Stories: Elder D Hale's Yamagata Diary 32 pages
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| Missionary Journal of Elder Lester Darrel Hale
Northern Far East Mission
Yamagata Branch September 24, 1958-January 28, 1959
Transcribed by Paula J. Hale
Elder Hale is blind now so without his help,
I have probably made mistakes in spellings. Jan 2009
Sept. 22, 1958 (Tokyo West)
Just after Sunday School started, Sister Shibata came and told me Pres. Andrus was waiting in the hall and wanted to speak to me. Pres. Andrus ask me to transfer to Yamagata. ... He ask me if I could leave tomorrow; but I told him we were very busy (have eight cottage meetings scheduled); so I will leave this Wednesday for Yamagata.
This afternoon we held cottage meetings with Mr. and Mrs. Yoshida and Mr. Nabagawa. Mr. Yoshida approved of his wife, Kimiko Yoshida. Also, Mr. Gotaro Nabagawa signed his baptismal application. He is a wonderful young man (21). He bore his testimony today in Sacr. Meeting and this evening after he signed. He is very sincere and humble. I hoped that I would be able to perform the baptism; but it doesn’t matter tho does it so long as they hold the Priesthood. It has been a great joy teaching and sharing problems with them. I am very happy that the Lord has seen fit to bless them that they are willing to live and obey his commandments.
Wednesday September 24th 1958
Tokyo West and Yamagata
Arose very early this morning packed my suitcase--ate breakfast and bid the Nagata’s farewell--then left for Ueno Station to catch my train for Yamagata. I had a very enjoyable trip. I had a chance to talk to quite a few people about the Word of Wisdom, etc. I read most of the Sept. Relief Society Magazine. Arrived in Yamagata at 4 o’clock P.M. I took a taxi to the missionary’s home; but got lost. It cost me 140 yen when it usually takes 100 yen. This evening the Yamagata Branch held a farewell party for Elder Daniel Kamekona and a welcoming party for myself. It was very good.
Yamagata
Thursday, September 25, 1958
We did a good days work. Held eight cottage meetings and lent two Book of Mormons. I wasn't impressed with any of the meetings, however. Yamagata is a little different. The people are more skeptical up here, I think. This evening was M.I.A. I didn’t think that there were too many out; but it’s about as good as Tokyo.
Friday, Sept. 26, 1958
We held two average cottage meetings today. It rained all day long. I got all wet and my trunks haven’t arrived yet. So I don’t have any boots or clothes to wear. We returned home around noon and I did branch business. Both of the 2nd (lesson)cottage meetings we had went bad and we got the Book of Mormons back.
Sept. 27, 1958 Saturday
I went to the shiyakusho and got registered today. I also went to the bank and had my money transferred up here to Yamagata. It will be about four days. I had some name cards made and did other Branch bus. We had a scheduled cottage meeting; but she didn’t come.
Sept. 28, 1958 Sunday
Today was my first Sunday in Yamagata. (I am Branch President) I was called on to give a 2 1/2 minute talk in Sunday School when one of the 2 1/2 min talks failed to show up. They have a very good Jr. S.S. and quite a good Sr. S. S. I conducted both Sacrament and Priesthood meetings this evening. We had a good attendance at both meetings.
Sept. 29th 1958 Monday
I went to the hospital today to see what was wrong with my back. I found out it was just sprained bad. The Dr. told me to take it easy for a few days. I worked on Branch reports all day. They are all ready to send to the Mission Home on the 1st. We went and saw Sister Midera who has been in the hospital for about 3 months. Pleurisy is the cause of her sickness. She looks very healthy and happy now, however.
Sept. 30, 1958 Tuesday
We tracted this morning for quite a long time. Held three good cottage meetings and sold one Book of Mormon to a man in an office. We taught four men and a woman. They seemed to be very interested. We made a return appointment for next Sat. We tried street tracting and made a couple of good contacts which kept their promise and came out. Adachi San also came this evening. She is very quiet and hard to tell what her emotions are. We taught her the seventh lesson. We also had a good First lesson with three little girls from our English class.
October 1st, 1958 Wednesday
We sent off our personal reports and also the Branch Reports today. I went to the bank to get out some money for Branch use and found out that Elder Kamekona had forgotten to have it changed to me. I have to send him a form to fill out before I can use any Branch funds. This morning at 10 o’clock a very fine boy came from street tracting yesterday.
This afternoon after sending the reports we held two poor meetings. This evening we taught our English class at the American Center. Mr. Abe accompanied us home where we taught him the first cottage meeting.
Oct. 2nd, 1958 Thursday
We held six good cottage meetings today. The first one with Mr. Endo. The next Mr. Nagatsu who bought a Book of Mormon. We had two other meetings and came home for the 3 o’clock cottage meeting. It was with a young man we met in our English class. Mr. Nakamura is his name. Seems to be a good boy and very interested in religion. We interviewed Adachi San for baptism this evening. She is willing and wants to be baptized, however her parents are opposed to it she said. I told her we would like to meet with her parents. She is of age; but her parents should know.
Oct. 3rd, 1958 Friday
We held five cottage meetings today; however, we didn’t make any return appointments. It seemed like the people had listened out of courtesy and not interest. Mr. Abe didn’t keep his appointment this evening. We held a good English Class. We will soon have to get a larger room to meet in.
Oct. 4th, 1958 Saturday
We held one cottage meeting early this morning with three men. 2nd lesson, they didn’t seem to pay attention, so we didn’t make a return appointment. We went street tracting for the rest of the day. It wasn’t very good. We only had one boy come and keep his promise. Mr. Nakara. He is a very fine young man. Seemed to be very interested. We also taught Mr. Nakamura from our English class. He is very interested also.
Oct. 5th, 1958 Sunday
We had a wonderful testimony meeting this afternoon. About 15 of the members bore very strong and wonderful testimonies. It was truly a thrill to hear them. I was about to close the meeting twice; however, the members asked me to wait and let them bear their testimony also. This afternoon we went and saw Sister Sasaki and Midera who are sick in the hospital. They seemed to be of good spirits. I told them about Job in the Old Testament. This evening we had a fireside. I was going to show my slides; but the projector wouldn’t work. This morning in Sunday School I taught the investigators class.
Oct. 6th, 1958 Monday
This morning we taught Mr. Nabara the 2nd lesson. He bought his Book of Mormon and expressed a desire to continue to study. Sister Midera invited us for dinner. We had a very fine time visiting with her. Miss Adachi signed her baptismal application this evening. I don’t quite understand her actions. I think it best to wait for a while before we baptize her. We went to a picture show this evening. They were both Westerns. Broken Lance and Jubal. Good shows.
Oct. 7th, 1958 Tuesday
This morning we took care of Branch business. Went to the bank-wrote a card to Elder Simmons about conference-etc. This afternoon we held four first cottage meetings. We sold one Book of Mormon and made a return appointment for next week. This evening we taught our girls again. Miss Fujita and Miss Nakamura. They are good girls. We set their baptismal date for Nov. 22. This evening was Relief Society. They had a testimony meeting; it was very good.--The Sisters want the Elders to go to Tokyo with them Saturday night because they don’t know the way. I guess there will be around twenty people attending conference.
P.S. Tonight we caught our eighth rat since I came to Yamagata.
