and Christensen left to pick up a hypothetical investigator family that Elder Smith happened to remember at that moment. Elder Cleverly left with the unsuspecting Aldo for the bus station, via our house, to pick up the arriving family. Elder Smith stayed at Aldo’s house to keep things under control (he was already dressed in his suit). The other three of us changed quickly. Using a shoehorn, I had to get into a white dress Dona Creuza had brought for us. Aldo about died laughing when he found out what was happening. Arriving back at this house, where Elder Smith had just barely started the opening song, we slipped in the kitchen door and surprised them all. It was a shocker!
We had a quick home evening demonstration and some talent numbers. As we ended the home evening, Elder Smith announced that his family wanted to sing their favorite song, “Brasil,” which we did:
Brasil, bela terra do sul,
Lindas palmeiras contra o céu tão azul,
Praias brancas ao luar, suave brisa do mar.
Brasil, terra de meu amor,
Onde eu vivia entre o povo do Senhor,
Anunciando aos seus, boas novas dos céus.
Eu vou partir p’ra bem longe daqui,
Eu vou sentir saudades de ti,
Porém um dia eu voltarei para então renovar
A amizade sem par, com todos os Santos de Deus.
Then we hummed it again as Elder Smith expressed our love and gratitude for the Brazilian members and bore his testimony. It was an emotionally charged moment. Although not part of the program but fitting into it very well, Aldo arose and delivered a moving thank-you speech to the elders particularly and the members generally.
Pedro Maia and his wife Umbelina, Adolfino, and Sônia and Simone all attended.
We had a quick home evening demonstration and some talent numbers. As we ended the home evening, Elder Smith announced that his family wanted to sing their favorite song, “Brasil,” which we did:
Brasil, bela terra do sul,
Lindas palmeiras contra o céu tão azul,
Praias brancas ao luar, suave brisa do mar.
Brasil, terra de meu amor,
Onde eu vivia entre o povo do Senhor,
Anunciando aos seus, boas novas dos céus.
Eu vou partir p’ra bem longe daqui,
Eu vou sentir saudades de ti,
Porém um dia eu voltarei para então renovar
A amizade sem par, com todos os Santos de Deus.
Then we hummed it again as Elder Smith expressed our love and gratitude for the Brazilian members and bore his testimony. It was an emotionally charged moment. Although not part of the program but fitting into it very well, Aldo arose and delivered a moving thank-you speech to the elders particularly and the members generally.
Pedro Maia and his wife Umbelina, Adolfino, and Sônia and Simone all attended.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Tuesday, June 23, 1970
Today is the Véspera de São João, June’s biggest celebration. Aldo invited us to go with his family to spend the afternoon and evening with Cecil’s family at Cecil’s fazenda. Seeing no possibility of getting any work done, but without permission from President Johnson, I decided alone that we could go. The cítio is located about 45 minutes from Maceió (Aldo’s driving time) near Atalaia. We left about 3:00 P.M. At the farm Cecil and Zezira had prepared a great meal, including churrasco (shish kabob) on a big bonfire, an essential part of any São João party. We played several games, sang some songs, set off quite a few bombs (another essential feature) and some fire balloons. It was a great deal of fun. On the way back Aldo was driving at times 160 km/h in a hard rain. Quoting Elder Blackham, “That was enough to scare the livin’ day lights out of us.”
Alagoas is really a very pretty state, at least what I have seen of it. Brazil is a great and beautiful nation with unlimited potential. Today offered a wonderful chance to get to know and love our members a little better.
Alagoas is really a very pretty state, at least what I have seen of it. Brazil is a great and beautiful nation with unlimited potential. Today offered a wonderful chance to get to know and love our members a little better.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Monday, June 22, 1970
The excitement of the day is Brazil’s glorious 4 to 1 victory over Italy in yesterday’s final game of the World Cup in Mexico City. The Jules Rimet Cup retires to Brazil since this is Brazil’s third win. As the game ended, carnival broke out all over Brazil. Three days of holiday were planned, but the president of the Republic decreed only today and tomorrow as holidays. Wednesday already is São João’s Day.
