12/27/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

Day 1 on the Island of Sal, Cape Verde

Yesterday, the 26th of December, I arrived here on the Island of Sal. The trip here was very neat because our plane had a stop on the island of Maio. There are currently no missionaries serving on the island of Maio and so it was a special opportunity to be able to stop there.

We arrived here in Sal around 7:00pm and headed to our house to leave our suitcases. We left right away to go out and pass some of our friends and we were blessed to encounter the Branch President first. We talked to him for a little and he accompanied us in our other visits with the members. I already love the Branch President here, and I know he will help us out a lot. We visited some of the members last night and received a bunch of referrals from them which will be a great help for us in finding and teaching the family and loved ones of the members.

Sal is a different world compared to Praia (the area I came from). There are less people, less dogs, less noise, less trash, less cars,...it is pretty nice. I am very excited to serve here on the island of Sal.

I know that the Savior Jesus Christ came to earth to fulfill the will of our Heavenly Father in saving the souls of all those who hearken unto His voice and keep His commandments. I am very thankful for the gospel of Jesus Christ in my life and the joy and happiness I have every day as I serve my King. I testify that He lives and that He loves us, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Elder Joshua Shelhamer

10/09/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This past weekend we had the great privilege and opportunity to listen to counsel given by church leaders and authorities during the General Conference of the church. What a great weekend it was.
Here in Cape Verde the chapels do not yet have satellites to receive live transmission of General Conference. In some areas in the past, some branches have watched General Conference through an Internet connection. Here in the area I am serving in, they are accustomed to watch two or three talks the weekend after General Conference in Sacrament Meeting. This year, with some preparation and planning, The branches here in Praia were able to assist every conference session. It was an inspiring experience to prepare for this conference and help everyone here hear the words of the prophets and apostles and other church leaders. The attendance at the conference sessions here was surprising. Many were taught and instructed by the spirit and left with a renewed desire to always keep the commandments and do our Heavenly Fathers will.
I am so grateful for the love our Heavenly Father shows for each of us. The words of the living prophets help us day to day to do what is right and help others do the same. I testify of the Savior Jesus Christ and His redeeming sacrifice performed on our behalf. I encourage everyone to check out the church´s newly designed website at www.new.lds.org to learn more about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I leave you with these things, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

8//13/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This week was an incredible week as I witnessed the blessings of the gospel in our lives.
I am currently teaching a man that lives by himself in a room that is just a little bit bigger than his bed. He is a great man that consults broken electronics. I am currently helping him learn more about the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. As he began to learn about Jesus Christ and His gospel, he quickly gained a desire to be baptized. He has a goal to be baptized on the 28th of August. This week we were talking with him about the "Law of Health" that the Lord has revealed through the modern day prophet Joseph Smith called "the Word of Wisdom." The next visit he shared an experience with us that during that week, one of his good friends invited him to go out with him to some bars to have fun. This man told us, "Elder, I had already made my decision, I will not go." This mans confidence in the Lord of the promised blessings he will receive in following the Lords commandments is a great example that each of us can follow in our lives. I was happy to see the gospel touching and blessing the life of this man as he strives to follow the teachings of his Savior Jesus Christ.
I know that God is our Heavenly Father. He loves us and cares for us. One of the loving ways that he does this is through giving us commandments that we can following to merit his blessings.
I know my Father lives, and testify of this in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

7/23/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

Cape Verde is hot!! haha
Everything is going well here in Cape Verde.
As we continue to work hard here to bring the message of the restoration of the gospel to as many as possible, the Lord continues to bless us with many blessings. I thank everyone for their prayers and support.

7/16/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This week marked one year in the mission. This week, one year ago, I entered the Missionary Training Center with a long two years ahead of me. Now, I have been serving for one year, with only one year left. With how quickly the first year went, I can imagine that this second year will fly by as well. I have learned a lot this past year about many different things. I have grown a lot as well (unfortunately, not in height though, haha). I have had many different companions up to this point, and so therefore many interesting experiences.
My testimony of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ has strengthened to great measures, and I have seen miracles and blessings occur in the lives of many of our Heavenly Fathers children. I testify that Jesus Christ is our Savior, and that by following the guidance and counsel of His living servants on the earth today, we will find peace and happiness.

