Preparing for a Branch in Ua Huka

Kaoha nui !! It was a hard week but we had lots of good experiences!

On Monday night we had a big family night we prepared for a Papi named Léon. He was a former mayor of Ua Huka, and loves talking to people that'll listen, so naturally we've become pretty good friends. Our theme was on families and miracles, and he almost couldn't stop crying the whole time. 3 years ago he lost his wife and has felt so lost without her. Our messages helped comfort him and he felt her presence. It was an amazing night.

We had an interesting battle Wednesday morning... The day before had rained heavily and we were to do some service for our friend Sumo who lives up in the mountains (think Maui from the movie Moana and that's him). Going there was fine, but coming back down with the mud ended up breaking my bike. We had to call for our friend Taipi to come and save us. With about 7 little kids as our mechanics, we were able to repair my bike enough to ride it around again.

The kids are always around us! I've learned a lot with them and are so much easier to talk to than adults. They're always curious, they (usually) listen and they forgive so easily. Some act better than adults. They wait for us to leave our house, sometimes they can't wait and they beg at the windows and doors for us to come out with them...

On Saturday, our branch president from Nuku Hiva arrived to do some temple recommend interviews, and announced that we would begin the process of preparing for a branch to be established on Ua Huka! As of right now, our mission presidents counselors will come straight here to Ua Huka near the end of May. We have until then to help prepare the members for their incoming responsibilities!

We learned how to build a type of polynesian underground oven, where many pounds of goat and pig heads were cooked for our consumption

We drove with our friend Taipi down to the store, where a cat patrols the iles, and as we drove back we had a beautiful view of the Vaipaee Valley. This tiny island is extremely beautiful, more so when its green. We are quite blessed to be serving here, to see a merciful God stretch His hands to ALL his children, and doesn't forget those on the isles of the sea.

Transfers are slowly approaching and we both wish to stay here. Lots of changes are happening and we are excited to see what waits ahead. Lots of work to do in my last 4 months!

Koutau nui to'u utua hae e to'u hoa !

Until next time,
Elder Hansen