Yesterday morning in Sunday School we had a visit from Elder Coleman, a counselor in the district presidency. He delivered a sharp talk on faith and testimony. He returned to Recife at noon.
Elder Blackham and I went with Aldo Sunday afternoon to give a blessing to the baby brother of Sonia and Simone, Richard Sabino Tenório. Born with glaucoma, he is almost completely blind. Soon he will be taken to Belo Horizonte for an operation. I feel so humbled every time I’m called upon to give a blessing. The Lord helping, things should turn out pretty well for him.
Today we ate Italian spaghetti at the home of Humberto Soares, a celebration party for Brazil’s victory. A lot of people were there. Elder Blackham sang a couple numbers with a guitar. That is always a lovely experience. Early in the morning we played volleyball at the SESC.
Yesterday morning in Sunday School we had a visit from Elder Coleman, a counselor in the district presidency. He delivered a sharp talk on faith and testimony. He returned to Recife at noon.
Elder Blackham and I went with Aldo Sunday afternoon to give a blessing to the baby brother of Sonia and Simone, Richard Sabino Tenório. Born with glaucoma, he is almost completely blind. Soon he will be taken to Belo Horizonte for an operation. I feel so humbled every time I’m called upon to give a blessing. The Lord helping, things should turn out pretty well for him.
Today we ate Italian spaghetti at the home of Humberto Soares, a celebration party for Brazil’s victory. A lot of people were there. Elder Blackham sang a couple numbers with a guitar. That is always a lovely experience. Early in the morning we played volleyball at the SESC.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Saturday, June 20, 1970
Thursday Elder Christensen and I worked together. We visited Apolinário during the morning to mark a visit with him. Then I took Elder Christensen to meet Vera, one of their investigators. Lincoln Jobim, her husband, was home also. She still wants to be baptized; he does not. In the afternoon we tracted. At night we paid a visit to Irmã Adelia, Edmilson’s aunt, and had a nice visit there. This is the first time I had met her.
Friday we finally caught up with Benedito again, the first time since he moved. We marked another lesson for Tuesday afternoon. During the afternoon we met and had a long discussion in English with an Humberto Soares, the director of the Brasil—Estados Unidos Center. We looked him up to see if we could borrow a movie projector from him. He was most friendly, had known earlier elders, and allowed us the use of his machine. In the evening we taught a third lesson to Apolinário and his wife.
Today we taught the last half of the first lesson (on the Restoration) to Adolfina. We bought and took a birthday present to Nádia Amorim. Her birthday is Monday. We gave her a Doctrine and Covenants and a little play blackboard (she is a school teacher). The attendance at MIA was very low tonight. Elder Smith taught the lesson, and we played a form of Password as the activity.
Friday we finally caught up with Benedito again, the first time since he moved. We marked another lesson for Tuesday afternoon. During the afternoon we met and had a long discussion in English with an Humberto Soares, the director of the Brasil—Estados Unidos Center. We looked him up to see if we could borrow a movie projector from him. He was most friendly, had known earlier elders, and allowed us the use of his machine. In the evening we taught a third lesson to Apolinário and his wife.
Today we taught the last half of the first lesson (on the Restoration) to Adolfina. We bought and took a birthday present to Nádia Amorim. Her birthday is Monday. We gave her a Doctrine and Covenants and a little play blackboard (she is a school teacher). The attendance at MIA was very low tonight. Elder Smith taught the lesson, and we played a form of Password as the activity.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Wednesday, June 17, 1970
Project Testimony, our plan to convert all the members, is well underway. Monday evening we taught a second lesson, about the Book of Mormon, to Aldo and his family. The next evening we taught the same lesson to Apolinário and his wife. Tuesday morning we taught Irmã Adolfina but had time only to teach the first part of the lesson, the part about the apostasy. We marked with her to return Saturday morning to teach the second part, the part about the Restoration.
Tonight we held another “Love Our Members” party. We provided ice cream and guaraná again. In appreciation for Irmã Virginia’s many kindnesses to us, we bought her flowers. We made a giant thank-you card, measuring 22 by 30 inches, together with an envelope, for the entire family. In the card was the following verse, which we sang to them to the tune “We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet”:
Damos graças a ti, ó família Tenório,
Pelas bênçãos de ti para nós,
Por todas as coisas que nos deste;
Por isso somos gratos demais.
