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AREA PRESIDENCY MESSAGE His Only Begotten Son s we celebrate this Christmas season parent. The Savior knew the plan; He knew we correctly focus our thoughts on He had agreed to come; but now that the Athe birth of the Savior Jesus Christ moment had arrived, the Savior checks one and His infi nite Atonement that heals our last time with His Father, whom He trusts souls and enables us to accomplish our explicitly, to be sure this is the only way. divine purpose. The Savior’s gift to us is Certainly the Father’s heart was breaking remarkable and beyond as the Son made this fi nal plea. comprehension. The Father’s silence leads the My thoughts have turned Savior to say, “Nevertheless not this Christmas however, to my will, but thine, be done.” an equally signifi cant gift (Luke 22:42) Abinadi teaches us that was given by the Father the signifi cance of this moment Elder Brent H. Nielson as He willingly sacrifi ced when he describes the Savior’s Philippines Area His Only Begott en Son. submission with the words, “the Presidency John teaches us that this gift will of the Son being swallowed of sacrifi cing His Son was up in the will of the Father.” motivated by the love the (Mosiah 15:7) My thoughts Father has for us. “For God Because of His love for us the have turned so loved the world that he Father stood by and watched gave his only begott en Son, His Son bleed from every pore this Christmas that whosoever believeth in in the Garden of Gethsemane; however, to him should not perish, but (see D&C 19:18) be scourged; an equally have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) (see Matt hew 27:26) have a crown of thorns signifi cant Ponder for a moment the deep and put into his head: (see Matt hew 27:29; be gift that was incomprehensible love that the Father has spit upon; (see Matt hew 27:30) and be for you that would cause Him to allow His crucifi ed on the cross. (see Matt hew 27:35) given by the Son to take upon Himself your sins and The Father and the Son could have stopped Father as infi rmities through the Atonement and it at any time, but out of love for us, they He willingly then suff er the terrible Crucifi xion. allowed it to go forward, knowing that in sacrifi ced His The Savior Himself even asked the Father order for mercy to satisfy justice, in order Only Begott en if there was any other way, when He said, for our sins and infi rmities to be covered, “O my Father, if it be possible, let this this needed to be a great and last sacrifi ce. Son. cup pass from me.” (Matt hew 26:39) This (Alma 34:14-16) Imagine for a moment the tender exchange between the Father and indescribable relief of the Father when His the Son tugs at the heartstrings of every Only Begott en Son fi nally utt ers the words,

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“It is fi nished,” “and bows His head and This Christmas season, my thoughts dies.” (John 19:30) will be on three gifts. The fi rst is the gift My wife Marcia and I have six children. of the Son in giving His life that we may Our love for them grows with every live again, and performing the Atonement passing day. We could not imagine before that we may be forgiven. The second is the we had children that we could love them incredible gift of the Father as He gave His as much as we do. When our children are Son to pay an infi nite price for sins He did suff ering it is almost more than we can not commit and bear the burden of sorrows bear as parents to stand by and watch. He did not cause. (see I Corinthians 7:23) As we left our four sons at the MTC The third gift is the one I must give in to begin their missions, knowing how return as I follow Their divine example. diffi cult this new assignment would be May our thoughts this Christmas season for them, we could barely contain our be turned to Them and may we follow emotions. We wanted above all else for Them as we focus on what They gave, and them to serve, but we knew they would therefore, turn our thoughts to what we be gone from us for two years and that will give for Christmas this year. they would struggle with new languages, new living conditions and the challenge of conversion. As our two daughters went through the We become like experience of childbirth and the pain and They are when we incumbent changes to their bodies and “What will you give understand that emotions, as parents we could hardly bear to watch. We knew in the eternal scheme for Christmas?” it is not about us. of things it was the only way, but when it is We become like your daughter, you somehow want it to be They are when we diff erent. give of ourselves It is interesting that the pioneers who to others. If we sacrifi ced so much to establish the Church expressed that they “became acquainted can understand with [God] in [their] extremities.” (Our the great gift of Heritage, page 78) When we can get a the Father and the glimpse of suff ering; when we experience great gift of the heartache; when we feel sorrow for Son, we will know pain we may have caused; we begin to understand the priceless gift the Father that, “because gave when He off ered up His Only [we] have been Begott en Son. given much, [we] What does the Father ask of us in return too must give.” for this wonderful gift? King Benjamin (“Because I Have answers that question when he says, “And behold, all that he requires of you Been Given Much,” is to keep his commandments.” (Mosiah Hymns, no. 219) 2:22) When asked what manner of men we ought to be, the Savior responded, “Verily I say unto you, even as I am.” (3 Nephi 27:27) We become like They are when we understand that it is not about us. We become like They are when we give of ourselves to others. If we can understand the great gift of the Father and the great gift of the Son, we will know that, “because [we] have been given much, [we] too must give.” (“Because I Have Been Given Much,” Hymns, no. 219)

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LOCAL NEWS

General Authorities Visit the Philippines Elders David A. Bednar and Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Elder Tad R. Callister of the Presidency of the Seventy, and Bishop Dean M. Davies of the Presiding Bishopric together with their wives visited the Philippines from 24 August to 02 September 2012. The Brethren visited diff erent parts of the Philippines and conducted priesthood leadership training, young single adult devotionals and missionary meetings. A special devotional for temple workers was also conducted. Elder Cook also visited with two Philippine senators, Vicente R. Sott o III and Gregorio Honasan.

