31 December, 2015 - Trainer Letter

31 December 2015

Wade and Marci Jewkes

                                                                345 E 450 S
                                                                Hyde Park, UT 84318
                                                                USA



Dear Brother and Sister Jewkes,

Elder Benjamin Coy Jewkes has been given the new assignment to serve as Trainer of a newly arrived missionary. He has received this assignment because of his dedication and unselfish service and because of the confidence the Lord has in him. He is a fine missionary.

The position of Trainer is considered the most important assignment in the mission, for it is the Trainer who establishes the foundation for his companion's success and the ultimate success of the mission. We appreciate his willingness to be an exemplary missionary.

We thank you for your continued support and prayers for your missionary and the work in the California Riverside Mission.

Sincerely,

John H. Mullen, PresidentCalifornia Riverside Mission

28 December, 2015 - Pictures!!!

Tumble Weed Mayhem

The ZL's put a tree in our shower!

28 December, 2015 - Christmas Week

Dear Family and Friends,

This past week has been an interesting week with the end of another transfer and Christmas, but it was fun and full of hard work.

Tuesday was our weekly D.D.M. meeting and lots was learned about getting investigators to church. Afterward we were able to see a few people, especially Edmundo. He is in a rough spot and I know that the church can really help him, it is just that he doesn't know that yet. He is the priority we have currently.

Wednesday had our Christmas Devotional at the Bradley Building in Menifee with half the mission. There we collaborated on our experience with reading the New Testament this transfer and had our testimony meeting. After we had a brunch, saw a slide show with pictures throughout the mission, and gathered presents for Christmas!  After we were able to pick up 2 new investigators, Angel and Daniel. They have great potential.

Thursday we had our weekly planning on Christmas Eve. It has to get done after all. Then we had our weekly Book of Mormon Study and Jeffry Allen (Inactive) is starting to get better. We had a zone activity where we did a Nerf War in the cultural hall in the stake center. It was tons of fun.

Friday was CHRISTMAS!!! I got to open the gifts my family got for me (Thank you so much by the way), I got to Skype my family at Bishop Johnson's house which was the highlight of the day, and had an excellent dinner with the Hanson's. It was an excellent day.

Saturday I got a call from President Mullen... I was called to train a new missionary who will fly in on Wednesday. My hand was shaking during and after the call for a long time. I didn't know how to react. First of all, that's a ton of responsibility. Second, That meant that I'll be having my 9th companion in 6 months. Why!?!?!? We got to see a ton of people and got to see Edmundo again with some members and they clicked so well. So I learned that Elder Moss is going to Sun City (By Menifee) Sister Cramer is also training/Sister Training Leader (Sister equivalent to Zone Leader), Elder Frost (My companion until Wednesday) is training as well. Elder Mayo is finally leaving MoVal to go to Lake Elsinore and Elder Smith (Who was also in the MTC with me) is replacing him. This has been the most normal transfer call I have seen so far.

Sunday we finally got Edmundo to church!!! We might have pulled the "I'm leaving and I wanted to say goodbye" card but you gotta do what you gotta do. After Church, Elder Moss went back to Lake Elsinore for a baptism... on our last day together. Jerk. Meantime, I was with the ZL's and Bro. Garcia from the bishopric until he got back.

Today we got to get Elder Moss out of here, touch in base with Elder Frost and plan out the next couple days until we get our greenies. I hate transfer P-days. Too much stress.

Well, I love you all and I need to get going. I miss you all and I'll write next week with information about my new companion.

Elder Jewkes

No Elder Moss got booted out. I get to train a new missionary!!! Maybe I'll be with him for longer than 6 weeks! So I guess I'll get my new "greenie" during Jeff's funeral. Way to play with an apostle present. Let's get the Jewkes Family Orchestra famous! (Hehe)

22 December, 2015 - To Jeff

Hey Jeff,

I have heard about how you are doing. It breaks my heart to hear about your pain but I know that the Lord has a great plan for you and as you endure to the end I know that you will have many blessing to come, most importantly the opportunity to be with your family forever. If I don't get to see you face-to-face again, I just wanted to let you know that I love you and I have learned many things from you. You have been a great example and I know that because of the Savior this goodbye won't be forever. I will get to see you again in the Celestial kingdom. I love you again and I hope that things will be better. Have a Merry Christmas! There should be a Christmas card coming soon from my Mom since I didn't know your address when I sent it. I love you and constantly pray for you! 

Elder Benjamin Jewkes    



Jeff passed away Christmas morning. We started off our Christmas skype with the sad news.

22 December, 2015- Christmas Week!

Dear Family and Friends,

I am SUPER SORRY for E-mailing late. The system crashed halfway through the e-mail and we got permission from the AP's to finish our e-mailing at a convenient time that doesn't affect proselyting so here is my chance to quickly tell my endeavors!

Tuesday was like any other Tuesday with D.D.M and whatnot. Certain highlights include picking up an investigator named Carol who we contacted 6 weeks ago but never got a hold of. After a few tries we are told to stop because at that time it is wasting our time. So that is what we did. However, there were Spanish Sisters walking into our area and ran into Carol and set an appointment. Since Carol was now considered a referral, we got to try stopping by again and we actually got in and began teaching. It was one of those great miracle stories.

Wednesday was fun. We had some time to do service for Salvation Army. It had been a while since we were able to serve them and it was fun making certain packages for needy families. We always have fun with that. This week had been crazy because we got 12 referrals from some Spanish sisters Saturday night for the Sunday appointments and Sunday night for the rest of them. More miracles...it's that time of year I guess.

Thursday we were on exchanges. I stayed in my area with Elder Lanley who had only been in the field for 5 weeks. It is still kinda weird because he is 23. His trainer is 18. I think some days are awkward for them. While we were doing our weekly Book of Mormon Study, Jeff Allen, a Less-Active was being down on himself since his mom died about 2 or 3 weeks ago. We decided to stop by on Friday to help lift up his spirits. It was an awkward experience for Elder Lanley since he never met the guy. The exchanges were a great learning opportunity for me.

Friday was our weekly planning. We haven't have a regular planning session at the regular time all transfer since things kept popping up. We were able to meet with Jeff and we convinced him to come to all 3 hours of church for the first time in years since he was in a time where he needed Christ in his life. We also ran into another Less-Active who originally told us he didn't have time for a message, changed his mind after we were about to mount on our bikes and go home for the night. It was a touching and spiritual day for us.

Saturday was a good day. We had found a PMF (part member family) and the husband isn't a member but said he would be willing to be baptized. The wife and son-in-law living there are Inactive and won't get much support from them, but he seems interested. Maybe he can get the rest of his family back into activity. This week has been full of miracles. I love it.

Sunday was church. We as a mission had a special fast for the work and it kinda sucked because the one time the Gospel Principles teacher brought treats, we were fasting. At least we got to bring them home for later. Also, Jeff came to the whole 3 hours of church. He looked really good. Jeff isn't in a good financial situation and he didn't have the best of clothing but a member took him to the Bishop's Storehouse and got him some nice church clothes and a haircut. He was really happy to feel like he could worship like everyone else in nice clothing.

Monday was P-day. I was able to get my birthday present (a new camera) since things were busy with ZL's moving around and whatnot and we never got the time to do so. A P-day is a P-day. Not much more to say.

Today we just had our weekly D.D.M meeting and had lunch and got to Emailing. On the agenda, we got a few people to stop by and one set appointment with a Recent Convert. 

Whew, got it in. It felt like a lot of stuff to talk about but it was all good. This week has been a blessing for me in many ways that I can't count them on my hand and my companion's hands combined. I love you all! Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and whatnot.

Elder Jewkes  #ASaviorIsBorn




 That sucks about Jeff. That is super cool that a General Authority (if not an apostle) got to visit! Wow, that TV is huge! Did you watch the BYU/UoU football game on it? All the members are talking about it here. For the Skyping, Elder Moss and I will be doing that at Bishop Johnson's house at noon our time. (or around 12:00pm) I wish the ZL's could be there too, but they are going to Skype elsewhere. I don't have the address on me, but I can get it to you on Friday. Yeah a few of us are getting sick as well. Luckily I am fine and I do not want to get sick on Christmas for many reasons. The crazy thing is that the very next day are transfer calls! The ZL's are joking that Elder Moss and I will get doubled our and the ZL's will cover the whole ward. They are just jealous that we have ghetto. (Don't worry, it's better than Hemet )  I am SUPER excited to Skype on Friday!!! See you soon!

