October 31, 2022 - Namwon

 First things first, transfer calls came, and I will be staying! However, my companion is leaving for 세종 (SeJong). It has been a good but short run with Elder Idiart, and it is sad to say goodbye to such an awesome elder. My new companion's name is Elder Kent, and we share the same first name! I don't know much about him, so expect some good in the next email.

Also, it was 전주 (Jeonju) Stake Conference on Sunday! It is always incredibly difficult for me to stay focused and awake for 2 hours of difficult Korean talks, but there were several stand out speakers that kept my attention. The Stake President's words in particular stood out to me. He spoke of the need to stand in holy places, warned of the consequences of not doing so, and invited all to evaluate what unholy places they need to remove themselves from. It rang very similar to a BYU devotional I had heard recently titled "Avoid It". It spoke in similar terms to its audience, although in a much different language. God doesn't take half measures, and waning off the habits we wish to break will never bring the results we hope.

I also went on two separate exchanges this week! Both were with Koreans, and both were with previous companions! The first was up in Jeonju with 이현호 (Lee Hyunho), and we had multiple appointments across the city, teaching and sharing the gospel with others. He is a fantastic teacher, and it was a joy to work with him again. the second was here in Namwon with 길강산 (Gill Gangsan). Unfortunately it was a quiet day in the city, but we had a couple good run ins and one good appointment. The coming of winter is starting to kill street finding. It was still a great opportunity to share how missionary life has developed for each other since we split, and we had a lot to talk about! I hope some of  the things I said prove useful.

We had some fun studying in some fun places again this week, including the mountains and the public library. I love the opportunities I have to study as a missionary! I have been increasing my focus on the life of Christ recently, and have been using some resources that are new to me. The New Testament is nothing short of incredible, and His life is infinitely deep. I reread the introduction to "Jesus The Christ" by Elder Talmage this week, and was struck by this particular passage:

The solemn testimonies of millions dead and of millions living unite in proclaiming Him as divine, the Son of the Living God, the Redeemer and Savior of the human race, the Eternal Judge of the souls of men, the Chosen and Anointed of the Father—in short, the Christ

I am so grateful that my testimony can stand among the millions of wonderful disciples before me. I do testify that Jesus Christ is our Savior, Redeemer, and that through Him and by Him, we can find lasting happiness, true peace, and needed power.

Also, I finally found Pokemon bread.

Have a fantastic week!!

Elder Wardle

Pictures: Doing Companion study at the top of the hill again with the amazing view, , me and Elder Idiart, Pokemon bread, Exchanges, zone activities, etc.