I think all of this proves that God will provide a way.

Grace's Baptism!! (more pictures below)

Dear Friends and Family,

It has been a good week.  Yesterday, Grace was baptized.  She is a great lady.  She is very humble.  Her testimony and desire are very strong.  Her baptismal service was a great event.  Everyone in the ward felt so close together.  Our relief society president is so boss.  She translates a lot because she knows sign language, but yesterday at the baptism she welcomed Grace to the ward.  It was really cool.  

A lot of crazy stuff happened this week.  We had companion exchanges and I went to Causeway Bay for a day.  It is so busy, so we went to a park to go finding.  I was with Elder Peacock who is from Ireland.  He is a swell guy.  It's so important to get a new perspective on things, because it is so easy to get yourself into a rut when dong missionary work.

Leadership is a very important thing in the mission, church, and entire world.  But many have a misconception of what that it.  I have learned that great leadership does not come from domination or asserting your will, but from bringing out the good in others. When one person tries to use force to get others to conform, that person kills so much good that could be brought about.

 I've also learned that in every argument, debate, or fight.  It is not exclusively the fault of one person.  Usually both parties have contributed to the contention.  So with that I have learned to sincerely apologize, and not expect one in return.  Whether or not the other party admits their fault is not my problem.  If I've forgiven others, and asked for their forgiveness then I am clean before God.  If the other party thinks they have nothing to change then they have their reward.  

I thank you all for your support, love, and prayers.  I know there is much more you do that I do not know about. Love you!

Love,
Elder Phillips

Dear Friends and Family,

I don't have a lot to write this week, I just want to wish you all the best!! In some parts of Hong Kong they are serious about putting up Christmas decorations!   

Grace was confirmed in yesterday's Sacrament meeting.  It is so interesting to have a sizable part of the ward be deaf.  Grace is doing great.  A really cool thing that happened yesterday was that 5 deaf less actives came to  church!  The deaf members here are hardcore about finding the deaf less actives.  That is a huge miracle right there.  

Move calls are tomorrow.  It is a bit scary.  I don't like the idea of leaving Pok Fu Lam, but if I must, then of course I will.  Learning and working in Sign Language has been the most unexpected but greatest part of my mission.  I think all of this proves that God will provide a way.  It does not matter that they can't hear.  The gospel still rings true to them as it does to all people, in all nations of the world.  Even to the ends of the universe.  The changes and things that happen in our lives can never overshadow the unchangeable fact that God is real.  He is our life and our light.  I know that he in a very real sense is with us, even unto the end of the earth. Love you all!  Merry Christmas!

Love,
Elder Phillips

Grace's baptism pictures!

P-Day

Lunch Date

View from our apartment