Oct. 8, 1958 Wednesday
Today we had a trying time. Have never seen it so hard to get in. We tracted for six hours and only got in one home. It was terrible. We had people tell us they couldn’t understand and others were not interested and others they said that nobody was home- etc. I pray we don’t have any more days like today. We had a good English class this evening. We can’t get them all in the room. We had over 50 ladies. Held a good cottage meeting with a couple of boys which came from our English class.
Oct. 9th, 1958 Thursday
Our luck changed today. Through the help of the Lord we held seven cottage meetings. Six of which were 1st and the last one was with Miss Fujita and Nakamura. We taught them the 3rd lesson and set their baptismal date. They haven’t bought the Book of Mormon yet. I told them to bring the money next time and they left the Book of Mormon here.
We held a good M.I.A. this evening. There weren’t very many present when the meeting started, but before class was out we had 26 people out.
Oct. 10th, 1958 Friday
This morning we held a wonderful meeting with Mr. Nakara. We taught him the 3rd lesson and set his baptismal date. He gave the closing prayer and prayed that he might be able to understand and live the gospel; also that he may be baptized. He seems to be a wonderful young man.
We went tracting the rest of the day; however we didn’t hold any very good meetings. We seemed to meet only old women and they weren’t interested in the gospel. This evening we did hold a very good 2nd cottage meeting with Mr. Koguchi and his friend. This evening at 9:30 we left for Tokyo.
Oct. 11, 1958 Saturday
We did a lot of running around today. We arrived in Tokyo about 6:30 A.M. We left the members and went to Ogikubo only to find out the Elders had moved to Kichijoji We went over there and talked to the Elders. I found out that Elder Goodman didn’t settle up with the maid; so we returned and she gave me back 1000 yen. I sold my bicycle for 300 yen. I took off the light and I am going to put it on the one in Yamagata. This evening we attended a wonderful MIA Conference. There were over 300 people present. It was a Road show and each branch took 8 minutes.
Oct 12, 1958 Sunday
This morning I went with some Elders to clean the hall so we can have it looking nice for conference. The Conference was held at Azabu no Tokyo Kyoiku Kaikan.
We attended a very good Priesthood Meeting with 142 present. The largest ever held in Japan. Brother Suzuki from Yamagata gave the closing prayer. I talked to Pres. Andrus right after meeting and asked him what he thought about making Brother Suzuki 1st Counselor in the Branch Presidency. He readily approved. Pres. Andrus said for Elder Simmons to interview him and for me to set him apart after I got the membership approval in Yamagata.
There were 392 present for General Conference. Both sessions were very good. Pres. Andrus told the young women of the church to leave the Elders alone. Elder Taylor baptized Mr. Nakagawa on the 4th as planned. I was very happy to see how happy they were. They haven’t baptized Mrs. Yoshida yet. However, they are studying with her daughter. I think they will probably both be baptized together.
I attended the genealogy leadership during leadership. We don’t have a genealogy committee here in Yamagata. We had 22 people from Yamagata that went to the conference in Tokyo.
Oct. 13, 1958 Monday
We went over to South Branch to hold Report Meeting.
Just before testimony meeting Pres. Andrus gave us a rebuke. He said that there is too much play in the mission field; language ability is decreasing, cottage meetings are going down along with total proselytizing hours. Also there has been too many romances in the last few months. “Get on the ball, or get out”. If missionaries go to French movies they will be sent home. He also mentioned that the missionaries refer to Monday as their day off. It’s not a day off, but a rest day and a day to do personal business. Don’t go and see two different shows in one day. After Pres. Andrus finished talking, we held a very good testimony meeting. There were many who made vows and all present showed forth a repentant spirit. I’m sure we will go back to our branches and do better work. ... After testimony meeting Pres. Andrus had an interview with the lady missionaries.
After each missionary was interviewed.
This evening we were to play basketball; however it was so late that I and a few other Elder’s went to the show.
October 14, 1958 Tuesday
We went to see Dr. King about Elder Marlowe’s ringworm; but he wasn't there. Elder Kamekona gave me a 300 yen Book of Mormon for the one that was missing from the M.R. F. I forgot to ask him about the 1,200 yen the maid wanted for food. When I bought his bicycle, he told me that it was paid for. We got on the 1:45 PM train from Ueno and got back to Yamagata at 9:30 all tired out.
October 15th, 1958 Wednesday
Today it rained and we didn’t get anything done. Had two cottage meetings. Taught Mr. Saito the second lesson and Miss Adachi the seventh lesson. I can’t figure her out. I know that until she comes to church and bears her testimony that we won’t baptize her. This evening we had a cottage meeting scheduled with Mr. Nabara, but he didn’t show up.
October 16, 1958 Thursday
We only held two average meetings today. I did(n’t) feel very good. I guess, I must be coming down with a cold, runny nose, etc. Miss Fujita and Nakamura did(n’t) keep their appointment. ...
This evening at MIA they were going to have a record concert; but the record player wouldn’t play; so we had to use the old player and it wasn’t very good. Weren’t very many out; maybe because of the rain.
October 17, 1958 Friday
I really felt terrible today. Both I and Elder Marlowe have bad colds, feel rotten. Stayed in bed all day. This evening we went and taught our English Class. We held two cottage meetings after English class with members of the class. They were pretty good meetings; but I doubt if they will keep their return appointment because they said they were Catholic.
October 18, 1958 Saturday
We walked in the rain today. First to see Mr. Mereta whom we had made an appointment with. They gave us back the Book of Mormon and told us they could not believe it. It was raining so we walked down town and hunted for a new house to rent. They showed us a very nice little place, but it was in back of an old house and we would have to walk through the old house to get in it. Also the daughter didn’t want her parents to rent it to Americans. We held only one cottage meeting.
October 19, 1958 Sunday
We had two new investigators out to Sunday School-a blind man and a young student. We made appointments with both of them.
Held Leadership meeting right after S. S. I gave a short talk on promptness; also some ideas on how to improve their meetings.
This evening Brother Suzuki and family gave a very good program on “What the Priesthood means to our family.”
October 20, 1958 Monday
Our colds were about gone. Sure am glad! Sister Nakamura came and visited for awhile this morning. We went to see about renting a house; but they don’t have any good ones. We went to the picture show this evening and saw two good films “OK Corral” and Jubal”
October 21, 1958 Tuesday
We got out and did a good days work of proselytizing. Held seven cottage meetings and sold two Books of Mormon. The only people who bought the Books didn’t want to study. We met three very good boys in an apt. and taught them the first lesson. They seemed very interested and we loaned them a Book of Mormon. We made appointments with each of them to come to our home this evening. One came early and the other one didn’t show up.
October 22, 1958 Wednesday
It seems like we can get into the homes very good; but it is very hard to make return appointments. They say it’s good; but we can’t listen because we are Buddhist and our parents were Buddhist also.
This evening we taught English Class again and made an appointment with two boys to come home right after and taught them the J. S. Story. We also made another appointment with Mr. Oizuma who is blind. He didn’t come Tuesday because of work.
October 23, 1958 Thursday
We held some good meetings today, six in all. Miss Arachi came late this evening and said she won’t have time to study.
October 24, 1958 Friday
We went back this morning to see Mr. Miyasaki. He met us as the door with the Book of Mormon and said “I am a Buddhist.”
