Strong Until the End

Dear Family,

I am enjoying my time on the mission and love my new area.  The branch is really supportive and we have an awesome branch presidency that takes action right away.  I love the area also.  We are still figuring out the area but it all comes with time.  We have many people to work with us and are enjoying doing missionary work.  I really love my companion Sister Olofernes. 

Today President told me I would be flying out on the night of Sunday the 20th.  Or the early hours of Monday around One AM.   So since it is one day behind there I will get home that same time I leave so I will get home on the 20th or 21st.  I haven't gotten the itinerary yet but I will let all you know when I get it.  I got the schedule from Gigi about driving but I am confused because the date is the 20th but the day is Wednesday the 22nd there.  Just let me know I guess. 

Things here seem to be full of trials but like I said before its a state of mind.  I love the work and will not be discouraged.  Strong until the end.  Working hard.  No regrets. 

I love you all

Sister Bruno

Transferred to Medellin

Dear President Schmutz,

We have had great experiences here in Medellin.  Our Zone Leaders have been very helpful in moving us into our apartment and helping us in the area.  

Like all open areas we are going to have to do a lot of finding, but we have already four investigators commited for baptism.  They all seem to have some growing to do, but of course it will take sometime to see where they actually are at.  Brother Elmer was committed for baptism this last Saturday but it was moved because he had work and just recently got Sunday off.  We found out though that he has a Word of Wisdom problem we went to teach him and he had been drinking.  We will continue to teach the doctrine, and see where his desire is.  His family are all members and would really like to see their dad baptized soon.  We will keep you updated.  Then we have Renato Giducos which his family is also members, and he seems interested in listening we committed him for baptism this past Sunday.  Also Brother Michael Fernandez (21 Years) and his brother Ranil Fernandez (16Years) they also committed for baptism last Sunday.   

The Giducos family is less active so we also work with them to become strong before the baptism of the father.  We also plan to teach Sister Vima Giducos to read so she can grow by reading the book of mormon.  

The apartment is pretty bad, but we had help cleaning on Saturday as a CSP.  We still have a long way to go, but I was not at all shocked with the past experiences I have had with Elders apartments.  I dont think I will be shocked at anything after the experience of my last apartment in Lapu-lapu I am sure you remember the email I sent about that.  In all fairness though the house is amazing.  We love having a yard, and have had picnics outside for our breakfast.  

I feel this area will have miracles happen.  We had a meeting this Sunday and we made a goal with the members to making our branch a ward in three months.  It was inspired by the spirit.  We really have great faith that this can happen.  We are faithful that if we are obedient and faithful then this area will progress.  

I am so grateful for the extension I have had I have learned so much especially from Elder Neilson yesterday.  I feel that the Lord has used me and my knowledge of opening areas.  I feel it a great privalage to be companions with Sister Olofernes.  She is so excited for the area, and she is a great example to me in her positive attitude.  Thank you for this amazing opportunity President I love you.

Sister Bruno 

Obedience of Missionaries Elder Nelson Coming

Dear Elders and Sisters,

Sister Schmutz and I have so much enjoyed the opportunity these last three weeks to visit every zone and share in the spirit that you all have.  I have been happy to take some time with each of you for interviews.  In these interviews I have the opportunity to discern your spirit, share the experiences you are having, observe your growth and development and offer some counsel.  It is also an opportunity for me to become better acquainted with each of you and express my love and gratitude for your efforts in this great cause.  It is a tiring three weeks but something we love to do.

I thought it might be of benefit to you if I could offer some of my thoughts and feelings about the mission after the close of the interviews.  There is a not a single district in the mission where the missionaries are disobedient.  There are very very few missionaries that struggle anymore with the rules or the morning schedule.  Almost every missionary in the Cebu Mission is focused on his or her purpose, and has moved beyond obedience in their effort to please the Lord.  I have found that most of you are focusing on how to become more sanctified by the Holy Spirit, and how to become closer to Jesus Christ.  I have found that you are striving to learn more of faith and put faith into action in your lives as a principle of power.  This was not always the case.  It hasn't been too very long ago when I felt that I was constantly battling with the consequences of missionary disobedience, and the negative influence that the disobedience of some missionaries had on areas, districts and zones.  I feel that the spirit of forgiveness and cleansing has washed over our mission, and we are more qualified as a mission to gather in the sheaves and tend to the Lord's vineyard.  We are becoming closer to finding out how the 2,060 stripling warriors were able to reach a level of obedience so that every single one obeyed with exactness.

I urge you with all my heart to continue improving and seeking to purify your service to the Lord.  Encourage one another, support and encourage your companion.  Use your "idle time" to talk about the Savior, his atonement, his restored church, his doctrine and your purpose as the Lord's missionaries.  The effect of using your idle time in this manner is powerful.  It is like telling the Lord you are willing to put yourselves in his hands, to submit to all that he is willing to give you as experiences and lessons for your good.  It is part of the process of passing through the refiner's fire.

I have also felt that all of you missionaries truly love one another and you try to support and serve your companions, your district mates and zone mates. You cannot fully appreciate how much this gladdens my heart as your Mission President. I feel like the spirit of love for one another is the best thing about our mission. This spirit has mostly reduced or eliminated contention in the mission and allowed the Spirit of the Lord to be present throughout our districts and zones.

I am grateful for the leaders in the mission, those who serve us as APs, zone leaders, as district leaders, as trainers, and senior companions.  And to all of you, your are preparing to become leaders.  In the Lord's church leadership is service. Thanks for your faithful preparations.  We need you.

Thanks for what you have done to make this mission the best mission in the world.

We have come to another transfer week.  How fast time flies!!!   We are saying goodbye to 12 powerful faithful missionaries who have completed this special time in their lives, and we are saying hello to 17 new missionaries.  We are receiving 4 missionaries from the Provo MTC and 13 from the Manila MTC.  So 17 of you will be training.  By Friday, most of you will be transferring to join a new companionship or receiving a new companion.  At present, we have 71 companionships.  All but 11 companionships will be affected by this transfer.  It will be a big transfer day. 

I thought it might be instructive and enlightening if I tell you about the transfer process.  Usually a week before transfer day, when we know the number of missionaries leaving and the number of missionaries arriving, I begin to prayerfully prepare myself to seek the Spirit as a guide in the transfers.  I first look at the board in the Mission Home and take all the missionaries off the board who are going home.  I look at the zone leaders and see if it is time for any of the zone leaders to return to the field for more important service, such as training a new missionary or providing experience and faithful mentoring somewhere they are needed in the field.  Every other transfer, I release one of the APs to send them back to the field.  This is not a "step down"; it is a wonderful opportunity for an elder who has contributed to the leadership in the mission to serve fellow missionaries in a more personal ministry.  When I know how many zone leader positions need to be filled, I prayerfully review all the elders to see who has the experience and who has become ready through obedience and diligence to lead.  From those missionaries, I fill the ZL spots.   Next, I seek to know from the Spirit which elders and sisters are ready to train, which will be needed by those new missionaries.  As you know, I truly feel that trainers are the most important positions because we are raising a righteous generation of missionaries.

After I have selected the trainers, I go over every single missionary in my mind, seeking guidance from the spirit.  I make changes based on many factors, but most importantly it is the Spirit that guides.  Many times, I am surprised by the feelings that I have to moves a sister or elder and make new companionships.  Quite often, I feel the spirit guiding a transfer to move an elder from a position of being a trainer or district leader to becoming a junior companion, because I know that is needed for the area and to prepare for the next transfers in that area. If I felt the Spirit whisper that an AP, a zone leader, a district leader, or a senior elder or sister would be more effective as a junior companion to show support and provide "shadow leadership" to a younger missionary, I would not hesitate to make that transfer.  So don't jump to conclusions about any missionary that might move from being a senior companion or leader to being a junior companion or having no leadership.  We do what we are called to do in this church, and we do it joyfully and faithfully.  In this transfer cycle, there are several missionaries who will become junior companions to missionaries who are about to conclude their mission in order to prepare for the next transfer and bless the area.  Please do not assume that a missionary has done something wrong if he is transferred from being a district leader or a zone leader to a junior or senior companion without leadership.  I want you to know that I do not think that way.  I simply seek with all my heart to follow the Spirit.

When I have completed this first review of the transfer board, I ask the Assistants to meet with me and review every proposed transfer.  Of course, we are prayerful together and the APs are humble and seeking the spirit.  For any of you who may doubt or wonder, THERE IS NEVER A SINGLE TIME THAT THE ASSISTANTS SUGGEST A TRANSFER TO SEND ONE OF THEIR FRIENDS TO AN AREA BECAUSE OF A REQUEST FROM THE FIELD.  This never happens in this mission.  Together we take between two and four hours to prayerfully discuss and review all of the transfers I have proposed to see if there is something more the Lord would reveal.  In this effort, I sometimes learn more and feel the spirit of refinement to the proposals.  When this happens, we make a few modifications.  Then, in order to finalize the transfer, we kneel and prayerfully seek a confirmation from the Lord that the proposed transfers are correct.  I bear my witness to you that the Lord guides the transfers.  There are no random transfers.

