Christmas Week!!!

Elder Hoggan's Christmas was AMAZING! GruB Euch!

But first, Pday (Monday), brought an appointment with Michaela and Angelina. These sisters were taught the ten commandments, the importance of praying, reading scriptures, and going to church. Elder Hoggan loves teaching the gospel so simply to children. They understand and have a desire to hear the truthfulness of our Savior's church.

Elders Hoggan, Young, Jerman, and Smith went caroling the next day. The train wouldn't be coming for hours, so they had fun getting weird looks while singing. Some people took pictures, some tried to give the missionaries money, and some pulled their cars close to listen. Elder Hoggan almost lost his voice, but the train eventually arrived and took these four to their destination at Familie Dzierzon.

Heilige Abend is the night before Christmas. Games were played, Luke 2 was read, and musical numbers were sung. This reminded Elder Hoggan of Christmas Eve parties and programs back home with loved ones. Traditions are cherished when distances keep us far from our family and friends.

The gift exchange that night revealed new notebooks for each missionary. They were much needed. After a nice meal, they all attended a Catholic mass where Familie Dzierzon's daughters were playing in an orchestra. A very interesting experience which strengthened Elder Hoggan's testimony of the truthfulness of the restored gospel.

The Elders enjoyed Christmas Day and their gifts. Ward members gave them a ton of candy and socks. Later, the missionaries went to a members home to play games, SKYPE, and eat.

It's been a tough week for missionary work due to the holidays, but Friday and Saturday flew by.

Saturday night, the ward pianist called for a substitute. She had tried everyone possible and then she chose to follow Elder Russell M. Nelson's counsel to "ask the missionaries. They can help you." Elder Hoggan played the piano Sunday! The opening song was Sweet Hour of Prayer! The sacrament hymn was While of These Emblems We Partake! Choose the Right was an intermediate hymn! God Be With You Til We Meet Again was the closing song. Way to go, Elder Hoggan! Your mom is so very proud of you!!

Elder Hoggan also taught an investigator at church that day on the Law of Chastity. Wow! Such a busy Sabbath. It went well, of course.

Hand washing clothes has been done by the Elders this week. Their washing machine is broken. How grateful they will be to have it working.

After New Years Day, transfer calls will be coming.