Faith.Ph

My parents taught me about the missionary life. They taught me how to pray and the importance of reading the scriptures each day. They introduced Jesus Christ into my life. Because of that, I learned about His atoning sacrifice. Jesus Christ influenced me the most in my decision to serve a mission.

I am very grateful for His atoning sacrifice. He sacrificed for us because He truly loves us and because of that, I am willing to sacrifice my 18 months because I truly love Him.

When I was about to receive my mission call, my papa and I had a short conversation about the number of attendance during Sacrament Meeting here in the Philippines and other countries in Asia. Something came into my mind about Japan and that really impressed me.

Days after, I received my mission call. I am assigned to labor in the Japan Tokyo Mission. Little did I know that I will be called to serve there.

I know God lives. I truly believe that He will never leave us comfortless. He loves us and that love is unconditional. We are eternally encircled in His love.

— Michaela Jean Flores
Palo, Leyte

If the plan doesn't work, change the plan but never the goal.

Any thoughts?

Credit: Stephanie Lim Panugaling

During our teenage years, one of the most common questions was what are our goals in life. I used to say, "I want to become a doctor" or "I want to travel the world". But as years passed, I realized that I just want to be happy.

Becoming a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- Day Saints, and fully accepting and living the restored gospel of Jesus Christ have given me that happiness.

For this, I am forever grateful. And if people were to ask what motivated me to serve a full- time mission, it is LOVE... love towards my Father in heaven and in my Savior and Redeemer Jesus Christ.

The moment I opened my mission call, all experiences I had whether it be good or bad came to me like a flashback. I have suffered hardships at a very young age and a product of a broken home.

I will be serving the Lord for a year and 6 months because I also want to share that genuine and long lasting happiness to all His children and assist Him in this work. Our brothers and sisters who are not of our faith may view this decision of mine as something crazy, that instead of focusing on my career goals and family, I am here preparing to leave all personal affairs behind. I may have that major shift of perspective but after all, I will be a servant to the greatest Master.

I know everything is a choice and anything can start with a desire. If our decisions are righteous, the adversary will also try to pull us down but Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ will lead us, guide us and will never leave us.

I know it is only in the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ where we understand that joy is more than a fleeting feeling or emotion; rather, it is a spiritual gift and a state of being and becoming.

— Sister Mirabele Antigua Camoro
Mandaue 2nd Ward, Mandaue Stake, Cebu
Assigned to labor in the Canada Vancouver Mission