Elder Marlowe was very surprised when he told him Salt Lake City was famous for prostitution.
We didn’t teach any second meetings today; but held 8 good firsts. We made four return appointments and lent four Books of Mormon and sold one. When we got back from our English Class, three of our appointments had come and said they couldn’t make it this evening.
October 25, 1958 Saturday
Our first meeting which we had scheduled; we didn’t hold because the old man met us at the door and gave the Book of Mormon back and said they didn’t want it.
We held a second meeting with Tezuka and she said that she believed it; but they hadn’t been sick for eight years and so she wasn’t going to change.
We also taught three boys the second lesson this evening; but they claim to be too busy to study. This evening I bought a tea kettle--550 yen--out of M.R. F.
October 26, 1958 Sunday
There was only one new investigator out today. He is a very fine boy and we made an appointment for this Friday. This evening two girls came out to Sacrament meeting and we made an appointment with them for Tuesday. They want to know the difference between the Baptist Church and the Church of Jesus Christ; so we told them we would be very happy to teach of God’s true Church. Sister Nakayama, Noriko and Brother Soji were the speakers in Sacrament Meeting.
October 27, 2008 Monday
We got up and 5:30 AM and took a train to Yuzawa where we visited with “Sisters Enomoto Toshiko and her daughter, Katsuko. We held a Sacrament Meeting and I gave a talk followed by testimonies from Elder Kent W. Marlowe and Sister Enomoto Toshiko. There was one male investigator present. It was a nice trip; it took fours hours to go and 4 hours to return. It rained quite a bit today. On the way back to Yamagata, we taught a fine young man and we gave him an old used Book of Mormon. We taught Mr. Oizuma this evening and I had a hard time making him understand. I found out the problem was that he doesn’t believe that God has a body of flesh and bone. He also said that he didn’t want to understand, so we left. However, he wanted to keep the Book of Mormon, but didn’t want to buy it. We had another boy bring back the Book of Mormon and not want to study.
October 28, 1958 Tuesday
Elder Marlowe is sick with a bad cold. I taught the two little girls which we made an appointment with Sunday. They sure are sweet, clean girls and were very interested. Both prayed very good. They said that they believed the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints to be true and not the Baptist Church which they had been going to in their prayer. We scheduled a return meeting for tomorrow. This evening the Relief Society held a party to get more members out and get them interested. It was a success and I enjoyed it very much.
October 29, 1958 Wednesday
Today we went to the prison and they are going to print us some tracts for Sunday School, also an English Conversation and MIA tract. From there we went and got a haircut. Then we went and saw Sis. Midera at the hospital. She will probably get out next month. She has been in the hospital a long time. We tried street contacting; several promised, but none came out. We taught our little girls, Miss Shamira and Watanabe the 2nd lesson. They brought us some beautiful flowers.
October 30, 1958 Thursday
We held some very good cottage meetings today. We taught 10 first meetings and lent 4 Book of Mormons. We had three good boys come from street tracting and held six by going from house to house. We made four return appointments.
Tonight was “sports night” in MIA We played badminton and ping pong, etc. It was very recreational and I had a lot of fun.
October 31, 1958 Friday
Our first appointment this morning failed to show. She said that she was too busy to study. I guess, she was persuaded to stop by her folks because they are Catholic. Elder Marlowe tried out his tracting approach. Not too bad for the first time. Tried three times and made it through once. We held two tracting meetings and this afternoon a very good second meeting with Mr. Takahashi. He said that he wanted to study, but was busy--so he will come to church next week and we will make another appointment. The rest of the day we worked on Branch reports.
November 1, 1958 Saturday
I worked on reports until about 11:20 AM. Elder Marlowe didn’t get started early enough and didn’t get through until 3 AM. The Post Office closes at 12. We went to the main place and it was opened; however we couldn’t buy a money order. Tomorrow is Sunday; so it doesn’t look as if we will get them sent until Monday. Monday is also a holiday; so I don’t know. We went to the prison and got our tracts, they look pretty good.
November 2, 1958 Sunday
We had a very wonderful testimony meeting. Several very strong testimonies were born. Sister Suguira bore hers and I heard that it was the first time. She is very shy. I got up to close the meeting; but three more bore their testimonies before closing. Mr. Oizuma said that he could believe and that he would like to study. Also Miss Shimazu was present; she is a very sweet little girl.
This evening we held Priesthood meeting and finished planning for the ice cream party. Bro. Sugara and I ordered the ice cream this afternoon.
November 3, 1958 Monday
We set two baptismal dates with Miss Shimazu and Watanabe. They are very sincere and humble girls. Mr. Oizuma didn’t come at 12:30 but came later and we weren’t home. He came to the party this evening and we made another appointment with him. There were 35 people out to the party. It was very successful and we cleared about 4,000 yen profit.(Branch budget).
Oh! This afternoon we went and listened to a Japanese musical. It was very interesting. They played on a Japanese instrument named “Koto” Its a log with a string on it.
November 4, 1958 Tuesday
Elder Marlowe and I took the movie machine back to the American Culture Center. We also took the spoon back. We tore down the old sign and took it to a sign maker. We are having him make two new signs from it. One to put down in front of the Rodo Kaikan and the other one for our house. It will cost 2,000 yen.
We went tracting for a little while, but didn’t hold any very good meetings. This evening we taught Mr. Oizuma (blind man) the second lesson again. ... He is going to come to church.
November 5, 1958 Wednesday
Today we street contacted all day. Made several appointments, but only two came. We felt pretty blue about it. We had an English class this evening. There were about 50 people out. We rushed off because we had an appointment and didn’t try to contact any one. It was too bad because we might have found a good boy.
November 6, 1958 Thursday
We tracted a little while this morning. We didn't have any luck. On one side of the road no body would let us in. They all lock their doors. We got disgusted and went street contacting. We also went to the prison and got the English Conversation tracts. Passed them out the rest of the afternoon. This evening we had over 20 people to it. About half stayed for MIA. I made several appointments. It was a great success.
November 7, 1958
It rained all day and was nasty. We tracted a while this morning. Only got into one home. However this evening we taught four very wonderful cottage meetings. The Spirit of the Lord was present in abundance. We made return appointments with all four. They all said that they would like to learn more. Mr. Saito wanted an English Book of Mormon. I think he might be just out for English; so I made the point very clear that if he just wants English we didn’t have time. He said that he wanted to study. We also taught an English conversation class at the American Culture Center. I guess we are going to judge an English contest tomorrow.
November 8, 1958 Saturday
Elder Marlowe is sick with stomach trouble. I guess its something he has eaten. He stayed in bed until noon. A one o’clock we went to the American Culture Center and judged an English contest. It was very interesting. It lasted for 1 1/2 hours.
We taught Shimazu and Watanabe the 4th lesson on God’s commandments. Their reaction was very good. Mr. Sagae and Kimura, also Saito came for second lessons. We thought that Mr. Sagae and Kimura were very Good. ... We taught Mr. Endo the first lesson and his reactions were very good. He is one of Brother Sigara’s friends
Sunday November 9, 1958
It was very cold today. I thought that I was going to freeze to death before we got out of church. The Relief Society gave the program for Sacrament Meeting. It was good. I had to make a few remarks, also. We had six investigators out to Sunday School and Miss Adachi came to Sacrament meeting. It looks like she will ... be baptized. We had three very good cottage meetings this evening after Priesthood. First meeting with Sato and 2nd lessons with Ota and Tachibana. All good boys.