I have learned that in almost all transfer cycles, there are a number of missionaries that wonder why they have been assigned to a certain area or given to a certain companion.  Many times, the adjustment to a new companion can have challenges or difficulties and you may miss your old area.  You will all be blessed immensely if you can come to a have a testimony that the Lord guides the transfers.  Be patient to find the purposes the Lord has designed.  Many times, the Lord will give you to a companion in order to bless your companion.  That transfer might be more for your companion's benefit than for your benefit.  But even in these transfers where your companion NEEDS you, if you are faithful and humble and loving, you will find that there are many lessons designed for you to learn.  Please try to learn that God is in charge of your lives.  If you will accept every transfer, every area, and every experience in this mission as a custom designed experience intended to bless your lives, and if you will examine each such experience to see what the Lord wishes you to learn from it, you will be richly blessed and will grow and develop so much more rapidly.

A couple of other things you might wish to know about transfers: (1) If you have ever wondered how I select APs, I can tell you the most important thing I look for is humility and obedience. I don't seek to find the elder who is the most polished or funny or likeable. Each time, there are a number of elders who are qualified to serve as an AP but not all can serve so the timing of an elder's mission becomes a factor.  (2) There are times when very good elders are never given an opportunity to serve as zone leaders, but you should know that I have prayed much about this and learned by the Spirit that elders are often more valuable to the Lord and the mission when they are serving in other ways in the field.  Often, some of our best teachers and missionaries are needed more to serve as district leaders or to stay in the field than to serve in zone leader callings.

You are all sons and daughters of God, who are chosen to serve in the Philippines Cebu Mission.  Your calling was given by the spirit of prophecy and revelation by an apostle of the Lord.  You were sent here at this time to serve under my direction, and so that Sister Schmutz and I could become a part of your lives.  We have found joy in the love the Lord has given us for each of you.  We love you as our sons and daughters and we feel blessed because of it.

Make us proud, elders and sisters.  We love each and every one of you!

President Schmutz

 

P.S.

We will be blessed in May with the visits of two general authorities.  On May 23, 2012, Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles will visit our mission.  He will hold a missionary conference in the Temple Complex chapel from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.  I have arranged to allow every missionary from all areas to attend.  Please be sitting reverently in your seats no later than 3:45 p.m.  We will have prelude music.  Use this time to read your scriptures, ponder on sacred things and extend your heart in prayer as your prepare to learn by the Spirit from Elder Nelson's teachings.  This is your preparation day and we are asking that you sacrifice your preparation day to attend.  There will not be another preparation day during that week.  Please prepare for Elder Nelson's visit by fasting for spiritual preparation on Fast Sunday, May 6, 2012.

Starting Tuesday, May 1, 2012, Elder Brent Nielson of the First Quorum of Seventy, and a member of the Phils. Area Presidency, will visit to conduct a mission tour.  He will preside over zone conferences throughout the mission:  Cebu North zones on Tuesday, Bohol zones on Wednesday, Negros Oriental zones on Thursday, and Cebu South zones on Friday.   

Reaching Your Full Potential

Dear President Schmutz,

I have really been humbled in this past two transfers to be assigned with such an amazing companion.  I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that Sister Acain has been prepared by the Lord to be a trainer.  She is a born leader and example to all that will have the opportunity to come to work with her.  She has been a motivation to me to conquer all trials that satan has put in my path also has many times made me realize I still have many weaknesses.  

I have realized that I still need to go through a refiners fire.  I dont know how many times I have evaluated myself and then re-evaluated myself, and I am yet to feel close to reaching my potential.  Its still a long process, and I am grateful for the chance to extend for just a few short weeks.  I know it took a lot of work to get my transfer approved, and President I just want to say thank you so much for the effort you have shown.  Thank you for the concern and love I will not be trunky don't worry I cherish the mission too much to waste a moment.  

Brother Ong is growing in his testimony, but he will still need time.  We sadly got dropped through text by Brother John Clare Ayuda.  he will be moving back to Mindanao and doesn't want to listen anymore... I am sad that I will not be able to attend Sister Lea's baptism this Saturday, but I am grateful for the chance to see how the Lord prepares His children.  I have no fears about Sister Lea retaining she is such a strong willed person I see her as a future leader.      

I am 100% this is the right move for Sister Acain and that this transfer call was more about her growth then my own.  She may lack confidence in her ability to train but I have no doubt in her.  The Lord once again has called me to open an area...I just hope the area book has been updated!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  I am ready for the new adventure I think I follow in my fathers footsteps of loving the excitement of the unknown of being able to transfer to a new area.  My sisters find this as a way of me running away, but I see it more of a chance to meet more people expand my circle of friends.  A chance to grow from others experiences.   

Thank You President for the opportunity to attend the devotional tonight.  I am so proud of these missionaries going home they have really served the Lord well.

THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING.

With all my love,

Sister Bruno 

Work in Lapulapu

Dear President Schmutz,

We are excited for the baptism of Sister Lea Palaganas.  She is excited to be baptised and she really has been prepared.  Her husband is a good example to her.  He follows the teachings of the gospel and he has prepared her to accept all of the commandmants and commitments we have made.  She attends church with her family every week and has been to temple tour.  Her baptism will be 28 April 2012.  

We are not sure about brother Jeffery Ong but we will continue to work with him until he is ready.  

Brother John Clare Ayuda is slowly learning the gospel.  He is progressing slowly.

We are working with many less active families, and they have started to become strong in the gospel.  We are going to start to look at focusing on other less active families soon since the ones we have been focusing on have become active.  We plan to give the ward more responsibility in retaining them also so that when we transfer they wont fall away again.  

Sister Acain like I said is so prepared to train she knows the doctrine, and studies everyday how to apply in the lessons.  She is a great teacher and would really like to see her train next transfer.  She is a great example and would be a great trainer.  She might think she needs more time, but I know since she has been working with the missionaries since she was 14 years old she has been prepared by the Lord for great things.  

Thank You President I will stay in contact throughout the years.  Thank you for your kindness.

Sister Bruno

Follow Jesus Christ Change Life

Dear Family,

Our area is finally starting to progress.  We are seeing our investigators really start to want to start to follow Jesus Christ and change their life.  

We really enjoyed General Conference.

Sister Acain is becoming a really go friend of mine as time goes on.  I really enjoy our companionship.  

Yesterday we set an appointment with a less active member who just moved here from Iligan Sister Acain's Stake so it was a little awkward for Sister Acain since she has background with him, but we want to help him to come back.  

We have a baptismal date for Sister Lea this 28 April and we think she will really be ready.

Loving the work.

Sister Bruno 

Trials of Investigators

Dear President Schmutz,

Sister Lea I know will be baptized this 28 April.  She is really excited to listen to the lessons, and also she always has assignments for us.  She asks so many questions and are open to accept the answer through prayer and studying.  She has a testimony of Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon.  We will continue to prepare her for baptism.  

Brother John Clare Ayuda is having many trials, but we have seen his desires grow.  We taught him the word of wisdom the first lesson and he is willing to slowly give up his vices.  It was the first time I taught an investigator word of wisdom the first lesson, but he joined in the lesson for some recent converts, and he seems to accept it is what God wants.  He has little religious background so we are taking it slowly with him, and we plan and hope he will be prepared for baptism this coming May.

Brother jeffrey Ong is becoming less interested in baptism.  He is struggling with accepting the word of wisdom.  We need to go back to restoration, and build his faith.  We moved his baptism for the first week in May.

Sister Acain is a shining light in the darkness.  She is such an awesome friend I love her...  She is continuing to study the gospel to improve her knowledge of the gospel.  She is a special special person, and I am glad for the opportunity to be her companion.  

I love you President Schmutz give my love to Sister Schmutz,

Sister Bruno

Figuring Out School After Mission

Dear Family,

President Schmutz has given me time to try to figure out the whole school thing but its clear they suggest also to go back to BYU provo I will let you all know after reviewing all the information what my decision is.  Its not easy for me to go back to Provo you all know but I have yet to make a final decision..

The work is going good we have progressing investigators, and one of our inactive members passed the sacrament last sunday life is good.  Love you all

Sister Bruno

Do I Have Enough Faith?

Date: March 28, 2012
Area: Lapulapu 1st Ward
Companion: Sister Acain

Dear President Schmutz,

We are emailing you before we figure out this school stuff. It's interesting to have to shift my mind into what is going on after the mission. We are doing okay in the work its been interesting opening an area
again. It's always a challenge, but we are applying our faith in the area, and we are hoping for 3 baptisms this April.

Sister Lea is married to a member, and she is interested in finding out about the church. She opened up that she wants her kids to have one religion in the family, and is willing to find out for herself if it is true.
She has a testimony of Joseph Smith, and we are taking the approach of answering her questions with assignments and that is our next lesson.

