Week 12: Adventures of Elder Fatty

Hello everyone!

12 weeks... Holy smokes! My mom would say different, but the last 3 months have flown by and I'm so glad. We really miss him here at home but I can tell he is in good hands, and is having so many awesome adventures and experiences. He apologizes that he can't write everyone back individually, as he only has an hour to write emails. I will reiterate that hand written letters are much appreciated and he can reply much easier to those.

Well my friends, the Gospel of Jesus Christ is so important to Zach (as it should be to all of us). Think about it, it is the only true church, and we are lucky enough to be a part of it! Elder Van Pelt asks that we all deepen our understanding of the gospel so that we can be ready to teach it when we are in a situation to do so. Study it so that you can be a representative of Christ and his church. He said in his letter that if we want to better our lives, relationships, homes, anything, it will be through the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is our plan, our path and our way back home to our Heavenly Father.

Zach has realized the importance of putting others needs before his own and has truly done this out in Chile. He has seen not only a change in himself but a change in his companion and others around him. He has found the spirit telling him what to say and sometimes actually speaking to him. He has had the gift of tongues among so many other blessings. A great example of putting yourself in front of others is our parents and Zach pointed that out about our parents. He encourages everyone to forget yourself and serve others. Love god and watch how the Lord will bless you. Love is strong. Strong enough to change a young 18 year old boy.

Zach finally got a baptism scheduled this week. He is having a great time helping others come unto Christ, and surprise, its an older woman! A Chilean grandma who doesn't scowl, yell, or wave her finger at Zach. I never thought I would see the day!  She is at least 75 years old and was taught by them about the gospel and accepted baptism that same day. Before she can get baptized she needs to go to church a few times, but she was truly blessed with the spirit testifying to her of the truth of the gospel.

Elder Van Pelt is getting fed VERY well. So well, in fact, that he is gaining weight (which if you know Zach, has been nearly impossible in the past). There was nothing but empanadas and fiestas this week for the holiday in Chile. He said his "six pack" is leaving, and I imagine he is beginning to see a "fun pack" replacing it. With all the fiestas came a ton of drunk people, so he had some funny stories about that (which he chose to withhold from us, which I am a little sad about). One other thing that Zach has been doing lately is drawing. Atta boy! Taking after his art fart family. He has found a hobby that he loves, so that is a great way to fill his extra time.

Elder Van Pelt is getting a new companion this week, who he hopes to finish his training with. His name is Elder Pistorus, so we will hear about that a little more in the future.

Hasta Luego!