Visit to Cambodia

Monday, July 5, 1999

June 28 and July 5 1999

Clint mission 99 # 27 7/5/99

God bless America!!! Land that I love!! Hello from the soil of my second home where we send a big hello to America in honor of her birthday!!

I have enclosed some of my journal and that will be my letter.

I am reading the D&C and I really enjoy it because it is always Christ speaking directly and I can hear his voice .

D& C 18:34

4 These words are not of men nor of man, but of me; wherefore, you shall testify they are of me and not of man;

D&C 18:35

35 For it is my voice which speaketh them unto you; for they are given by my Spirit unto you, and by my power you can read them one to another; and save it were by my power you could not have them;

D&C 18:36

36 Wherefore, you can testify that you have heard my voice, and know my words.

Let me share with you probably my favorite scripture on the atonement: D & C 19: 15-19

D&C 19:15

15 Therefore I command you to repent--repent, lest I smite you by the rod of my mouth, and by my wrath, and by my anger, and your sufferings be sore--how sore you know not, how exquisite you know not, yea, how hard to bear you know not.

D&C 19:16

16 For behold, I, God, have suffered these things for all, that they might not suffer if they would repent;

D&C 19:17

17 But if they would not repent they must suffer even as I;

D&C 19:18

18 Which suffering caused myself, even God, the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit--and would that I might not drink the bitter cup, and shrink--

D&C 19:19

19 Nevertheless, glory be to the Father, and I partook and finished my preparations unto the children of men.

I love you all very much!

Love your Son, Brother, Missionary

Elder Rogers

My journal entries:

It was such a blessing to spend so much time with a General Authority. Tuesday after Zone Conference, Elder Richards and his wife invited us back to their hotel for dinner. It was President and Sister White and Elder Hoare and I. It was great! I hung on every word that Elder Richard’s said and it was fun to get to know him. I am so grateful for his kindness and love for me. I feel like I have a true friend Elder H. Bryan Richards.

On Wednesday the meeting was to talk one more time about the suggestions and observations of Elder Richards and his wife from their tour of the mission. Lots of ideas came from the meeting. At the end he gave Elder Hoare and I a Lecture on Faith book sign in the front with a message from him. The past week or so I have been feeding off of this visit. Wanting to do better, to be a better assistant and missionary because of the visit of Elder H. Bryan Richards and the spirit he brought with him to Cambodia.

The other day we were pulling out of the office in the car. Elder Seare was driving . Elder Hoare and I were in the back. As we pulled out a moto was coming down the street and we could tell Elder Seare couldn’t see it. Elder Hoare and I got a little worried and warned Elder Seare but he did not stop or see the moto. The moto came by so fast. However we did miss him barely. Then we realized that Elder Hoare and I had been saying the word for sop in Khmae. No wonder Elder Seare did not know what we were talking about.

Sophon made a good move the other day. He had 2 moto’s, but he exchanged one of the moto’s for 2 bikes so the can all get to church now.

Yesterday afternoon Elder Hoare and I taught and helped to translate for the last session of the mini-MTC held for the 2 new Elders Koim Tal and Sea Samnang. For the past 3 days at the Mission Home we have been taking turns and having missionaries come in and teach the two new Elders.

Sister White talked about making Christ our companion by picturing him with us. One way she does that is when you are talking to someone that maybe hard to talk to because they dislike you or your upset or something: picture Christ between you and that person so that you don’t say anything that would offend Christ.

Pres. White talked about the importance of a mission. President White likes to say: Unless you become a General Authority never in your lifetime will you have an opportunity like this to serve the Lord full time, 24 hours a day 7 days a week. President also said “The most important convert that can come as the result of your two year mission is you and your family”

In the Cambodia Phnom Penh mission we now have 6 Native Elders serving

Elder Khai started in Feb

Elder Sang

Elder Chhean started in April

Elder Nou

Elder Koim started June 23

Elder Sea

Currently serving outside the country:

Sister Theany Reath Sacramento California June 98

Elder Chae Kim Chay Sacramento California Dec 98

Elder Pan Bromoul Fresno Calif. June 99

Elder Touch Soaphorn ( Chan) Calif June 99

Sister Tu Anh Washington DC June 99

And locally we have over 40 district missionaries who each have a responsibility to serve for at least 10 hours each week. This is our Cambodian Missionary Force

On Sunday past, Elder Stewart and Elder George, from the top half of our recently split area, baptized Chay Hang Tho. We taught him in the beginning, Elder Hoare and I, but then because of the split Elders Stewart and George helped Tho the rest of the way. We finished the month with 42 baptisms as a mission. That is 3 short of the goal of 3 per companionship. The month before we baptized 46 people and we were rewarded with a mission breakfast.

