Mission Week 97: May 15, 2017

May 15, 2017

What a Mother's Day it was,

It was so great to see the whole family live. Everyone looks vibrant and happy!!! I glad that the family is safe!

Things are smooth sailing here in Burgos. We had the blessing of seeing great success in our area this week with a lot of potential in our investigators. The district as well is doing wonderfully, almost hitting pautas as averages in the district. We are all about becoming the best disciple of Christ we can. We know if we can build great missionaries, they will build great areas. It doesn't always work the other way around. We are opening our minds to new ideas and ways of doing missionary work that have blessed us dearly. Our goal is to be better every week. Not change necessarily what we are doing, but change our focus to make week things strong. This week we focused on not going through the motions. In many aspects we see that we get comfortable and our productivity goes down. We discussed the 2000 stripling warriors and how they could have kept marching and been safe in Zarahemla, but they decided to turn back and fight. Turn back and try something new. They did and saw miracles.

Elder Torruella and I are the same. We worked so hard and the Lord blessed us with four investigators in church. A grand difference between the zero of last week. We worked hard and we only had two people confirmed. They did come, then another investigator showed up with a member family who helped in the visit. Then a family brought a friend who needed some comfort. It was such a miracle for us. I was so grateful for the members and how they are focused and working with their friends.

Power is oozing out of Elder Torruella as he testifies of the Restoration. He knows when to give his testimony and how. I am looking forward to another great week with him.
Love you so much. Hope Kalee is doing well.... 

Elder Tyson

Here are some pictures from this week:

Mission Week 96: May 9, 2017

May 9, 2017

Let's go!!!!!!

Burgos. A six letter word that comes from the the Latin root Burg, meaning full of miracles! The history holds true!! Burgos is a land of miracles and Elder Torruella and I have been working so hard to see them. We have overly blessed this week by finding 13 new investigators, having 4 second visits, and setting 3 baptismal dates with people we have met in this week. The pace is quick here in Burgos, and the branch is ready to help and serve. We are blessed immensely to have a branch president who is very focused on baptism and retention. We have had a coordination with him just to discuss the recent converts and what the branch can do to better help them feel part of the congregation.

Elder Torruella is firing on all cylinders! He is a power house. He knows the area well and knows what we need to do see baptisms in this area. What I really appreciate about him is that he is a great listener. He is always pulling things of what people say and using it to help teach them the Gospel. He is a fearless giant. He will contact anyone at anytime. He is also very teachable. He expressed to me some of the struggles they were having in this area in the past, and was able to accept some of my ideas and go with the flow. I have been trying to really support the things already built in this area and just add and tweak some things that will help us see success.

The branch here is powerful, we are about forty strong and many members are open to helping us in visits and spreading the Gospel. I pray that we can take advantage of them as we work for the salvation of man. I have been so impressed by the leadership of this branch. Although few, they lead like the Savior, and understand church government. I will be learning so much from each of them.

This city is the prettiest of my whole mission!! I will takes lots of pictures!!!! We are just getting going on preparation day here so we are going bowling today, more sight seeing next week!!

I am so excited to be a district leader! I have already planned all of my district meetings, intercambios, phone calls, and everything. Of course anything could change if the Spirit so indicates. 

 

I feel like this area is my final exam. My whole mission has been working up to these last six weeks.  This is it..... I am so happy and filled with energy... it's all on the table.

Next week I will be skyping at 10:00 your time..... that is six here.... I hope that works!!!!

This week I have spent my studies in the war chapters of the Book of Mormon and in chapter three of Preach my Gospel. I love how important the Gospel was for the Nephites. They put everything to the side to serve the Lord, and many times, even their lives. I have been studying the lessons of Preach my Gospel to learn to love and cherish it like the Nephites. I am so grateful for the light and truth restored by the Prophet Joseph Smith. I love my Savior and I hope to serve him with more power, energy, vigor, and zeal this week.
Love you so much, can't wait to see you!!!!

Elder Tyson!!!!!

 

 

Mission Week 95: May 2, 2017 Transferred to Burgos

May 2, 2017

Big news.....

I have been transferred!!!!!!!!

Last six weeks... leaving Badalona... going to......BURGOS!!!!!!!!!

That's right, it's in the North!!! Not quite Pamplona, nor Santander, but it's close!!!

My new companion is Elder Torruella, a young missionary who served in the Badalona zone when I was there!!

Also, big news, I am no longer a Zone Leader!!! I get to finish as a district leader!! It will be nice to have a change and focus on one district to finish off.

It was sad to leave Badalona, but is in good hands.

