Andrew Pennock

Hello Everyone! Yes running out of ideas for titles to mission emails but we had another great week with some more baptisms. This week we got to do exchanges with the APs again and it was fun to learn from Elder Bunagan. We had a good time and it was nice to ride around in a car for a little bit. It was pretty fun and I learned a lot about likening the scriptures to our teachings. My Comp was Elder Bunagan who is very knowledgeable when it comes to scriptures which is something I hope to continue to develop. But we had some good teachings and found some new people as well. 

 

Baptisms: Had 3 more Baptisms this week which was awesome. It's always great seeing more people make the first step on the Covenant path and knowing how much the gospel will help them in their lives ahead.

 

Spiritual Thought:

Running out of time to right my email so its going to be a short one but remember the Lord has a plan for you. When you understand that everything that happens for you in this life is to make you become better. It's not going to be easy, it never was meant to be easy, but you choose that when you came to this Earth. You followed God's plan and everyday have the opportunity to show your faith in him by trusting what's ahead for you. Keep going, and know it will all be worth it in the end. When it gets hard, remember your savior Jesus Chirst. He has you and will always know what you're going through. Keep showing your faith through the small and simple things! Love you all-

June 1, 2025

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Hello Everyone! Hope you all had a great week! This week went by super fast filled with activities of all sorts of missionary work. We had many successes filled with a rewarding Sunday. But to the highlights of the week-

 

Zone Conference:

This week we had zone conference. It was a good reminder all about why we are here as missionaries. Remembering the sacrifices we made, remembering the desires we had as we recieved our call, and remembering our purpose as a missionary. We also were able to have a zone council meeting. We discussed as a zone what we needed to improve and how to set effective goals and plans to achieve them. Overall, it went well and we are hoping to see an improvement over the next few weeks. 

 

Lead by example:

One thing that I have always thought of when it comes to leadership is leading by example. There is no better way than to walk the walk (meaning do what you say and just get it done). So as we had a zone council earlier this week we were able to talk about how to accomplish our Baptismal goals through effective planning. One thing we did this week was that. Planned efficiently and effectively to reach our goals. Which ultimately lead us to having a baptism, getting 12 new friends to church, and setting two more people on date for baptism next week. So as we relate this to life, sometimes the best way to lead is just by setting an example. Do what is right, be hard working, trust in the lord, and everything else will fall into play in the Lord's timing. Anyways hope you all had a great week! Thanks for all the emails and I'll do my best to get back to you all! Till next week-

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May 25, 2025

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Wow, what a week! We had transfers this week and I am staying here in Dumlog for another cycle. I got assigned with Elder Rees who is from Draper, Utah so I'll be training him to be a ZL. It was a crazy week filled with miracles and lots of insights.

 

MLC:

This week we had mission leadership council up in the city. We were able to start with a temple session which is always the best. I really felt the spirit there and it was such a great way to start the week. We also learned that there was an event going to happen the next day for BYU pathways. And we were told that Patrick Kearon would be coming along with other general authorities. So we were hopeful we might get to see him. Then the next day we began our council meeting. We learned a lot of really good things about accountability, trust, and the power of social conformity. But I will talk about that later in the spiritual thought. So after the morning session, we had to have our lunch in the room because the event was going on in the cultural hall. But I need to go to the bathroom so we slipped out for a little bit. While as we were walking back to the room, we all of a sudden realized Elder Kearon had just entered. Know we were about 15 feet away from him as we were walking back. He began to shake everyones hand. He had not yet noticed us but soon saw us elders. He came over immediately and had us introduce ourselves. He was very sincere and thanked us for our service. He said "Stay Happy". It was pretty awesome and we also got to meet the Presiding Bishop as well. So it was a pretty cool experience that day. 

 

Spiritual Thought: 

This week in our MLC, we talked about the concept of social conformity. A social concept referring to the power of influence of those around us. We discussed about how often times here in the mission those around us will follow what others do, meerly because that is just what they do. So for this, there can be two outcomes. Positive social conformity and negative conformity. But the power of it is if you have positive social conformity, the growth will be spontaneous. So as we relate this two our lifes. Our we the ones who influence others for good. Our we willing to make the hard right choice or choose the easy wrong. As we strive to do whats right, those around us will follow. As we continually stand for right, keep our covenants, be obedient, and do our personal best, I know that we will have many blessins poured out upon us. Well, thanks for getting this far in the email and I hope you all have a great week! 

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May 18, 2025

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Maayong adlawa sa tanan! Hope everyone had a great week! This week was pretty chill, found some new people, taught more, baptized, and will be having transfer calls this week. So we getting ready for a new companion because my comp finished the two years. Peace out  to the highlights of the week!

 

Baptism:

This week we had the baptism of Fatimath Pepito! It was awesome because she was so ready for Baptism. Her family has been taught by the missionaries for a long time and her parents still have concerns about marriage so we decided to proceed with the kids. So we were able to Baptize her and her brother will be Baptized next week. Her mom is very supportive and will hopefully getting married soon so we can continue with her as well. But overall, it was a great day for her!

 

Another American Joe:

This week we had a lunch appointment with the district. This time we ended up going to the interested friend of the other Elders area. Except this time is was an American interested friend. So it made things a little more interesting. He was very welcoming, and had everything prepared. He says he was a cook for 15 years back in the states so the food was pretty good. Well, a little background on this guy. We has been taught by the missionaries for almost a year know. He comes to church consistently, is welcoming, but does not believe we should worship Jesus Christ. So while we were over there, I began to talk to him and get to know him a little better. While it turns out that that conversation turned into 1 hour discussion from the Restoration to plan of salvation. It was a good conversation but he is still fixed on the idea that we should never worship Jesus Christ. But at the end, I felt impressed to ask him if he believes that he would ever be Baptized in the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. His response was "Maybe" so we'll take that for know. But overall, it was a pretty good appointment with a good discussion about the gospel of Jesus Christ. 

