week 97!!!

Hi, Mom. 

So, I'm stressing out to the EXTREME, and I'd be lying through my teeth if I wasn't both happy, sad, and crying all the same while my time goes faster than my head can spin from it. However, I've found 101 ways to help me cope with it, but none of them seem to be the solution. Like I've said several times now, I'm scared as to what's going to happen - to my companion, to my converts, and to the rest of these super nice people that have become my friends, and practically my family away from my family. But, as my Patriarchal Blessing has directed me, and serve those around me. I've made my own homemade ice cream recipe, and used it to make ice cream to all of the missionaries in my district. I'll be sure to attach a photo for everyone to see on the blog. But regardless, it's still hard not to allow my heart to get split in two by the chance that I may never see some of these guys again. Granted, it's a bittersweet feeling, because of all of the opportunities and newly open doors that are waiting for me back home, but I promised myself that I'd at least make an effort to visit my converts (and a few other super nice families) in March, because they invited me to their sealings in the Temple. I'm giving it my all, but if it weren't for your guys' prayers, love, and support, there's no way I would have made it this far. I can't wait to see all of you guys again. Mom, Dad, Leilani, Auston, and Nika. I miss you guys a lot, and for that reason, I promise to give my all, until the very last day. Until next week, stay strong, stay true, and remember how much God loves you. Take care!!!

Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

week 96!!!

Hi, Mom.

So, I'm not going to lie. It's been quite the fight. Looking back, I just can't find the words to describe how much I've progressed physically, but especially spiritually. I've learned to not only study the scriptures, but love them. Preach My Gospel (the guide/manual we have as missionaries) is highly underestimated, as far as the things it teaches us and opens our eyes up to, concerning the potential we have as missionaries called of God. I can only hope to be able to continue to put to use the things that I have learned down here in Ecuador. Like I've already said, it's hard not to admit that it breaks my heart to leave all of the friends and families that I've come to know and love, and return to what I can't forget is my home. However, that won't change the fact that part of my heart will remain down here. Heheh, it's funny, because a lot of the people are asking me if I really am ever going to come back to Ecuador or not. I told them that it'll be too hard for me not to. Not too much has happened this week for me to report, but I'm happy to say that my companion, Elder Ames, is progressing a lot with me. I can only hope that he'll find the fire he needs to let others truly know how much he cares about their salvation, and how badly he's willing to give it his all in order to help them achieve it, as he says to me. Before I go, I just want to share a scripture that I found in my studies. I haven't memorized it yet, and I believe I've already shared it with Leilani. But, it's found in Doctrine and Covenants 18:44. I love what it says, and I've shared it with a fair amount of the Future Missionaries that have become my friends down here, as well. Until next week, I love you guys, and as the time keeps widdling down, I can't be more grateful for the love and support everyone's given me to help me make it this far. Thank you guys so much. Take care!!!

Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

week 95!!!

Hi, Mom.

Okay, first of all, I got the package (like I usually do after I say that I know it's waiting for me, but it's just not in my hands yet, haha). The other three missionaries that I live with basically went ham on it, only to find nothing of interest (to them, anyway). However, I was more than willing to share with them what was in it (with the exception of the money, of course, hahahaha). Regardless, I'm extremely grateful, and it almost scares me to believe that it's the last package that I'll receive before I go home. Every package that I've received in my mission has made me think of how I don't seem to deserve that kind of spoiling from back home when there are missionaries with families that are barely scraping by when it comes to money.

Something's been stirring in my heart... For quite some time now... And it's something that's brought me to tears a couple times... It's something, if I remember right, that a good friend of mine and a really strong missionary told me... And it's this: We can't save everyone. Five weeks left in my mission, and I can't help but think about all of those people here in my mission... All of those innocent people... That (1) I may never in my life get to see them again, and (2, and this sincerely scares me, to be perfectly honest) I possibly may never see them again at all, either. I apologize now if this sounds a little too dark or negative, but once I come to gain the personal testimony that I have of this Gospel, it's also made it a hundred times harder for me to believe that despite all of the liniency in the Plan of Salvation that there may still be people who won't inherit the Celestial Kingdom. I guess you could say that that's when you come to know just how true this Church and its teachings are when you feel that these people are more than just our weekly or even monthly goal (a number, if you will). I've come to love my mission more than I could've ever imagined, and I've come to love these people and desire their salvation more than anything in the "world" (by that, I mean, more than any worldly desire I could have, like money, for example). I pray (more than I ever have before) in my heart that these people, especially the people (missionaries and others alike, to be more specific) that I've come to not only know, but love as well, that I may see them again... Someday... But, to not end on a seemingly sour note, I couldn't tell you guys just how grateful I am for this once-in-a-lifetime chance that my Father in Heaven has given me to meet such amazing people, and for the testimony that He has blessed me with. I love you guys more than words can describe, and despite having only 5 weeks left, I still miss you guys a lot. Until next week, never forget how blessed we are - all of us are - to have this restored Gospel, and for it to be a part of our lives. Take care!!! And thank you... For everything.

Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

week 94!!!

Hi, Mom. 

As I draw closer and closer to the end of my mission, I can't help but look back and see all of the people here that have become my friends - or rather, that I've come to care about. I've recently been opening my eyes to the fact that this has been almost quite literally a once-in-a-lifetime chance to have come here to Ecuador and preach the Gospel as a representative of the lord Jesus Christ. I couldn't be more grateful for the things that I've learned, for the person that I've become, and for the people I've met. Though my mission hasn't been the easiest (and I know I've not stressed saying that enough), I know that my Savior loves me, I know that God loves me, and I know that the things that I have learned in my mission I wouldn't have learned if it weren't for the miracles - both big and small - that I have been a witness of. I'll be sure to attach a picture of my companion, Elder Ames from South Dakota for everyone to see on the blog. He's super chill, but he hasn't yet received a strong testimony of the Missionary Work, so as a result, things such as appointments falling through seem to discourage him easily. I've personally learned that looking for opportunities to serve has really helped strengthen and fortify my testimony of the Work, because it's helped me remember again and again that I've been "called to SERVE." It won't be a problem for me to give my Homecoming Talk, especially after being given the testimony that I've been blessed with by God. Peñon (pronounced pen-eeown, by the way for those that were probably asking) isn't the easiest sector, but like President Riggins assures me, it sure makes it hard for me to think about going home from all of the work that needs to get done there, hahahahaha! This isn't going to be a super long entry, but allow me to close it by reciting the final verse of probably my favorite hymn, "The Day Dawn is Breaking". It goes like this: "Then pure and supernal, our friendship eternal, With Jesus we'll live, and his counsels obey. Until ev'ry nation will join in salvation, And worship the Lord of the beautiful day." It helps remind of all of the amazing friends (missionaries and people of Ecuador alike) that I've come to make these past 22 months, and how special I find them to be. Until next week, I'm super glad to hear all of the awesome changes, even though it gives me a little heartache to come back to a home so different, haha! I love you guys, and I can't to see you guys in absolutely no time at all now. Take care!!!

Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

week 93!!!

Hi, Mom. 

Sorry for writing so late. I had to travel from Duran to Guayaquil and back to Duran in order to have an interview with President Riggins and renew my Temple Recommend (it was expired), so I can attend the Temple this coming Friday with my companion and my new ward of Peñon del Rio. That's right, like my title implies, I got transferred after being in Oramas Gonzales for only 3 weeks. Again, I didn't do anything wrong, it was because President found it good that we had the companions we do, but it would be slightly better for both ends if I simply swapped companions, even though I'm still living in the same house, and still working in the same zone. It's been a little difficult, because my new companion, Elder Ames from South Dakota, is still learning Spanish, he's a little awkward and nervous still (despite having almost 11 months in the mission), and he doesn't seem to be too excited to be here (or at least, not nearly as excited as I am to be here, which is hard to compare to, hahahahaha). Still, I'm grateful to be with him, I love all of my companions, and President did mention to me in my previous interview last week that it's very probable that I will be ending my mission both in Peñon and with Elder Ames as my last companion. For that reason, I'm a little stressed trying to make every waking moment of every day count by teaching, finding people to teach, and helping my new companion become the "superweapon AKA extraordinary missionary" that President believes I can help him become. Prior to that, I've been finding a little more joy from taking a more closer look at the little things, searching for ways to serve the other missionaries I live with (making them breakfast, shining their shoes, etc.) (which I might add has seemed to improve my relationship with them, as far as them telling me how awesome my french toast is). Regardless, I've been trying my absolute best to make my time count. Peñon, I have to admit, isn't the best of wards, and it also makes me wonder how it's still a ward and not a branch from the lack of missionary work. It makes me scared, because an illusion that I've come to know as a tool of Satan during my mission is that the wards I've served in do better after I left, or in other words, without me. It makes me discouraged, but the power of prayer and my personal diligence and faithfulness has been making it easier and easier to endure to the end. Even though my mission has been crazy difficult personally, I couldn't be more grateful to have been given the chance to serve, to become the person I am now, and for the Spirit and love I've been able to feel these past 22 months. I love you guys, thanks so much for the love, the prayers, and support, and until next week, just remember: "Tomorrow will do wonders among you." Take care!!!

Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

week 92!!!!

Hi, Mom and Dad. So, this past week has been BEYOND difficult, and not because of my companion. Surprisingly, things are getting better between us (more or less, but beggars can't be choosers). However, things aren't looking to well for where I'm serving, which is Ward Oramas Gonzalez. This past Sunday had to have been the biggest (I hate to say it in this manner, but) joke I believe I have ever seen on my mission. It was extremely irreverent until the very end, and don't even get me started on the Ward Council meeting that we had afterwards. It was an hour and a half of us going back and forth with the Bishop, and the Relief Society President (which just so happens to be the Bishop's sister) about a topic as ridiculous as our lunches that the ward is providing us with. Then, the bishop assured us that tracting (or knocking doors) "gives us memorable experiences", and also "builds character." I hate to sound as short-fused as I do, but I only have 2 months left before I'm on a plane back to the United States. I've nearly had my personal fill of spiritual experiences (of which I'm grateful for, might I add). However, this is definitely not the case. What I think they need to come to know is that we're not eating at member's houses simply because we're hungry, and we also want to bless their families. Actually, the main reason we come to these hospitable members' houses is not only to bless their families, but to receive any referrals that they ought to have for us. Even if it simply be them pointing across the street and asking us to try their "neighbors", then that's perfectly fine with us. I however learned that we easily have 5 or so "back-ups" if our lunch does just so happen to fall through, which again gives me the right to draw the conclusion that the necessity for us eating is not the case. Not only that, but there is a very prominent lack of fellowshipping in this ward, especially if the most I've seen them have here for their attendance was their Ward Conference, with 125 attendance. I pray that they get their acts together, otherwise, President's going to take a look at our numbers and take us both out from the very obvious lack of progress in our sector. It's heartbreaking to see or hear about a sector getting closed for those kinds of reasons as opposed to the clear other side of the spectrum (they're too self-sufficient concerning the Home Teachers, Visiting Teachers, Self-Sufficiency Classes, and other methods of Fellowshipping that all wards around the world ought to have in their arsenals and at their disposals. No matter, I guess. The best my companion and I could to is just keep doing our best, and face the music. Whatever happens, we both know that it's not our fault, but I would hate to have that slight feeling that we could've been able to at least speak up and say something. But again, I'm not one to step outside of my line of authority that we have as missionaries. I love you guys, I miss you guys, and I have to apologize for the lack of pictures, because I lost my battery charger after getting transferred from Balzar. I'll try my best to take as many pictures as I can (and to send them for those reading the blog), but until next week, keep praying often, and remember how much Jesus loves you! Take care!!!

Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

 I love you guys!!!

Week 91

Hi, Mom. So, I learned this past week that this ward needs far more help than I initially thought it needed. My companion does talk to me a little more, simply because I'm willing to go out of the way and build some unity between us, as opposed to us having an awkward companionship until either we get transfers or I go home. If there's anything that I could let him know, it's that I love all of my companions, no matter how much they may or may not like me, but I know leaving those kinds of feelings to stir inside of me aren't going to help anyone (especially me). So, just as a quick little summary, I'm a little stressed out (if you guys couldn't tell), because my mind's just been all over the place, thinking about my companion, my sector, my family/home, and just thinking about how I can not lose my marbles before I come home this September. However, so as not to end this e-mail on a sour note, I just want to give a big shout-out to back home by saying HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!! I do have plans to make us some of these burgers that I found in the supermarket here in Durán, so maybe that'll help break the ice and tension that's a little uncomfortably prominent between Elder Ames and I (the Gringos) and our companions, who just so happen to both be from Peru. I am a bit bitter about not being able to see some explosions, but I honestly wouldn't trade this Work for absolutely anything in the world. I'm so grateful for the things that the mission has opened my eyes up to, and I even felt prompted to bear my testimony about it yesterday. I would like to give another huge thank you for all of the love, the prayers, and the support that everyone's given me during my mission, because I truly feel like I never would've made it even this far if it weren't for everyone. Thank you guys so much, and until next week, take care!!!


Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

Week 90

Hi, Mom.


Okay, so my new ward of Orama Gonzalez is definitely not what I had in mind of what it would be like (SUPER dusty), and to be perfectly honest... Elder Obeso hardly talks to me. I'm highly certain it's because he didn't feel ready at all for his companion before me to get transferred, but at the same time, I need him to know that I'm 100% willing to work alongside him, especially because he's neck-deep in pressure both from the necessary work and adjustments in our ward, in addition to him being District Leader. The last thing I want to do is "trunky out", and then feel like I wasted the last 3 months of my mission like a lot of other missionaries by doing things like sleeping in, not studying, and above all, not helping my companion. I love my companions (no matter how they treat me), and I find a little bit of symbolism in it; that no matter what trials and tribulations may fall upon my family - my parents, my siblings, and even my future wife and children - I just want them to never forget how much I love them, and I can't say how grateful I am to have them in my life. It sure hasn't been the easiest mission, but the things that I've learned here are truly unforgettable, and they've filled me with too much light and love to not want to share them with those around me. If there's two things I could say to absolutely anyone and everyone I possibly humanly can, it's (1) I'm sorry. For whatever it could possibly be, that's up to you to decide, but I just want to you that I'm truly, sincerely sorry from the bottom of my heart. Also (2) I love you. Again, for whatsoever reason it may be, I want you to figure it out for yourself (or yourselves, rather), but just know that I want to say I love you, and thank you. Life, I learned, is too short to make enemies as opposed to friends, which is why I'm beyond grateful for the love and the charity that the people here in Ecuador and on my mission have shown me. I honestly feel like I don't deserve it, especially for the mistakes that I've made. However, I love my Father in Heaven, and my Savior Jesus Christ specifically because of how merciful and loving they are... To all of us. To share that with others is a blessing, because it's become such a prominent part of my own personal testimony. My title for this week's entry is beyond cliche, I know, but I just wish to let everyone know: Can you guess how much I love you? ... I love you to the Moon (or in my case, the Mission) and back. Until next week, I want to thank everyone for all of the prayers and support, especially to help me come this far already. Take care!!!


Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

Week 89

Hi, Mom. So, if you guys haven't guessed yet, the reason why I'm so late to write you guys this week is (of course) because I got transferred. It wasn't because of anything wrong, but there were just a huge amount of transfers, missionaries finishing, and new missionaries coming all at the same time. I'm going to miss working with Elder Melzer and the Vergeles Ward a lot, especially because of how AMAZING it felt to work there. I'm now in the Zone Duran Norte (North), and my new companion is Elder Obeso from Peru. I have no idea how to pronounce my new sector's name, and I'm still trying to wrap it around my head that I got transferred after only more or less 6 weeks in Vergeles. But, if you ask anyone, I'm not one to question the will of God. If God says my service is needed elsewhere, then I'll Go Where You Want Me To Go. I don't really have too much to say because of my sudden transfer, but I did have plans to write you guys and testify about how much I've learned, especially these past couple of weeks (entering into the last stretch, and all). I can see my Spirit and testimony growing, and it almost breaks my heart that I'm starting to see this change in myself now, as opposed to sooner in my mission. More than absolutely anything in the world, I wish I could come back to Ecuador as soon as I can after my mission. I really want to see all of the people that I got to meet and help progress spiritually during my time here, and as strange as this may sound, I may consider living here, and seeing how I can perhaps help hasten the work. Obviously not as a missionary, but as an extremely faithful member. As of two weeks (especially after hearing the super powerful devotional by Elder Rasband, I've gained a new-found love for the people here in Ecuador, and helping them progress spiritually. Though I'm down to my last 12 weeks here as a missionary, I'm going to promise all of you guys that I'll make the absolute most of each and every day. I love you guys, and I pray that you guys can continue to seek for the Lord's hand each day by looking for even the littlest of miracles. Until next week, keep praying often, and I want to thank everyone for all of the love and support. Take care!!!

Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

Week 88

Hi, Mom. So, as you guys can clearly see from my title for this week's entry, I had the one-of-a-kind opportunity to (once again, I guess you could say, because I got to do it in the Mexico MTC, too) shake hands and come face-to-face with a divine servant, prophet, seer, and revelator called by God. Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles visited Guayaquil last Saturday, and the Spirit that he brought with him is... I want to say pure, but at the same time, I can't seem to find the right spot-on description for it. For sure, I personally found it breath-taking, especially paired up with the talk he gave to us of the Guayaquil North Mission, in addition to the Guayaquil West Mission and the Guayaquil South Mission being present, as well. I absolutely loved how direct his teachings were, how sincere his voice was, and the doctrine he used to help us understand a little clearer was just mind-blowingly awesome. His wife, Sister Melanie Rasband, also shared a quick yet direct testimony about Missionary Work, and the unique kind of Spirit that it invites into each of our lives. It was a huge privilege to hear what Sister Rasband, Elder Montoya (Counselor of the Southamerica Northwest Area), and Elder Rasband all had to say about how we can truly, sincerely, and easily help those around us recognize us as representatives of the Lord Jesus Christ, and messengers called and sent by God. They instructed us that if we can help our brothers and sisters see the sparkle in our eyes and the happiness in our smiles, then they'll be able to recognize the love in our hearts that we have for them, and the desires we have for their salvation. In addition to that, Elder Rasband also answered some really interesting questions that some of the missionaries had for him about his past talk, "The Divine Call of a Missionary", as well as about Church Doctrine, in general. A sister missionary from the West Mission asked Elder Rasband about how we can more easily discern the promptings of the Spirit from our own personal thoughts and desires (as simple sons and daughters of God). In response, he quoted Moroni 7, which states that all good comes from God, and all bad comes from... Another source. If we can make the right decision and draw a firm enough conclusion based from what we can understand (thanks to the Light of Christ which we were all born on Earth with, and also the gift of the Holy Ghost which all of us Latter-Day Saints have been blessed with), then the answer ought to be simple, as opposed to unnecessarily difficult, at times. I just want to say how I learned a LOT from such a short yet extremely powerful time, being able to hear the words, the thoughts, and the feelings of a true disciple of Jesus Christ. I pray that each of you guys can come to recognize each of the Twelve Apostles, and of course, the First Presidency (and the rest of the General Authorities called to edify this restored Gospel), as men (and women) with unbelievably strong testimonies about just how special, how important, and how great this Church and its teachings really are in our lives. Before I go, I just want to wish my dad a Happy Father's Day, and for being such a great example to me. I know that each of the decisions he made - and continues to make - to this day have been for the benefit and well-being of our loving family. Until next week, I love you guys, keep praying often, and remember to stay faithful and stay true to what you know to be true. Take care!!!


Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke


PS: I attached some pictures of this super weird fruit and plant that Elder Melzer and I found walking down the street last week.

Week 87

Hi, Mom. So, I'm not going to lie, when I say that this past week and this upcoming week are going to be the most stressful weeks that I believe I have ever had the misfortune of encountering in the mission. Last week, I couldn't help, but think a LOT about home (the basic things that tend to scare a soon-to-be Returned Missionary, like Job, Education, and Marriage). Not only that, but this week, we have House Inspections from Pdt. and Sis. Riggins, AND a Multi-mission Conference with special guest Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Also, we have a new system of reporting our numbers and progress to the District and Zone Leaders, which is super annoying just to watch my buddy Elder Williams deal with, because he's District Leader (but not our's, which makes this Calling Game that he now has to play a whole lot more fun to watch). In other words, all four of us are super stressed out, and it's just making teaching (and trying to find more people to teach, because we're running out) a whole lot more "joyful", hahahahahaha. Hope everything's going great at home, tell Nika and Auston congratulations for me, because I could tell from our Skype Call last Mother's Day that they earned those awards. Let Nika know that I also wish her a Happy 12th Birthday, in addition to telling you and Dad Happy 22nd Anniversary (this is the part where Leilani plays Taylor Swift's song "22", and doesn't laugh at my bad pun joke). Perhaps that's why last week felt so... Hollow to me, due to the lack of celebration. Anyway, I love all you guys a ton, and I hope you guys had an awesome celebration for both occasions. I hope Leilani's not losing any hopes of going on a mission, because I can't tell her and the rest of you guys just how big a blessing it's been for me to serve. I'm grateful for all of the things I've learned here, and also for all of the amazing people that I've come to know, love, and help draw closer to God, as I have. I love you guys, and I would totally send more pictures... If I had the time to take any this past week, hahahahahaha. But, I promise that I'll make it up to you guys, because this place is AWESOME! But, until next week, stay "classy"! (Do you guys get it?? Because school's out for Summer Vacation, and there aren't any classes until just before I get back, and... Nevermind, my pun-jokes aren't as funny as they are in my head, hahaha...) Love you guys, and take care!!!


Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "poderoso" Parke


PS: I did get your guys' package, and I'm SUPER grateful for what was in it, especially the white shirts. The money I had to use to scrape by, because we didn't get money for 3 whole weeks, but I'm okay. Thanks, and I love you guys!

Week 86

Hi, Mom. So, this week was SUPER slow. We didn't teach too many lessons, but I suppose 5 new investigators makes up for it. We ate at some amazing member families here in Vergeles. The family we ate at last Tuesday, Familia Macias, gave us Yapingacho for lunch, which is Elder Melzer's and my favorite food they serve for lunch here. Then, last Friday, we ate at the Bishop's home, and him and his wife made us the most spectacular lasagña that we believe has ever hit our taste buds. She literally gave us each a "brick" of it, so we left feeling like we were going to explode, and die happy, hahahaha. It's been really cool taking the time to watch and converse with all of the Returned Missionaries, in addition to the Future Missionaries that this ward has. They all have super strong testimonies, especially about the Missionary Work, and it just helps me see how much I personally have grown, physically and spiritually. It hasn't been the easiest ride, but it's been one of the most fun (or as I used to say, "funnest") rides I've taken in the past 21 years. It's funny, because a lot of them (and also their families) ask Elder Melzer and I if we miss our families, too. I tell them of course I do, and I wouldn't be human if I didn't. However, we only get one shot at this, so if that means losing ourselves in The Great & Marvelous Work, and leaving behind the Family, Friends, Job, (and as much as it pains me to say this,) Food, Martial Arts, and Video Games, then the call is there. The true question is if we're willing to answer it. I can't tell you guys how many times I'm going to say this, but without a doubt I'll be coming back to Ecuador. It now holds a very special place in my heart, and it wouldn't be fair on either end (mine nor the people that I've come to know here) if I didn't. The mission has helped open my eyes to things that I couldn't even imagine or fathom before. I love you guys, and I can't thank you enough for making it possible for me to be here, and to learn the things that I have. Until next week, keep praying often, and remember how much God loves you. Take care!!!


Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke


PS: Perhaps, we could take a family vacation down here, some day, hahahaha! Iattached a picture of Yapingacho, Elder Melzer (my comp), and Elder Mena (my awesome buddy. We're eating at Chili's in the picture, by the way).