Agradecemos pur tuas amizades,
Que promanam de ti sôbre nós.
Queremos contentes ajudar-te
E eternamente gozar teu amor.
The motive for this party was Brazil’s glorious victory over Uruguay, 3 to 1, this evening. Now Brazil plays Italy on Sunday in the final game of the World Cup.
During the last few days I have still felt rather sick. Saturday and Sunday I felt like staying in bed but did not. Monday I spent part of the day in bed. Tuesday and today I’ve been up and coughing. Elder Blackham has caught the flu now and is feeling worn out.
Last night following our visit with Apolinário, we visited Pedro do Nascimento. He has been inactive several years, reportedly because of adultery. We had a nice visit and he gave no indication of being an adulterer. He told us his family was very important to him. The big news he had for us was that his wife had had a baby daughter, their fourth child, that very morning. This afternoon Elder Blackham and I visited her in the hospital and took flowers. Mother and child are doing fine.
In district meeting Monday we spent our time planning ways and means to help out the members. Elder Smith was appointed district publicity agent, Elder Blackham music director, and Elder Christensen dinnertime discussion topic (DTDT) coordinator. Elder Blackham, as district leader’s companion, also serves as district historian.
Tonight we held another “Love Our Members” party. We provided ice cream and guaraná again. In appreciation for Irmã Virginia’s many kindnesses to us, we bought her flowers. We made a giant thank-you card, measuring 22 by 30 inches, together with an envelope, for the entire family. In the card was the following verse, which we sang to them to the tune “We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet”:
Damos graças a ti, ó família Tenório,
Pelas bênçãos de ti para nós,
Por todas as coisas que nos deste;
Por isso somos gratos demais.
Agradecemos pur tuas amizades,
Que promanam de ti sôbre nós.
Queremos contentes ajudar-te
E eternamente gozar teu amor.
The motive for this party was Brazil’s glorious victory over Uruguay, 3 to 1, this evening. Now Brazil plays Italy on Sunday in the final game of the World Cup.
During the last few days I have still felt rather sick. Saturday and Sunday I felt like staying in bed but did not. Monday I spent part of the day in bed. Tuesday and today I’ve been up and coughing. Elder Blackham has caught the flu now and is feeling worn out.
Last night following our visit with Apolinário, we visited Pedro do Nascimento. He has been inactive several years, reportedly because of adultery. We had a nice visit and he gave no indication of being an adulterer. He told us his family was very important to him. The big news he had for us was that his wife had had a baby daughter, their fourth child, that very morning. This afternoon Elder Blackham and I visited her in the hospital and took flowers. Mother and child are doing fine.
In district meeting Monday we spent our time planning ways and means to help out the members. Elder Smith was appointed district publicity agent, Elder Blackham music director, and Elder Christensen dinnertime discussion topic (DTDT) coordinator. Elder Blackham, as district leader’s companion, also serves as district historian.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Sunday, June 14, 1970
Pedro Maia, who has been inactive for some bit of time, attended MIA last night and Sunday School this morning. Yesterday morning Elder Smith and I visited him, the second time I have been to his house since my arrival in Maceió, and had a good visit with him and his wife. This afternoon, after our meal at Aldo’s home, Elder Smith and I visited him again to watch Brazil beat Peru 4 to 2 in another World Cup game. Our companions stayed at Aldo’s house to watch the game. We ate with Pedro following the game, the menu being pancakes. He indicated when we left in the late afternoon that he would be at sacrament meeting tonight, but he did not attend. In fact, only 10 were in attendance this evening, counting us four missionaries. Zezira Versteegh and Elder Blackham spoke.
Last night in MIA Elder Smith taught the lesson. Skits followed as the activity. The missionaries provided the best two. The evening was an enjoyable one, even though I felt like being in bed.
