November 9: letter to family

Hi Sister,

I really don't know what to say except I love being a missionary.  We have some amazing people we are working with, and I know we need to do a lot more to be worthy to lead them to Christ.  It's amazing at how easy it is for people to love. 

Thank you for pictures!  You two our cute.  One of our investigators is with us this week, so I showed them to her!  Her name is Yana.  She, is our new best friend.   She wants to be with us so much she could be our companion!  And, maybe in one year, after she is baptised, she will go on a mission.  It's amazing to see the gospel change her life!  Unfortunately, members keep saying horrible things about the Provoslovnic church which doesn't not help our efforts in creating friendships or trust between them.  But, she is forgiving and I hope things will go better this week as we talk about baptism!  (Oh, she is one of the blessing from swine flu!!)

Well, I love new weeks and new opportunities to grow, be better and share the gospel!

I'm trying not to get frustrated, but I can see how marriage is tough.  I love my companion, but it's hard to serve her all the time.  Well, it just means I'm not yet selfless and I still have a long way to go.

I also love your e-mails.  Every week I find something inspiring I can apply in my life.  So, thanks.

Oh, there is a guy, an eternal investigator of the elders.  His name is Sasha.  He speaks english, is 25, and wants to know more about studying in America.  I couldn't talk to him about it b/c I am a missionary, but here is his e-mail....I told him you had some Ukrainians in your apartments and they could give him some info.  Is it okay for you to pass on his e-mail?

So, Nactya was sick, and her mother is afraid of the swine flu.  So she wouldn't let her out after she recovered. But, maybe this week.  She really wants to meet with us!

Sister Vira is fine, a really sweet lady.  We went to visit her and she feed us green borscht.  Tonight we are celebrating my companions b-day at church and we have a lot to do today.  It's crazy.  But, we have a lot of help.  Yana is going to be with us all day!  I love this girl.  Her mother passed away when she was little.  Her father is pretty awful, like a lot of men here.  (Alcohol doesn't help.)  Recently her Aunt had a stroke so she spends a lot of time at her apartment taking care of her.  We visited them last week; it was sweet!  Yana doesn't want to know about religion.  But, I said that is what we do.  She loves us and wants to be with us.  We want to share with her the gospel.  It's been incredible to see her desire grow and the small things she has been applying in her life as she learns.

How did Dan feel about his call.  How exciting!

I should stop eating sweets too.  
I love you both.  I love being a missionary.  I know I am not perfect and I could be much better.  I don't want to stop the progress of the work here because of my iniquities, so I repent and try again.

Well, it's crazy late, and we have much to do,

Love,

Sister Murphy

Hello Grandma and Grandpa!

No, I'm not sick and no one I know is, but the goverment here closed all of the schools for three weeks, so we have students to teach!

One quick request: don't give anyone else my e-mail address.  I don't have time to read 10 e-mails every week.  As much as I love everyone; I love you best!  The church requests that we only give our e-mail addresses to our families.

So, keep it on the down low!

You have been busy!  Way to go!  and smiling!  This is the best time of year.  It goes by fast.  It starts with g-ma's birthday and then Thanksgiving, Grandpa's birthday, Christmas, New year, and THEN this year will be Ukrainian Christmas!  They celebrate it on the 5th or 6th!  Cool!

Well, now that I am away from the office I don't receive mail very often.  Remeber my first transfer I worked in the same area.  Actually the mission office was in the back of the ward building, so every time I went to church I could go to the office.  We also had district meeting there once a week, and so I received mail every week. Now it's about every 3 weeks, and no I haven't been receiving much mail.

That's okay though.  I didn't come on a mission to receive mail.

What can I tell you this week.  Oh, transfer information.  I will be staying here for 6 more weeks with my Armenian companion who speaks Russian!  I'm learning a lot, but I still have much progress I need to make.  We serve 2 branches- very small.  Now that the "virus" is out people here are afraid to go anywhere.  So, on Sunday our first branch had about 20 people, plus 4 missionaries and our 2nd branch had about 25.
What awesome weather!  We also had a few nice days this week.  We were tricked and sweating as we rushed around all day in our wool coats, leather gloves, scarfs and hats.

Um: Christmas: haven't I already listed a few ideas?  Other than that, how about a few cans of canned pumpkin.  We want pumpkin pie.

and recipes: but don't send through the mail any recipe books.  I don't have enough room in my luggage.  E-mail me a few easy quick suggestions...
You can do that!

Like apple pie,  pumpkin pie, and a tasty crust...

We only have a few weeks until Novemeber and we want to have a little American Thanksgiving celebration, so we need apple pie!

Well, Friday was my companions birthday.  So, I made her a cake and we had a surprise b-day party after English class.  Really fun.  Today, we are having a ward party!  So, we have a lot to prepare for.  I'm sorry I don't have much time.  I love you!

I love being here.  I have much I need to change and be better and I'm thankful for the love of a Perfect Savior who gives me the strength, inspiration, example and way to do it.
I'm also thankful for you!

I love you,

Sister Murphy!

Letter to Family (Nov 2nd)

Hello Family,

So, I spent some time reading some conference talks and I don't have much time to write today.  I'm sorry.  But, I want to tell you about this week.  Our mission is having a dedication week.  Which means if we haven't been doing everything we could be doing, we are going to now.  And because I am not perfect of course I have a lot to change.  It's been a trial of a transfer.  We have this mission goal: 100 baptisms.  We are all excited for it.  Of course there are 100 elect people who want to know truth.  We just have to find them.  