November 10, 1958, Monday
Didn’t get up very early this morning. We went to see a house which was for rent, but it wasn’t any good. Very dirty and in a bad place. We looked for another place, but didn’t find any. This evening we held four very good cottage meetings. One prayed that he might have God’s help to repent. Another to become a member of God’s true church and Mr. Endo prayed that he might soon become a brother in the church. It was truly a wonderful experience. This evening we also went to see Oizuma San. He wants us to help him get or order a book for the blind from America. He bought a Book of Mormon.
Tuesday November 11, 1958
We had a wonderful meeting with Miss Shimazu and Miss Watanabe. They both bore their testimonies they have a desire to be baptized. They have come to MIA and they were both to Church Sunday. Mr. Sakai came this evening without his friend. He is a fine boy and set his baptismal for Nov. 29. We had two first cottage meetings; however they weren’t very good. One said that he didn’t have time; the other one we lent the Book of Mormon to, however, he wasn’t very sincere I didn’t feel. We got the signs and put them up today; they sure look good. Now we have to get a light and put over ours.
November 12, 1958 Wednesday
We didn’t get much done today. Saw about getting a light fixed over our sign. I bought a lamp; but don’t know if it will work. Cost 150 yen. We saw a company and said that they (would) put it up for 1000 yen. I guess they'll get it done tomorrow.
Taught Mr. Sakai the fourth lesson. He said that he could keep the Word of Wisdom and that he wanted to obey God’s commandments. We set Miss Adachi’s baptismal date for Dec 6; also she is going to bear her testimony in Sacrament on the 23rd. We taught Mr. Sato the 3rd lesson and he said that he would try and prepare himself for baptism. Said that thought he could be ready by Nov. 29th.
We also set Mr. Ota’s baptismal.... Brother Suzuki and I figured out the Branch teaching areas.
November 13, 1858 Thursday
It rained most of the day and we didn’t get very much done. Held two average meetings. We couldn’t street contact because of the rain. This evening there weren’t very many out to MIA Only 29; half were investigators. We got our new futons today. They sure are nice. I sure hope Pres. Andrus approves of it. He approved 6000 yen to fix the bottoms and had some tops sent from Sendai were worn out. They had big holes and one was half size. So we had them fixed. It only cost 3,000 yen.
November 14, 1958 Friday
We had 3 meetings today. Our first one was with Mrs. Yokata. We taught her the second lesson and her reaction was good. She agreed that if we were to be able to enter the kingdom of God we would have to repent and be baptized. Also that God is fair and judges us by our actions. She said that she didn’t have any interest; however when she prayed, she prayed that she might be able to study.
We had two other good first meetings. Lent Mr. Shoji a Book of Mormon. We had three boys that didn’t come this evening. I guess it might have been because of the rain. It rained very hard all day and was nasty. We taught our English Conversation class at the Culture Center and there we lost our umbrella.
November 15, 1958 Saturday
We had five good cottage meetings today. We interviewed Miss Shimizu and Watanabe for baptism; they both bore their testimonies and expressed the desire to be baptized. The are only 16 years old. I pray that their parents will approve of their being baptized. We also taught two good 4th lessons to Mr. Sato and Mr. Ota. They promised to obey God’s commandments. When I said, “can you obey the Word of Wisdom, when do you want to start?”, They said, “now.” It was a thrill to teach them.
November 16 , 1958 Sunday
We had several investigators out to Sunday School. Also most of them stayed for Sacrament Meeting. Mr. Ota and Mr. Sato were both present. Miss Adachi wasn’t to church... I gave a talk during Sac. meeting on the paying of Tithes and Fast offering also the importance of attending our meetings. There were 28 out; but half were investigators. We had a good cottage meeting this evening and held Priesthood meeting.
November 17, 1958 Monday
Today we went to see why they hadn’t fixed the light above the sign; also why they hadn't changed the kanji; so it could be read. They both said they would get right at it. Went to see Sister Yoshida and see why she didn’t come to Sacrament and give her talk. She was sick with a bad cold. ...
We had several cottage meetings scheduled; but only three came out. It seems like we just can’t win. Bought a new table cloth; also some Christmas cards to send home.
November 18, 1958 Tuesday
We took a recreation day today instead of Monday because the Sisters held Relief Society here this evening. I sent a few Christmas cards and wrote a letter to the Elliotts. I also sent a package home for Christmas.
We had a pretty good cottage meeting with Mr. Obata. He is one of Brother Sagara’s friends.
We went and saw the show “All Mine to Give.” It was very enjoyable and had a good story behind it.
November 19, 1958 Wednesday
Today the man came to fix the light; however, he didn’t get finished. We had to wait around and tell him just what we wanted done.
We went street contacting; and made several appointments. Three of them came out; however, none were exceptionally good. This evening we taught English at the American Culture Center. We aren’t going to teach any more on Fridays; just on Wednesdays.
November 20, 1958 Thursday
We sure didn’t get very much done today. Had three scheduled appointments and only one came and he was late. One was with Shimazu and Watanabe San. They said school didn’t let out in time. Both were at MIA. Will study next Tuesday. Had 26 people out to our English class. Also 26 investigators were in attendance for MIA--making a total of 44. I made one good appointment with Dr. Hara.
Got the light up and it really looks good over the sign.
November 21, 1958 Friday
We got out early and made several appointments for this evening; however, four failed to show up. We tracted for a little while and held a very good meeting with Mr. Ibaraki. He seemed very interest and wanted to read the Book of Mormon. We had ?th lessons with Mr. Sato and Mr. Ota. ...Then Dr. Hara bought an English copy of the Book of Mormon; did(n’t) want a Japanese copy. We paid for the fixing of the sign light and it cost us 1,100 yen. It sure looks good.
November 22, 1958 Saturday
Out of our 11 scheduled meetings we held only five. The first place we went he was at home and the old woman gave us a line about being broke, etc. However, we had some wonderful meetings. We set Seino’s and Takeyama’s baptismal date for the 20 of Dec. They are both very good boys and said that they would prepare for baptism. We taught Dr. Hara the second lesson and he seemed to be impressed. He said that he couldn’t come Sunday because of work. We also taught two first meetings which were good.
November 23, 1958 Sunday
We had ten investigators out for Sunday School and eight stayed for Sacrament Meeting. Miss Adachi payed her tithes and said to wait until next week to bear her testimony. Mr. Sato told me he was obeying the Word of Wisdom. Both Seino and Takeyama were present. Mr. Ota has changed a great deal. I think both Mr. Ota. Sato, Miss Adachi, Shimazu and Watanabe will be ready by the 6th of Dec.
Brother Suzuki and I held a Branch Presidency Meeting . We are going to reorganize the MIA, Sunday School; Sr. and Jr. Also start a Genealogy class.
Monday November 24, 1958
I have a pretty bad cold. We are taking the day off for personal business. I got caught up in the Branch Reports. Wrote a letter home. We waited for Mr. Endo, but he didn’t come. Went to the show this evening and got out at 8:30 PM. It was The Man behind the Tin Star. and another one with John Wayne.
