Adios Parlita 🥹

This last Saturday we received transfer news and I will be leaving Parla to go to Sanlúcar in the Cádiz zone. Parla has been an incredible area and I will be sad to leave so soon. The rama of Parla feels like a family, there is so much diversity and desire to work that it makes for a wonderful church unit. I was able to witness the growth of this branch, but also the personal growth of many friends and in myself. It was incredible to watch as people moved in and began to take on assignments, strengthening and organizing the branch. There should be much growth in this upcoming months.

On Sunday we were able to have the baptism of Brunna! She has been progressing for a long time and was extremely ready for it. It was a beautiful experience as we heard a talk in Portuguese as was the confirmation done in her native language. We also had a friend named Gloria there. She had been progressing and coming to church, but was waiting to feel a confirmation of the things she had been taught. In the baptism of Brunna she felt such a strong influence of the Spirit that she began to cry and said she would like to be baptized too. Somehow we were able to do her baptism last night and it was an incredible service! Many missionaries were there and we sang "I will Walk with Jesus." I am sure she felt the truthfulness of her decision and I am extremely grateful to have been able to teach and learn with her.

This week we in other fun news we ate with our good friend Paco! After eating a delicious meal, we went to the kitchen to find the place filled with cockroaches.  Better to find after than before! I am not sure the bowl of fresh pineapple under the sink was helping much the situation. 

It has been quite gratifying to, from scratch, start this area and watch as God blesses us with incredible people. Sometimes, those blessings don't show up as a baptism. Meeting new friends and helping them along the path as they help you is something very beautiful. Although it is a shame I can't stay for longer, I know someone will take my part of the chain and continue.

Isaiah 61:1

The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;

Elder Dougall