Elder Hoare and I give a lot of our time to the housing project. We need to replace the big houses like #19 and 109 and also get ready for the new Elders. Yesterday we went and looked at a house next to the American Embassy. #165. It looked good, but the landlord had 4 teenage girls downstairs. We will have to make this a matter of prayer.

On the 5^th of July, we are going to have a preparation day activity. We will take 2 buses and go to the killing fields, the Royal Palace, and then to the Cambodiana and have a devotional out on the lawn where President Hinkley dedicated the land of Cambodia for teaching the gospel. When we went with Bro and Sister White to arrange lunch they took us out on the lawn where Pres. Hinkley stood. I felt the spirit as we stood there. It is a sacred spot. President and Sister White said that they go there often, it gives then a lift.

Fast and testimony meeting yesterday was incredible! We talked to Sophols the 2^nd counselor in the branch presidency before the meeting and just reminded him of the importance of the conducting leader to bear his testimony first and then invite the members to come up. Sophok did just that and bore a strong testimony that brought the spirit to the meeting. The spirit was strong and the people were hoping out of their seats. There was no travel logs or duds, just personal experiences and pure testimony.

Elder Hoare and I were really enjoying the meeting. We were cheering inside because of the faith and testimonies of the Cambodian Saints.

We were sitting on the same row as Saom Soaphoan. She is the single mother of 4 kids, newly baptized the same day as Sam Sophon and family and she is such a sweet spirit. During the testimonies she looked over at us with this surprised look upon her face, and she had her hand on her chest. “I think I am feeling the priesthood,” she said. Elder Hoare answered back, “what you are feeling is the Holy Ghost.” “Yea, I mean the Holy Ghost”, she agreed. It wasn’t just her the whole congregation was feeling it. Close to the end and almost out of time she jumped up and bore her testimony for the first time. She told about when her youngest son Makkara was sick the Elders gave him a priesthood blessing and he got better quick. She said it really strengthened her faith.

Today we went on a mission excursion to the “killing fields” Just like the name says it is a mass grave of many Cambodians who were marched out of the city and taken to this area to be killed. A mass genocide similar to the story of the Jews in Germany. It is a sad and tragic place.

This reminded me of Alma 28:13-14.

Alma 28:13

13 And thus we see how great the inequality of man is because of sin and transgression, and the power of the devil, which comes by the cunning plans which he hath devised to ensnare the hearts of men.

Alma 28:14

14 And thus we see the great call of diligence of men to labor in the vineyards of the Lord; and thus we see the great reason of sorrow, and also of rejoicing--sorrow because of death and destruction among men, and joy because of the light of Christ unto life.

Sister White liked this contrast and put together a play for the conference. Elder Badger acted as Alma and read Alma 28:11-14 and Alma 31:32-35 . He had a Khmae costume on and he told us the scriptures by heart and then grabbed the shoulders of the missionaries on his way out that we might have success.

11 And the bodies of many thousands are laid low in the earth, while the bodies of many thousands are moldering in heaps upon the face of the earth; yea, and many thousands are mourning for the loss of their kindred, because they have reason to fear, according to the promises of the Lord, that they are consigned to a state of endless wo.

Alma 28:12

12 While many thousands of others truly mourn for the loss of their kindred, yet they rejoice and exult in the hope, and even know, according to the promises of the Lord, that they are raised to dwell at the right hand of God, in a state of never-ending happiness.

Alma 28:14

Alma 31:32

32 O Lord, wilt thou comfort my soul, and give unto me success, and also my fellow laborers who are with me--yea, Ammon, and Aaron, and Omner, and also Amulek and Zeezrom and also my two sons--yea, even all these wilt thou comfort, O Lord. Yea, wilt thou comfort their souls in Christ.

Alma 31:33

33 Wilt thou grant unto them that they may have strength, that they may bear their afflictions which shall come upon them because of the iniquities of this people.

Alma 31:34

34 O Lord, wilt thou grant unto us that we may have success in bringing them again unto thee in Christ.

Alma 31:35

35 Behold, O Lord, their souls are precious, and many of them are our brethren; therefore, give unto us, O Lord, power and wisdom that we may bring these, our brethren, again unto thee.