Week 85

Hi, Mom. So, I've been doing a lot of studying, especially taking into consideration both what you and Dad say about "an eye single to the glory of God", and the past two Zones Conferences that we had that teach us about how exactly we can magnify and sanctify our callings, in order for people to "more easily" recognize us as representatives of the Lord Jesus Christ. I'm not going to lie, I can't say that I've been doing absolutely all that I can to maintain an eye single to the glory of God, and qualify myself for the Work. So, I was studying Doctrine & Covenants 18 (this morning), and the verse that stood out to me was verse 44. Surprisingly, the first person that I thought of when I came across verse 44 was Leilani. I hate to sound obligatory, but there are no words that can describe how miraculous the mission is, and how it can put such emphasis in how we are "instruments in the hands of God" for the Work and the Salvation of those around us. Before my mission, I was too admittedly timid to even speak to my church leaders of my own home ward. Now, I can speak to complete strangers (I don't mean that to sound as rude as it may). I can let them know how special this restored Gospel is to me, and I can let them know that I can't imagine how my life would be without it. I love this Church, and more importantly, I love all that it's done to help me. For that reason, it's going to break my heart to leave Ecuador in September. I love the culture, I love the people, I love the food, and like I said, even though it's not as "organized" as the United States, I've come to love being here like it were my second home. Without a doubt I have plans to come back, visit my converts, visit the other people that I've had the blessing of teaching and learning alongside here, and simply because I just can't say how much I love Ecuador.


So, I have the blessing of working with Hermana Wilson in this glorious zone of Orquideas, and after some small talk, I learned that she's the cousin of The Kellen Moore, ex-quarterback (and what some may call a legend) of the Boise State Broncos. She's super nice, super cool, and everybody thinks that she's going to climb up to Sister Assistant in no time. It was also super cool, because her companion, Hermana Quispe (prounounced Keespay) asked Elder Williams and I to give her a Health Blessing. I got the prompting that I should seal the blessing, so I told Elder Williams, and it was no doubt one of the most inspired blessings that I have ever had the privilege of giving here on the mission. They're a great pair of sister missionaries, and I look (and find, of course) the blessings of working here in my sector of Vergeles with Elder Melzer, and in my zone of Orquideas each and every day. It hasn't been the easiest, necessarily, but that hasn't stopped the four of us (or in the zone's case, the eighteen of us) from giving it our all. Last week was a little slow, because we were visited by a group of BYU Medical Students for a Health Seminar Activity for the Stake, we had a Zones Conference, and we were told last-minute that we have to rehearse in order to sing for a Missionary Fireside next Sunday. It's been a bit stressful for all of us, but this week seems like it will be less hectic. Sorry for forgetting my Camera Cable, but I have been taking lots of cool pictures of my companions, "tricimotos", super delicious food, and a lot of other crazy awesome stuff. I'll be sure to send them to you guys next week, but for now, thank you guys for all of the love and support, and especially for the prayers. I love you guys, I miss you guys, and until next week, take care!!!


Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke


PS: I hate to sound SUPER obligatory, but I feel like Leilani's "scripture" will be D&C 18:44.

Week 84

Hi, Mom.

So, I obviously don't have too much to say, especially because we literally Skype called yesterday, hahaha! Still, it was extremely awesome to be able to video call you guys yesterday, perhaps because it's the last time that I'll get to BEFORE I COME HOME! WHOA!!! It's also super nice to know that Mom's more "trunky" (thinking about me coming back home) more than I am, hahahaha! Counting down the days, planning what I'm going to do, and even asking me to buy some jerseys or at least some kinds of souvenirs for me and the family, haha! But yeah, I want to work, I want to study, but what's not a surprise at all is how badly I want to come back to Ecuador. I love the people, I love the culture, and even though it's not the most orderly like the US, it's still a really cool country. I've learned a ton, I've grown a ton, thanks to serving here, and I really can't wait to come back. I still don't have too much to announce about my new sector, except the baptism that we had last Saturday. It was a really great baptism, despite some hiccups that we had to resolve last-minute, but it was still really awesome. I'll be sure to post some pictures of my new sector, my crazy companions, and the crazy things we do as four Gringos in the middle of Ecuador. I love you guys a lot, and until next week, thanks for all of the prayers and support from everyone! It means a LOT. Take care!!!


Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

Week 83

Hi, Mom!


So, like my title states, I "coincidentally" got transferred last Wednesday TO GUAYAQUIL! But, I'm in the other zone, Zona Orquideas. My new companion is Elder Melzer from Arizona. This is one of my favorite zones to be in so far in my mission, if I do say so. Even though I've only been here 5 days, I still feel more than grateful simply to be here - with my companion, with the other two missionaries in our sector (Elder Williams and Elder Mena), and with this awesome zone. I'm feeling a MILLION times better than I was in Balzar, despite the bittersweet taste of leaving a sector that quickly became my home. However, all I can do now is look back on it, learn from it, and only think about how I can do better. But for now, I can tell you guys just how grateful and how happy I am to be in such an amazing zone, full of amazing missionaries. I don't have too much to say yet, simply because again, I only have 5 whole days in this sector. But, what I can let you guys know is that we have a LOT of great baptisms lined up, we have a lot of rescues lined up as well, so hopefully my companion and I can continue to have the awesome success that comes from the magic we both know we can make happen here. I'll be sure to take TONS of pictures, I'm SUPER excited to Skype Call this Mother's Day, but more than anything, I'm fired up to be here, because this change (whether it was planned or not) was precisely what I needed to kick-start me into overdrive! I love you guys so much, and until next week, keep praying often, stay strong, stay true, and remember... JESUS LOVES YOU!!! ... And I love you too, hahahahaha! Bye!


Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke


PS: We got a couple of plans to have some fun later (eat at the Chili's they got here with one of my awesome friends Elder Moreno who goes home next week, and maybe ride some bikes in the famous Parque Samanes), which is why I'm writing a little early this week

Week 82

Hi, Mom.


I'm not quite sure how to word this, so I'm simply going to say that this has felt like one of the hardest weeks so far that I've had in the mission. Perhaps it's because of my companion, perhaps it's because of the self-changes I've been making to be more obedient, and in-lineage with the will of God, and not my own, as my companion states. I can't lie to you guys and say that I've been 100% obedient on my mission, but I obviously haven't been doing anything ridiculous, either. I just feel like I'm losing my sense of being/character from how much "exact obedience" my companion is putting me through. I get that he's trying to pull out all the stops, in order for this branch to start progressing, and get to where it needed to be heck knows how long ago. However, I wish he could do it in a manner less... Hurtful towards me, and more charitable. He slams on my companions for being with me, and I can't help but think if I'm even supposed to be in the mission, anymore (let alone, with him). My sleep patterns are starting to tilt, and I'm pretty sure I've been gaining weight from all of the rice that the members give us to eat. I extremely hate to sound sacreligious and like a hypocrite, but I can't help but feel... Forsaken. Obviously, I'm seeing some of the fruits of being so "obedient", such as the 115 attendance we had in Church last Sunday. The members say that there hasn't been an attendance that high in 10 YEARS. But, if the price is feeling as miserable, and sick, and forsaken as I do in order to bring these people the salvation that they've lacked for a long time, then I really don't know if that's the price that I'm willing to pay. Despite the faith that I have in my heart that Elder Palma and I can work miracles as a companionship here in Balzar, I don't know how much longer I can take being here, with all the changes that have been going on, before my brain cracks like an egg. I'm extremely sorry for sounding like all I'm doing for this week's blog entry is complaining about my companion, but it's when this starts to take a toll on my physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health that I ought to speak up. I love you guys a lot, I've been missing you now more than ever, and (I'm admitting to you now) it wouldn't surprise me if for the first time out of four, I cry during our last Skype Call this upcoming Mother's Day. Until next week, I want to thank everyone for the prayers, love, and support, because I don't believe I would've made it this far if it weren't for everyone. Take care!!!


Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane Parke

Week 81

Hi, Mom. So, before I talk about anything else, I just want everyone to know that's reading the blog that I'm perfectly fine, my companion's fine, we're all fine here in Balzar. According to the satellites and other technology they use to measure and pinpoint the earthquakes, the epicenter was more or less an hour north of a city near the coast called Portoviejo. They say it was 7.8 magnitude, and 400+ people lost their lives from it. The best way the four of us here have to summarize it when it "hit us" was: "We're just lucky to be alive", hahaha. It's funny, because my companion, Elder Palma, is from Chile, so he just cracks jokes about how earthquakes and tremors like that happen every week or so back at his home in Concepción, hahahahaha. But yeah, none of us are hurt, we're all perfectly fine... I mean, I'm still a bit shaken up, because I've only felt two tremors in my life (both here on my mission in Ecuador), but that's nothing to stop me and my companion from working our hardest.