This week I want more than anything else to receive the blessing of our Heavenly Father.  And I know that in order to receive blessing I need to be worthy - obedient and diligent.  Right now the blessing I desire most and have been praying for is to find the elect, someone who is searching for God's truth.  But, this morning as I read my e-mails I learned that I won't know who wants to know or who wants the help until I invite them.  So, I will be bolder this week in extending clearer invitations explaining what the Gospel is.  I am excited for this dedication week.  I know that the more I give up the more Christ can really take control of my life and help me to be the witness that He needs me to be.  

It's been hard.  Satan has a plan too...

So, here is a miracle story. Friday morning we got on a Marshutka to go to church.  I sat next to a girl and gave her an English advertisement.  I asked her if she was studying English and told her I was from America.  We talked about her life and what she was doing in scool, after school, what she wants to do, etc.  I asked her if she went to church and other questions.  She gave me her number.  Well, at our stop I said good-bye, got off and started talking to my companion about this awesome girl!  She wants to study in America after college…hmm...I know a few good American universities where she can be surrounded by students with strong faith in the gospel.  We were enjoying planning out her future and her baptism when all of a sudden there was a tap on my shoulder.

Nacstya, got out of the "van" and ran after us!  She came with us to church where we met another girl from English and sang church hymns about Christ and the Restoration!  We had a fun afternoon.  Oh it was Halloween!  It was cool.  We will meet with her this afternoon as well...to invite her to come unto Christ!

Oh, here is our 2nd chydo:

Our first branch had their meetings and I stepped into Relief Society pretty much on time for the closing prayer.  Our senior missionaries were in town this Sunday (they come every other Sunday) so I wanted to see if I could help Sister Petty understand what they were talking about.  (Or if we would both just pretend to understand!)  J

Sister Vira (which means faith...so her name is faith), stood up to say the closing prayer.  However, in the middle of the prayer she began to have what we think was a stroke.  The elders were all waiting outside in our chapel for a baptism at 1.  I quickly asked them to come and give her a blessing.  We sat her down and the Elders anointed.  They said that she was shaking until they finished.  But, she was okay after the prayer.  We were all fasting for missionary work, and although she didn't want to, we begged her to eat something and drink some water.  I'm sorry it's not the clearest story, but the elders are distracting me.  Well it's not distracting; they are telling me about their other miracles this week.  We are discussing our plans for the day and our investigators.  I have an awesome district!  Elder Miller is going home next week.  Crazy!

Swine Flu...

So, grandma keeps telling me about the crisis over there.  Well, this week I learned about the crisis we have here!

Our branch was going to the temple this weekend, but Ukraine has advised or maybe just closed the country so that people are not to go out of the country.  About 40 people have died, so no one from Ukraine can go to the temple for a few months.  We have faith.  We know that it is just another test for us to do the work.

I love you.

I want to be the best missionary I can.

I have so many things I want to tell you.  But there’s never enough time.

Pray for us.  Be happy!

Live the Gospel!

Love,

 

Sister Murphy

Letter to Siblings (October 26)

Hello,

You are an amazing brother!  I love you!  I think it's cool you are in beautiful VA.  Shawn lives there, you know?  So, yes, I just killed a spider with a post-it-note filled with important Ukrainian words like butterfly and cup/saucer.  So, here I am in an Internet club in the middle of Ukraine surrounded by people who speak Russian, checking facebook, and playing Internet games with castles and guns and stuff.  Not very many people have computers here.  So, we all get to hang out (well we do on Monday mornings) together to connect with the world.  You are inspiring.  You are living a life not really your own.  Friends change, no permanent place to sleep.  It's always different.  So, that's inspiring.  And I understand; every six week I find out if I'm being transferred.  What are you doing to stay busy?

I love you lots!

Love,

Sister Murphy!

 

Sister,

 

I received a lot of e-mails about elders today.

No, I didn't get Diane's package, but I have not lost hope.  Remember we changed mission addresses, so I'm pretty sure she sent it to our old office.  The church still owns it, so it could be on its way.  Advice: Put pictures of Christ or find some catholic pictures or icons and put them on the box.  That is what Dear Elder does...remember this country is very Provaslovnic.  The mission office is where my mail goes.  I don't think it will change for a few years.  So no matter where I go, the mail always goes there.  The only thing that changes with this transfer is now I will not receive mail every week.

Oh, I love places that have bathrooms.  No matter how unsanitary they are.

In other news,

I have lots of phlegm on my vocal chords, making it difficult for my um...hmm... I forgot what they are called...to vibrate.   Therefore, my voice actually sounds like a Russian man!  If people can hear me they might not actually think I'm American and just think I'm illiterate.  

Although my grammar is getting better, I still have a lot of work to do.  And I'm sad that the Elder's I'm going home with have had a whole extra year.  My goal is to get to their level...Fast.

 

Today we are going to prepare for next or next, next week's activity: an Armenian night with my companion.  It's her Birthday on the 6th.

 

We are having a branch missionary fast on Sunday.

 

There are some beautiful girls from English Practice who are so much fun.  We’ve been talking with them about the gospel.  Whoa...speaking of which...how random.  Yana just texted us.  She said: "Hi, my girls! :)!  I miss you!  Sister Merfy, how's your throat?"  Isn't she the best!

Thanks for thinking of me.  This past week was tough.  It was like hitting a wall.  I'm so thankful that I have a testimony of the Gospel.  I just don't understand why anyone else doesn't have the desire to know or to find out.  Well, I guess I should say the people we met with this week. We didn't find any new investigators.  I learned that Satan will want us to waste our time by working with those who aren't elect.  So, we've planned better this week and haven't given up.  I know that this is an opportunity to grow and stretch.  I'm thankful for the Savior and His help.  I know that we don't have to do it alone and He will help us this week and every day.  I have high expectations for this week, but I do know that it starts with me and my worthiness and preparation.