Thursday afternoon and all day Friday I stayed in bed again. My cold was bad, likely due to being caught in rain without an umbrella two days in a row and getting in bed late five days in a row. Friday night we taught a first lesson to Irmão Apolinário and his wife.
Last night in MIA Elder Smith taught the lesson. Skits followed as the activity. The missionaries provided the best two. The evening was an enjoyable one, even though I felt like being in bed.
Thursday afternoon and all day Friday I stayed in bed again. My cold was bad, likely due to being caught in rain without an umbrella two days in a row and getting in bed late five days in a row. Friday night we taught a first lesson to Irmão Apolinário and his wife.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Friday, June 12, 1970
When I arrived in Maceió on a Wednesday night nearly two months ago, I attended a party at Aldo’s house. When Elder Smith arrived in Maceió, also on a Wednesday night, he attended a party at Aldo’s house. When Elder Smith was transferred into my district in Ramos last fall, I had been sick, just recovering from bronchitis. When Elder Smith was transferred into my district in Maceió this week, I had been and was sick. Who says history cannot repeat itself?
Aldo drove Elders Bradshaw and Camargo to Recife yesterday afternoon. I was saddened to see them go. During the few months here I had grown close to both of them. They had been together as companions here in Maceió for nearly seven months. They were both good missionaries. I was humbly grateful for their faithful service, their untiring devotion to duty, their simple loyalty. They were working to build the kingdom and were not, as some missionaries, bogged down by any petty problems. Ever they were growing. I cherish their brotherhood and friendship.
Aldo drove Elders Bradshaw and Camargo to Recife yesterday afternoon. I was saddened to see them go. During the few months here I had grown close to both of them. They had been together as companions here in Maceió for nearly seven months. They were both good missionaries. I was humbly grateful for their faithful service, their untiring devotion to duty, their simple loyalty. They were working to build the kingdom and were not, as some missionaries, bogged down by any petty problems. Ever they were growing. I cherish their brotherhood and friendship.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Wednesday, June 10, 1970
Tonight at Aldo’s house we had a “Love Our Members” party. Since Brazil was playing another World Cup game, today against Romania, we took advantage of the situation. Since members always feed us, we bought a big can of Kibon ice cream and 15 bottles of guaraná to celebrate after the game. We also bought fireworks to blow off after each goal. Brazil won 3 to 2.
Our party also became a farewell party and a welcoming party. Let me explain beginning with the fact that yesterday Elder Camargo received a letter from the mission home addressed to Recife. It sort of indicated something might soon be happening. Today we expected a replacement to show up. Right during the middle of the game a taxi pulls up and out bops, of all people, Elder Smith. To our surprise with him was an Elder John Christensen. Both Elders Bradshaw and Camargo were being transferred, to Rio and Recife. Elder Bradshaw will be a district leader in Irajá, replacing Elder Smith. It was certainly a surprise to see Elder Smith gain. Elder Christensen is from the same home ward as my companion, Elder Blackham. A small world!
Our party also became a farewell party and a welcoming party. Let me explain beginning with the fact that yesterday Elder Camargo received a letter from the mission home addressed to Recife. It sort of indicated something might soon be happening. Today we expected a replacement to show up. Right during the middle of the game a taxi pulls up and out bops, of all people, Elder Smith. To our surprise with him was an Elder John Christensen. Both Elders Bradshaw and Camargo were being transferred, to Rio and Recife. Elder Bradshaw will be a district leader in Irajá, replacing Elder Smith. It was certainly a surprise to see Elder Smith gain. Elder Christensen is from the same home ward as my companion, Elder Blackham. A small world!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Tuesday, June 9, 1970
A letter that I wrote yesterday in Recife to my family:
This is a howdy today from Recife. We left this morning at 6:00 from Maceió to make the four-hour trip to Recife for a zone meeting with the other elders there. And so this is being written from the capital of Brazil’s northeast. During the last week I spent three days in bed due to a bad cold. I was feeling kind of down and was cautioning against catching bronchitis again (like I had last fall). Even now I don’t feel any better but am working on it. There is no need to worry though.