Then we sang hymn” Lord accept our true devotion”

We had some time to tour the “Killing fields”. I saw the mass graves and the tower of skulls. Our Cambodian Elders would not go and look at the graves. We had some quiet time to ponder also.

I have been in the Cambodian homes and I have talked with the family members that survived the work camps. It is hard for me to understand. I have seen the sadness, and pain in the eyes of those who remember and also seen the joy of the gospel in the eyes of those who rejoice in

Clint mission 99 #26 6/28/99

Dear Family,

Ok, Ok, The hair cut. . . .Let me explain. There is a Vietnamese member who used to be a professional hairstylist. He cuts the hair of all the senior missionaries because he uses modern equipment and knows English. Normally we just go find some guy on the street and get it cut for 25 cents. However to save time and energy because this Viet member comes to your house. He ask me how I want my hair done and I just said shorter. He asks me if I want it cut like “Bateman”? I immediately thought of two black bat ears on my head. So I ask him what is the Bateman du? It is short and will look good on you. There was no mirror in our front entry and I was surprised just how short it was. The funny thing is that it took twice as much time and cost $5.00. I felt bad because of my shorter than standard cut for a missionary one week before a General Authority ARRIVED. I’M STILL RECOVERING.

Elder Hoare and I helped arrange to have Kim Arn baptize Sam Sopon and family. We have such a strong relationship with them we hoped to prepare them to be fellowshipped strongly in the branch too. And it is better to have members to do it. Here the Elders are too popular and we always have to encourage the members to depend on each other.

Dad in your missionary talks spark the couples. Expansion and District leadership here hinges on the willing hands of experienced couples.

(Alma 60:30

30 Behold, I wait for assistance from you; and, except ye do administer unto our relief, behold, I come unto you, even in the land of Zarahemla, and smite you with the sword, insomuch that ye can have no more power to impede the progress of this people in the cause of our freedom.

This scripture may be overbearing, but in the spirit of what you talked about as you watched the sunset in the Caribbean, we the blessed of the Lord, are needed both in Zarahemla= Utah or the established church and also the front lines. Whether it be couple missionaries, mission presidents, Temple, Genealogy etc. I love being on the front lines in the trenches of the Lord’s work here in Cambodia. We are pushing forward)

Being an assistant to the President, I am very busy. The corn ice cream was very corny! We gave it away to the next door neighbors. I received a great letter from Elder Scott this week, he is doing awesome!!

Speaking of the first branch, attendance is up and so is enthusiasm with the addition of 16 people baptized in June. This especially is a result of adding the 2 families. It is like throwing a big rock into a calm pond. With the blessing of added families is also some bad news our branch president quit. He has been there in his calling for a while and was kind of “coasting” Now he says he is busy at work. It is sad to see him go. Other leaders have tried to talk to him but he has made up his mind. He really knew the mechanics of his job he did awesome, but he is struggling for spiritual strength.

I had an experience about helping others this week which caused me to think. I think I learned a few things. We were hustling to an appointment when we came to the little bridge. We saw a man whose moto pulled trailer was hanging on the edge of the bridge. The bridge is only 3 feet high. The sewer water from the city runs down a little canal and empties out on to the flat lands. The bridge was over the sewer water. We stopped and asked if we could help. He was pulling a big trailer or wood and as the trailer jackknifed it pinned the moto flat. Elder Hoare and I wanted to lift the front end of the trailer and pull it straight, but the man said no if we pulled it, it would tip and fall off the bridge. We could not convince him otherwise and he began to watch as he took off the wood stick by stick. Right then I just wanted to go because I knew we didn’t have time to unload the whole thing. So as we were standing there people were going by us on their moto’s. All starring at the “Frenchies” and the endangered trailer of wood. One guy stops and ask if we were the ones who caused him to wreak. We said no, only wanted to help, and that we thought we could pull it. He then go upset and started muttering Khmae don’t help Khmae. Meaning the Cambodians don’t know how to help each other. Anyways. He starts yelling to the people watching and going by and we all grabbed the trailer and yanked it up and off the edge of the bridge. Then we all said a bunch of “thank-you’s” and “soksbays” and were on our way.

What did we learn? Nothing new really, but we stopped to help even when we were in a hurry and many hands make light work.

