Picking up my new Anak

Magandang hapon!

What a great week, as always, here in the mission. This week I found out who my anak (trainee) is! The process of choosing the trainer is super thrilling. It is almost like figuring out what house in Harry Potter you are. The mission president interviews each of the new missionaries and prays for revelation on who should be their companions. After a morning of training and getting to know each other, the time comes for the big announcement. My new companion is Elder Primero and he is NUMBER ONE! Haha, he really is great though. Elder Primero is from Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines which is Ilocono speaking. He is already such a great missionary and was very prepared for the mission. He is currently just waiting for his visa because his true mission is in Sacramento, California. I am hoping he stays here for the whole 12 week training, but there is a chance he may leave at 6 weeks. He is very obedient and has such a strong desire to do what is right. He is already such a great example to me.

So far the hardest part about training is actually just leading the area. My first two companions were very experienced missionaries, and now I have the be the "experienced missionary." This opportunity to train has really helped me to rely more fully on the Lord because I cannot do it by myself. I am also learning how to be more patient with myself, especially with direction. One of my biggest weaknesses so far is knowing how to get around places in the Philippines. My area right now is one of the most squatter areas (like slum areas) in the whole mission so there are a lot of little roads that are very confusing. However now that I have to know the area I am starting to learn faster. Still a struggle though!

This week we had a fun service project where we cleaned a school. It reminded me of the good old days when I was a high school custodian. It was fun to get together with the whole district and just serve the community.

Our area currently is doing pretty great! We just had a new investigator, Albert, commit to baptism and come to church. I am excited to see his progress as we continue to teach him about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The field is truly white and ready to harvest. Loving the opportunity to grow and help others come closer to Christ. Love you all!

Elder Cadayong