Our little branch here has so many problems to overcome. We have had two MIAs now, both of them successful. It is about the only thing running right thus far. The daughter of the former branch president is the new president of the YWMIA, and she put everything she had into making the first one a success (and it surely was). Then Saturday evening on their way to MIA, her dad said it was the worst MIA he had ever attended. When she got to the church, she came to tell us (the elders) and broke down and bawled. Well, last night, being the evening of fast Sunday, we held a branch preparation meeting—which was the first ever. He (the ex-branch president, named Aldo) complained, feeling that too much responsibility was being put on his family. I explained to him that being the only active complete family in such a small branch they had to expect to be busy. Aldo is now Sunday School superintendent. His wife is branch organist, Primary president, and Relief Society president (by the way, she is the sharpest person in the branch). His daughter is YWMIA president, and a son secretary in the YMMIA. He said that having so much to do, he felt imprisoned by the Church and that he could never miss a Saturday or Sunday meeting.
Oh, such a lack of vision! If he could only catch the picture of what the Church and its programs were all about! For a good member of the Church, or for any member as far as that goes, there should never be a second thought about attending church. It is naturally expected. Membership in the Church of Jesus Christ has significance only for those who are expecting to enter the celestial kingdom. It that is not our goal, there is really no reason to be in the Church. At baptism we made some pretty serious covenants, including seeking first the kingdom of God and its righteousness. That means to me simply that the gospel comes first, before anything else, and that perfection needs to be our daily occupation. The Church is to perfect the Saints. We need every help we can get, every single day if necessary. Oh, if we can only enlarge the vision of the members as to the beauty and fulness of the gospel.
Pray hard for us so we can be true in our callings, faithfully fulfilling our stewardships, as guided by the Spirit. I pray for you. I am so humbly grateful for your love and support. May heaven bless you.
This is a howdy today from Recife. We left this morning at 6:00 from Maceió to make the four-hour trip to Recife for a zone meeting with the other elders there. And so this is being written from the capital of Brazil’s northeast. During the last week I spent three days in bed due to a bad cold. I was feeling kind of down and was cautioning against catching bronchitis again (like I had last fall). Even now I don’t feel any better but am working on it. There is no need to worry though.
Our little branch here has so many problems to overcome. We have had two MIAs now, both of them successful. It is about the only thing running right thus far. The daughter of the former branch president is the new president of the YWMIA, and she put everything she had into making the first one a success (and it surely was). Then Saturday evening on their way to MIA, her dad said it was the worst MIA he had ever attended. When she got to the church, she came to tell us (the elders) and broke down and bawled. Well, last night, being the evening of fast Sunday, we held a branch preparation meeting—which was the first ever. He (the ex-branch president, named Aldo) complained, feeling that too much responsibility was being put on his family. I explained to him that being the only active complete family in such a small branch they had to expect to be busy. Aldo is now Sunday School superintendent. His wife is branch organist, Primary president, and Relief Society president (by the way, she is the sharpest person in the branch). His daughter is YWMIA president, and a son secretary in the YMMIA. He said that having so much to do, he felt imprisoned by the Church and that he could never miss a Saturday or Sunday meeting.
Oh, such a lack of vision! If he could only catch the picture of what the Church and its programs were all about! For a good member of the Church, or for any member as far as that goes, there should never be a second thought about attending church. It is naturally expected. Membership in the Church of Jesus Christ has significance only for those who are expecting to enter the celestial kingdom. It that is not our goal, there is really no reason to be in the Church. At baptism we made some pretty serious covenants, including seeking first the kingdom of God and its righteousness. That means to me simply that the gospel comes first, before anything else, and that perfection needs to be our daily occupation. The Church is to perfect the Saints. We need every help we can get, every single day if necessary. Oh, if we can only enlarge the vision of the members as to the beauty and fulness of the gospel.