We have taught the restoration, and answered some of her questions about sacrament and such. She just had a question about Law of Chastity which we gave as an assignment, and we will go back to the plan of
salvation next lesson. Sister Lea is tagalog speaking, and it has been a challenge to try to learn a new language, but I find it to be a help to keep me on my toes on the mission.

Brother Jeffrey Ong is also married to a member, and has taken the discussions on and off before. He is willing to listen, and has a testimony of Joseph Smith, but he has a problem with going to church because of his work schedule.

Brother Jonclar Ayuda is also an investigator who lives with his member sister at the time, and works with one of our recent converts. He at first was hesitant to listen, but his desire really has grown to listen and understand the gospel. He even attended church with us last Sunday.

Time is short on the mission and there is no time for regrets. Sister Acain is a strong example to me, and I will never forget her and her friendship. I really love her spirit of hard work. I have stepped down
so that she can step up. I have found that is what it is to be a trainer. I really want her to progress quickly to not hold her back, because she knows what she wants, and she is lead by the spirit.

She is one of those people that really is in tune with the spirit, and has given her will to the Father. I think that she will baptize the whole Philippines. She is in the high excellence current and I dont see her
falling into the pwede na current.

I have been studying faith, and I am glad for your workshop at the sisters training because I have found that I was lacking faith. I have always had the question do I have enough faith to be healed mentally physically spiritually. I have felt my work grow as I have been studying faith, and trying to apply what I have learned in the work.

I love you President Schmutz thank you for everything you do and say and especially for your example.

Sister Bruno

Challenging Area

Dear Family,

The work is going here in Lapu-Lapu 1st.  We have yet to seen a baptism this transfer, but I think we might see three this April.  This area has really been a challenge.  This is what we think.  If you don't have baptisms, you are reactivating, if you are not reactivating you are helping the recent converts be strengthened, if you are not strengthening the recent converts you are helping the members.  We are kind of just doing it all here.  There are so many people in all different classes that its not a concentrated effort in any particular part of the work.  We can't do it all alone!  Thats why we have the Savior walking beside us.  

Sister Acain is still awesome and I love her.  No transfer.  My release date is 21 May.  

Our zone activity to the Olongo Island was really fun.  It was a big adventure.  We explored and found a free place to sit on the beach, because if we sat in the resort there is an entrance fee and a fee for the cottage.  We found a house that the man let us use his cottage, and the man even said we could ride around in his paddle boats, but we couldn't because its BAWAL (not allowed) on the mission, but that's okay because we had a blast just playing games.

I love you all,

Sister Bruno

Daughter of Royal Blood

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Cebu Mission Office <cebumissionoffice@gmail.com>
Date: Tue, Mar 20, 2012 at 4:05 PM
Subject: Re: Week
To: Annika Bruno <annika.bruno@myldsmail.net>

Dear Sister Bruno,

 

You are an amazing young woman and missionary.  I love the spirit of determination that you show, and your enthusiasm to do your duty in the face of any challenge.  And I confirm that you are a a daughter of royal blood, and you have been ordained to be called up and crowned in the next life.  Live worthy of that great reward and it surely will be yours. 

 

How are you doing with Sister Acain?  Tell me about the work.  But do me a favor and write to me in imos.  It is so much easier to keep track of who has written and then reply.  I have confirmed that your date of release has now been moved to May 21, 2012.  Please confirm that with your parents, and I will inform your stake president of the change.  Do you know if your stake president is the same one who is listed on your application?  As the time draws near, we will need to make arrangements for either a stake or district missionary to work with your companion, or make a temporary assignment with a three some.

 

Sister Bruno, I am so glad you and we came together in this mission.  I hope always to be in touch with you in years to come.  Have a great week and I am looking forward to seeing you at the Sister's Specialized Training meeeting on Thursday.

 

All my love,

 

President Schmutz

On Tue, Mar 13, 2012 at 9:15 PM, Annika Bruno <annika.bruno@myldsmail.net> wrote:

Dear President Schmutz,

I have found the mission to be not only the best 18 years for my life but the best 18 month of my life.  Some people say that the mission is to tiring, but i find it a wake up call.  I am sad that some people go away from their mission thinking of all the negatives, and not seeing how amazing everyday here on the mission is.  I have decided to find out the good everyday instead of looking at the bad.  There has been many things that have happened in the last couple of months that could discourage any normal person, but I am here to say I am no normal person I am of royal blood.  No earthly thing will or can or should bring us to despair.  We are given the chance to be happy why should we give that away. 

President Schmutz I am happy.  I hope that my companion is happy too.  I really do love my companion and that she gives her all on the mission.  She is an asset here on the mission.  Sister Acain I can tell is growing in knowledge and faith.  She has a great love for our investigators, and i know that she is going to bring many souls unto Christ. 

Thank You President Schmutz for all that you do and the example you show.  Give my love to Sister Schmutz.

Love
Sister Bruno 

Dear President Schmutz,

Sister Acain really makes me feel I was not even close to being prepared when I came to the field.  As I watch all of the new missionaries coming in and being trained I see how much greater prepared Sister Acain is then all of us starting out.  I have really seen her progression also with teaching.  Elder Eubanks just came into the district and I can tell he is really struggling with confidence.  I know the mission really will shape him into a new person.  I am excited to see the change in him as he progresses on the mission.  Sister Acain never had any confidence problems.  Maybe its different because we were learning a language, but she really knows her doctrine.  She hasn't shown a weakness yet.  She is willing and ready to take on any challenge.  I think maybe I am the one that needs the training.  It has been hard to keep up with the study program, but we are working our hardest to be obedient about studying.  I know lately I haven't been as strict about the program in the past since sometimes I put our priority with teaching appointments.  We are just struggling to meet with all of our investigators, inactive members, and recent converts, and then to follow up with all of them.  There are just so many people to keep up with we really have our work cut out for us.  I can tell that Sister Acain is a little disappointed that we haven't had any baptisms, but we are praying that we will have three this April.  The area has been struggling, and the ward is not fellow shipping like we need them to be.  I have even given a talk, or more like a training on how to fellowship.  But I have not seen any change on that point.  Its been a fight.  I am really happy to be companions with Sister Acain she is my best friend.  She is such a great example to me of strong will to continue to work hard, and to be obedient.  She has a strong will power, and will not let anything tear her down.  She is diligent, patient, and a very smart.  I can't wait to see what miracles she brings with her next companions.  I am confident she is ready to train when I am transferred to Negros next transfer.     

We have eight investigators with a baptismal date hopefully all will be ready, but at this point only three have been coming to church.  We will do our very best to get our investigators to church this week.  We follow-up every week by text or even going with our investigators to church to make sure we are doing everything to help them understand how important going to church every week is.  I think that is the problem with many members in our ward they don't understand about the importance of attending church.  When it rains half of our ward doesn't show up its sad to see the wavering faith.  

I am far from perfect President I thought I would reach a higher level by this point, but I find my self falling short.  But I think that's good that I see what I need to work on.  They say that when you think you are perfect then that is when you are the most prideful.  I am grateful for you email this week about faith I think that maybe that is where I am lacking.  I think maybe the area would be much better if we could just gain more faith for our area.  I have run out of ideas for how to help our area, and this is maybe my answer.  I will study faith this week and hopefully that will help build it up to make miracles happen.  

I know there can be miracles when we believe.  I know problems are only problems when we let them be.  

I love you President Schmutz you really have been called of God to lead us.  I am grateful for your quiet dignity.

Love 

Sister Bruno

Finding Good

Dear President Schmutz,

I have found the mission to be not only the best 18 years for my life but the best 18 month of my life.  Some people say that the mission is to tiring, but I find it a wake up call.  I am sad that some people go away from their mission thinking of all the negatives, and not seeing how amazing every day here on the mission is.  I have decided to find out the good everyday instead of looking at the bad.  There has been many things that have happened in the last couple of months that could discourage any normal person, but I am here to say I am no normal person I am of royal blood.  No earthly thing will or can or should bring us to despair.  We are given the chance to be happy why should we give that away. 

President Schmutz I am happy.  I hope that my companion is happy too.  I really do love my companion and that she gives her all on the mission.  She is an asset here on the mission.  Sister Acain I can tell is growing in knowledge and faith.  She has a great love for our investigators, and i know that she is going to bring many souls unto Christ. 

Thank You President Schmutz for all that you do and the example you show.  Give my love to Sister Schmutz.

Love
Sister Bruno 

Mission Extension

Dear Family,

I got my extension approved.  It took two months, and I am not going home with a batch, but I think this is what is needed in my life right now.  I love the mission, and my companion.  I would hope that I marry someone like my companion now.  She is really amazing.  We always have fun even if trials happen we just seem to laugh off the bad.  That's the best medicine in life.  We don't have any clear baptisms yet but i know that miracles can happen with faith!

We have a zone activity right now so I have to go but I love you Stay 100 percent strong in the gospel and problems will go away.

