Tag Archives: christianity

Sep. 1, 2025 – Celestial Demeanor and Temple Vision

Posted on by
Reply

In recent years before our service mission in Hawaii, Sister Hardman and I had developed the habit of attending the temple regularly, often weekly. Like many of you we were blessed to choose from several temples within a thirty-minute drive from our home in Utah. Serving ancestors and renewing our covenants does everything our prophets promise such service will do. We are deeply blessed. Sometimes in ways we hadn’t anticipated.

As mentioned in an earlier letter, the Saints on Maui do not yet have such convenience to temples. (The Kahului Hawaii Temple was announced nearly two years ago, but has not been started) The nearest operating temple is a thirty-minute flight and a sixty-minute drive, not to mention the normal travel and waiting times at airports and the cost. We admire and are strengthened by the faith of those who make this sacrifice. The next ‘ward temple trip’ is not for a month or so, so Sister Hardman and I made the trip to Oahu and the Hawaii Laie Temple this week. In addition to the words and spirit of the Endowment, we learned a beautiful lesson from two other patrons, a Polynesian couple. We were among the last to be seated and found ourselves in the back of the endowment room. The middle-aged brother next to me sensing I might have difficulty seeing and hearing (do I really look that old?) offered to move so that I could have a seat with better visibility. His expression was so sincere and genuine that I could hardly resist, but perhaps my pride got in the way and I politely thanked him and declined. “I’ll be okay,” I whispered. “Thank you… Mahalo.”

The word demeanor came to mind and during the session I thought about the demeanor of special people I have met in and out of the church, and in and out of the temple. Early in the session this brother moved to another seat that would allow me to scoot over a little to see the presentation better. Later in the celestial room while pondering the endowment and amazing blessings promised by Heavenly Father, we again observed this couple as they prayed together standing in a corner, and then as they kindly hugged the first-time patrons tearfully sitting on a white sofa in front of us. I don’t think they knew these fellow patrons but the aloha and love expressed in their unrushed hugs and in their eyes reflected in every way what I imagine to be a celestial demeanor. I reached for some scriptures which are always available around the temple and opened to Doctrine and Covenants 121 and reviewed the behavioral qualities of ‘righteous’ and ‘chosen’ people. “Persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned; By kindness, and pure knowledge, which shall greatly enlarge the soul without hypocrisy, and without guile…an increase of love…full of charity towards all men…” (D&C 121:42-45) “Thank you,” I thought, “Brother and Sister (whoever you are). I want to be more like you.”

Before returning to Maui I had always wanted to visit the BYU Hawaii campus so we drove around, asked some students where we might park and find the cafeteria, then soon found ourselves in a sea of new freshmen enjoying their meal at the fine buffet. We were surprised to run into two of our ward Sunday School girls who were there to start their first semester. While eating we also visited with two other service missionary couples who were serving. We walked around campus a little more, visited the science building, then drove around the north shore and back through the central valley to Honolulu. On the flight back we had a wonderful conversation with Tony, a gentleman on his way home to Atlanta by way of Maui and Las Vegas. There are always opportunities to lift. We hope our love and demeanor blessed him that day.

On Monday we completed our twelfth in-person session of Healing through the Savior – 12 Step Addiction Recovery Program. Recovery and sobriety is a life-long process so we will start the twelve steps over again next week. On Sunday we had spoken for the first time in one of the local wards and on Monday three new participants from that ward came to our support meeting. As usual there is a feeling of joy deep in our hearts as each person shows the faith and humility to come to the Savior and receive His love and power. Our group this week was a little larger than usual. Our hearts ache for the pain and challenge they experience, but at the same time our souls are anxious for the progress we hope they make in overcoming their addictions and moving toward making and keeping covenants with God including temple covenants. Following this week’s meeting Sister Hardman presented her freshly baked Excellent Cinnamon Rolls. After most of our guests left, one sister asked for a priesthood blessing. Elder Taylor and I visited with her and administered and she was blessed and invited to see her future self as the Savior sees her and to expect miracles in her life, including her vision to someday serve in the temple.

Sister Hardman and I invite all of you to pray for us and for the people we service. Pray that each will find grace and power in Christ and make progress in their recovery. Pray that the announced temple will complete it’s planning stages, begin construction, and give the Saints in Maui hope for God’s blessings to come even more close to them than ever before. And pray for each other, even those who ‘appear to be a little older,’ that we may all join in this great work as Senior Missionaries or Senior Service Missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The work blesses Sister Hardman and me, our relationship and our family, every day.

Aug. 25, 2025 – Meditation and Moloka’i

Posted on by
Reply

“He walked on the water; even if but for a moment.” We spoke these words at our addiction recovery support group last night as we studied together, Healing through the Savior, Step 11. Each of our guests had just shared some hopes, setbacks, and successes regarding their addictions. At the end we bore our testimony that Jesus knows and understands through his Atonement (Alma 7:11-13). “Jesus honors efforts of faith;” I said, “even if we stumble.” Or in the case of Peter, a miracle happened as he walked on the water; even if but for moment.” A few days before, Joan and I studied Step 11, “Seek through prayer and meditation to know the Lord’s will and to have the power to carry it out.” After study we visited Maui’s sacred Iao Valley and ascended to the Iao Needle viewpoint. Desiring to improve my meditation habits I asked Joan, “What is your favoring New Testament scene?” She replied, “Jesus walking on the water.” I tapped my phone and opened to Mathew 14 and we quietly read the story. “The ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with the waves: for the wind was contrary…Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea… [the disciples saw him and] were troubled…Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water (an amazing verbal act of faith by a fisherman). And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water…” Growing up I usually focused on Peter being “afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.” But for sure, he walked on the water; even if but for a moment. Jesus clearly did not give up on Peter; both of them were well aware of the dangers of the sea, but Jesus honored his effort and momentary success, “And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him…” At Iao, we walked down the many steps to the river where we walked on; no, we waded out into the water, sat on a large boulder, reflected and enjoyed each other’s company. To our friends last night in addiction recovery we testified of our Lords honoring of our attempts at faith and will save us when we fall. In my soul I learned more about the power of meditation on the word of God, a sacred experience.