Elder Hoare and I now call that bridge “ Khmae help Khmae bridge”

Well, hope you all have a great week. A scripture which caught my eye this week -

A manual of faith of the prophets of the Book of Mormon.

D&C 10:46

46 And, behold, all the remainder of this work does contain all those parts of my gospel which my holy prophets, yea, and also my disciples, desired in their prayers should come forth unto this people.

47 And I said unto them, that it should be granted unto them according to their faith in their prayers;

D&C 10:48

48 Yea, and this was their faith--that my gospel, which I gave unto them that they might preach in their days, might come unto their brethren the Lamanites, and also all that had become Lamanites because of their dissensions.

D&C 10:49

49 Now, this is not all--their faith in their prayers was that this gospel should be made known also, if it were possible that other nations should possess this land;

D&C 10:50

50 And thus they did leave a blessing upon this land in their prayers, that whosoever should believe in this gospel in this land might have eternal life;

D&C 10:51

51 Yea, that it might be free unto all of whatsoever nation, kindred, tongue, or people they may be.

D&C 10:52

52 And now, behold, according to their faith in their prayers will I bring this part of my gospel to the knowledge of my people. Behold, I do not bring it to destroy that which they have received, but to build it up.

Love your Son, Brother, Missionary

Elder Rogers

Monday, June 21, 1999

June 21 1999

Clint Mission 99 # 25 6/21/99

Dear Family,

Hello to all of you! Another Preparation Day. . . One week yet I feel that I have had a month’s worth of experiences. ( I have got 40 min so no big intro just start writing)

Monday morning we met with Elder Richard and Sister Richards. We ( President White, Sister White, Elder Hoare and myself, and the 3 Zone leaders. Each of us had to give a 7 minute presentation to answer the questions. )

1. What is the character of the Cambodian Phnom Penh Mission? Elder Hoare answered a bond of friendship amongst the missionaries and the members . Intense work, conversion, retention, activation, training branch leadership, trust. We can be trusted.

2. What is CPPM known for? Elder Rogers

Alma 28:13 And thus we see how great the inequality of man is because of sin and transgression, and the power of the devil, which comes by the cunning plans which he hath devised to ensnare the hearts of men.

Bringing the glad tidings of the Gospel of Jesus Christ working together to accomplish a goal. Exceed 1998 goal of 225. Baptisms, finish with 257. The District missionary program currently 40 people.

3. History of Baptisms in the CPPM. Elder McClain Viet Zone

The first baptism was in 1994 this year it will exceed 1,000.

Year to date 130.

4. What are the challenges facing the CPPM? Elder Folsom Zone 1

Khmae people have lack of example. No traditions of righteousness, Lack of unity and love in the families and branches.

Training of our Priesthood leaders.

What does the CPPM need right now? Elder Sorber Zone 2

More translated material

More Training

More families.

Time for growth and maturity.

After our presentations Elder Richards and his wife talked. They were excellent.

Sister Richards talked about pride from an article by President Ezra Taft Benson. ( An area I could improve)

Elder Richards drew this on the board:

_______________________________

Faith

Prayer

Obedience

hard work = Focus = Bring souls to Christ by baptism and

sanctification confirmation

etc.

______________________________

His major message of his whole visit was don’t do anything that takes you from your focus. He then talked about the atonement and the worth of souls to show the reasoning behind our purpose of missionary work. We are a baptizing mission but we can’t be satisfied, We have got to bring more souls to Christ.

I can’t let anything get in the way of bringing souls unto Christ. The Lord is speeding up the work here in Cambodia.

Several times in the testimony of people speaking there was statements made which Elder Richards defined as statements made by the spirit of prophesy and revelation. Here is three that I really liked.

“ The fully translated Book of Mormon, when it is published is going to be to this people as was the plates coming out of the hill Cumorah by Joseph Smith to the rest of us. “ Elder H. Bryan Richards.

“ There will soon be a temple here in Cambodia depending upon our preparation.”

Nou Hoan 5^th Branch President

6/13/99 District Conference

“ I am confident that some of you will return to Cambodia as mission presidents—Whether I’m here or on the other side I’ll help you and rejoice in the work that you do!! I love you! I pray for you!”

President L. D. White speaking to the Missionaries of CPPM 6/15/99 Mission Conference.

Elder H. Bryan Richards is my favorite General Authority. He put his arm around me several times this week and filled me with desire to do better as a missionary and leader in the mission. This work is fast and furious. I love it. Sophon and family were all confirmed and going strong.

