Response to Pres. Hutchings' Request

Dear Angela,

It is our faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ, our belief that he IS our Savior and Redeemer, that draws us to and keeps us active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-days Saints. Once we understand the love of our Savior for each of us, we feel the need the share His love with others, and that's why we send out missionaries, and that's why our family has sent you to Tennessee. Here's something I just got in an email today:

More Spiritual than Scientific

"Millions of people have become members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. But to each true believer there must ultimately and finally come a conviction that Joseph Smith was a revealer of truth, a prophet of God. Each must be convinced that God the Father and his Son Jesus Christ did appear to Joseph Smith and did commission him to reestablish the church of Christ upon the face of the earth."I have such a conviction, and it is my humble desire to share with you some of the things which verify my testimony of Joseph Smith and his work. My own witness is a spiritual one more than a scientific or historical one. I doubt that the gospel of Jesus Christ as restored to earth through the Prophet Joseph Smith and as taught by all the prophets who have succeeded him will ever be completely provable by the scientific method alone. It must be accepted by faith and understood by the gift and power of God."

James E. Faust,, "The Expanding Inheritance from Joseph Smith," Ensign, Nov. 1981, 76

It is so important for you and your companion to exercise your faith in all of your missionary activities. Fear and faith cannot coexist. When you feel fear to talk or teach, pray for additional faith. We pray for you every day that you'll have the ability to fulfill your calling, that you'll be able to speak through the Spirit, and that you'll be able to see and do the needful things to complete your assignment as a missionary. We are so proud of you and the work you have accomplished. We know you've had additional physical struggles and that you are working through them. We know the Lord blesses you every day. We send you our love and encouragement to keep working hard, to set challenging goals, and to dedicate this time to the work of the Lord.

We love you so much! Be strong in the Lord!

Emmanuel (with us is God),

Mom and Dad