Pictures

Myself, Elder Battaglia (the other Elder that got sick), Elder Moss (my companion), and Elder Foy.

The Redlands Temple

Redlands Temple with Elder Cornia, 2nd of 8 companions.

Myself and Elder Moss

14 December, 2015 - Holiday Greetings!

Dear Family and Friends,

It has been a Holly, Jolly season so far in Moreno Valley. No snow but it's still alright. It has been a good week.

Tuesday We had a special training by Elder Puskas about Bike Safety and Car Safety. It was good. There were videos on safety and maintenance. It was also ZDM this month and it was really good. It focused on obedience to mission rules and to feel the spirit and help others feel it as well. After ZDM, we tried to visit some members to show the new Christmas Video and did the usual things

Wednesday we had a lot of appointments that fell through, but we were able to set up some new ones with people we probably wouldn't have met otherwise. We also tried visiting some Less active members and potentials. We learned that one of our recent converts was moving to San Diego and we got his new address so we can send his records there. We also had dinner with my favorite members, the Nunley's. We always have fun there.

Thursday was our temple trip to Redlands. Before we left, we heard that a Less active's (Jeff's) mom had passed away early in the morning and we borrowed the ZL's car to get there ASAP. I felt so bad for Jeff. We reemphasized the Plan of Salvation with him and gave him some personal time. It was sad, the body was still there. We left before the Coroner came. It was a depressing start for the temple, but we were able to put Jeff's name in the temple. The session was great. We had Cafe Rio afterward, got home and got a few lessons in.

Friday was our weekly planning which is usually on Thursday's but the temple trip got in the way. I Don't think we had a normal planning session at the normal time this transfer. Crazy. We were able to pick up a new investigator, find some PMF"s and shown the video to a few more members. It was a good day.

Saturday we picked up 2 more investigators, met with some older ones who were struggling, and attended our ward Christmas party. It had a Polar Express theme with "railroad tracks" (Tracks made with Duct tape on the ground) which were kinda cool and the food was great. Turkey Dinner!!!

Sunday was church. No investigators came this week but hopefully next week we'll get more. We also went to a Missionary fireside, which is a Polynesian version of a farewell. It had lots of singing and food. The missionaries even had parts in the last number, for the last minute or so of the song. We also got another investigator. Hopefully, these investigators are solid and come to church.

Today we helped the ZL's to start moving out. We started with the heavy things with the whole zone and they will gradually move their stuff little by little so that they won't have a huge mess to organize. We also got some haircuts and are currently Emailing. Tonight, the Garcia's will drop off some Chinese food since our dinner appointment had to cancel and try to contact some referrals the Spanish sisters gave us yesterday.

It was a good week and this week has a lot of potential if all goes to plan. I hope you all have a Merry Christmas. I am just jealous that you guys got snow. Until next time.

Elder Jewkes

Answers:

 I can't believe Cameron changed his mind! What happened? I remember the Christmas parties! We had our ward party so far. There will be a mission party on the 23rd I believe with half the mission. Not 100% sure yet. I hope that Bro. Anderson is doing ok and that he feels better soon. I got my box on Wednesday and I enjoyed it!!! I like the little tree! So cute. Ok, for the apartment situation, the ZL's are moving out this week to their old apartment. Apparently the Jensen's (Senior Couple Missionaries) wanted the bigger apartment the mission found. We had some Elders come this morning to help move a ton (literally) of weights. Elder Foy apparently collected dumbbells, bars, weights, and 2 benches. He has his own portable Gym for 2. We'll see if I stay with the same companion. I would be totally shocked as well if that happens! Peeps are doing good. We have been finding more investigators this holiday season. When I first got here, there were no investigators and now there are 8 and counting. The temple was amazing as usual. It seemed smaller than last time, but oh well. The last time I went, I went with my 2nd companion in the field. This time, I went with my 7th in the field. In 12 weeks! I had as many companions that most missionaries have 18 months in. Something big is going to happen. I can just feel it. Elder Moss and I will Skype with the Hanson's who have a daughter on a mission and their son just left on the 2nd. Not sure the exact time yet. Will keep ya posted. I have found that a GPS is very useful, even on bike. It helps plan out your route and find member's homes. Best moment? Living with the ZL's. They like to have fun, but they help us be better missionaries at the same time. Cafe Rio was the best thing I ate. Our member who took us paid for all 4 of us. We were so so so grateful. Scripture: Isaiah 9:6 and Matt. 1:23 . I miss you already, plus the apartment will be cleaner now that the ZL's will move out.

7 December, 2015 - Another Week

Dear Family and Friends,

Things has been interesting around here in MoVal. Another missionary going home and the whole San Bernardino thing. Everything is good though.

Tuesday our weekly DDM meeting where we as a district decided to strive for 20 lessons a week during the holiday season and work on keeping dinner appointments an hour or less as stated in the handbook. Afterward we were able to get 3 lessons in today with an investigator and a Less-Active/Recent Convert. We had dinner at our Ward Mission Leader's home and talked about the work in the Lasselle ward.

Wednesday was also good. We got 4 lessons in today. We ran into one of our investigators in the street on our way to a Recent Convert who disappeared. We set an appointment for tomorrow after talking on the street for about an hour. We also ran into a less-active who used to go on team-ups with the missionaries. We asked him to come to an appointment with us but he said he wanted a week to get in shape spiritually. Also got super close to getting 2 new investigators. We showed them the Christmas video and invited them to learn more but they said they weren't at the time in their lives to look for a church. At least the seed has been planted.

Thursday we had 5 lessons which is really good. We met up with Ed, the investigator from yesterday. He is really interesting in the "Mormon". We also had our weekly Book of Mormon Study, met some members and had a lesson with Jose, who is 14. I don't think they are too interested if they ask how much longer you will be coming to his house. Also our mailbox was broken. When we went to check mail it was open and the lock was broken off. We told the front office and they said they'll work on it.

Friday wasn't as good. We had our weekly planning since Thursday was busy. The mailbox got fixed, but they just replaced the lock which meant we had to get a new key. Luckily there was no charge and now I have a key for nothing. I'll keep it and call is my Priesthood Key. After that was said and done, we only had 3 hours to work before we had to report to the Stake Center for the Creche festival. It was also the night we had exchanges so we started the exchange there since Elder Olsen, the DL was there as well. I guess Elders Moss and Lanley got 2 lessons in afterward since they left with the ZL's early since there wasn't a big enough of a turn out for 6 missionaries.

Saturday I was on exchanges with Elder Olsen in the Hidden Springs Ward, It was a good day. We met with a Less-active and their Ward Mission Leader, had Lunch at Subway, like when Olsen was on exchanges with the ZL's earlier this week, met some members in Retcher Canyon on the North Boarder of the mission, got smoothies since a member just dropped $40 dollars for the both of us. The money stayed in the area. We had dinner and went back to the Festival since Olsen had investigators coming. Then, we exchanged back. Meanwhile, Elder Moss got 5 lessons in our area with Elder Lanley which totals up to 7 since we exchanged.

Sunday was church, then we had a "Break the Fast" at the Merrill's, watched the new Christmas video, and watched the Christmas Devotional...which was broadcasted at the Festival. So I went to all 3 days!!! Which was really fun because there was music also. 1 Lesson and the total was 21 lessons for the week. Goal Achieved!

Today we went bowling as a Zone, I got a 136 and a near turkey! New high score!! Then we got lunch, currently E-mailing, then we will get haircuts, shop, eat dinner at a Member's and get back to work.

This week was really good. Yet, there is always room for improvement. I am looking forward for the upcoming week. I am OK with all the craziness happening around the area. I miss you all and have a happy Holiday Season!!!

Elder Jewkes

P.S. A lot of Members in the Hidden Springs ward has connections with Cache Valley which is super cool. Some of our members do as well. Most people talk about Salt Lake or Provo. There is more Utah than Salt Lake and Provo people!!!