My companion and I argued 2 times, but we forgave and understand now.  It's hard.  But, I love her.  We do have lots of fun together.  I wish I could have more fun in lessons, but they are mostly in Russian, and I only understand the serious stuff not the life stuff.  I promise she is wonderful.  She is happy and sweet and full of love!  We just differ in how we think missionary work should be done.  Although, we figured it out!

 

Well, there is a strange man standing behind me.  I think he wants my computer!  So, I better write President!

Today we are going to explore a park before it gets too cold!

 

Love,

 

Sis

Letter to Grandparents (October 26)

Hello Grandma and Grandpa!

What a fine day it is, to read your wonderful letters.

Well, the temperature is still bearable here.  I did get my coat shrunk.  I'm pleased with it.  But, I haven't worn it yet.  And yes, we found hats and gloves.  I don't know what I was thinking, but I found some cute green leather gloves.  Can leather even be green?  Well, they are warm and they will last the winter.  But, I look like a ninja turtle when I wear them!  So, I will have some turtle power.  It's funny how many people here know about American culture.  I taught my English class about Halloween.  And we discussed costumes.  I told them a few of my costumes and then asked what they would wear on Halloween.  Here are a few of their responses:  Superman, Batman, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle, Spiderman, X-men, Freddy Cruger (this one took me a while to understand, then I realized it was another American character) and many more.  I begged them for at least one Ukrainian idea, and in the end I had to suggest something.

OH...HOW AWFUL.  They are doing construction in our Internet café, installing new windows, I think, and this drill is deafening.  I'm glad I'm writing and not speaking.

So, yes.  Everything is in order for winter.  Ukrainians are wonderful.  They never think I'm dressed warm enough.  It hasn't been very cold.  It's still fall.  So, I'm not wearing a big coat.  But, I'm warm.  I layer.  But, they fuss and fuss and say that I'm freezing.  They just won't believe me, no matter what I say.  I've heard rumors from the elders:  it could be 60 degrees outside, but it's winter and the grandmas on the street will yell at you for not wearing a hat or a scarf or something if you are not dressed for winter.

Well, I have two beautiful branches I work with here.  It almost broke my heart yesterday.  Our first branch is called Ross after the river here.  The president's wife was pregnant-already 9 months and expecting to deliver any day.  Then this week they learned that she miscarried.  He didn't want anyone to know.  So, she is in the cello with her mother and he came to church to preside.  There were only 4 Priesthood holders in the meeting. One conducted.  2 blessed the sacrament and the President passed.  I was really touched.  Every man present was a priesthood holder, and every priesthood holder present had an important part in the church service.  They are great men.  And there are also wonderful women in this branch.  We went to Sunday school with them where the topic was missionary work.  They talked about preparing and bout being member missionaries.  They asked us for advice.  They want to do everything they can to help us!

It is so amazing to see such small branches with so much dedication and testimony.

They are learning the hymns.  I enjoy helping them with that.

We had an American Pancake night on Saturday and had 20 non-members come.  It was fun!  The Elders made pancakes.  They were quite tasty.  We had syrup too.  We watched Legacy in Russian, had a spiritual message, and Elder Nuttal sang "This is The Christ" (in Russian).

However, this was a tough week for me.

Why?  Because I know that The Church of Jesus Christ is true.  I know there are many wonderful churches.  I love all churches that preach Christ and help others have faith and improve their lives.  Awesome!

But, how amazing is it that there has been a restoration.  There is priesthood, and through that priesthood we can receive the ordinances of the gospel with authority from God.  Baptism not just in the name of Christ but also with the power of Christ.  Baptism by fire; receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost that comes only through the laying on of hands by those who have the authority - the authorization from Christ to administer.

The restoration of the gospel clarifies confusion.  Takes away doubt about the nature of God and life after death, and so much more!

But, this week we meet with families and women who we wanted to share this wonderful message with and they couldn't accept it.  That was hard.

 

I know that I am nothing.  I would be empty if it wasn't for the gospel that fills me up with hope and peace.  I tried to think about why someone would not actually be interested in this.

Then, why wouldn't someone at least try to understand?  Is it a waste of time?  It's either true or it isn't.  So, why not figure it out.

 

I love to learn.  I love understanding things and people, and there is so much that I don't know.  But, I want to know.  Where is the desire?  What are people afraid of?  It's either true or it isn't.  If it isn't and they learn that then they can continue on with their lives.  Maybe understanding of the history of a church will grow, what's lost?  Did any inventor regret the 100 attempts to find the one way to their invention?

 

But, if it is true, and it is the one way...AWESOME!   I don't know why there is only one way.  But, Christ atoned for my sins; he made everything possible.  As Elder Oaks said, “I'm not going to argue it out with Him.

Wow...that was a long rant.

 

I'm sorry.  I just don't know why people aren't curious.  Why they don't want to learn for themselves? What a blessing the gospel could be to their lives!

So, I am trying to learn how to be a better missionary- how to serve better, how to communicate better, how to love better, how to follow Christ better. Aren't we all missionaries?

Okay, I hope you are healthy.  Don't get the swine flu.  Wash your hands!

Send my love to everyone!  I received an e-mail from Sister Postelwait!  Really nice!

I hope you have a fun week!  You are the best!

And don't lie.  You are and better keep Sandra and Will in line!  Good luck with genealogy.  We are also trying to figure out how to use that here, but we only have one computer at church.

I love you.

Everything is well here.  We have fabulous members working with us.  We are going to work hard.  And we are going to find those who want to know- who have that desire in their hearts.

