The thing I love the most about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is how constant it is. No matter where you go, the church is always there and the principals are always the same.
I am truly lucky to be so close to a branch here. Most cities have to skype in. We take the metro for about an hour and then attend church in a hotel. The branch is MAYBE a third of what my ward at home is. Maybe. It's mostly singles here in China for study abroad or ILP or China Horizons. There are a few families and I am in awe of their faith to move their family to China.
The rules of church here are a little frustrating. Our church is illegal here so we have to be careful with everything we do. We are on good terms with the Chinese government but they always have their eyes on us. We can't preach or even talk about the gospel. We aren't allowed to attend church with any native Chinese, although they are members. It's so frustrating because I see the lives that people lead here, the smoking, the drinking and everything else.
One teacher here even asked why we are so pure. We can't say anything and I wish so badly I could.
However, I know that the Lord has a plan. Everything will happen in its time and we just need to trust in him and have faith that these wonderful people will have the gospel eventually. And they will! Because the worth of souls is great and they are no exception.
I am so grateful for America. I'm grateful for the freedom of religion. I can't believe I ever complained when my church building was changed from the one on the corner to the one across the intersection. I love the gospel and I love all of you!!
-Taylor Janae
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