On Sunday, under bright morning stars we boarded the Cessna 208 then flew northwest over the ocean along the world’s highest sea cliffs above the Moloka’i north coast. As the sun rose behind us we began our descent over the historic Kalaupapa peninsula and landed on the plateau at Ho’olehua airport. Bishop Bush greeted us with enthusiastic aloha and took us to the two-ward meetinghouse on the south shore in Kaunakakai. We were there to speak in both sacrament meetings and to provide information about the addiction recovery program. During a ward council meeting I got nervous because everyone seemed soft spoken and I couldn’t hear anything (my ears had not adjusted from the flight). I focused on lips, I leaned forward to hear better, I leaned backwards to capture sound bouncing off the white painted cinderblock wall, I yawned and poked at my jaw and ears; nothing worked. “How will I know if he calls on me to speak?” I prayed for my hearing to be restored. An hour and a half into the meeting I could hear well enough to understand what everyone was saying and sure enough was invited to share our message. We encouraged all ward leaders to counsel with and invite members who could benefit by the addiction recovery program. We left manuals and bulletin board posters with information.

It was a spiritual delight to attend both ward sacrament meetings where we sat on the stand, looked into the eyes of beautiful saints, partook of the sacrament and worshiped, sang to them, “My Shepherd Will Supply My Need,” (LDS Hymn 1014), gave our talks, and felt a great spirit of love. We spoke of our own parents and their advocacy for us while growing up and then testified of Jesus Christ as our advocate with the Father. President Kaaa of the stake presidency followed with his testimony and encouragement for the addiction recovery program. Between and after meetings we attended Priesthood or Relief Society meeting, met many members in the foyer, some of which shared their success stories of the Savior helping them heal and are now whole and serving in the church. It was inspiring. “It is real! It is real,” expressed one of the members. Others expressed the need, either for themselves or someone they love to receive the Saviors healing. We also met with the senior missionary couple who are our counterparts on Molokai. One good brother who had experienced significant repeated healing from addiction presented us with special Leis which we wore throughout the day. After our meetings this brother took us on a small tour of the local town and then up to the Kalaupapa Overlook at 2000 feet elevation so we could see and read the posted plaques about the former leper colony down below. It was very windy on the cliff but we felt of the sacredness of the special place below. (Read a brief Wikipedia summary of early Maui church member Jonathan Napela who lived, served, and died at Kalaupapa).

On our way to the airport our guide and new friend stopped to minister to a member of the Ward. Like many homesteads on Molokai, they are old and difficult to maintain. It’s clear that on Molokai there is very limited prosperity and water. We visited this good sister who was lonely but faithful. We heard some of her story then asked if she had a favorite hymn. “I am a Child of God,” she replied. So, before we left, with a picture of the Savior and the Laie Temple behind her on the wall we all sang the first verse together. We prayed, hugged, and left with a longing and loving spirit. It was a sweet experience. We made it to the airport just in time to board and make the beautiful flight back to Maui along the same route we came that morning.

Week 19 – August 11 – Our first trip to the island of Lana’i

Posted on by
2

I was afraid I might get sea sick on the way to Sacrament Meeting! We rose very early on Sunday and though greeted by a beautiful calm east sky surrounding Haleakala, as we pulled onto the Maalaea dock we were greeted by boulders that had been thrown from the sea into the parking area. We navigated around them on the saturated road and soon learned why they were there. Suddenly an especially large wave broke the peaceful morning and burst over the concrete barrier sending water high into the sky. “We are experiencing a ‘south swell’” the ship crew later told us as we boarded the passenger ferry for Lana’i. The ship was tossed and heaving as we took our seats but became more steady as we departed for the open sea.

On board there were four fire-men passengers going to their three-day shift on Lana’i. One of them, recognizing us by our Sunday clothing and missionary badges befriended us and we engaged in delightful conversation about the Gospel and our work in Addiction Recover support for most of the one-hour trip. “D. Kamalani” it read on his uniform. He was very friendly asking about us and telling about himself and his family. In addition to fire-fighting, David is a sports trainer and author, originally from the islands but living mostly in St. George, Utah where he and his wife raised their family. Like everyone we talk to, David was grateful to hear of the work we are doing for those who suffer from addiction. We exchanged contact information and expressed hope to interact again. (see picture) I occasionally gazed out the window at the ocean and was impressed with how large the swells and valleys were made by ocean currents and overall water movement. The sea seemed alive. Fortunately, no sea sickness!

Getting off the boat at Lana’i we immediately recognized a gentleman in white shirt and tie, Brother Sproat, a member of the branch presidency greeted us warmly and then took us for a one-hour tour of the island in his well-used Toyota Tundra. He stopped the truck at a road-side monument (see picture) giving tribute to the Palawai Pioneers, Hawaiian latter-day saints who attempted a colony there in the 1850’s. He then took us to a view point of the north side including “shipwreck beach” where a large World War II concrete hull tanker ship was run aground and abandoned. In Lana’i City (the word City is a stretch), we arrived at the little chapel where we were greeted with enthusiasm by the missionaries, Sister Watanabe (from Texas) and Sister Salem (from the Philippian’s). We gave them the whiteboard and water bottle sent with us by other missionaries which they received with as much gratitude as though they were receiving their first copy of the Book of Mormon. With grateful surprise we were served breakfast then greeted by branch leaders and members before Sacrament Meeting.

Just before services started, we met Sister Sproat who we had been told could play the piano. We gave here the sheet music to the song we planned to sing, she stepped to the piano, and began to play it as prelude. Yep, she was the right one to accompany us. During the meeting we sang, “My Shepherd Will Supply My Need,” (Hymn 1014) and felt the Spirit especially during the last verse which we sang A Capella.

The sure provisions of my God attend me all my days.

O may Thy house be mine abode and all my work be praise!

