Christopher's Mission Concepcion, Chile

August 16, 2010

2010-08-17T08:46:00.000-07:00

I love my mommy! Do you love your mommy????
Hey bub

Augh, this google thing is trying to translate my letter so forgive me if the letter is in Spanish.
Well I am here in Parral doing internet after a zone activity of soccer. I was the secret weapon because I saved my energy till the very end and when everyone was tired I went and killed everyone with my soccer skills. I liked it. I was tired after. So no I have never been to that waterfall. Sounds Kool.
So I am doing great. The work is really coming along. I think that they might transfer me out of Cauquenes soon. I have been here forever. But I just want to so our families baptized before I leave. WE are going to get a baptism this week that should be great. Its the sister of Manuel that got baptized a couple of weeks ago. We are also going to have a few others hopefully before I leave.
This week I am going to finish the Book or Mormón again. I love that book. I even like the parts about war because it shows us how we should be brave and bold and not forget about the Lord and His blessings. I have been studying that a lot lately about remembering and not forgetting. I have really learned to not forget. I love it.
I love the miracles that we see. I see so many every day. This week I really learned about my own personal Gift of the Spirit. It was a miracle. You should look for yours.
I love you bob, I started calling everyone that; that or Phil. haha.
I love ya. Read D&C 27: 15-18 I love it

I love you!

Elder Morgan
But of course, I didn't want you thinking that I forgot your birthday and chagrin you! You are old now! wow! my goodness! I can't believe it! you are 15! I love it.
Happy Birthday!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I love you chagrin.

❤Listen❤ To Them Most Of All...

Dearest Mother, I Love you.

This week was great. I want to assure you that nothing dangerous has happened to me in quite sometime. I have been safe. Every once in a while there are disgruntled drunks but they are not dangerous just really loud and dumb.

I love that you are trying to get better. I have learned from Elder Reed that sometimes we Plateau, or that we stop progressing sometimes. Then we get epiphanies from our Heavenly Father that help us to be strong and to keep becoming better and stronger. Remember Ether 12:27. Never forget. We all have our own faults. Some just deal with them differently than others. Some through introversion seeming passivity and others through anger, passive or aggressive, others, and these are the smart ones, deal with them trough the Gospel. All those that don't default to the Gospel are miserable and captive. Satan wants us captive. Read the war chapters in the Book of Mormon and look for how the Nephites stayed free from captivity from the Lamanites and kingmen. Look for it! DO it!

I have learned truly what my spiritual gifts are. It was powerful for me. I'll tell you about it when I get home. Not now. But find what your gift are. It will change your life.
I gave Chanelle a good scripture to read. read it with her.

This week we taught Lorena and Gabriela. They are so amazing. We also started teaching there grandmother and niece and not they all want to get baptized. I am so happy because they are reading the book of Mormon all the way through. Every time we go over there they have questions about what they have read. We don't have a problem with them because the catholic priests can't get to them because they hate the catholic church, that's' good, huh?

I think that I wrote wrong because Manuel when to church. He has gone every week except for last week because he was sick. He is a great convert. This week we are going to baptize his sister.
I think that in September I am going to be transferred. We'll see.

I love you. I have to go. I will get you those photos asap.
I am going to get some money out to send that package. I love you.
I am Elder Morgan, disciple of Christ. I seek the salvation of all and to do my Father's will.

With love

2010-08-14T13:15:00.000-07:00

Elder Reeds Blog Christopher's Companion

2010-07-29T07:58:00.000-07:00

Click Photo

Hey Bud

I was sick as well this week. It was lame... Elder Reed ate something really gross and he got sick too. But I am ok now.

Yesterday we had a baptism. It was great. He was the son of a less active member. He bore his testimony afterward and everyone was crying because it was so beautiful. Amazing!

This week I learned twice about something very very cool: it is never a coincidence that you are in any given place at a time; there is a reason.
On Tuesday we found a golden Golden investigator when we were walking through this one area. The appointment that we had fell through and we were about to go to the other side of the sector when we randomly knocked this door. Out came this young man. We were allowed in and we taught the best lesson in the world. He told us that he felt amazing while he heard us and that he knew that it wasn't an accident that we were there. He even came to church yesterday. Awesome!
Then we found a family on Thursday when the exact same thing happened. It was great!

I don't know if I should still extend... maybe
So guess what? Our new mission President changed the rules and we can watch Disney cartoon movies.

I love you Chagrin. I hope you get better. Be sure to study a lot and go to bed early and get up early. your life will change if you do it. I promise. Life will be better. The human body really only needs 8 hours of sleep. More than that is not good. God says so. Read D&C 88.

I love you

Elder Elder

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Hey Mom,

I need to write you something really good that explains my mission. It's funny.

Wait for it.

Hey mummy, This week was ok. we were sick the whole time which was dumb. Silly body. But we worked hard even though. We found some really god people. And we got a baptism yesterday. I'll send you pictures. It was great!

Please pray for Mauricio and Lorena and Gabriela. They're amazing!

The baptism was Manuel. Thank you for your prayers!

Please read the conference from this last April. Look for what God wants you to know. I'll think that you'll find an answer.

Mom, I really want to bear my testimony to you that I know that Jesus Christ loves us. I know that he is the Son of God.

I pray that you and all of us try to understand this. Often this has been said so much and with such easiness. Let us not take this lightly.

I feel safe here with Him at my side. I know He lives and loves us.

Read the Book of Mormon more this week.

I know that there are no coincidences and this life is perfect for us. JUst absolutly perfect. I really don't know how to explain any of my feelings to you but it's like life is just clear to me now more than ever.

I love you momma. Let me know how you are really doing.

Love Elder Morgan

¸.,·ஐ·..¸.,·ஐ¸.••.¸¸¸.·´¯`·.¸·ஐ¸.••.¸·¸.,·ஐ·..¸.,·ஐ¸.•**•.¸¸¸.

Dear Mom,

I am glad that you talked about the Plan of Salvation, I have been learning a lot about that this week. He so I am sending different things in each letter to you all so you have to read dad's and Chanelle's letters.

I have been meditating a lot about the Plan lately. It is so amazing. One thing that I learned in 1 Nephi 7 was the problem with Leman and Lemuel. It repeatedly says that they "forgot."

One thing that we must not forget is that we lived before this life. We were with our Heavenly Father and that we accepted a plan that He made for us.

Another thing that we forget is our purpose in this life. Why are we here?

We also forget how much we have. What are we missing in life because we are focusing on what we don't have?
We forget to pray.

We forget to read the scriptures.
We forget to obey.

We forget to calm our tempers.

We forget family home evening.

We forget to go to the temple.

In short we forget.

But the most common and worst thing that we forget is who we are.

What is the opposite of "forget"?

Remember!

We need to remember who we are. Imagine all the problems that would be erased if we only remembered who we are.

We are Children of the Most High.

But I don't think we grasp that. It has become so oversaid--cliche' as they say. Do we really understand it?

I know that I don't. I know that I forget too. But we need to remember. We need to remember what is there for us after this life! Glorious mansions made by our Savior. We need to remember what He did for us.

Do you ever feel alone? You told me you missed me this week a lot. Remember Him; what He did.

I don't understand it, but I feel it in the deep chambers of my soul; I feel what we made for me from his blood, sweat and tears. I feel His love and I cannot forget it. I will not.

Just writing this letter to you mom makes me emotional in this internet café. I know that we are loved. I have felt it in my difficult moments. Sometimes you have no friend here but your companion and the Lord. Sometimes it's hard and you feel alone. But when I forget I am reminded by the soft whisperings of a loving Father and His loving Son that I am not alone. I am not, and you are not. Never ever forget that we are not alone in this life.

I know this.

I love you mom. Don't forget. Always remember.

Elder Morgan

Helaman 5:12

2010-07-13T06:20:00.000-07:00

Hey mom,

I am very upset about Quinn, he was such a good friend to me and the family. I know that God loves us.

I have to tell you that I can't write you letters today because it's a national holiday and everything's closed. I am writing on a church computer. But I'll write you tomorrow. I lobve you.

Elder Morgan

Mon, Jul 12, 2010
Hey Mumma,

This week was great for me. Sounds like a very sad week for you. I love how the Allan family called it a "mission farewell;" much more suiting.

I will pray for the ward. Sounds like a hard time.

So this week was nuts. We were sick towards the beginning of the week because it has been raining a lot and we got wet by a surprise monsoon/hurricane. I liked the umbrella but it doesn't work when the rain is being blown in every direction.

So after we recovered from that, we started working hard. We found some great people but more than anything our old investigators are awesome. We were teaching this one 9 year old kid, Manuel, about tithing and he said, " wait, let me get this straight. You two are saying that I have to give ten percent of my money to God?" he continued, " that's dumb, I should just give it all back seeing that it's God's money." hahaha. When we ask him questions he answers better than anyone else. He said to us, I want to tell you what I learned from 1 Nephi 11." He then proceeded to explain the vision of the tree of life amazingly. It was great.

Then we taught Claudio and his family this week and his daughter in the prayer to close said that she believed it all. She then told us that she has read most of the Book of Mormon and studied materials in Mormon.org. She is getting baptized shortly.

When we were teaching her,the Spirit was so strong. I love it!!!

Then we found this 18 yr old kid and he took notes of everything he read in the Book of Mormon. He then said, that the Book had to be true because of what he felt when he prayed. He is getting baptized shortly and then he is going on a mission.

I have more stories from the week but I can't be here for too long.

All I know is that the blessings come after the fight. You have to fight until Satan sees no more chink in your armor. Then keep fighting for the reward. I don't know if I told you this but, when I wake up I hear Satan say, "oh no, he's up."

Not really but he says it haha.

This week we are all going to have a lot of blessings. But we still have to fight. And never stop.

There are a lot of wrong things in this world that we have to have to have to fight against. First and foremost the Natural man inside of our ourselves. Then help others.

You asked me how I dealt with opposition a few weeks ago. what we all have to do is trust. I look unto Him in every thought. I doubt not; I fear not. Do the same. If it sounds hard, just fake it till you make it. You'll be ok. God Loves you. Above all else do not doubt His love for you. never.

Like the people of Alma, if we keep our trust sure the Lord will help us.

Mosiah 24:13-14

13 And it came to pass that the voice of the Lord came to them in their afflictions, saying: Lift up your heads and be of good comfort, for I know of the covenant which ye have made unto me; and I will covenant with my people and deliver them out of bondage.

14 And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions.

I love you lots and lots and lots. Miracles are coming. You'll see soon.

Love Elder Morgan

♥ ♫ ♥ ♫ ♥ I adore YOU!!! ♥ ♫ ♥ ♫ ♥

Mon, Jul 5, 2010

Hey Mamá

So yesterday I pretty much bore my testimony about the USA. It was great. I bore my testimony that without the US, Mormons wouldn't exist. I liked it. haha.

So we had a pretty good week this week, we met the new Mission Pres. He's cool. He has some ideas on how to better the teaching and make it more simple. His wife is from Cali.

I think I'll be here in Cauquenes until September or so. I hope so because we are going to baptize people!!!

My dream is to die of pneumonia for being in the water too long haha

So I am glad that Cory got to bless the grave of Quinn. I ma glad that they called it a "celebration" instead of a funeral. That's the way it should be.

For some reason they don't have fireworks for the fourth here, weird...

This week I have been doing an extensive study about faith. I have realized that our metiforical garden of life that two seeds are planted: the word of God and the great lies of Satan. As we go through life we, through choice, cultivate the different seeds. All of us through time find that we have cultivated the bitter fruit trees and weeds. The Master Gardiner then invites us to start over. But we have to cut the trees and burn them to start again. We don't want to do it but over time we get more and more desperate. So we let Him burn our gardens. He then plants a new seed. It is our choice, like it was before, to cultivate it.

I don't really know how to explain it in English because I figured it out in Spanish, but do you understand me?

Basically I learned that we can't have faith without repentance. I'll try to explain it in another tape.

I guess that you could also say that the garden looks worse before it gets better.

A good Elder Holland quote, " repentance is a bitter cup from hell, but only the owner of that place would try to convince us that that bitter cup is worse than permanent residence."

I need a new gospel study journal to write down my spiritual interbalations.

Do you remember I needed that pedigree chart and the line of priesthood authority?

Do you remember that other stuff?

I love you. I am going to be home in no time.

Add this lady named Clara to the list of people you need to pray for every day. I am glad you are doing this. It is the greatest help.

I love you a lot

Elder Morgan

satellite earth Chilean coast Tsunami

Chile Images

Chile Earthquake Broke Earth’s Crust

Posted by feww on March 10, 2010

Chile Earthquake: ‘A Complicated Fracture’

‘A jumping rupture process’

The Chilean M8.8 megaquake that struck offshore Maule region on 27 February, was a “complicated rupture process” scientists at the GFZ German Research Center for Geosciences say.

Quakes of this magnitude break the entire Earth’s crust, they said. “After closer analysis of the seismic waves radiated by this earthquake during the first 134 seconds after start of the rupture, the researchers came to the conclusion that only the region around the actual epicenter was active during the first minutes. In the second minute the active zone moved north towards Santiago. After that the region south of Concepción became active for a short time. This rupturing trend agrees well with the distribution of the aftershocks during the following three days, as observed by the GEOFON-measuring network of the GFZ up to 03.03.2010.”

Rupture Propagation After Southern Chile’s Maule Earthquake. © GFZ. Click Image to Enlarge.

In 1960, the largest ever instrumentally-recorded earthquake, which measured magnitude 9.5, originated at Valdivia, south of the Maule region. “The quake of 27 February connects directly to the rupture process of Valdivia,” said Professor Jochen Zschau, Director of Earthquake Risk and Early Warning Section at the GFZ. “With this, one of the last two seismic gaps along the west coast of South America might now be closed. With the exception of one last section, found in North Chile, the entire earth crust before the west coast of South America has been ruptured within the last 150 years.”

The Nazca plate which forms a part of the Pacific Ocean Floor moves eastwards at about 70mm per year, subducting the South American plate. Thus producing very powerful earthquakes in the region. “In the course of about one century, the Earth’s ruptures completely in a number of strong quakes from Patagonia in the South to Panama in the North. Even Darwin reported, in his diary, of the strong earthquake in Concepción on 20 February 1835 and the resulting Tsunami.”

Mon, Jun 21, 2010

2010-06-28T23:10:00.000-07:00

Bakán means cool, sweet, rad, da' bomb

Hey Bubba,

This week was awesome, I am working harder and harder every day and we're having more and more success. We found a lot of really cool people this week and we're really doing well. I love my Greenee. He is the coolest. Even though he's really new he speaks really well. Yesterday our Branch President surprised him when he told him that he had to give a talk. !!! haha. But the cool part is that it was a very good talk. After that I got up and gave a talk about the Book of Mormon. It was great because I had prepared a talk to give but then I felt like I should talk about the BoM. I'll tell you about it in a tape. In the afternoon we had a baptism. It was great. The young woman didn't want anyone to feel bad so she chose to be baptized by the one that got "tails" on the coin. I was really happy that Elder Reed got to preform the ordnance. It's his first week and he already got a baptism, not only that but he preformed it. We hope to have a couple more on the 4th.

I really liked going to Conce the other day. I got to see one of my best friends ever, Ricky Del Rio. When you come here with me I'll have you meet him.

After I met up with him all of us trainers went to the mission home. I loved it there. It was the closest I have felt to the temple in a year. Since then we have made our house the closest to a temple that we could get it.

It was cool because before we were assigned our trainers I "guessed" who my Greene would be and the Greeenes of my friends Elder Doxey and Elder Davis. It was divertido. On Tuesday we got home from conce at ten thirty. Late...

I am glad that you love the gospel momma. I love it too! I love it!!!!!

So you should tell me what you learned from Brother Ferrel. How COOL! He really has a very sound understanding of truths. I want to be like that some day.