Pray hard for us so we can be true in our callings, faithfully fulfilling our stewardships, as guided by the Spirit. I pray for you. I am so humbly grateful for your love and support. May heaven bless you.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Monday, June 8, 1970
Yesterday’s violent rains gave way to nicer weather today. At 6:00 this morning we were catching the bus to Recife. We arrived about 10:30 or thereabouts. We ate lunch with the elders in their apartment. At 12:30, having gone to the chapel, we started zone meeting. Elder Christiansen presided and conducted. The bulk of our time we spent learning of a new program in the mission called “hustling and pepping the members.” We will be having a “Love our members week” and finally a branch home evening in which the elders, acting as a family, present a home evening. It sounds like fun. The purpose is to make the members friends so that they, loving and trusting us as missionaries, will give us their friends to teach.
We had planned to see Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid at 4:40, requiring us to catch the leito bus back to Maceió because it was the last one leaving (at 8:00). The leito is twice as expensive as the regular bus. Well, the show did not start until 6:30, making us lose out on both ends. As a substitute, and a poor one at that, we saw a very bad Italian western. It was not dirty, just dumb.
We arrived back in Maceió at midnight.
We had planned to see Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid at 4:40, requiring us to catch the leito bus back to Maceió because it was the last one leaving (at 8:00). The leito is twice as expensive as the regular bus. Well, the show did not start until 6:30, making us lose out on both ends. As a substitute, and a poor one at that, we saw a very bad Italian western. It was not dirty, just dumb.
We arrived back in Maceió at midnight.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Sunday, June 7, 1970
This morning in priesthood meeting I led a discussion of the purposes of the Church and everything done therein: to perfect the Saints and to bring about the immortality and eternal life of man. From here we talked of the three missionary responsibilities of the Church: (1) for the people who do not yet know the gospel, (2) for the members of the Church, and (3) for the dead. We amplified number two in an effort to evaluate our problems in Maceió. We spoke of the need of loving each other and having understanding. Purposely, I was directing the discussion in Aldo’s way, but I’m not certain he fully benefited.
In Sunday School I taught the children’s class as a substitute. We talked about prayer. I asked them if they wanted to bear their testimonies in the following meeting. Most of them did. I love children. Testimony meeting was good.
We dined with Aldo’s family and stayed to watch the first half of the Brazil–England game. During halftime we, the elders and Aldo’s family, went to the home of José Sanchez to attend the daughter’s birthday party. There we watched the rest of the game. Brazil won. The Sanchez family is American, originally from Peru.
This evening we held a preparation meeting for the branch leadership, a new experience for them. Following opening exercises, I met with each organization individually, counseling with them concerning their programs and problems. Opportunity presented itself to call Irmã Zezira Versteegh to be a home Primary teacher. As we met with the Sunday School board, which Aldo superintends, he voiced his disanimation and dissatisfaction. He feels everything in the branch is on the shoulders of him and his family. He feels imprisoned by the Church because he has to stay in town on Saturdays. He feels we are maybe running too fast in organizing the branch and its organizations. We had a good talk but without resolving anything. The discussion helped clarify last night a little better. I feel that Aldo’s vision is being too narrow and that he lacks the ability to love people. He is quite disanimated right now and some family problems are resulting.
Once again as we reached home we held another district council to discuss developments. Since the stewardship over Aldo is mine, I am being particular in searching for inspiration and guidance.
In Sunday School I taught the children’s class as a substitute. We talked about prayer. I asked them if they wanted to bear their testimonies in the following meeting. Most of them did. I love children. Testimony meeting was good.
We dined with Aldo’s family and stayed to watch the first half of the Brazil–England game. During halftime we, the elders and Aldo’s family, went to the home of José Sanchez to attend the daughter’s birthday party. There we watched the rest of the game. Brazil won. The Sanchez family is American, originally from Peru.
This evening we held a preparation meeting for the branch leadership, a new experience for them. Following opening exercises, I met with each organization individually, counseling with them concerning their programs and problems. Opportunity presented itself to call Irmã Zezira Versteegh to be a home Primary teacher. As we met with the Sunday School board, which Aldo superintends, he voiced his disanimation and dissatisfaction. He feels everything in the branch is on the shoulders of him and his family. He feels imprisoned by the Church because he has to stay in town on Saturdays. He feels we are maybe running too fast in organizing the branch and its organizations. We had a good talk but without resolving anything. The discussion helped clarify last night a little better. I feel that Aldo’s vision is being too narrow and that he lacks the ability to love people. He is quite disanimated right now and some family problems are resulting.
