Week 49: Getting used to change....

This week was good. It flew by. This week I had my first MLC. We were able to discuss a lot about how to better the mission, especially in reducing the number of cars.

Also this week we put Helen on date for baptism for October 14th. She happily accepted. She is still concerned with her smoking and how she is going to quit. We offered to give her a blessing and she accepted. The best part was when she decided to just come sit down on the ground in front of Elder Blow, a member, and I so we could give her a blessing. We all looked at each other and tried our best not to start laughing. So we all laid our hands on her head, as we sat on the couch, and gave her a blessing. One of the strangest blessings I've given but the spirit was so strong. I love this lady so much. As we were leaving she grabbed Elder Blow by the cheeks and called him sweetheart. Highlight of my week. Well almost.
The highlight of my week was being able to conduct my first ever baptism interview. Let me tell you. It was a sacred experience. I was able to interview a young 11 year old boy named Innocent. After I got to know him a bit, we started with a prayer. I was privileged with being able to offer that prayer. As I began the spirit filled the room and tears filled my eyes. I had just met this young boy but my heart was filled with so much love for him. At such a young age he had such a strong desire to be baptized. It didn't take me long to receive the prompting that he was ready for baptism. 
On Sunday we had a Book of Mormon fireside. That was a bit of a flop. Not many people came. We had to compete with the Stake choir. The stake presidency told us to go ahead and still hold it at the same time. Let's just say most people were at choir. 
Also this week was transfer news. Elder Blow will be leaving. He will be going to Pimville in Soweto. Right next to Protea Glen. Our birthplace. My new companion is Elder Siale. He is from Tonga. I don't know much about him. He has been on mission almost 18 months I believe. He has also been serving the past couple months in Sidwashine in Swaziland. Ryland's old area. I am excited to talk with him about that and his time there. I've only been here for 3 weeks but I feel like I know the area well enough. It will be fun. 
Today a member took Elder Blow and I to a Lion Park/Game Reserve. That was a lot of fun. There were some Americans there. Let's just say I know what an American accent sounds like now lol. As I talked to them they said they weren't sure if I was from America or not because I had a hint of a South African accent. I guess we will see when I come home. But this week was good. I had many testimony building experiences this week. I love you all. 
Love, Elder Rash

Eating "chicken dust" ordered from the side of the road

He says they are his new favorites!

Lion Park