7/9/2011 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This week I have seen the great influence of others and the things around us that can effect the way that we act.
One thing that I have learned to be true is that each and every one of us, as children of a loving Heavenly Father, we have an enormous power and opportunity to choose for ourselves what is right. The principle of free agency, or in other words, the ability to use our free will to choose things in our life is a gift give to each of us from God. We know that as we strive to always choose the right, we have a promise with our Father that he will grant us His blessings.
Today on my way to this location where I use the internet, we were riding in a Taxi. We hopped in, and told the driver where we wanted to go. Quickly I noticed the type of music that this man was listening to, and they way he acted and lived. They were similar. The music he was listening to had some of the most vulgar words and lyrics that I have every heard. His appearance and lifestyle followed in the same manner. The song was in English, this man did not speak or understand English, yet, I could see the influence of this music on the life of this individual. I see this every day as I walk the streets here in Cape Verde. Many young people will see the popular "gangsters" and "rap singers" from America on TV doing things that are related to sex, drugs, and violence. These people want to be "cool" like them. These types of things that people see and hear influence them enormously.
I have a strong testimony that our surroundings, music, loved ones, and friends have a great influence on the way we live our lives. I know that as every one of us seeks the good things in life, the Holy Spirit will be with is to lead and guide us. I encourage everyone to always remember to be in good places, doing good things, and being influenced by good friends, and in turn, your life will be lead and molded to follow our Savior Jesus Christ.
Of these things I testify, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

6/25/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

Hello Everyone!

This week has been another fun, exciting, and HOT week here in Cape Verde.

This week we met a new friend named Josalina. She is single and in her twenties. The Sister Missionaries came in contact with her while they were talking with people throughout the week. Josalina showed up in church on Sunday and had an incredible experience. She loved the building that she was in, the wonderful words that were spoken about Jesus Christ, and more importantly, the comfort and feelings that she had. Two days later we met up with Josalina in her home to talk with her a little bit about our church and our message. As we asked her about her first experience in church, I was filled with unbearable joy as I listened to what she said. She truly found and experienced what it feels like to feel true happiness and the pure love of Christ. She felt wonderful, and looks forward to church next week. This experience taught me two lessons. One, that there are really people in the world that are prepared and ready to hear about the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. And secondly, that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the Lord´s church re-established once again upon the earth. He leads His church. I have seen and experienced my self the joy that one can receive when they follow the example of our Savior Jesus Christ.

I testify that He lives. Jesus Christ is our King. I know that if we follow Him, and His chosen prophets that live and guide us here on the earth, we can live eternally with Him forever.

I testify and share of these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

6/18/2010 Letter from Elder Shelhamer

This week was another fun week in Cape Verde. We have been busy as always here in the office.

Yesterday I was on a division with another Elder in a different area. We had marked to go visit an older members home to talk with them. When we walked into the house I heard scriptures and the well-known TV or soundtrack voice. I turned to the other Elder and asked, "What film are the watching?" We listened attentively for a moment and determined that she was just listening to the Book of Mormon on CD. I found out later that this woman cannot read, but she does not let her disabilities stop her, but continues to keep the commandments and be a great example for others. At the end of our "lesson" this woman starting teach us, the Elders, about things that would happen in our lives and things that we should always to to guarantee that we will follow the will of our Heavenly Father. In this moment, both myself and my companion started receiving personal revelation for ourselves. It was incredible. This older woman, sharing with us her knowledge of the gospel and the blessings that she has received helped us learn more about our lives as well. Earlier that morning we stopped by the house of a recent convert and talked with her about the importance of teaching one another and learning from one another. This experience that I had later that morning strengthened my testimony of this commandment that our Heavenly Father has given us.

I testify that we have experiences in this life that help us grow and learn more about ourselves. Our Heavenly Father loves us, and wants to to keep His commandments so that one day, we can return to His presence.

I hope that everyone is well, and encourage everyone to continue to write letters as often as time may permit.
I love you all.

6/11/2010 Letter from Elder Shelhamer

Everything continues to come along well here in Cape Verde. This past week the waves in the ocean have been a bit larger than usually. It is pretty exciting. Things are going well here in the office, and we are continuously busy with many things to do.
We had a great week and were able to help many of our investigators arrive in church and learn more about our Savior Jesus Christ.
I hope that everyone is doing well, and hope to hear from you soon!

