Guatemala - December 28, 2009

¿hola, como estan?
I'm good here, and the season went by good - lots of fire works and parties and loud music. I'm not a big fan of the holidays here, they are just so different, but I guess that's just the cultural touch to things. Thanks so much for the package; we ate brownies today :) oh yeah! We are so spoiled now! Let me know when you get the card, and ask Tamra if she got the bag - i tried to send stuff, anyway the most important thing is that you are all good and happy. I'm sorry that I did not get to talk to every one individually, especially Candice, but I'm really needing all the help I can get for this area and other things, so I really need to follow the rules. Just like is says in the D & C, ¨I the Lord am bound when ye do what I say. . .¨, so i just have to do what he says! Thanks for everything that all of you do for me, I know that we can be a family together forever! We just have to push through the hard times. We are teaching that to the members continually, it is going to be hard but the Road to Calvary was not easy, so we can't expect things to come easy, but we can put our faith in God and it will take our fears away. I know this is His Gospel and His church and his way, I'm so grateful to be a part of it. I hope and pray my work will be enough, but I'm just putting it all in the hands of the Lord. If there is anything that i can do for you all please let me know, OK? May our God always be with you, all of you!
con mucho amor para siempre,
Elder Grover

Guatemala - December 21, 2009

Hola! Hey, I just had the Christmas Conference, it was great! I got one package from you and one from Tamra, Yay! I'm so happy this time of year ya' know. And I am also exited to be here in Guatemala. The Area President gave us a few new rules, and I'm happy and willing to follow them. I can only talk 30 minutes on Christmas, so i will try to call the home phone first, and then the cell, we will see what happens. I will call at 1 in the afternoon (my time), I think that is 12 there. We have not had electricity here for a week, and we probably won't have it for a few more weeks, but we are going to borrow a cell from a member - I hope it all works out. Oh yeah, it is crazy here - fireworks and parades and a whole lot more. I am in Xela right now, but we are traveling back to Malacatan today. I love you all, thanks for everything! we will talk on Friday! con amor, Elder Grover

Photos from Guatemala

Gabriela's baptism
Elder Marshall and Elder Grover with Gabriela and Antonio

Happy Birthday Elder Grover!

Hey family! I must say I'm truly humbled, the last few week have been rough, but I want to testify to you that the Lord really answers prayers. When I got the letter from Dad, it was right when everything we had fell through. We were preparing a family that received a witness that the gospel was true, but the week they were supposed to be baptized, they left to work far away in a tobacco field. All the other people we were teaching did not want to hear any more from us, ... in short, we were praying for a miracle to help us get out and pick things up. Just about every time I have prayed for the work or for you as a family, a feeling of peace has entered my soul, I could not fight it or doubt it. And now, this past Sunday we had 104 people in church and a handful of new investigators to teach. It was branch conference, and the Lord heard our cries. I know with out a single doubt in my mind that the Lord's desire for our family is in the celestial realms of his kingdom, and he will provide a way for us to accomplish it. The road will be hard but the road to Calvary was not all that easy ether. I pray that we all will find ways to become more like Christ this season, for it is through him that everything is possible. I so testify in his name, even Jesus Christ, Amen.
I'm good here, I definitely don't feel like I'm 20, but the members are going to give me food tonight so that is neat. We are happy and moving right into the Christmas season. I have not received letters or anything in a long time, but we are going to have a dinner as a mission soon, so I think that is probably when we will receive it all. I'm not worried about you all, I know God is with you. I'm so happy to hear that Jesse is preparing for the mission ( it's just the beginning:) ) Felice Navidad! I'm so happy, just remember that and it makes me even more happy when you all are happy too. I testify that this is the work of God, and he is leading it by the hand of his Son. I love you all so much, and thanks for the birthday email! May God protect you and this family forever and ever!
Elder Grover

Guatemala - December 7, 2009

Sorry I'm a little late writing today, but we had transfers. Me and Elder Marshall are the only ones not getting changed in the zone, wich is great because we need to pick up the branch really bad, and we are starting to pick things up already. We found a family the other day that races horses. There is a lot of work to do with them, but we felt the spirit lead us there. I'm fine and all, so no worries this week. Oh, Elder Marshall will be 20 on the 16th, how cool is that? Just two days after me, we are going to fiesta it up! I would like to ask for some recipes, like German chocolate cake, my brownies and another cake. We are going to do cakes for the members :) So yeah, anyway thanks for the update. Yaygo Jens! That is so cool that you went undefeated this year! And for the other boys, how are you doing in wrestling? I want to hear from each of you individually, okay? Maybe I can help. Always remember that I'm here for you all, all the time. I love you all ,and I hope that all is good there. Remember to always put the Lord first in all things and he will put you first too. I know He lives; I put my trust in him and he gives me peace. I love you all with all my heart, may God keep you and us together forever.
con amor para siempre, Elder Grover