Answers:

 It took me awhile to register that as well. For our zone, we got a call from our Zone Leaders and they told us to continue Proselyting with extra caution. Also heard about a violent robbery in the Riverside Mall recently. The world is too crazy! Nice, my own shrine!!! Can I see a picture of it? Cookiekah is going strong then? There are some decorations up in the apartment. There are still 4 elders for at least another week. I hope they move out before they exchange with the AP's. They are kinda intimidating.  The transfer calls are the day after Christmas so I am spending Christmas in Moreno Valley. (At least it's not Hemet right?) The weather is alright. It started to warm up again. I wear a sweater at night not because it's cold, but for the stupid wind chill from bike riding. I feel like a wimp. Moreno Valley is pretty big, there are defiantly palm trees but not a ton, there are "mountains" in the area. Most of the good sized mountains are by Hemet/Idyllwild area. A little smog, 7 wards: 5 English, 1 Spanish, and 1 Samoan. I never thought of taking pictures of Church houses. Will do. A lot of our investigators are teens in high school and with finals they are really busy, but William is doing alright. There is an investigator named Edmundo Bonilla who is really stuggling: anxiety, family issues, payments, etc) so it would be great to pray for him. Is Kyall praying for my current companion or for all 8? Does she even remember all 8? I barley can. Not much from Salt Lake for now. I heard from other missionaries the Christmas contact will be via SKYPE.

2 December, 2015 - Shooting Information

2 December 2015

Dear Brother and Sister Jewkes,

We write to let you know that there has been a shooting in San Bernardino today, which is just north of the California Riverside Mission.  The gunmen are on the loose and still need to be apprehended.  We have notified all of our missionaries in northern part of the mission nearest to San Bernardino.  Other areas of the mission are at least a half hour away.  We are accounting for all missionaries in the northern part of our mission and are asking those missionaries on the north side of the mission to return to their quarters.

Rest assured that the safety of our missionaries is our highest priority.  As always, we thank you for your support of your sons and daughters as they serve the Lord here, and appreciate your prayers in their behalf.

With our love and appreciation,

President John H. Mullen and Sister Jana

President John Mullen and Sister Jana Mullen

PART  2

Dear Brother and Sister Jewkes,

With regard to the shooting in San Bernardino, the police have issued an “all clear” and lifted the “shelter in place” warning even in San Bernardino.  The police pursued the shooters into Redlands, which is also outside of the California Riverside Mission.  They shot and killed the two individuals who were definitely involved.  While they are not sure that a third person was not involved, they have detained that person as well.



All missionaries in the California Riverside Mission are safe and accounted for.

Again with our love and gratitude,

30 November, 2015 - Thanksgiving Week

Dear Family and Friends,

This week has been interesting being a Holiday and all that. Holidays on the mission are way different than at home.

Tuesday we had our weekly D.D.M meeting and we were able to pick up 2 new investigators. One is a 15 year old named Shamir and a guy in his 50's? named William. They both seemed interested and have potential. We also had our weekly meeting with the Smith's to ponderize the scriptures. This week is Proverbs 3:5-6.

Wednesday we had our interviews with President Mullen. It was good. He really helped me to get the members more involved in the work and how to get more referrals from the members. We also picked up a 14 year old named Jose. He might need to be more enthusiastic, but seems solid.

Thursday was Thanksgiving!!! We played flag football with the Samoan ward. Nobody died, just a twisted ankle. There was also a pie fight with the Merrill's (Members) and Dinner with the Nunley's (RC) who had Jewish parents so not much religion was really discussed. After we had a zone activity. It was mostly soccer.

Friday we had our weekly Book of Mormon Study. We read 2 Ne 28. We also got do our weekly planning since Thursday was Thanksgiving so not much was done. We were able to take one of the Priests with us on a team up and It reminded me of when I went with the Elders that one time. Fun times.

Saturday was a sick day no nothing was done. Elder Battaglia (one of the other missionaries) and I got sick (food poisoning maybe?) and we stayed in all day. It was rather boring. There was one missionary in each companionship that was healthy so work was done in both areas of the ward. Not much luck I heard.

Sunday was church and we prepped so that the other elders could move in. The other Elders of our ward were getting kicked out so that one of the Senior Couple Missionaries can move in and work in Moreno Valley and our apartment is a 2-bedroom which in missionary terms is a "4-man". Luckily, we live in the same complex so it shouldn't be too bad to move. It will be interesting how it will turn out. Supposedly, the housing coordinators said that they would be at our place 2 weeks max. Or it might be longer. Who knows.

Today the other Elders officially moved in. The Office Elders came to help us move the heavy stuff since we had to gut out their apartment. Others came later to finish up. It took us about an hour and a half. Then we got Emailing, lunch, finish E-mailing (we got interrupted half way through), shopping, all that fun stuff.

Well, I guess I can't get a normal transfer. Oh well, that makes it more exciting right? Next week I'll let you all know what it is like to live in a 4-man with the Zone Leaders. Love you all.

Elder Jewkes

Answers:
 Yes I survived the football game. They are Samoan, apparently they don't like getting mixed up with Tongans. Don't ask why I wouldn't know. After the game, we had a "Pie Fight" with the Merrill's (Members) then official Thanksgiving Dinner with the Nunley's (Recent Converts). It was interesting. Their parents are Jewish converts so there wasn't really much talk about religion and It was kinda awkward when we first got there because we showed up the same time they did. Then we had a Zone activity with all the missionaries in the Stake. We mostly played soccer. I'm sorry you didn't feel well. Honestly, I was sick on Saturday with one of the other Elders so our companions tried to do work in both areas. The other sick Elder was worse than I was. We think it was a pie we had at a member's from Thanksgiving, but we don't know for sure yet. Christmas time is always fun! I enjoy listening to Voice Male. It reminds me of home. Also, something you would really like and be jealous about is that this stake has an annual Christmas festival this week where it includes music from different schools and churches and a rather large display of Nativities. I'll have to take pictures for you so that you can see them all. It's a 3 day event and I am not sure which day I am assigned to go. We'll see. We have investigators, but they don't come to church so we got to teach them all about the Sabbath this week so that they will come. Our Temple day is December 10th which is next week. That is always fun to go to. It is smaller than the Logan Temple but the spirit is the same.

 

23 November, 2015 - Another Week

Dear Family and Friends,

It has been another week in the mission. Got through the first week of a new transfer being the senior missionary of the ward. Elders Battaglia and Foy were doubled in and my new companion is Elder Moss. Elder Moss is from Riverton, Utah and we were in the same MTC room so it was kinda fun to be with him again.

Tuesday we did some service with the Salvation Army and were able to meet with some people and we helped the youth assemble meals for needy families in the ward and delivered them. There was pizza afterward so FREE DINNER! It was a fun day for the both of us. However, Battaglia and Foy were sick so that wasn't good.

Wednesday we did our weekly planning since we had DDM on Thursday since our DL was in Riverside waiting to get his trainee. It was a day that could have gone better since we got no lessons in, but those days happen and you just need to keep going. We had dinner with the Nunley's, who we will be with for Thanksgiving. That family is always fun to be with.

Thursday was our DDM meeting which was really good. We were able to get some lessons as well as a Weekly Book of Mormon study with some Less-actives and Recent-converts. We read 2 Nephi 27 which was about the coming forth of the Book of Mormon which was really cool. Elders Foy and Battaglia were feeling better so they were able to get some work done. We had dinner with the Tatums who loves the missionaries since they have a son on a mission right now.

Friday was good. We started to work on our Part Member Family list and our Prospective Elder's list and found a few people to teach with those valuable resources. Just the usual work. We had dinner with the Hunter's with a single mom and 5? kids. It was crazy and fun.

Saturday we had came into a family that had a nonmember husband and an inactive wife and they were really nice. They asked us to come back since they rarely get visitors. So that is our next goal: reactivate the wife and baptize the husband. We basically spent the whole day contacting families in the PMF list. We had dinner with the Hanson's who has a son leaving in a few weeks to serve a mission in Argentina. Exciting!