6/5/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This week I was blessed with a special assignment from my mission president.
Currently we have some people here from they church that are filming interviews of church members here in Cape Verde about their beliefs and how the gospel has truly blessed their lives. My companion and I were assigned to do the planning and arrangements for this project. My companion and I spent much time contacting people and setting up our appointments that we would be having the next couple days.
One wonderful thing about this project is that I am able to stay with this filming crew throughout the day and help them with translations, interviews, and the filming process. The interviews and films are short clips that they are taking of powerful testimonies to be shared with other people that are not members of the church. This assignment is so very exciting because I am able to listen to the strong heart-felt testimonies of many individuals that have been blessed by the gospel. The feelings and influences of the Holy Spirit during these interview films has been incredible, and I have enjoyed every minute of it.
A testimony is what we know for ourselves to be true. Each person has the opportunity to gain and strength a personal testimony for themselves. My testimony of Jesus Christ as the Son of God has improved to great levels, and my testimony of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ is strong and continues to expand to great measures.
I share my personal testimony that Christ suffered for our sins and took upon himself our transgressions so that we can be free from pain, sickness, and grief. I know that as we accept the gospel of Jesus Christ and live according, we will show our love for our Heavenly Father and continually received His blessings in our lives.

5/28/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

Service.
When we see the word "service," many often think of a "service project" or some type of arduous labor. Service is something that each and every one of us has the opportunity to take part in every day of our lives. Many times our service can be visiting someone, offering our help to others, and being a kind friend and follower of Jesus Christ.
As I serve the Lord here in Cape Verde for a length of two years, it has become clearer to me every day of the importance of service, and the effect that one small act of service can have on the life of another.
I know that when we offer service to others throughout our lives, we will find greater happiness and receive many blessings from our Heavenly Father. The gospel of Jesus Christ is a gospel of service; a gospel that each one of us can share with others by our service.
I bear testimony that Jesus Christ is our perfect example that we can follow. I know that as we are in the service of those around us, we are in the service of our Heavenly Father.

5/21/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This week I gained a stronger testimony of the importance of respecting others. Respect is a principle of the gospel that is very important. Any type of abuse, be it verbal, emotional, or physical, is something that is not in harmony with the teachings of Jesus Christ. Here in Cape Verde, unfortunately at time we see abuse. As I contemplate the effects of abuse, and the sadness it can bring to the lives of many, I think of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, and the power of forgiveness, love, and peace we can receive through our Savior.
I know that Jesus Christ suffered for our sicknesses and sadnesses. I know that each of us can strive to be better followers of Jesus Christ be always trying our best to follow the example of Him in all that we do, and in turn, have a positive effect on other people as well.

5/14/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This week was a very busy week with some extra spent time working on extra projects and work. As I went throughout this week and the week quickly passed by, I realized how fast time can pass us by sometimes without us really noticing. The importance of planning our time and prioritizing the things in our lives becomes particularly important when we are always busy and need to leave something behind.

As one who preaches the restored gospel of Jesus Christ everyday, I have deeply realized the importance of religion in the lives of everyone. Our love for our Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ is not something that can be placed behind in the "To do later" pile, but, should surely be placed at the top of our priority list in life.

I testify of the blessings of obedience to the principles of the gospel. Obedience brings true happiness.

As we continue to work and complete our daily tasks, I would bear testimony and urge everyone to always put the important things first in life, that being, the spiritual things in our lives and our family. I know that as each and every one of us manage to do this, we will witness wonderful things happening in our lives.

5/7/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This week was an exciting week. I was able to call my family for Mother´s Day and was able to talk to my Mother and my Father. It was very exciting to hear their voices and talk to my family at home.

This past week we have been helping many youth find hope and joy in Christ as we showed them how to study and follow the words of Christ. Every Tuesday through Friday night here in my area, the area youth that are members of the church gather in the Chapel for a class called "Seminary." Seminary is a class that allows youth to come and be edified by the word of God, and to find much needed spiritual strength in their lives. This past week, we started inviting more and more youth that we are teaching to arrive at this class, to study and be enriched with the words of the scriptures, and as we do so, I can see them changing and coming closer to Christ each day.

I know and testify that the Holy Scriptures have spiritual power that can help and bless us every day of our lives. Studying and examining the words of Christ allows us to learn and apply the teachings of our Savior in our lives and in turn, walk the pathway of life that leads to our eternal salvation.

I invite everyone to study the scriptures that you may have, and learn about the happiness and hope that the words of Christ contain. Also, I would invite everyone to request a copy of the Book of Mormon if you do not already have a copy at http://www.mormon.org/.

I hope everyone is doing well, and hope to continue to hear from you all soon!

4/30/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This week was an exciting week filled with many things to complete in the mission office along with many people to help.