LAGUNA The Saints living in the province of Laguna and its neighboring areas were delighted when Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and Sister Bednar visited and conducted trainings and meetings. Elder and Sister Bednar, accompanied by Elder Michael John U. Teh, Philippines Area President, and Sister Teh, presided over a special young single adult meeting on the 24th of August at the San Pablo Stake Center. The meeting was not the usual devotional most Filipinos are accustomed to. The young single adults from many stakes and districts were given the opportunity to ask questions. The questions were as varied as the members in att endance. Some were doctrinal and some were of a more personal nature. opportunity to ask it, I still received Teh, Elder Miguel R. Valdez an area Elder Bednar explained the an answer from the Holy Ghost.” seventy, and President George E. purpose of the meeting and why Kelly Ann Balane found lessons Peterson of the San Pablo Mission. he wanted them to ask questions. which she can also apply in her After the conference, Bishop He taught through this patt ern, studies. “In academics, just like in Rhodell Agustin of Santa Rosa we learn that we can get answers real life, we learn things step by 2nd Ward, Cabuyao Stake, said, “I from the Holy Ghost for individual step, precept upon precept,” she feel motivated, rejuvenated and concerns in our lives. We need to said. spiritually uplifted.” be agents who act and not objects “I understood more clearly “The Spirit was amazing and was who are acted upon. He said: “You that I need to improve spiritually truly felt,” President Roland Garcia don’t have to be with a General every day,” Ian Reyes, a returned of the Santa Cruz Philippines Stake Authority or in a gathering like this missionary from Lipa Stake said. added. “The counsels really pierced to experience what just happened.” On the morning of Saturday, our hearts even if some of us cannot Many young members of the August 25, Elder Bednar presided understand English very well.” Church were touched by Elder over a Priesthood Leadership Bednar’s simple yet powerful Conference for stake, mission, Elder Bednar and his companions lesson. Moselle Tobias, a college and district presidencies, bishops also met with the San Pablo full- student who also att ends the Los and branch presidents under the time missionaries on the same day. Baños Institute of Religion said: San Pablo Mission. He was joined Here are some comments from the “I came to the meeting with a by Bishop Dean M. Davis of the missionaries: question. Although I did not get an Presiding Bishopric, Elder Michael

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“I learned that great faith should start with us missionaries.”—Elder Illustrisimo “We need to treat our investigators as agents who have the ability to act and not as objects which are acted upon.”—Sister Carmichael “He is so awesome and spiritual. We are so blessed.”—Sister Macariola “Elder Bednar carries such a great countenance. I need to be more obedient to mission rules if I want to have the same countenance.”— Elder Pablico On Sunday, August 26, Elder Bednar and his companions visited the Latter-day Saints of Cabuyao Philippines Stake, and a special stake conference was held.

LEGAZPI CITY who attended the leadership his wife, Sister Bliesner. Each Elder Quentin L. Cook of the conference came from the Daet, missionary had the opportunity Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Goa, Legazpi and Naga stakes to shake hands with the General and Elder Tad R. Callister of the and the Bulan, Catanduanes, Authorities before the start of Presidency of the Seventy, met with Iriga, Ligao, Masbate, Pamplona, the meeting. Sister Mayores, a priesthood leaders from four stakes and Tabaco districts. The missionary who attended the and eight districts in the Naga priesthood leaders came by land meeting, shared her experience: “I Mission in a regional priesthood and sea and some travelled for up felt the Lord’s love for me and my leadership conference held at the to four hours each way to meet with family when Elder Cook left his Legazpi Stake Center last August the Apostle of the Lord and hear his apostolic blessing on those of us 25, 2012. They were accompanied message. who were there. I felt motivated to by Elder Ian Ardern, Second Priesthood leaders received improve myself as Elder Callister Counselor in the Area Presidency instruction and participated in encouraged us to be consecrated and Elder Abenir Pajaro, Area a question-and-answer session missionaries.” Seventy. during the four-hour meeting. “I Elder Cook presided over the The stake and district presidents know that his [Elder Cook] message special stake meeting in Legazpi the and bishops and branch presidents is really from God. I felt the Spirit following Sunday, August 26, 2012. and I have learned many things The sacrament and cultural halls that I can bring home and share of the Legazpi Stake Center were with the leaders in our branch, packed with members, including especially what was taught on how two overflow rooms, which had we should love and reach out to video feed. Elder Cook taught those members who are struggling about how we should always seek in their faith,” said President to build faith in the Lord Jesus Dante Osila of the Bololo Branch. Christ whenever we teach and According to Bishop Cristito speak in the Church. He spoke Pacunza of the Naga 1st Ward, of the importance of the words his attendance in the conference of the prophets such as President has helped him gain additional Heber J. Grant’s emphasis on living knowledge on how to go about the Word of Wisdom at a time his duties and he has received when the effects of cigarettes and inspiration on how he can help alcohol were not yet understood. people in his branch in a way that He emphasized the importance of he had not previously thought. husbands and wives being equal Following the priesthood partners in marriage as taught by leadership conference, the General the family proclamation released Authorities and their wives met during the time of President with full-time missionaries in a Gordon B. Hinckley. He cited meeting with President Bliesner, President Thomas S. Monson’s Naga Mission President and teachings about gratitude. He