There would I find a settled rest while others go and come—

No more a stranger nor a guest but like a child at Home.”

“When it was our turn to speak, we gave our prepared talks on Jesus Christ as our Advocate with the Father. Joan talk a little about us and introduced our topic. At the end of my message I felt so much love that it was natural to conclude with, “I know we are strangers, but I love you…”

We remained for the second hour where we were given time to show branch members how to find church online resources for addiction recovery. We also attended the weekly branch mission council and were impressed with how many branch members were engaged in the work; clearly the members and the missionaries are well-coordinated. Later we were served lunch which we enjoyed while getting to know the sister missionaries better. They shared all about themselves and their families and their enthusiasm for the work. Brother Sproat loaned us the Tundra. He said the keys were in it and it was available to anyone who needed it. So we took the opportunity to visit the famous cat sanctuary on the island. Sister Hardman was thrilled to hold, and be surrounded by hundreds of her fury friends, kittens, middle-aged, and senior cats. (Due to the therapeutic experience, we are considering recommending cats for Step 13 of the addiction recovery program.)

As our return ferry experience got closer I became nervous again, “What if I get sea-sick? The ocean is always rougher in the afternoon.” We sat in comfortable seats toward the center of the boat, I plugged some music in my ears, closed my eyes and was distracted for the journey back. Phew! No sea-sickness! At Maui, the ‘south swells’ were still big. The crew directed us carefully off the boat, one-by-one down the ramp. We waded through the still drenched parking lot to our car, tried to remove the thick salt spray from our windshield, then drove home. We agreed, “The entire experience was a magical missionary day.”

We concluded the week reflecting on the blessings and changes that come as we interact with people who bless our lives. Earlier in the week we enjoyed Sister Hardman’s cookies and the company of our missionary friends Elder and Sister Taylor admiring a beautiful sunset (see picture) and rise of the full moon over Haleakala. On Saturday, we took time at the sacred Pulehu chapel to play music and to read Elder George Q. Cannon’s journal. Very inspiring! While there, the Pukalani Relief Society arrived to have an activity. We helped them set up and were invited to stay for the event. It was joyful as they are very special people. Their final activity was to learn a hula dance under the giant Jacaranda Tree to the music of Moana, which Sister Hardman and I joined in. (see picture)

On Monday evening, with choice brothers and sisters attending Healing through the Savior, we studied Step 9 of the addiction recovery program. Step 9 is about restitution to persons harmed by our addictions. As we read of Alma and the Sons of Mosiah who went about, “zealously striving to repair…” (Mosiah 27:35) the damage they had caused, and later of Alma teaching his sons to “acknowledge [their] faults…” (Alma 39:12-13), we felt the mercy and power of the Saviors Atonement and “immediate redemption…” (Alma 34:31-32) that can come “as we prepare to meet God.” We have been very blessed this week.

Week 16 – July 21 – Some notes on God, love, mercy, and joy

Posted on by
Reply

Each week on Maui, we look forward to Mondays when we conduct Addiction Recovery Program (ARP) support meetings. Each gathering is an hour of compassion and learning as we are blessed to feel a touch of the Saviors love for each person, and for ourselves. At the conclusion of each meeting, the service missionaries are invited to bear testimony of how the Atonement of Jesus Christ has blessed or healed them personally. On Tuesdays we typically write our weekly letter. This week’s letter is a bit personal but will give the reader some idea of the prayer, study and thought we go through to prepare for bearing personal testimony of Healing through the Savior.

On some days we refresh ourselves by taking a walk in the white sand like along Keawakapu Beach in south Kihei, or through the Iao Stream below the historic Iao Needle. God’s creations, his children and this earth, features and motion, are beautiful. Mid-week, as ARP Group Leaders, we start studying the next step in the twelve steps. We personally benefit from these studies as the principles of faith, repentance, accountability, healing and spiritual awakening are needed by all whether struggling with addiction, compulsive behavior, pains or shortcomings. (We are thinking more and more that ARP as a masterclass in personally applying the Atonement of Jesus Christ.)

Prayerfully anxious to apply principles to my own weaknesses or burdens, and while hiking from the base to the top of our neighborhood Wailuku Heights, a general conference message prompted the thought, “I need to start at the base, the foundational commandments, and work my way up. Then I’ll find the answers to my questions and comfort regarding burdens.” At the time of the prompting I may have been listening to, “The Great Commandment—Love the Lord,” by President Ezra Taft Benson (General Conference, April 1988). President Benson said, “Why did God put the first commandment first? Because He knows that if we truly loved Him we would want to keep all of His other commandments…” Later I searched for scriptures and for talks on the ‘great commandments,’ and chose two.

That day on our way to the Hoapili trailhead and ancient lava flow (see pictures), we listened to, “The Love of God,” by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf (General Conference, Oct. 2009), and “Bridging the Two Great Commandments,” by Elder Gary E. Stevenson (General Conference, April 2024). These were a great help. President Uchtdorf taught, “Because love is the great commandment, it ought to be at the center of all and everything we do in our own family, in our Church callings, and in our livelihood. Love is the healing balm that repairs rifts in personal and family relationships. It is the bond that unites families, communities, and nations. Love is the power that initiates friendship, tolerance, civility, and respect. It is the source that overcomes divisiveness and hate. Love is the fire that warms our lives with unparalleled joy and divine hope…”

I find ‘divine hope’ each time I show love for Him by reading his word. I was anxious as I recently approached my next chapter, Alma 32, to read again about planting and nourishing the seed of faith as described by Alma. As anticipated it was a wonderful refresh on faith and truth and knowing what is good. What I didn’t expect was how much meaning I would find in the very next chapter, Alma 33. (I think God knows what we need and when we are ready for it and then when we pray, He prompts our reading schedule accordingly.) A few days later I read Alma 33 again. Being focused on my concerns, I had prayed for Heavenly Fathers help that, like others in need of healing, I too would progress more intentionally in my faith in the Atonement of Jesus Christ and receive healing more fully and joy more regularly. I carefully read, and He answered. I slowed down and re-read each verse. The following phrases stood out as if to me personally.