Love,

Sister Murphy!

Letter to the Thompsons: Oct 19

Hello Grandma and Grandpa,

You are so wonderful!  Thanks for your examples of service and kindness and generosity!  I love you!  I look forward to your e-mails just as much as you do!

Yes, winter is coming.  But, the Lord has promised us to not worry about the food you should eat or the clothes that you wear.  Therefore I will trust in the Lord and be warm!

I don't think we've had frost and certainly not snow.  But, I know I will have to learn to love freezing!  Today I will pick up my coat.  I wanted it to be smaller, so I wouldn't look like a walking balloon.  It should be warm!  I'm excited.  We are also going to buy boots, a hat, and gloves today.  Then I think my companion and I will be ready for winter!  Yay for being warm!

Congratulations to Buddy!  How exciting for their whole family!  That's an amazing family.  Say goodbye to the Foxes and wish them the best!  What kind of mission are they serving again?

Well, thank you for keeping up with Gary and Betty.  They are practically family right!

Whoa...that's one expensive package.  Don't go crazy.  I'm doing great here!  I might just need to tell Sandra to make sure I have money on my debit card, so I can buy boots and other things.  I don't know how expensive they will be.  Elizabeth Edwards is a beautiful lady!  Make sure you tell her I love her!

I am doing absolutely great.  I love my new area.  I love my new companion.  She is teaching me a lot about enjoying life!   We are learning together how to be better teachers and effective missionaries.

The branches here are small. Which means we have a lot of work to do and many miracles.  Friday night we talked with a girl after English.  We have many amazing people we find through English.  The majority of the converts here are found through English.  She is a university student and lives in Kyiv.  But, she loves to hang out with us on the weekends.  We sang hymns after English and started with Joseph Smith’s First Prayer.  In between hymns we shared the restoration!  She doesn't like religion.  She doesn't understand.  She is confused.  So, it wasn't easy.  Friday she really didn't want to know more.  But, she loves the peace she feels with us.  She promised to come to an activity on Saturday.  However, she was too busy.  Fortunately, all day Sunday we have activities!  I copied a few poems for her and we called to invite her to church.  She came!  It was great.  During this time, she had talked to her step-mother about the church.  Her step-mom wants to read the book of Mormon.  On Sunday, Galina (our recent convert) received the gift of the Holy Ghost.  This really confused Yana (our wonderful English student).  She had a lot of questions and wants to learn more about it.  I'm excited to have the opportunity to explain to her about the marvelous news of the Gospel.  How God loves her and doesn't want her to be confused, and that His plan is simple.

Many more miracles!  Another one of God's children was brought to church by her sister-in-law.  She is elect!  We are excited to meet with her further this week and lead her to Christ and help her increase her faith in Him and His atonement! Her name is Maria or Masha for short.

We also are working with two families that just happen to live in the same apartment!  We consider that to be another miracle!  Well, I love you.

I am incredibly happy!  I am serving the Lord and I am so thankful for this opportunity!  I love you.  I am thankful for you!  You have done so much for me!

I hope you are smiling every day!  I hope you are happy!

Keep praying for miracles here!  Thanks for your thoughts!

We have some high goals and will have to be worthy of many miracles to achieve them!  But, I have faith.  I trust in the Lord and I want to do everything I can to help these people here understand that the restoration did happen, that there is a prophet on the Earth, that Christ is our Savior and He loves us, that God is our Heavenly Father and He wants to help us.

This morning I studied about our purpose in life.

How do we know if we are successful in this life?  We return to the presence of God.  So, what do we need to be successful?  We need to do the things that will allow us to return to God's presence.  That means we need to have faith.  We need to repent.  We need to get baptized and receive all other ordinances we can to help us.  We need to endure to the end.  So: We need to be obedient.

Well, that's all the time I have.

In the midst of our many errands we have invited some investigators to take the missionaries ice-skating!  Could be fun or embarrassing!

But...

You are the best

Love,

 

Sister Murphy

Letter to the Taylors: Oct 19

 

 Hello Sandra & Will,

You two are awesome!  I'm super thankful for you.

I am doing great!!  Well, I'm doing my best...trying to stay positive and enjoy everything including the awful moments.  And, I'm happy so I must be succeeding!

So, this is my probably 15th week here!  I love it.  It's beautiful.  The food is great.  The people are unique and sincere, and the church is growing!

Everything is rolling in Bila Tserkva!  Sister Nakashawn and I are planning for an excellent week involving work, faith, and miracles!  It's exciting to have goals and a plan and then trust in the Lord that if we apply our faith in Him and work hard amazing things can happen.  I really enjoy serving with Sister Nakashawn.  The branches here love her, so it's a great opportunity for me to see how she has earned their respect and trust.  And this area has so much potential for growth. We have been blessed to find some amazing people this transfer!

Therefore this week we will strive to be worthy to help these amazing people understand the wonderful miracle of the restoration of the gospel.

I love missionary work!

It's really strange; your messages always coincide with something I studied.  For example, I studied this weekend Alma chapter 7 (that's where I am in my Ukrainian Book of Mormon) I think it's about verse 11, 12, or 13 where it starts talking about the Atonement.  It's Alma on his 2nd transfer ( or 2nd area) of his mission (Like me)! and he talks beautiful of the need for an Atonement.  Well, in probably verse 15, 16, or 17 he says that even with our weaknesses that do easily beset us, I have many of those too; like food and just silly little habits that are not good for my spiritual development, we can overcome them through His divine help!  Awesome! I have been trying ever since then to tackle my weaknesses and let my spirit be strengthened, so my spiritual senses can grow to handle my physical nature.