Love your Son, Brother and Missionary

Elder Rogers

Monday, June 14, 1999

June 14 1999

Clint Mission 99 #24

June 14, 1999

Dear Family,

Word to all you sunburned “Lakers”! Sounds like you had a fun trip! Also seems like all of you miss me a bit more as you head out to the lake. Cause of all the fun we had before. Don’t worry Lucinda and I will be there in full form in 2000. Now back to the Spiritual stuff.

The major news is that we had a successful baptismal service June 12^th. Twelve people were baptized, two families. Sam Sophon his wife and 5 children and Saom Soaphoun a single mother and her 4 children. It was a great service! We went to their house yesterday for a minute to schedule the new member discussions and they pretended they didn’t know us. The said, “ Since our baptisms yesterday we are all new people, and so have never met you.” Humor was an important part of building a relationship of trust with this family. I have such a love and vision for them as a family. I hope that they together can start a tradition of righteousness which can be passed on to friends , neighbors and posterity. Wow it was great to see them in white. Sophon went first followed by his wife and then from oldest to youngest. We tried to make their day special. The Spirit was so strong at the baptism. Elder H. Bryan Richards, of the Seventy and member of the Asia Area Presidency and his wife were there. It was really special. And I just can imagine how I’ll feel about it many years down the road when I look back on it, or in a few years when I see them go through the Temple built her in Phnom Penh. It is going to happen! The Lord loves these people and He pours his Spirit upon those who will read the Book of Mormon and have faith to live the commandments.

The District Conference was a good success too. There were 654 people in attendance. The theme was Alma 5:33

Alma 5:33

33 Behold, he sendeth an invitation unto all men, for the arms of mercy are extended towards them, and he saith: Repent, and I will receive you.

an invitation to Christ. Those who spoke did excellent, especially Elder Richards who spoke about what we could do specifically to come to Christ.

Daily Scripture Study

Daily Personal Prayer

Listen to the Prophet

Prepare to go to the Temple.

I sure felt the power and Spirit of the Conference and Elder Richards’ remarks. I hope the members did too. It is quite a production with 3 languages going at one time English, Khmane and Viet. We have all been busy this week putting it together.

Well, I am about out of time. I need to get caught up on my journal and get ready for tomorrow’s Zone Conference. I will try to give you a better report next week.

I love you all!

Love your Son, Brother, and Missionary!

P.S. Elder Hoare and I purchased “Corn” flavored Ice Cream I’ll let you know if it is good or not. Doesn’t sound good, but had to try it.

Monday, June 7, 1999

June 7 1999

6/7/99

Dear Family,

A big fat hello to all of you!

6 Elders moved into a new house today, house 154. I have enclosed a list of all the latest moves. You will notice that our area switches from RM to TBL. We split our area. Also notice Elders Walker and Chean are office Elders. They are going to come in part time and do some office work to free us up. This past while has been fast and furious with all that we have been doing we haven’t had time for personal study and lunch so we are using the power of delegation.

Everything is falling into place for Sophon and family to be baptized on June 12. Elder Hoare and I fasted this fast Sunday that they could all make it to church and be ready for the 12^th. They were all there except Petra. He was over at the school making sure his name was on the list so that he could take the test the next day. Elder Hoare and I were worried. He needed to be there the Sunday before so he could be baptized and we didn’t want to delay the baptism or baptize on separate days. We went to their house after the 3 hr. block to see if he could make the afternoon branch. He wasn’t home. It just wouldn’t be as special to baptize the family except for one person. ( comparable to our family making it to heaven all of us there except one. . . . it would be terrible.) We taught our afternoon appointments on Sunday and didn’t know until Monday afternoon today but Petra had gone to the afternoon branch. It was almost a test of faith. Elder Hoare and I were cheering!!! June 12^th!!!

Sunday was just a tough day. Sometimes things run smoothly in the branch other times everything goes wrong. You feel just like Joseph Smith back in the log cabin coaxing the church along. Joseph Smith had to have great patience and an optimistic eye just like a Cambodian Elder. It is the true Church of Jesus Christ. Yet Christ loves us enough that he allows us imperfect people to learn, grow, and serve in his church and to help us become more like him. We are building his church in Cambodia.

I can’t wait to send baptism photos next week.