“Thou wast merciful when I prayed…” (verse 4-10) “Thou didst hear me because of mine afflictions and my sincerity, and it is because of thy Son…for in thee is my joy…” (v. 11) I wondered if the Lord was disappointed with my lack of faith when I read Alma quoting Zenos, “For behold, he said: Thou art angry, O lord, with this people, because they will not understand thy mercies which thou hast bestowed upon them because of thy Son.” (v. 16) I thought, am I not believing enough? And then, “Behold, he was spoken of by Moses; yea, and behold a type was raised up in the wilderness, that whosoever would look upon it might live…” Some looked, others didn’t. “Now the reason they would not look is because they did not believe that it would heal them.” (v. 19-20) Do I really believe Christ can heal me?

As a good engineer, I diagramed in my journal what I was learning. And then I read the final verse, Alma 33:23, and discovered that the Lord provided a perfect summary already (brackets and emphasis added). “And now, my brethren, I desire that ye shall [plant this word in your hearts], and as it [beginneth to swell] even so [nourish it by your faith]. And behold, [it will become a tree,] [springing up in you] unto [everlasting life]. And [then may God grant] unto you that [your burdens may be light], [through the joy of his Son]. And even [all this can ye do if ye will]. Amen.” (Alma 33:23)

I need to love God and my fellow brothers and sisters with all my heart, believe in His mercies through His Son, feel the swelling joy, nourish it by faith even amidst challenges, let it and feel it grow into many branches toward everlasting life, and then let the joy of his Son lighten my burdens and brighten my hope. I do love Him. And yes, the Atonement of Jesus Christ has and will continue to bless our lives.

As a footnote, with our prior trek and pioneer music background, we conducted a Hoedown in our Kahului home ward (see pictures). It was fun singing, telling stories and calling dances like the heel-toe Polka and Virginia Real. After the hoedown we took a red-eye flight to Utah where over the next few days we visited and played with grandkids, celebrated our daughters birthday, and prepare for the sealing of our oldest grandson. (More on the wedding next week.)

Week 15 – July 14 – Jesus Christ walks these halls

Posted on by
Reply

Stopped into Walmart this week; we don’t remember why. Perhaps it was to meet a fellow missionary from another faith, Aleka (see photo), A sweet lady who motioned us to sit with her so she could spread the word about God. We had a delightful conversation and wished her well in pointing people to Christ. We attended the multi-stake Pioneer Day chili cookoff and pioneer exhibits activity. We’re getting to know more members and guests including these delightful sister missionaries (see photo). On Sunday we spoke in the Wailuku Ward about Jesus Christ as our Advocate, and sang My Shepherd Will Supply My Need. It always feels wonderful to sing about the Savior while connecting worshipful eyes with others through music. On Monday with other volunteers we served at the Maui Food Bank (see photos) filling 900 boxes for distribution across three islands. Later that day we conducted our weekly Addiction Recovery Program (ARP) support meeting. It has been a fulfilling week with study and service. For the rest of this letter may I again make comparisons with ancient times, earlier latter-days missionaries, and our experiences today?

It is painful to learn of the difficulties and setbacks of God’s children. Nevertheless, when we have the courage to trust Him and repent and to keep doing his will amidst opposition, then darkness and pain is turned into light and joy. In the Book of Mormon, Enos said, “my guilt was swept away.” (Enos 1:6) Alma the younger exclaimed, “I could remember my pains no more; yea, I was harrowed up by the memory of my sins no more. And oh, what joy, and what marvelous light I did behold; yea, my soul was filled with joy as exceeding as was my pain…” (Alma 36:19-21)

In our service in Gods kingdom in the latter-days, there are also difficulties and spiritual setbacks. Yet, when we trust Him and go forward centered in Christ, joy emerges. In 1852 here on Maui, a year and a half into their missionary labors, Elder George Q. Cannon and his companions had experienced much trial, opposition, and setbacks; nevertheless, his trust in God was inspiring. Finally, after a year, his first hopeful contact Jonathan Napela accepted baptism and they began translating the Book of Mormon. Hundreds had already been baptized and following one of the first church conferences near ‘Iao Valley, Wailuku (walking distance from our apartment), an amazing miracle was performed causing Elder Cannon to compare his feelings with the prior year, and tried to express his gratitude and joy.

“A person that they had been called upon to baptize, had been crawling for five years not able to walk upright; she was believing and three of them went to pray with her that she might be restored—afterwards they commanded her in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to arise and walk—she immediately stood up and walked and they afterwards baptized her—those who saw her were astonished at it & several came into the Church at the same time. They seemed to be filled with the spirit while dilating upon it and upon the marvelous power of the Lord as manifested in the Church in these days. I was so full that language was too faint to attempt to describe my feelings, I could not talk; this was felt by Brother Uaua also. When I compared my present feelings with the feelings experienced by me this time last year in this place, and I looked at the progress of the work and the power of my Father that accompanied it; I felt that the goodness of the Lord was adorable and past describing. This day has been one of my feast days, a day that gives the soul food for reflection for some time and is not with its reminiscences easily erased from the memory.” (The Journals of George Q. Cannon, Hawaiian Mission, 1850-1854, pg. 172)

In our 2025 Addiction Recovery Program mission on Maui, we are meeting people who are or were in bondage to addiction. Like Elder Cannon, there are situations that seem bleak, painful and without hope. But just having them show up at their first recovery support meeting is an amazing miracle. As Sister Hardman and I strive to put our trust in God and keep our view centered in the Atonement of Jesus Christ we see our new friends in a much more loving and hopeful light. We are granted and motivated by the pre-joy that Jesus felt as expressed by the apostle Paul, “who for the joy that was set before [Christ] endured the cross…” (Hebrews 12:2) We have every confidence that our friends are loved. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life…” (John 3:16-17) We feel His love for our friends.