N4 Liahona counseled the youth and young spoken by the Spirit and not the act on their faith. When we pray single adults: “Do not let your things they literally hear with their we must ask for the power to act in doubts disturb your faith.” He ears. order to gain spiritual power. He taught that faith in Jesus Christ He taught what effective teaching emphasised how we don’t have to allows what can be accomplished. really is. He emphasized that be on common ground with other He testified that living the talking is not teaching. Listening, Christians and, in fact that we must commandments will bring peace observing, discerning what to say stand out by placing ourselves on in this life and eternal life in the and then talking are teaching. He higher ground. world to come, that in keeping the taught that learning and teaching commandments, we will prosper by the Spirit are necessary for YOUNG SINGLE ADULT in the land. He said that prosperity missionaries and investigators DEVOTIONAL may be temporal, in part, but to be edified. He explained how Hundreds of young single adults that we also prosper because we the gospel pattern should not from Panay and Guimaras Islands have the Holy Ghost and have the be allowed to get in the way of gathered to enjoy a “once-in- guidance of heaven to have eternal effective teaching, and that each a-lifetime” experience with families. must focus on teaching by the Elder Bednar. He emphasized Elder Cook concluded his spirit. He went on to say that the importance of revelatory message by leaving his apostolic the gospel is not spoon-feeding experiences and said that he blessing upon those who were someone with knowledge of can only teach us what we have gathered. He bore his testimony, as the gospel but rather it is about planned to receive. He repeatedly a special witness of Jesus Christ, of motivating someone to act on that said that agency is the capacity the divinity of the Savior and that true knowledge. He let missionaries to act and not to be acted upon. He lives. At the conclusion of the read scriptures and asked them He emphasised that “faith is not meeting, Elder Cook personally what stood out to them while they merely hoping and wishing but it is greeted the members who waited read. Volunteers raised their hands acting on something”. for him on his way out. with unique answers. Elder Bednar engaged the young Elder Bednar taught that faith single adults by inviting them to ILOILO is a principle of action and that write down and present questions power only comes when people about various gospel topics. He SPECIAL MISSIONARY MEETING provided valued counsel through Over 100 full-time missionaries his responses to the questions. travelled across Panay Island to Elder Bednar stressed how this was attend the special devotional with the Spirit of the Lord providing an Apostle of the Lord. Elder their answers. Bednar was accompanied by his The young single adults had wife, Susan, together with Elder travelled far and wide to be a part and Sister Ardern and Bishop and of this important time with Elder Sister Davies. Bednar. Some travelled as much Elder Bednar encouraged the as five hours by jeepney and bus. missionaries to write down things Other travelled by pump boat and trisikad. Most travelled within frugal means. All travelled with a full heart and excitement to be a part of this significant event. Many stayed at homes of members who live in the Iloilo area.

FEEDBACK FROM ATTENDEES

here was a surge of the Tpresence of the Holy Ghost in the chapel. I envisioned flashes of inspiration from the Spirit that would not only help the people we teach but also help me personally. As Elder Bednar talked, I pondered what God has revealed to Abraham about the “many of the noble and great ones” (Abraham 3:22) before the world was and I testify that