Sunday was great. The 3 new Elders were able to meet some of the amazing members of the Lasselle Ward and had some good talks. After church, we had steaks with the Sadler's, an old couple with some grandchildren. It was fun. After, we were able to meet with some of our investigators who didn't come to church and found out why so hopefully they will come next week.

Today we were in Riverside for Cross-fit, getting stuff from Elder Battaglia's old apartment, meeting Elder and Sister Reed who will be leaving in December, E-mailing, and soon shopping before going to work.

It has been an interesting week and sounds like an interesting transfer, but I guess all transfers had been interesting so far. I have learned that all you need to do to have a strengthened desire to serve is to look in a different perspective. Elder Moss has taught me how to have a more optimistic attitude (since I already have a good attitude). That is all for this week and I'll write you next time.

Elder Jewkes

23 November, 2015 - Angel email:]

Hello families,

We had the pleasure of having your missionary's in our home this last Saturday. They are good young men who definitely bring a sweet spirit with them. I wanted to share a picture with you because I have one daughter serving and one son leaving next week to serve and I know I LOVE receive pictures. Have a wonderful week and a very happy Thanksgiving. 

Janell Hanson

22 November, 2015 - Angel Text:]

16 November, 2015 - A New Transfer

Dear Family and Friends,

This past week has been interesting. It was the last week of the transfer as well as my first Mission Birthday!

Tuesday we had our monthly ZDM meeting and it was really good. It had inspired us all to work harder and to have a strong desire to serve. It had been really helpful for me. The highlight of the day was to go make little stockings for the primary kids with the Young Women. It was really fun. Along with working as usual, that was a normal day.

Wednesday was my Birthday and we so happened to have a multi-zone conference talking about the new Christmas video that the Church will release on the 29th of November. Look for it. It's really good. The birthday package was delivered by the Mission President and his wife at the end of the meeting...in front of 55 missionaries. It was interesting. I also had a new investigator for my B-day. Yay!!! Afterward, we went to a member's soccer game in the evening and it was really fun.

Thursday was our weekly planning and weekly Book of Mormon Study. We also picked up a new investigator today as well. Things are starting to pick up in the area and I hope that this next transfer will bring many blessings for hard work.

Friday was kind of a slow day. Our Zone Leaders were on exchanges and the missionary that was with the Zone Leader was sick so we helped him out so they can get work done in the area. Which took time from our area. We were able to get some done, but not as much. Too many people are getting sick around here. I best be careful. Also, an appointment fell through so it wasn't as good of a day, but those days happen.

Saturday was like Friday, except we had more time and worked harder to teach. It's just that no one was home or able. It was also the Adult Session of Stake Conference and President Mullen was present and speaking. Afterwards, we convinced him to tell us the transfers instead of waiting for the call from the AP's. So, both the Zone Leaders are leaving. One is going home and the other is going Chinese. A new district is being formed in the zone, there are 2 trainers that were called, a Spanish sister and an English Elder. I am getting a new companion, who happened to be one of my roommates in the MTC and the only missionary staying in our ward... out of the 4 of us. This next transfer will be interesting.

Sunday was Stake Conference which was really good. After, I went with Elder Warren to say his goodbyes before he goes to China-Land while Elder Catchatoorian took Elder Dunn to say goodbye to members in the Valley View ward. I can't believe that out of the 4 missionaries in our ward, 3 of them are leaving. I got some shoes to fill in.

Today we need to get Elder Dunn moved to the Home Share in Valley View, Email, get a new camera and move the new Elders into the Lasselle Ward. It's going to be interesting.

I have been reflecting lately about my mission and all the new companions that I had so far. I am learning so much from each one and I am blessed to know all these great people. I hope to learn a ton from Elder Moss and I'll write next week about him.

Elder Jewkes

Answers to mom:

 Yep, the Early Cake came from the Tatums. We call Sister Tatum "Mom" because she takes us in like her own sons. There are 4 missionaries in the Lasselle Ward and it is really big. My area is 2 Blocks by 10 Blocks and the rest of the ward goes way down. The drive from the top to the bottom takes about 15 minutes or so. The teaching pool is starting to pick up since I got here and we have gone by so many people. Elder Moss was actually one of my roommates in the MTC so that'll be fun. I will be staying in the Lasselle Ward in MoVal. The other companionship is being doubled-in which means that both the Elders in the area are leaving. Elder Catchatoorian is going home and Elder Warren is going Chinese (with the Chinese he learned in high school so you can pray for him in specific) which means I am the Veteran Missionary in the ward...by a good 6 weeks. Yay. Yeah I got the invite for the Court of Honor. I hope it was fun. Is there a stuffed animal representing me like the tiger represented Trevor? Just curious.  I have been getting the letters and yes I am at the same address. I haven't gone to buy a camera yet but we plan on doing it today before our new companions move in since I'll be going back on bike. Easy come Easy go for the cars I guess. For Christmas... some dress pants would be nice. I also enjoyed the presents in the package and that Enos Action Figure thingy was really cool. I kinda want to collect them all so if I can get a collection going throughout the mission that would be fun. My shoe size is 11.

11 November, 2015 - HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BEN!!!

9 November, 2015 - Office Christmas info

9 November 2015

Dear Brother and Sister Jewkes,

It is our great opportunity to serve with your son, Elder Benjamin Coy Jewkes. We are grateful for your willingness to loan him to the Lord and thankful that we may work alongside him. This is a wonderful time to be a missionary. Many people are looking for guidance in their lives. Parents are seeking a safe path for their children. The light of Elder Jewkes shines brightly in a darkening world.

Thank you for supporting Elder Jewkes through email and letters. Thank you for your prayers in his behalf.  Your love and support mean so much to him. We will write about Christmas phone calls in the next letter, but perhaps it is time to give some thoughts on Christmas gifts.

Important:  Mark non-Christmas packages DO NOT HOLD. All other packages will be held at the office between now and Christmas so that we can deliver them at our Christmas conferences.

Please remember that a mission is a time of consecration for missionaries. Gifts that do not take their focus off the work are best:  clothing, side-bags to replace backpacks, restaurant gift cards, pens, personal grooming items, appropriate music or art (that which draws their thoughts to the Savior), family pictures. Please do not send:  books not in the approved missionary library, dart boards, bow and arrow sets, etc. (think apartment damage), knives, games that take more than a half hour to play (they can only use them on preparation day), things that will disturb other apartment dwellers (think noise).

Please mail Christmas packages to arrive at the mission office by December 10.** Mail or ship to the California Riverside Mission Office, 5900 Grand Avenue, Riverside CA 92504. Packages will be held in the office and delivered on either December 22 or 23.

 * This prevents packages from being stolen from beneath apartment mailboxes.

 * It prevents anxious missionaries from succumbing to the temptation to open their gifts and eat their treats ten days before Christmas! :-)

 * It prevents packages from getting lost when missionaries must move.

We understand that missions are expensive and that a family's circumstances can change quickly. Every year people offer to help with gifts for missionaries. It would be our joy to help Elder Jewkes receive Christmas gifts if you are unable to send them. Let Sister Just know by calling 951-788-9690.

With love,

President John Mullen and Sister Jana Mullen



** If you choose to mail your missionary's Christmas gifts to their apartment, please call the office (951-788-9690) and let us know. We will carefully track missionaries who have not received packages by December 10th and purchase gifts for them.

Also, please share this information with other family members who may be sending packages.

9 November, 2015 - Hey Guys!!!

Dear Friends and Family,

This week has been a good week. There were some ups and downs, but it was overall great.

Tuesday I was on exchanges with our District Leader, Elder Olsen. He has been out as long as I have and he is already a district leader. That is so crazy! He is a really good guy and really inspires us to work harder like a leader should. So we did the usual missionary stuff, except it was kinda cold. It started to rain a little, luckily I was inside for dinner when it did. We had a lot of fun together while we got some work done today. It was also National Sandwich Day so we got 2 foot longs for the price of 1!

Wednesday one of our zone leaders was sick so us and the DL companionship took turns babysitting the sick one so the other one can do their appointments and contacting. It was good to do. The sick one took me out while Elder Turner was stuck inside week 2 of the transfer so I was simply returning the favor. The funny thing is that the sick Elder didn't believe he was sick but you can hear it. We still got lessons and stuff in for our area while helping the Zone Leaders get their stuff done.

