Manado: population 700,000; six elders and two sister missionaries. Second largest city on the island of Sulawesi. Mountainous region surrounding the bay; coconut trees in abundance. The majority of the population follows an evangelical church named GMIM. Thirty percent Islam population. Public transportation plays the worst mixtape known to the 21st century. If the food isn't spicy then it isn't good.
Church: the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has one organized branch in Manado. The branch was established around 40 years ago. There are 154 members listed and about 70 attend church weekly. Church is held in two storefronts that have been finished to use as a meeting house.
My Week: lots of interesting things have happened. While at a member’s house Elder Eddington and I watched someone pass away. Having knowledge of God’s plan of salvation for us, his children, was a blessing in the moment. We left a strong prayer with the family and will be returning tonight to attend one of the several funerals that will be held in the coming days.
A lot has been on my mind as of late while I have been learning the duties of my new calling as Branch President. Conducting sacrament meeting went well. What scares me the most is when Elder Eddington and I meet people and they ask who the preacher is at church.
Questions:
Q: Is there a local dialect spoke in Manado?
A: Yes, however the dialect spoken in Manado is not too far different from standard Indonesian. Lots of the words get shortened. Every dialect in Indonesian seems to have its favorite vowel. Javense has its o's. Lots of the a's get changed into o's. For example apa becomes opo. In Manado the favorite vowel is a. Sebentar becomes sabantar.
Q: What is your favorite part about being Branch President?
A: I love the increased opportunity that I have to serve and teach the members, as well as building strong relationships with them. I am not sure if the members will let me go home in May.
Elder Allen.