 

Spiritual Thought:

This week with my companion going home, it has made me think about all the different circumstances of people. We all come from different backgrounds, different families, different cultures, and different places. But the great thing about the Gospel of Jesus Christ is it is for everyone. Everyone who is open to hearing and accepting the good news will find joy. No matter where you come from the Gospel of Jesus Christ can be for you. And the ultimate blessing is those who are faithful in keeping the Covenants they make will all recieve the same reward. It is a truly amazing blessings because despite the challenges and unfairness of the world we all are able to obtain the same reward in the next life. I think that as I get to share the good news of this message with others here in the Philippines, it is a blessing to see the light on there faces as they learn about the plan of salvation. A new hope for them and there families eternal happiness. While I hope I can continue to share this with the many more people I come in contact with. 

Thanks for all your support! 

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May 11, 2025

Hello Everyone! Hope you all had a great week! Happy Mother's Day and special shout out to my mom! Thanks for your constant support, encouragement, and love. Hope you have a great day and thanks for your example to me. Continue to share your light with all and thanks for all of the things you do for our family! 

 

This week went by pretty fast as we worked on getting our friends ready for Baptism. We are really trying to get a few Baptisms before the end of the cycle ends but to the highlights of the week!

 

The day of finding:

So this week we did exchanges with our kabalay and we had a good time. We opened the exchanges with our expectations for the day and what we hoped to learn. One thing that my new comp said was to be time effecient. So thats what we did. We had appointments scheduled for the morning but for the most part, they were busy, not there, or about to leave. So we did the next best thing and did home to home contacting. And we were very time efficient, effective, and busy. We ended up finding 25 new people to teach, gave out all the BOMs we could carry, shared a message about Jesus Christ, and set return appointments with all of them. We were able to really jumpstart this particular area that had few interested friends. By the end of the day, as we were walking home, we felt satisfied and successful for the work we were able to do. Now we just gotta go back the second time and make sure they are really interested.

 

Spiritual Thought:

Enos 1:12

And it came to pass that after I had prayed and labored with all diligence, the Lord said unto me: I will grant unto thee according to thy desires, because of thy faith.

 

Often times in our life we seek instant gratification for things. We seek to have quick solutions, easy situations, and leisure living. But one thing we forget about is there is no growth in easy. There may be comfort, but that sometimes means we are not becoming. I like the perspective of Enos, because as he says, after he prayed and LABORED with all DILIGENCE, the lord granted his desire because of his faith. So as we seek the Lord for his help, we need to remember first we must do all we can. And as we do our personal best, the Lord will grant unto us his help for our desires because of our faith. So this week, I invite you to do your personal best. Seek the Lord, with the intention of doing your personal best and watch how the hand of the Lord will be seen in your life. Anyways, thanks for all your support. Thanks for those who reach out and I'll do my best to respond. 

Love from the Philippines  

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May 5, 2025

Hello Everyone! Another week down, lots more to go but we enjoying every bit! This week we had more exchanges with DLs and I was able to continue to learn from other missionaries. To the highlights of the week!

 

Crazy American:

This week we had an invitation to a dinner appointment, but this time it was Brother Nathan who is from our ward. Let's just say he's a nice guy but may be a little crazy. To set up the scene he is a "Military man" who has been effected by nuclear radiation. So he has good intentions but has lost his filter, and is not afraid to say anything. So we get there as a district, walk in to his house with smoke everywhere from the cooking, it's all good because nothing really was burnt, but he realizes he's made food for about 4 people. He goes running all around, throwing chips in bowls, salsa, and some cheese dip, hands the bowl to me and says, "Ya there you go" and continues to go crazy. At this point I'm trying to hold in the laughter as my district is asking me if this is normal American style dinner. And if this is what I will become when I am older. It was definitely an experience and we will never forget it. 

 

Find joy in the little things:

This week I have been striving to stay positive through the little things. To make light of situations that are not ideal but staying positive no matter the outcome. Right now I am learning humble patience. Meaning understanding the needs of others, striving to help, and doing my personal best to lead by example even when there are obstacles. I have witnessed the outcome of these efforts which lead to a higher love to serving those you come in contact with. Even though there may be challenges, finding joy and enduring patiently is the best outcome. Anyways running out of time as always so stay safe and don't get your teeth knocked out! If you know you know-

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April 27, 2025

Hello Everyone! Another one down! This week was one of the more average missionary weeks. We found, we taught, we gave, and we worked. To the highlights of the week!

 

Its hot:

So this week I realized it really is just hot here in the Philippines. Well I realized that the day I got here but this past week we really been feeling it. So ya we just went for it and got the buzz. Don't know if it really makes that much of a difference but so be it. 

 

Work:

This week we have been helping our interested friends progress towards baptism. One thing that I really appreciate about Elder Katigbak is his teaching skills. He really knows how to teach to the needs of our Interested friends, ask inspired questions, and get them thinking. So this week we have been really focusing on the needs of the people we have been teaching to help them progress towards baptism. As a missionary there are so many things to learn each day. Between new questions asked each day, recieving new insights, learning new words (language), or just finding new insights from personal study. The mission is a place to really jumpstart da lifelong pursuit to becoming a better version of yourself. 

