Letter #27 (May 18, 2009)

I was able to go to the temple this week. It was a great experience as always. I was able to interview Anna for her baptism. I contacted her months ago miraculously when Elder Condie and I saw her in the side of the road by her car. We taught her a bit and then we gave her to the other elders since she lives in their area. I interviewed her in Spanish, but I asked the questions in English. It was a great experience. It reminded me of my conversion process. I was contacted by Elder Haws and Elder Whidden. They taught me the first lesson. They handed me over to the singles ward elders. Elder Haws interviewed me for my baptism. Anna was actually too sick to get baptized, so she's getting baptized on another date.

Iantha is close to getting baptized. We've been teaching her for 3 and a 1/2 months.She's 81 years-old and very sharp. I have the best lessons with her. She knows what we teach her is true. She's just afraid that she's going to find something out about the church that is going to be a "deal-breaker" or something that she won't like. She asked me what would happen if she did get baptized and then found out something she disagreed with. I told her that I'll get on my knees and pray to our Father in Heaven and ask him for understanding. I may get an answer next week in church or as I'm reading the scriptures. Iantha might get baptized on May 23rd. I'm praying for her to receive comfort from our Father in Heaven.

We set a date with Walter Morrow for June 6th. He has to give up smoking. He said that he isn't smoking as much as when we taught him the Word of Wisdom. He came to church for the 4th time on Sunday. He's 65 years old. He use to sing in a local band back in the days. He once told us about him growing up in the civil rights movement in NC. He has a lot of stories. He always comes to church looking smooth, dressed to impress. He's cool. I love him.

All is well, down here in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. I love this work.
Love, Elder Olaya