Baptism: Lita Family

Hello Po,

It's More Fun in the Philippines:

• The Bagyo (storm) hit us, but was over in a few hours. We had been expected a pretty good storm, so  ll of the schools were cancelled. However, after a few days of no storm, they decided to start the school up again. Well, that same day was when the storm decided to work its way in! All in all, schools were all closed early, we got soaking wet in the rain, and laughed our way through it.
• Our Preparation Day (email day) is now being changed from Thursday to Monday. Share Ko Lang (FYI)
• ALSO!! My brother, Colby, is in the Philippines!!! I won't be able to see him, but it's cool to know that he is enjoying the Philippines as much as I am.

The Baptism of Lani and Jack Lita was on Saturday, August 10.

Here is their story from my perspective:

May 30, I asked a member of our Church to introduce me to his neighbor which he kindly did, and this neighbor was Lani and Jack Lita. They are a couple with 3 kids (lance 6, Altaya 4, Jael 2). Originally Jack was very shy, and I figured that was just to us since we are foreigners. Over time we began sharing with them and pretty soon they began attending church. Jack had bad issues with alcohol and cigarettes. We helped him come over these problems, and now he completely avoids those substances. Lani and Jack were married on July 25, and I was so happy to attend that marriage. Overtime Jack became more open around us, and Lani ate up the Book of Mormon (currently in Alma 12). I saw them grow together, and was so happy to be able to baptize them on August 10.

Their story from the perspective of Lani: (Translated to English)

I was scared when I saw two Americans come to my door. I thought my nose would bleed (It's a Filipino thing). I cant speak in English. I was surprised that you could speak Tagalog. Because of the missionaries and The Church of Jesus Christ jack and I talk. He never talked to me before, he was always with his work friends drinking. Now he takes care of the kids. On Sundays the kids remind us about church. My life has changed. thank you.

Elder Hemmert

PS. Another email is coming on Monday. Get ready for my Weekly Challenge that will be coming out...