Sister Barden from Taiwan - May 26, 2014 

 

Dearest Family! 

  

What a week! 3 exchanges in Hualien and Taidong! We had so much fun driving from Hualien to TaiDong with President and Sister Day and sleeping on a tile floor for two nights ;) Good memories! We saw so many miracles and ate so much mochi! 

 

Sister Shi was baptized this Saturday. This was one of the most special moments of my mission. The ward was very supportive and many people came to attend the baptism. The spirit was so very strong and Shi JieMei seemed radiant with happiness. One of the recent converts we were able to see baptized last month, Wendy, gave the talk on baptism. As she testified of the blessings baptism has brought to her life, she shared her feelings as she performed baptisms for the dead the day previously. What an incredible feeling to see a recent convert love the temple so much! Her deepening conversion is so beautiful. We forgot to select a hymn for the missionaries to sing during the middle of the program. As our ward mission leader hurriedly asked us what we would sing, we quickly picked 'Be Still My Soul'. As the missionaries began to sing, big tears began to run down Shi JieMei's face. She felt the spirit. We know the spirit chose that song just for her. Her baptism was beautiful, the members happy and smiling, and Shi JieMei was running over with happiness the whole evening. It felt like heaven. She really is our Sister! 

 

The Wu family is progressing well. Many ward families are encouraging them, sitting with them and helping us teach in their home. Brother Wu is studying 2 Nephi. He feels that since he began reading the Book of Mormon, he is much happier and life runs more smoothly. He didn't drink coffee at all this week!!!!!! Two weeks ago he was still drinking three cups a day. We are unbelievably excited for him! 

 

Sister Chao is so incredible. I love her fire and her willingness to laugh at whatever crazy adventures come our way. We love working together and feel so very guided by the spirit. Feeling uplifted by so many blessings!! 

 

Love you all - have a great Memorial Day! 

Sister Barden