So, I've been doing a ton of thinking about my companionship, and not only in the context of "Why me?" But rather, I've been trying to look at it each and every angle, and see how I can bless my companion (and vice versa) with what little time I feel we have left as companions. What I can see from right off the bat is we are both EXTREMELY different. For whatsoever reason, we click on some subjects, but even so, we're basically Black and White. However, I haven't lost the hope and love that I've had in each and every one of my companions yet, and I'm not willing to start now. Elder Palma may be a little on the crazy side (to me, at least), but also from what I can see between the two of us, we have a very prominent "burning" desire within both of us to bless the lives of those we come across in our missions. We both want to be remembered, we both wish to make the most out of our time here, and more than anything, we both can't thank our Lord Jesus Christ enough for how He has helped us turn our lives around while we still could. So Elder Palma may not be my "perfect companion", but he can be a LOT worse, is what I'm basically trying to get at, hahahahahaha!


I love you guys a lot, and there hasn't been a single day since I left that I haven't been thinking about you guys. It's been a harder climb for me than Camel's Back and Table Rock put together, to put it in Idaho terms, haha. It hasn't been in the very least easy for me to be away from home for the longest time in my LIFE, but I wouldn't trade the things I've learned and the spiritual growth that I've made for absolutely anything in the world. Like I've said how many times now, I have no doubts that it will only get harder from this point on, but at the same time, like you guys have been telling me, never in my life will I most likely feel as close to my Father in Heaven and my Savior Jesus Christ than while I'm here on my mission. Until next week, let everyone know that I'm okay, I love them, and I apologize in advance for the lack of pictures. I've been taking a lot more, but I keep forgetting my Camera Cord in the apartment. Next week, for sure, I'll send more pictures. I PROMISE, haha!


Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

Week 80

Hi, Mom.

So, in order to get this out the way, I want to just say that Elder Palma is, indeed, INSANE. I have had very obedient companions before, but I've got to say, Elder Palma takes the cake, by far. I've personally never seen a missionary so dead-set on obeying the rules and regulations to a T, as he is. In fact, it's honestly scary, for me especially as his companion, as to just how strict and serious he is about pretty much everything. He was super calm his first week here with me in Balzar, but then like a coin, his personality just flips, and he cracks down HARD. I've tried talking to him, and letting him know that he's barely got two weeks here, and doesn't quite know what he's doing or saying, but I think his pride gets in the way of him seeing that. He's very stubborn, he's very impatient (including with himself, which also scares me), and as a result, I really can't see us being a companionship for much more time. It may sound a little irrational, but I kind of have nightmares of no one wanting to come to Church, just because of how direct he can be. I apologize greatly, if I sound like I'm simply judging and complaining, but I find myself to have all the right to draw these kinds of conclusions.


So, I wrote in my weekly letter to President Riggins how I've been considering what it would be like to finish my mission here in Balzar. I really love this place, and even though it's obviously not perfect, I can't find any other missionary (other than my ex-companion Elder Reilly) understanding this place and its members as well as I do. It's funny, because for that reason, President Riggins doesn't like to keep missionaries in the same sector for more than 5 months. However, I only have 3 months here, and I'll admit that I've already fallen in love with working in this place. What I've found to keep me from having "100%" of the success that I can here is my taking the initiatives, as Elder Palma has admittedly helped me see. I can't lie to you guys, I hate contacting (for my still-existent fear of public speaking, as well as rejection), and despite having a year and a half in the mission, I still find my Spanish, in polite terms, low-par. I do agree, however, with Elder Palma's constructive criticism to take the initiative more often. Him, like the rest of my companions, are absolutely right; if I truly love the people as I say I do, then the only thing that's stopping me from expressing that is myself.


It's starting to open up my eyes as to how much time I have left as a missionary here in Ecuador. I may not have had absolutely, without a doubt in my mind, 100% of the success that I probably could've had in my mission, but I do know both in my heart and in my soul/spirit that I did some good in the world. I may not have baptized as many people as I would've liked to, but as my good buddy Elder Reilly states: "Most of the time, we're just planting seeds." It does bug me that other missionaries have baptized and rescued more than I have, but the Holy Ghost assures me that so long as I can fearlessly kneel down at night and let my Father in Heaven know that I'm doing my best, then I am, and I have nothing to worry about. It's a bittersweet feeling to be slowly but surely coming to the end of my mission, but I couldn't be more grateful for the things that it's taught me. I love you guys so much, and I can't wait for our Mother's Day Skype Call. Until next week, take care!!!


Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

Week 79

Hi, Mom. So, this past week was General Conference (obviously). It personally helped me a lot, especially with how stressful it's been. A month until my last Skype Call in the mission, and only five more months until I bid farewell to Ecuador. One of my personal favorite talks was of Elder Quentin L. Cook, and how he utilized a "Temple Mirror", and the Twin Mirrors in the Sealing Room of the Temple with such symbolism and emphasis as to what they mean. It helped me learn that as long as we "keep our eyes on the prize", then we need not worry about the troubles and temptations of the world. I've been doing a little studying of my Patriarchal Blessing as to help me clear my mind, and aid me in losing myself in the Work for what little time I have left here. Part of my blessing that stand our most to me is how it invites me to be sealed to my future wife and children. One of my biggest hopes and dreams ever since I can remember is to be the "World's Greatest Father." Where my life was going, that dream felt anything but close. However, thanks to my mission, and all of the spiritual growth and strength that it's given me, I have faith that the Lord can help me make that dream come true.


I've been thinking a lot about Easter, and just what exactly does it mean. Far too many people, I've noticed, take the meaning of Easter for granted. Not enough people know the significance that the Atonement has in each of our lives. Others take advantage of it, and expect it to magically take away their problems for them. However, when one can truly look at how he (or she) can properly apply and appreciate the Atonement and what it can potentially do for their lives, it helps answer the question as to which of the thousands of churches upon the face of the Earth is literally the Church of Jesus Christ. I can't lie to you guys, I saw myself as a complete and utter failure before my mission. I had no idea what I was getting into, and I had no idea where it was that I was planning on taking myself. As President Thomas S. Monson stated: "If you don't know where it is that you wish to go, that it need not matter which path you take... No?"


I love you guys a lot, and there aren't words that I can find that describe how much I miss you guys. It's been one of the hardest fights that I've had to put up with. I already know what I'll say when President Riggins asks me in my final interview if I believed that I gave it my all or not. I may not have had 100% of the success I could've had in my mission (at least, not in my eyes), but I do have the faith that I gave it my all, and I let a lot of people know just how much I love my Lord, how much I love my God, and how much I love my brothers and sisters. I never realized just how crucial this Gospel is for my life, and if they can learn to see its importance, too, for their lives, as well. Until next week, I love you guys. Take care! Thank you all so much for the prayers, love, and support!


Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke


PS: Let Oliver know (even though I haven't met him, haha) how much I love him, too!

Week 78

Hi, Mom (and Family and Friends and all of my loved ones)!


So, like we pretty much saw coming from a mile away, Elder Reilly got transferred (after nearly 7 whole months of service here in Balzar alone, haha), and my new companion is Elder Palma from Chile. I'm honestly terrified of what's going to happen between this companionship, because Elder Palma is known for having not the best of reputations in the mission. He's mainly known for being power-hungry, and overall INSANE. I just gotta pray, stay strong, stay true, and no matter what happens, remember just how much God loves me, and wishes for me to grow spiritually. In fact, most of my companions find themselves surprised about the love and desire that I have to serve them, in addition to the people in my sectors. Since I began my mission, I have always had our Mission Objective playing like a loop in my head: "Invite others to come unto Christ by helping them receive the restored Gospel thru Faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement, Repentance, Baptism, Receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost, and Enduring to the End." The part that strikes me most is that we, as missionaries, invite OTHERS. It doesn't say Investigators, and it doesn't say Less Active Members, but it does say OTHERS (in general).


