An Apostle Gives Counsel to Belize

Belize was part of the Central America area conference, that was broadcast to the entire region.  Elder Quentin L. Cook, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, presided.  In Belize, members gathered in 5 chapels equipped with satellite receivers.

We attended in the Orange Walk chapel, where also the Corozal saints traveled south 45 minutes to attend. Speakers were Elder Cook, Elder Kevin Duncan, Elder Adrian Ochoa, Sister Sharon Eubank, and Elder Craig Christiansen. We were truly strengthened by their messages.  

Afterwards we gathered outside for a photo of the Orange Walk and Corozal Branches.  

 With the Orange Walk Branch Presidency: President Nefi Gomez (center), 1st counselor William Stamp (left), 2nd counselor Antonio Novelo (right)

The Corozal Saints boarding the bus for their return trip.  

Last Monday for preparation day, we went with the Belize City Elders to Altun Ha to introduce them to this ancient city of the Maya.

We're in a season right now with unpredictable weather. We left our umbrellas in the car, unsuspecting...the inevitable? While visiting a friend, fierce wind with a torrential downpour erupted, almost blowing their tarp and Elder Magnusson away.  

This past week we were saddened to hear of the tragic school shooting in Florida.  This headline on LDSLiving.com caught my eye:

Family of LDS Teen Slain in Florida Shooting Releases Statement, Testifies of Eternal Families and God's Love

I was touched by what the family wrote in their statement: "...While we will not have the opportunity to watch her grow up and become the amazing woman we know she would become, we are keeping an eternal perspective. We are grateful for the knowledge that Alaina is a part of our eternal family and that we will reunite with her. This knowledge and unabiding faith in our Heavenly Father's plan gives us comfort during this difficult time."

Elder Cook gave a talk in the October 2011 General Conference titled, "The Songs they Can Not Sing".  Among other things he said:

...Sometimes tragedies are very personal. A son or daughter dies early in life or falls victim to a devastating disease. A loving parent’s life is taken because of a thoughtless act or accident. Whenever tragedy occurs, we mourn....We lament the things that will not be accomplished and the songs that will not be sung.

Among the most frequently asked questions of Church leaders are, Why does a just God allow bad things to happen, especially to good people? Why are those who are righteous and in the Lord’s service not immune from such tragedies?...

...While we do not know all the answers, we do know important principles that allow us to face tragedies with faith and confidence...

His talk continues as he teaches the principle of eternal life which brought me comfort and peace.

Click here to read the whole message or watch it below.

 

Below is a new mormonmessage produced by the church.  The Mormon Channel says this about the movie:  

It is good to accept the fact that we simply don’t know all things. We can’t see everything, but our Heavenly Father can. We have been given the promise that if we will search for the truth, study it out in our minds, and ask with a sincere heart, it will be confirmed to us. 

Heavenly Father is pleased with us when we seek to discover truths. He loves teaching us line upon line, precept on precept. As we strive to learn and have faith in Him, He will bless us to see things as they really are.

You can also see the video by clicking here

Friday night's beautiful sunset from Belize City.