Zone Conference in Trinidad

We attended our first Zone Conference this week, held at President and Sister Gamiette’s home and attended by all the companionships in Trinidad and Tobago, including couples – all who stood and recited “my purpose” by heart from “Preach My Gospel.” Three of these handsome young men received certification stickers for their name badges (which means they had memorized 50 scriptures and can recite them by heart). The missionaries sang “Happy Birthday” to three of their own. Sister Gamiette presented each companionship with instructions on what to do in the event of a hurricane or civil disturbance and Sister Ellison gave the missionaries good advice on staying healthy, including a list of items they should have in their first aid kits.

Then President Gamiette – a remarkable teacher and leader – gave excellent counsel on how to get investigators to the point where they will ask “what shall I do?” when the missionaries introduce them to the gospel. He noted “when you exercise your faith and make your teaching personal to each of Heavenly Father’s children, he will always provide you with a goat” (Genesis 22:10-13). He also noted, “the most golden contact you will find each day is going to be behind the last door you knock on.”

AP’s Ipson and Hicken followed that same line of thinking by reminding the elders, “angels are guiding you to those who have been prepared to hear the gospel message (Alma 13:24). Your job is to match your goals with your accomplishments.”

Using Alma 5 as his text, President Gamiette pointed out the teaching tools used by this ancient prophet. Getting them to “Search” is reminding investigators of the history of gospel doctrine among men. “Analyze” gets people to think about the doctrine for themselves; and, “apply” is getting them to visualize how specific gospel principles apply in their lives. He encouraged missionaries to “sharpen” their teaching skills; set and then work to reach daily goals, pray more mightily, and make it personal.

Our young president admits he is sometimes lacking in organizational skills and tends to make decisions “on the fly” but even with those shortcomings, he is a spiritual giant. He cares so much about the missionaries in his charge and wants them to grow spiritually as individuals and future leaders of the Church, as well as to “bring souls unto Christ.” It is an amazing experience to be in his presence and learn from him.