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Elder Bednar is one of them, devotional, knowing these persons things that the Lord desires for handpicked by God to become a are friends to God. me. I will earnestly seek Him in prophet, seer and revelator. As we sang the hymn, my heart my life and follow His will. I don’t cried with joy. The Spirit was know all things but He does and He Elder Jarmillos strong. I am grateful to receive works in me according to His will. Tigbauan Branch, Iloilo Mission him here in Iloilo. Doctrine and Covenants 84:36 states: “For he that Brenda Gadingan hen Elder Bednar spoke, the receiveth my servants receiveth me Roxas, Capiz Philippine Stake WSpirit was there in quantities I (Jesus Christ).” had never before felt in my life. The n overwhelming peace and Spirit testified of the truthfulness Sister Gazelem Ann Torres Ahappiness overthrew my of the gospel to me personally and Arevalo Ward, Iloilo Philippines Stake troubles. Answers were given also testified of many things, which through the Holy Ghost. A strong I needed at that time. was really filled with the Spirit certainty testified to me that the When he spoke, I know that Ias we listened to Elder Bednar’s Church is true. I am so happy every missionary present was wonderful counsels for us single everyone will be blessed. The edified and learned different things. adults. My testimony was more gospel was made crystal clear. I know that Elder Bednar is an strengthened. I learned many Apostle of the Lord and I have been important things that really Ar or Blancaver inspired to act more in my life, and helped me to be more prepared as Iloilo City Ward, Iloilo Philippines Stake to embrace the gospel more fully. I am about to serve in the Lord’s There was a higher power in vineyard. I am more inspired to he feeling of seeing an Apostle of that room beyond words and man preach the restored gospel of Jesus Tthe Lord is very overwhelming. I understands. The Spirit attended Christ. Heavenly Father loves us have learned a lot about preparing to all, teaching that which we were all. He continues to show His love myself to go on a mission and seeking or needed at that time. through his prophet and apostles. choosing a good eternal companion. This is a very special day to Elder Whiting Julius Defacto treasure and remember. Pototan Branch, Iloilo Mission Passi Branch, Iloilo Philippines North Stake Brandon Kyle Sorilla s a full-time missionary, we are Mandurriao Ward, Iloilo Philippines Acalled to proclaim the gospel. hen Elder Bednar spoke, the Stake The power of heaven is on our side. WSpirit of the Lord affirmed to We are here to teach the gospel of me, through my feelings, that He hen I found out that Elder Jesus Christ but we should always sends once again prophets, seers WBednar would be meeting remember that the true teacher and revelators to walk upon the the single adults of Panay Island, is the Holy Ghost, who through face of the earth. He led me to a I immediately booked a flight for proper invitation can dwell in point that I felt more attentive to home. The messages I heard were every house we teach. So teach with my thoughts and feelings, while exactly what I needed. Revelations clarity, conviction, power and love. he speaks. His visit to Iloilo is a and inspirations just freely came Help our investigators and less landmark to my heart. I testify that into my thoughts and my heart, active members to act and not to God loves me and He sent him to during the entire fireside. It was be acted upon. Help them exercise personally instruct me. worth the time and the effort I their faith by doing all these things, spent to hear from one of the Lord’s giving all our best as stated in Alma Rhen Poll Tome Potato prophets. 26:27. The Lord will give unto us Nueva Valencia Guimaras Branch success. Iloilo Philippines Stake Camela Ann Londres Pina Ward, Philippines Stake Sister Manguil he devotional taught me a lot Philippines Iloilo Mission Tof things. It reminded me that I aith in the Lord Jesus Christ will still have a lot of things to learn. I Fhelp us use our agency wisely. lder Bednar taught us how love the leaders and their counsels. Studying the scriptures and acting Ewe need to act if we expect to I know I am nothing as to my in accordance to His teachings grow closer to God and to receive strength and talents. But I know will decrease our fear. Everything answers to our prayers. that I have wonderful leaders and that we need in this life, especially a loving Heavenly Father and Jesus our unanswered questions will be Elder Ligth Christ. answered by the gospel. Happiness Mandurriao Ward, Iloilo Mission I testify that Elder Bednar is a can be found by helping others find true Apostle of God. I felt the Spirit their happiness. hat a tremendous blessing and it taught me a lot of things Wbeing with an Apostle and especially when it comes to my Cyrelle Gomez Constantino some leaders of the Church in a personal perspective. I will do the Molo 2nd Ward