Guatemala - November 30, 2009

Hola familia! Como estan? espero que todo esta bien con ustedes yo se que la vida es ¨hard¨ pero con Dios nada es imposible. So your Thanksgiving was good, that is so cool that you all could be together, and the new little girl too. It made me so happy that you sent a picture, I showed the others, she is so small! So the family just keeps growing, so how is everyone doing at home? I looked at the calender this morning and I realized that I have been away from you all for 10 months now. I hit double digits, can you believe that? The work here is good, just has been a little slow lately, but we are hoping to pick things up. I kind of don't want to leave my kid, but changes are next week, so we will see what happens. Something that is neat was Guatemala had EFY, and some of the teens from our branch went. They were not thinking about going on missions, and they came back changed, and are full of the spirit. I think we will be progressing as a branch through this EFY, we are really happy. I want to know if there is anything I can do for you at all. I am called ¨to lift up the hands that hang down¨, I am always here, we are an eternal family right? Anyway, I will be here next week, con mucho amor para siempre
Elder Grover

Guatemala - November 23, 2009

Hey, how are you all doing? Sounds great to me! I'm so exited - Aspen Jenny :) what a pretty name! So I will be waiting for some pictures. That makes me so happy that everyone is doing great and that you have a good week planned out. I pray God will be with you and all the many things that you all are up to. Snd also that is so awesome that you had the opportunity to go and visit with Hermana Beck, what a neat experience! So, tell me some of the things you learned, any councils and advice? I love to learn from our leaders, I still have work on applying what I learn, but I'm trying. So, I think we are going to have a greengo dia de gracia, we will see how it all works out. All of our fechas (people that were going to get baptized) moved away, so we were shut down for the month, but we know God is preparing people to hear us. We are teaching two girls ,and they are really eating it up. They have family that are members, and it is comforting to teach someone that is really interested is the gospel. We are doing great here, don't worry about me. The work goes on. The days mesh into weeks, and the weeks into months. It really is a different life, but I love it! I know I'm called here for a reason, and it is the same reason that every young man needs to go, Moses 1:39. We are all brothers and sisters and some do not have the knowledge of our Father. How great a blessing is my calling! Is there anything I can do for any of you? Please let me know. Wish Teddy luck and tell him I will be praying for him. Thank you for your prayers and love. May our Eternal God be with you all this holiday season!
con amor, Elder Grover

Guatemala - November 16, 2009

So, how is the family today? It sounds like the weekend went good for you guys, Go Broncos ! ! ! Calidad! That is so cool, congrats Jesse! Hard work and faith really pay off; that is a testament that the Lord hears your prayers; just remember, we need to do our part for his work too! So now you have more free time huh? Still have wrestling though, but one thing I invite you to do is splits with the missionaries when you can and study Preach my Gospel. I know God hears our prayers and cares about each one of us and our needs in whatever shape they are. Is it beginning to look like Christmas up there? Here, yes, the mud has turned to powder and the sun is burning up everything including the Elders. But we are happy and all good. My trainee Elder Marshall is doing good and is learning the language fast. The last week did not go so great, and the baptisms we were going to have this week fell through, we hope to have them next week. But we are extremely blessed and happy to be working in the work of the Lord. I have thought a little about what I want for Christmas, nothing for me, but I would like to ask for a few old white button up shirts of various sizes and ties, nothing fancy, thanks! I was wondering, is there anything that I can do for you guys? I can't send the present I got for the familia with Elder Cannon, so I really don't know what I will do, it is not easy to send stuff you know. But I'm so glad to hear that all is well and everyone is doing great. I hope that you will always give thanks to our Father in Heaven, he really does give us everything. We had a conference with Elder Packer, all of Guatemala did, but the focus was on four things: family and personal prayer, daily study of the Book of Mormon, family home evening and paying a worthy full tithe. The promises given to those that better these four keystones were amazing. I testify that these small and simple things will become big and important in just a short time. I know this is the true church the Doctrines and principals have never changed but were restored by a man called and set apart, who was willing to do the will of the Lord. I'm fine here, no worries! God lives and his work goes on! if you need any thing just write :) con amor Elder Grover

Guatemala - November 9, 2009

Hey familia! How are all of you? I'm great here! You asked some preguntas so I will give some respuestas:) It rained for like four days straight last week, and now nothing for three days. They say that it is done for the year asta mayo. My companion is great, he is from a big family in Glendale, Arizona, his Spanish is pretty good for just coming into the field, we really enjoy our time together. The baptism went great, thankfully. We had to drive to Malacatan every day last week and do paper work, and then we had the wedding on Friday (that was interesting) my first wedding ever, but the baptism went really well. Our president de rama could not come, so we were sad, we just need a little help in the leadership, but God is with the little branch and we are seeing miracles. We hope to have a new church house, we just need ten more people to come to church. We are teaching the Mendez family, and they are really neat and very, very humble. We are just waiting on the birth certificates. The cool thing is that a kid named Evelio just moved in with them, some type of relation, but the thing is that he loves the teachings of the church and wants a gym book. You can just feel that the spirit has touched them. As for right now, we are really down on investigators and need a lot of help finding them. Also, the chosen need help finding us, so thanks for your prayers, they are so needed. Don't stop praying for the people, not just me :) . So I hope that answers a ? or two. Hey, tell Jens to keep his chin up, God can see the honest heart, sometimes we are just put in a bad situation, we just have to do what we know is right. Good luck Jesse and Go Broncos! Remember where the real strength comes from, the Lord. I hope all is well with all, and May our God keep you all safe and sound.
Con amor para siempre su hermano su hijo su amigo y misionero Elder Grover