(Chile just won in SouthAfrica, They are honking their horns!)

hey I got one package. The one with the Libro de Mormón en china mandarina. I really liked that package a lot! a lot!

I want to see pics of the bears!

So I want a few things but send them to me when ever. TAKE YOUR TIME. Save money. not urgent

I need a new journal. Mine is full.

This thing called the Sony dream machine. Its an alarm clock and it plays music and pictures and its just really cool and i want one!!!

and gloves for both hands por fa

and I will include other things I need more in advance.

I am glad that everything is going better at home. Tell me about the things you learn in the scripts!

I am fabuloso!!!! Fantastico! Maravilloso! Bakán!

I miss you too

Elder Morgan

I love you.

Ps. I got your letter. I understand completely. you are right. I realize that

2010-06-14T12:01:00.000-07:00

Mon, Jun 14, 2010

Hey mommma,

I sure do love you. Do you know how much I love my mission? Well I love it. Doubt not; fear not. Go and read Doctrine and Covenants 6 por favor. This week I was really glad that you sent me that letter about visualizing. I have been meditating that ever since. I have learned that every creation, whether our lives or the universe has a spiritual creation. In our lives that spiritual creation happens in our minds and in our hearts. First with our thoughts. We are what we are because we made ourselves that way through our thoughts. If we want to become great we have to think about greatness, virtue, and love; God is all of these. If we think about God we eventually will become like Him. Who do you want to be? What do you desire? remember that there are only two choices out there: light or darkness, happiness or misery. I promise you that if we radically change our thoughts, we will even more radically change our lives to something greater.

When you are done with that, write down who you want to be; what you desire. Plan it. No one ever becomes like God by accident, let alone happy. Plan success. Plan to be a light; to be loving. There is a reason why God planned our happiness, now we must follow His example.

As you read D&C 6 remember what I have said. There is a lot more to say but for another time.

I am really tired right now; exhausted. Last night there was a lightning storm--first one I have seen in Chile. I thought there were bombs out side.

This week was great. We went to La Vega with Juan de Dios and met a bunch of his friends. A lot of them want to get baptized. It's really cool because La Vega is really really small but the people are really warm and loving.

Yesterday we had two baptisms. The second one both me and Elder Thomas had to baptize her because her legs are crippled. We got down in in the water and immersed her twice until we just decided to do something like an Alma baptism and we all three of us went under. It was a lot of fun haha. We hope to get another baptism this Sunday.

It's rained a lot. No floods yet. I did hear that there was one on State Street the other day.

The Soccer thing is really getting on my nerves. I am sick of Wakawaka! haha

So everything is going well here. We are giving time to all of our "Goldens" for right now. Seeds.

Tomorrow I go to Conce to pick up my new greene. I am training! It's going to be great. I hope it all goes well. As for Zone Conference we go to Talca.

The rebuilding is going well. Australia donated a bunch of money and we're levantandonos. Pelluhue is great. We are going to start the branch pretty soon. The investigators just need to go to church. We went the other day and found a whole bunch of cool people. It awesome!

Bikes haha! You crazy! I'd be freezing!!!

You needn't worry. I am safe. There is nothing to worry about that I know of yet. We'll see.

I am sleeping well except for last night. My mattress is ok and I am ok without a sleeping bag. I have heat. I am warm. My every day shoes are doing fine. I'll tell you when > I need some more. the boxes are here in Chile, I'll probably bring em up here with me after I pick up my kid.

I really liked the talk by Channelley. She is a better speaker than I!!! No joke. Remember traditions should be good ones!

I am of good health. I am working out. The weather is good and wet but not too cold. I am sure that you have some water there too.

As for that one about the culture. I think that that's just not going to change. silly people.

My money is good. I talked to the leather guy and he's sending me the stuff.

my ipod is good except the battery lasts short but that's fine no biigie.

I need nothing. Maybe some tapes from you. Pics!

I love you mommy more than you know. Have a good week and remember to choose the right author of you. Two choices only.

See you soon

Elder Morgan

Monday June 7 2010

Herro!

Mi nombre es ELder Brivolqol29!!!

My week was great I could tell that you prayed for me a lot! Gracias.

Thank you for that letter. But I don't know what you mean by my relationship patterns... Am I some kind of weather phenomenon? "today the Christopher system is really hitting Chile¡"

haha

Anyways, we found some great people this week´. I want to tell you a story.

On Wednesday we contacted this not very promising grandmother with no teeth. She said come in and we did. To our surprise we found this new convert that had an unknown address until then. It just so happened that she needed a blessing. So we gave her the blessing and on the way out asked her if she knew anyone that could learn about the Gospel. She said quite casually that her neighbor used to share with missionaries. So we left and didn't think anything of it. When we passed close to there again we decided to contact this referral. A nice señorita came out and told us that missionaries before had come by and that she was getting prepared to be baptized. But then she said that she went to pelluhue for a few months and the missionaries had lost contact with her. So, then she told us that we should come by the next day(Sunday) and teach her. We went with a member and invited her to be baptized the 4th of July! She accepted and furthermore told us to go to her across the street neighbor and to teach her. Immediately after we went and taught her and she also accepted the baptismal invitation! So just for contacting a toothless granny...! For small and simple things... Miracles!

I want to let you know that this week I have had a turning point in my mission. I have become a much more positive person. It is very easy for someone to get weighed down by that cup if one isn't careful. Because of a lot of fasting and praying a change has been wrought in me and in a lot of other people.

Hey! I need a four generation pedigree chart and a line of authority for my priesthood. Talk to the bishop about it!

I will visualize from now on. I will love and be the example. I can tell you, this word is getting worse and worse by the day. These are the last days. Its getting sad. But I suppose that we have to do all we can to be happy and of a good courage. I think that you also studied Joshua 1:6? We neéd to liken that.

I do remember you. I love you. I don't forget you. just on the other side of the world. Not a big deal.

I love you momma

Ill see ya soon bey bey!

David Archuleta Says Hello to Elder Morgan Book Signing

2010-06-08T05:47:00.000-07:00

❤

Mon, May 17, 2010

2010-05-23T20:33:00.000-07:00

Elder Thomas standing by a destroyed burned car!

Well this week was great for me. We have found and are teaching many disoriented, yet searching people. This last week we were planning on going to Pelluhue for the day but when we called to confirm our appointments, most told us no because it was raining (I'd like to see them with snow). So we decided to go see one of our investigators named _ _ _ _ _ . We shared an amazing lesson with her. She is very ready for the Gospel. She told us that she had had a dream about us the night before. She also said that she had the dream right as she ended her prayer in the night, coincidentally asking( there are no coincidences) God if we were telling the truth. So in the dream she found the answer; an answer from God. We also found a family of nine, shared the message of the Restoration, and invited them to be baptized then and there. They all said yes and
subsequently asked what they had to do to prepare. It was amazing. We, trying to follow up on their level of understanding of the Message, asked them a few questions to test their sincerity. The mother asked if there were other things to do after baptism. One of the sons took the Book of Mormon and said "I am going to read this! The whole book!"
It was awesome.

Well, I hope it all goes well for you over there. Some of the things I have learned over these past few days that I have to put first things first in that I have to put the most important things in the highest priority. I have learned what it means to "look beyond the mark." I have learned how to deepen my gospel knowledge, not just widen the breadth. I have learned of the Power of the Atonement and Priesthood and how the two are connected. and more. I love you Take it easy and remember who you are, who you were born to be.

My week was great by the way. I got the packages. I thing that I am good on packages for a while. send the stuff that you already know of. But after that I think that you are prohibited to send me more packages.

Don't worry about me. I know that in the past we had our falling outs but I know that it was my fault, not yours. I was a natural man. We all are. But we have to conquer him through the Holy Atonement of Christ. That's all there is to it. I am imperfect, you are imperfect, let's be friends!

This week we found some fun people. I really like teaching this one Hermana named _ _ _ _. She is going to get baptized in no time. She is my favorita! She told us that she loves it when we share the gospel or when she reads the Book of Mormon. Its cool.

I think that I need some poignant organizational tips. NO FLUFF!!!

We are really helping people here mom, thank you for your prayers and love.

Over these past few weeks I have learned a lot about a few things. I think that I'll share them with you on my tapeys.

I hope that life is fun. If it aint you're not doing it right. I have found that on my mission there are times when really sad, sometimes dangerous things happen. But you have to stop and look at things as they really are for a second. Then you can find some quirky irony to laugh about. SO instead of getting mad or disappointed, just laugh and brush it off. Of course i am not saying that you should cover problems over. I am just saying that you should solve the problem with joy in the Lord. As Elder Wirthlin's mother said to him, "come what may, and love it."

Read the Book of Mormon more. Deepen your knowledge of God. Learn to treasure the Book of Mormon.

This week we also found a family of nine. They all want to get baptized. Cool! I think we just have to help them with the WoW.
So it was kind of funny yesterday because we were supposed to have lunch with this one brother after church. After the meetings he told us not to leave but to stay for a few minutes. So I got preoccupied with other stuff not thinking any thing of him.
After a few minutes Elder Thomas walked up to me with a bag of just-bought-food from a local super market. I asked him, " did he just go buy that?!" Elder Thomas with a twinkle in his eye just said, "no." We laughed the whole day. It was great.
I will study your topic and get back to you next week. Study it all you can!!!

Love you bud. Tell me about the ice skating.!

I love you.

See you soon!

Elder Morgan!!!

2010-05-06T11:30:00.000-07:00

2010-05-03T10:29:00.000-07:00

Sorry I sent you a blank message haha.

Anyways...

Dearest Momaramabama,

Well, this Sunday is the a fun day; we get to talk! But I am afraid that the skype thing has been banned. I can, however send you the number for the LDS chapel at which you may reach me. country code+area code(_ _ _)+_ _ _ _. The time shall be at 3:30 pm my time (1:30 pm your time). I would like if I could speak with everyone in the fam but I don't know if it would be too complicated?...

Anyways, this week was pretty good and also kind of difficult. Good in that we found and help a lot of different people that are going to get baptized shortly. Difficult in that I had some trouble in getting to sleep for the flea problem. I am going after them with fury and vengeance today ( Hell hath no fury as a flea bitten missionary)!

I have to send you some photos of Pelluhue. It's a little beach town in my sector that we started working in. We've found some success there. We want to start a branch there shortly.
I liked the body organ thing haha. How presh;) You are my heart too:)

Tell dad to listen to the talk by Elder Bednar called "Things as they really are." Photo Link

It's funny that you talk to me about listening this week. I am learning many great lessons about listening as of late. I will have to send you a tape about them. I'll write it down so that I don't forget. (I really liked that scripture by the way)

I know that the Gospel is true. This week we found a man named _ _ _ _ '. He has a family and a business and has done very well. But in the last few months he has been separated from his wife and is about to lose his house and business because of his workaholic habits. He was quite depressed when we found him. We shared with him the Gospel and we saw a real twinkle of hope in his countenance.

A few days later we shared wit him again and told him how it was and what he needed to change in his life. All of a sudden his twinkle and hope were lost and the scales replaced themselves over his eyes. He told us that we had to leave because all of a sudden he remembered he had to do something.

I could see past his lie and resolutely looked him in the eye and proceeded to bear my testimony to him of the truth (things as they really are). I told him of the love of our Heavenly Father. I told him he had to change to save his life. He understood, quite clearly in fact. But the scales of his soul hardened themselves and we left without a word.

That, mom, is what breaks my heart. That is the saddest truth that I have discovered here. The truth that some knowingly discard the precious and saving truths of the Gospel and almost literally sell their eternal birthright for a mess of pottage. That breaks my heart. I am sad by that experience and others similar to it. As I am sad But the Lord has comforted me through His Spirit and I know that there will be many that accept the Gospel in this city.
This week there has been success in finding truly elect people that have been humbled by the Lord.

I have learned that that is the key indicator of true election; humility.

I must humble myself and truly be sanctified by the Atonement of Christ.

Part of that is self mastery. This month I am going completely sans milk and carbonated beverages. Its already been tough. But like the Chileanos say "a lo hecho, pecho."

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, even as you desire of me so it shall be unto you; and if you desire, you shall be the means of doing much good in this generation.

Say nothing but repentance unto this generation; keep my commandments, and assist to bring forth my work, according to my commandments, and you shall be blessed." (D&C 6:8-9)

I know that as I desire I will be able to do great good. That is what we need: desires. They are the most basic form of faith. We must evaluate our desires constantly. If we aline our desires to God's, we will find true happiness. A happiness that doesn't come from the outside but an internal, Eternal happiness.

So, come what may, I know that the Lord has it under control. All I need to do is have desires to serve Him with all I have.

I am soooooo excited for this next year. I can't wait to see what the Lord has planned for me.

I love you loads and loads! I can't wait to talk!

Love your son

Elder Morgan

I haven't received the packages yet. I should get them on Wednesday.

I need a couple of things:

a bunch of Spanish Joseph Smith Pamphlets.

printed pictures of the family

A book to help me teach English

A cd called LDS hymns of praise

the Jericho Road fire side cd.

The "Thou Shalt be Nice" talk

other talks and music you would like to include.

love you

Apr 26, 2010

2010-04-26T14:35:00.000-07:00

Hey Mom,

This week was pretty good. We are finally starting to have success. But at the same time opposition. We have to drop a few of out investigators.... too bad....

So all those boxes I haven't gotten yet. I called Hermana Fischbeck and she says that there in the office. But the office is 5 hours away from me so I haven't been there in a few months. I'll get my packages in a few weeks. So Cauquenes Province Is getting back up on its feet. There were a few buses that showed up with a bunch of volunteers that threw up a bunch of prefab homes for the displaced. But hey, I have no idea how you can help. I am at a loss.

I get to call you soon for Mothers day. It's going to be the bomb!

Hey thank you for the rain suit. I am going to need it.!!!!!

Did Fireproof have Spanish sub-titles?
I need flea killer! the d10 doesn't do the job!

Hey I'll send you a bunch of pics next. no te preocupes po loca.

Hump day, we'll burn a shirt or something =} I don't know of anything else. Ideas?

Well every day we go out and knock a million doors and try to find people. Sometimes we find people. I think that you need to hear this on a tape.

I'll send you a tape to answer all of your questions. I only have an hour for internet and I am at 50 min and I have to write the president and Chanelle still.

I love you. There are some stories that I want to tell you but I'll have to tell you in a tape.

Tell everyone I love them.

I need to tell you about my testimony growth too. I will do it!!!!

Love Christopher Elder Morgan Man

Thanks for the Hearts! I am safe!

Figure 1 - Photo at SANT, taken in June of 2008.

Figure 3 - USGS ShakeMap Chile - Mw=8.8 - February 27, 2010. Image USGS.

Figure 4 - Chile quake tsunami spreading across the Pacific. Image NOAA.

Figure 5 - Map showing the location and magnitude of the main event (largest green circle) and aftershocks in the Feb. 26, 2010, Chilean earthquake up until 18:00 UTC Mar 3. The epicenter of the main event is at the location of the largest green circle. Image from UNAVCO's Jules Verne Voyager.

Figure 6a - A preliminary solution for the coseismic displacement field associated with the recent M 8.8 Maule earthquake in south-central Chile, derived by James Foster and Ben Brooks at the University of Hawaii. See the displacements that went into deriving this solution. [click for detailed view of image].

Figure 6b - A zoomed in view of the preliminary solution for the coseismic displacement field associated with the recent M 8.8 Maule earthquake in south-central Chile, derived by James Foster and Ben Brooks at the University of Hawaii. See the displacements that went into deriving this solution. [click for detailed view of image].

Figure 7 - Time vs. the distance from the epicenter as the earthquake was felt around the world. Prepared by Rick Aster from the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology using data from IRIS/USGS. [click for detailed view of image]

Figure 8 - A marine platform on Isla Santa Maria, where the captain of the Beagle FitzRoy documented 8-10 feet of uplift during the 1835 earthquake. The platform may have subsided since then (prior to the Feb. 27th event). Photo by Lisa Ely.