The members have been so nice here. It was so sad to say goodbye to converts and friends, but I am used to it now. We were at church and at sacrament meeting my converts from Terrassa came down to say goodbye to me. It was a tender mercy. It was so good to see them and talk about good times. It made me happy to know that I actually have done some good here in Spain, and I am excited to do some more in Burgos.

I am currently writing this email on a 6 hour train ride.... side note

Thanks for all the pictures and messages. I have so much hope in my heart, and am so honored that I was able to be chosen as an honorary pallbearer at the funeral. I hope the Wilhites are doing well.

I am grateful for this work. I know the Book of Mormon is true. I don't have much time today to write, but I will give you all the details of my area next week!

Love you tons,

Elder Tyson

Elder Tyson has made a post mission commitment!

 

Mission Week 94: April 24, 2017

April 24, 2017

Hey Tyson gang,

I have learned a lot this week. A lot about faith, miracles, family,
dedication, organization, humility, and creating your own weather. I
have had a lot of time to reflect this week, and I am grateful for the
Spirit that has taught me more than any book or person could ever.

Elder Knadler has taught me a lot this week. He is really good at
showing people that we are on their team. He is a great listener and
helps people really feel loved. He has been such a great help to me in
this week.

This week I put one of Hermana Dayton's teachings to the test. I have
always been someone who lacks organization skills, and she said that
if we want to be organized, say I am organized. Then get organized and
every time you put something away, say I am organized. After 21 days
it will be a habit. So I am making it happen, and my closet and desk
have never been so clean. I am striving to be as organized as
possible. I know it will be a blessing for my whole life.

It was nice seeing the family on Skype, sad that it had to be under
these circumstances. I love you all and I am glad everyone could make
it down for the funeral.

For preparation day, we went down and rented bikes on the Rambla. It
was a good time. The weather has been wonderful. Short sleeve is the
way to go.

This week I did an extensive study of the word zeal. It uses this
adjective to describe the way the Anti-Nephi-Lehis treated the
commandments. It was interesting to see that the defining difference
between them and the other Nephites was their zeal towards God and
man. I also believe that zeal is a defining characteristic of El Faro.
We can't just go through the motions or simply obey the commandments.
We need to be zealous in our obedience. Treat every part of this work
with marked enthusiasm. I hope that I will be able to emulate
zealousness in this coming week.

We were able to give out a least ten copies of the Book of Mormon this
week. We wanted to focus on its power, and the book pulled through. It
always does!!

Love you,
Elder Tyson

Mission Week 93: April 17, 2017

Glad everyone enjoyed the Easter season.

I know you hate my letters like this, but this week didn't have that much that went on. The weeks really blend together. I hope I can think of some details, but it was really simple.

We had the chance to go out to the home of a little old lady this week. She is one of the oldest members in Barcelona and is really struggling. She never gets visits, and due to health, it is difficult for her to come to church. She said the saddest thing is that she has let her garden die down. Well, we told her we have eight missionaries who will be by to fix up her garden. So we are going tomorrow to give service!!! It will be great!!!!

We had zone conference yesterday. It was wonderful. They gave us fancy fancy study journals! It was really nice of them.

This week our investigator J. made big steps. He has been having some very interesting days. He has been quitting smoking, and upon leaving his house in the morning to buy some cigarettes, he starts jogging and finds himself sprinting all around Badalona, tiring himself too much and forgetting about smoking. I believe the Lord is blessing him for his efforts that now he has to figure out what to do with all of his new found strength. We practiced with him how to say no to cigarettes when offered and he committed to never smoking again!!

Our brotherhood in our piso, will all be home and going to BYU.... and we are making big plans.... specifically a Disneyland trip!!!!!! We have already set the date!!! August 13-17.... this is real... haha... its going to be fun... hahah.... Elder Simon is from Australia so it will be fun.....

Life is great.... been thinking about school a little bit today.... I think you made some good points, and you are right... I need to go far in my studies. I can't settle for four years, the prophets have even counseled us to receive as much education as possible. So that is what I need to do.

Love you so much, thank you for your words of wisdom!!

Elder Tyson

 

 

Mission Week 92: April 10, 2017

Note: Some friends of the Wilhite's ran into Elder Tyson at church in Barcelona. We were so excited and thankful to get some pictures of him.

 

Hey Y'all!!!!!!

What a privilege it is to write another weekly report! It was a stronger week in the Badalona area, teaching repentance and baptizing converts. We had great opportunities to learn and teach during two intercambios, leadership council, zone enfoque, and interviews, just a full week.

We found quite a bit of new investigators this week through our investigator P. He is a Nigerian man with a big heart. He has studied with the missionaries for almost a year and never got baptized because he felt they were telling him and not his own Spirit. We sat down and read about the sacrament in the Book of Mormon. In the passage it explains that without baptism we can't partake of the sacrament nor have the Holy Ghost to be with us. He agreed and told us that his spirit was telling him to be baptized. We are so excited for his progression.