At the end of our ARP meeting this week I prayed in my heart to know what the Lord would have me say in my testimony. Step 5 is the topic of Confession. I bore testimony of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, emphasizing trusting God with our confession and trusting our Savior with the ability to help and give us power to overcome. I noted that even in our youthful perhaps small mistakes we need to turn to the Savior less our small sins turn into patterns toward larger behavioral mistakes and then to addictions to try to cover our pain. I spoke of my parents who were probably embarrassed when I got into childhood mischief but noted their love and confidence in helping me. I testified that God is a loving Heavenly Father who doesn’t feel shame but gives us love and opportunities to learn and grow and repent. Like spiritually connecting through music in sacrament meeting, spiritually connecting through these words of love and testimony during the ARP meeting witnessed to us that Gods love was present. As we have heard addicts say about their recovery even while in prison, “Jesus Christ walks these halls.”

Week 14 – July 7 – Practice what we preach

Posted on by
Reply

(Personal! But okay to share)

“A miracle happens each time you walk through that door.” Words like these came from my mouth as we started this week’s Addiction Recovery Program (ARP) support group meeting. I continued sincerely, “The Savior takes from our hearts and minds any criticism or judgement. In fact this is evidence that this is his work and he is with us all.” Looking into their eyes I spoke the truth, “We feel nothing but love, compassion, and gratitude that you are here.” Each pair of eyes in the room looked back with love and trust. And so we began another confidential and safe, “Healing through the Savior” meeting.

As prescribed by church materials, Sister Hardman and I conduct the meeting, welcome guests, set some expectations and then all who wish take turns reading from the guide book. We first read the title of each of the 12 Steps of recovery, then we continue taking turns reading the study material for one of the 12 steps. After that, our facilitator, a person who is in recovery, guides the ‘sharing’ portion of the meeting where each is given an opportunity to share about their recovery. These are often very inspiring, especially as they bear testimony of the Saviors power and role in their success. As the service missionaries, we conclude with “our testimony of the Church, of the ARP, and of the Savior and His Atonement.”

In order to do this, that is bear personal testimony of the ARP and the Savior’s Atonement in our lives, Sister Hardman and I have been studying the 12 steps during our personal time, individually and together. This was our fourth session so we were on Step 4. In the first three steps we honestly admit our inability to overcome some things on our own, that we need the power of God to restore us to spiritual health, and that we need to turn our will and lives to the care of God and Jesus Christ. These are very powerful principles to build our faith and step us forward. In Step 4 we perform a searching and fearless moral inventory of our lives, past and present to help us start our recovery from a position of truth, knowing what has occurred in our lives bringing us to where we are today. As an example, I applied it to some character traits I really want and need to improve, behaviors that cause me to be less than I know I want to be, or reactions that impede success in my cherished relationships.  I chose pride, specifically impatience, taking offense and being judgmental as the character weakness of focus.

I first wanted to understand better how the twelve steps relate to each other so as any good engineer might do, I summarized them on a mind map or diagram (see picture), while reading scripture references for each. With the big picture in mind I then dove into Step 4 praying and writing, looking for situations or events in my life that may have contributed to learning bad behavioral habits and how they might be triggered presently. It was difficult and sometimes painful but like Nephi who exclaimed, “O wretched man that I am! Yea, my heart sorroweth because of my flesh… I am encompassed about, because of the temptations and the sins which do so easily beset me…” I pressed on with, “I know in whom I have trusted. My God hath been my support; he hath led be through mine afflictions…” (2 Nephi 4:17-19)

I considered events from early in my life to later, from home, family, school, church, and other social interactions. Sure enough, I stuck with the prayerful process and some events and habits and patterns emerged (which I won’t relate here). I considered fears that may have invited unhealthy defense behaviors, and false beliefs that may have contributed to those fears and found a number of things I can focus on, including spiritual things to remove barriers to recovery. As I understand it, the purpose of all this is to move forward with more thorough repentance (Steps 5-9), accountability, personal revelation, continue to seek and receive the Lord’s power, and serve or help others do the same (Steps 10-12.) I’ve experience enough so far to be very confident that in time I too can be ‘Healed through the Savior’ of my persistent weaknesses as I implement those principles and commandments and covenants that will enable his power in my life, the power of Christ. This process is showing us more specifically how to Come unto Him, and to listen to latter-day prophets. For example, President Nelson has encouraged us to study the Atonement of Jesus Christ regularly. This counsel now resonates with power in my heart.

“I’m in this process with you,” I said at the end of this week’s ARP support meeting. I was able to bear testimony that the process points us to the Savior including specifics from his life, example, teachings, commandments and promises. “For me, the process pointed me to studying more deeply and regularly the Atonement of Christ and his grace. The lack of more understand has contributed to fears resulting in impatience with others, mis-judgement, and my taking offense. “I know we can be guided to receive his power, specific power to help us overcome or recover.” Our meeting ended as it started, feeling nothing but love, compassion, and gratitude for everyone present, and the Gospel of Jesus Christ that gives such hope.

Independence Day – This past week, to celebrate Independence Day we enjoyed a concert at the ‘Shops at Wailea,’ a fun Hawaiian group called Nuff Sedd (genre: Reggae). We then went to a highly popular (think island traffic jam) July 4th off-shore fireworks celebration at the beach of the Grand Wailea. The fireworks shot from a barge surrounded by observing sailing vessels were fantastic, and the reflection out over the ocean was really cool.

Week 13 – June 30, – Trust in God

Posted on by
Reply

Each day this past week we took time to prepare for upcoming assignments, and to care for ourselves spiritually, physically, and emotionally. We exercise, write and sing about the beauties of life (song: Life Surrounds), walk on beaches or piers, wade through the Iao Stream, admire God’s hand in the infinitely varying sunsets above the ocean, and meandering turtles below. On one evening while reading on the beach, a large seal parted the waves, crawled up the beach and drew a large crowd. The look in his eyes was, “It’s been a long journey. I’m tired. Leave me alone.” On another occasion Joan found a sleeping turtle on a small beach with a rock on the center of his shell. It is illegal to touch a turtle, but Joan felt compassion, tiptoed through the sand, and removed the rock. Then received a wink from the turtle that seemed to say, “Thank you.”