Figure 9 - Coseismic (red) and early postseismic (purple) displacements at two IGS sites closest to the epicenter (star). Postseismic displacements are net displacements between February 27 (UTC, using hours after earthquake) and daily solution for March 9, using rapid orbits (Susan Owen). [click for detailed view of image]

Hey Dad,

Lubbuck? Where in the world is that?

We are getting back to the investigators. Finally having success. There isn't a whole lot of service that we need to do though. Are you going to visit me if you come down here? Strange thought... I hope you do well with Cory. I want to write him, but I don't have his address cause he hasn't written me.

I don't think that we'll ever see rain here. It's like Cali here. In fact we have an ocean town in my sector that we're trying to start a branch in. It looks like it'll be up and running after we get at least ten baptisms there. We have 3 for May there. We are also trying to start another branch in Santa Sofia. We have to find a few more families there first. Its a lot for two missionaries. I think that the President will send a couple more out here.

Hey so Hope you're doing ok.

Love you pops

Elder Morgan

It happened in Santiago He uses his paws like hands...WOW

2010-04-25T23:50:00.000-07:00

December 04, 2008 — Footage from a traffic camera overlooking a busy freeway in Santiago, Chile captured a dog performing a heroic act — pulling an injured friend from oncoming traffic.

The video shows an injured dog lying in the middle of a freeway after being hit by a car, while a rescue dog dodges traffic to run to its side. The rescue dog then drags the severely injured canine across lanes of traffic as cars swerve around it.

No motorists stopped to help either dog, but a highway crew arrives at the end of the video.

The translation of the announcer is as follows:

"These images seen from the surveillance cameras show a very common situation with our overpopulated highways. It is normal for us to see dogs run over. In the video, we can see this dog fighting for his life because he was run over by the vehicle.

"What is very touching is to see the very heroic actions of this other dog who is trying to pull him to the side of the highway. We are going to keep seeing things like this until we find a solution to the dogs living on the streets."

2010-04-19T14:48:00.000-07:00

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There Is Sunshine In My Soul

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Hey Pops,
How are you!?
I got no letter from you but it's ok. I understand that you are busy like me. So the problem with my card is that I wasn't able to activate it until now cause the web site didn't work. But is my pin the same as before?
Anyways my area is sweet. It was the epicenter of the earthquake and most of the houses are on the floor because they were of adobe. But we are working hard and loving the work. We found a Menos active that is amazing. His fam is going to get baptized pretty soon I'm sure.
My comp is great. He is a little traumatized .... but we are going to work hard.
Hey Dada, How are you? I haven't heard that much about you lately... I hope you are going to the Temple a lot. If not I'm going to send you a knuckle sandwich rush delivery!
These past few days I have been strengthening my testimony that when I am not happy here or feel a bit depressed, its cause I am not doing what I should, or I am doing things correctly but I am keeping my heart from God. The Lord says that He demands the our heart. He demands that we cleanse the inner vessel.
I have learned that our belief in God must be something more than some superficial declaration that we shout to the world in sacrament or even in the waters of baptism. Often the reason why we feel empty sometimes is because we have a superficial belief in God.
It must be a deep, sincere belief. Deep to the core.
It is sad but true that most of us deeply don't believe in God. That is true because we have not felt Him there. For deeply we are not clean. And it is written that He doth not dwell in unholy places.
The filling of that hole, that hollow, empty, comes from cleansing the inner vessel. Allowing the power of the Spirit's all encompassing influence into our lives.
That is only possible by the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. He is the only One that can help us shatter the chains that bind us to emptiness.
We all have that hollow space in our souls. It is endless. Bottomless. The only thing that can fill it is that Holy, Sacred, Endless Spirit of God. When we don't fill that hollow soul with that Majestic Spirit, we try to fill it with other things, sometimes bad things, that just cannot satisfy that empty spirit. "Come, my brethren, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters; and he that hath no money, come buy and eat; yea, come buy wine and milk without money and without price.
"Wherefore, do not spend money for that which is of no worth, nor your labor for that which cannot satisfy. Hearken diligently unto me, and remember the words which I have spoken; and come unto the Holy One of Israel, and feast upon that which perisheth not, neither can be corrupted, and let your soul delight in fatness." (2 Nephi 9:50-51)
I know that this is true Dad. I know that we need the Spirit. I know that we need a deep belief in God. The only way to receive these is through cleansing the inner vessel. The only way to do that is through the power of Christ's atonement and sincere repentance. There is no other way.
I love you so much dad. I don't know why I say these things. But I do know that God loves you. So much that you cannot imagine. As your son I ask you to take care of these sacred things. Study them; search them, ponder and apply. As with the Liahona (Alma 37:38-47), the Spirit and Christ must only be looked unto diligently and we may live. Please look and live.
I also ask that you, as Patriarch of this beautiful family, convey these things to all.
Remember I love you. So much.

Elder Christopher Morgan.

Dearest Mommy,

Well this week has been a fantastic learning experience. I sent a letter to dad about it. I ll forward it to you.

Regarding the Bike, I am careful.

I have not gotten the package with the camera yet. But I did receive all others.

Boron? I guess not cause I have not a clue what you're talking about.

Thank you for the compliment. I am keeping a journal. I write every day. I consider myself an average writer. We'll see what I can do with it.

I did not have the chance to go to Pelluhue yet. I want to go, maybe this week.

Thomas is good. He is growing rapidly. He does not have a blog. He has a FB.
So What happened to Cory?! Why haven't I heard about this? Strange... I will write him.

This week was good. Elder Thomas and I got a little cold but were good now. We lost a little work time though. That was lame-o! We did find a Golden family though. I think that they're going to get baptized soon. The father is very very inquisitive and searching. Ready. His name is Claudio.

Thats about it though for this week. Kind of Boring. I guess Its hard to top a letter about an 8.8 mega earthquake. Hopefully I won't have to top that letter.

I am praying for you. I hope you are searching the scriptures and going to the Temple and doing the family home evening and praying. Tell me if you are and the results!

Read the letter to dad.

love you sooooo0oooo much!

Elder Morgan

Christopher Daniel Morgan

Chanelle,
You are the best bud in the World!

So I was sick to this week. But I had to work anyways. We don't have days off. I like it better that way; I go nuts not doing anything. I only have so long to be a authorized representative of Jesus Christ.

Maybe you should just burn the house down...... Haha? I haven't been to Dichato. I hear it looks better though. I want to go to Pelluhue this week though.

I am going to come home and we can show each other the skills that we have both acquired while Ive been here in this land.

Hump day?! I don't want to think about it. haha. So I would like that one talk about the pecking order. You know it? Some Slacks. One of those simple black backpacks like the one where it has two strings for the straps... you know what I 'm talking about?

All the other stuff that I haven't had in forever. Like Swweettomatos! haha. I wish...

and maybe some ldsmusic.? Whatever. William Joseph? Kurt Bester? and other stuff that I can't think of.

I am moving into heaven..........:=)

Hey who is all on missions from our ward or going on missions soon? Ryan H????
So I learned a lot from a talk called the inexhaustible gospel by Elder Maxwell. Listen to it.

I love you. Have a good week this week bucky!!!

I need urgently a few copies of the Peacegiver in Spanish. Thank You.

Love you

Elder Morgan

Priesthood Session

2010-04-17T10:13:00.000-07:00

David L. Beck - Priesthood Session

President Thomas S. Monson - Priesthood Session

President Henry B. Eyring - Priesthood Session

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf - Priesthood Session

Elder Ronald A. Rasband - Priesthood Session

Elder Dallin H. Oaks - Priesthood Session

Concepcion Mission

2010-04-13T12:46:00.000-07:00

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Good Morning StarShine!

The Earth Says Hello

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Dear Momma,

I had a fantastic week this week. We found a lot of families to teach. Mainly the Pérez family. We found them my second day here by asking them if they needed help demolishing their house. They accepted and now they are progressing very well. They already went to church twice and the son, Felipe, went to all the sessions in Conference. Looks like they'll get baptized in mayo or sooner hopefully. The only problem is that its hard for them to focus because their temporary home is very cramped. We are teaching another family, the Hernandez's. Her two children want to get baptized. We want to help.

The feelings that I have about the earthquake are amazing. I believe that I have been one of the truly blessed to be able to go through this time. Every day I find new truths about life and God's Plan for me. I hope you are happy for me. I really thought that I sent you a couple of really long letters last week...Did you get them?

Anyways I love it here in Cauquenes. The area is huge. We have bikes which make it better. I only wish you could see all that I am learning from this adversity.

The other day I read a scripture in Joshua 3. It says that we should sanctify ourselves because the Lord will make wonders among us on the morrow. I truly believe with my perspective that I have now that the Lord caused this earthquake to show us that he is pleased with what work is being done. Ever since then I have felt the healing power of the Atonement in my own life and in the lives of everyone else that wants. The Spirit has given us the proper perspective of this situation and we can see things as they really are.

My companion and I are working really hard. Last week we walked to this little farm town just outside the city. The whole way I was walking I asked myself, "why in the world are we coming out here?" It was made self evident when we talked to the first person there. Her name was Maria. She was middle aged and, it seemed, had been isolated from the civilized world for a while. As we un folded the Gospel Plan of our Heavenly Father to her, her interest grew and grew as she started hearing and feeling what we we saying. It was great. We gave her a Book of Mormon and told her that we were going to come back. I hope it goes well! In that little town I got the impression that we should start a branch there. We have a lot of work to do.

Next week we want to go help in Pelluhue. Its was devastated pretty hard.

I, by the way, kind of forgot it was my b-day. But I figured it out and we made a cake and me and Elder Thomas had a good time. I loved your cards!

So nothing happened to my cheek I just ripped a mole off my face and had to band aid it.

So 690 million peso is a lot a lot a lot. I can't translate it but its a lot. 500 pesos is a dollar. I am too tired to do the math...=)

Sooo by the way you should go to the temple. It will be awesome! I miss the temple so.

Hey how is dad? what is his deal? Did you do anything for his bday?

Sooo what is going on with you? I hope you are ok. If you need extra strength, go to the temple. Please go for me. Tell me how you are. I know that I am not the best writer in the world but just know that I try. I pray that you' and the fam will be ok.

Your answers are in the Scriptures .

I love you more,

Elder Morgan
PS
I am protected by the Lord. Read 3 Nephi 12-14 this week. Assist the temple! Are you obedient to that command!? Go! That is what you can do to help me. Also, study the truth talk. Read the Peace Giver! These are all commandments. I give them to you for your good. I just want you to know that I am ok. Honestly. Anyway I love it here in Cauquenes. The area is huge.

I love you. I miss you. Tell Dad happy b day from me.

••.¸¸¸.·´¯`·.¸·ஐ¸.••.¸ஐ¸.,··...,·ஐ¸.•**•.

Hey Chanelle,
How are you doing? I am speaking very strangely because the two Elders from Estacion are looking at what I am writing. Anyways, this week was pretty good. We are finally starting to work here. Oh, tell mom I forgot to write about my compy. Anyways he is pretttty cool. He was kind of traumatized from the last 3 months. Now he says that he has never worked harder. Silly missionaries. We found this one family, I will have to make a tape to tell you about them. Please convey to all how much I love them.
So I got all of the boxes except the camera/kneaderrs box. I should get It tomorroy cause I have interviews with the President. I have to take an hour long bus ride from here to Parral. But I have to do that four times this week because that is where we have to go for stake conference this week end.
The other things I need is not really anything except some socks, root beer concentrate, and the talks from byu tv that you guys see and like. I get them from conce BTW.
So Its great that Ginger is having a boy. Another missionary! (possible Prophet) =) I hope you like skating. I know that you are the bomb at that. Hey! I think that I will buy a vacation home with you and your family some day.
So I have a goal. I have been getting up every day at 6:30 working out and my goal is to be able to do a back bend. Oh!
Pray buddy. You should read the Peace giver as a family!

I love you so mux! You are the best. Stay positive and happy. Be the best you can be and remember that God is you Father and He loves you. Go out and Conquer yourself this week.

Elder Bacán Morgan

April 5, 2010

2010-04-05T12:01:00.000-07:00

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵Ʒ¸¸.·´¯`·.¸·ஐ¸.•**•.¸

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵Ʒ·¸.,··..¸.,·ஐ¸.••.¸Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵Ʒ Happy Birthday To You Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵Ʒ¸¸.·´¯`·.¸·ஐ¸.••.¸Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵Ʒ

·¸.,··..¸.,·ஐ¸.•**•.¸Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵Ʒ

Hey Momma,

I loved Easter! And in especial Conference. I loved all of it. It really strengthened my Testimonio of the Restored Gospel and the Atonement. I want to stand taller too. I want to give my whole heart to the Lord. Over the past few weeks I have learned that anything short of giving my whole heart to the Lord is enough. I have to be changed by Him and reconciled to Him through the Atonement of His Son. I have to be taller.

Hey I would like some thermals. That wouldn't be bad. White please.

I watched the conference in our chapel. I am downloading it onto the ipod right now. I love the word of God and it's power. I have learned that we must not "deny the power thereof" by only hearing the word and not doing. I have to do!

I want to come home changed mom. I want to come home with the image of the Savior engraven in my countenance. I want to have a true change of heart. and above all I want to learn how to keep loving.

I can bear my testimony to you that I know that I am in the perfect mission for me. No other time nor place would have suited. I was called hear by revelation. I am here to conquer myself and be born of God. Hopefully I can gain some few souls for the Lord while I am here. That is our purpose. Lift up your heart and rejoice that these trials and difficulties are in the Plan of the Most High and that they will be for my good and for the good of all mankind if he so chooses. I want to be born again, every day. I don't want to worry about all the stupid little problems I have, when my largest problem is my heart staying open.

I received all of the packages except the one with the camera. Thank you so much. I love it when you send me things. Most of all because I picture you and Chanelly looking for all the thingys. Thank you! I gave the socks to Elder Findlay. Send more...?

I love you so much. I am learning a lot. I am becoming a disciple of Christ. Heart and soul. I loved this test of the terremoto. That may sound weird, but >I really did. I am going to be thankful for it forever. You will be too.

I will see you soon.

With Eternal love.

Elder Morgan

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵Ʒ¸¸.·´¯`·.¸·ஐ¸.•**•.¸

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵Ʒ·¸.,··..¸.,·ஐ¸.••.¸Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵Ʒ Happy Birthday To You Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵Ʒ¸¸.·´¯`·.¸·ஐ¸.••.¸Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵Ʒ

·¸.,··..¸.,·ஐ¸.•**•.¸Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵Ʒ

Hey Chanelly,

I am doing great! Thank you for remembering my birthday. It's A good day:) I am staying out of trouble (or rather doing the best I can).
My new comps name is Elder Thomas. He is cool. We work great together. And, hey, I am patient. I learned that in priesthood meeting. That was a good talk.

So there was another earthquake... eh? The end is near. That thought makes me so humble and excited! I am going to love the Celestial Earth.

There was a replica this morning. It happened while I was reading with my comp. We didn't even flinch. We are used to the earth shakin.

Yesterday I ate a lot of chocolate and read about the resurrection (hope its spelled that way in English!) and watched conference! Awesome. My favorite talk was elder Uchtdorfs talk the Sunday morning session.

It makes me so happy to talk to you. I am glad that you are ice skating. "do you even care?" haha, that made me sad and laugh at the same time. you are awesome!

I lub you, Study the Atonement a lot, a lot a lot. I know that It's real because I have felt its power. I have seen it!

Always and forever =)
Elder Morgan

Christopher Morgan Speech Eagle Scout Award Post Scoutmaster Warlough Crane

2010-04-04T15:36:00.000-07:00

2010-04-03T09:15:00.000-07:00

April 2010 General Conference

The Saturday morning session of general conference is now in progress. Live audio and video streams will be available from the broadcast page. You can also find activities for children to help them benefit more from conference.