Thursday was alright. We had our weekly planning and stuff. Nothing extraordinary really happened. Missionary work is extraordinary of coarse, but nothing out of the usual, I guess.

Friday was interesting. We had good stuff planned, but Elder Dunn had to go to Urgent Care because he has a rash thing in his elbow-pits and it flames up on and off so we spent an hour at the doctors, an hour for lunch and an hour waiting to pick up the creme. It was a lot of waiting! Other than that, the day was good. We were able to pick up a new investigator!

Saturday we helped some kids by tutoring at some learning center thing and it was fun. It has been a while since I studied that kind of stuff, but once I got into the swing of things, it was fun. We had to drop an investigator, Kato since he wasn't really putting in the effort to learn. I guess you get one you lose one. Agency, I guess. Jacob, another investigator seems solid though. He is a really cool guy trying to get his life started and his little brother is a member and he wanted to learn more.

Sunday was mixed emotions. Jacob didn't come to church...again...after saying he would for sure.I guess we need to talk with him soon. Church was good. The YM presidency talked about service, Elder Warren taught Sunday School about the spirit world, and we had a blast with the primary. Love the little kids! After Church, I got a ride with a member to go to a baptism in Hemet and I got to catch up with some good friends in my first area. It was a ton of fun! After the baptism, we went to a stake fireside where Peter Vitmar spoke. Vitmar is an Olympic gold medalist in gymnastics from the 1984 Olympics. He talked about preparing now so you can stand up to the pressure later.

Today I think we are going to clean up, grocery shopping, laundry, usual P-Day stuff after e-mailing so nothing exciting.

So the lesson of the week for me is that everyone has their agency and you can't make them do anything so you just got to love them. With Kato and Jacob, you just got to be there and be an example so that they can find out for themselves the truth.

It was a good week. I love you all! I'll let you know what happens next week. Till next time.

Elder Jewkes


Answers to my email

It is going good. We had to drop one guy because he isn't showing any interest and not doing anything to progress. We have another one that is getting close to that. We picked up a new guy. Hard to tell where he'll go at this point. I am not sure what the handbook change is. The members are great. They take great care of us. Some give referrals more than others. Training is good. Sister Palmer is really nice! I met her once to see Elder Turner before he went home. It is starting to cool off here. It was raining in certain parts on Tuesday. I didn't really get any though. I think Kyall's got here Friday, I don't think I got Charlee's or Grandma's but I haven't checked the mail today so we'll see. We are still in car. As long as I am with Elder Dunn, we get a car but we really don't really need it because the area is small so we don't have a lot of miles. We'll see what happens next week in the the new transfer.:

2 November, 2015 - Bonus stuff!

Part of the email I sent Ben followed by his answers:

Service. Seems like you have some "fun" opportunities. Tell me, do you see lots of lizards there? Any strange bugs?

Spanish. Maybe you will learn some more whilst you are out. Seems like lots of opportunities!

Primary. Of course Primary Program after party is the best! How was the actual program?

Food. Appears you are eating well. Do you have dinner appointments every night?

Training. What the what? You just barely got out of training! How is it going? I bet you are doing great!

Companion. Elder Dunn. We know some Dunns. Where is he from? Good thing you are easy to get along with considering how many companions you've had. Maybe you will set the mission record!

Rain gear. What did you inherit? Let me know what else you may need.

The "1B4 your birthday". Any birthday requests? It is coming up so fast!!!!!

Facebook page. Yep, been stalking that for a while. I actually saw pictures of you arriving in the airport the same day you got there! Love Elder Puskas and Sister Palmer. They keep us updated. I LOVE seeing your face. It always has the biggest smile! It looks like you are healthy and happy. They post a lot of updates from missionaries around the mission, which is fun to see.

Letters. Kyall was SOOOOO excited to get mail! She loved your letter:] As did all of us.

Apartment. Keeping it clean? Make sure to take pictures! Speaking of....

Pictures. Keep em coming!


Answers:

Service- At least 4 different lizards and just cockroaches. We even watched a lizard eat a cockroach.

Spanish-For sure. The Halloween party with the Spanish ward was a shock when I didn't know what they were saying.

Primary- the actual program was amazing! There is always those few kids that makes everyone laugh.

Food- yep we are set for the next week or two.

Training- it doesn't even feel like training because we are constantly learning from one another. Dunn is really good with people and I am good at adsorbing info.

Companion-I'm not sure if that's a good thing. Plus I 'll have to compete with Elder Warren (hehe)

Rain Gear- I got a basic rain jacket with a hood so I think I'll be good. I could use something to keep my shoes dry.

Birthday- If I could get a better camera that would be great. This one has no flash and since it gets dark earlier, less time for pictures. Money or Camera will be good. Kieth gave me a $20 gift card to Target so maybe I can buy it there. Which ever is easier for you. 

Apartment- we got some work to do but it isn't a total disaster. Part of it is Elder Dunn's stuff all over. 

Did you guys really open California Adventure again? Aren't we lucky. Everyone's costume was great. I just pulled off a "Elder Rambo" look with my tie on my head. Elder Catchatoorian made a convincing and creepy Joker and Elders Mayo and Reeve were good savages. The red-head Sis. Cramer was Merida from Brave. Elders Dunn and Dall had those rubber Giraffe and Deer heads. Everyone enjoyed the cake FYI. I loved the package!

2 November, 2015 - Another week in Mo-Val

Dear family and friends,

How was Halloween? It was pretty good for me in California. This week has been interesting, but I managed to stick to it.

Monday my new companion moved in. His name is Elder Dunn. He is from (probably spelled it wrong) Mckamon, Idaho (By Pocatello). He has been out for 10 weeks and I get the opportunity to finish training him. Yay. I just got done with that and now I am on the other side of it all. It's weird.

Tuesday was our weekly DDM meeting, which is always good. Our new district leader has been out as long as I have been. Our transfer group is doing some amazing things. Elder Young is currently training another missionary so I am not alone. We had dinner with our Ward Mission Leader so that was a good first dinner for Elder Dunn to meet him.

Wednesday we had the opportunity to help a member move out to San Jacinto, by Hemet. It was cool to talk with them about it. Our Ward Mission Leader used to live in Hemet as well. Small world. The only bad thing was that I was moving some 5-gallon water jugs that everyone and their dog has in California and one slipped out of my hand...and that one happened to be made out of glass. I felt so bad! They said I can pay it off with 1 baptism so I got some work to do. We had dinner with the Nunley's and they are a really awesome family. 

Thursday was weekly planning, weekly Book of Mormon study and we picked up a new investigator named Jacob. He seems to be a golden investigator because he really wants to meet with us and to teach him about the "Mormons". He asked us to come back the next day! Crazy! 

Friday was really fun. We saw Jacob again and we brought a member that was about his age. Turns out they were the exact same age! They were in the same Graduating class! How convinent! Also, the member, Cameron, went to the same mission as some of Elder Dunn's friends. It has been a small world this week. After, we had the ward Chili cook-off/trunk-or-treat, It was a lot of fun. Our ward and the Spanish ward was there and there was a good clash of cultures. The YM decided to try to win hottest chili...let's just say that 2 of them threw up as they were tasting it. I didn't dare try it. Elder Dunn and Elder Catchatoorian (Elder Warren's companion) went to their old ward's party because they were previously chosen to be chili judges. 

Saturday was a blast! A home share host named Ken took us out to breakfast. He is a really cool guy and everyone loves him. We managed to get a lesson with a less active before we had to turn in early. Our choices was to stay in from 6 on or have a zone activity at the stake center from 6-9pm. Guess what we did? The activity was so much fun, we played chair soccer, soccer, and basketball. There were some interesting events like Sister Bjork and I crashed into each other during soccer. I forgot that I am big and need more time and distance to stop. We are both fine, thank goodness. I felt so bad!

Sunday was marvelous! It was daylight savings so we got an extra hour of sleep. SCORE! Church was good, as usual. After the church we had a break-the-fast event with the Merrils...and the Tatums and the Nunleys and the Andersons and their friends. It was really cool! We should try that at home and make it a tradition! We ran into a less active in the evening by accident because we were looking for someone else and she happened to be there. I felt we were in the right place at the right time.