Guatemala - October 26, 2009

Hello family! It sounds like you had a good and bad week, we had an interesting one too. But, I'm glad that you are all safe, and I pray that you all will be so careful with the sickness and always pray for the divine protection and health from God, he will be with you and hear you. So we had three baptisms this week, it was a neat experience. I will try to send photos sometime, but we had changes and my companion is going to Momostenango, and tomorrow I will go to Xela to get my new companion :) I'm exited, but that means a lot more responsibility, I will let you know how it all goes next week. So felice cumpliaños a ti! Jade! 15 years old wait 16! Are you driving? Man, I'm sorry the time is all meshed together, but I wish you a Happy Birthday! Don't worry about the race OK? You have next year, and it will drive you to be better, in the hard times is when we grow the most and the Lord knows that, we just have to push though, alright? You'll be alright. It works to focus on the positive, believe me. I hope that you all are OK and happy. Remember the every day little things: prayer, scripture study, prayer, family home evening, prayer, church callings, prayer, and the keeping the commandments - it is an everyday battle, but we need to do it to show our faith and love in the Lord. I love you all, take care, until next week! con amor Elder Grover

Guatemala - October 19, 2009

Hey, a lot going on huh? That is really good to hear about Jade and Jesse doing well in sports. Don't get discouraged about the deer, I was going to ask for jerky but... no; the thing is, we pray for help to eat, and God will always provide! I promise you that if we are doing all that we can, and praying and reading scriptures and having family home evening, he will bless the active faith, I know it. We are good here, we have a very busy, long week. We are going to baptize four kids this week, we are really exited and blessed. We are also teaching three other familias. The hardest thing right now is the heat, I think I'm sweating gallons a day - you gotta love Guatemala! I hope that you all are OK and happy, please take very good care of yourselves, remember prayer, priesthood blessings and faith. If there is anything I can do, let me know. I can't do much, but remember God can! This is His church and we are His children, He lives and His son is Christ, the Savior of the world, in His name I testify, amen. I Love you with all my heart, God bless you!
con amor, Elder Grover

Guatemala - October 12, 2009

Hey how is the family? So, you had the B-day fiesta for Stetson, huh? The school year is just rolling by and sports are finishing up, finish hard and remember where the strength and help really comes from, alright! So, how is the fresh cool fall weather? :) Man ,it is really hot here, and it is not going to change much, even when the rain stops. But the work is progressing; we have received muchos bendicones ¨blessings¨ here, so thanks for your prayers and support! I know that God has shown us his mercy. We should have some baptisms and three marriages, so a lot of work, but we are so happy to have it. We found two families that are so cool. Read the story of Ammon and when the king was asleep, Ammon asked a question and the queen responded, check it out. . . the reference is Alma 18 or 19. So this is the faith that these families have in our words, maybe not to that extent, but as close as you can get to it. We just have to get them married, so that will take some time. I love this work, I'm so grateful that the Lord has blessed me to be here working in this Gran Obra. So I'm here if you need anything, and don't worry about me! Last week me and Elder Proctor weighed, and I'm right around 140, so don't worry, and remember a missionary cant lie! :) This is the work of the Lord, I solemnly testify of its importance to me and to the world. Good luck in the hunt, and in sports and school and work and everything else. May our Father in Heaven always keep you safe and strong in your testimony! I love you all! Say hi to everyone!
su hermano y hijo y amigo y misionero para siempr
Elder Grover

Guatemala - October 5, 2009

Hello family, it sounds like you all are doing good. So, its been cold there huh? Wow, right now I don't think I have ever sweat more in my life! Tell the wrestling coach to send the wrestlers down here, just sweating will get them down to weight! So the team is doing good? That gives me something to tell Elder Cannon tomorrow. Jade is about to finish up with cross country, wow, the time is just flying by! Crazy! Wish Happy Birthday to Stetson for me, he will be 2 right? How is Candice coming along? Is Dad doing better this week? Jordan sounds good, he wrote me today. I hope everyone is holding in there and trying hard, that is all we can do sometimes. If we just put our faith in the Lord, all will be fine. So conference was great huh? Wow is all I can say, we were only able to watch the last three sessions. Like Jordan, I think Elder Ballard's talk was amazing, but like you, I think the power came from Elder Holland's the most, and it made me feel so good. Two days ago we found a girl that said the Book of Mormon was false, and she said she only read a little bit! I was so steaming mad, my hair could have caught on fire! Some people just don't really give the the seed a fair chance to grow. So, anyway, we taught her Moroni 10:3-5 line for line. You really have to understand the significance of each part, I promise that anyone who will really do it, will get an answer. I hope she will, we can only invite. I love this work! Really, I couldn't be happier! I know with every fiber of my being that it is true. I have a ways to go to get as powerful as Elder Holland, but I have faith, and little by little, one day at a time, my testimony will grow. They say your testimony grows as you share it, and I have been sharing it a lot lately - like I said, I love this work! So we are living in different times but we have the emergency equipment we need, we just have to use it: home evening, prayer, scriptures, words from the Prophet and other leaders. The easy things will make the change in our hearts and protect them. Conference was amazing, but like Jordan said, the words mean nothing if we don't apply them. I'm great here, don't worry about me at all! Take care and always keep a smile on your face. I love you all; remember, I'm only a letter or email away, let me know if there is anything I can do, and if not, God is only the distance from our knees to the floor.
With all my love,
Elder Grover