 Everybody makes mistakes, but it's when we dwell on them and not use them to help us to get better when we find ourselves like a truck in the mud, as opposed to spiritually progressing as God intends. One of the most useful tools that I have found to help me cope with the stress of the mission, is applying the Atonement of Jesus Christ as much as I personally can. I can see how easy it is for others to take this sacrifice for granted, and think things such as: "Well, Jesus already bled and died for my sins. I simply have to have a firm belief in that, and I'm saved." However, it's so much more than that. I learned for myself that we have to earn such a blessing, and that the main reason that I found it so hard to do so before is because deep down, I felt that it wasn't fair. I saw it unjust that "for me, a sinner, He suffered, He bled, and died." I indirectly took pride in the idea that I couldn't let Him take my place for the sins, mistakes, wrongdoings, shortcomings, and limitations that I myself have. They're my mistakes, and in my thick head, only found it just if I myself paid the price for them. I want to thank Elder Reilly and especially President Riggins for helping me see this.


I absolute love just how much God respects our Agency, and how much He wants us to learn, and become like Him. One of the Scriptures that have been helping me out like crazy this past month (maybe more, not sure, haha) is 2 Nephi 2. It's helped me out a lot, and I like to use it hand-in-hand with Alma 42 in order to help explain why exactly are we here. Why exactly do the things happen in our lives that we can't control. For that reason, I understand that my fellow companions are not perfect, I hope they understand that I'm definitely not perfect, but if we can just put those differences and comparisons aside, we can start to realize just how much love we have for one another, and just how much we need each other's help. From how I see it (despite this being the first day that Elder Palma and I are companions) is that more than anything, we've been put together as companions to help each other learn, to help each other grow, and for me, in my personal opinion, to help check himself before he wrecks himself. He'll come to know for himself that I'm super linient, I can be super chill, but more than anything, that I love my companions and fellow missionaries for simply being out here, and doing the work of the Lord. It's been awesome to have Elder Reilly as my companion, but now is time to open a whole other chapter. Until next week, I love you guys so much, I'm extremely excited for General Conference, for Mother's Day, and for what I see as the "Climax", or "Home Stretch" of my mission. Thanks so much for all of the prayers and support, because they've helped me more than you guys can ever

imagine. Take care, and remember, Jesus Loves You!

Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

Week 77

Hi, Mom. So, to be a little straight forward, Elder Reilly and I are highly certain that he (at the very least) will be getting transferred this next week. We've also been hearing some rumors/hints from some of the other missionaries about how it might be like if there were only 2 missionaries here in Balzar as opposed to 4 like now. I personally find it quite interesting to say the least, because Elder Reilly and I have made quite an amount of magic here, and we believe that it can only get better if the branch continues to play their cards right. We do have some plans to start up some more training for the leadership here, because a lot of them know what it is they need to do... It only comes down to a matter of how they do it, which is where they become a little unsure. Granted, it has taken quite the stress toll on my companion and I for taking all of these initiatives to fortify the branch, but at the same time, we feel in our hearts that what we're doing is for the good of the branch both now as well as in the future. I myself have grown really close to this branch and its members, especially from all of the sacrifices that have been made on our parts and also theirs.


It just blows my mind to comprehend that I've already got 18 months in the mission. It at the same time scares me, because that means that my days are slowly but surely becoming numbered here in Ecuador. It isn't the most mind-blowing place to serve (it does make me facepalm from the things they do and say, though, at times, but I digress), but I can't help but simply be grateful for the person that the mission has helped me grow to now be. There have been nights were I looked back on the person that I once was, and I cried. I was prideful, I was angry, but more than anything I was unhappy. On the inside, I couldn't help but feel miserable. It wasn't until I submitted to the will of God and His Son Jesus Christ that I soon began to find my self-worth, and more importantly the worth, trust, and love that my Father in Heaven had for me. I still may not be perfect, but I at least do what I can to help me and those around me get closer and closer to that long-term goal. A couple scriptures that we've begun to use a lot more often in our teachings are Alma 5:33-34, and D&C 89:3. Our Lord loves each and every one of us to always and forever have His arms stretched forth, even unto the most spiritually weak of Saints. If we love Him, follow Him, and let Him in to help us change for the better, He'll open our eyes to just how much He loves us, and how many blessings He has for us.


I just want to conclude by testifying that the Lord truly prepares the way for those whom are or will be ready to recieve us, accept us into their homes and lives, and have come to know just how "curious" they are about the relationship they have been God, His Son, and each of them. We came across one of our investigators, Miguel, when he suddenly showed up to Church 3 weeks ago with his wife, who's a member. They've been together for 8 years, got married 2 months ago, and they just moved back here from Guayaquil. Miguel attended before in Guayaquil, but received us the Tuesday after they came to Church. He's a dentist, he's a really great guy, and Elder Reilly and I have faith that he'll do great things after his baptism this coming Saturday. On a different note, a member family here, the Batioja's, invited some family to Church this Sunday (Sister Batioja's sister Ruth and her husband Eric). It just so happened that Ruth was President of the Relief Society in the ward Las Americas before moving to Ward Sauces while I had been serving down in Guayaquil. I know in my heart that the Lord has divinely prepared my mission for me, and given me clues to help me know that He's been watching. I love you guys a lot, I miss you guys a lot, but I know that my being here has been without a doubt one of the greatest blessings that I have ever been given by my Heavenly Father. I want to thank everyone for all the prayers, love, and support, because

they've helped me more than ever while serving here. Until next week, keep on looking for the hand of the Lord each day, wherever it may be. Take care!!!

Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

Week 76

Hi, Mom. First of all, I just want to give a huge thanks to everyone who wished me a happy 21st birthday on Facebook. It was honestly one of the hardest birthdays to celebrate while being away from home and my family. It started with having to spend the entire morning helping our branch president and his secretary complete the history of the branch (callings that were sustained, money withdrawn, baptisms, etc., all from this past year of 2015), because they had a leadership meeting to go to. I won't forget to mention that the other two branch presidents of branches Vinces 1 and Vinces 2 were there, in addition to the District Presidency. Obviously, we didn't go, but it was still a nice and tedious act of service to help with this. So, because of a lack of communication, the branch president didn't end up coming back to retrieve the hard copy of the Branch History until 2:30 in the afternoon. On top of that, just about all of our appointments fell through. I have to admit, though, that if it weren't for the surprise birthday party that my companion managed to pull off planning and executing at 8 o'clock really made my day. 

For all of my Christian friends out there, one of the Scripture passages that have rang true for me personally up to this point of 18 months in my mission is Matthew 10:22. "And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved." We get doors slammed in our faces, we get cussed at, spit upon, trash thrown at us, harshly and unnecessarily rejected, and even flat out ignored and hung out to dry - by active members, less active members, and non-Mormons alike. For two years, as the Apostle Jeffrey R. Holland puts it, "[we get to be] standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the best life that this world has ever known. The only pure and perfect missionary who ever lived." It's not our job to knock on someone's door or enter a neighboring congregation, Bible and other Scriptures at the ready, and say: "Your Church is all wrong, and this is why!" We aren't sacreligious, we don't hate other Churches, and we are definitely not looking to "Bible Bash" with a couple of Jehovah's Witnesses or Evangelical Pastors in the middle of the street. We are Mormon Missionaries, hoping to share with all that we come across the message of the Restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, as well as the other messages that we have. It's a little hard for some to grasp, I've learned, but I'm going to continue to do my best to let everyone know of this one-of-a-kind, remarkable, life-changing message for all to hear.

We've been finding a number of clues for the past couple of months that Elder Reilly and I have been companions, and finally came to the conclusion recently that our apartment had a mouse in it. So, we decided to have our own Mouse Expedition Hunt effective last week. We bought some Mouse Killer Food in the grocery store, and confirmed our suspicions. This morning, while we were talking, we saw something little and black jet from one side of our room to the other out of the corner of our eyes. We dug around a little bit, found the little guy, and caged him. However, little varmint managed to escape, but we re-found him, and beat him with a wooden dowel and a crutch, hahahaha! As we tried to straighten up and clean our room, lo and behold, we found ANOTHER mouse. Luckily, Elder Reilly and his ninja bo-staff skills managed to smack him into next week. Not exactly how I had spending my first 21-year-old P-Day in mind, but I guess it works, haha! We told President Riggins afterwards through a text, and he simply replied to us, "Well done. Two in one day is quite impressive." Afterwards, we looked at each other, and said with a sigh, "We gotta find a new apartment."

