Happy New Year 12-31-08

Good day my friends. 
First of all MIRACLE! Julius Tago is a name that may be familiar for you! He is THE MAN. He is from Kenya originally and a referral we recieved from Patrick Keys (a member in central Edmonton.) WE recieved a phone call from Julius on Friday Dec 26th. His baptismal date was set for the 27th. He said, "Elder? We need to meet today I have to be baptized tomorrow." In reply we were nearly jumping up and down! 
An hour later we taught Julius lessons 1-4. He had already attended church 2 times and was prepared by angels to recieve baptism! What an amazing weekend. He was confirmed in sacrament meeting and is going to be a strong member of the church.
It's experiences like these that make me feel like all we can do in this work is rely upon God. It is He who provided all that was necessary for this miracle. I love this area!
Transfer calls have come and gone again. Elder Kipp and I are staying but the zone and district in which we serve have changed dramatically. I see great things in the future! 
It's odd to see missionaries leave. Elder Boulton is likely on a plan to Orange County right now. President Rhodes announced that as of yesterday, one third of our mission has been in the field under 7 weeks! That is a young mission. 
Though we are all in all young President Rhodes said, "there is no missionary that has been in the field that is any more capable than you that are now coming in. Yes we appreciate and respect the wisdom and experience of those that have been serving for longer. However, you have each been called, commissioned, ordained, endowed and set apart. You are ready to succeed."
He went on to explain that Charity, the pure love of Christ is what will get us where we need to be so that we may accomplish the "perfect will of God."
There are big things ahead for us all. If we will but pray with all the energy of heart we may obtain this Love that will lift our burdens, strengthen our arms and raise us onward to eternal life.
I love this work and my Savior. I love you and I'm so grateful for you!
Thank you,
Love,
Elder McCarty
(in the cold white north)