We invite you to explore our new General Conference beta page, where you will also be able to watch the video stream. Also, help us test a new video player in English or Spanish.

2010-04-02T13:11:00.000-07:00

Hey Mom,

First off thank you for everything that you are doing. I really appreciate it. It is so great to know the family supporting me.

Second off, you sent me a lot of questions, maybe you could spread out the questions so that I don't get hit by a question tsunami. I am short on time.

This week I was transferred to Cauquenes. Pelluhue and Curanipe are in my sector too (the two cities most affected by the earthquake).

I am now with Elder Thomas. He is ready to work. The sector is fresh and ready to be planted. Meaning that I have hardly any one to teach yet!

I am in a branch now of about 40-50 active members. It has a lot of potential. Walking through the city there is a lot of destruction because of the proximity to the epicenter and because the houses are made from adobe. The people are really downtrodden and humbled.

I really miss Conce a lot. It was like my home, but now I will make Cauquenes my new home.

Remember to stay close to the Lord through the Scriptures.

I will try to answer your questions in the next email. I love you. I'll write again.

Elder Morgan

2010-03-22T16:02:00.001-07:00

Hey Mom,
I am really sorry and I know that the whole family deserves a huge letter from me this week, but today I am really in a huge hurry because tomorrow they are sending me to a city called Cauquenes tomorrow. It is the most destroyed by the earthquake. It by the epicenter. I am preparing. Now I have to go say good bye to every one. I am doing great. I got two packages from Renee and three from you. I love you. I will tell you about it all in a tape.
I am sorry.

Elder Morgan

Earthquake Location

Magnitude 8.8 OFFSHORE MAULE, CHILE
Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 06:34:14 UTC

CLICK FULLSCREEN Bio Bio, Concepcion Chile

2010-03-22T14:38:00.001-07:00

Bio Bio, Concepcion Chile

"The Protections Of Angels" Chilean Missionaries Tell Their Story!!!

2010-03-16T10:23:00.000-07:00

It was 7:30 a.m. on February 27th when I was awakened by my husband, who said, “There has been an earthquake in Chile.” I jumped out of bed and ran to turn on the television to CNN. My husband, three daughters and I stood in disbelief.

The pictures of the earthquake were devastating and my heart sank in deep despair. My son Jacob arrived in Chile Concepcion South Mission on January 18th and was living in the city of Camilo. The first thing I did was run upstairs to call the mission office but there was no answer. Then I sent an email to the mission president’s wife to see if she knew the whereabouts of my son.

The feeling of helplessness filled my whole body as I realized there was nothing I could do for my son but pray. So as a family, we got down on our knees in prayer to ask our Heavenly Father to protect our son, the missionaries and all the people in Chile. After the prayer there was warmth that filled the entire room. We all felt at peace and were comforted by the Spirit that Jake was safe. We identified that feeling to our daughters and told them that the Holy Ghost was sending us a message of comfort.

We had many calls that day, family, friends and neighbors all expressing their concern for our son’s welfare. Our response was pretty much the same, and they were often surprised that we weren’t hysterical. I tried to explain to them that we could not find the peace and knowledge from the world. We had to go to a greater source, our Heavenly Father, who is all knowing and could give us the answers we needed. Our knowledge was so sure, so real, and when I felt myself doubting that comforting feeling filled my whole body.

It wasn’t until Tuesday morning I received a phone call from my son. He could only talk for a moment, but he said, “Mom, I am doing really well. I have food to eat, water to drink and a safe place to lay my head.” An overwhelming feeling of gratitude towards my Heavenly Father filled my soul.

This I do know, that Heavenly Father has helped my husband and I prepare our son his whole life to serve a mission. He provided the way for our son, by protecting him so he could fulfill his stewardship as a missionary.

My son is on his mission to Chile because he was called to be there. His talents, qualities and abilities are needed right now to help the people of Chile. This experience has reminded me of the prophet Nephi who said, “ I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them (Nephi 3:7).”

I am but one of many parents who have missionaries in Chile and it has been my opportunity to talk to some amazing parents who have shared the stories of their missionaries on the website ldsmissionarymoms.com. Here are some of their missionaries experiences:

Elder Jake Hillman (Chile, Concepcion South Mission): “We are…delivering food from the Church, packing our backpacks full of food and going around the city. We will be delivering food and cleaning up for a few weeks.”

Elder Jonathon Welling (Chile, Rancauga Mission): “We got back to Chepica on Tuesday and handed out clothes and food. Since the Catholics lost their church, they were using our church to help their congregation, many of whom have lost everything. I am perfectly safe and happy and hopefully many people can find their Heavenly Father though this disaster.”

Elder Riley Harper (Chile, Concepcion South Mission): “A few months before the quake we had a mission meeting on emergency preparedness and President Swenson outlined an emergency plan which included where the missionaries should meet up in the event of an emergency. He instructed them specifically on what to do in the event of an earthquake. The First Presidency sent the missionaries water bottles with a built-in water filtration system and water filtering tablets. The water bottles have been a life saver and all the missionaries are using them.”

Elder Spencer Wilhelm and Elder Kevin Michels (Concepcion, Chile): “Right after the earthquake, we found a woman in the hallway, hysterically screaming and in need of help. In her apartment we found her husband who had been paralyzed from a car accident last year from the neck down. So we carried him down 5 flights of stairs. We got them away from the building then went back up for his medicine, some food for that family, our keys and cell phone.”

Elder Blake McDonald (Chile, Concepcion mission): “We all (six missionaries) went to higher ground and saw the sea "go out" and then come back like "none other". There were 30-50 feet surges of water. We saw all sorts of crazy stuff like houses, boats, cars floating all over the place and houses that had floated out to sea and the ocean was making incredible noises. I am not hurt in anyway and our apartment was not damaged. I did not lose any of my belongings.”

Elder Logan Law (Chile, Concepcion Mission): “Sunday morning, we entered the chapel, and tried to organize things. I felt revelation from Heavenly Father which we needed again in that time; then I knew what we needed to do. The Spirit was such a great help as it enlightened my mind to the things that we should do. What a great blessing it was. We stayed in the chapel, and later that night... saw what a tremendous blessing it was to be protected in the church as thousands of people went to the streets to loot all the stores. It was such an awful sight. But really we could feel the protection of angels. We knew that no harm would come to us.”

Elder Robert Carroll (Santiago East Mission): “The power was out so Church services were held by the dim light coming in from the windows. The Relief Society in our ward held two service projects this week making blankets to send to those affected in southern Chile. The bishop of our ward left his damaged home only hours after the earthquake hit to check on active and inactive members of our ward. He even visited our investigator who has a baptismal date for this coming Sunday. The homes of two member families are badly damaged and so they slept in the chapel for a night or two.”

Elder Taylor Pulver – (Chile Concepcion mission): “The other night, (Saturday evening, a week after the quake) our zone had a special meeting with the area presidency of Chile, Pres. Amado and Elder Corbridge and their wives. It was one of the most powerful moments of my life! I’ve got pages about it in my journal to write to you about later. Basically they talked about love and giving service and how we need to remember that we are still missionaries. Pres. Amado talked about how this is a great opportunity to help the people, not just physically, but spiritually. I have learned lessons that I didn’t even know existed. During the earthquake, I have never felt so close to death and a number of people and thoughts ran through my mind in that moment of apparent doom. One of those thoughts was my family and what would happen to them if I died. I thought of friends and people who I have made promises to and bonds with and the fear of losing those bonds in an instant. I wondered what it would feel like to be crushed underneath a concrete building. It was a terrifying experience. But then I thought of prayer...so I made the quickest most important prayer of my life and then was when I went into action. I suddenly had a firm idea of exactly what I needed to do...protect myself, help my companion and when possible, leave the building as fast as I could...and we did just that. I remember that scripture in Mark saying that rain and sun falls on all of us. No one was spared from the earthquake, but some were more prepared...physically and spiritually. I urge you all to make sure that you are prepared for anything that may come...because something always comes your way. Be prepared physically and spiritually.”

Elder Derrick Zamora-Orozco, (Chile Rancagua Mission): "As I made my way to our front window I remember the feeling very clearly... the same feeling I had when I was 5 years old in 1989 during the Loma Prieta earthquake in San Francisco. It was then that I got a really frightening image of what to expect when I looked out the window!! As I gazed out over our sector, the entire community was pitch dark, beautifully lit by the full moon, it was eerily quiet. There was a big cloud of dust settling over La Pintana. Much to my surprise I did not see any fully collapsed houses, no fires that broke out, nor did I hear people freaking out in the streets. My heart settled a bit. I went down stairs [and] instructed the other elders to get dressed because we were going to go out and check on members in our area or to see if anybody needed help. They all got dressed, and I ran upstairs to get my little blue led flashlight, (Thanks Mom!!!) Before we departed we knelt and the four of us prayed."

Elder Christopher Morgan, (Concepcion Chile Mission) In the past few days I have learned a lot about God's plan for me and the plan for all of us. These really are the last days. That was a confirmation when I woke up and 3:34 in the morning last Saturday. Slowly the earth shook, and slowly I realized that I was experiencing an earthquake. Then the earth shook more violently. And it didn't stop, it seemed, never. Even now. After that came the tsunami and the looting and the fires and, etc.. A lot. During this time of trial and chaos, I have observed many foundations fall, literally and spiritually speaking.

Many people have found themselves asking , "Where is my strength?" I've lost my house, my work also doesn't exist, I have no computer, no TV. “Where am I?" they ask. More precisely they ask. "Who am I?" Seeing this, I am grateful to know that I, nor have they, been left alone in this very traumatic experience. I have had the Lord's help every step of the way. Now they have their rhetorical walls broken down so that they can also have this help as well. I have learned more than anything that if you are prepared you shall not fear. I have seen that a people full of fear will do almost anything to survive. If we prepare spiritually by living the Gospel and by keeping a year's supply of food storage we shall not fear. Ever. I have a feeling that this is just the beginning. We must prepare.

From this moment on we must decide whom we will serve. This earthquake has divided this people in two. The line is more apparent between good and evil. As for me, I chose to serve Jesus Christ. I believe that that has been and will be the greatest decision I make. I have seen the alternative and it is nothing. I am His disciple. I am safe and well, I we are going to get there. I know it. Pray until your knees hurt.
Elder Morgan

Terremoto 8.8 aftermath March 15, 2010

2010-03-15T11:27:00.000-07:00

Dear Family,

I am having the greatest, hardest time of my life here in Chile. Concepcion is better. It has really calmed down since the quakes and looting. Almost everything is back to normal. Water and power is back. The stores are open too. We are teaching more than doing service now. There is still a curfew. They changed it on Thursday from 11pm to 6 am. Last night there was a scare because there was a nation wide power glitch where it just turned off in the whole country. Rumors quickly spread that it was government doing because they knew that another earthquake was coming. False. We woke and there was power and no earthquake. There were tremors like every day, but it was normal. Renee said that you told her that I talked and sang in church yesterday. Who told you that? Did I? how strange...
I have no news any of those missionaries all I know is that they are ok. Nothing else.

Here is the 8.8 story. I think that I can finally tell it because my mental capabilities aren't working off of adrenaline anymore.
Anyways...
When I normally sleep I toss and turn a lot. On the 27th of February I was tossed and turned more than I could have imagined.
At first I just thought that it was raining because I could here things hitting the roof but I didn't know what. Then I heard the fridge fall over and the glass in the microwave shatter. I hopped out of bed not knowing what was going on. I, then gripping the wall for balance, found shelter under the door frame. Seeing that Elder Chapman was still asleep, I yelled "earthquake! earthquake! EARTHQUAKE!" I don't know what he was thinking because he told me, "hey, quiet, I'm sleeping," and closed his eyes. Then realizing what was going on jumped out of bed and put his shoes on. We ran out of the house fast. Minutes passed and the shaking didn't stop. I was scared that the giant billboard right above the house was going to fall. It was shaking violently.
All of a sudden we saw the pandemonium brake out as our neighbors started yelling "tsunami! tsunami!" Thinking only about how close we lived to the river we thought that it was possible that a tsunami could reach us. As we ran for about twenty minutes towards the hill in our sector, the shaking continued at a weakened, but bone rattling strength.
Then we stooped and prayed, the whole while trying to find balance as the earth continued it's angry awake. The feeling was unmistakable that we should go back and help people. We put on jackets and went around asking people if they needed help. We could see that most houses we intact outwardly but that the insides had been close to destroyed. We found people very shaken up emotionally but mostly ok physically. We found many families in great need of comfort as they yelled, "my mother!" or "my son, he lives next on the beach in Penco!" another cried. Wanted to calm them, we decided to sing hymns. Even as the tremors continued a calming Spirit came and we felt strengthened.
About an hour after the quake we heard many explosions. Later we found that a chemical lab had exploded and that a bridge next to our sectors had fallen and that the cars had on it had also exploded.
Later, finding that everyone was ok, investigators and members, we tried to call our leaders in vane being that all communication was down. As the sun rose we saw the real damage as we saw that many older homes had collapsed. We spent that day calming people and trying to clear the rubble.
We found sanctuary that day with the Olivas.
The next day I was able to talk to you mom.
At about 9 am, a want-to-be-army dude came and warned us that we needed to find food for the next months because all supermarkets would be closed. He said that one close to us was "gifting" food and that we had to get there before it was closed. When we went we found that the "gifting" was actually a dangerous looting situation with people stealing mattresses, plasma screen TVs, and a lot of alcohol, a little food. We left quickly as we saw that the walls were about to collapse on the looters. About 10 died. Later we went downtown and saw that many very tall buildings had toppled. The worst was an apartment building. Other buildings we passed looked like they were about to collapse. Finally we found the office. The office workers were sleeping as we entered. We saw that the wall had many cracks and fissures. We received instructions that we should save water and food and help as many people as possible.
For the next few days we saw many other buildings topple as the tremors hit. We also saw the worst damage of the looting as hundreds died burning in buildings they were looting. From 6pm to 12 the next day we were to stay in the house. At night we were woken up by many fire fights right outside our house between the looters and the military. A few days after we went to Talcahuano to see if we could help. Some of the worst damage we saw was in Talcahuano. Many boats had been lifted to land. It was a strange sight to see huge navy boats in the middle of the street.
The next day we went to San Pedro, but we had to leave quickly as we saw that the escaped prisoners and the looters we looting everything and starting fires without any resistance of the military of police.
Events such as these continued for many days all the while we were locked in the Oliva's home.
Of course it was difficult and very stressing. But understand that I have seen this earthquake as a great blessing. I feel so much stronger because of it. I have seen that many people have been humbled because of it. One of these is Alex, the 19 year-old son of one of my converts, he was a good kid before but now he is ready now for the healing power of the Atonement. He wants to serve a mission too. If that is the only miracle of this, it was worth it. But there have been many others too.
As we see many people choose Christ, others have lost their faith. Last Sunday and yesterday there were dissension and open apostasy. At the same time I have felt that these Sacrament meetings have been the most edifying for me.
We now see that it is true that in the Last Days that the wicked will get more wicked and the righteous more righteous.
I have learned so much from this experience. Truths that one can only learn by experience.
Since last week I have moved back to our own house. It is a two floor home the only con is that there is no oven. The address is in Lorenzo Arenas, Concepcion Chile.
My comps name is Zachary Chapman. He is a cool kid since the earthquake, it'll be ok. He's from Alpine Utah
I have found that I need as many copies as possible of the PeaceGiver in Spanish. Also more works pants and shorts and shirts.
I believe that another wonderful thing would be some chocolate . I haven't gotten any packages yet.
It is so good to hear that all of you are helping so much. Thank you. I think that the best thing to do is to send the things that you have already gotten and pray for us. Also, you can help the missionaries that have lost everything by either sending things or by depositing in my account. Either way is helpful.
Today I read Helaman 5. It was very good. Read it. That's how I feel.
I love you all, thank you for all of you letters and everything. I hope I have answered all of your questions. if not, next time.