When visiting him later in the week we discovered that he was having a get together with six other friends. We sat down and they asked us to share the word of God. Elder Knadler and I weren't sure exactly what we could share, so we scanned the room and identified the best thing to teach, the Word of Wisdom. This place was filled with alcohol, cigarettes, and other choice substances. We told them that we were there to cry repentance unto this people and we taught the commandment. We felt power as we testified of the truthfulness of this law and promised them the knowledge of its truthfulness using John 7:17 which states, "If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself."

They all accepted the invitation to live the Word of Wisdom on the condition that we return and teach them about the interesting prophet who received this revelation, Joseph Smith. We gladly accepted the deal.

Today for preparation day, I got a well needed haircut, then we went to this huge antique market in Barcelona!!!! It is literally a treasure hunt!!!!

In our Zone enfoque we gave out seeds in dirt, and they can only water it when they invite someone to be baptized! It was fun, we hope they grow.

This week I had an experience I will never forget, a miracle, one might say. We were talking to a boy who was very content in his church, that all were correct, so it really didn't matter. So I asked him, "Does God have a body?" He responded no and said that Jesus was resurrected as a spirit. I explained that his statement shows that not all churches were true, because we all have different doctrines. For example we believe that Jesus was resurrected with a body of flesh and bone. He tried to challenge my statement so I took him to Luke 24:36-43 that clearly shows that he was resurrected with a body. He agreed, then said that after, he ascended to heaven without a body. Then I witnessed the miracle. The Spirit brought to my remembrance Alma 11:45 which clearly explains that the resurrection is final. There is no separation after. We testified of the the Book of Mormon, it's clarifying doctrines, and that he could know that it was true. We set up another visit, and we left rejoicing. That may have been one of the only times in my mission when the Bible and the Book of Mormon became one in my hand. The doctrines back each other up. We need both, and I am so grateful for that witness I received.

It was a great week, can't wait for this one!

Love,

Elder Kade Tyson

 

 

Mission Week 91: April 3, 2017

Folks!!!

Good things happening here in the Badalona zone this week, and even more so in the Badalona area! We had a great week and General Conference was fantastic!

I was so grateful for the announcement of the new temple in Saratoga Springs, Utah! I was telling all of the missionaries that they were going to announce one in Eagle Mountain for sure, so I lost control when it was announced that they were going to put one in the city right next to it. I felt bad for disturbing the reverence, considering that I literally leap out my seat and stared cheering. Missed being the family because I know they would have shared the same excitement with me. I immediately said a prayer of gratitude to the Lord for the temples, for the power that is manifested there, and for the restored Gospel that allows us to have our families forever.

My favorite talk of the conference was given by Joy D. Jones, the General Primary President. She spoke about honesty and how we should do things because we said we would. I thought about my own life, how many times do I really do the things I say I will? I am so grateful for the examples of integrity around me. I am inspired by mission leaders, family members, and great members who do what they say they would, and only because they said it. I hope that I can exemplify that characteristic in my life. I love how she finished by saying that Jesus Christ did all he did, because he said he would before this life. It reminds me of the many promises I made with the Lord before this life, before the mission, and through my covenants, and I can ask everyday, "am I doing what I said I would?"

Our area took some hits this week. We found out that several are moving and others do not live in our area, so we are hitting the streets. It will feel nice to wear down the shoes, sweat a little, and just contact. Of course we are also trying to work smart by setting up effective pass-bys and things but I love so solid time to hit the pavement, preach the gospel, and cry repentance! So grateful!

Today for preparation day we went to the zoo!!!!! It was so fun.... we really enjoyed it.

 

The miracle I saw this week may sound silly but it was a powerful moment for me. Our piso has hot water, but it decreases immensely when two missionaries shower, or use any hot water at once. Well, I was showering and I felt my water go cool. I waited for a minute or so wanting to finish my shower nice and hot. So I offered a little prayer, asking Heavenly Father to let me finish my shower as it began. As I said amen, the water immediately regained it's heat and I finished my shower both physically and spiritually warm. I said a little prayer of gratitude and it set me up for a great day. It may sound foolish, but it's the small miracles that make the biggest differences, I think.

Glad you enjoyed conference, and so happy for Allie!!! How is Kalee doing?

Love you,

Elder Tyson

Mission Week 90: March 27, 2017

Hey everyone!!!

So glad to hear that you are busy as ever!!! Typical Tyson family!!! SO HAPPY FOR ALLIE!!!!! I BET THE SHOW WAS INCREDIBLE!!!!!!! So sad I didn't get to see it....