Well, I just thought that was neat when I read your e-mail!!

So, thanks.  I am happy; I got a good computer with an incredibly awesome keyboard.  I can type like lightening, except the enter key is forever away!

Love you

Email to her Sister

Hello Sandra and Will,

How is life?  It sounds fantastic to be you right now!  Not that I would ever trade with anyone.  But, I'm glad your lives are the way they are.  You are trying to be obedient and you have the gospel!

I'm excited for what ever is next in your life.  I know that the Lord will provide for you - the next exciting opportunity.  Just look for it!

Oh, Glen!!  The crazy guy!  Good for him and I'm glad you had fun and served and were wonderful again!

I wish I could have seen your wedding.  Tell me about it.  What advice did you receive?   Sho she?  What kind of doctrine did you learn at this wedding, not that I need to know, but did you write it down so I can learn it later when I need it?

I really liked your e-mail, especially the FHE Part.  Thanks for sharing with me!  I wrote it down.  I'm going to apply it this week!

This morning during study I was amazed by the broadness of the gospel and yet, how simple the gospel is.  My first zone conference we talked about doing what matters, and ever since then we've been adding to it.

I found an awesome talk in an old ensign:  It's by Brad Wilcox called Getting Over feeling underappreciated.  It’s pretty awesome.   Look it up.  I only had two pages, the others must have had some pretty pictures on it.  It really helped me to learn to love more and be excited about being a missionary and more about being a member of the church.  Of course I am, but I don't always show it!  So, repent and change!  I also read an awesome talk this morning by Elder Bednar about discernment.  I'm going to work on loving people and seeing them as Christ would and discerning their goodness and even my  own goodness!  Isn't it crazy that both of us learned a little bit about love this week!

I finally realized that it's not just about doing what's good but what is important.

This week we were busy; we had a lot of good lessons and good plans.  But, in our efforts to plan, I felt that we were not quite as focused on baptisms, as we should have been. 

I learned that what I need to be focusing on in my own self is greater love and patience to wait on the Spirit in order to discern more the needs of the people I meet and how to help them want the gospel.

It's funny the circle of gospel understanding.  Everything is always connected back to a lesson learned previously.

So, Now I think I can connect the lessons learned about doing what matters, finding, and planning and align them with our goals of baptizing! 

Well, where is your Ukrainian friend from?  Who does he know that lives here in Bila Tserkva?

There is a girl coming out there who isn't a member of the church.  Crazy huh?  She met missionaries through English classes and I guess decided to study at BYU-I.

I can always use advice for teaching, finding, being better, learning, knowledge, etc.  What do you have? What does your husband have?  What do others have?

Thanks for your advice.  But sometimes I take things to seriously.  I am having more fun with my new companion though!  Well, we did have one struggle because we didn't understand each other and she handles things differently.  I got a little offended, so after we talked about it, we prayed and figured out what to do!

I am trying to love.  I love that I know that we are all God's children.  He loves them all and I just need to look for their good!

The language is tough.  But, I'm going to improve, I'm not afraid to just through words out.  I know I cannot get better if I don't try.  So, I'm trying and people are trying to understand me!  What was Will's experience like?  Does he have any language advice?

I love you both.  It's time to prepare for winter and prepare for the week.

You are the best.  I wish I could call you on Sundays after church like we used to do but for now it will be a weekly e-mail!

Have the best week

Love,

Sister Murphy

Email to her Grandparents

Hello Grandpa & Grandma!  

 

I have so much I want to say to you!

Thanks for your e-mail; it made me smile!  I'm so happy that you are enjoying life!  I know you are because you two are just so enjoyable!

I'm am super glad you received my package!  How was everything?  Chiggers STILL?  It's October?  That's crazy!

What an awesome temple trip!  Congratulations.  Sounds like it was an adventure!

Well, it's been another week.  Crazy how they fly by!  I know you are busy and I hope you always have something to do!  How are the crossword puzzles grandpa?  One day I want to finish ONE!  Grandma how are your pears?  Did you make any salsa this year?  So, almost a year left.  Wow, they go fast.

Well, now for my answers!

I do like my new area.  It is a small area - we have two branches that are very young (almost 10 years).  So, the church has only been here for 10 years.  There are a 140 members and still about 50% activity.  That means there are about 35 people in each branch.  We had a baptism Saturday!  I'll send some pictures to Sandra so she can put them up.  The people here are very simple.  Most of them have their own gardens with tomatoes and cabbages.  They are friendlier here and easier to approach - (as long as I'm smiling and happy)

Fruit trees are everywhere.  It's great, except that the trees are all going to sleep!

Today is a great day.  It’s about 50 degrees.  I'm going to alter my coat and look for boots to prepare for winter!

We are about an hour from the temple, my first area and the mission office (all the same place).  Everything has changed.  I was super spoiled in my first area.   We had a family ward next to the temple and the mission office (which has all of the supplies we could need including our letters and packages!).  We also had a beautiful remodeled apartment!

But, I wouldn't change anything about my new area.    Well, I would change our toilet seat, but that's minuscule don't you think?

 

I do have the best mission!  I love it!

This week I am going to try to love more.  Listen more and follow the example of Christ.

We watched conference this weekend!  It was great!  Saturday we didn't have translator sets so we watched it in Ukrainian with our ward.  Although I didn't understand everything, I knew and felt again that these men whose words were being translated into other languages were Prophets and Apostles of God!  I know their messages are important for the entire earth.  I felt proud to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  And proud that we are the only true church on the Earth today because we have the fullness of the gospel, which includes the Priesthood that enables us to have a Prophet of God.

