Photo Update - 17 April 2019

Michael added pictures of himself and his companion, Elder Archibald to his shared picture folder with us. I thought I would share these pictures of a handsome missionary. We are so proud of him!

Michael included this picture comparison for us. I think he is looking great!

Temple Visit - 2 April 2019

All of the missionaries were able to visit the California Newport Beach Temple this month. Temples have been around for a long time. Moses had a tabernacle, Solomon built a beautiful temple, and Jesus taught at the temple in Jerusalem. Today, temples are built all over the world. In over 140 temples worldwide, faithful members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints find opportunities for peaceful reflection and for learning more about God’s plan of happiness.

Similar to the Redlands California Temple, it uses interior and exterior architectural themes consistent with what was used in the Spanish missions of the early Western US and Mexico. The interior includes murals of the California coast. The temple is topped by a cupola holding the traditional statue of the angel Moroni. As with many contemporary LDS temples, the Newport Beach California Temple is built on the grounds of an existing stake center and shares parking with it. It is a very beautiful temple.

Here is a picture of Michael with all of the other missionaries serving in the Newport Beach Zone. There are at least six zones in the California Irvine Mission.

Weekly Email - 15 April 2019

Hi everyone,

This week was pretty good. We have been able to go finding a lot this week which has been cool even though most people aren't interested we are definitely giving the church a good rep as we politely invite all to hear a message about Christ. It's been good and we are having slow gradual success which is still incredible. This week Elder Archibald and I helped a family of 3 get baptized this past Saturday and it was incredible! The spirit was so strong. The father was even baptized then confirmed and then ordained after which he baptized his daughter which was a really spiritual experience. It was really cool and the families testimony grew at the baptism even more. And of course yesterday with the good old 7 to 8ish hours of church and church meetings! Woohoo! Anywho it's been a great week with lots of great experiences and lots of fun. Thanks for everything yall are the best!

Love Elder West

Baptism - 13 April 2019

Michael had the opportunity on Saturday, April 13th to be part of the Planchi family's baptism in the Newport Beach Zone. He baptized the husband and wife. It was so exciting that the father was ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood right away so he could baptize his daughter. What a great experience for this family and for Michael. He was so happy for them and happy that he could be a part of this amazing start to this families journey.