This was a week of just putting our shoulders to the wheel. We had days of just work. It felt nice to just hit the pavement and just talk with people. The days flew by as we tried to use our time effectively. Not just doing one activity but focusing on different aspects of missionary work to help fufill our purpose. 

This week I have learned that it doesn't matter how we think, or how we feel, or what we or anyone believes. There is one truth, one doctrine is correct, "one Lord, one faith, one baptism". Everyday we hear people say that all churches are the same, or they believe one way and that is okay and they don't need to change, or that God is one way, or his ways are like this, or all that is important is be a good person. That is wonderful that they think those things, but at the end of the day, God is truth and we can think what we want, but God has his ways and we can't change them. We can choose to accept or reject them, but they will never change. We have to play by his rules, for lack of a better term, accept his contaracts, if we truly want to know him and feel his presence in our lives.

I think that throughout the mission I have grown in so many ways, and one of them being a direct defender of the faith. Early on in the mission, I would accept half truths that people share, hearing them out, then trying to use what they said and make it true. What I have learned is that when we accept half truths, they think we agree with them, and even though we try to change the lie, they still feel like they have got it right. As I have grown, and gained a true love for this people and restored truths of the restored gospel, I have become comfortable telling people that what they are saying is not true, and teaching them the true doctrine of Christ. It had amazed me as I have been simply bold in defending the truth, how so many people have responded in a positive way. They begin to recognize us as servants of Jesus Christ, they note our confidence, and the Spirit bears witness that our word are true.

Such was the case this past week teaching some new investigators, P. and O. We entered the smoke filled piso to find them ready not to necessarily listen, but to teach us. We begin and P. begins to tells us his version of the Gospel. We heard him out and testified that there is one way to know God (the topic of the discussion) and he can think however he wanted, but we know that there is one way and if they really want to know, they can try it. If it doesn't work, that's fine, but we knew that it would work, for it had worked for us. They seemed stunned, and yet the Spirit ended the room and O. said she knew our words were true. She has accepted a baptismal date and now progressing. I am grateful for my knowledge of the truth and the the strength and confidence I have gained in sharing it.

Love you lots,

 

Elder Kade Jay Tyson

Mission Week 89: March 21, 2017

March 21, 2017

I love you!

Transfers this week.... no changes for us!!! Stayed with Elder Knadler!!! Powerful!!! I still get to be a Badalona missionary!!! Crazy things happening this transfer, in fact, Zane is with Robert Allen... two Westlake boys together, classic!!

Preparation day was very calm, we cleaned, said goodbyes to leaving missionaries and tonight I have to take a new missionary out!!! Hoping to get some cigarettes to throw away!!!

Elder Knadler and I had the chance to teach in the zone conference this week. We taught about the power of persuasion, it was so fun, and I think we actually gave some good ideas to help missionaries be more persuasive. We talked about how we be like Nephi persuading Zoram, it was great.

Our miracle this week was with C. and C. They are incredible investigators who are progressing towards baptism next month. We went to their home and had only thirty minutes to teach and invite them to come to church with us. They accepted the invitation but weren't so sure how to get there. They then offered to take us to church! So Sunday we hopped in their car and they took us to church in their car. They loved the service and on top of it, we had three other investigators in church! It was a miracle to go from one or two a week and to finish the transfer with five. What a great way to finish off the transfer.

I am so excited to have another transfer with Elder Knadler! We are already working on a plan for the zone. We have incredible missionaries coming into the zone which is comforting knowing that we are losing a lot of strength as well. I am so grateful for the wonderful missionaries we have here. They work so hard, are striving to be obedient, and are seeing miracles.

So happy, excited for another six weeks!

Invite Daily, Baptize Weekly, Badalona
Elder Tyson

 

Mission Week 88: Tale of the lost iPad

March 13, 2017

Sagrada Familia,

This week has been a very good one indeed. I am so happy that I get to be serving here in Badalona. The weather is starting to warm up and so are the people. We found a lot of great potential and a good change of attitude have helped me a lot this week. Had a good PPI with the Savior, and he helped me figure somethings out. Then he put me to the test.

Now, don't be disappointed. I am not not perfect... You know I have tried to change and get better throughout the mission. You know how forgetful I can be. I am always going from one place to the next, not paying attention many times to what is behind or ahead, just living in the moment. Well, such an experience happened to me this week. We sat on some stairs to make some phone calls while I was looking at the map for the next visit. As we searched, some kids came by and tried to swear at us in english. So I start talking back to them, and we end up having a nice conversation and they had interest to come to English class. Well they left and we finished our calls. We headed to the visit, then back to piso. We arrived at piso and I realized my iPad was missing. Typical Kader Snots. I grabbed Elder Simon (Piso Mate) and we ran back up to where we were seated. But, as you can imagine, my iPad was taken.