Today we are E-mailing a little early and plan to go bowling (2 games for $5, why not), clean up the apartment a bit, and meet a potential investigator. As well as getting haircuts. It is getting so long.

The lesson of the week is that we may get some unplanned and unwanted changes in our lives but we need to be positive about it because the Lord brought these changes to our lives for a reason and a purpose. I don't know why I need to finish Dunn's training or I need to take over the area 3 weeks earlier than expected, but "I will go and do the things the Lord commands" for I know that there is a purpose and a way to accomplish the things the Lord has asked of us. My district leader and I are learning this lesson together as we are faced with major responsibilities and as we faithfully strive to do our best, the Lord will take care of the rest.

Love you all and I can't wait to hear from ya next week.

Elder Jewkes

26 October, 2015 - To Mom

Don't worry, I had always known that my siblings are LOUD. It's nothing new. You should tell Charlee about the do not procrastinate the day of repentance scripture and apply it for school. Maybe even for FHE. The football game sounded intense! Did you guys go to watch it? Doesn't someone always get sick or have swollen cheeks from wisdom teeth at Halloween time? Trip to Disneyland? You are living the spontaneous life! For Elder Turner, he might go back depending on how bad it is. His Visa went through so if he was to go back, he would go straight to Australia. We have dinner with the Nunley's every Wednesday and Turner said he would Skype for conversation's sake. Elder Falou went home on Friday. He had been out for 22 months so he's done. The 4 of us in the Lasselle Ward have 2 apartment so Elder Warren had been apartment hoping but stayed at my apartment since it is nicer and bigger. Among all that, Elder Warren was also acting District Leader until Elder Olsen got that call Thursday. My new companion is Elder Dunn. He will move in later today. His companion, Elder Catchatoorian, will be with Elder Warren...until he goes home in 3 weeks. Warren just likes to send all his companions home. Elder Dunn has 3 weeks of training left so I'll get to finish that. Yay. The best moment (which is also the funniest and the one that made it all worth it) was Elder Turner and Falou acting like kids all week and last week since they were stuck inside and drove Elder Warren a little crazy. We had a family feed us "Mexican Spaghetti". I don't exactly know what makes is Mexican other than spicyness but it was really good. I got the package and I love it! "The 1B4 your b-day" Hehe. So I guess rain gear won't be needed anymore because Elder Falou gave me a bunch of his stuff before he left and it all fits. It was like Christmas! Since the crazy weeks are over, I'll try to start writing some letters home, especially to Kyall. Pronto.

26 October, 2015 - Crazy Week!

Dear Family and Friends,

It has been a crazy week! I had 2 companions sent home early due to injuries and I get a new one later today. When will the craziness end? One notable thing that happened after I e-mailed last week was that we went by a member's home so that Elder Turner can say Goodbye and He and Elder Falou, both being on crutches, decided to have a race from the car across the street to the front door and crutches were literally flying! Elder Falou is an interesting person.

Tuesday we did some service for the Salvation Army. They wanted us to throw out wet, disgusting cardboard boxes where a colony, no empire of cockroaches thrived. Luckily, there were a few lizards to eat some of them. Not the highlight of my week. After, Elder Turner went to the mission office to be sent home. A member took him. We had 2 set appointments so we had to bring crippled Falou with us to the first one. Teaching in a Trio is difficult, FYI. Then, we stayed in until Dinner so that Falou can start packing since he was going home on Friday. For our other appointment we were able to have a member babysit Falou while we were gone. Interesting start for an interesting week.

Wednesday was our weekly district meeting. Beforehand, we had gotten Spanish contacting training by the sisters so we can get them referrals since they give us referrals. All that spanish in high school did little to no help whatsoever. After lunch, we went on splits with a soon-to-be missionary in our ward. I went with him and the other two stayed home. Not much really happened after dinner.

Thursday was a blur. All I really remember is that we basically stayed in all day since we didn't have anything set up. There was another split in the afternoon but Elder Warren went this time so I stayed home and did nothing but study (Lehi's Dream)... and scriptures too!

Friday was the day we dropped off Elder Falou at the mission office. We were there in the morning and Elder Falou needed to be back at around 3 so we just dropped him off and he hung out in the mission office all day. After we got home, we managed to get some stuff done. We visited a recent-convert to get his paperwork done and had a lesson with a Part Member Family. Things are starting to look normal today.

Saturday was the first real missionary day all week. After we gave one of the Spanish sisters a healing blessing, we found a few more people we can possibly teach, which is good because my area is low on investigators, but that'll soon change. We also saw a few less-active members and got some lessons in. Then we had dinner with "Mom" (Sis. Tatum). She's "Mom" because she treats us like her own kids... and her mom is "Grandma" who's Catholic. We had pizza and Ice Cream. She really spoils us.

Sunday was fun. After Meetings in the morning, we had a few investigators come to church and a recent convert got her Patriarticle(Don't know how to spell) Blessing. After Sunday School, we got to go to primary because they needed a piano player and Elder Warren could play. It was the Primary Program or "Children's Sacrament Presentation" so we had treats and watched "The Restoration". Best day of church yet! We then had lunch with a Part-Member Family. The mom isn't a member, her boyfriend is Less active and the kids are recent converts. We took one of the kids to Mission Prep. Then we visited with the Ward mission leader since he was gone for a few weeks so we caught him up on the work...and he fed us leftovers for dinner. This ward spoils!

Well, crazy week. I best be get going. I need to get ready for my new companion to move in later today and hopefully have a more normal week. Love you all!

Elder Jewkes

19 October, 2015 - Interesting week

Dear Family and Friends,

This past week has been really interesting. Crazy things has happened and more will come.

Tuesday we were inside for most of the day. With Elder Turner injured and out, Elder Warren ( one of my Zone Leaders) stepped up and took me out to work while my companion and his are injured for the whole week and I really appreciated it. I don't think I can be stuck inside for 10 days. Work in my area was slow but the work in the whole ward isn't too bad. It is kinda interesting to do work in both areas.

Wednesday was Multizones in Jurupa, which is about 20 miles but it took 50 minutes to get there (stupid CA 60 traffic). It was a really good training on finding people and working with the members. Elder Turner went and was on crutches, but he was in so much pain. Poor guy. That took up most of the day, yet we were able to meet a Recent Convert in the evening so it wasn't a total waste.

Thursday was weekly planning, which I basically did myself since Elder Turner is going home. The other Elders in the ward found a Less Active who had his name removed from the church list, but wants to come back and with the current situation, I was there for it. We had a Book of Mormon study with some Recent Converts and Less Actives. We were also able to find more potentials, but nothing has come out of them yet. Since Elder Warren is a Zone Leader and Elder Falou is injured, I went to Stake Mission Coordination Meeting. This might be a sign for leadership. I am purposely saying this so I won't get it until I am a little more experienced.

Friday Elder Falou and I got the opportunity to teach our beliefs to a Roles of Religion Class an Moreno Valley Community College. It was... interesting. I was out with him because Elder Falou wasn't officially on house arrest until Saturday night. Not much happened that day. Falou and I had only been in the ward for 2 weeks so we had no idea who to see.

Saturday I went with Elder Warren to see our potentials. One wasn't home, another said call today to set up a time, and we have communication with another. We also saw a few other Recent Converts and Less Actives. This week has been a long week for sure.

Sunday Falou and Turner were able to go to sacrament meeting, but that was it for them. After church we saw a Recent Convert family who were kinda upset at Falou and Turner... mostly Turner because he was there longer. Luckily, Falou had ripped his pants down is lower areas between the legs and it lightened up the mood. We have dinner every Wednesday with them and Turner will Skype from home to be in the wild and fun conversations.

Today we went to Riverside to get Turner's Itinerary and Falou went with President Mullen to get a new suit. We recently got back and we only have time to E-mail at the Library where there would be enough computers for the 4 of us.

It's sad that Turner is leaving and that Falou will leave soon as well. It has been crazy this week and next week I'll tell you the results from the craziness.