Incredible!

My new companion is Armenian.  I love that I have been able to serve with such diversity.  She is beautiful!   I'm also thankful for the extra opportunity to understand a 3rd language.  (I'm not trying to speak Russian though; I still have to learn Ukrainian!  She speaks 50% in English.  I'm also trying to help her speak more English!)

I really feel that understanding my companion who speaks in a language that is (pardon the pun) "foreign to me" has been a blessing from the Lord. She is a joy to serve with, because she is happy!

So, we have some high goals and a great area to serve in.  Our members want to help us and we want to do our best to help them and build this area and improve the lives of those who live here.  We are finding.

We have English classes here and there are some amazing people we've found through them.  It's something I've never had the privilege to experience, because I've been a member of the church my whole life (thanks to you!).  But, they come to our class and say they love being here!  One girl I talked with on Friday - Yana - said that she wanted to stay!  So she did.  She stayed until 8:30 until after we finished cleaning the baptismal font, swept the floors and stacked the chairs.

Oh, so Galina got baptized on Saturday in between conference sessions!  It was a fantastic day.  Of course she was nervous.  But, she said she knew that the church was true and she was excited to get baptized.  She is in her late 40s and is a beautiful elegant lady.  I think she was a model for a few years.  She has a son we are going to meet with tonight and introduce him to the elders.  He came to her baptism and part of conference and said it was peaceful!

I love you both!  I'm excited for your lives and the people around you!  Send them all my love if you think of it!  Tell Jacob good luck.

Tell Joyce and Kevin to behave and have a happy week!  They are awesome!

How is Jina doing?  What is she doing?

I love you all!

Have a great week!

Sister Murphy

Hello Family!

Hello again on this beautiful Monday morning.

Happy Birthday again Grandma!   You probably know now that the "parcel" is from me!  YAY!!  Well, I hope it is and that you received the "parcel" I sent.

So, here we drink a lot of tea, and you might as well get started because when I get home that is something I probably will crave!  I'm sure there are some nice fruit/herb teas there.  I was always cautious to drink tea because I never knew which one was harmful to our bodies, but I've heard now that it is just red and black tea or maybe it's black and green.  Hmm…The colors red and black in Ukrainian sound just a like so, I'm always confused.  

Anyways, there is this weird food I sent home that is actually very tasty.  We enjoyed it one night with a cup of blueberry tea—hot chocolate might be just as good!

Another temple in Italy!  That's awesome!    Arkansas will come.  We have to build up Zion first.  We need to activate and prepare for the temple and then baptize!!

Tell the Williamsons hi and I hope you enjoy their company tonight.  

I think we had one day in the forties; it's getting cold.  It's almost Winter.  I was given a coat by one of the senior missionary couples who left at the end of August.  However, it's just a little too big.  So we are going to find someone who can hem it up just a little bit for me.  I think it will be difficult, but I don't really want to buy a coat, so maybe I'll just layer up and deal with it.

My suspicions were right!  I am now in Bila Tserkva.  I live in a little house.  It’s cute. Well, it's home.  Our land lord invited us to try her tomatoes and apples!  I'm excited about that.  The heat will be turned on this week!  I'm also very excited about that!  We've been using our gas stove and turning it on in the morning.  Fun times!  My companion is Armenian, which means she is very beautiful! . She is very nice. She speaks Armenian and I guess they learn Russian sometime in school or something.  She understands probably a majority of Ukrainian because, well, she's serving in Ukraine.  She also understands English, I think.  But, she speaks to me in Russian, so I'm learning to understand Russian. Hooray for opportunities.

It will be a challenge to communicate.  We have some high goals, but we want to be obedient and have the dedication to work.  I'm excited about this transfer.  IT STARTED THIS MORNING!  So, here we go.  I have an extremely happy companion.  VERY POSITIVE and that is what we are--very positive that we are going to find people to teach!  Pour your hearts out in prayer for us this week.  I love you!

Bila Tserkva is south of Kiev.  I don't know how to describe it.  It's smaller for sure.  We work with two small branches.  Many of the priesthood holders have been in jail. (I think they were in the Russian mob or something).  We also have 2 companionships of elders (2 elders in each branch = 4).  It's going to be a great transfer.  They are fun elders!  Today I think we are going to go bowling!  We'll see if we have time.

I know there are so many people here who need the gospel.  I want to share it with them.  I want them to find the true and simple path to our Savior.

We have a baptism on Saturday!  She is a beautiful lady!  Her name is Halina.  She is super excited about the gospel.  We are also working with another couple.  They come from a very humble background - it's been easy for them to accept the gospel, just difficult for them to understand.

It was hard to leave Borshahivsky.  It's a beautiful family ward, we had a beautiful apartment, and we walked by the temple every other day.  We had amazing people we were teaching...

Marina is having difficulties.  Her husband doesn't trust her.  Her son was sick and she had to miss church and other things.  We asked her if she would like him to receive a blessing.  On Monday we brought the Elders and had a nice visit until she received a text message from her husband.  He left a web camera so he could hear what would happen.  Well, we still believe in miracles.  So, we are praying to continue meeting with her and that her husband will also open his heart.  We met her on a Marshutka (bus).

Valentina is a super woman.  Her baptism is scheduled in 2 weeks.  She came with us to a very fun Ukrainian wedding reception!  She comes to church every Sunday.  We met her on the street!

We also taught English to two other wonderful ladies, Vika and Lana, but they wanted to learn more about the gospel right a way.  Lana is darling.  She is going to do a Ukrainian TV show about dieting.  Her husband left her because she wasn't as skinny as most tiny Ukrainians.  She is beautiful.

