Only twenty three days till I enter the MTC, and although I am excited to go I am sad to leave so many wonderful friends behind. I wanted to find a way to let them (and my extended family) know where I am and invite them to keep me updated, and since I most likely won't be able to send everyone emails, I thought this would be a good option. My sister Heidi agreed to post portions of my letters sent home on the blogger page as well my changing address. I'm lucky to have her and my mom to fill me in on whats going on at home.

I would like to hear from anyone who is willing to write. Although I will be working hard in the field, I will try to respond in some way. Thank you to everyone who has shown support and encouragement. Even though I already know that I am on the Lord's errand and He will be supporting me, it is such a great blessing to have kind and loving friends and family. Only heaven knows where I would be without all of them.

One of the things I have come to learn over the course of the past year is that I have so much growing to do! I have been surrounded by the most amazing individuals, and I have had the incredible opportunity to learn more about the lives and the teachings of the modern day prophets and apostles. The Quorum of the Twelve and the First Presidency are truly men of God and I am amazed by their willingness to dedicate their whole selves to the Lord. It is my hope and prayer that I can follow their living examples, as well as the example Christ has set for all man kind, over the next two years.

I am grateful for the opportunity I have had to go on Heritage Tours. I hope to always remember and cherish the moments that the spirit spoke to me and guided my thoughts to a greater understanding and testimony of the prophet Joseph Smith. I know he is a prophet of God.

For those you who might be reading this who have not come to know of the wonderful Plan of Happiness that Heavenly Father has for his children, I would like to invite you now, to learn of something that is among the most precious truths that has been revealed to men in these the latter-days.
Please visit www.lds.org or more specifically http://www.lds.org/plan/our-eternal-life?lang=eng
If you search these sources and the scriptures with an open heart, I PROMISE you, you will receive an answer if you are diligent. I know Heavenly Father answers prayers, and he is not only aware of who you are, but who you are capable of being, and who you have always been. He loves you.

I love you all and it is my hope and prayer that that love may increase as I strive to serve the Lord with all my heart, might, mind, and strength. May Heaven send angels to watch over you and lift you in your times of need.

Sincerely,

 Elder Bunker