This is where the test comes in. At first, I was angry and sad. All my photos, scriptures, everything lost. I was distrought and angry at myself. But, then I started to think, and realized that some family could probably sell that and eat for a couple of weeks, that all my pictures are on the iCloud photo sharing, and that it was going to be a great story to tell. I am grateful that the Lord humbled me enough to teach me how this was a blessing for others and not a tragedy to me.

I have been trying to find new ways to make my teaching style more dynamic, so this week I carried the Gospel art book to add some life and photos into the lessons. It worked out really well, I think I will continue to use it.

This week I re-started the Book of Mormon. It is a powerful book. I am trying to take it page by page, slowly but surely. I can spend a whole half hour on one chapter. It's been so inspiring to see the constant struggle of a family just trying to reach the promised land. I have always wondered why Laman and Lemuel left the comfort of Jerusalem if they were just going to complain the whole time. I realized, that when this family embarked, Laman and Lemuel probably didn't have a choice, they were too young. That's why Nephi and his brothers waited to marry the daughters of Ismael. It also shows the courage Nephi had in doing what he did at such a young age.

Our good friend J. is back on the map. He was gone for a couple of weeks, but now is back and is progressing rapidly once more. We have come to a knowledge of something that may be preventing hime from being baptized in the near future, but we are going to pray for him and help him quit smoking until he can. It was so great to have him back in church. He is from the Dominican Republic and has a deep past. We hope to bring him to the family night in the mission home this week.

I really admired how calm, cool, and collected Elder Knadler was this past week. We had our zone enfoque and he did a great job leading the zone and teaching will power and skill. We got into some tight contacts this week, and he did a splendid job of not being confrontational and sharing his testimony with all.

We had a zone meeting this week. You would have loved it. We had a teaching on diligence by a missionary and I requested the work work work quote. We had everyone bring a different object from piso, and we set up a park to do a contacting practice. Everyone dressed up and talking to others, tryin g to establish common ground. Just like mission prep. To end, we performed one of President Dayton's song, and I loved being back on the stage. I will send you the video next week when I have my iPad. We then talked about companionship unity and we set the goal that was some advice for me when I was leaving for the mission. Find one way to serve your companion daily. I am so grateful for your examples and what you have taught me. The meeting was very fun and the missionaries learned a lot! so great, thank you.

The miracle we saw this week actually came from a righteous hunch I had in the streets on Sunday. We had a scheduled visit with a member who was not answering the door, nor was their phone working. They live on the second floor and we were knocking the door and trying to make as much dignified reverent sound we could, trying to get their attention in the home. All seemed lost when I had the righteous hunch to say a prayer asking for help. We waited a few minutes more then I said, "Elder, if they don't come in thirty seconds, we are out of here." Fifteen seconds passed and the member appeared at the doorway. Miracle.

Love your same naughty boy,

Elder Kade Jay Tyson

Mission Week 87

March 6, 2017

Hi Friends,

The zone is doing really well, we finished February with 9 baptisms. Elder Knadler and I looked back and saw that the zone really pushed themselves, strived to be obedient, and saw great miracles.

I am grateful that throughout the course of my mission, the Lord has been able to show when I have needed an attitude adjustment, and I having been picking up on things about myself that show me that I need to be humble. My mom used note things like that all the time. She would tell me to go to my bedroom and come back when I was "me" again. I think that is the message the Lord has been trying to send to me this week.  I love the Lord, and I know he loves me enough to teach me and show me
how to be my best self always. I may have had a lower week, but that was because I made it that way. Now, turning to Christ he can help me change my behavior and have a glorious week. I love the quote from Ezra Taft Benson that states, "The Lord works from the inside out. The world works from the outside in. The world would take people out of the slums. Christ takes the slums out of people, and then they take themselves out of the slums. The world would mold men by changing their environment. Christ changes men, who then change their environment. The world would shape human behavior, but Christ can change human nature... Yes, Christ changes men, and changed men can change the world.”

We are excited about the progression of M., a reference from a member. She has already attended church twice and we had the opportunity to go with her to a ward activity we had this week. We haven't been able to really sit down and visit with her yet, but we are trying to set that up to really help her progress in the gospel.

The miracle we saw this week arrived when we sat down for our weekly visit with our convert, M. To our surprise, she had invited three friends to come and listen to our message with her. We taught the Doctrine of Christ and they all accepted invitations to be baptized saying it was always something they had wanted to do. Furthermore, when they asked how church worked, and how to pray and things, M. piped up saying that there was no need to worry, but that she would be with them every step of the way. Later, all three women noted that M. had changed a lot in the last month, much more peaceful and kind, and that was very apparent as she gave her testimony with confidence on Sunday during Sacrament meeting.