Love your Son, Brother, and Missionary,

Elder Rogers

Monday, May 31, 1999

May 31, 1999

Clint Mission 99 #22 5/31/99

Dear Family

Hello and Word up from Cambodia!

Clint says he finally received the packages of spices that I sent after Mother’s Day call. Also I received a box of Twinkies from Grandma Talbot. Thank you! All ten were gone within 24 hours of receival.

I have been very blessed this last week! I was on pins and needles this past Sunday from 7:10-8:05. I was standing out front greeting those who came to church yesterday, but I was waiting for our investigator family. We stressed the importance of coming to church in each appointment with Sophon and his family this past week. It was do or die Sunday. I felt it. I knew that future progress hinged on whether or not they came to church. The Branch President started the meeting at 8:00 a.m. and no sign of them yet. I knew that they were coming. 8:04-5 sure enough they came around the corner Sophon, Sovann his wife, Outtom their younger son, and on the other moto the oldest Linda. 4 out of 7. Yet Sophon and Sovann, the Father and Mother the most important. A good Sunday meeting. Good talks. After sacrament they wanted to sneak out yet we talked them into staying, for Sunday School and with no need of persuasion they stayed for the last hour. Afterwards I talked with Sovann she said, “ Oh Elder I was so scared. All the way to church I was so scared and even in the church. But now I can do it! I know that what is happening here is good and I can do it.”

That afternoon we stopped in and sat down and finished “Their plan” Their plan is June 12, 1999 at 4:30 p.m. Sophon, Sovann, Linda, Lean, Petra, Outdong, Outtom. They all want to be baptized and we made the plan to get them all finished off. It is truly a miracle! The spirit is so strong with this family. I can see the spirit changing them. I think that they are so great! I can not express how much I love them! I am amazed at the faith Sovann has. She told us about the day we met. Elder Hoare and I had stopped at their neighbors house to use the bathroom and we had already laid the plan to contact the owner of the bathroom. Sovann said the day she saw us ride by and stop at her neighbors, she woke her husband and said for him to go see what the “frenchies” were up to. They said that they thought we might be trying to deliver a letter from family in America. After using the bathroom I intro-ed the owner of the bathroom but he was not interested. Elder Hoare was talking to the guy ( Sophon) who walked up later. As I turned back to Elder Hoare he said “ Hey this guy wants to study” that was in mid April. Sophon likes to tell jokes and he said “ You know what, you did have a letter for me, a letter from God”. We laughed a little but then quietly thought about the truth of what he had just said. The letter to which he was referring to was the Book of Mormon. Helaman 3:27-30 I read this this past week .

27 Thus we may see that the Lord is merciful unto all who will, in the sincerity of their hearts, call upon his holy name.

Helaman 3:28

28 Yea, thus we see that the gate of heaven is open unto all, even to those who will believe on the name of Jesus Christ, who is the Son of God.

Helaman 3:29

29 Yea, we see that whosoever will may lay hold upon the word of God, which is quick and powerful, which shall divide asunder all the cunning and the snares and the wiles of the devil, and lead the man of Christ in a strait and narrow course across that everlasting gulf of misery which is prepared to engulf the wicked—

Again it is a miracle! A whole family!!! I hope and pray for their continued growth and happiness.

The Lord is working great changes here in Cambodia.

All day Elder Hoare and I helped move the Elder’s out of 210. We have found an office building 2 story which is going to be the home of the 2^nd branch also used much for many years by the church. I remember one day out playing chauffeur for Sister White and office couple as we looked for houses with big rooms that could be used as a meeting house. Disappointed at our finds on the way home Sister White says “ I wonder if we shouldn’t try to find a small office building. . . . . About 2 days later a small contract was signed. Pure inspiration!!!

I too felt this, we had signed a contract for Elder housing. Then all of a sudden the Land Lord brought the down payment back and said sorry I can’t. As I prayed for help and thought about it, the night before we were going to look I remembered a house in the right area that had been for sell, and had the thought to go back. I lead the group back to the spot. The house was no longer showing a FOR RENT sign but as I asked the lady said , “ That house right there is for sale and pointed to a house two down but did not have a sign either. They showed us through, we liked it, 2 days later we signed a contract. Pure inspiration!

The Lord is guiding each aspect of his work.

I love you all very much!!!

Love your Son, Brother and Missionary

PS Please say hello for me to the June Royal Army, I’m out of time.