 

Spiritual insight:

This week I have been thinking about the gift of agency. We all make choices everyday. These choices have two outcomes: good and bad. So as we really learn about agency we can find the power we have to choose to do good, be good, and think good despite challenges, hardships, and unexpected turbulence in life's rolercoaster. Everyone encounters these choices on a daily basis. From small to big choices little by little we can really learn to develop a character of being good despite the challenges life. So my invitation for you all is to be the good. Do good, learn to be patient, to endure with joy despite hardship, and I can promise you will draw the love of the savior into your life. You will feel of his love for you and you will see others with that same perspective. Well till next week-

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April 20, 2025

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Yo what is going on fam and friends! Hope all is well with you! This week went really well! We had lots of eventful things between meetings, zone council meeting, zone conference, interviews with President, exchanges with the AP'S, and the best part finding new people to make covenants with our Heavenly Father! To the highlights of the week-

 

Zone Conference:

We had such an awesome Zone Conference this week! It was all centered on the Easter season and the Atonement of Jesus Christ. President Fernandez really spoke profoundly about the importance of our understanding of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. He highlighted the ultimate love of the savior and his sacrifice for us. He invited us to deepen our understanding of the Atonement of Jesus Christ and what that really means for each and everyone of us. As missionaries he invited us to really ponder this and center our message on the Atonement of Jesus Christ. It was really great and what I needed to hear for this week! 

 

Miracles Never Cease:

This week we have really been focusing our efforts on those who are progressing. One of the main concerns when I got here was our interested friends who attend church. Before I got here it was usually 0-2 depending on the week. With this challenge, it really makes it almost impossible to Baptize anyone. So this week we put it to the test. On top of all our other responsibilities we really focused on the needs of our Interested friends. And through obedience, faith, and hope we had 7 IP'S come to church! Not only was it really great they came, but it was also Easter Sunday. So what a great opportunity for them to really remember the Atonement/Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Anyways hope you all had a great week and remember miracles are real! 

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April 13, 2025

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Hello Everyone! Had a crazy week with transfers. Let's just say things went in a way I was not expecting but I think we are going to have a good cycle. So I got transferred to Toledo and Elder Kwok will be staying in Lunas. It was a crazy surprise since Elder Kwok has been there for 3 cycles already and I was just new there. But we just going with the flow. Anyways to the highlights of the week! 

 

Temple Trip:

So with the new transfers we got to go up to the city. Had the first MLC meeting which included going to the temple and doing an endowment session. It was the highlight of the week to have a temple session. The feeling of peace in the celestial room is always a highlight. But we had a good session followed by some meetings!

 

Second Mission President:

So we in the Toledo area which means I am now in my first ward here in the mission. This also means we have a Stake President and based on the title he is now are second mission president. So a little background about President Bautista, he is very involved with Missionary work. Which is a good thing, but it also means long phone calls, constant pressure, and new questions about stats/making a system for consistent numbers here in the zone. It is definitely adding more to do to the regular missionary work pressures. But I guess pressure just makes diamonds (while hopefully). 

 

Spiritual Thought: 

We got to watch conference this week at church. It was another highlight. One thing that stuck out to me was from Steven D Shumway "Performing gods work, we recieve the grace of god and are abilities will be magnified despite inadequacies." This message really hit home this week. With new changes, assignments, responsibility, on top of trying to just be a good missionary, sometimes it can be a little stressful. But despite the times of feeling inadequate we will recieve the grace of God and he will help us in our times of need. Especially being on the Lord's errand, he will always be there for us. We just have to trust in his plan and everything will work out for our good. Anyways, hope you all have a great week! 

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April 6, 2025

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Hello Everyone,

Anotha one down! This week we had three more Baptisms for our group and we got more on the way soon. We were able to complete the Parents of the Rabanes family! It was super awesome to see there excitement in making the first covenant. I can see of there sincere desire to follow Jesus Christ and make this next step in there life. One thing I have learned here in this area is the impact of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I don't know how to describe it in words but it just brings a perfect hope to the people here no matter there circumstances. It is a gospel of joy, power, and message that really helps all. I have witnessed this first hand and can testify of its power. Well to the highlights of the week!

 

Exchanges: 

We were rockin the exchanges this week with two different sets of Elders. Had a good time with both of them. Here in the mission you can always learn something new from other missionaries. Just as we teach people here it is equally important to get to know each other. As we develop relationships with the people we serve with, we strengthen our ability to love all. We can always find common ground with those who we serve with even if that common ground is the gospel of Jesus Christ. 

 

Baptisms: 

Always a good time to get back in the ocean! This week we went to a different place for our baptims which was pretty awesome. I baptized James who is 13 and really fell out of nowhere but progressed in 4 weeks and was baptized! We then completed the family (Renato and Genelyn)! Funny story, after I baptized James, he asked in Bisaya "Can I swim" but no time to respond he just went for it. Started swimming straight into shore. It was pretty darn funny. Then to make it better Renato who is 41 was baptized. And right after dives in the water as well. He then goes 

straight into shore with one breath. Some things like these you just have to experience but it made for a good laugh. 

 

Spiritual Thought:

This week I was thinking about how when good things are near temptations increase, challenges arise, and obstacles seem to come at you from nowhere. But, it is because like we are taught "there is opposition in all things." But when these challenges arise as we are guided by our living Prophet we need to think Celestial. As we keep our eye focused on eternal promises and focuses these little things will seem meaningless. But we have to continue with the faith, courage, and hope to overcome these things. And as we do, the wonderful blessings of good will be poured out upon you. Even in the times where it may seem hopeless, when good is near opposition will be encountered. It is normal, but even if it is not always easy, it will always be worth it in the end to do the right thing. God knows our thoughts, actions, and desires. The christlike attribute of Integrity comes into play. Doing the right thing even admidst pressure of others, differening opinions, and wants. But it is worth it because our Heavenly Father will reward us for all of our efforts. The church is true!

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March 30, 2025

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What's good everyone! This week was another one of those weeks that just flew by. We have been hitting it hard trying to get in a few more Baptisms before the end of the cycle. So far we are looking on track to have three more next week! But anyways to the highlights of the week-

 

BIQs: 

This week we had some more interviews for Baptisms. As a person with an assignment, you get to perform the Interviews. So I got to perform 5 interviews for a family from the Asturias area. It was super cool to feel of their desire to be Baptized and listen to their simple sincere testimonies of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They were more than ready and have a lot of faith given their circumstances in life. I'm very happy for them to continue on the Covenant path. 