Elder Jewkes

12 October, 2015 - A new transfer

Dear Family and Friends,

So, it was the first week of a new transfer. I am officially done training (ALL RIGHT!!!) and getting to work in Moreno Valley. I am currently with Elder Turner. He is a visa-waiter from Justin, Texas and has a possibility to go to his called mission in Perth, Australia in a few weeks. He finally finished his visa paperwork this past week...which means I'll probably have a new companion next transfer... again. I am also companions with the District Leader...again. We are also on bike...again. The exciting thing is I went from a district of all sisters in Hemet to a district of all elders in Mo-Val. That's a big change. I am in the Lasselle Ward, which is split with the Zone Leaders and we are in the North part of the area.

Tuesday I learned that we have a weekly service with the Salvation Army so we did some stuff with that. After that, we went to Riverside to finish Elder Turner's visa paperwork. The work is a little slow right now because the week before, the area lost all of its investigators...great. Now I only have to know the area. There were a lot of Recent converts and Less actives to see so it isn't too bad.

Wednesday we finished up with the Salvation Army. We did see a Recent Convert and tried to find more people to teach. After walking around, I learned that Elder Turner has some knee issues because he was icing after we were done. I got him to call Sister Mullen to get it checked. We had dinner with the Nunnly's, which are the coolest people in the ward. Sis. Nunnly is a Recent Convert and Bro. Nunnly is a Less Active that came back. It was a good meal and day.

Thursday was our weekly planning so we didn't go out until later, but we did get to go to a Book of Mormon study that a member of the ward sponsors and Less-Actives come so it's a good thing. Our dinner appointment had something come up so they gave us $12 each (12x4=48) and we went to a steak house. It was good. Still trying to find more people to teach.

Friday my companion and another missionary's companion went to Riverside for a District Leader meeting so Elder Gogan and I did some contacting in a Spanish area since Elder Gogan was called to be a Spanish missionary and he is currently being an English one for now. After that we waited for our companions to come back. They came about 1 1/2 hours later than planned. Then we contacted a few referrals we got from the Spanish Sisters and got one return appointment. That's a start. Then we went home after dinner and got ready for exchanges.

Saturday we had exchanges and I went to the Canyon Springs Area with one of my friends who came out to the MTC with me, Elder Mayo (like the spread). That was a fun little reunion. Out of the 4 missionaries living in that appartment, 3 of us came out together and 1 was out for 16 months. It felt like living in the MTC again. Good times. We were stuck inside all morning because he had a car in the shop that was in there longer than it should have been. We did get work done and since Elder Mayo didn't have a license, I got to drive for the first time in my mission! It was exciting. There is a monitor called a TIWI that talks back when you drive too aggressive or speed and it didn't go off once. PERFECT RECORD!!! After we got back I found my companion in crutches. Apparently, he fell on his bad knee and it got messed up. He has an appointment right now and keep him in your prayers because he was already sent home once after 3 months in Australia to resolve issues at home and has waited for 9 to go back. At this point, it's rather a plane ticket to Australia or back home to Texas.

Sunday we managed to go to church, but Elder Turner had to go home after sacrament meeting because he technically wasn't supposed to leave the house. So Elder Falou and I stayed while Elder Warren took Elder Turner home. After church, we stayed in all day and had dinner brought to us so I finally got to break out Trevor's toy kit he sent while I was in the MTC. 

Today we played chair soccer as a zone. We also did Zumba with the Somoan ward and it was really fun. Elder Turner is in his appointment and I am E-mailing currently. 

So that's the first week in Mo-Val. Keep Elder Turner in your prayers and I can't wait to E-mail again next week... hopefully with the same companion.

Elder Jewkes

5 October, 2015 - 3rd transfer

Dear Wonderful Friends and Family,

With the conclusion of General Conference this weekend, we are now at the beginning of a new transfer. After spending 3 months in Hemet, I am being transferred to the Lassalle North area in Moreno Valley. My companion, Elder Turner, is a Visa-waiter and will leave in 6 weeks to go to Australia. So I will probably have 4 companions in 6 months. I haven't left yet so next week I'll tell ya'll about the new area and companion.

Tuesday was good. We helped a member of the ward move, had a lesson with a family of 6, and gave a blessing to a Less-Active that is returning back to church activity. The sad part was that the member that was going to feed us dinner had her car window smashed and purse missing. Everything is alright now and she managed to supply us money for dinner. She is a sweet lady.

Wednesday was our quarterly temple trip to the temple in Redlands. I was so shocked how tiny the temple was compared to the ones back home, but it was still great and spiritual. We got 10 names done for a member of the ward. It was awesome. We ate lunch at Cafe Rio on the way home since there isn't one in our mission boundaries. We left at 10am and got back at around 5pm so not much was done for the rest of the day.

Thursday was the 3 month mark! That is so crazy! We played B-ball at 6 in the morning and hung out with some elders from the San Jacinto ward above our area, weekly planned and managed to get 2 lessons. This week had been slow but hopefully, things will pick up in the new area.

Friday was the best day of the week in terms of work. We got 5 lessons and 2 new investigators so that was alright. I also learned that Elder Cornia's mom put my name in the Logan Temple Prayer Roll. I can't believe that she did that for me. That's so unexpected! We had a member put Book of Mormons at his table in a flea market at his Senior Community Center, so we need to follow up on that.

Saturday was General Conference! It was awesome! We watched it at the Stake Center and we didn't do much because we were basically there all day (almost). We managed to get some grub at a tailgate party before the Priesthood Session for the San Jacinto ward because the San Jacinto elders were our ride. Then after conference we had our transfer calls where I learned that 3 out of the 6 new sisters are going to be trained by Hemet sisters. Hemet is a good place to be trained. Elder Cornia and one of the San Jacinto elders, Elder Page, are going to be trainers as well. Crazy things happen on transfer call day.

Sunday we watched the rest of general conference where a member from our ward fed all 26 missionaries in the stake. He is an awesome guy. After Conference, I had to say goodbye to the ward members which was really sad. I will miss the Gonzales family the most because they remind me of my family at home and the spirit is so strong at their home. Very mission-minded as well. I have seen like 6 nonmember family members in their house and we baptized one of them. Hopefully, Lassalle will be just as great.

Well, new things are going to happen so until next week, have a great week.

Elder Jewkes

28 September, 2015 - Another week.

Dear family and friends, 

Well, we are almost at the end of another transfer. It is kinda cool to end a transfer on General Conference Weekend. Awesome!!!

Tuesday was slow but we managed to see some people. One member found a new place to live via miracle. She needed a bigger place to fit her whole family and she bought a place for $6,000. BOUGHT, not RENT! That's awesome! It was slow, but we needed some time to tidy up the apartment for inspections and I had to pack to go on exchanges tomorrow.

Wednesday was exchanges! I went to the Echo Hills Area (About 2-3 miles south of us) with Elder Reyes. We also had apartment inspections. It was weird being inspected because I wasn't even at our apartment. We both did good, just need to sweep the patio, which we never stepped foot in. We saw a lot of their investigators and had dinner with their Ward Mission Leader. He is a really good guy. Our area did really good as well so it was a good day for both of us. Since my companion is a DL and our district is full of sisters, we only do exchanges once per transfer.

Thursday was our weekly planning which isn't that bad, we are just inside a little longer. Once we got outside, we did teach a family of 6, sort of. The parents weren't really involved. Unfortunately they are moving out of our ward by the end of the month, but the kids will be baptized by some lucky missionaries. We had dinner with the Bishop, who is the only bishop I ever had that constantly uses the word "Dude". He is really awesome. He took us to the oldest restaurant in Hemet. A Chinese place that has been running for 45 years.

Friday kinda sucked because we had planned so much and they all fell through except for one. Bishop also asked us to stop by a lady in the ward who recently had an accident. We stopped by and the ward already provided blessings and they are on top of things. We did have an excellent BOM reading session with a less active. We are currently in the Isaiah Chapters and he knows a little more than we do. Why doesn't he come to church?