I love you all

Love Sister Bruno

Overcoming Adversity

Dear Family, I am doing great here on the mission. I am waiting for the 100 percent of extending, but the area presidency and president schmutz have already approved my extending. All I am waiting for is the approval of the stake president I pray that he will let me extend. if I extend I will be coming home around June 7. If not I will be coming home April 26. Its not fun not knowing yet if I will extend or not, but it should be finalized or denied in the next week or so!! My companion Sister Acain and I seem always to be laughing at the things that come on the mission. I really do love her and we get along so well. Our investigators are all not so clear, but we are still working out the open area issue. Tonight I get to go back to my second area to my recent converts for a family home evening. They are all kind of inactive. We have a district FHE later and we will see what happens I hope I can encourage them to come back to church. its not easy to be a recent convert in the church especially when their are no fellowshippers. I am so grateful for my mission and the techniques I have learned to overcome adversity. I recently read in the true to the faith about adversity you all should read it I think it would help. I love the stories in the book of Mormon that have helped me in times of hardship or pain. I am still happy no matter what happens in life. Its about the state of mind not the state of being. Continue to study the scriptures and pray to our heavenly Father for his help with keeping our covenants. I love you all and pray that you to can feel only happiness in life through the trials. Love you with all my heart, Sister Bruno

Loves Companion

family, We plan on moving because our neighbors are weird. They have a little casino they have a little bar and they have a little park out whenever we come home. We decided that it would be best not to be in such an atmosphere. We are looking for a place to stay because actually the apartment is okay its the neighbors that are the problem. They are all relatives we are the outcasts. Transfers again this coming next week we will find out next p-day if we will transfer but I plan on being here at least another transfer. If my extension is not approved this will be my last transfer! I think though that it will be approved. I'm still waiting for the official word, but last zone conference I didn't give my testimony with my batch because President said I might as well wait... I think that means I will extend!! I don't know yet though!! I hope though that I can extend. My batch going home is sad because I wont be going home with them anymore but it will be worth it to extend. If I do extend I will be coming home the first week in June! if not the last week in April. I really love my companion. She really is my bestie!! She makes the mission fun. She has a super outgoing personality and she will tell you what she thinks. She is Spunky they say! I love you all see you soon Love Sister Bruno

Planning On A Mission

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Annika Bruno Date: Wed, Mar 7, 2012 at 11:03 AM Subject: President... To: cebumissionoffice@gmail.com Dear President Schmutz, This week has been successful. We are starting to see the progression of some investigators, but they haven't been to church yet. Their progression has been slow for some reason, and its hard to get a set schedule with most of our investigators and inactive members. Its starting to be a game of catching them when they are home. We have been doing much better with being more effective for nightly planning, but it seems so difficult to plan since most of the people have only night schedules so we can't visit everyone in one week. We seem to have so many people that we just can't met with them all. We are trying our best though. Sister Acain is very go get the job done kind of person. She has already taken the initiative to start nightly planning, and I am happy to let her try to lead the area. We are working together to get the ward involved. Things we request are done, but it just takes time with them. Sister Acain has already been on splits three times in just her 5 weeks here on the mission. I know it is helping her progress more quickly. We need to split because there are so many people we couldn't teach them all if we do not split. Sister Acain is very bright and I am glad for her ideas for the area. I am not worried about her leading the area or even training soon. She was prepared when she came on her mission. Much more prepared than I was. We plan on teaching Brother Dave this Saturday at 630PM. Are you still planning on attending President? We will teach about the book of Mormon. Another member also agreed to come with us to our lesson this Saturday. The only thing is that Bishop Caesar wants him to attend his ward so there will be no need to transition, and so we will need to work closely with the Lapulapu 2nd sisters so that when he comes to church he will go straight to their ward. There has been some success but also slow progression. This actually has been my slowest progressing area. We are working our hardest, and I have faith that if we continue to be obedient that we will start to see the change in the area. President also just following up about my extension is there any word about it being official. Thank you President. Sister Bruno

Fellowshipping

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Annika Bruno Date: Wed, Feb 29, 2012 at 3:51 PM Subject: Progress... To: cebumissionoffice@gmail.com Dear President Schmutz, This week has really been a humbling week. We have stayed close with the members especially those who like to feed us haha... but we used it as an opportunity to get them involved in fellow shipping. Talking with the members many concerns arise. Its sad to see so many people so unwilling to fellowship. We prayed about a fellow shipper for our inactive member with the LOC problem and when we received our answer we talked to that brother and he was unwilling to fellowship because of past things that had happened. We taught from the doctrine and covenants and the doctrine of Christ and his life, and he was still being difficult about it. His wife told him to stop being a drama queen and that he couldn't attend the next time the missionaries taught. She was teasing him, but in a way it was true it was hard to get him to be humble and forget the past and to act as Jesus would. We have realized that we are starting to be blessed in our area through our hard work. I wake up everyday so tired, but excited to start the day. We have many new investigators being prepared for baptism. I don't know how quickly they will progress, but we will be the most obedient we can and do everything in our power to help them understand the importance of baptism. Brother Dave and Sister Avegail are still willing to listen but their schedule is every other saturday. I am not sure why, but that is what brother Dave wants for now. We explained that it would be more beneficial if we were to meet at least once a week if not twice a week so he could understand the doctrine and not forget quickly, but he said he would rather it be every other Saturday. We have an appointment with him next Saturday if you would like to attend President. They said they they are married now. We have taught the restoration, and he said he has been taught the restoration many times. He seems to understand, but still has not received an answer to his prayer. We told him sometimes we receive an answer through our studying the book of Mormon, but he has cardaracs in his eyes so he cant see clearly. We suggested Sister Avegail read for him and we will also read with him the book of Mormon to help him gain a testimony. Brother Ong seems so prepared through listening to previous missionaries for baptism, but his work schedule is the problem he doesn't have a set work schedule so its hard to know when to catch him at home. He has not heard all of the lessons, but he said he believes that Joseph Smith is a prophet.l We will do everything we can to catch him at home, and continue to help his progression. We went to talk to brother Jonclar the other day. He was drunk at the time, but he opened up that he wants to continue to listen. he is growing in his desire to hear the gospel which is a huge improvement from when we first met him. He must have kept his commitment to pray about continuing to listen. We plan to go back on thursday. Word of wisdom will be a top priority to teach. Sister Acain is amazing. I feel she will be ready to train straight away after the training period. She really has a talent for teaching, and I can tell that she prepared before she came on her mission. Although she does not think she has much patience I have found she is a very humble and caring person. She has patience through any trial that has come her way. I have learns so much from her. I thought I was supposed to do the teaching, but I am grateful for the help. Elder Harris gave an amazing workshop for District meeting and it has helped me so much with getting rid of idol time on the mission. I have been growing so much on the mission, and can tell it has shaped me into the person that I want to be and that God wants me to be. My biggest fear is falling away from the church after the mission. I am glad I am being taught how to avoid becoming inactive by teaching the inactive people. Our area has been a challenge, but I have hope for the next couple of months that we will start seeing the fruits of our efforts. We turned over our investigator brother Robert to the Marigondon Elders, because he was not in our area and we had no support from the ward or bishopric since they said he is not in our area and long term he won't be our baptism. I think it was the right decision to start him in a ward that will support him and where he will continue his progression, and I can not wait to see the day that he will be baptized. its just sad that he had no support because he wasn't in our area. He is still a son of God and its the same work no matter where he lives. I am confident that Elder Harris and Elder Encarnacion will help him through his journey since they are such obedient elders. Our zone leaders are great too. I can really see the change in Elder Murillo and the desire to be obedient. Elder Cabrera is a good example for us all. I am excited to see what the next week will bring. Anything that might come I am ready to jump, leap, run, crawl, or any other action it takes to overcome the unseen obstacles that might occur. Like I said before BRING IT ON. Sister Bruno

Instruments in the Lord's Hands

Dear Elders and Sisters, It was so good to see you all at the various zone conferences earlier this week and last week. What a happy time for us to be with you, and feel of your Spirit. We visited Negros on Thursday, and Cebu North on Friday for zone conferences. We visited Cebu South on Monday and Bohol on Tuesday for zone conferences and got in late Tuesday evening. We also had the pleasure of visiting in Lamac for a baptismal service last Saturday and we stayed over for Sunday services. We were able to visit the Toledo 1 branch sunday afternoon. It was a busy week full of joy and memories. It was wonderful to be able to teach a workshop on something else instead of Obedience. In each zone, we felt such a strong spirit of happiness, excitement for the successes that are beginning to be seen, and unity in every zone. The last time we visited the zones was for Zone Interviews, about six weeks ago. I cannot tell you how much different the Spirit felt from that time to the zone conferences! It was an amazing transformation. As you know, we were the leader in all the Philippines missions in the number of visits we made to inactive members of the church, and we were second in the number of baptisms that we had as a direct result of visiting inactive and LA members. I feel so much happiness and joy in the work that we are doing together. Each of the last two weeks, I have felt a great surge in the spirit of the work, as if the Lord were beginning to open the windows of heaven to all of us. I feel that the Lord is well pleased with our mission at this time, and we are starting to truly magnify our calling as a mission, as we each individually and by companionship magnify our callings as missionaries. I hope and pray that you will all exercise your agency to become effective and sharpened instruments in the hands of God. I believe March will be a month that will mark the new course of the Mission and we will be able to look back on March to say that is where the blessings really started to appear. Be bold in making promises to your inactive members and investigators. Be filled with faith as you teach and encourage those you are working with to accept the commitments you invite them to make. We are laying a foundation here in Cebu Mission for true faith to take hold among the members, and for brethren to magnify their priesthood callings. The Lord has called each of you to be part of this great work. So stand and be counted! Let every missionary around you know that you have made the commitment, become converted, experienced the mighty change of heart! When everyone is setting an example of obedience, diligence, cheerfulness, and excitement about being a PMG missionary, all the missionaries will feel the same joy of belonging to such an elite group of missionaries. No one will choose to be disobedient. We will truly be like the 2060 stripling warriors, the sons and daughters of Helaman! Because of our schedule this last week, we have had very little time at home for using the computer. So only a few of you will receive personal letters this week. But we are at home most of the coming week, and all of you will receive personal letters for next week. I received word that imos will be down again today, for as much as six hours. You might be able to get on and send me a letter. You could reply to this letter if imos is not working. We love you! President Schmutz Sister Schmutz