I love you guys so much, thanks again for all of the love, support, prayers, and especially the birthday wishes! I miss you guys a ton, but I'm also so grateful for all of the things that the Mission has taught me, and helped me grow closer and closer to my Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. Until next week, take care!!!

Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

PS: I'd KILL to get simply a ton of candy in the Easter Package that you guys have plans to send. I love you guys, thanks!!!

PSS: I included the photos of the mice we had as unexpected house-guests.

Week 75

Hi, Mom. So, I want to start with the reason that it seems like I extremely rushed my e-mail from last week was because I did. I neglected to wish Auston a happy 14th birthday, and I also forgot to mention how CRAZY last week was here. Anyway, the main reason why we were late was because the Branch President asked if we can come in that morning to help him with some computer stuff. What we ended up finding was OUR CHAPEL WAS FLOODED. Apparently, someone got into our chapel's kitchen, turned the sink on, and plugged the drain. Because our chapel's a pretty small building (it's got like 6 classrooms, a clerk office, the Branch President's office, and the kitchen doubles as the Relief Society room). So, we had to mop up all of the water, and we had to go back home and clean ourselves up. Luckily, we had two awesome baptisms that past Saturday (their names are Alfredo and Angela Macias), whom Elder Reilly had been teaching for the past 5 months! It's was absolutely worth it, though, because they both have such strong testimonies in the Church and its teachings. They had to give up alcohol, coffee, and even get married in order to make their first official covenants with God, and to enjoy the many blessings to come in their amazing lives and family.

So, it's crazy to believe that this Saturday I turn 21 years old. It's been such a climb to get here, but I couldn't be happier, especially with all the help the mission has given me to reflect on my life, to help me grow more spiritually in addition to physically, and especially to help me realize how I can bless my life by helping others. It's been far from easy, but I'm more grateful than anything about how strong a testimony I now have in the Savior, His teachings, and His Atonement. I'll obviously never be able to sufficiently re-pay my Savior for the sacrifice that He made for me personally, but that won't stop me from doing anything and everything I can so those around me (especially right now while I'm here in Ecuador) can also feel the Savior's love and apply such an unforgettable gift more in their lives. Some people, I'll admit, have found the gift of Repentance & Forgiveness a bit too simple for their taste here, but it's surprisingly true, now that you think about it. If the Savior loves you as much as you think He does, don't you think He'd make it as possible as He can for you to apply that love in your life? ("In all that you do and say", as the Christian, Evangelic, and of course Mormon Church all appear to have as such a root to their doctrine and teachings.) Too many people, in my opinion, underestimate this blessing, while others find it too easy and plain to grasp its necessity. Though God is just, and will help us know just how wrong we are sometimes, that doesn't mean at all that He doesn't wish for each and every one of us, as His children, to return to live with Him. I'm so grateful to be given a "Second Chance", so to speak, thanks to Jesus Christ. I'm also super grateful to my parents, for helping me learn how to love this gift. I love you guys so much, and until next week, never forget just how much our Savior's love is around us, and carries us. Take care!!!

Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

PS: Also, my favorite thing in the package was BY FAR these amazing shoes!!! Thank you SO much for them! I love you guys! Tell Oliver I love him, too!!!

Week 74

Hi, Mom. This week was a lot better for me, personally. I've been doing a lot better at losing myself in the work, and not focusing on my limitations. My companion and I have been trying a lot to have me talk more and "loosen my tongue and delcare glad tidings unto this generation." A comment that our Recent Convert, Alfredo, recently told us really struck me. He asked if I could offer the opening prayer before our lesson, and his reason for asking me to do it was that, "the quietest people are the most understanding and intelligent." It meant a lot coming from him, because he was known for making a lot of comments about Elder Chunga, Elder Reilly's companion before me. Elder Reilly and I believe that he could make a great leader in the Church, because he's already got a lot of knowledge, in addition to a great desire and capacity to learn more about the Church and its teachings. With his experiences as an ex-alcoholic, and how crazy of a ride it's been up until his and his wife's baptisms, we have a lot of faith that he can bless the lives of a lot of people, including his family. I will admit that it hasn't been the easiest mission, but I've learned a lot, and know that I could only get better. God gives us trials in our lives, because as His children, He knows us, He loves us, and He understands us. Because of this, He knows exactly where our limitations are. Each day, He utilizes these trials to help us get stronger both physically and spiritually. I can't wait to take advantage of the knowledge, wisdom, and especially the spiritual experiences that He has blessed me with here in the mission to bless the lives of those around me for years to come after I bid farewell to Ecuador. I love you guys a ton, and I'm so grateful for your love and support to help me each day. Take care!!!

Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

PS: I did get your package

Week 73

Hi Mom

 Balzar's very known in this mission to be one of the hardest branches/wards to help get together, so perhaps that's why they put me and my buddy Elder Reilly here together, to see if we can work some magic here. So far, it's been working for the most part. The Branch President's got a lot of trust in us for all of the work we've put into helping him and the rest of the presidency.

So, yesterday was one of the most "unique" Sundays that I believe that I have had here in Balzar - if not, my mission. In the morning, after Sacrament Meeting, the little 8-year-old girl of our branch's first counselor fell after running around outside. She went to her dad, and then (out of NOWHERE) goes to me, begs me for some of the candy she knew I bring on Sundays to Church, and then begged me to pick her up. Super adorable kid, but it was totally out of nowhere that she went to me, haha. Later that evening, we had Branch Council. Our Relief Society President, for whatsoever reason, brought her nutcase daughter with her (who, by the way, went BALLISTIC the week before about not being able to use the Church's wi-fi to Skype Call her relatives in Spain. She's NUTS). Anyway, when we tried to schedule visits with her, she got all ticked at us. Whatever, we got too many women members here already, Elder Reilly and I say to each other, haha! She doesn't want to have as much success in her organization and calling, then she can't say later that we didn't try to help her do so. Oh well, just she'll just have to wait and see until Elder Reilly and I already get transferred away.

I've been including a lot in my prayers lately if God can help me find opportunities here in Balzar to loosen my tongue, and to touch the hearts of the people here, so that they can recognize us a little more easily as the servants of God that we both know that we've been called to be. Like the other missionaries have told us, it hasn't been the easiest place to work, but that hasn't stopped my companion and I to take a few initiatives, and show the members of this branch just how much we mean business. On my mission, I've learned more than anything about patience, perseverance, and the hope that there are blessings in store for those who sacrifice. I'm really grateful that we got to see this amazing couple get married (who Elder Reilly has been teaching since he got here 5 months ago, haha), and if nothing crazy happens, they'll be getting baptized this coming Saturday! We admittedly haven't been having the best of luck with contacting and finding new people to teach, but each day is a new day, filled to the brim with possibilities. I've been more than grateful for the love and support from everyone, and for the prayers. I'll be sure to send more pictures super soon, but it just slipped my mind to bring my camera cable again, haha! Sorry guys, but I'll promise to make it up to you. Until next week, just remember that Jesus WILL give blessings in due time (Moroni 7:33). I love you guys, take care!!!

Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

PS: I won't call "Arrow" Oliver, simply because I have a Recent Convert here in Balzar named Oliver, hahahahaha! Also, I'll leave the girls to call him Olly. Regardless, let that cute little guy know how excited I am to see him welcome me home in less than 7 months!!!