Guatemala - September 28, 2009

Hello! I'm just great, and how are all of you doing? Wow, sounds like ya' had a busy week, I'm sure glad to hear that your all fine and working hard at it. Man, can you believe that it is already October (pretty much)? We still have one month of rain, we more rain in the last week than we have the whole rest of the season! My companion only has two pairs of shoes, so he usually walks around with wet shoes (they take two days to dry). The area is beautiful, I love the people and the land. The people here are very hard hearted though, so we are working on that right now. My companion is great, we are getting along just fine and working hard. So this week is conference week; I'm so exited to listen to the prophet! I'm just about to finish reading the last Liahona conference edition, and am looking forward to more instruction from the leaders of the church. I encourage all of you to listen to all the sessions! Remember always the importance of family home evening and personal and family prayer and scripture study. These are the fruits of our faith, when we do them we are showing the Lord that we want to receive the blessings and help that he is so willing to give. I love you and thank each of you for all that you have done for me. I hope that all your activities will go well for you. Remember where the help really comes from. Dad, take care of your self OK :) If you ever need anything, let me know, I'm a servant of the Lord, and want to serve. I'm good here, and the work goes on!
con amor para siempre su hermano hijo y misionero
Elder Grover

Guatemala - September 22, 2009

Hey mom and familia, sorry i could not write yesterday, we had things to do. So I'm with the zone leaders today writing to tell you I'm fine, and you have nothing to worry about. You had a question about president? That's really weird that he has not gotten in contact with you, he is really an awesome and powerful servant of the Lord, I like him a lot, and have a lot of respect for him. Today he came all the way to Malacatan just to talk to our zone, it was awesome! The mission is changing; well, all the Central American missions are making some big changes. We are living in a very critical time, and the Lord is giving us the chance to prepare. I'm so happy to be here in the mission field. So, it sounds like the familia is doing good, and you all are working hard in your activities. I pray that you all will have the Holy Ghost to guide you and protect you. You should all prepare for General Conference in two weeks! I'm so excited to hear the prophet and the twelve again, it is a big blessing. So, I'm fine in my new area. We still don't have all that we need to be comfortable, but we are happy and working hard. I get along with my companion really well, we both have the same desire to serve with all we can, and that is what we are going to do. I thank you all so much for your prayers, they are very important to me and this work. I love you all with all my heart, God bless you!
Con Mucho Amor Para Siempre
Elder Grover

Guatemala - September 15, 2009

So, how are y'all? It sounds like you all are having a good time there, and staying busy, that is great! So sorry about yesterday, it was change day, so I was in a bus all day. Now I'm here in Malaktan zone, the state is San Marcos, and my area is on the border of Mexico. It is a small branch again, but we are opening it; there have not been missionaries there for seven months, so ya crazy we had to carry everything in on this little road and our house is really cool just empty we have nothing... but it is awesome. My companion has been out 5 months and is from Mexico, so I don't speak any English now, it is a thing of the past. It is pretty hard, but aki estamos! So last Saturday we had a baptism, and I hope that I can go back to my old area and baptize the family we were teaching - we will see what happens. Elder Snow is going to train. The 15th is their Independance Day here in Guatemala, so things are kind of mixed up right now. It might take longer to get letters because we are out in the middle of nowhere, but I will still write! I need to find the post office, but first we just have to find other stuff like beds, water, and gas to cook food - oh, and food! But we are going to do all that today; we will be fine, don't worry about me. So, I imagine there will be lots of questions, but you are going to have to wait till next week because we live a ways away from the city, the name of the area is La Batalla. Man, this change is hard, I was not expecting it to be so hard. I really liked my old area and it was hard to leave. But this is going to be a big adventure, this is what it's all about, I hope that we can serve the Lord well here. But I love you all, and may God's blessings pour out to you. He lives, and this is his work and his glory!
con amor,
Elder Grover

