A portion of Elder Barker's letter, dated July 8th,
The devotional on Sunday was absolutely amazing. We got to hear from Jenny Oaks Baker. She shared her testimony and some life experiences, and performed a piece for each principle she testified of. Her music is absolutely amazing. We heard her play around 3 or 4 songs, and she had her three children play a musical number as well. They played I Am a Child of God. They played piano, cello, and violin. What a musically inclined family. Speaking of music, our district is performing a musical number in sacrament meeting on Sunday. We are singing Nearer My God To Thee in Spanish, A cappella. I must admit, we're pretty much amazing.

At the Tuesday devotional we heard from Cree-L Kofford, Emeritus Seventy. He was actually kind of funny. He spoke on obedience and discerning the spirit. I find it interesting that a principle does not truly become a part of your testimony until you put it into practice. Like my experience of learning how to serve others for the purpose of coming closer to Christ, rather than just doing it because it's 'good'. Finding opportunities to serve before I came here was incredible. As I gave of myself, I was happier, and now that I completely give everything I am to this great work, I'm the happiest I have ever been. Sure there are hard times, but none of them compare to the joy I feel.

Temple Walk - District 17D Left to Right: Hermana Aly Sypherd, Hermana Marie Cook, Hermana Rachelle Moss Elder Wade Lenon, Elder Alex May, Hermana Holly Clark, Elder Eric Porter, Elder Travis Hardin, Elder Matthew Frost, E. John Barker, Elder Alex Bosse, Elder Tyler Jolley

Elder Barker and Elder Jolley - Day 2. They still have the "new missionary" dot on their name badges.

The new Mission Presidents and Wives were at the MTC a few weeks ago. John and other Elders going to Chile Osorno were able to meet President and Sister Rappeleye.