Christmas 2009

We talked to Elder Nelson on Christmas day and he is doing great.  It seems he has a good and obedient Trainer who is teaching him to be a great missionary.  Elder Nelson explained that they are opening up a new area and therefore have started from scratch on finding people to teach about the gospel.  They have been teaching a few families and have begun to love them very much but it appears that many are not ready to change their lives and be baptized.

Elder Nelson is serving in what he describes as a small ward.  The members there take good care of the missionaries and feed them more than they can swallow.  We found out why he doesn't like the food:  tomatoes.  Elder Nelson does not like tomatoes and they are served to him very frequently.  Apparently, people in Jardin de Valle rely on tomatoes as a mainstay in their diet.

We are so proud of Elder Nelson and the tremendous growth we can see taking place in his life.  We are very pleased to see other's lives being blessed by his service.

Christmas Eve at a member's home.  Here we see Elder Nelson, his companion Elder Murillo, Elder Merrill, Elder Mayberry, and the nice host of the house.  In Chile, the big celebrations take place all day on Christmas Eve with a big dinner and presents opened at midnight.

Christmas Eve dinner at the home of a member.  Big crowd!

The Elders received special pillows with Christian sayings on them from their friendly host.

Christmas Day at Elder Nelson's apartment.

 

 

Opening presents from home.  We are surprised they waited to open them.  Check out the Christmas Tree!