Guatemala - September 7, 2009

I got a letter from Jordan, he does sound a little razzled, but he will get in the hang of things, and he can call you every day so that is neat. Man, it is good to hear that everyone is gung-ho in school and sports. That is one thing that I like about the sports and stuff, it taught me to push through the hard times to get to the good times. We have had a difficult change, but the Lord has blessed us so much. This Saturday we have a baptism, her name is Josselin, and she is the older sister of our last baptism, Dairy, we are so happy. The change will end next week and we are sure that one of us is gone. We are sad because we found a really awesome family, and they are so positive. We hope to find more families because that is what we are supposed to do in this mission. Also, we have the responsibility of retention, talk about hard stuff, and helping and keeping marriages, and dealing with jobs, or no jobs. You just can't imagine, there are people selling the only possessions they have to put food on the table (there are not many that have anything to sale). There are kids that go without meals, and not because they are fasting, these are members of the church. But they are living and happy because of the church. So I'm good, I think my health is holding up, it is just hard to keep the stomach OK, but I'm in good hands so don't worry. Elder Snow had an anal fissur, along with a few rounds of amoebas - yeah, not so good, but I think he is getting better. So dad went to the doc, huh? Follow the right steps then Dad, that means do what they say, OK? I hope all is good there, I put you all in the Lord's hands, my trust is in him. Read the articles from the August ensign about Prayer and the conference talk from Elder Nelson about the Lord's prayer. Prayer is so important, have faith in it. I Love you all, take care, and remember the blessings come from the Lord Almighty!
Con Mucho Amor Para Siempre
Elder Grover

Guatemala - August 31, 2009

Hey familia, how are you all doing? It sounds like you got the RM all settled in, that's really good to hear. So things are still going fast and all huh? Don't worry, it will be a lot slower with me :) Hey, so I have a lot of questions, I hope that I will find out a little 'cuz I only talk to you all, and no one else, so I feel a little out in the dark some times. OK, Jesse played Kanab again, or someone else? Jade took tenth, where? Jens is playing football or running? And McKady is running? How are McKady and dad healing up? You said that dad and Jordan had doctor appointments, how did that go? How are things with your new calling, mom? When is Candice going to have the baby? Is it a boy or girl? Have you got the package and pictures, and the e-mail of pictures? Have you heard from my mission president? How are all of you doing on your reading of the Book of Mormon? :) Now I will answer your questions, I'm good... really, I'm fine. I got over a few little sicknesses, and am working hard. Elder Snow is doing better, I think that he will go to Xela, and I will stay in the area for another month, but we will see how it all goes in two weeks. Happy anniversary Mom and Dad! How many years? Happy Birthday to you, Jens and Kristy, have a good one! Y ser felices! Not much news to tell, but I do have scripture for dad, D&C 109:22; tell me your feelings on it. I hope all is going good for you all and that you always remember to put God first, and he will help you. I thank each of you for your prayers and love and all that you have ever done for me. I also want to ask forgiveness for my short comings and contentions that we may have had in the past. I know the importance of families, and that they are really forever. Until next week. . .
Love Elder Grover

Guatemala - August 24, 2009

Buenas! A lot has been going on sorry that I didn't write very much last week, it all just went blank. I really did have a good letter too - sorry! So, two weeks ago Elder Snow was in the hospital; he had surgery three months ago, and the problem came back. But we are all better now, and we had a really good week last week, so the Lord is blessing us. We didn't get a baptism this month, so we are down, but with sickness, you just have to take care of that problem first. We are teaching a family that is really cool, and I hope that the dad stops drinking. Also, our resent convert is looking for a job to provide for her two kids. She has one option to stay in town and be able to go to church, the other is to go to Mexico for 15 day shifts and not go to church. We are praying that she will get the job in town. So the mail thing - I have been getting mail, the fastest is pouch; packages average three weeks, and the normal mail for letters is about five weeks or more. I don't know why, but two weeks ago I got a package and like five letters from Tamra, and I had not heard from her in like a month (tell her thanks). Anyway, pouch is the fastest. I got the letter from dad that he wrote like just after McKady's seizure; how are Dad and Mckady? So, you are all busy, that is really good. We just have to attack one thing at a time and ask for help and God will give it. Prayer is so important, that is the biggest part for us is to get people to pray. God is just waiting to help or give an answer. So remember to pray and read the scriptures, have family home evening and go to church. I know it is so much easier said than done, but I promise as a servant of Jesus Christ, that he will bless you according to your faith. I read in D&C 107 that we have to learn our calling; we all have a calling in this life, we need to learn it, live it, and fight through it. Christ had the roughest one, so he can help us though ours. I testify that he is our Savior and Redeemer. I hope that all your things that you all have to do will all work out, I pray for you all and may the Lord watch over all of us and always be with us.

con amor su misionero,

Elder Grover ( Gro-b-er ) :)

Elder Grover and Elder Snow - seeing the light?

Guatemala - August 17, 2009

I'm sorry, I had a long letter typed and it disappeared! I have no idea why, but now I am out of time. I'm alive, and I will write next week. I'm glad to hear that all is going good. I love you all so much. Thanks for everything!
Elder Grover

Welcome Home Elder Grover!

Elder Jordan Allen Grover returned with honor on August 15, after serving exactly 2 years and 1 week in the Oklahoma, Tulsa mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

With mom and dad

With the brothers

Congratulations Elder, and best wishes in all your future endeavors!