Once again as we reached home we held another district council to discuss developments. Since the stewardship over Aldo is mine, I am being particular in searching for inspiration and guidance.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Saturday, June 6, 1970
Although not fully recovered, I am up and out again. Yesterday I stayed in the house during the day. Last night we taught a first lesson to Aldo and family. This afternoon I took Elder Camargo with me to the chapel. He worked with the MIA people, readying for this evening. I had paper work and other assorted details to keep me busy. Virginia was there cleaning, and I called her and interviewed her relative to accepting the job of Primary president. She accepted. For now she is Relief Society president, branch pianist, and now head of the Primary. She has had a very trying week, topped off this morning by having her purse with 100 cruzeiros and all her documents stolen. Aldo told her she should have been more careful.
Tonight when Inez arrived at church, she got Elder Camargo and me (and Betania happened along also) in the office and broke down and bawled. On the way to MIA, Aldo said in front of the entire family that last week’s MIA was the worst he had ever attended. Inez had given her every effort to make it a success—and it had been—only to have her father smash it all in one blow. It further appeared that Aldo did not like the idea of having the MIA on Saturday night, although he was the one who moved it to Saturday from Thursday just before he was released as branch president. Maceió is the first place in all Brazil that I’ve heard of ever holding MIA other than Saturday night. Inez said a weeknight would not work because the afternoon was needed in preparation for the evening’s activities. Perhaps Aldo did not like the first MIA because it was too organized for him. Back in the olden days he used to announce, “Well, now we’ve had the opening song and prayer, let’s pass over into the other room to see what happens.” Following MIA tonight we, the elders, came home and had a discussion session trying to figure out what we might do to help out.
Tonight MIA was likewise good. Edmilson taught the first lesson ever in his life tonight. He was so scared. He did fairly well though. The subject was fasting and prayer. Afterwards, under Elder Camargo’s direction, everybody answered questions taken from the first book of Nephi. He had it arranged like a written test. A week ago it had been announced that everybody needed to read first Nephi.
Tonight when Inez arrived at church, she got Elder Camargo and me (and Betania happened along also) in the office and broke down and bawled. On the way to MIA, Aldo said in front of the entire family that last week’s MIA was the worst he had ever attended. Inez had given her every effort to make it a success—and it had been—only to have her father smash it all in one blow. It further appeared that Aldo did not like the idea of having the MIA on Saturday night, although he was the one who moved it to Saturday from Thursday just before he was released as branch president. Maceió is the first place in all Brazil that I’ve heard of ever holding MIA other than Saturday night. Inez said a weeknight would not work because the afternoon was needed in preparation for the evening’s activities. Perhaps Aldo did not like the first MIA because it was too organized for him. Back in the olden days he used to announce, “Well, now we’ve had the opening song and prayer, let’s pass over into the other room to see what happens.” Following MIA tonight we, the elders, came home and had a discussion session trying to figure out what we might do to help out.
Tonight MIA was likewise good. Edmilson taught the first lesson ever in his life tonight. He was so scared. He did fairly well though. The subject was fasting and prayer. Afterwards, under Elder Camargo’s direction, everybody answered questions taken from the first book of Nephi. He had it arranged like a written test. A week ago it had been announced that everybody needed to read first Nephi.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Thursday, June 4, 1970
Last night Brazil played Czechoslovakia in its first game in the World Cup. The ending score was Brazil 4, Czechoslovakia 1. We watched the game on television, broadcast live from Mexico by satellite, at Aldo’s house. No work was to be done during that game. Every time a goal was made the entire city went up in an uproar, with yelling and fireworks and honking horns and whistles.
In an attempt to kick my cold, which has been getting worse, and to keep from getting bronchitis again, I have spent yesterday and today in bed. When not sleeping, I have been catching up in my journal writing, studying the scriptures, reading the handbook and the district leader’s handbook, taking medicine, prayerfully considering which members should staff the branch organizations, and such assorted tasks. Elder Blackham has read the entire district history and, as district historian, has added a bunch to it. He has also put in a lot of study hours. The only time we left the house was to see the game last night.
