Week 13

Elder Claiborne loves serving in the Philippines and learning about a new culture. But he reports that he loves America and reminds us that we are blessed beyond understanding. It appears his language skills are gradually improving. It is in his nature to work at something until he masters it, so I have no doubt he will keep pushing himself until he is comfortable in his communication skills. His update is below.

General Update:

We had a rough week of work, and lots of rain... But, like Sister Bell always tells me, we "kept truckin!"

Elder Nye and I are excited for the baptism of a 16 year old girl named Sheena this coming Saturday. It is amazing to watch a light grow in her eyes as she has accepted the gospel of Christ. She has already written her name in big, colorful letters inside the scriptures we got her. She's got scripture book marks, and loves reading in them. She is already in Alma in the Book of Mormon which is great.

I found out what address my companion uses and think it is more direct than the one I've been given, so here it is:

Elder Austin Claiborne

Philippines Manila Mission

#4 Comet Street, Bel-Air Village 2

1204 Makati City, Metro Manila

Philippines

Hope to hear from everyone soon!

Love,
Elder Claiborne