Thanks for the mail and packages

The Cambodian Phnom Penh Mission baptized 45 for the month of May!!! Church membership approaching 1,000!!!!!!

Monday, May 24, 1999

May 21, 1999

Clint Mission 99 #21

5/24/99

Dear Family,

Hello! How is everyone doing?

Helaman 15:7-8 was the theme scripture for our Zone Conference held this past Friday.

Helaman 15:7

7 And behold, ye do know of yourselves, for ye have witnessed it, that as many of them as are brought to the knowledge of the truth, and to know of the wicked and abominable traditions of their fathers, and are led to believe the holy scriptures, yea, the prophecies of the holy prophets, which are written, which leadeth them to faith on the Lord, and unto repentance, which faith and repentance bringeth a change of heart unto them--

Helaman 15:8

8 Therefore, as many as have come to this, ye know of yourselves are firm and steadfast in the faith, and in the thing wherewith they have been made free.

We wanted a theme centered on building faith. I actually suggested those verses. They remind me of Cambodia. A people gives up past tradition and grow firm and steadfast in the faith.

Elder Hoare and I focused our lesson on using the Book of Mormon, taken from verse 7. Also taken from the desire Elder Hoare and I had to want to use the Book of Mormon more in our missionary work. The Book of Mormon coupled with help from the spirit is the best missionary solution there is, the best faith builder there is for both member and nonmember alike. While I am sharing scriptures with you, I can’t remember if I told you this before or not but Alma 28: 13-14 is the best description of Cambodia there is.

Alma 28:13

Alma 28:14

One of the great things I am learning from President White is about motivating missionaries. President White has asked to give appreciation and special attention and praise to those who are doing well. Sister White calls it giving A. I. R. ( Appreciation, Importance, Recognition) After this conference Elder Hoare and I were giving air to all who participated . Elder Hoare is a good example of this. Sometimes we split up and one will do touch up cleaning while the other makes food. Elder Hoare always thanks me for whatever part I did. Now before I wouldn’t have said thank you in this situation because we both did equal halves. I might have said, “ Good work or that saved time”. The positive good feeling of the conference was continued after the closing prayer because of our giving A.I.R. to each of the missionaries. I encourage all of us to give mere AIR.

Let me start by saying Thank-you to my great parents and sisters and brother for being so supportive of me. You are the best! Also Thank-you to all the great extended family and friends who are listening in. You are all very important to me!

Sophan and family are struggling a little. We are almost done with the 4^th discussion. Originally we set a date for May 23^rd but we have changed that to June 6^th. Sophon, Sovann , the mother, Linda, Lean, Petra are all so great! Linda has the strongest testimony. She comes each week, and doesn’t miss a seminary class. Sophon has been to church but we have to get the whole family to commit to come regularly. The goal this week is to address the church concern. The mother missed the 3^rd discussion about church because of illness. We are going to go teach it with her there so that she understands the importance of church attendance. Then she will help the rest of the family get to church. On Sunday we took Elder and Sister Call ( Bill and Mary) with us. They followed us in the car to their house. We were teaching Linda’s friend Sokun, a referral for us. We invited the Calls because of the need of a fellowshipper to meet a female. Linda’s mom sat in too. We followed up on Book of Mormon reading and prayer. As we talked about prayer Sovann = Linda’s Mom talked about one day she was mad at her kids, yet she didn’t want to be, she said a prayer and a few minutes later she felt a good feeling wash over her. An answer to the prayer of the mother of our investigator family! They are so close! We are trying to do all we can, at church this past Sunday we arranged for members to come to each appointment, Elder Hoare and I have both prayed and fasted together in behalf of this family.

In the Sunday School hour of Church the past two weeks I have had the fun and demanding challenge of translating for the Temple Preparation Class. It is being taught by a Brother Sturgis and his wife who are working for the U. N. The class is being taught to Melchizedick Priesthood and Relief Society age members.

Just barely Elder Hoare and I made a calizone. We usually buy them for $3.00 a piece from Happy Herbs who delivers. But it is expensive. Tonight we made our own from a bread dough recipe from Elder Brooking. Bread dough folded over tomato sauce, green peppers, onions, cheese. It was goooood! The food is getting better. ( If anyone has a easy recipe that can be cooked over a one burner—please send. Clint is getting bored with the food. Remember supplies are limited in Cambodia)

I forgot how yummy eyer kucken was. This past week Elder Hoare and I got to get at the White’s house twice!!!!

