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