Week 72

I can't tell you how relieved I'm going to be to be coming home not too long from now, take an extremely long rest, and probably play with my dogs Clark and Oliver (I'll probably call him "Arrow", though, just because Green Arrow is awesome), and make restitution with everyone and everything that I should. I'd love to get my old job back, I'd love to continue on the Medicine Career Path in my education, and I'm not too worried about how beautiful and amazing my future family is going to be. I shouldn't probably get my head too wound up around these things, so I don't get too trunky. Especially because I still got a good 7 months to make the absolute most of the blessing I have of being here in Ecuador. The fact that I don't have too much time left here isn't going to affect the sincere desires in my heart to do what's right, and to "loosen my tongue, and declare glad tidings unto this generation." It's been such a humbling experience to be here, and I'll be sure to apply what I've learned and felt here in my life. I'm so very grateful for the prayers that have been said in my name, because it's made it a whole lot easier to continue to serve my Father in Heaven as diligently and faithfully as I ought to. I love you guys so much, and thank you so much for all of the love and support. Keep praying often, and just remember how much Jesus loves you!!! Take care!!!

Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

Week 71

Dear Mom,

First of all, thank you for telling me about Chloe. I can't lie to you and say that I didn't cry the minute I saw the pictures. It honestly makes me both sad and mad that I can't be there right now with the rest of you guys, but I know in my heart that it's the right thing for me to do, to be here serving the Lord. I hope the packages that you guys are sending me aren't getting "hopelessly lost in the mail", as the rest of the missionaries say about theirs. My companion and I have been finding and downloading a lot of Church Videos, in order to help the flow of the branch more. I even explained to President Riggins that we're not focusing nearly as much as we ought to be on finding and baptizing as we are on re-structuring the branch, and rescuing less active members. A set of the videos that we found to be useful both for us and for others in the future is the 12 Steps to Change. Obviously, the primary function of this list of videos is to help people recover from addictions, but another look at it helped the two of us see that it's just the Repentance Process, only extremely more... Potent. Obviously, something that I've been doing a lot of overlooking lately is how often we (even though we're missionaries) need to repent. Despite the fact that at this time, we're representatives of Jesus Christ, we're still humans. We still make mistakes, and I personally have found that this time that we have as the representatives of His Church makes it surprisingly easier to ask for His forgiveness.

Something that's peeved me since the beginning of my mission is probably something that has peeved a lot of other missionaries, I would think. What I'm talking about is how life doesn't slow down or stop while we're out here in the mission field. In the back of my head, I tended to think that not too much was going to happen while I was gone, and that I would end up coming back home after 2 years to find everything pretty much the same. After I heard about all of the changes that have happened (both good and bad), it threw me for quite the loop. However, it helped me learn that changes will occur in your life (regardless of your say-so), and you will have little to no control over them. That's just life. To say that I haven't thought before that some of these changes aren't fair would make me a liar. However, it also makes me soon realize that I am questioning my own free agency, and I am also questioning the will of God. Even though some of these changes appear to be irrational and unnecessary, there's no reason to believe that God has abandoned us because of them. Think about it. Though Jesus Christ was "perfect", he too questioned the will of His father, by asking, "My god, why hast thou forsaken me?" Being a missionary gives us time to carefully analyze what we teach, in addition to how we teach it. President Riggins showed me the comparison between Matthew 5, and the Book of Mormon equivalent in 3 Nephi. As he speaks to the Jews (as well as the other followers and listeners), he invites them to "be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father, which is in Heaven, is perfect." Yet, in 3 Nephi, he invites those here in the Americas in the same manner... But in this passage, He includes HIMSELF. The reason I learned why Jesus doesn't include himself before is because He was HUMAN. Though He be the Son of God, and came to atone and die for all our sins, He still CONDESCENDED, and both lived and died as a HUMAN. WE'RE NOT PERFECT. I beat myself up to this day for the fact that I'm not perfect. But, I learned that if I'm not going to be happy until I'm "perfect", then that's quite the lifelong goal. Things happen in our lives, many things. But if we open up our eyes to just how much God loves us, and how much Jesus Christ loves us, then the Atonement and Everlasting Gospel can carry us through even the most difficult of trials. I love you guys so much, and though it's been hard, thank you for all of the love and support that I've been able to receive through your guys' prayers. Until next week, just remember: JESUS LOVES YOU!

Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

Week 70

Hi, Mom. Last week was by far the most monstrous week that I personally have ever had to face in the mission field as of now. Monday and Tuesday we had Food Poisoning, Wednesday nearly all of our appointments just threw themselves out the window, Thursday we had to travel to Babahoyo for training, and we had to spend the night in VInces, so didn't get home until Friday morning. The rest of Friday was just like Wednesday, and we had to do a truckload of "weekly planning" on Saturday. Sunday was as slow as usual here, because we don't get to proselyte until after 6 in the afternoon. So, sorry that I'm writing a day late again. Yesterday, we went to Guayaquil for P-Day, and so I can talk to President Riggins about how I personally can spiritually progress more effectively and efficiently in my mission. He didn't schedule it; I actually did when we were in Babahoyo for a Zones Conference last week. I really wanted to talk to him especially about some things in my past that were keeping me from progressing now. President helped me see in our interview that I'm not perfect, I'm nowhere near perfect, and that I'll most likely never be the very definition of perfect (in this lifetime, anyway). He let me know that I've got to stop throwing myself under the bus for the fact that I'm not the perfect missionary, and there will be times where I can't save everyone I'd like to.

Being away from home for as long as I have (especially in such a unique place as Ecuador) has really thrown me for quite the loop before hurling me right into the real world. I miss you guys a ton, and I can't wait to show you guys when I come home in a few months just how much I've changed, how much I've spiritually grown, and how much I've learned. Until next week, I can't thank the both of you, as well as everyone else enough for the love and support that I've been given in order to be here and serve the Lord. Thank you so much for your prayers, and for going through the trials and tribulations along with me. I love you guys so much, but I can't re-pay you guys for the amount of love you've given me. Take care, and be strong for both of us.

Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane Parke

PS Tell Clark that I love that cute little chubby dog. Also, please let me know if Chloe's passed on yet.

Week 69

Hi, Mom. So, first of all, I'm sorry that I'm writing you guys a day late, but I'm just going to be direct and say that both my companion and I were stuck in bed ALL DAY yesterday with Food Poisoning. We suspect that it was this pizza that we bought to celebrate the 3 baptisms that we had last Saturday night, because the following Sunday, we were not feeling so well after we got out of Church. Before we knew it, we had to go home and stop proselyting early at 7 at night (as opposed to our usual 9 or 9:30). We were both taking turns waking up every hour that following night to use the bathroom, and we couldn't even leave our house at all yesterday. It BY FAR took the cake for the worst P-Day that both of us have ever had (so far, anyway) in our missions. Don't worry, we're feeling a lot better today, and we should be able to leave after lunch at 1 to proselyte and preach the Gospel. So, while stricken with Food Poisoning, it gave me some time to think about some of the smaller details (and by smaller details, I mean the trunky details, hahaha). Someone once said, "You never know how much you love something or someone until they're gone (literally or figuratively)." It hasn't been easy to be away from home for 16 months now, especially because it's been the longest that I've ever been away from my home and my family. It's almost scared me to both see and hear how much things have changed while I've been gone, but it always makes me glad to hear that a lot of it has been for the better. I can't lie when I say that I might cry when I come off the plane in September and see my family again after 2 whole years. Being down here has been beyond a humbling experience, and there's no doubt that I'm going to be able to apply the things that I've learned and experienced down here in my personal life afterwards. I never knew that I had such a passion and a desire within me to help people that I've never even met before achieve the salvation that not many of them are certain when it comes to where to find it. Before my mission, I was insecure, depressed, and admittedly very lost in my life. It never occurred to me just how significant a role this restored Gospel and the Atonement of Jesus Christ played in my life. The other churches, I learned through a little bit of "research", have not quite grasped just how crucial the Repentance Process is in our lives, nor how if it weren't for the atoning sacrifice of the very loving, very merciful God of this world who gave His live for us all, we couldn't even fathom on returning to live in the presence of our Heavenly Father. We couldn't even fathom live after here on Earth, and we couldn't even be too sure if God even heard or answered our prayers and pleads for His help that we so obviously depend on. I've gained an extremely greater appreciation for what my Savior has done for me, and I'm even more grateful how I can better myself each and every day through His love, His mercy, and His grace. I love you guys so much, and I can't tell you guys how grateful I've been for the love and support that I've been given while I've been busy down here. Until next week, take care!!!

Con Sinceridad y Amor,

Elder Conner Duane "Poderoso" Parke

PS: Love you guys! Tell Chloe I love her!