Birthday Wishes

Dear Elders and Sisters, President and I returned home late last night after completing the final Zone Conference in Bohol. What a great week! We love being able to travel the mission and meet with all of you. Thank you for the spirit that you brought to each conference. We can't believe how lucky we are to be serving in this place, at this time, with you! Thank you also, for all of your birthday wishes and surprises this past week. You made my first birthday in the Philippines fabulous! One of the Sisters asked me what has been my favorite birthday of all time. Well, after last week I can easily say that 55 now moves to the top of my list. I can't believe how creative, talented, and imaginative you all are. Thank you. I hope you can feel my love for you. Now it is back to work! I think that we are all excited and energized by the good things happening in the mission. The Lord is keeping his promises to us here in the Cebu Mission. We are feeling and seeing the blessing that come when we are obedient and diligent. There is so much true joy and happiness in serving the Lord. So, Elders and Sisters, love the work, love your companion, love the people and most of all love the Lord! Have a great week. I love you. Warmly, Sister Schmutz

Overcoming Satan

Dear President Schmutz, No matter the things that satan has thrown in my path my goal is still the same. I would really like to extend. I talked to my father and mother before I asked to extend and they gave me permission. I am excited to see what God has in store for me when I extend, because the trials have been many. I am not sure who the trials are from, but I am strong in my faith that this work will go forth. I am proud to say that I am a part of Jesus Christ's true church that no matter what temptation comes I must and will conquer. I am saddened by some decisions of others but with faith all things are possible. God will prepare the way if we just keep our hope alive. I am glad that God gave me many trials as a child to be able to over come the trials on the mission. I know that whatever happens we have the right to choose for ourselves if we remain happy or we let satan rule. Some people act and some are acted upon. I choose to act to remain happy and to overcome anything that satan will bring. I say to satan now BRING IT ON. I am on the winning side I will not faulter or waver in what I know to be true. Someone said I will forgive you because you don't know the reality of life since you are on the mission. I just remember what you had said about the reality of the mission. Hello this is reality we choose there is no other world we live in at this time... We are seeing the blessings of the gospel in the life of Brother Robert who is deciding to go back to his wife, because he knows that what he is doing is wrong he decided to try to court his wife again. He has a great desire to be baptized but he still has many things to work out before he will be prepared to endure the covenants. I hope though because of his great desire it will be quick. We almost have the area working again. We plan to help it run smoother and be a blessing to the ward. We believe we will start seeing the blessings of our labors soon. We are praying for baptisms for our area. Elder Cabrera suggested a zone fast and I think it will be effective. Our zone leaders are great examples for this zone I really see the level of obedience rising. Sister Acain is great. She is so willing to be an obedient missionary. I know when she trains she will be a great leader. She already takes the initiative to lead when I don't understand all that is being said. its like elder Nielson said we need the Filipinos because we as Americans dont always understand the culture. Its a process on the mission with many trials but I know that Sister Acians dental will work out and that she will overcome all challenges. I am so grateful for you President Schmutz and the diligent example and leadership you show to us. Sister Bruno

Extension on Mission

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: <2012162-PRS@ldschurch.org> Date: Tue, Feb 21, 2012 at 5:52 PM Subject: Re: Weekly Report Sent on 15 Feb 2012 To: annika.bruno@myldsmail.net Dear Sister Bruno, It was good to see you recently at the Mission Home. It's too bad that Sister Acain is having so much trouble with her teeth. We'll try to work it out with her. But I am so pleased with her missionary attitude. It doesn't seem like she is afraid to open her mouth. And I'm glad that you two seem to be doing so well together. So you really want to extend a transfer, right? Okay, I believe that is going to happen. I should be able to let you know by the time of zone conference. But before we can make it official, you need to get your parent's permission. they will be required to pay one more month of support, and they might want you to come home. So have you already discussed this with them in an email? Let me know. If all is in place on your end, I'll call and talk with your Stake President. You need to get all those people married. No more LOC violations! YOu are a great missionary. Did I ever tell you how grateful I am that you are a missionary in this mission? You have a wonderful sense of humor, you work hard, you are completely obedient, and you will do anything the Lord requires of you, make any sacrifice, and you won't stop till its done. That is my kinda girl! So we got your endorsement all done. Let me know if you get in, or if you need anything else done. Have a great week. All my love, President Schmutz P.S. Where did you come up with the password kisskiss28? do we need to have an interview?

Charge to Stay Strong

I changed the password so that president could send the endorsement. But it is kisskiss28 I am sorrowed to the soul to hear that mom would do such a thing. I know that satan is real that he knows our weaknesses, but work things out if you can. I really hope for all of our sakes she has not committed Law of Chastity. I know you have many trials in your life and we have not helped but just so you know I love you and are here for you. Don't let this tear you away from the church but bring you closer to God. If we continue to follow the commandments I know that no matter what happens we will be happy in the next life. You are strong stay faithful no matter what is going on at home. I know it's not easy but continue to pray for the help from God read your scriptures, and go to church. Don't let anything stop you from eternal life. I know this will be a trial for our family, but for now I am focused on the work of God! Dad I know its not the best time to ask, but I would hope to still extend. President Schmutz said its almost final that I can I just need to make sure its okay with you and the stake President financially! I know its hard times but please if there is anyway to extend please let this be my final request before I have to come home to what is happening. Sister Bruno

Dear family, I am writing this to tell you that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true. That anything that happens in life through obedience to our Heavenly Father we will be blessed. Satan is real his attack is on the family. We must over come all temptation to follow the cunning one. He is lower than us. We have God's power to over come anything that satan may tempt us with. Our family must continue to fight. Just do your best and rely on God to do the rest. Stay close to Him and He will bless you. Be faithful and believing. Don't do anything that will jeopardize your eternal happiness. I have seen that the law of Chastity is the biggest problem with our investigators right now. We are teaching them to once again come unto Christ. Anything that we have done we can be forgiven of, but we must forsake the sin and return to the right path. I don't know what all will happen in life but I know with faith anything is possible. I know that God has a plan for all of His children, and that we can overcome the sadness and feel comfort when we seek God. He is always listening He will always help you through anything. We must continually seek for His spirit. Do not do anything that will cause the spirit of God to withdraw itself. I am not perfect on the mission, but I wake up everyday trying to reach that perfection, and when I fall short I repent pick myself up again and continue to seek that high level of perfection. I wake up again everyday close to Heavenly Father. We know we are close to God when we feel His spirit. Continue, be faithful, and until we meet again. I am always your sister in the faith. Love you all until eternity, Sister Bruno

Refined in the Furnace of Affliction

From: 2012162-PRS@ldschurch.org Date: Thu, Feb 9, 2012 at 4:28 AM Subject: Re: Weekly Report Sent on 1 Feb 2012 To: annika.bruno@myldsmail.net Dear Sister Bruno, How are you today? Are you enjoying your first week with Sister Acain? I hope she is coping with some of her medical / dental problems and she will be okay. That first week can be a little bit of an adjustment as you know, so love her and support her, and show her the way. I liked your reference to 1 Nephi 19 and 20. The fact that you were moved by the idea that the Lord chooses us and refines us "in the furnace of affliction" to do his work lets me know a lot about your spiritual progress and your willingness to see that these missionary experiences are very much designed for our own growth and development. As you look back on your mission, I'm sure that you can easily see how you have been refined, shaped and fashioned by the Lord in his furnace to do his will -- not just in this mission, but in the life you will lead in the years to come. It is so interesting, Sister Bruno, that we are all very different from one another. The Lord knows this. He designed and created us, after all. He takes all these wonderful differences, and if we allow him, he molds us and continues to "create us" into the creatures he desires us to be. You have your share of differences :). I think that is why I love you so much, and I'm sure it is part of the Lord's great love for you. I was inspired by your ability to see how important is the stark difference that will mark the lives of those who hearken and obey ("peace as a river, and righteousness as the waves of the sea") and those who reject the Lord and his commandments (no peace to the wicked). Why is it that so many many people never can put that clear warning into practice in their lives? Thanks for your statement of commitment and conviction. I believe this is a day of choosing. And I hereby acknowledge that you have chosen to side with God, to stand by me and all others who are willing to lay aside their weapons of rebellion. I am gratified that it is many who will stand together with us. There is no force that can oppose us because we will stand with our Master in this great cause. I'll love you forever, Sister Bruno. Keep up the good work. Show Sister Acain through love and example what it is all about. President Schmutz Your understanding of the gift of commandments and the blessings of obedience gives you such an advantage in this life. It has made you into a great missionary, capable of doing so many things.