Pictures from Guatemala

Elder Murphy and Elder Grover

This is a little warrier dude carved into the rock

District El Asintal - Las Palmas
Elder Grover, Elder Delos Reys, Elder Murphy, Elder Nielson

Elder Murphy and Elder Grover with the Hermano Rolando Family

Elder Grover's first baptism - Ceceilia Tacom DeLeon

Elder Snow and Elder Grover at the baptism of Liliana Lopez

Arkansas - August 10, 2009

Hey, how's it going? Fair time, school starting, you can almost taste fall coming - yikes! It is alright though. Speaking of school starting, we are already fighting that here. Do you remember how much I wanted to go to school year round? Well, they actually do it here. They do get a six week break during the summer and longer breaks throughout the year, but still, how awesome is that? A lot of the parents here are anxiously awaiting the arrival of school and the stability that it brings. Arkansas is the land of miracles though. I love Arkansas, if I haven't told you that already. Here in the adventures of suburbia - I am telling you. But The Brusters that I have told you about set a date for Baptism, Sept 5. Karina who is from Honduras is amazing, she has been coming to church the last three weeks, and we are going to be meeting with her in a members home this week. This is a marvelous work and a wonder. It was ward conference yesterday, always amazing - had the stake all there. Checking on us, giving us statistics and such. The one I feel is great is that there is over 60 between the ages of 0 and 2 - wild! Elder Brady, my amazing companion, is just doing well - he is going to be senior companion alright. So great adventures. Great miracles are going to be happening here. This is a very fruitful land, although the church population here is unusually high, we are still only one half of one percent. This area is just brimming with those who are so devoted and so faithful - wonderful Christian people, they simply need that fullness. I have a testimony of the truthfulness of the gospel, the power and truth of the Book of Mormon, the reality of a living redeemer, and the power of the Almighty. Keep reading Praying and Sharing the Gospel. There are a few things I might ask. One is to call Bro and Sis Seal. Another is if there is any possible way I would like to catch a session in the Temple on Saturday. And take care of y'alls selfs. Remember me in your prayers, and all of my brothers out here. Hold fast to that which is good. Serve God with all your heart, might, mind and strength. If we march to God we will find ourselves together in the end. I love you.
Yours forever,
Elder Jordan Allen Grover

Guatemala - August 3, 2009

Hey family! I'm so glad to hear that you are all good and working hard, hang in there. Hey, one of the days this week you might be getting a call from my district leader who is going home to Salt Lake this week - he has something for you guys. It rains about every other day and we work right though it, so we get pretty wet. As for how long I will be in this area, at least one more change. We had changes today, and me and Elder Snow will continue to work together. I will have 6 months in this area, it is hard, but we will make it. I still have unfinished work in El Asintal. I hope that all is going great for all of you, and hope the fair goes well and tambien with Elder Grover retuning home. Tell him I am going to be expecting an e-mail thing the next Monday. I hope that you are doing good - I want to just talk to you guys, but I am going to be fine. I just had a down week, but I will always put my faith in the Lord because he has kept you all safe. I have written some letters, so I hope the mail pulls through. The Spanish is going well. I want to hear all about your adventures this week. Keep me updated on Mckady and Dad, and watch them close, alright? So, if there is anything that I can do for you, please let me know - I'm here to serve. Remember that God is there too, he is only a prayer away. I promise you he hears and answers prayers in his time, he is just and loving. There is a good scripture D&C 98:3. It is really good we have things in our life that are hard, but we need to learn from them. The last Liahona message, I think it is Ensign message too, by President Uchtdorf, wow, it was good. Just remember the importance that Christ has in everything we do. Pray, read, have family home evening, go to church, all the little things that the prophets have said since time began, that is what will build our foundation and testimony on Christ. I pray for each of you, keep fighting for the right. Say hi to Tamra for me, and show the livestock to your best ability, you´ll be fine. Take good care of yourself and be happy!
Until next week con amor,
Elder JJ Grover
:) i love you all!

Arkansas - August 3, 2009

How is everyone doing? I hope you are all doing well - good, great, wonderful. Here is one for you, you know that swine flu? Who would have guessed it would make it all the way to Arkansas? No don't worry, I don't have it, but I met someone that did - kinda crazy, well, really crazy. I was in Bentonville for the day, and we went to have dinner with this family. And when we got there they told us we were going to have dinner out by the pool - yes, a real pool. So anyway, we found out that one of the children had been off to band camp at the University of Arkansas and picked up swine flu. One lady that we are teaching, she is from Honduras, not too far from Guatemala. She came to the church for the second time. She is very solid, she is coming along. The first time we challenged her to be baptized she just said, I've already been baptized before. Then she said, I know it is something that I am going to do, but it is more like renewing my vows. Not quite the right idea, but close - real close. We are teaching lots of very solid people right now. It is good to hear that everything is going well. Keep God on the top of your list and everything will work out. Although life is crazy and there is a lot going on, don't let the little things slip by: reading, praying, etc. Take a copy of the Book of Mormon with you. I am not promising an absence of opposition, I am just promising the strength to face it. You and I both know it comes. I am amazed at the difference in people. We had a situation and one person, although later sedated, erupted just a bit; while another with a cool even head quietly, resolved the problem, not only helping the situation, but calming every one around him. That is the Power of God. A second situation, one that has had a deep impact on me. As we were out we knocked on this particular door and a man answered, and after a short dialogue, he let us in. The atmosphere was tense, not contentious, but tense. He Asked some really intense doctrinal questions; one regarding the trinity, and another regarding the mortality and divinity of Christ -that he was all God and not a man. I have learned that I really don't have a the power or the knowledge to answer questions, but that the spirit does, and I have a very wise companion. So we simply began to do what representatives of Christ do: Teach, Testify and Invite. We bore pure testimony of the divine call of Joseph Smith, of the reality and truth of the Book of Mormon, telling him that the truth of everything that we share rises and falls with the truth of the Book of Mormon, and that we stand on that entirely. The spirit in the room changed and we both left edified. The book of Mormon is true. Christ lives and this is his church led by Christ himself. Take the opportunity to share the Gospel. Keep reading, praying and, sharing the gospel. Please remember me in your prayers. And I know that you are all in God's hands.
Your son,
Elder Jordan Grover