We prepared and practice a sacred hymn in a sacred place. We prepared an overview and testimony of the addiction recovery program which we then presented three times on Sunday (5th Sunday combined adult meetings) rushing to three different meetinghouses, on three different parts of the island. Our presentation included a tender review of Alma 7:11-12, a scripture that President Dallin H. Oaks said, “is the single clearest of all the scriptures on this essential power of the Atonement…” (Oaks, Strengthened by the Atonement of Jesus Christ, Oct. 2015) During the presentation we set a spiritual tone by singing the duet we had prepared, “My Shepherd Will Supply My Need,” (new Hymn 1014) while accompanying ourselves with violin and guitar. These were special moments for us and judging by expressions and spirit, special for the members. We reviewed church online resources with them, bore testimony of the power of the Savior to assist us in our needs, and with love invited them to invite others who could benefit from the program.

During this week’s support meeting several new people came. We focused on Step-3, “Decide to turn our wills and our lives over to the care of God, The Eternal Father, and His Son, Jesus Christ.” The basic principle is to Trust in God. The spirit was there, and we did our best conducting the meeting, discussing the principles, and bearing testimony at the end. However, as is too common for me (an addiction of pride), I doubted my effectiveness, wondering what I could’ve done differently or conveyed better for these beautiful, humble people. (I noticed that I was in need of the very principle we were teaching, that is: Trust in God).

As noted previously, Joan and I are reading, “The Journals of George Q. Cannon, Hawaiian Mission, 1850-1854). In 1851 Elder Cannon set out from Lahaina to live among the Hawaiian people in order to help him learn the language and convey the Gospel more effectively. Similarly, Joan and I occasionally set out to learn local history (we went to the Wailuku museum this week) and we read about Elder Cannon’s experiences with the people so that we might understand their culture and be more effective sharing the Savior’s message and healing power. On one occasion after struggling to preach in their language, in anxiousness Cannon wrote, “I felt very much depressed after this meeting, it seems a hard business to explain things. When will I be so that I can do justice to the principles of which I am the bearer?” On another occasion, speaking of his prayer to the Lord for help obtaining the language he said, “If I did not know that he would order everything for the best, I should be tempted to be discouraged.” (pg. 89) About the time of his first convert baptisms he wrote, “I have not felt the spirit of the Lord more… than I did this afternoon, and the people felt it… I had been enabled by his spirit to explain some things to the people few as they were that I had been sent to teach…” (pg. 95)

At our addiction support meeting the subject was Trust in God, and so having done our best to prepare and trust in him to execute the evening as he and his inspired resources prescribed, like Elder Cannon I should have had trust that “he would order everything for the best” that our best preparations and his process would work in the lives of those specific children of God who attended. Instead, I came home not feeling rest, but burden, the burden of self-doubt and self-criticism, whereas I should’ve taken his yoke upon me, not just words, but with full trust so that I might feel of his rest (Matthew 11:28-30) and not be burdened by the pride that was driving my unrest, the pride of wondering what I could’ve done differently or how I could’ve executed it differently (I notice the word “I” too much in the last sentence; pride). Sister Hardman and I made our best efforts. We studied, we prayed, we prepared. And in the session, we loved, we read, we discussed, and we carried out the class. And judging by the faces present many were touched and many felt sincere and good feelings. We have confidence that many are feeling more power in Christ. We take to the Lord our best offering, and He makes something beautiful.

Week 12 – June 23 – Hastening with Patience

Posted on by
Reply

We often hear that the Lord is “hastening his work,” (Nelson, Oct. 2024) and he certainly is. However, is seems that even when we “anxiously engage in a good cause” (D&C 58:27) there are often delays or disappointments requiring patience. Although minor, such has been true for us. But perhaps they are only setbacks from our perspective. The spirit whispers that this is His work and it may take a little time for us or others to prepare or get organized in the way he needs us to be. In his infinite perspective and wisdom, it may take a little time for people (including us), and things to get in place in order for us and the people we meet to receive and accomplish the Lords hastening work.

It was December 19, 1850 when Elder George Q. Cannon first set foot in Lahaina. He and his companions having been seasick through much of their journey from California to Oahu and then to Maui, the ‘bucket’ seemed a constant companion. (My heart goes out to them for I too am susceptible to motion sickness.) “I felt more feelings of despondency than I had done since I left home, “Elder Cannon wrote. “I felt that it was a great trial and cross to go to a foreign nation and preach the gospel.” After finding a suitable place to stay, he mastered his feelings and they got “busily engaged” in their work. The work did not come easy and many disappointments set them back including language barriers. “I feel a great anxiety to be able to talk with them and impart unto them the glorious truths of which we are the bearers…” After a while, when some of the missionaries became discouraged, felt they were wasting time, and decided to go home, Elder Cannon sought for revelation in prayer. “Every time I had prayed to the Lord that there might be a good work done here I had felt my bosom warm and felt the spirit continually whispering to me if I should persevere I should be blest…” He persevered, worked hard to learn the language, and then set out for a great work on Maui. (The Journals of George Q. Cannon, Hawaiian Missions, Ch. 1-2)

We too have had some delays getting things in order for the work we have been called to do. But in hindsight, that month or two waiting for this or that may have been needed for people (including us), and things to get in place, physically, emotionally and spiritually. After two months of studying the language and attempts at preaching in Lahaina, Elder Cannon wrote, “I have been thinking…to strike out tomorrow on a tramp round the Island, my desire to learn the language is the principle reason. I want also to see the situation of things at different parts of the Island…” In a similar spirit, Sister Hardman and I have been ‘tramping’ around the Island, visiting, getting acquainted with “the situation of things,” and recently under direction of stake and ward leaders, getting to know the saints, sharing a message about Jesus Christ as our Advocate, and putting in place the foundation for inviting participants to the Addiction Recovery Program (ARP). 