Third Anak Child

Dear family, I am in my third open area. I am also training my third 'Anak' child on the mission. We are having fun in our new area, and finding many people ready to hear the gospel. My companion and I have the same birthday 24 Aug 1989! we think its funny because our personalities match so well. I really do love her lots. We are in an open area so the schedule is kind of hard to figure out still. We are still getting to know the area and the members, but Sister Pangue my first anak on the mission is in my ward lapu-lapu 1st and comes with us to teach almost everyday. She has extended going on her mission until march since she is still waiting for her visa, but i am glad she is still here to help us with the area. We have really good leaders that help us a lot. People have even made dinner appointments with us. Earlier we played basketball with the elders. They didn't guard us but it was still fun. Me and sister Acain guarded each other. I really hope that you all are doing okay. I love you Sister Bruno

New Companion in Lapulapu

Dear President Schmutz,

This week has been really good.  I love my companion Sister Acain.  She is very knowledgeable about the lessons, and its as if I do not have to train her much in the way to teach.  Her background in teaching is an advantage to her.  I can tell that she has worked with the missionaries before.  I almost feel that our companionship is more as equals.  We are continuing to be diligent about the studies, and although I have been over the material two times before I know there is so much more to learn if I stay focused in this program.  I feel Sister Acain is more than capable of training even after one transfer.  For sure she will be ready in two transfers after the training program.  I have given her some room to lead starting just after a couple of days.  We have become equals, but continue to correct when needed.  She really seems like she knows what she is doing.  Our personalities match so well together, and even our birthday is the same 24 August 1989...  

President Schmutz I was just wondering if you have been thinking about my request to extend.  I would understand if not because there is a possibility that there would be a threesome in this case it would be noneffective for me to stay, but if at all possible I am willing to stay if it would help the mission.

We are still getting to know the area, and the ward is supportive in our efforts.  We have a ward mission leader who is fresh off the mission so that helps a lot.

We have some new investigators and we are hoping they will become progressing investigators soon.  We are still meeting a lot of the members and inactive members so it might take a few weeks before we can get a set schedule going.  We plan to clean up the CMIS and work with the ward to visit all the members and the list.  We will let you know of our progress.

Thank you President Schmutz for your words of encouragement we were all sad not to have a chance to see you at our zone interview this past Wednesday, but we understand the circumstances.  Thank You for your words of love.  I just want to echo you in saying I love you both as heros and examples. 

Sister Bruno

Moving to Lapulapu

Date: January 25, 2012
Area: Lapulapu 1st Ward
Companion: Sister Taylor

Dear President Schmutz,

Can I just point out that this is my third open area. I want to say I accept that the Lord is trying to humble me. Its not easy opening an area its stressful, and it takes time to learn the area. I think though when I transfer in March to Negros ;) (just kidding but if its the Lords will...With faith hehe) that Sister Taylor will be much more prepared to lead since we are learning the area together.

PRESIDENT!! I think that Sister Schmutz needs to have a discussion with the elders about cleaning their apartments again. We came into the apartment shocked. Luckily we didn't have time to look around
since we went straight to work with the zone leaders. We luckily went to the store before coming home to the apartment and bought cleaning supplies while we were there It took me 6 hours to clean the bathroom. Can I just say its bad when you find a bottle of Domex and Zonrox bleach full, unused with mold growing on the out side. We thought it was pretty ironic! Supposedly the best cleaning product in the world Dormex with mold growing on the outside! Thank you president for the humbling experience.

We still estimate it will take about 3 weeks to clean the whole house it's a work in progress, but at least we have a spotless bathroom!!  Have I ever mentioned that I like a clean house almost to the point of OCD. I think I have discovered the reason the elders are getting sick so often. I think it has something to do with their mattresses. When I took the mattress cover off to be cleaned I discovered a black mattress pad underneath that smelled stale. I don't know how many elders have slept in that bed sick, and I am sure never washed the mattress cover after.

When I washed the mattress cover the first two rinses the water was black. Then next rinse cycle the water was brown. Then the next two rinse cycles the water was yellow!! I let the cover soak for about one full day then washed the years of dirt off of the cover. I refuse to sleep on the mattress pad and have just been sleeping on the wood part of the bed. It's not very comfortable, but at least I wont get sick.

Sister Taylor has braved it and just put her sheet on the bed she has yet to try to wash the cover she says if she doesn't look its like its clean, but she has gotten a small cough I told her its from sleeping on the
mattress. We texted Elder Ernstrom about getting new mattresses and hopefully they come soon. President I won't even tell you about the rest of the house! At least one positive thing is that I have only seen one dead cockroach under the fridge in the last week we have lived in the house. Unlike the last house when we had to fortify the house against the big roaches getting into the house. Ahh the life of a missionary. Maybe that's why they don't require the sisters to go on a mission they are afraid we will be scared for life when we get emergency transferred into elders' apartments. I hope that this will bring a smile to your  face remembering the time when you were an elder in the mission field president.

I would only hope that you weren't this bad about cleaning!! Also I  would like you to know Elder Hardin mentioned how clean the apartment was when he gave us the key. That's when you know your in for a big surprise!!

At least President I have Sister Pangue YEY!! She has been working with us for the last 4 days. She will work with us again tomorrow. Who trained that girl she is ready for her mission :) One concern of Sister Pangue though was that the elders would not go back to the basics they just did Book of Mormon share every lesson. I think that it's not a bad thing, but it would be more effective to review also especially since the ward has not done any new member lessons. I looked at the teaching records and almost all of the progress records were Book of Mormon share. I am not sure if this was laziness in filling out the progress record or if they really just do Book of Mormon shares. On the other hand it might be a good thing because they are focusing on the Book of Mormon. I am not sure yet since we are new into the area.

We have had the opportunity to teach one of their recent converts Sister Aileen (recent convert) and her husband Brother Brian Millang (member since child) and they had a strong testimony. We reviewed the restoration with her and have talked with the bishopric during PEC meeting about getting the ward members to do new member lessons. We also taught the brother Adrianne who is on and off active.He is 19 years old and has no desire to serve a mission. We plan to focus on getting him on a mission.

We visited the Commendador family. Sister Cesarnie is a recent convert. her son James has listened to the missionaries but he is just 15 years old going to school near Bogo. The father Brother Wilson has listened to the missionaries but likes to debate.

We have decided next time we visit we will try to get him to try to find his answers himself. Many of the bishopric have met him going to FHE's and they even agree he only likes to debate. We will continue to visit with him. He is a drinker though and we could not teach him last time since he had been drinking.

We visited the Ybanez family. Sister Wella the daughter walked us out of  the house after the lesson and opened up about her father. He has LOC problems for many years. She had just found out about it since they changed cell phones and she read his text messages. She is having a hard time, but we encouraged her rather than just sit in her house to come with us to work. She worked with us yesterday. We also have been encouraging her to serve a mission. She is 28 years old, and has a nonmember boyfriend. I hope that she doesn't take a wrong step in her life.

We visited the Jacob family who is active in the church. They inspire me for the future. We don't often visit faithful families, but when I got the chance to visit the Jacob family and share with them I could feel the hope in their house rather than the feeling going into the fallen and lost members houses.

We also visited Mary Fe Sorono, Christina Ngujo, Rustan Lamban, and Rose Cosip. They are all members. Sister Mary Fe and Christina have live-in partners. Sister Rustan is a returning member. Sister Rose is preparing to enter the temple. We discussed the importance of preparing ourselves to enter into the temple. It's interesting to see people in so many different stages.

We attended the PEC meeting yesterday and it was very helpful. We are starting to work with the bishopric to help the ward progress.

Sister Taylor is quiet. We don't talk much, but she is willing to lead the lessons, and follow the training program. I would say that we don't really relate, but we just co-exist. It's not a bad relationship. You realize on the mission that you don't have to relate to someone it's still possible to co-exist and do the work of the Lord. If you just serve them and be diligent in the work. I had hoped though that we would have a great relationship, but to be honest President we just go together like oil and water. Although you can put them into the same jar they will immediately separate into their individual sections of the jar. They can still co-exist and stay in the same jar without fighting, and sometimes you can get some cool effects like those toys with the blue water effect that drips into the bottom part and you can flip it. I don't know if you know what I am talking about but the point is we are doing our best. I am not sure we are the most effective together, but will we both stay diligent that I know for sure. Maybe we will be best friends after the mission. I am trying to be a good example, and so at least she can fly on her own. I am glad  I have learned patience through other companions for this period when I am having to train To quote you president with leadership comes a great responsibility.That with pressure on our shoulders it helps us stand.