Love you

Elder Christopher Morgan

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Earthquake in Chile

At 3:34 am local time, today, February 27th, a devastating magnitude 8.8 earthquake struck Chile, one of the strongest earthquakes ever recorded. According to Chilean authorities, over 400 people are now known to have been killed. The earthquake also triggered a Tsunami which is right now propagating across the Pacific Ocean, due to arrive in Hawaii in hours (around 11:00 am local time). The severity of the Tsunami is still not known, but alerts are being issued across the Pacific. (Entry updated four times, now 45 photos total)

Cars lie overturned after the highway they were travelling on was destroyed in an earthquake in Santiago February 27, 2010. (REUTERS/Marco Fredes)

A resident of Talca, Chile, walks amid debris of a destroyed house after a powerful earthquake struck the country early Saturday, Feb. 27, 2010. (AP Photo/Roberto Candia) #

Warning:
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The walls and aisles of a pharmacy in Vina del Mar are seen destroyed after a huge 8.8-magnitude earthquake rocked Chile early on February 27, 2010. The massive quake plunged much of the Chilean capital, Santiago, into darkness as it snapped power lines and severed communications, and AFP journalists spoke of walls and masonry collapsing. People in pajamas fled onto the streets. (MARTIN BERNETTI/AFP/Getty Images) #

People walk along a highway with a collapsed bridge in the background in the outskirts of Santiago after a huge 8.8-magnitude earthquake rocked Chile early on February 27, 2010. (MARTIN BERNETTI/AFP/Getty Images) #

A police officer controls the traffic aside of an elevated highway that collapsed in Santiago following a powerful earthquake in central Chile, Saturday, Feb. 27, 2010. (AP Photo/David Lillo) #

Smoke from a burning building fills the sky in the outskirts of Santiago after a huge 8.8-magnitude earthquake rocked Chile on February 27, 2010. (MARTIN BERNETTI/AFP/Getty Images) #

A resident takes photos of a building damaged in Talca, Chile, Saturday, Feb. 27, 2010. (AP Photo/Sebastian Martinez) #

With a computer graphic showing the possible path of tsunami waves from an earthquake in Chile, Dr. Charles McCreery speaks on the phone at the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, Saturday, Feb. 27, 2010 in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. The State of Hawaii is under a tsunami warning after an 8.8 magnitude earthquake rattled Chile today. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia) #

Warning:
This image contains graphic
or objectionable content

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The walls of a hotel in Vina del Mar are seen destroyed after a huge 8.8-magnitude earthquake rocked Chile on February 27, 2010. (MARTIN BERNETTI/AFP/Getty Images) #

A woman sits in front a quake-damaged house in Talca, Chile, after a 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck the country early Saturday, Feb. 27, 2010. (AP Photo/Sebastian Martinez) #

Rescue workers search for victims and survivors after an apartment complex collapsed during an earthquake in Concepcion some 100 km (62 miles) south of the epicenter, February 27, 2010. (REUTERS/Jose Luis Saavedra) #

A survivor is lowered by a cable as rescue workers search for victims after an apartment complex collapsed during an earthquake in Concepcion, Chile on February 27, 2010. (REUTERS/Jose Luis Saavedra) #

A man moves his belongings inside his home destroyed in an earthquake in Valparaiso February 27, 2010. (REUTERS/Eliseo Fernandez) #

A man walks past a wrecked church in Santiago, Chile on February 27, 2010. (MARTIN BERNETTI/AFP/Getty Images) #

People observe a highway and cars destroyed by an earthquake in Concepcion, Chile on February 27, 2010. (REUTERS/Jose Luis Saavedra) #

Cyclists observe a bridge that collapsed in an earthquake in Concepcion, Chileon February 27, 2010. (REUTERS/Jose Luis Saavedra) #

1st Update, 1:35 pm Eastern Time

Photograph taken this morning of Concepcion, Chile by astronaut Soichi Noguchi, aboard the International Space Station: "Concepcion, Chile. Mega earthquake (M8.3) hit this city this morning. Photo taken a few hours ago. We pray for you." On TwitPic (Shoichi Noguchi) #

Vehicles sit on a destroyed motorway in Santiago following a powerful earthquake in southern Chile, Saturday, Feb. 27, 2010. (AP Photo/Carlos Espinoza) #

An overturned vehicle sits amidst rubble of a collapsed elevated highway in Santiago, Saturday, Feb. 27, 2010. A powerful earthquake struck central Chile early Saturday. (AP Photo/Carlos Espinoza) #

Residents look at a collapsed building in Concepcion, Chile, Saturday Feb. 27, 2010 after an 8.8-magnitude struck central Chile. The epicenter was 70 miles (115 kilometers) from Concepcion, Chile's second-largest city.(AP Photo) #

A man carries a child next to a damaged building in Concepcion, Chile, Saturday Feb. 27, 2010 after an 8.8-magnitude struck central Chile. (AP Photo) #

A resident walks along a damaged street in Talca, Chile, Saturday, Feb. 27, 2010, after a powerful earthquake struck central Chile. (AP Photo/Roberto Candia) #

2nd Update, 4:30 pm Eastern Time

An apartment block leans over after an earthquake in Santiago February 27, 2010.(REUTERS/Marco Fredes) #

An immigrant from Peru steps over debris after a major earthquake destroyed homes along Santo Domingo Street in Santiago February 27, 2010. (REUTERS/Marco Fredes) #

A man looks at the damage to the Accademy of Fine Arts building in Santiago after a huge 8.8-magnitude earthquake rocked Chile early morning killing at least 147 people, on February 27, 2010. (CLAUDIO SANTANA/AFP/Getty Images) #

A man rides his bicycle past a destroyed building in Concepcion, Chile, Saturday Feb. 27, 2010 after an 8.8-magnitude struck central Chile. The epicenter was 70 miles (115 kilometers) from Concepcion, Chile's second-largest city. (AP Photo) #

A man looks at rubble in Valparaiso, Chile, after a huge 8.8-magnitude earthquake rocked the country early morning killing at least 147 people, on February 27, 2010. (JORGE AMENGUAL/AFP/Getty Images) #

3rd Update, 6:15 pm Eastern Time

A destroyed bridge is seen next to Talca some 300 km (186 miles) south of Santiago February 27, 2010. (REUTERS/Victor Ruiz Caballero) #

A man carries a religious icon after an earthquake in Santiago February 27, 2010. (REUTERS/Sebastian Escobar) #

Women cry next to a destroyed building in Talca, Chile on February 27, 2010. (REUTERS/Victor Ruiz Caballero) #

Fishing boats washed up by a wave generated by an earthquake are seen in Talcahuano Port, a city just outside Concepcion, Chile on February 27, 2010. (REUTERS/Jose Luis Saavedra) #

Children walk past shipping containers washed up by a wave caused by an earthquake in Talcahuano Port, a city just outside Concepcion, Chile on February 27, 2010. (REUTERS/Jose Luis Saavedra) #

A policeman looks at cars washed against an apartment building by a wave generated by an earthquake in Talcahuano Port, near Concepcion, Chile on February 27, 2010. (REUTERS/Jose Luis Saavedra) #

4th (and final) Update, 12:15 pm Eastern Time, 2/28

Chile's President Michelle Bachelet looks at collapsed houses after an earthquake in Concepcion, Chile, Saturday, Feb. 27, 2010. (AP Photo/Chile Presidency) #

A house lies destroyed by a major earthquake in Pelluhue February 27, 2010. (REUTERS/Ivan Alvarado) #

Residents sleep in their cars, some because their homes are damaged and others for fear of aftershocks, after an earthquake in Concepcion February 28, 2010. (REUTERS/Jose Luis Saavedra) #

A car is seen submerged in a flooded area due to a tsunami in Talcahuano the day after a huge 8.8-magnitude earthquake rocked Chile early morning killing at least 300 people, on February 28, 2010. The South American nation has been hit by numerous aftershocks, some reaching over 6 points on the Richter scale, as well as heavy damages in coastal towns resulting from subsequent tsunamis. (MARTIN BERNETTI/AFP/Getty Images) #

A flooded area is seen after an earthquake in Pelluhue, some 322 kms, about 200 miles, southwest of Santiago, Sunday, Feb. 28, 2010. (AP Photo/Roberto Candia) #

People walk along the shore after an earthquake in Pelluhue, some 322 kms, about 200 miles, southwest of Santiago, Sunday, Feb. 28, 2010. (AP Photo/Roberto Candia) #

Residents try to force their way into a supermarket to buy food and essentials as police try to keep order after an earthquake in Concepcion February 28, 2010. (REUTERS/Jose Luis Saavedra) #

Residents loot a supermarket after an earthquake in Concepcion February 28, 2010. Chilean rescuers used shovels and sledgehammers on Sunday to find survivors of a huge earthquake in Chile that unleashed a Pacific tsunami and triggered looting by desperate and hungry residents. (REUTERS/Jose Luis Saavedra) #

A man holds up a Chilean flag in a flooded area after an earthquake in Pelluhue, some 322 kms, about 200 miles, southwest of Santiago, Sunday, Feb. 28, 2010. (AP Photo/Roberto Candia) #

Relatives of victims of an earthquake cry outside a destroyed building in Concepcion, Sunday, Feb. 28, 2010. (AP Photo/ Aliosha Marquez) #

2010-03-12T13:44:00.001-08:00

Massive earthquake strikes

Chile from Esteban Méndez on Vimeo.

03 tsunami dichato 2010 from hakon on Vimeo.

Written Pre Terremoto

2010-03-10T11:40:00.000-08:00

17/02/10
Dear Momma,

Hey how are you? I am fantastic! I am sorry I am so horrible at writing hand written letters. I will be better, I promise.
I can tell you Mom, my mission is the best thing that I have ever done. I have grown up so much here - If you could only see me.
The Lord God has a great plan for me. I have just barely started to notice that reading from the scriptures and more than anything, reading from my Patriarchal Blessing. I have learned more about Gods great Plan of Happiness for me, and thus for the rest of the world. Learning this has really changed my perspective on the world and people.
Because I am living somewhat righteously, I am being changed by it.
I have found that before this life we were great followers of Jehovah, the first born Spirit Son. We learned and progressed in the presence of our Heavenly Father. One day He called you and I and our family to a council where we learned about a plan that included a way to become like our Heavenly Father. Lucifer, one of our brothers, didn't like the plan for his pride and chose to fall from Heaven. Now we are here choosing and our old brother Lucifer, now Satan, wants us to be miserable. The best was to get us is through our pride. If we understand pride, we will be able to understand that the sin will lead us to destruction.
I have learned a great deal about pride Mom.
Satan really tries to make us miserable like him. Miserable forever. How interesting.
I know that he is our enemy, but we were, in the Lords' great Plan of Happiness, provided with a Savior. Jehovah volunteered Himself and prepared an escape from Satan's chains. He gave us an Atonement. He made a way so that not only we could escape from Satan, but so that we could erase every single time where we chose his dark plan. We would be cleansed Mom. We can return home again.
I know that that these things are true. We know theses things, you and I.
I love you Momma. I just thought I would send you a little bit about some things I've learned with greater fullness. Read the scriptures and pray for me. I am kind of having a little bit of a hard time here. Don't worry though. The Lord is with me. Love your son,
Christopher
Click Twice Fullscreen Photos of Christopher
Pics taken by Marcos Oliva

Terremotos y el fin del mundo Concepcion Earthquake 8.8

2010-03-08T18:25:00.000-08:00

Hello,

I honestly don't know where to start. What else is there to say than
how amazing is the power of God. If you only felt the mix of feelings
that I feel now...
In the past few days I have learned a lot about God's plan for me and
the Plan for all of us.
These really are the last days. That was a confirmation when I woke up
and 3:34 in the morning last Saturday. Slowly the earth shook, and
slowly I realized that I was experiencing an earthquake. Then the
earth shook more violently. And it didn't stop, it seemed, never. Even
now.

After that came the tsunami and the looting and the fires and, etc.. A lot.

During this time of trial and chaos, I have observed many foundations
fall, literally and spiritually speaking. Many people are found
themselves asking , "where is my strength?" I've lost my house, my
work also doesn't exist, I have no computer, no TV. Where am I?" they
ask. More precisely they ask. "who am I?"

Seeing this I am grateful to know that I, nor have they, been left
alone in this very traumatic experience. I have had the Lord's help
every step of the way. Now they have their rhetorical walls broken
down so that they can also have this help as well.

I have learned more than anything that if you are prepared you shall
not fear. I have seen that a people full of fear will do almost
anything to survive. If we prepare spiritually by living the Gospel
and by keeping a year's supply of food storage we shall not fear.
Ever.
I have a feeling that this is just the beginning. We must prepare.
From this moment on we must decide whom we will serve. This earthquake
has divided this people in two. The line is more apparent between good
and evil. As for me, I chose to serve Jesus Christ. I believe that
that has been and will be the greatest decision I make. I have seen
the alternative and it is nothing. I am His disciple.

I am safe and well, I we are going to get there. I know it. Pray until
your knees hurt.

Elder Christopher Morgan, Concepcion Chile Mission

Read Doctrine and Covenants 122:7-9

7 And if thou shouldst be cast into the ^apit, or into the hands of murderers, and the sentence of death passed upon thee; if thou be cast into the ^bdeep; if the billowing surge conspire against thee; if fierce winds become thine enemy; if the heavens gather blackness, and all the elements combine to ^chedge up the way; and above all, if the very jaws of ^dhell shall gape open the mouth wide after thee, know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee ^eexperience, and shall be for thy good.

8 The ^aSon of Man hath ^bdescended below them all. Art thou greater than he?

9 Therefore, ^ahold on thy way, and the priesthood shall ^bremain with thee; for their ^cbounds are set, they cannot pass. Thy ^ddays are known, and thy years shall not be numbered less; therefore, ^efear not what man can do, for God shall be with you forever and ever.

Dear Momma,

Today I have been running all over Conce trying to get used to this thing and prepare. I haven't had much time, sorry. Now I am here and I am so glad that I get to write you. I know that you understand that the Lord has me in His hands and that I am always safe with Him.

I am going to write two letters today. This letter is for you ,dad and Chanelle, the next is for everyone. First let me try and answer all of your questions.

So the other day the Area President came to visit us and it was amazing the cheer that he gave us. I think that we are going to stay a proselyting mission but its just going to be a little different. (understatement) We have already gotten back to the work. It's really different. The people area are willing to hear.

The food and water are fine. We are fine. Maybe a little stressed & tired but other than that we are great!!! It is amazing to be a survivor of one of the greatest cataclysms in decades. An earthquake and then a tsunami and then all the fires and looting and fire fights! wow!!!

The Lord has really protected me and a lot of other people. I have felt much stronger these days in my faith and testimony. Other than that I see a lot clearly my own weaknesses. I am a dummy but I have a promise--

Ether 12 27. And if men come unto me I will show unto them their ^aweakness. I ^bgive unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my ^cgrace is sufficient for all men that ^dhumble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make ^eweak things become strong unto them.

I haven't moved yet, I am going to soon... My stuff is not stolen.

We are not drinking that water. We are using it for the toilet. We drink mineral water... good for you too!

I think it would be great to go to Disneyland...

I am safe and well. I am fine. This earthquake is a great blessing. Really.

I Love you

Elder Quaker Morgan

2010-03-05T05:42:00.000-08:00

Christophers family was recently featured in a news story, we were interviewed for 1 1/2 hours.

The story was supposed to inspire humanitarian aid.

It was smashed into only the bits of drama (which was true) and turned out whiny, out of context People Magazine type Crud! Aarrrggghhhh!