In an attempt to kick my cold, which has been getting worse, and to keep from getting bronchitis again, I have spent yesterday and today in bed. When not sleeping, I have been catching up in my journal writing, studying the scriptures, reading the handbook and the district leader’s handbook, taking medicine, prayerfully considering which members should staff the branch organizations, and such assorted tasks. Elder Blackham has read the entire district history and, as district historian, has added a bunch to it. He has also put in a lot of study hours. The only time we left the house was to see the game last night.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Tuesday, June 2, 1970
Yesterday morning we went to the SESC gym to play basketball. After two games I began to feel ill, due to a rasty cold that has been persisting for over a week now. We came home, and I spent nearly all day in bed. Late in the afternoon I had to get up to go cash at the Bank of London & South America Limited. We also had a minor hassle in switching from Aldo’s to my signature on the branch’s account with the bank. District meeting followed. Elder Blackham spoke on the subject of charity, the pure love of Christ. Just as we were leaving for the evening, Aldo dropped by in a car he had just bought. Some kind of French line. We had home evening with him at his place.
Today I was feeling better than I ever was yesterday, but this evening I took a turn for the worse. I elected to stay in bed to see if I could not kick the cold. Elder Bradshaw stayed with me.
A letter today from Elder Christiansen told us to come to Recife Monday for a zone meeting. This is a new change announced at the last conference. At least two zone meetings will be held between each regional conference (which are held every two months). The next time they will come to Maceió.
Today I was feeling better than I ever was yesterday, but this evening I took a turn for the worse. I elected to stay in bed to see if I could not kick the cold. Elder Bradshaw stayed with me.
A letter today from Elder Christiansen told us to come to Recife Monday for a zone meeting. This is a new change announced at the last conference. At least two zone meetings will be held between each regional conference (which are held every two months). The next time they will come to Maceió.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Monday, June 1, 1970
A letter to Jerry:
Reflecting just now on the many blessings I enjoy, I was impressed that one of my choicest blessings is your friendship and brotherhood. I treasure the joyous—and even the more mundane—experiences we have shared together. I sense very fully that your life has been richly blessed since I have been a missionary. For that I am grateful.
One of the priority goals in my life is that of having my calling and election made sure, of receiving that more sure word of prophecy also known as the Second Comforter or the Holy Spirit of Promise. It involves an ever-upward process of purification by faithful and diligent obedience to the principles of the gospel. It necessitates sanctification by the Holy Ghost. And finally it means a readiness to bear the presence of God the Father and Jesus Christ, the mediator of the new covenant, and communion with the general assembly and church of the Firstborn.
Now I think you must know what this is all about. The scriptures, as given by the Spirit, outline somewhat clearly the details necessary for our preparation for this great blessing, a blessing so great and wonderful that the Doctrine and Covenants calls it the greatest gift God can give to man.
Please read my letter this week to the family if you care to know what is keeping me busy these days. May heaven’s blessings continue with you. Remember us in your prayers.
Reflecting just now on the many blessings I enjoy, I was impressed that one of my choicest blessings is your friendship and brotherhood. I treasure the joyous—and even the more mundane—experiences we have shared together. I sense very fully that your life has been richly blessed since I have been a missionary. For that I am grateful.
One of the priority goals in my life is that of having my calling and election made sure, of receiving that more sure word of prophecy also known as the Second Comforter or the Holy Spirit of Promise. It involves an ever-upward process of purification by faithful and diligent obedience to the principles of the gospel. It necessitates sanctification by the Holy Ghost. And finally it means a readiness to bear the presence of God the Father and Jesus Christ, the mediator of the new covenant, and communion with the general assembly and church of the Firstborn.
Now I think you must know what this is all about. The scriptures, as given by the Spirit, outline somewhat clearly the details necessary for our preparation for this great blessing, a blessing so great and wonderful that the Doctrine and Covenants calls it the greatest gift God can give to man.
Please read my letter this week to the family if you care to know what is keeping me busy these days. May heaven’s blessings continue with you. Remember us in your prayers.
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