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put your arm around a young they read and review, beforehand, OLONGAPO man, tell him how good it is to two messages he had provided. “Appoint among yourselves be a missionary; Filipinos will And so he went on to inquire what a teacher, and let not all be be flooding the congregation,” they have learned from them. spokesmen at once; but let one she shared. Hope that by this Though different and personal, speak at a time and let all listen gesture, we may have enough what the four missionaries shared unto his sayings, that when all have Filipino missionaries to serve in the seemed to have provided answers to questions in the minds and hearts of those who heard. They may act on faith, and not only express it. Be agents, teaching people by the power of the Holy Ghost. Sister Gabelo, who had just arrived from the MTC and assigned to the Lubao 1st Branch, had this to say: “I learned how powerful faith can be if you put it in action. Faith requires action for you to accomplish your purpose as servants of the Lord.” She now has an even greater desire to help investigators and the less-active “come unto Christ.” To build upon the pattern of which they had been taught. Sister Pavino, senior companion to Sister Gabelo, learned of the pattern used in the meeting. “This is the Lord’s pattern that He wants us to spoken that all may be edified of Philippines. Elder and Sister Bednar use, especially as missionaries.” all, and that every man may have have three sons who have served She recalls what she read from an equal privilege.” (D&C 88:122). as missionaries. She continued one of the messages they read This scripture was read at the by sharing an experience she had in which Elder Bednar said, “An beginning of the missionary as one of their sons was about to instructor’s faith is strengthened meeting with Elder David A. leave for his mission. Together, as he helps others seek learning Bednar last August 29. Elder Bednar mother and son read Doctrine and by faith.” There have been times was accompanied by Elder Ardern Covenants 84:87-88. And this gave when her faith was strengthened of the Philippines Area Presidency, them a strong assurance that the by those they teach, and today Bishop Davies and their wives. Spirit would be in [their] hearts, she has learned to act upon that They were welcomed by Mission and His angels round about [them], faith because faith is not simply President Robert Querido and to bear [them] up. We are never believing, but doing something Sister Elsie Querido and District alone. about it. She felt enlightened as she President Geraldo Angel. The meeting was, as Elder Bednar listened to all who spoke, and that President Querido, who had said earlier, different from all that were present were edified conducted the meeting, counseled what everyone was expecting. as she was. Truly the Holy Spirit all the missionaries to encourage After Doctrine and Covenants silenced her wonderings through the young men to serve missions. 88:122 was read, he directed a those who spoke. After the hymn and prayer, Sister question to the missionaries. “What Sister Cedenio, one of the sisters Bednar spoke of what an “awesome do you learn from that verse and serving in the Olongapo 1st Branch, sight” it was to have all of them what stands out to you?” Four has also learned much from this in one place. “Thank you for who missionaries, one at a time, stood pattern used by Elder Bednar. “It you are, who you represent, and up and replied. And though they says to make sure that when we what you are,” she added. She each answered differently, what preach the gospel, those we teach recalled being in Colombia with they said was in effect what Elder are also edified, that they too Elder Bednar at one time and Bednar had hoped to achieve, that impart knowledge to us through found that all the missionaries were all would stand and speak, upon their experiences,” she shared. She native Colombians. She went on his invitation, of their thoughts and went on to say that “the pattern to speak of a “unique perspective” learning. That through this pattern, has taught us that the true teacher and addressed the missionaries all present would be edified, rejoice is the Holy Ghost, and for us to about her hope for the Philippines. and understand each other. be hearers and doers, seek for ”As each of you teach, testify and Elder Bednar had requested that increased faith and to act upon it.”

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She felt honored to have been able witness that Elder David Bednar is Elder Bednar asked each one to to learn from Elder Bednar, Elder an Apostle of our Lord Jesus Christ. give thought to these questions as Ardern, Bishop Davies and their He compares his emotions to being they left, “Based upon what I have wives as well. She was grateful that stabbed in the heart with a javelin learned, observed and felt today, she has gained wisdom and knows that brought a burning feeling for what will I do? What will we do?” that all this can help each of those every answer he received. Saying amen is saying “we’re going listening to become a successful That listening and observing to begin.” missionary as they touch the hearts are key and critical elements in of the people. helping those whose testimonies DE ORO To come unto Christ by “turning have weakened. To teach with in and facing Him” and not listening ears and hearts and Elder Cook Tells Young Single Adults looking back. Elder Howes of the with love, that they would feel to Push Doubts Aside and Increase Calapacuan Branch says that what the love of our Father in Heaven Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ he has heard has taught him that and the Savior. Companion to the best way to feel the Spirit in Elder Rosales, assigned to the On Friday, August 31, 2012, Elder missionary work is by faith that the Olongapo 2nd Branch, Elder Carrol Cook with his wife, along with Spirit is there. “We must become has learned too many things to Bishop Davies and Sister Darla obedient, which means turning list down. There is however, one Davies, Elder Teh of the Area towards the Savior, overcoming lesson that prevailed, according to Presidency and Sister Teh, Elder the natural man and becoming him, and that is that “true faith is Remigio Meim, Area Seventy, selfless,” imparts Elder Howes. He accompanied by action, and that and Sister Meim, met and had a learned to always be petitioning to action can take many forms. We devotional with the young single God that He would help with the are bearers of that faith in Jesus adults in Cagayan de Oro City. plans we have mapped out with Christ and we must continue to the help of the Spirit. Also, that we exhibit that faith as we serve a need not compromise unity and full-time mission and our lifelong obedience in our companionships, mission.” He felt a confirmation and to love and correct each of what Sister Bednar said at the other. He felt the Spirit in great beginning—that the Holy Ghost abundance answering the questions would bear witness that Elder of his soul, even if he stood up and Bednar truly is an Apostle of Jesus inquired but once. He is amazed Christ. He says, “Every fiber in with the pattern of God and how my body desires to continue in the it allows us to use our agency and service of Jesus Christ, that one faith by honestly seeking to satisfy day, I may help others understand our wonderings. the gospel as I do.” Uplifted, his To be patient because not confidence has waxed stronger in everyone does things the way you the presence of God as in Doctrine would. To be lovingly bold because and Covenants 121:45. when we fail to give needed That if we truly understand what correction, it is because we think it is to take upon us the name of only of ourselves and fear hate. Christ; we do not have the option Not to do it is not to love. to be disobedient and elect not to Strengthen our brethren. That violate any commandment. We are consistency and steadiness over to pray carefully and not casually, to time is true conversion. Elder do it with real intent and sincerity. Rosales stood up not just once At the close of the meeting, during the meeting, sharing his thoughts as well as the things left unanswered in his mind. He also learned much from the pattern taught. He says, “Each of us has a privilege to learn if we ask Him and ask in faith. I learned to offer myself to the Savior.” At a certain point during the evening, he was struck most when Elder Bednar asked them to focus more outwardly by helping others more than themselves. He was overwhelmed by the Spirit of the Lord and bore