Sunday we started at the Kihei 1st Ward invited by very capable Bishop Maetani to acquaint his ward council with the resources provided by the church to help those with addiction or compulsive behaviors. With scriptures we counselled together on how coming unto Christ blesses us with power and grace to be perfected in him. (Moroni 10:32) In the same ward, Sister Hardman and I spoke in sacrament meeting and told of advocates in our lives, especially our parents, and then bore testimony of Jesus Christ, our advocate with the Father. “Having ascended into heaven, having the bowels of mercy; being filled with compassion towards the children of men; standing betwixt them and justice…” (Mosiah 15:9). Stake President Kelii Wunder was also in attendance and bore his testimony of these principles. We had a similar opportunity across the island in the Waiehu ward council. Our meetings concluded Sunday in our home ward, Kahului 1st Ward where we had been invited to sing a musical number in sacrament meeting. We sang, “My Shepherd Will Supply My Need,” (Hymn 1014). We practiced a lot and felt it was a contribution to the spirit of the meeting.

Because of these ongoing visits to the wards, we were blessed to welcome the next day a good number of new participants to the ARP support meeting, Healing through the Savior. We felt we were on sacred ground as with more than a dozen participants we read through Step 2 of the 12-steps, discussed the principles, then listened to each person tell their story of hope. Attendees include addicts, spouses of addicts, supporters and people wanting to learn. “I need this too,” I shared as part of my closing testimony. “There are things I want and need to improve but can’t seem to do it on my own. I too need the Saviors help, power, and grace.” I ponder a lot, how this is done. How do I enable the power of Christ to help me overcome things I can’t seem to do on my own? Part of the answer seems to be in understanding my relationship with him, and how he feels for me and advocates for me, and each of you. At the last minute I felt prompted to recite my testimony with the group in words I had compiled in a song last year. Many of you have already heard it. To emphasize our personal relationship, I wrote it as a duet, a personal conversation between Jesus and me, or any one of his followers. It is called, “For the Joy Set Before Me.”

Even with great tensions in the world, we concluded our week feeling Gods love for all of his children. The Lord is hastening his work.

Week 11 – June 16 – Hosting our first support meeting

Posted on by
Reply

After weeks preparing and promoting throughout the two stakes on Maui, we held our first Healing through the Savior, 12-Step Addiction Recovery Program support meeting. As we’ve traveled and met with leaders and members of the Church, they always nod appreciatively and with tender confirmation, “That is really needed here,” followed by a humble or passionate, “Thank you for doing this.” On a recent flight we conversed at length with a stranger, a part time resident who expressed these same things. Some have indicated that Covid-19 shut down in-person 12-step meetings. Others say the recent Lahaina fires and devastation contributed to an increase in addictive behaviors. Since the program is safe and anonymous, we will never tell names or specifics in our writings about participants, however to share our spiritual enthusiasm and increase awareness, we may share our personal application of the 12 steps to our own weaknesses and shortcomings. And since no ‘sign-up’ is required and no roll is taken, we had no way of knowing how many would come to the meeting, except by the often-heard statements, “I’m going to encourage my [relative] or [friend] to come,” and “My people are good people. Some of them just have bad habits.” Bishops and missionaries often tell us they have people whom they will encourage to participate.

Turnout at our first meeting was good. In addition to Sister Hardman and myself and our excellent ‘facilitator,’ we had those who were struggling with some kind of addiction, and we had those who came for awareness and healing because someone they love is struggling with a destructive behavior. We also had those who have been sober for decades but came to strengthen their own ongoing recovery and provide support to others. After doing our best to give Christ-like love as each person entered the room, we had a prayer, talked about resources available to them on the Church website, and then we took turns reading from the 12-steps in the guidebook. The text is honest, loving, and inspiring, written by recovering addicts who have found Healing through the Savior. I’ll share my personal experience with the text shortly. During our first meeting, after reading and discussing Step 1, our facilitator, also a recovering addict, shared about her experience, then invited each participant to share encouraging them to focus on their recovery and not on the graphic details of their behavior or the behavior of others. There were tears of burden and tears of hope. When the sharing was completed, Sister Hardman and I bore our testimonies of the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ in ourlives. Then the meeting closed with prayer. Participants lingered briefly to give each other encouragement.

In preparation, I personally had given much thought to the first few steps in the guidebook. I thought about my own shortcomings I hoped the Savior would help me with and make me stronger (Ether 12: 27). After feeling low about a personal issue, I felt drawn to the phrase, “power of Christ” and wondered how I could access more of His power. I woke early one morning and felt prompted to go through the entire 12-step guidebook and circle every occurrence of the word, ‘power,’ which I did with the help of the online version and search function. As I circled each occurrence I noticed frequent use of the term ‘grace’ and so I marked that word as well. A pattern emerged and I began to see the word power associated with principles of the Gospel, specifically with the things Jesus taught and did. The power of faith, the power of repentance, the power of the Holy Ghost, the power of love, the power of forgiveness, the power of loving your enemy, the power of going the second mile, the power of honesty, the power of humility… I was beginning to see that enabling the power of Jesus Christ is in part doing what he does and says and teaches. 

For example, I reflected that if I’m prideful, impatient or get angry too often, then if I humble myself and have actionable faith in Christ, not only will he “make weak things become strong unto [me]” but after my best efforts “[His] grace is sufficient” for an additional endowment or gift of power to overcome my weakness. By loving instead of hating, by being patient instead of hasty, by trusting him instead being fearful, then his power emerges, and his grace brings additional comfort and rest. By actively facilitating and participating in the 12-steps, I see that the Lord not only wants to redeem the addict, but also the shortcomings in me, in all of us. Based on what I have felt so far, I have every confidence that as I yoke with Christ, I will find rest to my soul. (Mathew 11:28-29)

With our first recovery support meeting now in our memories, we go forward inviting others to participate in weeks to come. Little (or big) miracles happen along the way. Last week we took announcement posters to each foyer in the six meetinghouses on Maui. In Lahaina we found a member needing a listening ear. On our trip to Hana we met the new senior couple serving there. They told us of a young adult they met at the Kahului Costco earlier in the week. That young man showed up at our meeting. Our calendar is filling up with appointments to meet with ward and branch councils, 2nd hour 5th Sunday combined adult classes, and sacrament meeting speaking assignments across both stakes. We are grateful for these opportunities to invite and testify of Christ and his ability to bear burdens and redeem us.

