History in the books :)

August 17, 2015

Akrofuom Branch

This we was a very successful week:) We held the first baptism ever in Akrofuom! The branch is less then two years old and the building is even newer and they couldn't figure out how to use the font since it was built! There is a lever that is deep in the ground that nobody could reach to stop the water from draining, kind of like a sprinkler system looking knob. Everyone has pretty short arms so I thought ok I'll give it a try and I reached in and boom I was able to reach the knob lol ! So we had the first ever baptismal service in the Akrofuom Branch it was so wonderful, man the spirit was strong as bro Charles and I approached the baptismal font with the whole branch crowded around. It was a moment I'll remember forever. 

Charles is the boy who reminds me of a young Joseph Smith. He is such a sweet kid and his desire to learn about life and his salvation blows my mind. Reminds me a little of myself, lol.

We also had the All African Service Project that is done through Helping Hands all around the world. In Akrofuom we worked on the roads in the villages using pick axes, shovels, and cutlasses or machetes as we know them. 

Probably one of the hardest times I've ever worked. They loved me for it though:) I intentionally worked my guts out so they wouldn't think I'm just some white missionary who isn't really in it to win it! No I got dirty, I got cuts and blisters. It was an amazing opportunity to laugh and learn about all my branch members. You see they have never even had an activity before so this was amazing. It was so fun. After we all chopped(Ate) a big bowl of cassava, plantain, yam and some stew stuff. Probably the best meal I've ever had, also probably because I was dying haha. Everything they eat is pure carbs and protein so they can work hard and recover fast. 

Its interesting because I was really enjoying getting my hands dirty and working with man power, but many members would say to me 'no machines in Ghana only man power' I thought they were proud by this statement, but they were not. They said it's not good and explained how people work like this everyday. It was just interesting seeing their perspective on how they work and live. Different then I thought.

I read the the scriptures in Jacob 2;17-20  the morning before and man I was just thinking how I want to earn riches so I can come back and give so my brothers can be rich with me. That's all I want in life. I love giving to those who don't have. I pray I will be able to achieve this dream one day. 

Enjoy your week family and friends. I love you all, I love this work, and I love the Lord:)

(Because it was the first baptism we took pictures with all the different auxiliary groups.) 

Charles baptism day!

The tall man to the left is the Branch President (reminds me of Brother Hansen) He's such a great guy. The other man is one of his counselors. And of course Charles.

YM/YW

Charles...the first to be baptised!

Primary

Relief Society

Priesthood