Elder Van in Spain: Changes. Again

The Mediterranean

Hola a todos!!!

I am sorry for missing last weeks email! It has been a wild past few weeks to say the least! Last week, I was in Huercal-Overa, however I got a call from Presidente telling me there were going to be some "emergency transfers," and that I was going to be leaving. I had some mixed feelings for sure. I really loved Andulucia, and the people, Viva Andulucia, but I am no stranger to unexpected changes in the mission. I got transferred to Les Illes Balears, in a city called Palma. For those who don't understand Mallorcan, myself included, the Islands! It is so pretty here, and I have had a great week!!!

But anyways, in Huércal Overa, although I did not know it was my last week until that Friday, we had a very good week. We were able to meet with lots of friends, and share sacred truths with them and the Spirit was in complete abundance, it was awesome. And then after receiving a quick call from the Mission President, well that kind of changed plans. I was able to navigate the train system in Spain, and the 7 hour train ride from Murcia to Barcelona. And from there make my way through the Barcelona airport and onto the islands. Again, this place is amazing. The island has kind of a California coast vibe, and the Mediterranean is as blue and crystal clear as Lake Tahoe. It is also incredibly GREEN. And well, coming from good ol' Carson Valley Nevada, green isn't a color we see too often.

And here in Palma, everything is booming. We are going from cita to cita to cita, and when I find some free time to sit down, I quickly think of something I need to do. It's a lot like a Friday night shift at In-N-Out. Ya know right after the Volleyball and Soccer teams all come in at like 10:30, and everyone decides to order 2 fries and a shake, it's kind of crazy. But I love it. We had some really meaningful citas with people this past week, and I only just got here. As of right now, Las Islas Balareas is not big enough to be a stake, and is a district. However, the members here are incredibly strong and faithful, and we see miracles daily when we teach people, and find more people in need of the Gospel. In fact, this past week we met with the very first member who was baptized in the islands, which just shows how little time the church has been growing here.

Anyways, I hope everyone is doing excellent. And to the many of you who may be starting school, college, or anything like that, with discouraging news of online learning, and confusing schedules of other classes in person, keep your head up. Good days are ahead, and things will get better. A scripture that we found many people here needing is found in Alma 37:36-37, and I am sure it can be applied right now.

36 Yea, and cry unto God for all thy support; yea, let all thy doings be unto the Lord, and whithersoever thou goest let it be in the Lord; yea, let all thy thoughts be directed unto the Lord; yea, let the affections of thy heart be placed upon the Lord forever.

37 Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for good; yea, when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may watch over you in your sleep; and when thou risest in the morning let thy heart be full of thanks unto God; and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at the last day.

I know God lifts and supports us, especially during difficult times. So remember this scripture, and pray! Pray with sincerity, and have a conversation with your Heavenly Father. He loves you, more than you can even imagine, and he wants the absolute best for you. So, simply said: Pray!!!

Until next week, sorry for the 5 page essay

Élder Van Wagenen

God Bless America, Viva España

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