 

Lunas Special Group:

So we have been here in Lunas almost one cycle. The work here is going crazy leaving us with little to no time to not be doing something. In other words we always busy, which means things go by fast. So this week we had a ward Baptism out in our area. One of the part member families lives about 40 minutes away so they make the effort to come to church each week. So the one son was able to get Baptized on Sunday. But when it's a group we get to conduct, speak, teach second hour, conduct baptismal service, pray, baptize, and then run the family home evening. Never a dull moment to say the least. But it is the best! Some of the most humble, welcoming people around. So it is awesome to be assigned in a group even if the organization is a little hard sometimes. 

 

Patience:

This week we have lot's of little things going on. Sometimes it feels like a lot to remember from specific invitations you gave people, to appointments, to interviews, but in all the middle you are just trying to do your best. So we need to have patience with others and ourselves along the way. As we strive to have patience, take a step back, and think celestial all of these things don't seem so big after all. So this week I invite you all to have a little more patience with yourself and others. Amping mo kanunay!

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March 23, 2025

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Whats up everyone! We had another productive, fast week. We are having a good time striving to help our group progress and be built up to hopefully become a branch soon. We have been averaging 50+ people for the past few Sundays which has been the most we have seen here in the Lunas group. Anyways to the highlights of the week-

 

The "Crazy Nanay": 

So this week we had came across two Nanay's who were riding next to us on the bus to our area. We were sitting right next to them so we started a conversation. Well turns out the one said she was a member who had been Baptized in Toledo. While I'm not gonna lie we didn't really believe her but she said her sister (who is not a member) wants us to visit them. So, we kinda went on with the next few days. While, on Friday we got off of the bus and see this Nanay walking. While it turns out it was her sister who wanted us to visit. So we follow this Nanay who is 82 about 30 minutes away to her house. We get there and begin to share about the Book of Mormon. She says to wait for a second and goes in and grabs a trifold of BOM/D&C/Pearl of Great Price with the signatures of multiple Elders from 2011. So we were shocked and made the connection of when her Baptism was. So now, we have found a member who was unaware of our special sacrament just 15 minutes away and her sister is interested. It was a crazy experience but was super cool to see the Lord leading us to his disciples. 

 

The Dogs:

Okay so anyone who knows about the Philippines will tell you about all the stray dogs everywhere. It doesn't matter if you are province or city, there are always dogs. But to be honest I don't know if you should call them dogs or disease carrying carcasses that look like they should be dead but aren't. Just kidding but anyways they are everywhere. So the other day we stopped by at a Tindahan to buy a snack. We just chillin on the bench and all of a sudden 5 dogs come by. While lets just say one Female and the others were a little competitive. Anyways, I'll let you decide where to take that but anyways just some things in the Philippines you won't see anywhere else haha. Well we on the discussion of animals saw a little snake as well. We were looking at it and one of the Brads comes over to stomp on it. We like, "Okay big guy" well it got stuck to his foot, got flung up in the air about 4 feet, and then resulted in the guy running away a little bit. Well, it turns out he wasn't him after all. Another one of those random things.

 

Trust the Process:

Well, here in the mission we are always talking/teaching people about faith, hope, and trust. The best teachers are the ones who have experiences, gone through certain circumstances, and are relatable. Well, if you can talk the talk but not walk the walk then what's the point of teaching something you don't live. Well, here in the mission there are many lessons you learn. Whether humility in learning a new language, trust adapting to a new culture, faith in finding the elect, or even hope in finding joy in the little things. All of these many lessons I have learned here in the mission. Now just because you have learned something once, doesn't mean you are exempt from other learning opportunities. And often times these experiences are hard, difficult, but all growth comes from being pushed out of the comfort zone. To become means to be pushed, but to do so with joy and trust that build you into a stronger, more devoted follower of Jesus Christ. Well, find joy in the process and continue to become the best versions of yourselfs! Maningkamot kamo sa mahimo mas maayo kaugalingon mga versions

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March 17, 2025

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Maayong Buntag sa tanan! Grabi, paspas jud sa kining semana og unta nindot jud para sa inyoha pud. Pero moadto ta sa highlights!

 

Baptism:

This week we had the Baptism of Sister Catherine and Sister Therese! It was so awesome to get them baptized. They have been taught by the missionaries for almost a year now and have never fully been fully committed to being Baptized. But, when I first got here we focused on them and were really straight forward to the point of why we need to be Baptized. And I guess it worked hahah but they are awesome and I am grateful to have been able to help them progress on their covenant path. We are hoping to have a few more by the end of the cycle so hopefully we can continue with this momentum. 

 

Pray for: 

Cherry Gemarino, Genelyn Derecho, Glenn Lawrence Gemarino, James Balbuena, Joanne Monieva, Renato Rabanes, and Zackie Rupal

 

The Bus: 

So for our area we have to commute for about 40 minutes every day to the border of our area. The only problem is that the bus schedule is so unpredictable. So when a bus comes, there is no other choice but to get on even if there seems to be no room. While, here in the Philippines there is always room. So one day this week after our work, we saw a bus approaching after waiting for about 20 minutes. So we hopped on realizing the only space left was the steps leading into the bus. So yep, we got a nice ride hanging on the edge of the bus back to our house. It is always an adventure here in the Philippines wherever you go. 