Elder Knadler is a great elder. So happy and bubbly. He makes everyday more fun and bright. He loves to laugh and joke, and have a great time. I have needed his good attitude this week to lean on. I am grateful for his support.

So, If you didn't already know this, Spain is like an old folk's home. Literally. You have people of all ages roaming the streets, and obviously I love talking to them and asking them their stories.  They tend to like to talk for a good thirty minutes, rambling about Franco, then they seem to run the minute we say the word Jesus. Such was the case with A. on Sunday. We talked to him and he had little interest. My interest was getting him to throw away the fat cigar he had hanging out of his mouth. We departed with little success, and I sang to him God be with you 'til we meet again, as he walked away. Returning back after a fired visit, we found him again and I asked him to tell me his story, but just chapter one. We sat down and he told us the first 20 chapters... Classic, But he also told us he loved to read, so we gave him our favorite book... good times.

Yesterday was incredible.  So we had our leadership council in the mission home, and after we needed a recording of him playing one of his famous mission songs so that Elder Knadler and I can play it in our zone meeting tomorrow. Well, he had some interviews so we waited and when he finished it was just us three. Obviously, he had to get warmed up, so he played a few numbers and we sang along. It was incredible. Just two elders on either shoulder of their President at the piano, singing without lyrics, what a sight! We sang probablyfour numbers and every time he would look at us and remark, "without any music brethren, I am impressed." We just giggled and kept singing.
The greatest part is that president doesn't just sing, he performs. We were laughing and having a great time. I felt like we really got to know President Dayton. He is an incredible human being.

Love you tons,

Elder Kade Jay Tyson

Mission Week 86

February  27, 2017

 

Father, Mother, Sisters, Brother,

Life in Badalona is a great one. We were so blessed to find some great new investigators this week that really have potential and to have a great intercambio with some elders in our zone.

I am learning so much from Elder Knadler. He is very much a peace maker. He is always trying to say things to leave everyone feeling happy and uplifted. We worked so hard this week to have more companionship unity. I think we are finally getting used to the teaching styles of one another and we are seeing great things happen for our efforts.

We found an incredible family this week, a mother and her son who had heard of and had listened to the missionaries over 16 years ago. We are so excited for their progression. We were able to set a baptismal date with them and they seemed really excited to read the Book of Mormon.

We are also teaching L., she is Chinese. It is interesting to teach her because she doesn't have a Christian background or really believes what we have to say yet, but she likes the message, she wants to believe it and is very interested in baptism. We have shared with her various lessons on a variety of different topics, but she was most impacted when we discussed the life of Jesus Christ and his baptism. She said she really wanted to witness a baptism so we took her the very next week. She loved the service.

The miracle we saw this week was finding and teaching M. We contacted her in the street during an intercambio and we sat down and taught her a lesson on prayer right there. We even sang her a hymn. She invited us back and we saw the same miracle as we taught her in her home. She loved the message of the Restoration and is preparing to be baptized in the coming month.

This week I learned from the scripture in Doctrine and Covenants section 121:7-8, "My son, peace be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment; And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high; thou shalt triumph over all thy foes." I love this scripture because it applies to all of the trials that we have and all of the problems we face. Nothing we pass through this life is permanent. God has a plan for us and everything we face is for our own good.

Today for preparation day we went to a fancy labyrinth! It was a lot of fun.... I also ripped my pants, trying to carry Elder Knadler after he twisted his ankle. 

Funny stories....

So two drunk men came and talked to us, and I told one of them that I liked his watch, so he took it off and tried to give it to me. I couldn't accept and when I denied the offer, his friend offered me one of his two smart phones. He put it in my hand, and turned to walk away. Can't lie, the temptation was real, but I returned the phone and we went on our way.

I always ask people if they want to quit smoking to start my contacts, because it is such a dirty habit. And they always say no or another day, and I ask them to give me their cigarette to throw it away, to help them. They always say no, but yesterday, a man actually gave me cigarette. I felt like a real superhero. I was doing super hero poses and everything. I was elated. It was so great!!

Excited for another great week!

Elder Kade Jay Tyson

Mission Week 85

February 20, 2017

 

Family Tots,

This week had a lot of up and downs, but I feel like it was what our area needed and our companionship.

It was great to see the progress of our converts here in Badalona. M. was baptized three weeks ago and was sustained as the secretary of the Relief Society this week. I was walking on cloud nine. To see a convert really be embraced by the members and embrace them as well. Also we saw great progression in J., who was baptized last week. He received the priesthood and we blessed the sacrament together this week. Thank you so much for the money, I was able to get him a shirt, and I ended up giving him lots of other clothes... it was good, cleaning out the closet! I was so proud of these converts, so blessed to have been part of their lives, of this teaching experience.