Today, we went on an office trip to the other side of the Island of Santiago called Tarrafal. It was a lot of fun. We spent some time on the beach, and also visited a tunnel/cave in which we passed through. As we passed through this tunnel, it was dark, and the 2 flashlights that we had were barely sufficient to guide the way through. Halfway through the tunnel, one of my sandals that I was wearing broke. I started walking barefoot. I hit my head off the top of the cave once when the height suddenly changed. I had some difficult moments passing through this cave, and near the end, without any sign of light, was hoping that the end was near. As we finished this journey, I pondered about this experience and how this same type of experience like I was experiencing, many people around the world are experiencing, spiritually. Some times in life, we have dark moments, or times when we just doing really know why, how, or who cares. We have days when everything seems to be going wrong, and we feel along in a large world. In life, these experiences can be fixed; peace, happiness and hope can be found in and through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I know that all of the experiences we encounter in life are meant for our benefit, and that as we act, using our agency, we can show great love for our Father in Heaven and feel his merciful love in our lives. Jesus Christ is the light of the world, and a light that can guide our lives, if we permit him to. Troubles, weaknesses, and sadness can be overcome with happiness, strength, and success, as we live according to the teachings of Christ.

As one of His servants, I testify of the love of Christ available for everyone. Jesus is our Savior, and in saying this, I mean to say that we can be saved through His sacrifice and ultimate expression of love that we showed for each of us when he took upon himself our sadness, pain, and sins.

I invite everyone to come to Christ, and to look to Him in those moments of darkness and troubles, and as you do so, I know that you will begin to feel his abundant love in your lives.

4/23/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

Transfers have happened once again, and receiving a telephone call from our Mission President, I was transferred.
I was been called by the Lord to serve as a Mission Finance Secretary and to serve in Achada of Santo Antonio in Praia, the island of Santiago. Having traveled once again on place from Sal Vicente to Santiago, I am now working in the Mission Office and serving in this new area. My companion is Elder Peterson, from Missouri, and I am excited to be here to serve. I am now serving with my 6th companion, in my third area, on my third island.
The mission is continuing to go very well, and the Lord´s choice blessings are being witnessed every day.
I am so thankful for the privilege to serve the Lord here in Cape Verde, to preach His word onto His children and help them return to their Father that is in Heaven.
I encourage everyone to continue to write letters as often as time may permit. I love hearing from all of you, and your words of love and support help every day.
I pray that everyone is well, and thank everyone for all that they have done for me.

4/5/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This week was an incredible week as we were all greatly inspired by the words of our Prophet, Apostles, and other church leaders.

As we viewed General Conference this past week via Internet broadcast, we were all greatly edified. We went to a church chapel that is located in the city here in Mindelo. On the second floor the General Conference was available for all of the church members to come and enjoy in Portuguese. One the lower floor we were able to view General Conference in English. It was an incredible blessing.

One of the main points that many of our church leaders were inspired to speak about was the importance and love of families. As I sat and listened to the counsel given by our Prophet and Apostles along with other church leaders, I was lead to think about my family, and how important they are to me. Ever since I can remember, my family has always been a family of love, people who care for me and are always there for me. As we received counsel from our church leaders about our families, my love for my family was burning within my heart.

I know that the restored gospel of Jesus Christ truly and surely blesses families. Of this statement of truth, I have no doubt. The joy contained within a family when based on gospel sod is miraculous.

As a representative of the Lord Jesus Christ, during this Easter Season I also can share my testimony that I know He lives. He loves us. He desires our happiness during this life, and in the life to come. I testify with all of my heart that Thomas S. Monson is an inspired man of God; he is the Lords prophet on the earth today.

I invite everyone to listen to the wonderful talks given by our church leaders about families, and the importance of them in our lives. I know that as each one of us apply the teachings of the Prophets and Apostles in our lives, we will surely be blessed by our Father in Heaven.

3/29/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This week was a great week. This week we had Zone Conference, which means that half of the missionaries on the Island of Sal Vicente and the Elders from the Island of Sal got together and we were instructed by our Zone Leaders, the Assistants to the President of the Mission, as well as the Mission President and his wife. It was a great day with good trainings, good spiritual growth, and good food. This week was a week that I really gained an even stronger testimony of the Priesthood Authority and the fact that we have living prophets and apostles on the earth today. What an amazing thing that is. We have worthy men, called of God, and given authority to teach us of the message that our loving Heavenly Father has for each of us. This next weekend, April 3rd and 4th, we will have the great privilege to listen to the words of our inspired leaders of the church. With all of my heart, I invite everyone who reads this blog to listen to the messages of our Prophets and Apostles. Listen to what they have to say to you. You can find the information on how to view General Conference by clicking here. I testify that Thomas S. Monson is a prophet of God, and that as we listen to the words and the counsel that he has for us, we will surely be blessed. I hope and pray that everyone is doing well and hope to hear from you all soon.