November 25, 1958, Tuesday
We got a haircut first thing and then had dinner at the dept. We street contacted and made several appointments; three of them came and we held one very good meeting with Mr. MIzuno and Mr. Kokabe(?). Mr. Niwa came out for English. After we told him about the Book of Mormon; he told us he didn’t believe it. We gave him the Joseph Smith Story and told him to read it.
This coming Saturday we are going to visit Miss Shimazu’s parents. Miss Watanabe didn’t know what was the best time to visit her parents; so she told us this MIA. They both have strong testimonies and want to be baptized. We taught them the 6th lesson.
We also taught Mr. Seino the 4th lesson on the Commandments. He said that he wished to obey the Word of Wisdom from tonight on. He also said that there weren’t any commandments that he couldn’t keep. I was very happy to see the action he took. When we met with him on the first lesson, he asked about the Word of Wisdom. I told him about it and bore my testimony. I guess he must have decided ot obey then or he wouldn’t have come back.
November 26, 1958 Wednesday
We had six good cottage meetings today and we didn’t even have to leave the house. I still have my cold. We taught two good second meetings. We also interviewed Mr. Sato for baptism. He is a humble and sincere young man. However, is only 19 years old. His birthday is on the 25th of Dec. We set his baptismal date for the 6th if his parents approve by letter will be able; if not we will have to wait until the 25th. I was going to interview Mr. Ota for baptism...
November 27, 1958 Thursday
We only taught one cottage meeting. It was very good second with 2 very good boys. They both bought Book of Mormons. They both are young and can’t read very well. However, they are very humble. During MIA this evening they held three plays: Sunday School, MIA and Relief Society. All were good and I enjoyed them. However it was very cold and I shouldn’t have gone because I have a worse cold now.
November 28, 1958 Friday
Elder Marlowe is sick with a sore throat. I don’t feel very good either. We went and took a bath and waited for our scheduled meetings. Miss Adachi came; but had to leave to catch the bus. We taught Mr. Ota the 6th lesson. Dr. Hara didn’t come.
November 29, 1958 Saturday
We taught Misses Shimazu and Watanabe their last lesson today. Miss Shimazu’s parents won’t approve her baptism... They said that their parents told them to wait and study longer. I had hopes of baptizing Shimazu the next time (Dec. 6).
We also taught Mr. Sato the 6th lesson. His reaction was very good and he wants to be able to live worthy to be married in the temple; also do work for the dead. He will make a wonderful member.
Sunday November 30, 1958
We had a very good Sunday School and Sacrament. Miss Adachi and Mr. Sato bore their testimonies during Sacrament and expressed a desire to become members. They have good strong testimonies. Sister Takahashi didn’t come to give her talk in Sac. because her husband was sick. I asked Yoshida, Shigeko to talk and she readily consented. Sister Iwata gave a short talk on the Word of Wisdom.
I asked Bro. Shoji about the MIA Counselor; but he wanted me to wait until Priesthood. He never came; so I don’t know...Elder Whitaker and Elder Walker arrived.
December 1, 1958 Monday
2nd Counselor of the Mission, Elder Whitaker and Mission Secretary, Elder Walker, came and made an audit of the Branch. Also an inventory of Branch and M.R. F. equipment. It took all day and they left for Tokyo this evening... I was pretty tired when I got through. We taught Miss Kawai the 1st lesson.
December 2, 1958 Tuesday
We taught three wonderful meetings today with the following: Mr. Sato, Mr. Seino, and Mr. Takeyama. Mr. Sato was late; so we taught Mr. Seino the 5th lesson. His reaction was very good and he wants to be baptized by someone who holds the priesthood. We taught Mr. Sato about Sacrament and duties of the members. We told him that we couldn’t baptize him until his parents approve. He feels that his parents will consent.
We taught Mr. Takeyama the commandment lessons. He promised that he would try to obey the commandments. He was smoking, but he gave them to us and said that he was quitting.
We attended Relief Society and they want us to help with a Japanese dance for Christmas party.
December 3, 1958 Wednesday
We went contacting today, but nobody came. We taught Mr. Mizuno the 3rd lesson set his baptismal date for Jan. 16. He showed by his actions that he is sincere. I feel that he will repent. We will teach him the commandments this Sat.
We went over to the Culture Center and taught English. Mr. Hina invited us to a Christmas party on the 22 of Dec.
December 4, 1958,
We didn’t do very much today First we went to the prison and ordered my shoes.
Then we hunted for the place Miss Atsuko Adachi works. We had quite a (time) finding it. I still have a bad cold. Seems like I can’t get rid of it. I didn’t go to MIA this evening. We don’t have any heat in our meeting house. We taught Mr. Endo and Mr. Yamado a lesson on repentance.
December 5, 1958 Friday
I wrote a little down Thursday that happened today. I got a couple days behind in writing in this diary. We scheduled a meeting with Miss Adachi, but she didn’t come. I guess her boss won’t let her off work until the train goes.
We taught a first meeting with Mr. Watanabe; but I don’t think he’ll be back. We taught Mr. Sato the last lesson No. 8. He’s a very humble boy and has a strong desire to be baptized. ...
December 6, 1958 Saturday
Miss Atsuko Adachi came this morning and apologized for not coming last night. We had a good review and she bore her testimony. This afternoon Elder Kent W. Marlowe baptized her in Matsuburo River. He was a little scared. First person that he has ever baptized. It was very wonderful to be able to conduct and behold the spirit which was there.
This evening we had two very good cottage meetings. Dr. Hara had not studied very hard. He decided to buy a Japanese copy of the Book of Mormon. We taught Mr. Mizuno the Commandment lesson. This afternoon he asked me about the Word of Wisdom. I told him and he took his smokes out and burned them in the stove. He said that he would try to obey them. However; it will be hard.
December 7, 1958
We had a new boy named Mr. Ota come out for the first time. He said that I sold his father a Book of Mormon about a month ago. I taught him the first lesson and he wants to study. We had two visitors from Tokyo today. Brothers Ratsui and Nakahigashi. They both talked during Sacrament Meeting. Gave very good talks. We will hold Testimony Meeting next week. Miss Kawai didn’t keep her appointment.
December 8, 1958 Monday
Today I wrote a couple of letters. We went down town and looked around, then came back for our cottage meeting appointment. He didn’t come. Our second meeting was with Mr. Ota. He seems to be a very fine boy. We went to the show this evening and saw a couple of Cowboy movies. It was raining when we got out and I got wet.
December 9, 1958, Tuesday
This evening we started interviewing Mr. Seino ..
Mr. Takeyama did(n’t) come this evening and keep his appointment.
December 10, 1958 Wednesday
It snowed hard all day and we didn’t get anything done. Elder Marlowe felt a little sick. I guess he is going to catch a cold--sure hope not. We taught our English at the American Culture Center. There weren’t very many out because of the storm. Mr. Hino invited us to a Christmas Party on the 22nd.
December 11, 1958 Thursday
We were disappointed today because all of our scheduled appointments fell through - none came out. We only held one first meeting with Mr. Watanabe and he wasn’t very interested. We sure have been having a rough time this month. It seems like our contacts can’t keep the commandments. We had a good MIA. We now have more investigators attend then members. Mr. Seino came up to me and said that he was ready to study.