Monday March 1, 2010

2010-03-01T08:55:00.000-08:00

Christopher on Good Morning America

MAKE SURE TO PAUSE MUSIC
PLAYER BEFORE YOU PLAY VIDEOS!!

2010-02-27T20:00:00.000-08:00

Hard evidence that all the Concepcion missionaries were OK came in around 5:30 tonight.

82- significant earthquakes in Concepcion.

http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/recenteqsww/Maps/10/285_-35_eqs.php

http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/recenteqsww/Maps/10/285_-35.php

2010-02-15T13:16:00.000-08:00

Alma 26: 12.

Yea, I know that I am ^anothing; as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will ^bnot boast of myself, but I will ^cboast of my God, for in his ^dstrength I can do all ^ethings; yea, behold, many mighty miracles we have wrought in this land, for which we will praise his name forever.

Hey Momma,

I am glad that you are helping so much in the Lord' cause. There are many sick and afflicted to be saved. I loved that story. The Lord makes miracles. I am sad that the family is not doing so well. I am praying.
At this time in my mission, Mom, I have found the most sadness and the greatest happiness being a servant of the Lord. I have had the chance to invite many to come unto Christ. Many have entered the waters of baptism believing my testimony and feeling the Holy Spirit testify of my words. I am a disciple of Christ.
Despite the goodness of God I find myself failing and becoming saddened by the sins of the world.
I am the happiest that I have ever been. Christ lives! I have hope that everything will turn out alright in the end despite all the bad things that happen. Jesus Christ has called me to be His servant. I am humbled by this call. To testify of His Plan and of His Atonement is amazing.
I am having a great but hard time. Why? For Christ has gone below all of these things. Am I greater than He?
No, I am not. Nevertheless He will sustain me.
I Love you. I pray for you. I read the BoM night and day. It is amazing!

2010-02-14T12:38:00.000-08:00

2009-11-23T19:02:00.000-08:00

Disclaimer
Before you read this, realize that my English has been reduced to pretty much only being able to speak in the language of the scriptures. Also I haven't gotten much sleep lately because of my skin rash. Try not to laugh at me.

Dear Family,
This week was very strange. Very fulfilling and at the same time draining. Yesterday we baptized David. ¡Por fin! He was the first new investigator that Elder Hodges found. And now he's baptized! The funny thing is that we have never entered into his house before. We always just taught him on his porch or at a members house. Strange.

Yesterday we learned a sad lesson about why we shouldn't gossip. First of all, gossiping destroyers of souls.

Ever. If the world only know what they were doing and how destructive it is. I have heard stories of people committing suicide in my stake because their "friends" in the church betrayed them along with everyone they knew just because of a little story gets spread and then becomes something bigger until the the story has been completely changed and the character of that person is destroyed.
Now, the thing that is the most sad to me is that I find myself falling into the trap of gossip. I find myself talk poorly about other missionaries or other people. I pray that the things that I have said haven't hurt anyone.
Gossip is so dangerous. We all fall into the trap. The Book of Mormon warns strongly against this throughout as it shows entire civilizations be destroyed from "secret combination's." To define secret combination's, one must really think about the term. I imagine a group of people like the Illuminati or something like that. But it can be ever so simple as someone just turning to his neighbor and telling him about that stupid thing that Bob did the other day. Remember, millions of people have been killed from secret combinations. And these secret combinations have all started form gossip.
Those that gossip have no part in salvation. They literally damn themselves with self righteousness until everything they do is right and everything that others do is wrong. In this way Satan leads them by his chains.
I may sound harsh, but it is because I am angry. I am angry at myself for having gossiped before. I am angry at how easy it is to fall into this destructive sin. I am angry because I know my family does this, other missionaries, latter day saints, everyone! I was devastated at what happened yesterday. I felt like someone had punched me in the stomach when I heard this recent convert say that to the Bishop. I never want to feel that way again.
I am here to build, but I had found that I had destroyed instead. We are all supposed to build but we destroy with the words we say.
I hope that someday I can break my habit of gossiping. I hope I am bigger than that someday.
We have to unify and build with love and faith. Not destroy with hate and fear. Deep down we gossip because we fear. Let's not be afraid of anything. We have all experienced the power of the Atonement in our lives to some degree. This is perfect love. Perfect love casteth out all fear and it is the only thing that can save us from destroying each other.
I love you family. There are miracles here. I love seeing the miracle of the Atonement take place individually every day. I love the feeling of love I feel from it. Yesterday I found out how much I have the feeling when I see the power of the Atonement try to be undermined by fear and hate.
I love you family, I hope that you understood my Spanglish. I have lost a lot of my abilities to speak English in any other way than through the language of the scriptures. In a way I suppose that that is good. Go ad have fun. Be full of love. Show that love. Like Shakespeare said, "those that don't show their love don't love.

I love you all,

Elder Morgan

2009-11-22T23:45:00.000-08:00

Christmas is called Easter and Easter is called the Holy Week. But it's all the same commercialism. We do all the present opening on Christmas Eve which is strange... how does Santa have enough time to set the presents? Santa isn't as big here. Thanksgiving doesn't exist just like the 4th of July doesn't exist here.

I love you
Love Christopher

PS Tell Dad that he needs to start writing me or that his emails aren't coming through. Tell Chanelle I love her and that I said sleep tight baby sister.

Dear Family,

Just so you know, I just wrote you all a long letter and then decided I didn't like it.
Hopefully this one is better. Please read it all.

Hey, How are you all? I am fantastic!
On Friday, amazingly enough, I completed 6 months on the mission. Crazy huh? I never thought this day would come but here I am. As I look back at my experiences I feel satisfied that I made the decision to come here. I am happier then I have ever been here. Although the mission isn't just sunshine and butterflies, I am happy because the Lord is actually actually making a difference through me! Who'd have thunk it? I love looking at how much I have learned and grown. Looking back on my first few days on the mission and realizing that I had no clue what I was getting myself into. Working all day, in the street most of the time, and only sleeping 6 hours a night. I had no idea that that is what I would do. But I am glad that I came and that I have this opportunity to serve the Savior and change people's broken lives.

To avoid only working in the street and coming home exhausted every day, I have learned to serve more effectively. As we, Elder Hodges, my companion, and I, were working on this facet of the work, we came across a miracle named Jaime. We were in an Internet cafe working on a reference system for the members when a middle aged man went up to the counter to pay for his Internet time. He looked at us and said "hola." U said "hola, ¿cómo esta?" back. Then from this moment he told me he wasn't very good because he had some problems. He then told me that ten years ago he met missionaries like us and told them no because he was atheist. As he was about to leave he invited us to his house to talk to him-- which in and of itself was a miracle because no one ever, ever invites us over--in 15 days. I said OK but as soon as I had done so my companion Elder Hodges said that we had time to go over that day. Jaime said OK, I'll be home at 7, he gave us his address and said goodbye.

We were punctual and went at 7. We knocked on the door and rang the door bell for 5-6 minutes. No one was there. We finally gave up and were walking away , when about 3 blocks away from the house I started thinking, " what if he is home and we just didn't try hard enough." No sooner had I thought this when I felt every atom in my body scream, "turn back!" I have felt the Spirit before but not anything like this. I felt scared to disobey. I stopped and looked at Elder Hodges and told him that we had to go back.

We went back and found the same results. No one home. We got discouraged ad I started double thinking my prompting. Just when we were about to turn back we saw Jaime come around the corner waving at us. I felt a strong feeling of happiness that I had listened to the Spirit. I felt even more happiness as we shared with him and he accepted a baptismal date. He even went to church last Sunday.
On Friday, exactly one week after we found him--or, rather he found us--he bore his testimony of the Book of Mormon and how in one short week it had changed his life. He is the only person I have seen on my mission mark and take note on every chapter he has read. Now we are working towards his baptism on the 29th. Every time we see him he reminds us that he is getting baptized.

Every time i see him, every time I see someone come closer to the Savior, I say to myself "this is the greatest feeling of my life." And it is. Why? because I feel for him and for everyone charity. That is THE greatest feeling that anyone can ever feel.

I see how much that charity has changed me. Before I looked for happiness from the outside world. My happiness was dependent on conditions beyond my control. Now I can feel that love, that happiness from grow from the heart. That is a different kind of happiness because it is from God.

When I am filled with that love I wonder what is this love. Mormon the prophet said that charity is the pure love of Christ. A love that casteth out all fear. Nephi explains that that love is more desirable than all others. A love so powerful that it "take[s] away the stony heart out of [our] flesh, and will give[s] [us] an heart of flesh."(Ezekiel 36:26) This love changes everything.

This love is the Atonement of Jesus Christ. The apostle John said that "God so loved the world that He gave His Only Begotten."

I want you to imagine something to make this more clear: having to give one of your children to save someone else. Now remember that God gave His Son for us, humanity. A people where they desecrate and defile His name. A people that kills each other. A people so full of hate that killed their Savior. With that in mind imagine that you had to give your child for someone that hated you and spoke wrong of you and hurt you and did all things against you. In order to do so you would have to love that person a lot. More than anything. That is what God did for us and that is how much He loves us, His children that defile His name. He loves us in an indescribable amount. That is His perfect love; That He gave His Son for us.

This love lights everything and does cast out ALL fear.

When we experience of that love for ourselves nothing can ever compare.

Now you may ask "why don't we feel this love all the time? If God really loved me wouldn't I feel it?" He does love you, He loves us all. We are the one's that take His love and reject it through not keeping His commandments. His commandments are the path for us to feel that love. The way that we can chose for ourselves if we really want to feel that love.

I know that you can feel this love. Please let him love you. Every day I beg for people to let Him love them. I now beg of you to let Him love you, my family. Please let Him love you. Feel of that love and live for it. Keep the commandments. He promises that He will give it you. I say Who is God to promise and not complete? He will complete. I know.

That, family, in a nut shell, is what I have learned in the past 6 months.

I love you.

Elder Morgan

I love you mom more than anything. Please know that and please trust me. Please. I am here for the Lord no one and nothing else.

Elder Morgan.

PS In the Christmas package please send me some root beer concentrate in the little bottles. You can find it in any store.

2009-10-19T14:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Family,

How are you!? I hope you are good.

As for me, the mission gets better and better. Last week I switched areas which kind of made me mad because of how amazing my last area was. I learned so much from the people there. Especially I think I learned how to have charity. It was hard at times but I learned and grew a lot. Now I am in Central Concepciòn. My area is tiny but there is a lot of potential. When I got here it was pretty bad. It seems like the missionaries before me didn't do a whole lot. But in this area I have had one of the best weeks of my mission. Mainly because of what happened on Saturday. In the morning we did a tour of the chapel, showing people around so that they can get to know it. In the first hour no one went in. In the last twenty minutes we found Gabriel. Gabriel is middle aged with a lot of lines in his face. Not because he’s especially old, but, it seemed, because he has been through a lot--a lot of worry. At first when we talked to him he was taken aback at us, at that time I just thought it was because we are two Gringos in suits coming to talk to him. We invited him in to the chapel and we showed him around no big deal. Towards the end we started to talk to him, really talk to him. As we did so we listened to to the sad story of a man that is spiritually starving. As he spoke with tears,he told us that three months ago his mother died. Before that his family left him for money problems. His mother was the last person that he had in his life to talk to. He tried to find God and friends through a local church. They told him that he needed to find his way alone and that they couldn’t help him. Just that week he tried strike up a conversation with one of his neighbors but they didn’t give him the time of day. No one listened to him. With tears of shame he told us that at times he looked up at the hill next to his house with the thoughts of suicide. When he saw us that we wanted to talk to him he told us that he was taken aback. No one ever wanted to talk to him. He told us he was grateful that we listened to him. Then we told him about the plan of salvation. As the Spirit testified to him of its truth he began to sob Even more as we told him of Jesus Christ and His atonement. How long, I thought, has this man been alone, starving for life Finally he understood his purpose in life, finally he understood that he was going to be with his mother again. After forty minutes or so, we said goodbye. As Gabriel left, I saw that the darkened, worried man that we knew had changed. There was a light inside now.

In conference a few weeks ago, someone said that the Gospel isn’t really like filling a bucket, but more like lighting a fire. I believe that.

I am inexpressibly grateful for that miracle that I witnessed. That I got to take part in it! The Atonement of Jesus Christ is amazing. At times I have felt like something is missing. But I know now that it was Christ. He healed, right before my eyes, Gabriel. After that I felt more whole. I hope that you will allow this miracle to happen in your lives. I love you all. Thank you for supporting me.

Love,
Elder Morgan

"I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh." Ezekiel 36:26

2009-10-12T10:58:00.000-07:00

Vista de Laguna Chica San Pedro,

Concepcion - CHILE

Dear Family,

How are we? I am great! I just moved from Talca, my first area, to Central Concepcion. I was really sad to leave all of my converts and the members. I think that I will go back to Talca someday. I am sad to leave the people of Talca. Really I felt that I had more to do here. But God has other plans. I'm ok with that. The converts are sad though. I told some of them this morning and they cried. Sigh. Its a good thing that they didn't get baptized because of me or else they would inacivate. They converted because there is really something special about this church. I didn't always know it. But there is a fire that is lit when I read the Book of Mormon and pray and testify of the Divinity of Jesus Christ. A fire of love. This is what I have learned on my mission. I really do know that it is true. There is no way to go around it. The beauty of Healing has given me this testimony. It has given me freedom more than I have ever known. I saw its light, and it filled me. I know. That is all there is to it. I just felt like I should tell you that testimony.

I love it in this area already. you can find it easy on google earth. My ward is called Lorenzo Arenas. It has a round pond in it and its right next to the Bio Bio. It is really nice here. I was dying of heat in Talca, but now that I am right next to the ocean I am AY-Ok. I love the people here. They just love helping the missionaries with the work. Its awesome. Now they get to see the Morganator at work.

I don't know if any of you heard but Conce is getting a temple! woo hoo! I challenge everyone that reads this to get ready to go to the temple as soon as possible. If only you knew how amazing it is and how important.

My comp is great. He loves to cook and he made me some really really good pasta the other day. He is a little goofy but I am more goofy than the lot of 'em. He might be going home here in a few days because he has scoliosis and a herniated disk. So pray for him please.

I wanted to take the rest of this letter to express my love for the Book of Mormon. I watched that talk by Elder Holland and it inspired me. Really the Book of Mormon is the Greatest book ever written. It is the word of God. I wish I had prayerfully read it before the mission so that i could have known how beautiful life is. More than anything else that is what the Book of Mormon has done for me; it has opened my life to see the greatness in the world, the greatness in other people, and my own personal potential. It invites every man, woman and child to come unto Jesus Christ and be saved. Understand that saved is saved from the unhappy, depressing chains with which we are bound. A healing. A new start. Saved from being alone in this long and windy life. I challenge all to read the Book of Mormon, cover to cover, before the year is through and find for yourself if this book is what I and millions of other witnesses say it is. You have to eat the cake to know if it tastes good. Just do it.

Love Elder Morgan

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

2009-10-03T09:20:00.000-07:00

Concepcion Chile Temple YEA!!!!!

Temple in Concepcion, Chile

President Monson of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced yesterday that the church would be constructing a temple in Concepcion, Chile - . I am extremely excited for the members of the church. .This announcement has been in the works for at least a decade.

I can't wait to see what it's going to look like.

Here's a picture of the Santiago Temple -

2009-09-28T10:04:00.001-07:00

sniffle

hey! I didn't get a letter from anyone today); I will come back later to see,however.

2009-09-22T09:15:00.000-07:00

Hello Familia,

I loved that last letter.

I'll tell you that my real challenges are more spiritual. Elder Jorgensen and I have been working to get baptisms and find new people but it just seems that no one is reacting to the gospel the way they should. Please pray for the people, they are very cynical towards the gospel. Please pray for Maria Jose, she needs to feel the love of heavenly father. More than anything pray for us that we will have 10 investigators in church on Sunday.