3/22/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

Life is going well here in Cape Verde. This week we had a missionary activity to the Island of Santo Antão. We took a boat to get there, and then spent the day hiking the mountains and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. As I was sitting at the top of a mountain today with a group of my friends, I was pondering about my mission, and the great love that we receive from our Heavenly Father. We were setting at the peak of a mountain eating our lunch and relaxing, and the view was incredible. We could see without end the blue sky above the clouds. As we descended, we started walking down through the clouds, and the view was not very clear. Our vision was impeded. We made our way more and more along the trail, and eventually arrived at the bottom where we could then see clearly. As I was in the midst of the clouds and talking with my friends as we walked along, I thought about the power of prayer, and the amount of deliverance that we receive from spiritual guidance in our lives. At points in our lives we have moments when our spiritual vision is shortened or not clear, and we can not see things clearly like when we are in the clouds, or we may not see things in the way our Heavenly Father may see them. With the power of prayer, with spiritual guidance that we receive from our Father, we are able to see more clearly and understand things that happen in our lives. There was a recent article in a magazine that I read written by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, the Second Counselor in the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints titled "Prayer and the Blue Horizon." I would recommend this article to everyone for more of a point of view of what I have spoken about.
I would also invited everyone to visit http://www.lds.org/ to take a look at all of the wonderful resources that the church has available on the Internet.
I thank everyone for their prayers and hope everyone is doing well.

3/15/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This week was a difficult week. We worked very hard, but the success and fruits of our labor were not being seen clearly by us. We continued to work our best. At times here in the mission, when I am talking to a person on the street, or teaching about a gospel principle, I can feel the Holy Spirit testifying in my heart of the truthfulness of what is being said.

One experience in particular this week was when we were talking to a man named, Cesar. He is one of our friends, and we stop by often to teach him about the gospel. This week I asked him a straight forward question, "Cesar, do you believe that Jospeh Smith was a prophet of God?" He responded, "Yes Elder, I do." I continued and then asked him "Why do you believe, Cesar, that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God?" At this moment the presence of the Holy Spirit was strong, as he then continued to say, "Because I prayed about it, and now know for sure that Joseph Smith was a prophet."

I know that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. I cannot deny my testimony that I have developed of the truthfulness of this message. I also know that we can receive confirmations from the Holy Spirit, to develop our own testimonies of gospel truths.

I invite everyone that reads this blog, who are not members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, to learn about our message, and to find out for yourselves how the gospel of Jesus Christ as restored to the earth today.

I know that these things are true, and I pray that all of my family and friends continue to search for true happiness in their lives, that is, the happiness that comes from the gospel of Jesus Christ.

3/8/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

Another week has come and gone here in Cape Verde, and the work of the Lord continues to progress.

This week was my first week together with my companion, Elder Rosell, and we had a great week. One thing that I gained a greater knowledge of during this past week was the amount of love that our Heavenly Father has for every one of His children. During my studies as I studied and words of our prophets and the scriptures, I encountered many things that help me understand more deeply the great love that our Father has for us. As a full-time missionary, serving as a representative of Christ, I witness and feel His love daily.

One thing I am thankful for in my life are the many examples I have. First, the example of Christ. Jesus Christ is our perfect example. He is someone that each of us can always follow in our lives while having complete confidence that we are doing the right things. Also, I am thankful for the words and counsel of our prophet, Thomas S. Monson. He is a man that I know is called of God, to be our prophet on the earth today. I have complete confidence in the counsel of our prophet because I know that when we follow the words of the prophet, we are surely following the words and will of our Father. One example very special in my personal life is the example of my parents. As I grew up in my family, I was always taught and instructed by my parents to do those things that we right. My mother and my father helped me with many things, and got me involved in many great organizations and activities. Without the good example of my Mother and Father, my life would be different. Each and every one of us have this responsibility of being an example in our own lives. We may not always know it, but there is always someone that is watching is, and learning of our ways. I know that I am an example to people whom I may not even know, and I know the same is true of everyone, that our examples have great impacts of the lives of many.

I would just like to leave my testimony of our living prophet today, Thomas S. Monson. With all of my heart, I testify that this man is a man called of God. He is real. He is a prophet. He continues to guide the church of the Lord in the right direction according to the will of the Father. I have complete faith and confidence, that as we place our faith in the words and counsel of our Prophet, President Thomas S. Monson, we will be solid and firm on gospel ground.