I hope they will both continue in the gospel and that I will see them again soon maybe at their baptisms!

We have a lot of work to do!

I never got to tell you about the crazy wedding we had.  Or other amazing stories...

Here is one.  We were on the way home from an appointment and there was this beautiful older woman who got on the bus.  She had two huge baskets.  She was coming from the cello (village where people have gardens and small homes).  She had baskets of fruit and flowers.  I told her how beautiful they were.  She held them up so I could smell them.  Lovely!  She didn't know what kind of flowers they were.  I told her they were marigolds in English, but they were HUGE!  My companion asked her about her family.  She is taking care of her parents—they are really old.  I gave her a calendar with the picture of Ukrainians beautiful temple.

Then, she dug in her basket and pulled out two of the biggest pears I have ever seen and said HERE!  She was the nicest lady I've ever met on a bus!

I absolutely love being a missionary.  It's such an amazing opportunity to build up Zion.  I am thankful that I don't have to do it alone.  Zone Conference was amazing.  I learned so much about missionary work and how to be an effective missionary.  This week Sister Nakashawn and I set some high goals and we are going to try to work to "punish our feet for supporting us" and incorporate what we can into our service this week.

I am thankful for every opportunity I have and I hope to grow and learn and always find ways to improve.  I'm excited to be in Bila Tserkva.  Yesterday, I saw two wonderful branches that can grow.  Today I saw many people who probably have no idea how much their Father in Heaven loves them.

I'm excited to find!  Even now, I'd much rather go out and see who wants to come to our baptism on Saturday than write e-mails.  I hope you have a great day!

One other thing: I don't want to be so boring.  What can I do to be more excited; besides learning the language...I'm still working on that.   I want to be happy (well I am happy) but I want to make others happy and when people are wrong, I want them to know I love them and that they change.

I love you! 

I hope you have a wonderful week.  Thanks for everything!  You two are the best!  Enjoy your yummy meals and your cute puppies!

Well, that is Chac. 

Love,

Sister Murphy

Getting ready for her first transfer in Ukraine!

Grandma and Grandpa,

Here are my questions and my answers to you!!  :) 

It is warm today.  I will have to buy a coat and some gloves soon though, Somedays the weather cools down.  But, I've been doing great!  I haven't been transfered yet.  You'll know about that.  (b/c...soon!)

I'll explain how it works if Sandra and Will haven't.  Each missionary is assigned an area and a companion for 6 weeks (everywhere in the world). So your guaranteed to see the same missionary in your town for 6 weeks.  5 weeks ago we got a call saying we were staying together in the same area even though we both had been there 6 weeks.  (They decided not to transfer us! YAY).  Normally, one missionary is transferred at a time so that someone is left with experience in the area, so someone knows who the members are and how to get to places.  They can also introduce him/her to the people they are working with and whatever useful information.  So, I've been in Kiev for almost 12 weeks (that means at the end of this week it's transfer time for our entire mission).  The mission is divided up into zones and from zones into districts and from districts into companionships.  At the beginning of each tranfer we set zone goals for the transfer, district goals to help us meet them and companion goals.  We have Zone conferences once every transfer.  My zone conference will be on Friday.  It is an inspiring event where President Steinegal and our missionary leadership teach us how we can be better and do the work better.  They introduce new principles to try in our work or tell us things we should change.  So far they are amazing!  We have district meetings once a week.
During each transfer (each 6 weeks) we have the opportunity to participate in exchanges.  Missionaries will switch companions for a few days to learn from other missionaries.  It's rare with sisters but our mission just went crazy with exchanges and I participated in 3!  So, I've served with half the sisters in the mission and half of the Ukrainian sister areas!  (My area is the best but I will leave soon.  But, I will work hard to make each area spectacular!)

I serve in the borshahivsky ward, right next to the temple site!  It's the best and it's beautiful! The mission office is also located in our chapel.  So, whatever we need we can get really easily! I have an amazing companion (who will soon train a new missionary again, and I will have to leave.)
Remember she is Ukrainian but has lived in Italy for the last 5 years.  She has taught me a lot about missionary work, having fun, cooking, and whatever else a senior companion is supposed to teach you.
I served one week in L'viv (remember my second week here)-- another paradise in the mission.  I hope one day I will go back!  They have two fabulous branches!

I went on an exchange to western Kyiv in (I think this is right) Harkivsky.  I was only there for 3 days, so I didn't get to meet many members.  If I serve there soon, I'm going to have to do some major deep cleaning on our first preparation day.

Then, 2 weeks ago I was on an exchange in Bila Tserkva, remember I had an Armenian companion who spoke
Armeanian, Russian, and about 50% English (Sister Nakashyawn).  It's a beautiful area.  We lived in the middle of our neighbor's (who is also our landlord) garden.  She also has an enormous apple tree!
(How do you make apple pie?)
I was there for 4-5 days and gave out 2 baptismal dates and met a few of the members.  I wasn't there for church though.

That's the story of what's been going on.  Does it make sense?

Now, in comments to your e-mail.  Introduce yourself to the elder.  PLEASE...for my sake.  You have no idea what it's like to be in a new area, having so much you need to know and so much you need to do, and know idea how to do it.  Give him some of your expert advice, tell him you want to support him.

So, in regards to a Christmas package, I hope you don't go crazy - I'll have to carry it all the way back to my apartment!

No, we don't get a lot of invites from members.  Things are just a little bit different out here.  People are poor (the exchange rate is 9:1 in our favor).  But, they are very hospitable.  We never know if we will be fed when we have an appointment.
I've been eating well.  I made us omletes yesterday for breakfast!