Thank You President I know that your burden is far heavier than mine, and for that I am grateful that you are so willing to serve us missionaries with a permanent smile on your face.

Sincerely,

Sister Bruno

Companion Ready to Train

Dear President Schmutz, This week has been really good. i love my companion Sister Acain. She is very knowledgeable about the lessons, and its as if i do not have to train her much in the way to teach. Her background in teaching is an advantage to her. I can tell that she has worked with the missionaries before. I almost feel that our companionship is more as equals. We are continuing to be diligent about the studies, and although I have been over the material two times before I know there is so much more to learn if i stay focused in this program. I feel Sister Acain is more than capable of training even after one transfer. For sure she will be ready in two transfers after the training program. I have given her some room to lead starting just after a couple of days. We have become equals, but continue to correct when needed. She really seems like she knows what she is doing. Our personalities match so well together, and even our birthday is the same 24 August 1989... President Schmutz I was just wondering if you have been thinking about my request to extend. I would understand if not because there is a possibility that there would be a threesome in this case it would be noneffective for me to stay, but if at all possible I am willing to stay if it would help the mission. We are still getting to know the area, and the ward is supportive in our efforts. We have a ward mission leader who is fresh off the mission so that helps a lot. We have some new investigators and we are hoping they will become progressing investigators soon. We are still meeting a lot of the members and inactive members so it might take a few weeks before we can get a set schedule going. We plan to clean up the CMIS and work with the ward to visit all the members and the list. We will let you know of our progress. Thank you President Schmutz for your words of encouragement we were all sad not to have a chance to see you at our zone interview this past Wednesday, but we understand the circumstances. Thank You for you words of love. I just want to echo you in saying I love you both as heros and examples. Sister Bruno

Blessings of Obedience

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: <2012162-PRS@ldschurch.org> Date: Thu, Feb 9, 2012 at 4:28 AM Subject: Re: Weekly Report Sent on 1 Feb 2012 To: annika.bruno@myldsmail.net Dear Sister Bruno, How are you today? Are you enjoying your first week with Sister Acain? I hope she is coping with some of her medical / dental problems and she will be okay. That first week can be a little bit of an adjustment as you know, so love her and support her, and show her the way. I liked your reference to 1 Nephi 19 and 20. The fact that you were moved by the idea that the Lord chooses us and refines us "in the furnace of afflication" to do his work lets me know a lot about your spiritual progress and your willingness to see that these missionary experiences are very much designed for our own growth and development. As you look back on your mission, I'm sure that you can easily see how you have been refined, shaped and fashioned by the Lord in his furnace to do his will -- not just in this mission, but in the life you will lead in the years to come. It is so interesting, Sister Bruno, that we are all very different from one another. The Lord knows this. He designed and created us, after all. He takes all these wonderful differences, and if we allow him, he molds us and continues to "create us" into the creatures he desires us to be. You have your share of differences :). I think that is why I love you so much, and I'm sure it is part of the Lord's great love for you. I was inspired by your ability to see how important is the stark difference that will mark the lives of those who hearken and obey ("peace as a river, and righteousness as the waves of the sea") and those who reject the Lord and his commandments (no peace to the wicked). Why is it that so many many people never can put that clear warning into practice in their lives? Thanks for your statement of commitment and conviction. I believe this is a day of choosing. And I hereby acknowledge that you have chosen to side with God, to stand by me and all others who are willing to lay aside their weapons of rebellion. I am gratified that it is many who will stand together with us. There is no force that can oppose us because we will stand with our Master in this great cause. I'll love you forever, Sister Bruno. Keep up the good work. Show Sister Acain through love and example what it is all about. President Schmutz Your understanding of the gift of commandments and the blessings of obedience gives you such an advantage in this life. It has made you into a great missionary, capable of doing so many things.

Converted to Become Great

Dear President Schmutz, When I decide to make a great change in my life it seems like satan just pounds me down. But I will go on despite discouraging words from anyone I will change. I was studying in Nephi today. I like how Nephi talks about likening the scripture unto ourselves in 1 Nephi chapter 19. Then in chapter 20 I read verse 10 it says "For, behold, I have refined thee, I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction." I was thinking of your words President Schmutz from yesterday about how we are fern bushes that we are cut down to become what He wants us to be. This scripture adds to this point. We are cut down or refined through affliction because we were chosen and we accepted this calling. We knew before in pre-mortal life this would happen and so, its a time of choosing. The questions are: Will I live up to my potential? Will I hearken unto the Father and the Son? Or do I choose to be cut off? As missionaries we must choose where our loyalty lies. If we are obedient we will live up to our full potential because we are guided by the spirit, and we will be able to declare His word. Also looking at verse 14 I really like what it says "All ye, assemble yourselves, and hear; who among them hath declared these things unto them? The lord hath loved him" when guided by the spirit we can feel that love. I know I have felt that love the strongest when I am most obedient. Obedience is the key to happiness when we go on to verse 18 we can see how being obedient brings a great blessing it says "O that thou hadst hearkened to my commandments--then had thy peace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea." then we see the opposite if we don't obey Nephi goes onto say in verse 22 "there is no peace, saith the Lord, unto the wicked." we are building a culture of obedience on the mission, and I am inspired to be a part of that culture. I am grateful for the chance to train again for the third time and I hope this time I will never falter from being 100% obedient. I officially give up my weapons of rebellion president. I am converted to become great. I have chosen my side and these is no going back to neutral ground. I can remember a quote that talks about being on neutral ground. Not on Satan's side and not on God's side. I want to apply this to the missionaries right now. We are standing on metaphorical neutral ground and in the last week the call has been sent out. This call is the call of choosing sides. To stay and be obedient or to go home and figure things out. To keep fighting on the side of God or to give up give into satan. The quote said once we step off of neutral ground there is no going back. We can only make a betrayal. If we choose God we must stay faithful or the consequences will be severe. I am stepping off of neutral ground. I have chosen my side. I am on your side President. It's a fight to the death now. Hurrah for Israel. Sister Bruno

Peace In My Heart

Dear Elders and Sisters,

 

It has been a very hard two weeks, and right before that the zone interviews.  So I guess it's been a very difficult four weeks.  But right now, I feel peaceful and excited.  I want all of you to know that I am exceedingly optimistic about the future.  For out of small things comes that which is great.  If all of you will realize how very important you are to the work, each of you, you will become a much greater part of the vision of the mission.  In D&C 123:14-17, the Lord teaches us a wonderful principle of the importance of a single person in bringing to pass his great work:  "These [things] should then be attended to with great earnestness.  Let no man count them as small things; for there is much which lies in futurity pertaining to the saints, which depends upon these things. You know, brethren [and sisters], that a very large ship is benefitted by a very small helm in the time of storm, by being kept workways with the wind and the waves. Therefore, dearly beloved brethren, let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed."

 

If we will all do our parts, in the little things, we will be able to steer the large ship of this mission to its destination.  We will see the salvation of God come into the lives of those we teach and one another, and we will see the arm of the Lord revealed through miracles in our areas and companionships.

 

I know that you all look for my letters. I know that you like to receive personal letters more than letters sent to everyone.  But you must realize that sometimes events are such that it becomes impossible to find the time needed.  Such has been the state of affairs in the last couple of months.  Last week I started on names with letter "A" and wrote until I had no more time.  This week I am starting on "Z" and going backwards in the alphabet.  You should be reading this letter on Thursday.  All of you who did not get a letter from me last week should have one this week.  If you look for it on Wednesday, you are too early.  Check for your letter on Thursday.

 

In the future, I am going to write at least half of you every week.  So you should get a letter at least every other week.  But I want you to write me a letter every week :)  The only weeks when you don't need to write a letter is on Zone Interview weeks, when we have an interview.

 

We love all of you.  PLEASE REMEMBER TO FAST FOR THE MISSION THIS FAST SUNDAY.  Thanks.

 

President Schmutz

 

Elders Can Be Pigs

Dear Fams,

We get emergency Transferred to Lapulapu 1st.  We are assigned in an elders area.  Our area Cebu 5th that I reopend and then it got closed again after two transfers since some elders went home and they needed to close an area.  We had trainers training and while eating pizza President asked to interview us before we left.  He asked about support of the area, and our investigators.  The next day the assistants to the president called us and told us we would be transferred to Lapulapu the next day Saturday.  The transfer call was made.  This is my third open area on the mission.  It's super tiring since we have no clue about the area.  At least the area is way cleaner.  I can't see the ocean but at least there is a breeze!  

To quote my letter to president...