I thank everyone for their prayers on my behalf, and leave these words in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

3/1/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

Transfers have happened again, and this transfer I will be staying in the same area, Monte Sossego North, Mindelo 2. My companion, Elder Moreno will be leaving and going to a different area, and I will be recieving Elder Rossell today. I am very excited to serve together with Elder Rossell.

Mindelo is a great area. As a mission we are currently striving to continue to search for those people that are prepared to receive the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. I know that as we work diligently, the spirit will guide us and help us find those that are ready to receive our message.

This past week I gained a stronger testimony about the importance of this work, and that now is the time for everyone to hear this glad message which we deliver. As recognizing such, and understanding even more that importance and blessings of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, I receive great joy every day as I contact people on the streets and share my knowledge of the Savior with them. I have seen attitudes changed and eyes opened as a result of our great messages.

I thank everyone for their many prayers on my behalf. I am healthy, safe, and well. The Lord shall protect me as I continue to serve with all of my heart.

2/22/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This past week I have experienced the power of music in our lives. As I was teaching our friends this past week, as we started our lessons with a hymn, the spirit was present, and I could tell that our friends were understanding the message of the hymn that we had sung.

It is such a joy to serve the Lord here in Cape Verde, and as I look at time, it is flying by quickly!

I thank everyone for their letters that they have been sending. Please continue to send your love. I enjoy reading your letters very much, and it always brings even more joy into my life.

I hope that everyone is doing well, and I hope to hear from you all soon!

2/15/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This week I will write a little bit about Cape Verde from what I have seen and witnessed so far.
This country, or republic as it is officially called, is located off the western coast of Africa. The whole country is about 1,500 miles in total. It is said that about 20% of the population lives on less than $1.25 (U.S.) a day.
The culture here is beautiful, and the people, wonderful. With the help of Portugal, Brazil, and America, (only to name a few that I have seen the influence), the country is developing quickly and many well known American products can be found in some stores. A lot of families here in Cape Verde have members of their family living in Boston in the United States. There is a direct flight from Boston, USA to Cape Verde Praia, and so family's can easily travel to this location. Many of those that live in Boston will ship American products to family members in Cape Verde in large barrels on boats.
There are banana trees in some areas, and people walking up and down the streets selling bread, bananas, and fish (only to name a few) every day.
The climate seems to stay in the 70-90 year round and possibly a bit warmer; I have not yet experienced the summer season yet.
I love the culture here. It is different to live on an island. One thing that is marvelous about Cape Verde is the beautiful sun set. It is just wonderful.
This is just a little bit about Cape Verde that I have experienced and seen so far, but to experience the full effect of Cape Verde, make a visit and experience the wonders of Cape Verde for yourself! It is well worth it!
I hope everyone is doing well, and hope to hear from you all soon.
Also - Please note that this site is in no way associated with or managed by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but only a personal account of my experiences serving as a missionary in Cape Verde.

02/08/2009 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

Here in my area we have had a lot of strong winds lately, but the work of the Lord is going forth. There are a lot of visitors arriving from Brazil, Portugal, and America as well to observe the celebration of "Carnival." Other than that, everything is going alone as normal.
This week I witnessed the blessing of Obedience. I am currently teaching a family with a Father, Mother, a young boy, and a baby. They are a wonderful humble family living with under minimal conditions.
As we continue to teach them about the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and his commandments, they continue to follow our counsel with a willing heart. Before the father of this family came in contact with us, the missionaries, he was doing things in his life that weren't all in harmony with the teachings of Christ. As he continued to make big changes in his life, leaving things behind which he once enjoyed, we witnessed the blessings of Obedience fill his life.
One big change that this father made in his life was his work. He didn't have a good strong job, but had a job in which he only worked on Saturdays and Sundays. As this father continued to learn more about the gospel, he knew that he must attend church on Sunday mornings and observe the day of the Lord. He willingly,having faith and hope in our Heavenly Father, dropped his job. Then, not having any income, living under his conditions with a new family, something had to happen. About 3 days after this father quit his job to observe the Sabbath Day with his family, a blessing arrived. Through his obedience in observing the day of the Lord along with the other commandments, this father received a offer for a job during the week, of which he would never be required to work on Sunday. Through this man's faith in the our Father's love, and through obedience of the commandments of our Heavenly Father, this man and his family have been richly blessed. The fathers life has greatly changed from before, and the family is now enjoying the rich blessings of the gospel in their family.
I testify that obedience to the commandments of our Heavenly Father brings blessings into our lives. I know that as we strive to be children obeying our Father, he will bless us with those blessings he has prepared for each one of us.