Guatemala - July 27, 2009

Father Grover was stung by a bee last Friday, and he is severely allergic to them. We almost lost him, but thanks to a priesthood blessing, modern medicine, and a life flight to Grand Junction, he is still alive! When Elder J.J. Grover heard the news, this was his response:

I give thanks to my Father in Heaven for having mercy on me; I can't express how lucky and blessed we are! I am so thankful that you are alive Dad! I know that God and his Son live and that they are blessing us beyond measure. The tribulations that we receive are for our profit and learning. There is something God is preparing for us, and we need to stand firm on our foundation of Christ and preservera hasta el fin! Mom, what a blessing to be called to serve in the stake relief society. Serve your best, God calls the weak and humble and raises us to our full potential. I would like to be at home in these hard times but just imagine if we were not serving and receiving these blessings! We are all still alive and fighting, what a blessing the Lord has given us to be together still in this life, and in the world to come. I know we are in the true church and have the saving ordinances. I'm sorry, but I just can't put words in to this computer, Dad, but I love you and am so grateful you are still with me here in this world, I still have a lot to learn from you. I will write a letter too, but I struggle with the computer. I love you - keep fighting! Hoorah for Israel! the work of God will go forth boldly! I will keep trying to do my very best, but I wont lie, this life is not easy especially the mission. But the thing we all need to remember is that Jesus is on our side, call to the Father in his name to receive the strength, and I promise you, as a representative of him, that he hears the prayers of the faithful. Pray for strength cuz I am too. May our God continue to bless you and keep you. We will make it! If there is anything that I can do, please let me know. I want to hear how everyone is doing, and stories and all, if you have time to tell me. But, I know that our Father in Heaven is there for each us, hold to the faith! With all the love I have now and for eternity,
Elder Grover

Arkansas - July 27, 2009

How are you? Good, I hope. How is Mckady? Y'all have been on my mind continuously. I have to tell you one small thing, perhaps coincidence. Upon hearing about what had happened, I didn't know what to think. But the next day I was with a missionary, and he was talking about the fact that he had to wait a bit before being able to come out because of health issues. So I inquired what they were. He told me that he had seizures, and I immediately filled him full of questions. I also learned about another missionary that had just gone home. He was out, then went home due to a seizure, and then came back - one of the best missionaries to serve here, I might add. What I am trying to say is that one, God loves us, and two, nothing has to hold us back. Anymore, unless I tell someone about my knees, no one knows. Anyhow, things are going well here. Still chillin' with my man, Elder Brady; yeah, that's right. Oh, here is one for ya', I have had a few more Blanding know abouts, one was a roommate with Gina Shumway. But also, there is a Brother Grover here in the ward - small world! So, I have not been able to sit down and discuss genealogy yet, but hopefully I will. Yesterday in church I saw him, and I asked him which wife he came from, and he said Hannah Tupper - yeah, same as us! But I think it was a different one of her children. He is from Rexburg. Oh, and Sister Merkley wanted me to ask which of Aunt Hazels Daughters was in their ward. God Bless you and keep you all.
Your son forever,
Elder Jordan Grover

A bad scare, and a miracle. . .

Last week the Elders Grover's sister, McKady had a really bad seizure - first one in her life - and we almost lost her. For details go to http://kennyamber.blogspot.com. When the missionaries found out about what had happened, this was their response:

Elder J.J. Grover wrote:
We are so blessed to have her still alive! I give thanks to God for keeping her alive. Life is so short, and we are so small, but I know and testify that there is a God and he loves each of us individually and personally. We have trials in our life to test and try us, and to push us to the very limits, to push us to our knees. We are candidates for celestial glory together as a family; we can not, and must not, give up faith in that. As a family we must turn together to our Savior, and he will help us. Mckady, our Savior has felt your pain. I testify that he is with you, and his love is what kept you alive. I love you so much! Have faith! Everyone Tengan Fe! I am so grateful and still shaking, but this is a miracle! The road ahead will not be easy, but God has given a mighty miracle for us, and I know that he has a plan to help us though the rest. I love you all, you are all in my prayers, especially you Mckady, I love you! I want updates every week, and I will write some letters. Remember God is there to help, turn to him in prayer and scripture study.
With love,
Elder Grover