Other than that I really have no challenges. I am really studying the Atonement lately. You should study it. There are some amazing things about it. I am really trying to build that vision in my character, and have the habit of sharing it with everyone and with much power. Please pray for us to reach the heart of the people with our message.

Yes I have an emergency plan. The mission gave it to me. I will send you a copy. Yes I am getting support from my companion. He is a very hard worker and he lets me talk about my silly ideas freely and with patience. Elder McCoy is going home this transfer. he is a good friend of mine. I'll send you pictures. I am worried about Cam. Have him write me back.

It would be nice if you could also send me more tapes? Thank you so much for helping me be a good missionary. I love you so much. I will write you a paper letter this week. and I am sending you tapes. Love you.Big Kiss
Elder Morgan

2009-09-07T13:29:00.000-07:00

2009-09-07T13:12:00.000-07:00

2009-09-07T12:36:00.000-07:00

Buenas dias,

This week was awesome! we had a baptism yesterday! It was so cool. I preformed the baptism of Favio Valenzuela, the son of Fabiola the Señora that I baptized a few weeks ago. It was soooooo cool. In the sacrament meeting before his baptism he bore his testimony and it was so strong. and right before his baptism he asked me if we could kneel and say a prayer. He said one of the best prayers that I have ever heard. It was really sweet. Next week we should have two baptisms and two more this month. I am reaching my baptism goals now. Elder Jorgensen is awesome! He loves to work hard and I am loving the mission more and more every day. We should get baptisms every week while I am with him. We're getting it done! We have faith that the Lord is on our side. We are quite a team along with The Holy Ghost. We are having so much fun. Especially since we moved. It is so much nicer than the other house. I can actually have a nice shower! Its soooooo cool. The only thing is that time is starting to move a little slower than usual. but when I think about it, it seems like the transfers were just a few days ago. Time I think doesn't mean anything. You know what? I love you. Anyways, the other day I think I offended someone in church because I didn`t shake their hand. Its not like I tried to but I just wasn`t thinking about it. oh well. Did I tell you that I walk everywhere? I also take taxies and buses. but I mostly just walk. The other night I had a dream that I came home because Chanelle was getting married to some buffoon. Only in that case will I come home early. So you can take that to mean that I plan on finishing my time do or die. I am permanent in the scriptures. If you can send me a quadruple of the Spanish Bible B.o.M D&C and the pearl of great price. If it doesn't exist yet then maybe just the Spanish Mormon bible that just came out. I love trying to understand the scriptures in Spanish. I read my Patriarchal Blessing this week and I think that I have a lot of cool stuff coming up soon.
I love you. Stay the same amazing family that God intended for you.
Con amor
Elder Morgan

2009-08-24T11:03:00.000-07:00

2009-08-24T10:57:00.000-07:00

Dear Family,
Ok, understand that all day every day I am speaking Castillano so please understand if my spelling is off and my sentence structure is funky.

My first transfer.
Honestly, this transfer was the hardest best thing that I have ever experienced. It was very difficult, believe me.
But towards the end it got better. I learned that the best way to teach someone is through a good example and love. Tough love.
It really was hard and if you want to know the details I`have to tell you personally. But honestly I have learned something that will change the way I look at my mission.
There is always opposition. The scriptures say that there is opposition in all things. I feel like I have literally felt opposition in all things. But through perseverance and prayer, the Lord has given me so many blessings.
Last month I studied the Atonement. Before the miracle of the Atonement there was opposition. First Christ prayed. He fell on His face. He bled from every pore. He suffered an infinite sacrifice. Through this sacrifice we are made clean. Given the chance to choose between eternal life and eternal misery. We have a choice now. That was the miracle of the Atonement.
There is still opposition fighting against this miracle. Satan doesn't want that this miracle is achieved in the lives of God`s children. This month I have seen this opposition. Its everywhere. We had people with baptismal dates, but now we don`t find them or they tell us that they don`t want to share with us any more. There is pornography everywhere. Investigators that have once given up smoking have relapsed. Satan rages against this work.
But the power of God will conquer. We have faith that it will happen. As the prophet Moroni said, you receive no witness until after the trial of your faith. We have been tried. We now have a witness.
Yesterday we baptized two of God`s children. One is named Rodrigo, and the other is Faviola. To see their progress and growth in the Gospel was amazing. I had the opportunity to baptize Faviola and Elder Neal baptized Rodrigo. We have seen so much opposition with both of them. After every testimony that I have given, the greatest is that God is a God of miracles. I have seen them! Yesterday the greatest of all miracles was realized in two lives. The healing power of the Atonement. Yes there are hard times, but I will never doubt that in the plan of God everything will work out. There will always be miracles. Always.
Now all I have to do is move forward. It will be hard this transfer. Both of my companions are leaving to different sectors. I now have to train my senor comp on the sector. I have until tomorrow to memorize everything about the area. And I heard that I speak better Spanish than my new companion! It`s going to be an adventure to be sure. It will be hard, but it will be worth it.
I love you family. I am sorry that I couldn't write everyone a personal letter today. I have very little time to get everything ready for the transfer. Don`t think that I am not thinking about you. I am. I love you and I miss you.
Un abrazo
Elder Morgan

P.S Remember who you were born to be.

P.p.s Another miracle is that we moved! My house is sosososososososo
much better. The water heater works and there is room to put stuff. The best thing is that, as compared to the other house, you don`t wake up depressed because of your living conditions.

Christopher's favorites

2009-08-23T23:36:00.000-07:00

If You Could Hie to Kolob, 284 - William W. Phelps

1. If you could hie to Kolob In the twinkling of an eye,
And then continue onward With that same speed to fly,
Do you think that you could ever, Through all eternity,
Find out the generation Where Gods began to be?

2. Or see the grand beginning, Where space did not extend?
Or view the last creation, Where Gods and matter end?
Me thinks the Spirit whispers, “No man has found ‘pure space,’
Nor seen the outside curtains, Where nothing has a place.”

3. The works of God continue, And worlds and lives abound;
Improvement and progression Have one eternal round.
There is no end to matter; There is no end to space;
There is no end to spirit; There is no end to race.

4. There is no end to virtue; There is no end to might;
There is no end to wisdom; There is no end to light.
There is no end to union; There is no end to youth;
There is no end to priesthood; There is no end to truth.

5. There is no end to glory; There is no end to love;
There is no end to being; There is no death above.
There is no end to glory; There is no end to love;
There is no end to being; There is no death above.

By the way, I copied these lyrics from a web site that has many (all?) hymn lyrics posted, it is available here .

2009-08-22T07:58:00.001-07:00

Free AUDIO for
"Preach My Gospel"
online link
mp3 pdf

2009-08-17T12:32:00.000-07:00

Talca (2002 Census pop. 193,755) is a city and commune in Chile, and is the capital of both Talca Province and Maule Region (7th Region of Chile).

The city was founded as San Agustín de Talca in 1742 by José Antonio Manso de Velasco.[3] It was partially destroyed by earthquakes in 1742 and 1928, being rebuilt both times. The city played a role in Chile's independence; it was the home of Mgr. José Ignacio Cienfuegos, and was the site Bernardo O'Higgins' proclamation of Chilean independence in 1818.[3]

The city is an important economic center, with agricultural (wheat) and manufacturing activities, as well as wine production. It is also the location of the Universidad de Talca and the Catholic University of Maule, among others. The Catholic Church of Talca has held a prominent role in the history of Chile.

The inhabitants of Talca have a saying, Talca, Paris & London, born from a hat shop which had placed a ribbon stating that it had branches in Paris and London. The shop was owned by a French immigrant named Jean-Pierre Lagarde.
Contents
[hide]

* 1 Geography and climate
o 1.1 Climate
* 2 See also
* 3 References
* 4 External links

[edit] Geography and climate

Talca is located 250 km south of Santiago,[3] south of the confluence of the rivers Lircay and Claro, in the Central Valley. The city is bisected by the Pan-American Highway.

[edit] Climate

Talca lies within the Continental Mediterranean climate zone, with a dry season of four months. Average annual rainfall is 749 mm and the annual temperature averages 13 °C.

Talca is located in Chile
Talca
Talca
Location in Chile

2009-08-03T12:49:00.000-07:00

This week has been so full of miracles. I challenged my first family to baptism and they accepted! It was amazing. We fasted this month so that we could reach our goal as a mission with 150 baptism in one month. We believe that it is the Lord`s goal. We fasted for the faith that we can be His servants and see miracles. We are already seeing miracles. I know that I have felt the gift of tongues in my teachings. It is the most exhilarating feeling. You have to feel it. God really is a God of Miracles. I can testify to that. When there aren`t miracles, its because there isn`t any faith. Miracles work by faith.

I love it in this cold flea bitten country. I still cannot get over the fact that I am here sending the gospel to those in the dark. That in itself is a miracle.

One of the best miracles happened when the mission president came to our house and told us that we have to move. He said that it was probably the worst houses that he has seen. I agree. Its like living in a cave honestly. A cold, dark cave. We looked for a house yesterday and found a nice one in our price range. We are moving next weekend.

This country is so quirky. Their milk is in a box, un refrigerated. Their yogurt is in a bag. They put guacamole on their hot dogs. And mustard and mayo on everything. EVERYTHING. They don`t have chocolate that tastes good. That, I think, is the first sign that I am not in Utah anymore. There are dogs everywhere. EVERYWHERE. And the most popular activities is to play ping pong, fly kites and watch bootlegged movies. My favorite quirk is that there are little stores on every street called negocios. They are built out of peoples garages. Its just a tiny little store with Coke, bread, candy, and little slot machines. The funny thing is that they`re on every street. Good ol Chile
Really, I love it here. This is the best place on earth. I would recommend it to anyone to come on a mission and see what I have seen. See the light being shown into the darkness.
I love you family. you are the best family on the face of this earth. When I come home, I am going to give you a hug and not let go for a very long time.

Con amor
Elder Morgan

2009-07-27T12:54:00.000-07:00

Buckle UP!!!

Dear family and everyone else that looks at the blog.
Wow! I wish you could be here and see the things that I am seeing. This place is definitely not America. It's nice to finally get an eye opener that not everywhere in the world is like America. The perfect example of this is my apartment. Its little more than a cement shack. It gets so cold in there I think that its warmer out side. I guess that there is one good thing about it being cold though... its too cold for bugs to live there.
Oh man I wish i could describe how much I love it here. I am beyond words. That I am able to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with my brothers and sisters in Chile is just amazing. In the MTC I felt a strange anxiousness to get out here and teach. Now I know why I felt that way. The people here really have no idea who they are. They treat their land like a garbage can, and their minds and bodies the same. Just think about it. When I teach them who they are, they are bound to change everything about them. no more chain smoking, no more littering the streets. New respect for the fact that they are literal children of Almighty God. This knowledge changes everything.
I get to share that! I wish i could have you feel the power of that ability. I can´t describe even the smallest part of what I feel.
I wish you could see the miracles that the Lord Brings to those that listen and teach this message. Its absolutely one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen in my life.
Never forget that, you are His son. You are His daughter. Remember this always. It will change your life.

The country side is beautiful, I will try and send some pictures of my trip to constitución last Monday.
The food here is pretty good but it ends up being all the same because i thing 12 out of the 14 lunches i have had have been chicken and rice. the best thing i have had is the empanadas. sorry i have to stop talking about food, i haven't had lunch yet.
The people here are really nice. Its mainly lower middle class, poverty level here. I am at poverty level haha. Just kidding. Some of the people that I have taught live in little more than wood shacks with dirt floors. its very humbling. Count your blessings.
Well fam I love you. I will write you if you write me. That's the policy. So you can send me e mails but I don't have a whole lot of time on email so ill just send you hand written letters. Please send me some American goodies. especially chocolate. well I have to go, my comps are bugging me. next letter I 'll tell you a little more about them. it's pretty weird having two though.
con amor,

Elder Morgan

The water heater is broken so we have to freeze to shower.

2009-07-22T13:41:00.000-07:00

Hola Familia!

So let me just start of by saying that this place is nothing like I expected. Its crazy. You´ll understand more as I go through the letter. And sorry for spelling errors the letters on the key board are different in this place.

So I am in a city called Talca. Its in the northern part of the mission.

I have two companions which is pretty cool because now I have twice the help to become a sweet missionary. Elder Neal is from Idaho. He´s been out here for a year and 6 months. he´s also the district leader. Then there is Elder Rubilar that is a native Chileno. It's cool having him as my comp because I HAVE to learn the language or else I can't talk to him.

We have a lot of investigators to teach. A lot of them are ready to get baptized soon. Next month we could have 9 baptisms which is close to the record. but now that we are three I think we can double that. But it's definitely not about the numbers, its about the people.

This one investigator is amazing. Her name is Maria-jóse. Her husband has cancer and her life is falling apart around her. A few weeks ago she couldn't find work and Elder Neal said that if she quit smoking she´ll find work. She quit and four days later she found work. AMAZING!
The only problem is that she works too much now and she can´t find time for us to teach her. So we can only teach her on Saturdays and Sundays. On Saturday we taught her the third lesson and when I bore my Testimony in broken Spanish she started crying. It was really amazing. I told her that Christ is the light of the world and then I shared 3 Nephi 13: 22 and told her that if she focuses her life on Christ then her life will be filled with light. And I told her how my life has been filled with light.

When she went to church for the first time yesterday it was amazing to see how she was changed when in gospel doctrine we talked about the atonement and resurrection. It was a miracle.

I love it here. It is nothing like I expected. From what everyone has told me I thought it was going to be warm and clean and, well like America. But how fast my eyes were opened. It is freezing here! I can see my breath in my apartment! Its so nice after a long day in the cold to warm up in bed. Also it is definitely not clean. There are dogs everywhere. If you look one direction or the other it doesn't matter. You´ll see a pack of mangy dogs. Some of them follow you for miles just for company. Others bark your ears off. Then the air is just filled with smoke because of people trying to get warm. Another way that its not clean is that there is open porn everywhere. I have to sing a lot of hymns.

But, in spite of all these things I love it here. The people are so ready for this gospel that I get to share with them. You look at these people and they are just so emptied from the junk of this life. Then when we share the amazing message of this gospel their whole countenance is changed from hollow to hopeful.
Well I have to go.
love you.
Elder Morgan

2009-07-22T13:07:00.000-07:00

2009-07-22T12:33:00.000-07:00

Mission
Sent: Viernes, 17 de Julio de 2009 11:24
To: 'morgancynthia9@yahoo.com'
Subject: Elder Morgan

17 de Julio, 2009

Dear Familia Morgan,

Thank you for sharing this outstanding new missionary with us. The group has arrived here in Concepcion and are already off to their fields of labor.

Attached is a “first” letter home, a photo with President and Hermana Chavez, and a map showing the current area of labor. We hope you will find this interesting and helpful.

Thank you for your diligent preparation of Elder Morgan.

Hermana Michelle Warner

Secretaria

Misión Chile Concepción

2009-07-12T14:16:00.000-07:00

This was taken the morning Christopher left

Flight Itinerary

Leaving the MTC 5:30 am. Fly to LAX on Delta from SLC at 8:30. LAX to Santiago, Chile on LAN from 1:20 PM to 5:25 AM with a stop in Lima, Peru. Then from Santiago to Concepcion from 7 AM to 8:10 AM.

I am actually leaving.