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Elder Cook shared his message for the qualities in our eternal empowered in their callings when with two scriptural thoughts about companion such as having a strong they came out after the training. the accounts of the Savior. The testimony and love for our Savior Many of them felt blessed because first account is in Mark; it is about Jesus Christ. I also learned from their testimonies grew stronger a father who has a son who has a the message of Elder Cook that we and their desire to continue to spirit that needs to be cured. The should replace doubt with faith.” serve the Lord with all their hearts father’s faith enabled the son to Jeafha Torres from Malaybalay increased. President Enguito of be healed by the Savior, and the Philippines District said, “I learned Oroquieta Stake expressed the words of the father to the Savior a lot from the devotional, especially added knowledge he gained in the were, “Lord I believe; help thou my about the things that we as young training: “I learned that as leaders, unbelief.” (Mark 9:22) With all the single adults would face just like we should be part in building the many challenges that the young in making decisions in going on a faith of the members of the Church. single adults of the Church are mission, acquiring work, achieving Moreover, I learned that the home facing now, Elder Cook says “push eternal marriage and the importance is truly the primary place for your doubts out to the corners, of being patient in all we do. Also organizing and saving the rising don’t let your doubts rule your life, I learned from the other leaders generation.” don’t let your doubts be the things who were present in the devotional President Ang, 1st Counselor of that you make your decisions on, who shared about the importance Philippines Cagayan de Oro Mission whether it’s faith in the Lord Jesus of looking for the qualities that also shared his insights: “We Christ and worshipping Him, or our eternal companion possesses, received very good instructions from whether it is do I have the courage just like taking into account the the leaders—we were asked to focus to get married, or do I have the importance of their love for our on our families. As leaders, we have courage to be righteous all the time. Savior.” lots of responsibilities and priorities, Push your doubts to the side and “You’re a great generation. You’re in which all of these things should emphasize faith on the Lord Jesus a group that is going to mean so lead us in building our families Christ.” much in the Lord’s kingdom. Your and not leaving them. In addition, I Another account of the Savior righteousness is needed and this learned more about the importance was in Luke. It was about the nation needs to be stronger. There of visiting teaching in which it helps woman who was healed by will be an impact as a result of the priesthood holders bless families. It touching the hem of the Savior’s Church’s strength in the Philippines is such a blessing to hear these from garment. When we exercise faith in that will bless people all over Asia,” the visiting authorities.” our Savior we can realize the power said Elder Cook. To accomplish The priesthood leaders felt good of righteous desires in our lives by that, we need to get our priorities after the training and their minds praying and believing that it all will right, get our doubts out of the were opened to what more is be accomplished. way, exercise our faith, and move expected in their callings. President Emerson Sojor from Iligan forward in marriage and the things Crisanto of Iligan Philippines Stake Philippines Stake said, “I know that that will help us do that. spoke of his feelings: “I really looked my perspective in life will change as forward to this visit and I felt very I make important decisions in my life PRIESTHOOD LEADERSHIP good in the training. Truly it is a big and go on a mission.” Referring to TRAINING blessing to have Elder Cook and the the Savior’s account, Elder Cook says, The priesthood leaders were other leaders with us. The timing of “The Savior’s Atonement overcomes all the unfairness in life.” When we look on the Atonement of the Savior, we will be able surpass all the challenges we are facing right now. Joshua Crisanto of Iligan Philippines Stake said, “I learned the principle that we shouldn’t let our doubts rule our life, and we should let our faith keep pressing forward, and that we should trust in the Lord always and rely on His timetable.” Somie Sanchez Jr. from Cagayan de Oro Stake said, “I liked what Elder and Sister Teh shared—that in order for us to have a strong foundation of love in marriage, we need to have a strong testimony about the Savior, as well as looking