Elder Jordan Grover wrote:
Please read Mark 5:36. You gave it once to me, and I carry it always. I know that you are in Gods hands. God Bless. I love you, and pray for you.
Forever,
Elder Jordan Grover

Arkansas - July 20, 2009

Hi, how are y'all doin'? I imagine that you are all still recovering from the family reunion; it seems to take forever to recover from those sometimes. Who all came, what happened? You know, give me the low down. Things are great here, it has cooled off just a bit the last few days and that has been really nice - not bad at all. Hey, last week we went and helped a part member family dig some post holes, he is building a round pen. But I tell you, people out here just don't know how to do it. No, I am just kidding. He is like, "you go a little over board". They weren't just posts, he was using railroad ties; yeah, it is pretty great. We met another family yesterday. He is totally an inventor; yeah, for real that is what he does. He gave us a little product; his little thing you roll up your toothpaste tube in. We were supposed to have a baptism this last week but once again, it canceled out the last minute - kinda wild. Satan is hard at work. But the good news is that this is God's work and no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing. This is the work of God. I hope and pray that all is well with you. I know that you are in Gods care and that all will be well. I hope you know that I love you.
Yours forever,
Elder Jordan Grover

Happy Birthday Elder Grover!

Elder Jordan Grover turned 21 on Monday, July 13. He is scheduled to fly home on Saturday, August 15. We love you Elder Grover!

Guatemala - July 13, 2009

Why hello! Andy and Alicia already had their baby! Wow, time is flying by! A few missionaries in my zone are leaving at the end of this change and the next , hard workers but they start talking about being home it is like, man be quiet I'm trying to stay focused! But I'm good there, my problem is the language, I'm suffering in that area and none of the missionaries or members have any confidence in me, so it is a shut down everyehere. We are going to have a baptism on Saturday though, and her brother is driving all the way from Guatemala City to baptize her, we are so exited! I have been so blessed, thank you for your prayers and all, I know the Lord is carrying me. So, I thought about a scripture for you, it is in Alma 56; yes, the story of the stripling worriers. They were taught by their parents, not just by word, but by example, the covenant that the dads ¨made and kept¨ and the ¨firm testimonies of their mothers¨ made a strong faithful son of God able and willing to fight for the right! We are in a battle of good and evil and little Stetson is going to be one of those stripling worriers in not very long. I hope you had a good birthday, McKady! And also, if you guys can tell my older brother Happy Birthday from the real down south! I'm good down here, and still working hard, I love you all and always remember to put God at the first of everything, and he will help you, I promise! Pray and read, and follow the profeta, he shows the way! I love you all put a smile on!
Until next week, con amor,
Elder Grover

Arkansas - July 13, 2009

Hi, sounds like life is exciting there. New life huh, I'll tell you isn't it wonderful? I know that there is no greater miracle than that of life. What a wonderful thing, new babies (speaking of Andy & Alicia's new baby, Dodger). And if you like new babies, there is no better place to be than here in the good old Centerton ward. We have at least two new babies every week, it seems like, and I am not joking. With attendance of about 370, and most being young families, it just comes with the territory. It is exciting. The new life of the Gospel is exciting as well. There are so many wonderful things, just amazing, really. This week we had an open house for the new building here, and the ward really came out in full force. There were over 30 non-members that came to see - definitely a great missionary experience. We had one investigator show up, a lady named Leslie Karina Watson. Surprising enough she is Hispanic, the name doesn't show it, but anyhow, she came with her fiance and her daughter, and they really enjoyed it. She was born and raised Catholic but was baptized Baptist when she was 16, but is really turned off to churches right now, though she wants her daughter to have a church background. She really is just amazing, she feels the spirit when we are there and loves the Book of Mormon. We were going to have a baptism this last week as well, one of those jump on you, set a date, get baptized a few days latter deals, but instead he is going to be baptized this week, probably on Thursday. Excellent young man. He came up to us in church a few weeks ago and said. "the missionaries told me to ask you about being baptized" or something like that. We were so in shock we just didn't know what to say. One of those little miracles, isn't it just wonderful? And then there was this family that was just moving into the ward, moving into a new home, and at the same time there was another family moving in just down the street. They got together and started talking about the Church and took them around the corner to the new church and showed them around and then invited them to listen to us! Yeah, wow! So we went and taught them and they were very excited, and anyway it was just amazing, and we will be teaching them again. Opportunities to share are all around us, we just have to be ready. If we are doing our best to have the spirit it will prompt us what to do. I love you all, y'all are the best. Keep reading, praying and sharing the gospel, and always remember that I love you. Tell Elder Grover I love him too and think of him often. God bless and keep y'all safe.
Your Friend and Brother Forever
Elder Jordan Grover
Doctrine and Covenants 88:133
"Art thou a brother or brethren I salute you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ in token or remembrance of the everlasting covenant, In which covenant I receive you to fellowship. In a determination that is fixed immovable and unchangeable to be your friend and brother through the grace of God in the bonds of love. To walk in all the commandments of God, blameless in thanksgiving, forever and ever. Amen."