We completed our first week in the MTC. The emphasis was Preach My Gospel, not something related to our primary calling as Welfare / Self Reliance missionaries, but pertinent none the less. Missionary teaching aids have changed so much since I was a missionary. We had a set number of discussions which we had to memorize, even the questions. Today, there are four lessons, but they could be broken up in any manner and it is all teaching by the spirit. It is so much more effective. The focus on teaching this week was how to teach and how to invite, and just as important, how to follow up.
One of the devotionals for those just coming into the MTC is called the Character of Christ. It is based off of a devotional that Elder Bednar gave to the MTC some years ago. The focus of Christ ministry was always looking outward, not focused inward. They had several speakers who demonstrated those attributes.
This is a powerful place. When we walk the campus, the young missionaries are all so respectful and cheerful. They are taught to respect the senior missionaries, and to defer to them in places such as long lunch lines where there invited to encourage the senior missionaries to go to the front of the line. They do that every time and are so cheerful about it. As Catherine and I watch these new Missionaries, we are impressed that the church is in good hands with the next generation. Yes, there are some goof off and a few elders and sisters who should not be here, but the vast majority are well prepared with powerful testimonies and a deep love of Christ.
This week, we are focusing on our primary calling in France, Welfare and Self-Reliance. Though that will be our primary focus, I am sure we will have a lot of time to serve in whatever capacity we find.
Latter-Day Saints 