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the teachings of the principles and testimony was what Elder Nadado scripture thoughts they shared was and Elder Hallig came away of most importance; surely those with in the meeting Elder Bednar principles are what we need today. held with the Davao Mission In speaking about homes, Bishop missionaries. They both noted that Davies said that of all the callings missionaries will be able to help we have, the most important is in their investigators better if they the family.” invite them to decide to keep their commitments so they will develop DAVAO their own testimony. Elder Hallig emphasized the A Visit to the Saints in Davao importance of obeying mission Focus on the pearl not the box. rules so that blessings will come, A man who owned a large pearl while Elder Nadado felt the Spirit wanted to show the priceless gem so strongly he resolved to forget to his friends. He had a box custom himself and focus on the will of the made. The box was so beautifully Savior, Jesus Christ. crafted that people who came to see At the conclusion of the meeting, I felt the truthfulness of what he the display admired the box and they were left to ponder on a stirring was saying. I love that he talked not the pearl. question, almost an invitation: about being equal partners, because It was in reference to this allegory “Based upon what I have observed, I see that being practiced by my that Elder David A. Bednar of the learned and felt, what would I do?” parents in our home.” Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Elder Cook especially addressed counseled Church leaders in PASAY CITY the young single adults in his talk. Davao and Butuan Missions to Having served the Filipino people He counseled them to empower save the pearl (member) and not from August 1996 to August 1998 as their faith and push their doubts focus on the box (programs) when a member of the Philippines Area aside. He said that if they stayed ministering to their members. He Presidency, Elder Quentin L. faithful in the Church and acted on urged them to invite members Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve their faith, they would resolve and to live specific principles of the Apostles remembered with fondness reduce any doubts they may have. gospel and rely on the Holy Ghost the nation that he loved as he Pasay First Ward librarian as they go about fulfilling their addressed the Pasay Philippines Gretel Alcaraz related that she responsibilities. He emphasized Stake members in a special Sunday felt happy when Elder Cook gave that it isn’t sufficient to just meeting held on September 2, 2012. counsel specifically addressed to counsel, but it is essential to invite “I love the Fiipino people. This the young single members of the individuals to live what they learn is a great nation, which has a rich congregation. She said, “Now I as they come unto Christ. history of loving the Savior,” he know that I should exercise faith District and stake presidents as said. and not lose hope on the things that well as bishops from these missions Elder Cook organized and created I am aspiring for.” gathered at the Claveria Chapel Pasay Philippines Stake from Philippines Manila Mission on Saturday, September 1, 2012 to Parañaque Philippines Stake in 1998 president Lyle Jay Stucki, who receive counsel from Elder Bednar. with only five wards. In his talk, attended the special conference At the conclusion of the training he emphasized the importance of with his wife, said: “I just thought one priesthood leader remarked families, of husband and wife being it was important that Elder Cook that living the gospel should start equal partners, and of the Church would come back after being here with him and his family in order coming out of obscurity these days. many years ago to organize the for him to have the moral authority He also strongly admonished the stake. He gave a powerful message to minister. Many shared the members to support the rescue effort to the young people, and reminded conviction that they need to rely on of the Philippines Area Presidency— us that as we follow the prophets, the promptings of the Holy Spirit in reaching out to the less active and our lives are absolutely blessed. as they go about magnifying their making them feel welcome again to That was a powerful blessing that responsibilities. the fold. he gave, and I am grateful to be Excitement and hope filled Gabriel Tongco, a 14-year-old here today.” the hearts of those present. They young boy from Manila First Elder Cook was accompanied couldn’t wait to put these counsels Ward, shares his feelings about the by his wife, Mary Cook, Elder Ian to a test and see the promises of the apostolic visit: “It is my first time S. Ardern, Second Counselor in Lord’s Apostle be fulfilled in each to shake hands with and hear an the Area Presidency, and his wife, of their areas of assignment. Apostle speak in person. I felt the Paula Ardern. On a similar note, inviting Spirit as Elder Cook was speaking. investigators to keep their I could tell that he is a good man commitments for them to have a based on the way he carried himself.