December 12, 1958 Friday
We held five good cottage meetings today. We held four first and taught Mr. Mizuno a lesson on repentance. We lent two Book of Mormons. ...
December 13, 1958 Saturday
We taught three seconds, one first, and a fifth lesson today. Mr. Hara and Mr. Satoshi we reviewed and they didn’t remember the Plan of Salvation; so I retaught it. Mr. Satoshi hasn’t studied for a long time. He paid for his Book of Mormon and expressed the desire to study. Mr. Takeyama had a cold last week and that was why he didn’t come. He says that he would try to quit smoking.
December 14, 1958 Sunday
There weren’t many people out to Sunday School. Mr. Hara came. He said that he was very busy at the hospital and couldn’t stay for Testimony meeting. We held the Sacrament and Testimony meeting in our home because we can’t use the Rodo Kaikan on the 2nd Sunday. It is the day off at the Kaikan.
I received two packages from home today; one from Mother and the other from Nedra. We held Priesthood Meeting and after Elder Marlowe and I went to get something to eat. When we returned, the Priesthood had eaten a good share of the cookies Nedra sent. In fact they ate all that was in the box. If I hadn’t taken some out and put away, we would not have had any.
December 15, 1958 Monday
I wrote some letters today; one to Elder Walker and giving him permission to take 5,000 yen out of my check and pay on Rent and Equipment. We also went to see if my boots were done. They were but I am getting them to fix them in one place a little. They are going to cost me 3,500 yen.
We had two good cottage meetings. .... We taught Mr. Watanabe the 2nd lesson and his reaction was average. He didn’t know whether he was God’s child or not. However, he did want to go to the glory of the sun.
December 16, 1958 Tuesday
We left at 6 o’clock this morning for Yugawa to see Sister Enomoto who has been sick. We arrived at 10 and held a good meeting with her. I taught her about the Priesthood apostasy. We inquired about her financially, etc. She still has a bad cold and must be careful.
When we arrived back at Yamagata, we had two men waiting for a cottage meeting. Mr. Takahashi bought the Book of Mormon. They both said they would like to continue to study. ... This evening during Relief Society we practiced a Japanese Dance for the Christmas program.
December 17, 1958 Wednesday
We didn’t do very much today. I didn’t like street contacting because we couldn’t find any men that would listen. We went to the show, but I didn’t feel any better
This morning we held two cottage meetings. We taught Mr. Takahashi the 2nd lesson and Mr. Mizuna had several questions for us to answer.... We taught our last English Class at the Culture Center for this year. I told Mr. Hino we would come to his party on 22nd of Dec.
December 18, 1958 Thursday
We went tracting from house to house and held two good meetings. Mrs. Sato said she would like to have faith and wants to study; however, she didn’t want the Book of Mormon until tomorrow.
Mr. Satoshi didn’t keep his appointment.
Sister Adachi came and brought us some flowers. I gave her, her baptismal Certificate. She sure is a happy girl since she has been baptized. I talked with Mr. Sato and he wants to wait and be baptized after he talks with his father.
There were 42 people out to MIA last night. Sister Miamoto announced no MIA next week and I was very surprised because no one had said anything to me about it. I’ll have to talk with the MIA Presidency. Mr. Seino asked me when he could come and study again.
December 19, 1958 Friday
We went street contacting until noon and made several appointments; however only two boys came. Mr. Obata came and paid for his Book of Mormon. We had a good review with him. This evening we taught Mr. Mizuno, Jun. the seventh lesson; also interviewed him for baptism. He is now living the Word of Wisdom and will keep all the rest. He was very happy to be able to learn about his ancestors and that he is almost prepared to be baptized. He gave a very good definition of each principle of the gospel and bore his testimony of the truthfulness of it. We were also very thrilled about it. He is going home for the Christmas Holiday season; so we will not baptize him until Jan. 15. I received a great big box of goodies from Vic and Charlotte
December 20, 1958 Saturday.
It rained all day. Pretty rough. We went and looked at a big house that is for rent. It is in a very good location and large enough to hold church in. The want 10,000 yen for it. We’ll have to see what the Priesthood think about it. If they like it we’ll pay half and the branch will pay the other half. I’m sure they want it because at the Rodo Kaikan we can’t meet every Sunday.
Elder Marlowe had a visitor this evening-Miss Takeda. I went down and asked her in; but she wouldn’t come. She had a Christmas card for each of us. ...
December 21, 1958 Sunday
We had a very large number of members out. I think the total members was 32 counting the investigators. Mr. Takeyama and Satoshi where both present; however, I didn’t make appointments with them. ...
We had a very nice good Christmas program; however they got started late. I conducted Sacrament Meeting. Sisters Imoge and Takahashi and Brother Ishitani gave very good talks. After Church I took the brethren up to see the house. This evening during Priesthood, we let each express himself. They were all in favor of renting it. Brother Suzuki said the old man said that they wanted 10,000 yen as a down payment. Brother Suzuki and I will go tomorrow and find out.
Had a good turn out for Leadership meeting. I made the remarks that nobody has the right to decide when to have a holiday “that is not to hold a meeting”... I held each department after they divided into separate classes.
December 22, 1958 Monday
I wrote a few letters; also Christmas cards. Sister Nakamura came and visited for quite awhile. She told me about her problems. Also I found out (about) Brother Shoji and Nakayama . ....
Mr. Watanabe bought the Book of Mormon. We had a good review and he promised to study hard.
This evening we went to the American Culture Center Party. It was enjoyable. No program--We just ate a lot of food.
We visited Brother Suzuki and both of us went to see about the house. We found out they wanted 10,000 down and if they sold the building we would have to move; so we gave it up.
December 23, 1958 Tuesday
We didn’t get very much done. Mr. Takahashi did come. We did have a very good cottage meeting with Mr. Seino. I have hopes that he will be baptized soon. He surely has changed I lent him a Doc. and Cov. to read.
We danced a Japanese dance during Relief Society for the M.I.A. Christmas party to be held this Saturday.
December 24, 1958 Wednesday
We held or tried to hold a cottage meeting this morning with Mr. Kanaw. ... Said he only had ten min., so I taught him part of the J.S. Story. This afternoon--wrote Christmas cards to all the inactive members.
This evening everyone except me went caroling. I stayed home and made the eats. We had some Tapioca pudding and cookies. Charged 100 yen and made around 1,100 yen for the building fund.
December 25, 1958 Thursday
We spent money today. Elder Marlowe wanted to buy some presents for the Sato’s. So we went shopping altogether. We spend 2,210 yen and I paid half. We bought a cake for Mr. Akiba at the Rodo Kaikan. A box of soap (10 bars) for Numazawa Shimai. For the kids we got a train for the four boys. A little lion for Yukido and a dish set for Muchiko. They really enjoyed them.
Sis Numazawa made us a nice Christmas dinner. We had chicken and most of the trimmings. Best I had here.
This evening we practiced at the Rodo Kaikan.
December 26, 1958
Today it rained very hard all day. We visited with Brothers Nakayama and Sagada and helped them with the planning of the M.I.A. Christmas party. Mr. Obata did come to keep his appointment. We went to a show this evening “Run of the Arrow” and “Fortune Soldier”.