We had to drop a couple of families this week for lack of progression. Wonderful families who love a spiritual message, but that's all. We tried to help them understand the importance of reading the Book of Mormon and coming to church and they just aren't prepared yet. It's sad because the wife has made it all the way to Mosiah, but has no desire to come to church. We received a very strong impression to let them go, and I think it was the best thing for them. I hope they choose to accept the Gospel when another opportunity comes.

The zone is doing great. Our goal of inviting daily and baptizing weekly is working. We are on a 4 week streak with many baptisms planned in the weeks to come. We are so happy for every area, everyone is working hard and seeing miracles. I am so grateful that I get to serve with such great missionaries! Elder Knadler and I had our first zone meeting together, it turned out great. We gave out blue keys reminding them that baptism is the door, and we have the key to let them in, it's inviting! We are already planning for March, we are looking to perform one of President Dayton's hit numbers, Lamentations of a Companion. It will be great!!

For preparation day, we went and played soccer, got haircuts, and I got my suit pants repaired. Just wonderful. I think you would be proud we went to the grocery store and while everyone was picking out junk food, I was grabbing the vegetables. I love the broccoli. We are now in this grilled cheese phase, it's a great nightly snack.

Well I think that's it, love you lots!!!

Elder Kade Jay Tyson

 

 

Mission Week 84: It's not Badalona...it's Good-alona!

February 13, 2017

Hey Tyson Family,

Just a swell week in GOOD alona. We saw a miracle this week! J. was baptized!!!! It was incredible! He was so prepared, so changed. The service was so special. Though it started off rough.

The service was supposed to begin at six, and at six there were only four people there, us, President Dayton, and his wife. So, as you can probably infer, we were very stressed. Members stared to arrive, and our music player for the prelude wasn't working, so President Dayton got on the piano and started to play. That is the last thing we wanted to happen. Then J. and his aunt showed up, and his pants were too small. Yes, rookie mistake in not trying the pants earlier, but we switched pants and we were ready to go. The service began and the Spirit entered the room. Elder Knadler pulled off a three hour practiced piano piece, and I kept J. under water just long enough to really clean him. Dad Style. All in all a great service, great day. To be celebrated with root beer floats that night, priceless.

 Anyways, just a great week, getting used to Elder Knadler, saying goodbye to Elder Maurer, Elder Sedgwick and others. Sad day, but happy all the while!

Today for preparation day we went bowling, a personal favorite of mine. Started slow, but I had a great second game.

So that's about it!! Also, I got two packages, one with sees chocolates and one from the ward for Christmas thank you!!!

Love you all,

Elder Kade Jay Tyson

Mission Week 83: Goodbye Elder Maurer, Welcome Elder Knadler!

Querido familia, (hijo de corbata), haha just came up with that... just think about it.

Words can't express the emotions that have followed me during the span of these past six weeks. I have learned much and laughed greatly. I have seen a giant rise, grow, and teach me to follow in his mighty footsteps. I have been so blessed to have a great man like Elder Nicholas Maurer as my companion. He taught me that the Gospel is not just true emotionally and Spiritually, but also logically. God's plan is perfect, and we can know it through the Spirit, as well as through studying through with our minds.

Now on to the next chapter of the story. New companions, new adventures, new challenges, new people to find, and powerful testimony to be born. A new renovation of commitment and energy to the Lord. That is what awaits this majestic area of Badalona. We are starting a culture here, one that won't just last two or three transfers, but one that will change the way the mission sees the Badalona zone.

Elder Knadler came, had a fire in his eye as we picked him up from the train station. A glorious sight and a fire that may be the secret ingredient to the grand feast of this transfer. He is a great man, one I have known for quite sometime. I am thrilled for these days and weeks in which we have to serve together. He is from South Jordan. Just a really good kid!!!

Tonight we get to take out new missionaries!! It is very exciting!! We have some good visits planned so it should be fun!!!

Still very happy, no worries!!! Eating very healthy!!!

Speaking of, I don't think I was able to share with you my New Years resolutions so here they are. I wanted to go simple and yet push myself so tell me what you think

6 baptisms

50 push-ups daily

Re save my emergency fund

Memorize: Psalm 23, Matt. 11:28-30, Mosiah 4:17-19, D&C 121:7-8, Psalm 100,   Alma 36:18-21, 1 Corinthians 13:11, D&C 11:21, Ecclesiastes 3:1-4, Moroni 10:32

Each one of those scriptures has impacted my mission in some way or another and I want to have them apart of me. So far, I am completing with all my goals!! So it is wonderful!! I love you so much, I hope you all set some good goals as well!

Love you lots!

Elder Kade Jay Tyson

Mission Week 82

January 30, 2017

Howdy howdy!