PRESIDENT!! I think that Sister Schmutz needs to have a discussion with the elders about cleaning their apartments again.  We came into the apartment shocked.  Luckily we didnt have time to look around since we went straight to work with the zone leaders.  We luckily went to the store before coming home to the apartment and bought cleaning supplies while we were there.  It took me 6 hours to clean the bathroom.  Can I just say its bad when you find a bottle of Domex and zonrox bleach full, unused with mold growing on the out side.  We thought it was pretty ironic!  Supposedly the best cleaning product in the world Dormex with mold growing on the outside! Thank you president for the humbling experience.  We still estimate it will take about 3 weeks to clean the whole house its a work in progress, but at least we have a spotless bathroom!!  Have I ever mentioned that I like a clean house almost to the point of OCD.  I think I have discovered the reason the elders are getting sick so often.  I think it has something to do with their mattresses.  When I took the mattress cover off to be cleaned I discovered a black mattress pad underneath that smelled stale.  I dont know how many elders have slept in that bed sick, and I am sure never washed the mattress cover after.  When I washed the mattress cover the first two rinses the water was black.  Then next rinse cycle the water was brown.  Then the next two rinse cycles the water was yellow!!  I let the cover soak for about one full day then washed the years of dirt off of the cover.  I refuse to sleep on the mattress pad and have just been sleeping on the wood part of the bed.  Its not very comfortable, but at least I wont get sick.  Sister Taylor has braved it and just put her sheet on the bed she has yet to try to wash the cover she says if she doesn't look its like its clean, but she has gotten a small cough I told her its from sleeping on the mattress.  We texted Elder Ernstrom about getting new mattresses and hopefully they come soon. President I won't even tell you about the rest of the house!  At least one positive thing is that I have only seen one dead cockroach under the fridge in the last week we have lived in the house.  Unlike the last house when we had to fortify the house against the big roaches getting into the house.  Ahh the life of a missionary.  Maybe that's why they don't require the sisters to go on a mission they are afraid we will be scared for life when we get emergency transfered into elders apartments.  I hope that this will bring a smile to your face remembering the time when you were an elder in the mission feild president I would only hope that you weren't this bad about cleaning!! Also I would like you to know Elder Hardin mentioned how clean the apartment was when he gave us the key.  Thats when you know your in for a big surprise!!

The apartment was way worse than the other apartment that we were in last transfer....  Elders!

I STILL NEED TO NEW ADDRESS OF YOUR HOUSE TO GIVE ON MY TRUNKY LETTER TO THE OFFICE!!  Thanks.

Life of a missionary its full of surprises.

Love you

Sister Bruno 

Missionary Companions Coexisting on a Mission?

Dear President Schmutz,

Can I just point out that this is my third open area.  I want to say I accept that the Lord is trying to humble me.  Its not easy opening an area its stressful, and it takes time to learn the area.  I think though when I transfer in march to Negros ;) (just kidding but if its the Lords will...With faith hehe) that Sister Taylor will be much more prepared to lead since we are learning the area together. 

PRESIDENT!! I think that Sister Schmutz needs to have a discussion with the elders about cleaning their apartments again.  We came into the apartment shocked.  Luckily we didnt have time to look around since we went straight to work with the zone leaders.  We luckily went to the store before coming home to the apartment and bought cleaning supplies while we were there.  It took me 6 hours to clean the bathroom.  Can I just say its bad when you find a bottle of Domex and zonrox bleach full, unused with mold growing on the out side.  We thought it was pretty ironic!  Supposedly the best cleaning product in the world Dormex with mold growing on the outside! Thank you president for the humbling experience.  We still estimate it will take about 3 weeks to clean the whole house its a work in progress, but at least we have a spotless bathroom!!  Have I ever mentioned that I like a clean house almost to the point of OCD.  I think I have discovered the reason the elders are getting sick so often.  I think it has something to do with their mattresses.  When I took the mattress cover off to be cleaned I discovered a black mattress pad underneath that smelled stale.  I dont know how many elders have slept in that bed sick, and I am sure never washed the mattress cover after.  When I washed the mattress cover the first two rinses the water was black.  Then next rinse cycle the water was brown.  Then the next two rinse cycles the water was yellow!!  I let the cover soak for about one full day then washed the years of dirt off of the cover.  I refuse to sleep on the mattress pad and have just been sleeping on the wood part of the bed.  Its not very comfortable, but at least I wont get sick.  Sister Taylor has braved it and just put her sheet on the bed she has yet to try to wash the cover she says if she doesn't look its like its clean, but she has gotten a small cough I told her its from sleeping on the mattress.  We texted Elder Ernstrom about getting new mattresses and hopefully they come soon. President I won't even tell you about the rest of the house!  At least one positive thing is that I have only seen one dead cockroach under the fridge in the last week we have lived in the house.  Unlike the last house when we had to fortify the house against the big roaches getting into the house.  Ahh the life of a missionary.  Maybe thats why they don't require the sisters to go on a mission they are afraid we will be scared for life when we get emergency transfered into elders apartments.  I hope that this will bring a smile to your face remembering the time when you were an elder in the mission feild president I would only hope that you weren't this bad about cleaning!! Also I would like you to know Elder Hardin mentioned how clean the apartment was when he gave us the key.  Thats when you know your in for a big surprise!!

At least President I have Sister Pangue YEY!!  She has been working with us for the last 4 days.  She will work with us again tomorrow.  Who trained that girl she is ready for her mission :) One concern of sister Pangue though was that the elders would not go back to the basics they just did book of mormon share every lesson.  I think that its not a bad thing, but it would be more effective to review also especially since the ward has not done any new member lessons.  I looked at the teaching records and almost all of the progress records were book of mormon share.  I am not sure if this was laziness in filling out the progress record or if they really just do book of mormon shares.  On the other hand it might be a good thing because they are focusing on the book of mormon.  I am not sure yet since we are new into the area. 

We have had the oppurtunity to teach one of their recent converts Sister Aileen(recent convert) and her husband Brother Brian Millang(member since child) and they had a strong testimony.  We reviewed the restoration with her and have talked with the bishopric during PEC meeting about getting the ward members to do new member lessons.  We also taught the brother Adrianne who is on and off active.  He is 19 years old and has no desire to serve a mission.  We plan to focus on getting him on a mission.

We visited the Commendador family.  Sister Cesarnie is a recent convert.  her son James has listened to the missionaries but he is just 15 years old going to school near Bogo. The father brother Wilson has listened to the missionaries but likes to debate.  We have decided next time we visit we will try to get him to try to find his answers himself.  Many of the bishopric have met him going to FHE's and they even agree he only likes to debate.  We will continue to visit with him.  He is a drinker though and we could not teach him last time since he had been drinking. 

We visited the Ybanez family.  Sister Wella the daughter walked us out of the house after the lesson and opened up about her father.  He has LOC problems for many years.  She had just found out about it since they changed cell phones and she read his text messages.  she is having a hard time, but we encouraged her rather than just sit in her house to come with us to work.  She worked with us yesterday.  We also have been encouraging her to serve a mission.  She is 28 years old, and has a nonmember boyfriend.  I hope that she doesn't take a wrong step in her life.

We visited the Jacob family who is active in the church.  They inspire me for the future.  We don't often visit faithful families, but when I got the chance to visit the Jacob family and share with them I could feel the hope in their house rather than the feeling going into the fallen and lost members houses. 

We also visited MaryFe Sorono, Christina Ngujo, Rustan Lamban, and Rose Cosip.  They are all members.  Sister MaryFe and Christina have live-in partners.  Sister Rustan is a returning member.  Sister Rose is preparing to enter the temple.  We discussed the importance of preparing ourselves to enter into the temple.  Its interesting to see people in so many different stages. 

We attended the PEC meeting yesterday and it was very helpful.  We are starrting to work with the bishopric to help the ward progress. 

Sister Taylor is quiet.  We don't talk much, but she is willing to lead the lessons, and follow the training program.  I would say that we don't really relate, but we just co-exist.  Its not a bad relationship.  You realize on the mission that you don't have to relate to someone it's still possible to co-exist and do the work of the Lord.  If you just serve them and be diligent in the work.  I had hoped though that we would have a great relationship, but to be honest President we just go together like oil and water.  Although you can put them into the same jar they will immediately seperate into their individual sections of the jar.  They can still co-exist and stay in the same jar without fighting, and sometimes you can get some cool effects like those toys with the blue water effect that drips into the bottom part and you can flip it.  I dont know if you know what I am talking about but the point is we are doing our best.  I am not sure we are the most effective together, but will we both stay diligent that I know for sure.  Maybe we will be bestfriends after the mission.  I am trying to be a good example, and so at least she can fly on her own.  I am glad I have learned patience through other comapnions for this period when I am having to train.  To quote you president with leadership comes a great responsibilty.  That with pressure on our shoulders it helps us stand.

Thank You President I know that your burden is far heavier than mine, and for that I am grateful that you are so willing to serve us missionaries with a permenant smile on your face. 

Sincerly,

Sister Bruno