On Sunday, we attended church in the Makawao Ward up-country, where we shared about the program and met some wonderful people. We concluded our Sabbath having Father’s Day dinner with the other senior missionaries on the island. We love them and love serving with them. And they are helping us in our work.

Week 8 – May 26, 2025 – The Wonder of The Wunders

Posted on by
Reply

In 1986, a young father moved from Utah to Maui to start a new assignment at the Bank of Hawaii. His pregnant wife and young child stayed back on the mainland until a suitable affordable home was found. His initial situation was near beautiful beaches but challenging because it didn’t encourage the lifestyle change he needed to overcome some unfavorable habits. He rented a home up-country in Kula where his wife and child joined him. Soon their baby daughter was born and then by divine providence they moved to a home in Pukalani. Kevin and Bonnie Williams were members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but Kevin had not been active in the church for some time.

A few years earlier, also in Pukalani, native Arnold Wunder had gone through his own reactivation in the church. The Wunders and the missionaries followed divine promptings, and pure Christian spirit and “worked overtime on [Kevin.]” Because of his experience, Arnold knew Kevin’s every move. He agreed to start coming to church and even go on ‘splits’ with the missionaries. Kevin recently share with us, “My true conversion happened one night on missionary splits with Elder White and Elder Stringham. While living in Maui, we were counting our pennies and weren’t able to pay tithing which was keeping us from being sealed in the temple. I’ll never forget a family we visited, who literally had nothing. But when the missionaries challenged them to pay tithing they took their last $20 from a sugar bowl that was intended for food the following day to pay their tithing so they could be baptized the following week. I wept in the backseat of the missionaries car all the way home to Pukalani. I got home and told Bonnie we need to start paying tithing. The following Sunday we paid our tithing and have never stopped…We had our recommends issued by Bishop Arnold Wunder and then the following month we came home and were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple.” Bishop Wunder called Bonnie to be the primary president and Kevin received his patriarchal blessing and was called to be the Elder’s Quorum president. (Correspondence with Ken Hardman, May 2025)

Bonnie and Kevin Williams, have been active ever since and have serviced in many church callings, and raised a beautiful family. They now live in St. George Utah and attend the temple every Tuesday. Bonnie Williams and Joan Hardman are sisters! Years ago, Joan and I corresponded with Colleen Wunder as we were very interested in the historical Pulehu Chapel, to which she gave us information. When Bonnie and Kevin heard of our mission on Maui, they told us the story of the Wunders. We looked them up and made their acquaintance. They immediately invited us over for dinner this past week. It was a blessing to meet them in person and feel of their faithful love and passion for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Brother Wunder and one of their sons have served as stake presidents on Maui. The Wunders allowed us to share a few musical numbers in their home. They also invited us to participate in the local Maui Food Bank drive last week, which service we enjoyed.

We are progressing in getting ready to host, “Healing through the Savior, 12-Step Addiction Recovery Program” starting June 16. “Oh, that is so needed,” we hear from church members, members of Ward Council’s across the stake and islands, and the full-time missionaries. We have received training from Addiction Recovery Program (ARP) coordinators in American Fork Utah, Anaheim California, and Oahu Hawaii. We have been personally studying the printed and online materials and feel ready to start. The participant guide written by recovered addicts introduces the program, “First and foremost, we want you to know that there is hope for recovery from addiction. We are men and women who have suffered the devastating effects of various addictions and have experienced long-term recovery. We have known great sorrow, but we have seen the Savior’s power turn our most devastating defeats into glorious victories…” The guide draws upon scriptures, words of prophets, and proven steps of recovery. We are very excited about the love, support, and success participants will have as they draw on the power of Jesus Christ. We anticipate becoming closer to the Savior as well, as we apply the principles to our own shortcomings.

Joan and I spoke in our Sacrament meeting Sunday. Our topic was, “Jesus Christ, our advocate with the Father.” To illustrate, in both cases Joan and I drew upon memories of our own fathers and times in our youth where they were our advocate and were there for us when we were in danger or made mistakes. We gave ward members backstory for our love and interest in serving on Maui and then related this topic to our calling in the Addiction Recovery Program.

“There is another advocate that believes in us so very much. Jesus Christ has many vital roles in Heavenly Fathers plan. He executed the creation of the world and the hosts thereof. He is our Savior, friend, and Redeemer. By virtue of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the Doctrine and Covenants our righteous savior pleads, ‘Father, behold the sufferings and death of him who did not sin, in whom thou wast well pleased; behold the blood of thy Son which was shed… Father, spare these my brethren that believe on my name, that they may come unto me and have everlasting life.’ (D&C 45:1, 3-5) We referenced the stories of Jesus praying for his disciples in John 17 and the sacred prayer he offered while surrounded by his followers in the new world. ‘And no one can conceive of the joy which filled our souls at the time we heard him pray for us unto the Father.’ (3 Nephi 17:17)”

In the temple recently I pondered the Lords promise, “I will manifest myself to my people in mercy in this [Kirtland Temple] house.” (D&C 110:7) I focused on Jesus as our advocate with the Father. Revelation came and many references and symbols took on new and deeper meaning. Indeed, Jesus is there, engaged between us and our Father, advocating with love and mercy in our behalf.”

I pray that we may all imagine Jesus Christ advocating to the Father for us personally, perhaps even by name.

Pictures: Colleen and Arnold Wunder, Maui Food Bank drive, Joan at Pukalani Chapel, Ken and Joan at 13-Crossings trail