It has been a marvelous week here in Badalona. I have felt so grateful for my area, my companion, and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We have received so many blessings that we can't every count.

It was wonderful to be at the worldwide training this past week. I learned that we should always compare our day to the doctrine of Christ. Did we have faith, did we change and repent, did we honor our covenants, did we follow the promptings of the Holy Ghost, and did we give more today than yesterday? I am excited for the mission changes and know that they are inspired. I am so excited to get out and be a better servant of the Lord.

Right now our most promising investigator is J. He is from Peru and has a baptismal date set for the 11th of February although he might get baptized this week. He is seriously a miracle. We found him searching for his sister, and we have taught him the first three lessons, he has attended church, sports, and a baptismal service. He is incredible. He has completely turned his life around. About a year ago he was very depressed and didn't find purpose in his life. Now he is vibrant, full of energy, and is wanting to learn. We are so excited for him to take the next step of baptism.

This week we saw the miracle of Baptism! M. took a leap of faith and was baptized. We met her on the last day of the year and she was looking for a change in her life, she accepted the invitation to be baptized and quickly progressed. As the baptism grew close, we learned of a concern that she had that would prevent her from being baptized. We left it up to her and the Lord, and when we returned she said that although it was hard, she knew she couldn't live without God in her life, and she was baptized. The service was wonderful, we did all we could to keep it reverent, considering there was a youth dance going on below. I am so astounded by the faith of these strong converts, they give hope to the future of the church in Spain.

For preparation day we hiked the famous Monserrat!!! I took many pictures!!!! It was an absolute blast!!! A great last preparation day with Elder Maurer!!! It was a steep hike, but well worth it!!

This is a big week coming up, the last week of Elder Maurer. We have big plans this week to help him finish the mission with a bang! We are excited for another week of hard work, blessings, and miracles!

Transfers will be wild, have no idea what's going to happen. Big changes in the mission schedule, longer preparation day, and different key indicators, it should be fun. Also, this week we have a mission tour with Elder Kearon of the Seventy!! It will be great!! We are in charge of getting 72 Dominos pizzas, pepperoni all the way!!! So excited!!!

So happy to be a missionary! Sounds like the family is doing great, congratulate Allie for me!! Thank you for figuring out my housing situation, whatever you need else you need from me, I am on it!

Love you so much, have a great week!

Elder Kade Jay Tyson

Mission Week 81: Happy Birthday Elder Tyson!

January 23, 2016

Hi Family,

Thank you so much to all of the birthday wishes!! It has been another great year! Yeah this week was great, M. is planning to be baptized and things, saw great miracles, Elder Maurer is doing fantastic, but I wanted to dedicate this letter to two things.

To be honest, I am pretty sure I have learned more in this year than any other year of my life. I have discovered life lesson that I know will have an impact for the rest of my life. I took the time in my personal study to write some things I've learned, and I would like to share them with you

• To obey is better than to sacrifice
• Celebrate the small victories
• This life is between me and the Lord
• There is a consequence to every decision, that may have an affect others around you
• Piano practice is never a good backup plan
• Talk to people at their level
• The Book of Mormon is the most powerful tool we have as missionaries
• Talk with the person who opens the door, when the person who was supposed to isn't there.
• "Pueblo work" is a clever way to waste time
• You know you are close to your companion when you can wrestle him
• Miracles sometimes occur when we are just sitting and waiting, but they always occur when we are actively seeking them
• The contacts we make when we don't want to contact, can be some of the most important contacts we make
• You can find something in common with every single person
• Baptism is the best way to spread love
• The byproduct of caring for a missionary is success in their area, not visa versa .
• Although we might be able to, nothing Gospel related should ever be done on the fly.
• Hymns sound much better when someone knows a harmony
• Eating with members is a great way to gain weight
• Now matter how good or prepared you think you are, someone or something will always come to show you that you are not.
• Don't be afraid to stress the little things, they are what make all the difference
• Creativity doesn't always mean arts and crafts
• Leadership is much more than hyping people up
• The more we lose ourselves in the service of others, the more we discover who we truly are
• Never quit
• The ideas of others may not be the right one, but they normally help lead to the right one, so be open to everything.
• You can't give all your heart, might, mind, and strength in the streets if you don't dedicate that same effort in the planning session
• It's better to be over prepared than under prepared
• We can't control how often they accept but we can control how much we invite
• We are the resource, not the source
• Missionary work should be simplified to two words, invite and testify
• Just because you believe in science does not mean God does not exist
• It really doesn't matter who the president is, what does is the status of our own home
• Families are forever

So there are many more, but those are just a few I wanted to list. I am so grateful for this past year, I hope that I can learn new things in the coming year as well!!