December 27, 1958 Saturday
Today we made decorations for the Party this evening. We taught Mr. Watanabe a lesson on repentance. He hasn’t been studying; however, he promised and prayed that he would. He also paid for his Book of Mormon.
The Christmas Party this evening was wonderful.
I enjoyed it very much. The program was very well prepared. MIA put on a fashion show, Sunday School--a one act play (very good). Relief Society two Japanese dances. (Elder Marlowe and I danced in both.) There were games, dancing and trading of gifts. I received two little “kokeshi dolls.” Sister Kosaka got the baby rattle. It was very funny. She is the oldest woman in the whole branch.
Sunday December 28, 1958
We had a very poor attendance. I guess, we shouldn't have parties if nobody’s going to come to church. I was very disappointed. Sister Miyamoto did come and give her talk for Sacrament. During Priesthood we discussed Branch Teaching. Not too many have made their visits.
This evening we packed and got ready to go to Tokyo.
... We left for Tokyo on the 10:30 PM train. We took a sleeper.
Monday December 29, 1958
We arrived at Shibuya about six in the morning. I’ve been tired all day. This afternoon we played Waseda University and they beat us 62-100. It was a good game. Nobody was in shape. After dinner I went to the mission home and talked to Pres. Andrus about the Branch ... He told me to go ahead and see if I could rent the building for a year. Guess Pres. Andrus will transfer me sometime during January.
December 30, 1958 Tuesday
Report meeting was held at Tokyo South. It was good and several ideas were exchanged. Pres. Andrus was present and told us that we are failing as far as possibilities go. However, from the standpoint of the progress made over the years, this year was 300% better than the best year. There were over 700 baptisms this year. Pres. Andrus told us about a new law which will be passed next year. We need 2,000 new members and $30,000 for buildings to over come its effects.
Pres. Andrus exhorted us to be humble and with the Lord’s help we might be able to find one person a week who will accept the Gospel.
We planned on returning to Yamagata; however because of the crowds of people, we couldn’t even get into the train.
Wednesday December 31, 1958
We were at Ueno Station at 7:30 and there were so many people there to ride 3rd class, we decided to ride 2nd class and paid the difference which is customary. We got seats; however, we had to give them up because there were so many people that had 2nd class tickets. It was a good thing because a couple with two little (children) were standing and they went farther than we. We had to stand most of the way. When we got home, we both were worn out. Sato’s invited us to dinner and it was very good. They also had the kids dance and sing. It was very enjoyable.
January 1, 1959 Thursday
We got up quite late. Worked on Branch Records all day. I’m not nearly finished. Sister Nakamura came all dressed up in her kimono and hair do. I went to the Post Office to buy a money order only to find that It doesn’t open on Monday. This evening the MIA held a New Years Party here in our home. It was quite a lot of fun. About 22 people were out.
January 2, 1959 Friday
I worked on Branch Records again today. ...
January 3, 1959 Saturday
We had a cottage meeting scheduled with Mr. Watanabe, but he didn’t come. We went street tracting and made quite a few appointments; however nobody came. It’s quite discouraging at times. ...
January 4, 1959 Sunday
Jr. Sunday School wasn’t held because the Rodo Kaikan was closed and we had to hold the other meetings here at our quarters. There weren’t many present. There were only 19 members out for Testimony and Sacrament Meetings. We had an exceptionally good testimony (Meeting). Many strong testimonies were born and the Spirit was present in great abundance. Mr. Seino came at 5 o’clock and wanted a cottage meeting. He apologized for not coming Friday. We taught him a very good seventh lesson and the Spirit was so good that I interviewed him for baptism. We signed his baptismal application, however, he is only 19 years old; so we’ll have to get his parent’s approval. He surely has changed.
January 5, 1959 Monday
We taught Miss Kawai the second lesson and her reactions were positive. She believes that there is a God and that she is one of God’s children. After we finished teaching her, we sent the Branch Reports off to the Mission Office. We went to the prison and picked up my name cards. Lucky, they only had 1000 printed. We went to the show this evening. it was very enjoyable. “Living it Up” and ”Bridge on the River Kwai”
January 6, 1959 Tuesday
I received a telegram this morning from the Mission office. “Call Andrus on phone.”. I called and it was Elder Walker and he wanted to know where the reports were. I told him that when we got back from the Report Meeting at Tokyo the Bank was closed; also we couldn’t buy a money order until Monday. We sent the reports Monday; so he should get them today. He was very nice about it. The phone cost 200 yen. Went and got a haircut. Did a little tracting. I finished the tithing report and sent it to the Mission office. We attended Relief Society this evening. They discussed marriage. All felt that members should marry members. Tithing was also discussed.
January 7, 1959 Wednesday
We went street tracting and brought Mr. Takahashi back and taught him the first lesson. He said that he would like to study and we made an appointment for tomorrow. He did(n’t) take the Book of Mormon; so I have a doubt whether he’ll be back or not.
We went and saw about renting a house. We found out that they didn’t want to rent it. They only want to sell it. The realtor said he would look for another place. This evening Brother Suzuki and myself met and held a Branch Presidency Meeting. We discussed the new officers of the M.I. A., Sunday School and Jr., also Genealogy. We also discussed ways to improve the Branch.
January 8, 1959 Thursday
We got out early and tracted on the street. We met lots of men and made eight appointments. Only one came, Mr. Kuraoka. He was very interested in what we told him. He also answered all the questions. However, I couldn’t make a return appointment.
There were only five people out to our English class. We passed out quite a few tracts, too. I guess two holidays in a row isn’t very good. There were only 24 people out to M.I.A.
Friday January 9, 1959
We street tracted today, Not many men on the streets. I guess, its too cold. We made a few appointments; but none showed up. Mr. Komatsu came and paid us a visit. He told us not to come and see Sister Midera for awhile because her father was opposed to the church. He said that he would like to study and we made an appointment for next Tuesday. (Mr. Mizuno came and paid his tithing).
Saturday January 10, 1959
Today was a big market day here in Yamagata. We went down town to street tract; but found out most of the people in town were just in for the holiday. We passed out about 800 to 1000 map tracts. Sure hope someone comes out from them. Elder Marlowe and I bought some taffy like candy and while eating it, I pulled out a filling from my tooth. It cost me 180 yen to get it fixed back. This evening we held a very good meeting with Miss Seiko Kawai. She prayed that she would be able to be ready to be baptized on the 31st and that she could come to church from now on. She has been working on Sundays. She knew and believes the J.S.S.(Joseph Smith Story) and Plan of S. (Salvation).
January 11, 1959 Sunday
Mr. Seino bore a very strong testimony today during Sunday School. He couldn’t stay for Sacrament because of work at the bank. We have set his baptismal date for next Sunday. There were 19 members and 9 investigators out. I was very happy.
During Sacrament Meeting I set apart the following in their various offices. Nakayama Kentauke ,1st counselor in MIA; Ishitani, Chuzo, Pres. of Sunday School; Iwata, Ahiho (Akiko?), 1st Counselor of Jr. S. S.; and Suzuki, Goro as Pres of Genealogy. It was very humbling experience and I could feel the Spirit in every fiber of my body. I know this is God’s true church without a doubt.