Saturday was kinda the same thing. We did manage to get some paperwork done though. (YAY) We had dinner with some members that collect almost anything. The wife is in the process of buying antiques to re-sell at a Rummage Sale they have in their senior community. The husband is planning to do missionary work there by handing out Book of Mormons. The members here are good with their missionary work. They always bring at least 1 nonmember to church every week.

Sunday was the Primary Program!!! It reminded me of home and how great primary was. We also had some good lessons on repentance and being a good role model for the young men as Melchizedek priesthood holders. Also, our zone leaders had a baptism at our building so we helped them set up and clean up. We had dinner at the Stenzels and their 3 boys are 14, 16, and 17 and they are just like any other set of brothers who always tease and goof around with each other.

Today we played Volley-ball with both zones in the Hemet Stake, writing e-mails, and doing the usual P-Day stuff.

Next time on "Mission with Jewkes" : General Conference where 3 new Apostles will be called, our quarterly trip to the Redlands Temple, and transfer call for the upcoming transfer. Stay tuned and don't miss out.

❤Elder Jewkes

22 September, 2015 - Raincoat Needs

22 September 2015

Dear Brother and Sister Jewkes,

We all send our best wishes to you from the California Riverside Mission!  Pres. Mullen and I feel so blessed to serve with your amazing sons and daughters.  They are taking the gospel to many people. This week sixteen people were baptized.

September is usually the hottest month of the year here in southern California.  Though winter seems a long way off, we need to do some advance planning.  As you may have read, an El Nino effect has been setting up in the Pacific Ocean this summer.  The effect is so strong forecasters are 95% certain we will have a very wet winter in California.  In fact, rain comparable to 1998 has been forecast for this part of the state.  That winter in Riverside County more rain fell than any of the previous 100+ years that records were kept!  If you would like to read more about El Nino, we have included the September 10 update from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration at the end of this letter.

Since we have had so little experience with rain here in Riverside County we contacted a mission president’s wife in Washington where rain is common.  Here is the clothing that their missionaries wear to be prepared for rain:

Elders:

- *Breathable waterproof jacket with hood (Solid color:  black, taupe or navy)---long (A longer jacket provides more coverage.  However, a full-length coat is too long should the elder be assigned to a bicycle area.)

- No umbrella (They preferred using the hood of their coat.)

- Rain overshoes (rubber shoe covers) Totes makes these.  About $20 a pair OR waterproof shoes (not hiking boots).

- Breathable waterproof pants (for bike elders or others who may want them.  Do not buy these now if your son is currently on a bike.  That may change by the time the rain comes.)

Sisters:

- *Breathable waterproof skirt-length coat with hood.  (For January and February sisters will not be assigned to bike areas because of the difficulty of staying dry with skirts.)

- Umbrella if desired.

- Knee length black rubber boots.  These do not pull on over shoes but are worn instead of shoes OR overshoes.

*Breathable:  not plastic or PVC.  Fabric should keep rain out but allow body moisture to escape.  Plastic keeps the missionary damp inside the coat; this means he or she is cold.

While it will be a cold winter for California, it will not be Utah or Illinois cold.  Coats do not need to be heavy.  They can be layered over sweaters.   It rained last week and quite a few of our elders and sisters had no coat and no umbrella.  If you have sent coats and umbrellas and overshoes, do not go out a buy different gear. Let’s see how the rain goes.  If you haven’t sent rain gear with your missionary you might look at the suggestions above.

We realize this is an expense at a time of year when additional expenses are difficult and we are sorry for that.  We felt, however, that you would want to know what is coming so your missionary can be prepared.

We are two weeks from transfers.  PLEASE ship boxes to the Mission Office so that they do not arrive at an apartment where your missionary no longer lives.  We are now hand delivering mail from the office to the missionaries.  This should eliminate lost items.

Thank you for continuing to support of your missionary.  Your love and encouragement are so important to them.  Thank you also for your prayers for the work they are doing.

Faithfully yours,

President John and Sister Jana Mullen



El Niño Update And Outlook For Temperature And Precipitation

During Winter 2015-16 In US

What is the current forecast for El Niño conditions this winter?

On September 10, NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center (CPC) updated its forecasts for the current El Niño and the coming winter.  CPC now estimates that

El Niño conditions have a 95% chance of continuing through the Northern Hemisphere winter of 2015-16, gradually weakening through spring 2016.

Named El Niño Eggplant by Decoded Science,

this promises to be the most significant El Niño since at least 1998.*

The implications for weather across the US and farther are immense.

 How Will El Niño Affect The Weather In the Continental US?

The updated CPC forecast shows a typical El Niño effect over the continental United States: Warmer than normal across the north; Cooler than normal across the south.

 Precipitation is expected to be enhanced over the south, including parched California. *According to the National Climatic Data Center, during the El Nino of 1997-98, California had its fifth wettest January-February in the 103 year record up to that time.

Is El Niño And Its Effects A Done Deal?

El Niño Eggplant is with us and getting stronger. All forecasts call for it to peak in mid-winter.  However, powerful countervailing forces are at work that could alter the precipitation and temperature patterns that normally accompany El Niño.

In particular, the pool of much-warmer-than-normal water over the northwest Pacific Ocean (affectionately known by meteorologists as ‘the ‘blob’) tends to create warm and dry conditions over the west coast and is thought to be a major contributor to the California drought. The weather this summer seems to be a see-saw between the two distinct patterns induced by El Niño and the blob.

Forecasters are fairly certain that the El Niño correlation with

precipitation across the southern US will hold this winter.

21 September, 2015 - Another week

Dear Family and Friends,

This week was an interesting week with a lot of events I will explain later on.

Tuesday we had another baptism. This guy's name was Joseph and, unfortunately, not a lot of people attended but I did get to see my last companion, Elder Manson, again. We didn't really do a lot because it was DDM all morning and filling the font all afternoon. But we did get some paperwork done from the last 2 baptisms, so I guess it was productive.

Wednesday we had to have our weekly planning because there would be a multi-zone tomorrow. We did get to see 2 investigators though, which wasn't too bad. Also, for dinner we got to see Bro. Dunn's large old-timer gun collection and a small sword collection. He loves to show his antiques. We also helped a member give some blessings so today wasn't too bad.

Thursday was our Multi-zones. We had the same training that was given to the General Leaders of the church, which really focuses on the importance of the Sabbath day and how we can make it more spiritual. We also got Tiwi's installed in the mission cars. Tiwi's are a monitoring device that records your driving and talks to you when you 1) speed 2)Turn too sharp or accelerate and brake too quickly and 3) When the driver isn't buckled. You also have a card you need to use to log in so that your driving can be recorded. Which sucks because I have a card, but i don't drive...I haven't drove in almost 3 months. The highlight of the day was when a member brought us In-N-Out!!!

Friday there was a lot going on. We contacted referrals all morning, Cornia had to give PPI's so I just sat out in the hall for an hour and then we helped a LA move to Long Beach. Then we had dinner with the Elder Quorum's family and got some referrals there and ended the day with a Book of Mormon reading session with a Less-Active family.

Saturday we got to do a blitz for Valle Vista West...again. They got 12 referrals so they got some work to do. Then, we had Taco Bell with the Zone Leaders. We met a referral we had and he is GOLDEN! All he has to do is get married and he is good to go. He had the lessons before he moved here and was about to be baptized before he left. SCORE! Then, with money we got for dinner, we had Carl's Jr and met Judy who was super excited to see us. It was also Stake Conference so we went to the Adult Session after we got NEW PHONES. It'll take awhile to adjust to them.

Sunday was the rest of Stake Conference. The emphasis was on Sabbath day and even President and Sister Mullen was there and even spoke. Every pair of missionaries in the stake brought 1 or 2 investigators...and there are 13 companionships in the stake. After Stake Conference, we struggled to hit the standard, but we did!! (At the last minute). It was good that we did. There were some people that really needed to see us at the time we showed up.

Today we played B-ball, e-mail, and we are about to have a birthday celebration with one of the member families in the ward. Ruby, which reminds me of Charlee, is turning 14. Johnny reminds me of Kevin Shelton, and Luis reminds me of Tucker so naturally I love this family! We will also help the Dunn's move a TV later today as well.

I hope that everything is going well back home and I'll write ya'll next time.

❤Elder Jewkes