 

Spiritual Thought:

This week I was thinking about all of the different times that we could possibly have been born. At first it seems like a weird idea, but the more that I thought about it, the more I realized the amount of trust our Father in Heaven has for each and every one of us. It is a great privilege to be living in the last dispensation of fullness of times. There is no other time like it, and we have great work to accomplish. As a missionary, we are focused solely on helping others to progress towards making covenants. Often times there are challenges, obstacles, and temptations that work towards interfering with the work. But, as a disciple of Jesus Christ, once you realize your potential, the trust the Lord has for you, and your divine identity all of these little things become meaningless. You can continue to press forward with strong confidence that the Lord has reserved you for this specific time. He knows of your potential and wants you to seek his help. One thing that I really liked from our last zone conference was “When you are on the Lord's Errand, you are Entitled to his help!” What a great reminder that despite the challenges of life, whatever calling, work, or opportunity to building up the kingdom of God you have the right to God's help. So, this week, As you strive to do your personal best, ask the Lord with a sincere desire to help you. As you do this, he promises to help us fulfill whatever task we need to accomplish in his timing. 

 

Anyways, thanks for all your support and the constant emails. Love from the Philippines-

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March 9, 2025

What's good everyone! Wow what another fast week here in the Philippines. It's crazy how fast and slow and everything in the middle goes here in the mission. This week we had a really awesome week! We got to go to the temple, set two people on baptismal date, and find some of the elect waiting for the gospel. To the highlights of the week!

 

Temple Trip: 

This week we had the opportunity to go to the Cebu Temple. It was so awesome! We were able to have zone conference one day and then the following day we had the temple/testimony meeting. It was a really great experience just to feel that peace in the temple. It really did feel like I was back at home for a little bit and was a really nice reminder of what our efforts lead too. We also had a great zone conference filled with new focuses here in the Cebu Mission. The main takeway is the work is hastening, we need to do our part, consecrate our time, and remember we are the ones who open the door to the celestial kingdom! It was a great two day conference! Also, we got to stay the night at the AP's house. Hot water! Sheesh that was crazy as well as a shower head. Just those little things you forgot about hahah crazy but it was so refreshing. 

 

Lunas: 

We in the jungle hahah. Are new area is about 40 minutes from our house pretty much in the middle of nowhere, but we got so much potential out there. The people are so humble, kind, and receptive to our message. We finally got through to two of our IP'S who have been taught by the missionaries for a long time, but they have committed to be Baptized next week. So as of now, if everything goes to plan, we got two Baptisms next week. It is awesome to see the hand of the Lord in the work and see people soften their hearts to accept the restored gospel. Also, we be working to find the elect. So far, we've found some pretty awesome people who look to have good potential here in Lunas. So hopefully we got them rolling on the lessons and have some more Baptisms soon. 

 

Spiritual Thought:

This week when we were in the temple, I flipped to John 1 in the New Testament. My temple scripture is 4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. Simple but a good reminder to share the light of christ. As missionaries we have the opportunity to share the message of the gospel, but what makes our message that much more personal is if the people can feel of the light of christ through our sincere testimonies, words, actions, and deeds. As we are worthy to have the spirit, our light will shine bright and the darkness can comprehended it not. So, my invitation to you is to share the light of christ. Live in a way that magnifys his love and you will feel the spirit magnify your efforts. You will feel of his love more complete as you strive to live this way. Well, thanks for all of your support! You guys are awesome! Till next week...

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March 2, 2025

Yo! What's good everyone! Sheesh this week was absolutely crazy. We had a special dual mission conference with Cebu East with Elder Rasband! We had transfer calls! And we are know running a new special sacrament group! To the highlights of the week!

 

Elder Rasband Special Zone Con:

So this past week we had the special opportunity to have a Elder Rasband visit our mission. It was a really cool opportunity to hear an apostle of the Lord deliver a personal message to the missionaries. He even gave us a little sneak peak of his general conference talk for this upcoming April. I'll let you all find out in April... But before he gave his remarks, to my surprise I was asked to give a testimony in front of the missions. Usually I feel like they would tell you this in advance, but I lucked out to be the first one to share my testimony with 5 minutes notice. I always say this, but the mission has taught me one thing- To always be prepared! But that didn't shake the nerves out but I think it went okay haha.  Anyways it was a super cool conference and so fun to see the batchmates from the MTC. Shoutout Batch #821

 

Transfer Calls:

WOW! This was a crazy transfer call with so many different things happening. I got transferred to Toledo Zone assigned in the Lunas area. We are about a 40 minute bus ride to our area everyday and are running a special sacrament out there. When I first found out my area I was happy expecting a Ward since Toledo is a stake. Sike! We be running the special sacrament again and this time my companion is Elder Kwock who is from Australia! He is one cycle behind me so I'm follow-up training him. So we are in for a treat this cycle because legit no one in our area speaks English. We are sucluded but nothing like jumping into the deep end to teach you how to swim. Anyways, I think this will be a very fruitful cycle filled with many miracles and seeing the help of the Lord in all aspects of missionary work. We are going to work hard this transfer and get some more Baptisms! Also another ocean Baptizing area 

 

Spiritual Thought: 

Mosiah 29: 20 But behold, he did deliver them because they did humble themselves before him; and because they cried mightily unto him he did deliver them out of bondage; and thus doth the Lord work with his power in all cases among the children of men, extending the arm of mercy towards them that put their trust in him

 

Yep that one hit home this week. Whenever we feel inadequate or are not sure if we can, we need to trust in the Lord. He is there for us, he knows of our needs, and will help is through our humility, faith, and trust in his plan. I think this scripture sums up challenges perfectly because it all works out through the Lord! We just need to trust in him and do our best! I hope you all have a great week and thanks for reaching out. I'll do my best to get back to you all! 

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February 23, 2025

Hello Everyone! Hope you all had a great week! What the sheesh, its already transfer week. This transfer has gone by so fast but we had another great week to most likely end the run here in MoalBoal. Anyways to the highlights of the week!

