Dear Parents, Friends and Family,
We are grateful to report that the storm has passed and that all missionaries are safe and accounted for. Typhoon Ruby weakened considerably as it approached the Manila area over the past few days. By the time the storm passed last night it was nothing more than a heavy tropical storm. We are now asking the missionaries to resume their normal duties but to be very cautious to avoid any floodwaters.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of our missionaries in the areas where the typhoon first made landfall over the weekend, causing extensive property damage and destroying homes and businesses. We are love you and are praying for you.
It is a remarkable thing to be a member of the Lord's church and to have some knowledge of the our Father's plan of happiness. No matter what storms of life come our way, whether it be weather or health or family challenges or poverty, we know that our Heavenly Father has not left us alone. We can always rely on the Holy Ghost, the Comforter, to give us peace in times of trouble. We know that Heavenly Father not only plans for us to come back to live with Him again but that he plans for our great happiness. Our role is to have faith in Him and in His Son, Jesus Christ, to share His precious gospel and to follow His commandments. In exchange, we have the promise of peace in this life and eternal happiness in the life to come.
I testify with Alma that "...I do know that whosoever shall put their trust in God shall be supported in their trials, and their troubles, and their afflictions, and shall be lifted up at the last day." (Alma 36:3)
We need to "...press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and love of God and of all men..." 2 Nephi 31:20
May the Lord bless you,
President Creg Ostler
Philippines Manila Mission