 Why did they close the temple in Germany?

Well, I'm sitting at a computer with a horrible space bar.  I have to really punch it down in between every word.  AWFUL...it's really trying my patience!

We will watch conference I suppose at the end of October.  It's kind of sad that I have to wait a few more weeks, but it will be amazing none the less!
The only broadcasts we attend are general conference and even for stake conferences only the Sunday sessions.   Missionary Work is very important, and I'm learning what a horrible member missionary I was before my mission.  Every day I repent and promise that I will take what I've learned and do my part as a member of the Church who has been blessed with a testimony of the Gospel and knowledge about the restoration of the fulness!

I cannot wait to hear about new temples too!  And everything inspiring that comes through the mouths of living Prophets and apostles!

So, guess what: I am getting transfered this week!  I leave on Thursday for my new area!  I am about 90% positive that I'm 80% on where I will go.  The office elders serve in my ward and they gave me two hints  (I swear I didn't ask for them and they weren't trying to tell me either):

First Elder Rayburn said in remark to something Russian I said to him that I should get used to it as I'll soon be speaking "Sergic" (the name for the Ukrainian + Russian "PIGEON" - (blending of two or more languages like Spanish and French = Creole in Louisiana)  In other words Ukrainian + Russian = Sergic, expect they don't have new words.  They just speak One sentence in Ukrainian and one in Russian and if they forget a word in Ukrainian they will say the word in Russian.  Did I tell you that every single Ukrainian speaks Russian and Ukrainian?  So, I'm trying to learn Ukrainian but Russian is thrust upon me.  I'm excited.  What other mission in the world do you have the opportunity to learn two languages?   Not that it doesn't happen here:  Sacrament Yesterday - Elder Miller spoke Russian, I spoke Ukrainian, the children sang in Ukrainian, the next man spoke in Ukrainian, the closing speaker spoke in Russian, the opening Prayer: Ukrainian & Closing Prayer: Russian.  Sometimes the Sacrament Prayers are even divided!  Interesting, huh!

Second they said I would have to play piano in this ward...
It was my last Sunday along with Elder Miller, so we both spoke for a few minutes in sacrament meeting.  After my testimony the primary sang "I love to see the Temple" (in Ukrainian obviously) and I thought it was absolutley lovely.  I was surprised by the number of children our ward has.  Elder Miller said, "There are a lot of children where you are going too, and you'll have to play the piano."
Oh, Elder Miller is just jealous.  Bila Tserkva was his most beloved area.  He wants to return.  But, with 3 months left I think he'll serve wherever he is being transfered to until the end of his mission.  So, yes.  I am 80% sure I'm going to Bila Tserkva.

Hooray for new and exciting things!  That means I'll be living in the middle of a Ukrainian garden!!  I had a great exchange there a couple of weeks ago.  I'll let you know for sure next Monday.

It is sad to leave here. We have two wonderful women preparing for baptism in October, and of course people I will miss serving.  I love this ward & it's members.  Okay, well I have a lot to do to get ready for transfers, like pack and clean, and learn a langauge (Ukrainian)  I still have miles to go!

Well, I love you.

Thanks for everything!

I am so excited for your birthdays!  I love you both! 

You two are angels!

Love,

Sister Murphy!

Letter to her Grandparents

So, HAPPY ANNIVERSARY GRANDMA AND GRANDPA!!
How are you?  Did you kiss, hold hands?  Eat pie, cake, ice cream...everything?
Hello again!
Thanks for the update on your week.  Way to stay busy and active!  Oh, we don't eat fresh-water fish because they are caught in the Ukrainian water and there is bacteria that our American bodies are not used to.  So, we can eat fish and be sick for a couple of days, or we can just not eat fresh-water fish.  So, I eat salmon (something that is shipped from far away).

No, we don't have cars.  Every once in a while (maybe 3 times since I've been here) someone has given us a ride. We live in big cities...RIDICULOUSLY LARGE!  So, we crowd in already crowed marshrutkas like most every other Ukrainian.  We also take the metro or trolley buses.   A Marshrutka is pretty much like a public bus except here they are not public.  Every one has a route, so we have to know the main streets to know which "bus" to take.  Sometimes these "buses"  can be worse than a can of sardines.  I'm looking forward to more memories on the marshrutkas moving millions of people around the "Mictos" of Ukraine.  Oh, they are normally yellow!

Oh, this is interesting.  I met Elder Chapman at Zone Conference and then served with him and his district in Bila Tserkva last week.  He is from Springfield Mo. North Stake.  He is from Russia, but was adopted about 8 years ago. He has a very large family.  I don't remember exactly where he is from - somwhere close to Springfield.

Hmmm, so we had to move Marina's baptism.  Her son is sick, so she had to cancel all her plans (even work - which is also sad [poor]).  We still want her to come to church a few more times.

But, we invited another friend - Valentina to get baptised next month as well!  We are excited even if we are transfered!

So, Moroni arrived!  He's beautiful!  They still have to put on they "exoskeleton" of granite around some parts of the temple.  But, it's looking good.

I thought of more things you can send for Christmas...
POPCORN!!  I LOVE POPCORN, and it's expensive and hard to find here.  You can even just send the kernells if that's easier and I'll pop it on the stove!  Hmm, maybe mints...but not gum.

What do you think about pickled tomatoes?  I think you should try it.

And my mouth is watering from hearing about your pears.  I know those are good!

Well, I love you.  I hope you have a fantastic day and week.

How can you help the missionaries at home?  Ask them?  If you can't think of people to hear the lessons maybe you can meet the people they are teaching!

You are the great!

Love you,

Sister Murphy!