 

Miracle Moment:

So this week the sisters have been planning to have a Baptism for Nanay Cristina! She has been super prepared and ready to take the step to be Baptized and enter the covenant relationship with Heavenly Father. So yesterday we get a call in the morning from the sisters that said that she told them that she was not going to be going through with the Baptism that day because her husband has been having really bad PTSD (She needed to attend church, and the Baptism was going to take place later that day). The sisters asked if we would be able to come and give him a blessing. Well, we were supposed to teach the institute class that morning, but really felt the need that this was much more important. So we went as quickly as we could to their house to give Tatay a blessing. A little background on Tay is that he has never spoken when the missionaries have been there. He usually just lays in the house and doesn’t say anything. So when we got there, they were all outside sitting on a bench. We decided that the best thing to do was to give him a blessing of peace and comfort. My first thoughts were it would make sense for my Bisdak companion to give him the blessing, but it turns out he had other ideas. I ended up giving him a blessing, and man, I don’t have words to describe the feeling of peace, power, an indescribable feeling of comfort as I gave Tay the blessing. So after the blessing, we sat there for a little while while some tears were shed and Tay ended up deciding he would be joining us at church (also his first time going there). He then began to speak to us as he never had done in the past. So we were able to go to church, and he was able to be there the whole time with Nanay Cristina who was baptized later that day! It was truly a miracle and was an exceptional testament to me of the Priesthood power. What an incredible blessing it is to have the Priesthood here on the Earth allowing us to make covenants and receive these wonderful blessings. 

 

The day I almost crapped my pants (wait what): 

Okay so to say the least, I’ve been here in the Philippines for almost six months and have had no problems with the food in any sorts. From street foods, to balut, to barbeque chicken intestine, liver, squid, etc. Anyways, we were at one of my favorite Karenderia’s and I got my normal. Yutan and mongos which are both soups. I usually get them every night from here, so it's a typical choice. While, turns out something was wrong with the mongos, because it resulted in a upset stomach for the night. But that wasn’t the problem. So the next morning, I thought the bug was past and I ate my usual six eggs and sardines for breakfast. While, we got into our third teaching appointment for the day and that’s when I felt it. Ohh crap, litterally. While my companion was teaching about the Book of Mormon, I started to sweat bullets. He looked over at me like, what is wrong with you haha. But he got the gesture and we left quickly after. Luckily, we went up to one of our other Interested Friends house who luckily had running water. So the problem was avoided (fewf) except it was a little interesting using someone else's bathroom haha. Anyways never a dull moment and thank goodness no catastrophe! 

 

Well maybe a little too much information but just keeping it real- 

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February 16, 2025

Hello Everyone! Hope you all had a great valentines day. This week was a pretty average week in the mission field. Had some good successes teaching and were able to find some more families to teach. Anyways to the highlights of the week. 

 

Valentines Day Kiss

Well, I’ll start with the title of my email this week. Never would I have thought that this would be the title of my email, but let’s just get into the story. So, in our special sacrament group, we have two Nanay’s (Grandmas) who were recently baptized within the last two months. They are always with each other and we have started to call them the newest primary members of our special sacrament. Anyways, the newest member (Nanay Adelpha) stops by on Valentines evening around 8:00. At first we were confused why she was visiting but ends up she had a gift for each of us. She ended up giving each of us a random shirt and pair of pants. Most likely thrifted from one of the Ukay-Ukay stores (Similar to thrift store). It was very kind of her given her humble circumstances and really having no money but lets just say Fillipino sizes are not the same as the ones from America. The shirt she gave me was about to pop haha but its the thought that counts. She visited for a little bit, but really she is not supposed to be there because of our curfew hours. So we said our thanks and appreciated her gift. Then the unexpected happened. When she was saying goodbye, she first said it to Elder Artigo who was grabbed by the face and given a kiss on the cheek. Second goes Elder Malabanan with a similar experience, except he tries to avoid the kiss. This time making it worse because she overpowers him to get the kiss on the cheek again. Grabi man, Pastilan, its my turn. I accept defeat and just go with the flow ending up with a 70+ year old nanay with some missing teeth give me a kiss on the cheek. Harmless, but was not expecting this on Valentines day here in the Philippines. 

 

Golden Compound:

This week we were doing some finding in the border of our area. I’m starting to feel like we have explored lots of the more common places in our area so we are getting creative in our finding approach. So we started off on a little trail where some people had recommended we check out. It ended up taking us to what I call the golden compound. We started talking with each of the families from house to house and it turns out they are all related. It was cool because they all were very kind, open to our message, and overall receptive to what we had to share. I think there is good potential with these families. Overall, there were about 35 people that we talked with here and good potential so hopefully next week we can start to tell if they are really interested in the church or just a tall American who has blonde hair haha. 

 

Thought for the week:

Well lets just say the doctrine and covenants is legit GOATED towards missionary work. This week have been studying come follow me during personal study and reading along with the chapters. I want to share about Chapter 11 verse 21 which states:

“Seek not to declare my word, but first seek to obtain my word, and then shall your tongue be loosed; then, if you desire, you shall have my Spirit and my word, yea, the power of God unto the convincing of men.” This scripture is very personal to me because often as a missionary you sometimes wonder if you know enough. Or what if you can’t answer the question that someone asks. But, this verse brings about great peace to me because I know that as I seek and desire to know, than the spirit will do the rest. As long as we strive to do our personal best to learn, are diligent, and seek to obtain his word, we can know with confidence that we have enough. We know for ourselves and can have a humble confidence in our ability to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

 

Anyways, there’s the highlights of the week! Thanks for your support and love!

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February 10, 2025

Kumusta sa tanan! Hope everyone is doing well and enjoyed this past week. We had so much that happened this past week! So I'll start with the first story from the past week!