02/01/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This past week was a great week, filled with many great experiences.
One thing that I witnessed during this past week was the power of prayer. When we pray, we are able to communicate with our Heavenly Father. We are able to open our hearts, and sincerely talk with our God. Usually during a prayer, we will thank our Father for the many blessings that we receive and that are grateful for, ask for help, strength and blessings that we need, and end our prayer in the name of Jesus Christ.
This past week I witnessed many people feel the power of prayer; the blessings that come from speaking with our Heavenly Father. It is such a privilege and an experience to hear and see a person communicate through a prayer for the first time. The joy that they have is remarkable. What a privilege it is that we are able to communicate, sincerely, with our Father in Heaven.
I have seen blessings come to those who are lost in life, and think that the world is totally against them. I have seen those with feelings of depression, thinking they are alone, find joy through a prayer. I am currently teaching a teenage girl that has some depression in her life, depending if it is a good day for her or bad. One visit to her house, we arrived, sat down, and I could tell from the beginning that she was having a rough time and that she just wasn't feeling the greatest. As we began to converse one with another, her thoughts and feelings came out. We recognized her call for help. That night we watched a short film about Christ, and the last week of His earthy ministry. After the film we discussed a little about the sacrifice of Christ, and the power of the Atonement of Christ in our life's. As we left that night, she was still a bit sad and depressed from the things occurring in her life, but the next time we returned to visit was completely different. When we arrived at her door, she had a smile on her face. We sat down and started talking, and she was happy. She had been reading the scriptures once again, and found joy in her life through Christ.
There is found happiness and joy in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This I know is true. As I continue to serve as a representative of Jesus Christ, I continually think about the great amount of joy and happiness that I have in my life. My desire to share the message of the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ is great.
I know that Jesus is the Christ. We have a loving Heavenly Father. The Church of Jesus Christ is the Lords kingdom once again established on the earth today.

Of these things I testify and write, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

1/25/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

Another transfer has come and gone. I have now been transferred, and am now serving on a different Island, São Vicente. I served on the Island of Fogo for three transfers with Elders Nobrega, Chun, and Almeida, and enjoyed my time there very much. I am now serving in the area of Monte Ssosego Norte Mindelo in Mindelo Branch 2. São Vicente is different from Fogo, but I am sure I will adjust soon.

My last few weeks in Fogo, we starting teaching three brothers about the gospel of Jesus Christ. They were great kids, and loved each time we visited, but it was always the younger brother that seemed to have the most excitement every time we talked about the gospel. Every time we would teach a lesson and invite them to do something, this little boy was overly excited and just couldn't sit still in his chair. His excitement for the gospel was something that just made he overly happy, so see a young boy so excited about following his Heavenly Father's plan. We invited him to attended a baptism service of someone else that was being baptized, we invited him to come to church with us on Sunday, and many other things, and every time, he replied and acted with a smile on his face and great joy in his heart. Being "excited" about the gospel is a wonderful thing. The gospel of Jesus Christ is a plan of happiness for everything, and when I see people "excited" about the gospel, it makes me have the desire to be even more excited myself, and surely helps me recognize the many blessings in my life.

This past week here in São Vicente, I was pleased to meet many of the members and our friends here in the area. They are humble and happy people, all who are learning more about Jesus Christ. During our lessons with many of these people, I could easily see in their responses and appearance that they recognized us, as missionaries, as "True Messengers" of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Everyday it is a blessing to serve my Heavenly Father, and help others find the blessings which I enjoy in my life. I know that Christ lives, and that Heavenly Father is always ready to listen and respond to our prayers. Until next week...

For more information about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, visit http://www.mormon.org/

1/11/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This week was an exciting week as I became one more year older.

Now I am 20 years old. Wow! My friends here had an amazing party for me, and I enjoyed my first Birthday in the mission very much.

There is a Hymn of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that is titled Called to Serve that outlines and explains well the purpose of Missionary Work and why it is so important.

The words are as follows:

Called to serve Him, heav'nly King of glory,

Chosen e'er to witness for his name,

Far and wide we tell the Father's story,

Far and wide his love proclaim.

Called to know the richness of his blessing--

Sons and daughters, children of a King--

Glad of heart, his holy name confessing,

Praises unto him we bring.

Onward, ever onward, as we glory in his name; . . .

God our strength will be; press forward ever,

Called to serve our King.

I love the message of this hymn. The message is clear. We, as missionaries, are called and sent forth by the Lord, through His living prophets, to lands and countries around the world to proclaim his great message, to witness for His name and tell of His story. As missionaries, we enjoy the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and truly reap the blessings of service.

