Exchanges, Meetings, Memorial Day, and other general craziness‏

Hello hello!! :)

So this week flew by so quick.

Last Tuesday, had an exchange with Elder Thalman in Farmington. Twas wonderful seeing how to better help those in my area to improve and come closer to Christ. After that, went straight into an exchange with Elder Erikson in Red Mesa. It's interesting to see just how much of a difference in culture can exist in communities less than an hour away. Even with those differences though, we are all children of God, with the same basic needs, wants, problems, and weaknesses. What's incredible to see is just how universal the Gospel and Atonement of Jesus Christ are in meeting life's challenges and transforming them into areas of growth and progression :)

Saturday, Andrew got interviewed for baptism (passed with flying colors, of course :))-- He has come such a long way in his life to reach this point, and we couldn't be more excited for him!! 

We've been in the process of developing a plan with our Ward Mission Leader, to supplement efforts of the ward council to reach out and rescue those who may have fallen away. We'll be helping the members to take responsibility for the social conversion of those we've been teaching, and it seems like it's just going to be wonderful :)

Also had the opportunity to test run the new pamphlets this week and present them at a meeting in Farmington yesterday. My favorite one is entitled Families and Temples. This is essentially the "Why" of the Gospel. God loves you. You are literally His child, and were a part of His family before you came to Earth. He's provided a way to be happy in this life, to have the most joy in our own families, and a way to bind your family together forever. That way is the Gospel of Jesus Christ, found in His church. There is no better way to have lasting joy or peace. That's our message. Simple. Wonderful. True. And the greatest part is, this isn't something we expect anyone to accept on the merits of our word alone. You can know for yourself. 

Out of time today, but I love you all! Please email or write if you have any questions!!

Elder Kraus

P.O. Box 4252

Durango, CO 81302