 

Zone Con/Mission Tour:

Well, mission tour complete and accomplished haha. It was an eventful couple of days but we made it through all well and motivated. My favorite points from President Fernandez was about our covenants that we have made. The fact that as missionaries we have made temple covenants of obedience. What a simple but profound message about how as missionaries we have promised through temple covenants with God to be obedient. He gave a great message! Then to follow was President Revello and Sister Revello. Their main points were the importance of inviting quite literally everyone to be baptized and attend church. Of course conversion is a gradual process but as we remember that the time is near of the saviors return, we need to hasten our work as missionaries. They also ended with some statistics about where we need to be as a mission in the next year. Let's just say it would be quite the big jump of about 1800 per year. At first I was a little surprised by the statistic compared to where we are now, but then I realized, lets do it. If we do and give everything we can do, everyday, we can and will be able to expect miracles from the Lord. This being one of the miracles we can expect. Overall, had a great experience and a great personal interview with President Revillo as well! 

 

The day we almost died (not really):

Okay so lets get into the story. So we've all heard about the crazy mission stories and I always wondered if I would get to experience one while serving. Well, I think we got one. So this week on Friday we were doing finding in the Mountains. To say the least it was a pretty rural area (Bukid jud) sounds better than english (idk why). Anyways, we had some pretty good success and then it started to down pour. And what do you know, I forgot my umbrella at an interested friends house from 3 appointments ago. So, we found a waiting shed and were chilling for a lil bit. Fast forward to about 15 minutes later a truck pulls up with two guys. They just pull over, hop out, and are just sitting there across from us. We just ended up sitting there still because it was pooring rain. Fast forward about 5 minutes and another guy shows up with a machette type knife. We weren't too bothered until we realized people from the truck and the other guy were dead staring at eachother. For about 2 minutes of being uncomfortable the guy with the machette starts to walk back up the mountain. After about ten seconds we start walking back down. Then, my companion looks around and the guy is right on our back about 20 yards away coming towards us. We then book it! We ran for a good 5 minutes ending up at a random house. We ask the owner if we can come in and wait for a while. We then explained what had happened. We ended up being fine and no harm but I don't think I'll ever see my companion run that fast again haha. Anyways, I don't think we were in any harm more of just weird circumstances leading to a nice 5 minute run in pouring rain haha. Anyways, never a dull moment. 

 

Well, thanks for all of the emails and I'll do my best to get back to you. As always, enjoy the next week and find the joy in the little things-

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February 3, 2025

Hello Everyone! Hope you all had a great week! This week was definitely filled with all sorts of surprises from the highest of highs to some less fun things but everything is great haha! But we continue on working hard and learning from each experience.  

 

I had a surprise call from President yesterday, and he scared me a little bit haha. He started conversation by saying, 

"Hello Elder Pennock, is Elder Artigo with you"

Response, "Yes President"

President Fernandez, "Okay, can I talk with you privately" 

Response, "Yes"...

President, "Elder Pennock, I have heard some things about you from the other Missionaries. Are you aware of these things?"

Response, "Uhh I'm not sure President, what did they say"

President, "Just kidding" 

(sigh of relief haha)

President: "Elder Pennock, you have been selected to have a personal interview next week with President Revillio during the mission tour. I hope you have been preparing spiritually"

Response: " Sounds great President. Thank you"

 

Sheesh, surprise call with the President about gave me a heart attack haha. I didn't know what he meant at the beginning, but ends up he just likes to joke around haha. But overall he informed me that I, along with a few other missionaries, have been invited to meet with a member of the Area Presidency, Elder Revillio, this upcoming week! I'm not entirely sure what to expect, but I'm grateful for this rare opportunity to learn from a General Authority. I'll be sure to share more about my experience with you all soon.

 

This past week has been a great finding week for my companion, Elder Artigo, and me! We've been working diligently to find new friends, and the Lord has truly blessed our efforts. We met an amazing family who are eager to learn more about the gospel, and we've already had a few return appointments with them. We also had a great experience finding in a new area and finding several potential friends who are interested in hearing our message. 

 

This week I want to focus my spiritual thought about the power and blessings that come from daily conversion. As a Missionary it is truly amazing to see the progression of interested friends and their desire to learn about the gospel. It is even better when they begin to live and apply the commitments we offer them. As for the rest of us, conversion is so much more than a one day thing. Rather a constant process of daily spiritual upliftment, repentance, and desire to become. Because ultimately our desire, diligence, and constant effort is how we become. It doesn't matter if we are not perfect, because everyone is just doing their best. So my invitation is to take 5-10 minutes every day for spiritual upliftment. Consistent, constant effort every day is how we become. So this week, I invite you to find those moments in your busy life to remember the Lord and learn of him.

Thanks for all your support!

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January 26, 2025

https://photos.app.goo.gl/YWtcbTXUp8FVwtBR7

 

What's good everyone! Crazy week full of miracles and success. Well I feel like I say this every week but it really is never a dull moment here on the mission. It was a super productive week full of finding, Family Home Evenings, and teaching about Jesus Christ. To the highlights of the week!

 

The 5 Million:

Well I'll jump right into the title of my email. This week we focused on expanding our teaching pool. It was a solid day of finding and we were successful. As we were finding we were in the mountains and came across this "Resort" under construction. It was pretty legit for being in the mountains. We then realized there were some people inside checking it out. And before we know it they are waving us over to them. We go over and start to ask a few questions. Then all of a sudden he says he's a famous YouTuber/Blogger here in the Philippines. We were a little optimistic at first but quickly believed it when he showed us his page. Before we know it they are filming us and ended up uploading the video to his channel/Facebook. Fast forward two days and we went viral with 5 Million views. Crazy day/experience but I think we set the new mission record for most finding in a day haha. 

 

FHE: 

This week we focused our efforts on the Palanas Family. They are progressing well and are going to get Baptized next week if everything continues to go well! We had a family home evening for them, well more family home afternoon because they don't have electricity. So we had it this week on Saturday. It was a blast and I think they really had a great time. We were able to share a message and have some games with all the Missionaries in our district. We had a good time and they really enjoyed it. The highlight was playing Chubby Bunny. For anyone who doesn't know, you add a marshmallow, say Chubby bunny, and then repeat until you can no longer speak haha. It was definitely a funny experience watching the Missionaries stuff their faces with marshmallows. We had a good time on Saturday and then they came to church on Sunday so it was all worth it!