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appreciation for Senator Sotto’s is a constitutional principle that ELDER BEDNAR MEETS WITH advocacy on strengthening the the sanctity of life takes precedence MANILA TEMPLE ORDINANCE Filipino family and upholding over everything else. This core WORKERS family values. He also highlighted principle is what we stand for.” The Quezon City South Stake the senator’s advocacy on helping When Elder Cook referred to Center was filled with Manila the youth fight against drug the Church’s close friendship Temple ordinance workers for a abuse. Elder Teh also expressed and association with the Catholic special meeting with Elder Bednar appreciation for his leadership in church, Senator Honasan last August 26, 2012. An hour before the Senate. Sotto responded, “Your encouraged us to join a multi- the meeting, the chapel was already kind words to my advocacy on cultural dialogue to address the filled with temple ordinance strengthening families inspire me needs of people from different workers, all eager to be instructed and those from the Senate to do faith-based organizations. He said by the voice of an Apostle. more.” He talked of the need to that issues on preserving marriage, Also present during the meeting strengthen families and to respect challenges confronting husbands were Elder Bednar’s wife, Susan the sanctity of life, both of which and wives, poverty, education, and Bednar, Elder Michael John Teh of are values shared by the LDS productivity are issues that we can the Area Presidency and his wife, Church. talk with and unitedly take a stand Grace Teh, Bishop Dean Davies of Elder Cook mentioned that with other faiths. the Presiding Bishopric, and his the Church is politically neutral. As the meeting progressed, the wife, Darla Davies and the Manila Although the Church counsels its conversation naturally turned to Temple presidency headed by members to be politically dynamic children and grandchildren. They President Reynaldo Cuyong. and active in their communities, lovingly talked of how children The Manila Temple workers left The Church of Jesus Christ of brought happiness to their lives and the meeting greatly edified and Latter-day Saints is neutral in their homes. with a deeper sense of commitment matters of party politics. This to their callings as temple ordinance applies in all of the many nations workers. in which it is established. The Church’s mission is to preach the PHILIPPINE SENATORS SOTTO AND gospel of Jesus Christ. HONASAN MEET WITH MORMON Elder Cook expressed his love LEADERS for the Filipinos, having served in Elder Quentin L. Cook, a member the Philippines Area Presidency of the Quorum of the Twelve from 1996-1998. He also views the Apostles, and Elder Michael John Filipinos as one of the happiest people in the world despite the different challenges they encounter like natural and manmade disasters. The meeting with Senator Honasan followed thereafter. Elder Cook highlighted the recent Jubilee celebration of the Church and its milestones during the last 50 years. He emphasized the full name of the Church; why we are commonly known as Mormons, and that, as Christians, we follow the teaching and example of the Savior, Jesus U. Teh, Philippines Area President Christ. The Church presented the two of The Church of Jesus Christ of Senator Honasan recognized the senators with tokens: the Christus, Latter-day Saints, met with Senator Church’s stand on strengthening which is a replica of the statue III and Senator Gregorio the Filipino family, promoting in the Church Visitor’s Center in Honasan on Wednesday, August good values, and for preparing Salt Lake, a framed copy of “The 29, at the Philippine Senate (GSIS bright futures for our children. Family: A Proclamation to the Building). The purpose of the He said, “We thank good citizens, World” and a 100 anniversary courtesy visit was to discuss topics like you (your members), who are celebration CD of the Mormon of mutual interest and to strengthen supporting good causes. We want Tabernacle Choir. the common bridge of friendship a promising future for our children, After the meeting with both between the Church and the thus the need to work together for a senators, Elder Cook and Elder esteemed senators. common good.” Teh briefly attended and were Elder Cook expressed Honasan also mentioned that “it acknowledged during the session

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of the senate. They were also able to visit briefly with the Senate President, Senator , before the start of the session.

PHILIPPINE YOUTH PERFORM FOR ELDERS BEDNAR AND COOK AND THEIR WIVES The visiting General Authorities, led by Elder Bednar, were treated to a night of song and dance celebrating Philippine culture on August 29. He was accompanied by Elder Cook, Elder Callister and Bishop Davies with their wives, together with the members of the Philippine Area Presidency, Elders Michael John U. Teh, Brent H. Nielson and Ian S. Ardern and their He recounted the sacrifice made by wives. members of the Church when the The special cultural celebration Buendia chapel was being built. was reminiscent of the Jubilee He closed his message by sharing Cultural Celebration held last that both he and Elder Bednar are April 30, 2011. Young men and witnesses of Jesus Christ and His young women from various stakes divinity. in Metro Manila performed some Elder Bednar then shared his of the dances from , Visayas observation about how he thought and . Elder Cook would join the youth Three song numbers were in dances as they were sitting next also rendered, one by a single to each other. He said that the Jesus Christ lives and directs the adult choir who sang a medley costumes were colorful, the dances affairs of the Church. He said that of Filipino songs, another by a beautiful and the smiles bright. as we honor our covenants we will Primary choir who sang “I Am a He further shared how he thought be guided and protected, and we Child of God” in four languages, that Filipinos have the brightest, will be strong and able to build our and the other by a group of male happiest smiles in the world, to families and this nation. singers who gave a rendition of the which the crowd cheered. Jubilee theme song, “United.” Elder Bednar said that the Contributors “That was just magnificent,” greatest spirit comes when people Eda Brojan-Calimlim Elder Cook remarked after the are united, and that there is one Gimbel Joy Hufana-Bigtas performances. In his message he culture that is stronger and more Erlina Cozzens also said that it was a beautiful powerful than any other—the Michele Joyce Araneta cultural celebration and that he is culture of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Monette Danoog grateful for what he has seen. He He emphasized to the youth that Ma. Teresa C. Pangilinan shared a story about his brother much is required of them. They Roxanne J. Montojo who was then a navy doctor have been called to be different Naomi June Hernaez assigned in the Philippines, serving from other young men and Marie Hinautan as district president during the time women. They are to be examples Sariah Guanzon-Ordinario when the country was opened for of the power and strength that Marjorie Teh missionary labors. He emphasized comes from the gospel. They are Aljo Del Rosario Despuig what then-Elder Hinckley directed encouraged to contribute to the Cherry Baluyot his brother to do. First, he wanted growth of the gospel in the country Haidi Fajardo the members of the Church to learn by living and praying for that Kaye Tyapon-Bay the scriptures. He said that before opportunity now. certificates were issued to those He concluded his message by Photographers who were able to memorize 10-25 expressing appreciation for their Neil Gonzaga scripture passages. time and all that they’ve done Alain Tagpuno Second was to start a heritage of to make the cultural celebration Dina Alves missionary service. And lastly was possible. He gave his testimony that Noel Maglaque to make sacrifices for the kingdom.

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