Samuel John Arkoudas, Illinois,Chicago Spanish speaking Mission: Power of the Priesthood

Friends and Family (I could reallly put just family because I really do love you all just like my family),

This week has been such a testimony builder to me of the Power of the Priesthood! I'm sorry that I dont have a ton of time to put a lot of detail into this email, but I'd like to share a couple of experiences.

First, we were out visiting some former investigators with a YSA from our ward, Amos; we had just gotten out of a lesson with our investigator when we got a call from the Hermana missionaries in the area, asking us if we could give a blessing to one of the less-active members in their area. We quickly rushed over there and were able to give her a blessing right then and as soon as we left, the Hermanas texted us telling us that Hna. Olvera (the less active woman) felt so much better and recovered so quickly. That warmed my heart a lot to be able to be there for the Lord to work through us like that and it just kind of empowered me to always be worthy of that sacred gift we as Priesthood holders are give.

Then, the very next night during our Branch mission meeting, I could tell that one of our Hermana missionaries was feeling pretty sick and was even in pain. After the meeting, I felt prompted to ask her if she'd like a blessing and she accepted. She is currently feeling a lot better and is recovering very well.

This experience in particular stood out to me because for the first time in my life, I actually decided to seek out using my Priesthood to serve someone and to bless someone. As I studied on that a little bit this week, I realized that THAT is exactly what we are supposed to do with our Priesthood: SEEK out opportunities to bless and lift others and to help others in their trials, either physical or emotional.

I know that this church is true and it is the only true church where the Priesthood Power and Authority are found. I know that Thomas S. Monson is a Prophet of the Lord and that he holds the keys to lead and guide the church. I love each and every one of you and I hope that you can all find opportunities to serve your fellow men this week, and throughout the rest of your lives. I know that what it says in Mosiah 2:17 is true, that when we are in "the service of [our] fellow beings [we] are only in the service of [our] God."

Good luck to you all this week and know I pray for you each and every day.

Love Ya!

Elder Arkoudas