 

Spiritual Thought:

This week I would like to focus my thoughts on enjoying the journey. Here in the mission I have learned to find joy in the small and simple things, to go with the flow of unpredictable situations, and to learn to just trust that everything will work out. But the thing is to learn to love the journey. Often people are so focused on the end goal that I think we forget to enjoy what's right in front of us. To take a minute, look around, and enjoy the things which we encounter. To know that for whatever the reason may be, we encounter these situations to refine us and learn/grow. Ultimately everything we learn is preparing us to return to our Heavenly Father. I am very grateful for the experience I am gaining here and hope this week whatever your journey may be, to look around and find joy in the small and simple things. 

 

Well guys, that's all for this week and hope you all have a great week! Thanks for all of your emails and sorry if I can't get back for a week or two. Thanks-

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January 20, 2025

Whats going on everyone! This week was crazy because we had transfers. It was pretty predictable but I stayed here in Dumunjug. I got a new companion Elder Artigo. Sad to say goodbye to Elder Rafisura but just part of the mission. Elder Artigo is from Mindanao so he's Bisdak (Fluent Bisaya speaker). Hes a great missionary similar to Elder Rafisura. But anyways to the highlights of the week- 

 

Transfers: 

We had the transfer call which is always fun. Feels more like the NBA draft. After the transfer call we had a chill night. The next morning Elder Rafisura was supposed to get picked up at 6:45 am. We then were awaken by Elder Rafisura at 4:00 saying the driver was outside. So little bit of a crazy goodbye but its all good. We are going to see eachother soon because we have a Mission Tour the first week of Febuary. We then  found out Elder Rasband will be coming Febuary 25th for a combined mission devotional. Its going to be awesome and am really looking forward to it!

 

Miracles:

This week after transfers we had our real first day of work. I dont know what happened but it all of a sudden felt like the training wheels came off. It was a crazy cool experience to see the gift of tongues. I was able to teach, ask questions, understand, and really feel the power of that gift. It was really awesome! We then taught a lady unexpectadly looking for Brother Joseph. The place where we thought his house was was really another families. After figuring that out we then asked if we could share a short message. She agreed and then I started with the first lesson. As I was talking I didn't realize until after i finished but she had tears coming down her eyes. It was a cool experience to feel the spirit through the lesson. 

 

Spiritual Thought:

The Lord really does love effort. It is maybe a concept that we are all familiar with but this week I wanted to emphasize it. The past 3 Months here in the Cebu mission have taught me so many things. But one thing is the miracles that come from exact obediene and hard work. Hard work is what I want to focus on. Learning a language is no easy task but a gradual proccess of constant effort. Through contless hours of study, practice, humility, and dedication it really does come. This week I felt I was able to reap my reward of consistent daily effort. The second way we show hard work in the mission field is through the missionary work itself. There are rules supposed to be followed and times to be out working. And many missionaries can be out of the house before 8:00 am, but whats the point if you don't get to work. I have learned the best way to see the hand of the Lord is by doing your personal best, giving forth your best effort, and then putting everything else in his hand. Because if we are doing our personal best, there is nothing else that can be asked of us. I can testify through this work ethic, then thats when you are able to find that holier and higher joy. Watching people draw unto Christ and really find there purpose is an undescribable feeling. Anyways, thanks for getting through the email! 

 

Have a great week! Share your light!

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January 12, 2025

Wow, time really goes by way to fast here on the mission! It's crazy this week I'll officially "graduate" my trainee days. This week we also said goodbye to Elder McCarthy who is legit such a sick bro. It was so fun to become such great friends with him and to know Australia is getting a stud back. Anyways just part of the mission life! To the highlights of the week-

 

Dumanjug Special Sacrament:

Well, here in the Philippines we got lots of work constantly. The area that I am in consists of a Branch and a Special Sacrament which is held in a waiting shed (Like a tropical pavilion). So luckily for the Missionaries we get to run the branch and the Special Sacrament, jkjk but sometimes it feels like that. This week we set up the Special Sacrament, the first counselor was late so I ended up conducting without a program (just go with the flow), and spoke. It was an eventful Sunday but luckily it was all worth it because we had interested friends show up. 

 

Argao:

This week we had an in person YML meeting. Got to travel to Argao and meet with all the other district leaders and their companions in person. It was a crazy 1 and a half hour drive of real life Forza. Low key crazy but we made it again safe and sound. After the meeting we went to a pretty nice place for dinner and got some grub with a banana shake (shake made it worth the trip). Refocused and reemphasized the importance of our Zone Goals and the miracles that come from exact obedience. Once you understand that obedience is not there to limit what you can do but rather an opportunity to show your desire to follow, that's when the miracles come. The zone is really working on that right now and it's cool to see the miracles that come from that. 

 

Osmania Peak:

Last P-Day after the email was sent got to do a sick hike. It was such a cool drive and crazy view at the top. The beauty of the Philippines is crazy. Definitely a check off of the to do list here!

 

Spiritual Thought:

This week been focusing on studying the Doctrine and Covenants. Wow it is packed full with so many verses applicable to Missionary work. One of my favorite verses from this week's study is chapter 18 verse 44, " And by your hands I will work a marvelous work among the children of men, unto the convincing of many of their sins, that they may come unto repentance, and that they may come unto the kingdom of my Father." The Lord has so much in store for each and every one of us. Being here on the mission, I have already learned how important it is to just trust in the Lord. Of course it is easier said than done, however through Faith and Hope in Jesus Christ, our burdens may become light. It is awesome to be able to see the hand of the Lord in the small and simple things here in the mission. I invite you all to look for those small and simple things each day, and to take a minute to recognize the help which you have received. Anyways, hope you all are enjoying the New Year and are keeping up the work on those New Year Resolutions!