I can’t get as much done in one day like I used to could, with all the duties.

I love you all very much!!! Until next week!!

Love your Son, Brother, Missionary,

Elder Rogers

PS I received copies from Fire-Bu and his Mom. It was great!!! He is doing great things!!! Please tell Mrs. Scott Thank you!!!!

Where is Colby?

Thanks for the picture of the new cousin. Tell Uncle Bruce and Aunt Beckie- Congrats!!

Monday, May 3, 1999

May 3 1999 and May 17, 1999

5/3/99

Dear Family,

Well how is it going? Sounds like we have had some auto problems. Just like we tell the Khmaes when they ask why we don’t have moto’s or cars, “bikes are better”. Although I have had a busy week of shuttle service, we had four Elder’s sick this week. The good news is no traffic accidents, and all Elders are now well. I spent quite a lot of time with Elder Burnham. Tues. and Wednesday morning as his blood had to be tested both days. They were monitoring his platelet count, worried that he had dangy fever. The second day as the nurse was trying to get some blood she struggled a bit tried both arms. While this was happening I watched as Elder Burnham, from Soda Springs, Idaho, fainted his face went totally white. I told the nurse and she got a little excited and gave me the needle and tube of blood. I then helped her but him on the bed. Elder Burnham snapped out of it kind of as I man handled him up on the bed. His blood pressure was pretty low. I was a bit worried, but then the doctor came in an nicely took care of things. He started an IV and got a vein with no problem. This was all taking place at SOS International Clinic where there is a real doctor from America and real equipment. A small clinic but they even have ER stuff. I still don’t like to see the pain caused from sticking needles and things, yet I know and see that it is necessary and beneficial. I liked the way the doctor came in and there was no questioning his skills. I had about 2 hours of nice quiet time at Elder Burnham’s bedside as he received 4 32 ouncers and slept while we waited for test results. I read in Alma about great missionaries and faith. Pres. White wants us to center May Zone Conference on building faith in Missionaries and Phnom Penh Members. I thought about this, and said some quiet prayers. I also talked with Elder Burnham lots to keep him company and I have built a good friendship with him.

We received a new office couple this week who are pretty wide-eyed at their new surroundings.

Sophan our golden family update: His wife’s father has suffered some heart troubles this past week which really scared the family and has delayed our progress. We should commit them to baptism this week. ---- The call told us that they had committed Sophan, but not the wife.

Also out of the blue we received a message to come back and visit the husband of a member who has been approached before but now all of a sudden wants to study.

I love you all. I watched conference and the family messages caused me to think of my own

Love your Son, Brother and Missionary,

Elder Rogers

5/17/99

Dear Family,

Hello, Hello, Hello

I have a good a good recommendation for a good video to watch. It is called “ Where the Twain Meet” a KSL Documentary of President Gordon B. Hinkley’s 18 day trip to Asia in 1996. ( footage of Cambodia included.)

Also June 12-15 our mission will be toured by a General Authority. He is the 2^nd counselor in Asia Area Presidency H. Bryan Richards will be in Cambodia. He will speak and preside at a June 12-13 District Conference at the Intercontinental Hotel and also has scheduled time to be with the AP’s and ZL’s.

Today I had to do a major repair of the Japanese Red Rider. I had to replace the bearings and sprockets in my rear wheel. First major repair in 14 months of daily use. Monkey boy took care of me.

I’m a little short on time, so I will tell you a story from this week.

We have been meeting with Luau Thom and helped him learn more about giving a Priesthood blessing. After this training we were visiting with another member Heang who said his wife was sick. We talked about a blessing and the family requested a blessing. We scheduled a time to come back so that Luu Thom could join us. Heang and his family live right on the edge of a lake and when we went back for the blessing it was the day after a big rain storm. The Lake was much higher and there was 2-3 feet of water in their house and it was an island about 100 yards out in the lake. The family is extremely poor. The house is a one room shack and Heang, his wife, and two small cute daughters. We waited one more day to see if the water would recede. Nope , so we borrowed the neighbors little wooden boat and Luu Thom, Elder Hoare, and I headed out towards their house . There it was on 3 feet of water or so. The water was black and not healthy, so we road the wooden boat. It was quite an adventure. We were able to give the blessing and help encourage the family.

We continue to work with Sophon and his family,

Love your Son, Brother, Missionary,

Elder Rogers