Hey family!
I love it here! It seems like every day gets better and better.
These past few days, I have felt the Spirit so strongly as I prepare to leave to serve Him in Chile. I can feel Him in my heart as I pray for strength and charity. He is with me.
Although I am excited to go out into the field and do what I was called to do, I am kind of sad that I have to leave this place. Everyone I know has become my best friend, my family. I have had so many fantastic memories here. Meeting Apostles, goofing around with my companion,l earning Spanglish. It all seems like it was just yesterday that I got here and now I am leaving...
Perhaps life for me is meant to feel surreal. Kind of like I am constantly out of my comfort zone. I pray every night that God will put me through the fire so that He can make me strong. That sounds weird, but I understand that it is out of the hard times and the trials that God makes His Valiant Ones. So I say, come what may. What will be will be. And bring it on! Because I know that if I am at some point put into the dark, its because I need to let my light shine forth. And I will let it shine. I have no fear.
If there was one thing that I have taken away from the MTC more than anything is to have no fear. Fear is the opposite of faith. I will have faith. I will boldly go ahead and trust that God is there for me. Even though I don't know what is going to happen to me, He knows. That is most comforting to me. I just trust Him that he will lead me into Eternal Life. What else is there to do?
I love you family. Have no fear, trust Him and love life.
I hope that you will still write me when I am in Chile.
Now I take the step into the dark, not knowing what will happen. I will trust Him. I will shine.
Elder Christopher Daniel Morgan

Chile has 7,342 confirmed swine flu cases, compared to 1,587 for Argentina, but only 15 deaths, in part because it had more antiviral drugs stockpiled

2009-07-03T11:14:00.000-07:00

Hey!
To quote my branch president " bueno goodo to you!"

So this week was probably the most amazing week here.
qué será será.
but don't think that nothing amazing happened this week.on Friday Elder Holland gave us a talk on the need of the Holy Ghost in our lives that I'll talk about more at the end of this email. One thing that was pretty cool was that as well as Elder Holland on the stand, Elder Perry, Elder Bednar, Elder Oaks, Elder Anderson, Elder Christofferson, and Elder Cook were there also.

And, get this, I was blessed to meet Elder Oaks and Elder Christofferson! I was doing service in one of the seminars for the mission presidents and I shook theirs hands and talked with them about where I am from and where I am going. it was pretty sweet.

But the main reason that this week was so amazing was that I felt the Spirit in my life stronger than I have ever before. And I realized something that I probably should have realized long before. but I realized that I need the Spirit with me. If I don't I will fail this mission that the Lord has trusted me with.

One of my teachers told me a story about how the Spirit is the only thing that matters. He was teaching this woman in Mexico in his first area, and he's been teaching her for two months. Every time he and his companion tried to commit her to baptism she said no. So one day they decided that this was the day that she was going to be committed. when they did try to commit her she simply said, "no." He was devastated. Then he just asked her Why? and bore his testimony of the powerful importance that it has. At the end she said(remember that this was his first area), "I have no idea what you just said. but... I felt it. I will be baptized."

That story teaches me that I don't have to have great Spanish right away to make a difference. I just need The Holy Ghost. And let me tell you, that is a huge comfort to me. On Tuesday I met a Native of Chile and talked to him a little bit. I am not kidding, I didn't understand a single word of his Spanish. I mean when I hear Mexicans or other Spanish speakers talk i can understand most of what they say, but him not a word.

So I really hope that i have the Spirit with me or else i am done for.

in Elder Holland's talk, he said that I am a member of the Divine Companion ship. When I have the Holy Ghost with me I am apart of the God Head. Think about it. they testify of each other, and when I teach the truth through the Holy Ghost they testify to the investigator that what I am saying is the truth. And so I think to myself, that I have the most powerful Beings in the Universe on my team. what can go wrong? Even if I can't understand the Chilean Dialect. What can go wrong?

To end this letter I just want to tell you that I love this work. It has brought me the greatest joy that I have ever felt in my life. I get to bring people to Everlasting Life. Its amazing. I will never in my life give up the Light that I have found while being here.

Please remember to live the way that you need to to keep the Power of the Holy Ghost in your lives. As a Representative of Jesus Christ I promise you that your lives will be taken to new heights and levels that you never could have imagined.

I love you and I thank you for the gift that you have been to me in my life.
Your favorite Missionary.
Elder Christopher Morgan

PS. If you want to send me a letter or package you have to do it pretty much within the next three or four days because I leave for Chile in a week and a half. It takes nine weeks for letters to get there. So I think I'll pretty much be Emailing everyone when I get there. But I Guess you Could send a letter to me in Chile now and I'll get it in 8 weeks...Anyways... I love you

2009-06-27T11:12:00.000-07:00

Hey chaNelle!

So have a lot of time to talk to you today because aren't going to the temple today because its closed. so i can pretty much write you a thirty minute letter today.

So i very much enjoyed your letter about you and I think it was Brooke that tipped the canoe. i thought it was pretty funny until i read that you almost died. I am glad that you didn't and that you wrote me. were you wearing a life vest? I hope you were. I love how you told me about prayer. My testimony of prayer is so much stronger since I've been here. I have learned to just talk to God about the day and what i want the most. My prayers used to be comparable to a shopping list. Now it s a conversation where i actually care about what God thinks.
But back to the subject of canoes. One time i was going down the Provo river with me, Tannen Fausett and Bishop Hyatt in a canoe. So within the first five minutes we tipped the canoe and from that point on for about a half a mile we were just sitting there in the water. And the water was pretty dang cold. So don't think that you're bad at canoeing. I am probably worse than you.
Today is pretty chill because we aren't going to the temple. So we had three extra hours of prep time. I took a much needed nap. Now i am doing my laundry and talking to you.
So tomorrow will be pretty crazy. I think that we're get to go to a devotional where the prophet is going to speak to us. we're going to camp out so we can get first row seats. when Elder Bednar came we got front row seats and it was sooooooo cool! But this week s all about cool.
I think that you misunderstood me or i wrote it wrong, because i am passing the sacrament to the twelve and first presidency this Sunday and not last Sunday. so just to clear that up. But its going to be sooooooo cool! It will be something that i will be able to remember for the rest of my life. Its too bad that i won't be able to take pictures with them though haha.
so i am going to finish the book of Mormon this week. I am at the beginning of ether. I read the coolest thing about how they made the barges tight like a dish. and then they say that five times! then later they talk about how the lord prepares us to be strong against Satan. read the passages in ether 2 and liken them to you. it is so cool.
I really love the book of Mormon so much. Remember how i told you about president Dickerson? well he has taught me to really love it. There are some things in it that are just crazy how cool they are. but at the moment i can't really remember what they are haha, but i have them in my journal. read the book of Mormon and study it. write about it. read talks about it. stay in it. it really shows me how to come unto Jesus Christ.
well chagrin i love you. i miss you. we are going to spend tons of time together just talking after i come home. if you change by the time i get back, you better just get more perfect and cute. i won''t change except that I'll love the lord more and be a little bit more like Him.

I love you i have to go.
Sleep tight baby sister:) =}

PS tell me about up! and transformers;>

2009-06-20T20:42:00.000-07:00

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2009-06-18T15:39:00.001-07:00

Hey Family!!

This week was the best week so far. I have a lot to talk about and not a lot of time. We are the oldest district in our zone, which means that we have to raise the bar and be an example to the younger, less experienced missionaries. The Branch President especially wants me and my companion to be examples,
On Tuesday he said he had to talk to us about something. We were confused as to why, but then he explained that the MTC Mission President needed two of his best missionaries to do something for him.. When we heard what it was our mouths dropped with surprise. He said that the Mission President needed us to pass the Sacrament to the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve next Sunday. To say the least I am very humbled and surprised that we, out of two thousand faithful missionaries, were chosen to do this. I am not the best missionary here, but I am very blessed to be able to do this. The First Presidency and the Twelve are here for a new Mission President training seminar.

Anyways that's that ha ha.

Another thing that was really cool this week was that we taught the first lesson for the first time...in SPANISH! and we rocked it. During the first vision the investigator cried. It was really a cool experience to be able to teach that in Spanish, and the best part of it was that we taught from the heart. It wasn't wrote memorization, it was actual Spanish that I actually know. But to tell the truth, I know that I do not know Spanish very well. I know that we had help from Heavenly Father.

Some great scriptures that I really liked this week were: Ether 12; 2 Nephi 31,32,33 Mosiah 14; Alma 7, 26, 34.... and 3 Nephi 12-13. There are more but I only have a few minutes left. Also a great scripture to share if you don't know the answer to a question is 1 Nephi 11:17. It's a good one ha ha.

Thank you all for your love and support. I know that the Lord is with me. Some parts of the MTC are difficult, but if I always do what I am supposed to, and stay focused on the Lords Work, I can feel Him shape me into a better person and shape my future life. I know that I am spreading the truth to people that need it. the other day I talked to a woman in the Referral Center that said she knew something in her life was missing and she didn't know what it was or how to fix it. This Gospel that Jesus Christ is our Savior is what she misses in her life. This Good News that through Him we can be cleansed from our mistakes and sins. We have an internal instinct to be clean. We know that we need the Power of the Atonement in our lives. But we get so caught up in the things of the daily grind that we miss the point of our existence. "Men are that they might have joy," and that joy that we crave everyday can only come from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We really have to accept His invitation to be happy. And I re invite you that you should come unto Him and be cleansed. Find that Joy that you crave for. I have found that joy and that is why I'm here sharing this message to those who are willing to listen.
I love you and Give you this Testimony that Jesus Christ is our Savior in his name.

Elder Morgan

2009-06-08T07:47:00.001-07:00

2009-06-02T13:56:00.000-07:00

Dear Mommy, Daddy, & Chanelle :)

I love you so much! There aren't words to describe how much I love you.I want you to know that I know the Savior lives, and He died for for us. Its that love that I want to share with the children of God in Chile.

I want us as a family to set goals of reading the book of mormon as much as possible, if we do this, I know the Lord will give us a greater joy and happiness then we have yet to experience. He really does love us. I don't want to sound too preachy... but He does.

I wish that you could feel what I feel. People say that this first day is overwhelming, but to me it is very comforting I will be able to preach the Lords good news.

Thank you so much for being examples to me of love and kindness that you've shown me in my life. I love you. Please pray for me. I will pray for you.

With love
Elder Morgan

2009-05-29T19:23:00.000-07:00

It just keeps getting better and better! Time flies now. it feels like just yesterday that I was telling you all that time moves at a snails pace.
I love it here! I am learning the language very well. I already know how to say hello and goodbye! Un chiste( a joke) I know how to pray, bear my testimony and carry on a regular conversation. but I am by no means fluent.

I really wish I had time to tell you all of the amazing things that happened this week. but i guess i can only choose one.
at the referral center--just a call center for people to call in with questions or place orders for videos--I got a call from a lady with a question about blacks and the priesthood. She said that she was a member but she's been confused about the church since she found that out. I was kinda freaking out. I didn't know how to answer that! I knew for myself why that was, but i had no idea how to explain it to her. I was at a loss. so i just said a prayer to Heavenly Father for guidance. what hap pend next will amaze me for the rest of my life. I bore my testimony of how God love his children no matter who they are. I told her that I honestly didn't know how to answer her. but that I did know that God loves me. In 1 Nephi 11:17 it says something to the affect of what i said. i can't tell you everything that i said because its just too powerful to tell through words. After i bore my testimony, she was silent for a few moments. then through her tears she said that she was afraid to go to church because she felt like everyone hated her because she was the blackest out of everyone at church. then through my tears i told her that even Jesus Christ, the Savior of us all, was hated and crucified. But Christ knew that God loved him. I told her that if she believed that God loved her, nothing else mattered. after a few moments i asked her if she would pray about going to church. she said she didn't need to...she already got an answer from God through me that He loved her. She knew it. I cry about it now. I want to feel that happiness that i felt then all the time. it was the most amazing thing I've ever experienced. looking back on that 25 minute call i knew that i wasn't smart enough to have told her what i did. that day i knew that God helped me to help His daughter.

Well thanks for your help and support. I love you! send me more letters and goodies haha.

Love Elder Morgan

P.S. remember that who you are and never forget it. you are a child of God and he loves you: )
There aren't really any rules on the type of music the branch president just said use you discretion and he trusts us. but I'd love one. another thing I'd love is more ties and a real pair of shorts. thanks mom. you'll get my good letter in a couple of days:) love you!

2009-05-21T18:03:00.001-07:00

Date: Thursday, May 21, 2009, 4:55 PM

Hey! so for this first e-mail, I'm addressing it to everyone. this is the most amazing thing I've ever done. Even though I miss everyone a lot, I know that this is where I am supposed to be. It's bitter sweet it a lot of ways, but I know that God is with me.

I am on this mission because I know something. I know it, know it. It's more powerful and real than anything that I've ever had in my life. I want to share that with people. I want to bring that same happiness to others.

I've been a pretty selfish guy before in my life. I haven't done my best when I'm supposed to. I don't listen and I am just impatient sometimes. I'm really bad at shaping my character, and becoming a good person. But I've learned something since I've been here, And that is that if I give my life to God, He will shape me into something perfect. He is the master sculpter. I haven't let Him do it before now. And I am sad for those years lost in pride and selfishness.

Another thing I've learned is that anything is possible. Even though days here at the MTC seem like they're three days packed into one day, I think that the only thing that makes time go faster is teaching the lessons. Its amazing, but when I teach I feel like I'm not teaching at all, but that Someone else is giving me my words. The Spirit is so strong that I have to reach up and feel my shirt just to make sure that I'm not catching on fire. The other day when Iwas bearing my testimony during a practice lesson, one of my teachers started crying because he felt the Spirit so strong. It was so amazing that just thinking about it now makes me tear up.

I love this Good News that I am so blessed to share with the people of Chile. I get the chills just thinking about them. Who are they? What are they doing right now? And how is The Lord preparing them for me to invite them to come unto Christ? Its surreal.

I am glad to have you all as my family and friends. Thank you all so much for your support in helping me to get here. There aren't words to describe how much I love you.

Love your missionary,

Elder Christopher Morgan

P.S. I only get a half hour of e-mail time once a week. So try to stick to letters as much as possible=}

2009-05-18T10:13:00.000-07:00

Christopher's Mission Concepcion, Chile

August 16, 2010

❤Listen❤ To Them Most Of All...

Elder Reeds Blog Christopher's Companion

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♥ ♫ ♥ ♫ ♥ I adore YOU!!! ♥ ♫ ♥ ♫ ♥

Chile Images

Chile Earthquake Broke Earth’s Crust

Chile Earthquake: ‘A Complicated Fracture’

‘A jumping rupture process’

Mon, Jun 21, 2010

Bakán means cool, sweet, rad, da' bomb

David Archuleta Says Hello to Elder Morgan Book Signing

❤

Mon, May 17, 2010

Apr 26, 2010

It happened in Santiago He uses his paws like hands...WOW

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There Is Sunshine In My Soul

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Christopher Daniel Morgan

Priesthood Session

Concepcion Mission

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Good Morning StarShine!

The Earth Says Hello

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April 5, 2010

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Christopher Morgan Speech Eagle Scout Award Post Scoutmaster Warlough Crane

April 2010 General Conference

Earthquake Location

Magnitude 8.8 OFFSHORE MAULE, CHILE Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 06:34:14 UTC

CLICK FULLSCREEN Bio Bio, Concepcion Chile

Bio Bio, Concepcion Chile

"The Protections Of Angels" Chilean Missionaries Tell Their Story!!!

Terremoto 8.8 aftermath March 15, 2010

Earthquake in Chile

Written Pre Terremoto

Terremotos y el fin del mundo Concepcion Earthquake 8.8

Monday March 1, 2010

Hard evidence that all the Concepcion missionaries were OK came in around 5:30 tonight.

82- significant earthquakes in Concepcion.

Vista de Laguna Chica San Pedro,

Concepcion - CHILE

Temple in Concepcion, Chile

sniffle

hey! I didn't get a letter from anyone today); I will come back later to see,however.

Christopher's favorites

Chile has 7,342 confirmed swine flu cases, compared to 1,587 for Argentina, but only 15 deaths, in part because it had more antiviral drugs stockpiled

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Magnitude 8.8 OFFSHORE MAULE, CHILE
Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 06:34:14 UTC