As a Missionary of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, as a Representative of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I am filled with joy everyday, having the privilege of serving our Father in Heaven, and telling all of His children about His wonderful plan for us, and how we can experience joy and happiness in our lives.

This past week I spent 2-3 days on a division, when I went to another area to serve with a different companion for a short period of time. I had the great privilege to serve together with one of my friends, Elder Coleman, and we had a great time together. Elder Coleman and I spent my Birthday together, but, we also worked our hardest, and really thought and pondered about the needs of those people that we were going to teach that day. As Elder Coleman and I sat in our Companionship Study, and one by one thought about each of our Heavenly Fathers children that we would teach that day, we followed the Holy Spirit, and planned accordingly. At the end of our day, we looked back at some of the lessons we taught, and realized that we had a really good day, and really helped some of our Heavenly Father´s children learn more about Him, and come closer to Him.

I know that the Holy Spirit is real, and that as we listen to the soft still voice of the Spirit, we will follow the will of our Father. I believe, without any doubt, that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the Lord´s Kingdom on Earth. I thank everyone for their letters, cards, thoughts, and prayers, as I serve our King, Lord, and Savior Jesus Christ.

1/04/2010 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This week is the first week of the new year, 2010. Wow. As they new year begins, one thing that I have been thinking about lately, is goals for this year. In our personal lives, we have many things to accomplish. School, work, and family take a lot of our time, and somethings we find ourselves saying "There just isn't enough time in a day."
Having a goal, or a desire to do something, along with a final result in mind, helps us to progress and accomplish things more easily.
When we think of "goals" we may begin to think about how much weight we want to weigh, what we want to do with our education or work, and other things of other subjects. One thing we may sometimes pass by and not think so much about is our spiritual life. What about the goals that will affect our spiritual progress. Some ideas for spiritual goals might be, our prayers, our reading of the Holy Scriptures, or even the time we spend with our family.
I know without a doubt, that when we make goals, we will progress and find much more success in our lives.
Missionary Work is going forth with full force here in Cape Verde, and I am enjoying every minute of it. This past week my Branch had a huge New Year's Eve party for the members, and they were nice and brought and shared some food with us in our house. With the beginning of this New Year, I see a lot of time ahead of me, a blessing, that I look forward to with all of my heart.
I know that Jesus is the Christ; our Savior and Redeemer. I love and thank everyone for their support as I serve here in Cape Verde.
In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

12/21/2009 Letter from Elder Joshua Shelhamer

This past week has been a week full of many wonderful things.

One thing that I really noticed during this past week, is the power and truthfulness of the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ.

As I Preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ here in Cape Verde, I am never surprised when our message, the message of God's Love for His children, changes the lives of many people.

This past week as we were teaching a house of 4 young men between the ages of 14-19, we had a wonderful lesson about some of the commandments that our Heavenly Father has given us to follow. The presence of the Holy Spirit was strong, and the messages was clear. Every time we teach a lesson, one of the most important parts of our visits is the end, when we ask our investigators, our friends, if they have any questions for us. During this visit our friends had many questions between what they have already learned about the Gospel in their Church and what we were teaching them. With the many different religions today, there is much confusion about plain and simple gospel truths. With the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ, these confusions and questions are clear and answered.

As our friends began to ask us many questions about "Why does the Bible say..." or "Why do most people think..." and "Why does my church say...," we answered their questions accordingly, clearly, and simply. The one thing that was continuous in our answers was "The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ" and how once they gained a testimony, and knew without a doubt that the Book of Mormon is true, all of their questions would quickly and easily be resolved. The Book of Mormon testifies of Jesus Christ as Savior, Redeemer, and King. The Book of Mormon clarifies truths of the Gospel that are not clearly noted in the Bible. Surely, the Holy Bible, and the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ contain the fullness of the Gospel.

I testify and know without any doubt, that the Book of Mormon contains Words of God; teachings of prophets anciently that we can still apply and use in our daily lives. I know the God Lives, and Jesus is the Christ.

Christmas is a wonderful time of the year filled with many joyful things. As I am here in Cape Verde, experiencing my first Christmas away from home, I am reminded of the many blessings that our Loving Heavenly Father has blessed us with. I am so very thankful for my family and friends who I love and care for greatly. I hope that everyone enjoys a wonderful Christmas full of Joy and Happiness.

I would highly encourage everyone to check out this wonderful website with many great things about Christmas. ( http://www.lds.org/topic/christmas ) This site contains great videos, music, ideas, and resources about the Christmas Season.

From my heart, with Love, MERRY CHRISTMAS! ( Feliz Natal! )