January 12, 1959 Monday
I sent a money order off to the mission office for text books. Sister Yoshida came today and made some frosting for the spice cake I made. It was very good. Elder Marlowe and I went to the show “The Key.”
During the show Elder Marlowe lost his bicycle key and he had to walk home. Mr. Seino also came this evening before the show and brought the baptismal application.
January 13, 1959, Tuesday
We went street tracting for a while; however everyone seemed to be busy. Several would see us coming and walk across the street. It was so discouraging that we went house tracting and held two first meetings. They weren’t very good. We didn’t make any return appointment for either.
This evening we had a wonderful meeting with Mr. Seino. We discussed the Plan of Salvation and held a little testimony meeting which was very inspiring. The meeting had a wonderful spirit about it. I know that Mr. Seino will make a fine member. He is very humble and has a strong testimony.
January 14, 1959 Tuesday
We went tracting from house to house. People just don’t seem to want to hear us. One man told us to leave while we were just giving the tracting approach at the door. We taught one woman the first part of the J.S.S. because she told us that she just let us in because it was cold. Another woman said she couldn’t study our church because her grandaughter went to a different sect’s kindergarten. We taught English at the Culture Center again this evening.
Sister Numazawa has been sick since Sunday; so we had to eat out again this evening
January 15, 1959 Wednesday
Today was a Japanese holiday, adult day, that all young men and women who become 20 years of age are honored. We tried street contacting. Everybody said that they were too busy. We went house tracting to find it about the same. After tracting over two hours to no avail we gave it up.
I had to teach the Investigator’s class because Sister Numazawa is still sick.
January 16, 1959 Friday
We had two very good cottage meetings today. One was with Seino, Kiyomitsu and he has a very strong testimony. I taught him about the Plan of Salvation, and after we all bore our testimonies. There was a wonderful feeling and I know Mr. Seino will make a wonderful member. He even bore his testimony to Mr. Goto, who just came for his first meeting. I should have let Elder Marlowe teach, but I’ve been teaching along so long that I forgot. We taught Mr. Mizuno, Jun. his seventh lesson. I really don’t know how strong his testimony is. He said that he knows God lives and believed this is God’s true church; however, he didn’t know when he wanted to be baptized.
January 17, 1959 Saturday
It snowed very hard today. We didn’t get anything done. ...
Sister Numazawa asked us to administer to her. Elder Marlowe anointed (English) and I sealed the anointing and gave her a blessing. I sure hope she get better soon.
January 18, 1959 Sunday
Today started out on the bad side, but turned out to be a very wonderful day. ...
During Sacrament Meeting I set the following apart: Sister Adachi, Atsuko as Asst. Sec. in the Sr. S. S.; Brother Sagara,(Kenichi?), was sustained to be given the Priesthood. I set him apart as a Deacon during Priesthood Meeting.
I baptized Brother Seino, Kiyomitsu in Mamigasahi River. It was snowing and very cold. I sure pray we don’t get colds.
I already have a touch.
January 19, 1959 Monday
We didn’t get very much of anything done. I worked on reports. We taught Miss Kawai, Seiko the 4th lesson. She is obeying all the commandments except keeping the Sabbath Day Holy. I think she will be baptized in the near future.
Elder Marlowe and I went to show. I received a box of candy from Margene today. Its very good.
January 20, 1959 Tuesday
Sent the Monthly Reports to the mission home. Did(n’t) get any tithing forms; so they weren’t completed. I did send in a CR-1 form in their place. We went and got a haircut. Saw Yoshida Shimai as Sister Numazawa asked us. She came to Relief Society and brought some baked goods. She had Sister Suzuki give the lesson. ...
When I talked to Pres. Andrus in Dec., he said that I’d leave by the 15th. I gave a short talk in Relief Society.
January 21, 1959 Wednesday
I felt pretty rough. I have a very bad cold. Sure hope I can get rid of it in a hurry. I stayed in bed most of the day. This evening we didn’t go to teach English.
January 22, 1959 Thursday
I felt much better this morning. We went street contacting for about an hour. It wasn’t very good; so we went tracting. We held 7 good cottage meetings. Sold one Book of Mormon and lent another one. There weren’t very many out to M.I.A. I had to teach the investigators class.
January 23, 1959 Friday
Went tracting again; held four meetings. However, we didn’t make any return appointments. One woman bought a Book of Mormon; but she said that she wasn’t very interested at the present.
I received a telegram from the Mission Office, “Dewa wo yohose Andrus.” Call Pres. Andrus by phone. I called and he asked me to transfer to Otaru. Elder Barton from SLC, UT. will be the next Branch President here. I sure hope he doesn’t have any problems. These sisters are around the marriageable age ....
Sister Numazawa promised me not to tell I was being transferred; but she told. ...
January 24, 1959 Saturday
Our first meeting was with Mrs. Hachiya; she seemed to be very interested; however, when we got through she said that she didn’t believe there was a God and she gave me back the Book of Mormon. I was quite disappointed.
We tracted for a short time and then went to the Yamagata University to teach English. Mr. Fujii showed us around and he said that there wasn’t going to be any class held. I made an appointment with him for 5 o’clock and he came and we taught him a very good meeting.
January 25, 1959 Sunday
I told Brother Suzuki that I was going to be transferred to Otaru and he announced it during Sunday School. I told him, that I didn’t want any party. They don’t mind very well. I guess there will be some kind of a party this Tuesday. It makes me very sad to see women cry and all the nice things they said. It’s too bad I have to leave. Tonight we held the first Teachers Training class.
January 26, 1959 Monday
Filled out my Monthly reports and mailed them into the mission office. Miss Seiko Kawai did(n’t) come for her fifth cottage meeting. ...
Went to the bank and drew out my money. Elder Marlowe and I also had our pictures taken. I hope they turn out good. Went to a picture show, “To Hell and Back” and a cowboy show. Pretty good.
January 27, 1959 Tuesday
Received a telegram from Elder Barton saying he wouldn’t arrive until this evening.
I taught a Mr. Suzuki a 1st lesson. I had made an appointment earlier during the week, but he didn’t come. We taught him a very good lesson and he bought our last 300 yen Book of Mormon. He has a desire to study.
This evening the Yamagata members held a good bye party in my honor. It was very sad and humbling moment. I sure hate to leave this Branch; but I know that its best that I am going. The branch gave me a nice set of lacquer ware. Elder Barton arrived at 9:55 PM. I turned all Branch funds and equipment over to him. (There were 31 people out to the party.)
January 28, 1959 Wednesday
I left Yamagata this morning on the 9 o’clock train. There were about 15 people at the station to see me off. Sisters Numazawa, Yoshida and Brothers Nakayama and Sigara rode a ways with me. ....
I arrived Amori at 9 o’clock and had to wait until 12 before getting on the ferry. I went to buy something to eat. Sat down at one of the tables and the waiters had a little argument about which one of them was to serve me. None of them knew English. I finally got up and ordered in Japanese. You should have seen their faces when they found out I could speak Japanese. I got around 5 hours of sleep on the ferry before arriving at Hakodate.
Thursday January 29, 1959
I arrived at Otaru at 11o‘clock. I am worn out. Elder Dalton gave me the Branch Funds. This evening I had to speak during MIA. My talk was on our weakness. Ether 12:27. There weren’t very many present. |
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