Elder Patrick Kearon and his wife, Jennifer Kearon, recently ministered to people in the Philippines during a 10-day visit.
“It has lots of elements, a trip like this,” Elder Kearon shared in a video interview. “The thought of getting to families, and ideally in their homes, is always a wonderful thing to think about.”
During their visit, Elder and Sister Kearon met with the Secuya family and visited their home in the mountains above Cebu. The Secuyas’ bishop shared with the Kearons that while the family has their unique challenges, they have demonstrated a strong faith and testimony in the Savior.
“Despite the distance of the church, they show up every Sunday, [sometimes] walking three hours going to the chapel,” the bishop shared.
As the family spoke of their gratitude for Jesus Christ and for the Kearons’ visit, they became visibly emotional. “They feel that Jesus Christ sent you here [to] show His love,” the bishop translated.
“What I take away from a visit like that to a family is the actual feelings that I had when I was there,” Elder Kearon said. “The sweet emotions, the warmth, the love I felt for them, from them, in that whole setting. All of this is exciting, to see the children, to be with them. Just glorious.”
In a social media post after the visit, Elder Kearon testified of God’s love for the Secuya family and all of His children:
“We really are God’s children—and He really does love us.
“Jen and I consider ourselves absolutely blessed to have been reminded of this profound truth as we visited with the Secuya family in their home in Cebu, Philippines.
“Their faith in Jesus Christ strengthens us. Our Heavenly Father truly does love them—just as He loves each of you.”
“Being with the Church members in the Philippines is like being with a microcosm of members of the Church around the world,” he shared. “We see the best of faith, of joy, of vibrant life, of service, and devotion to things here and [to] higher things. …
“To be here, and to be enveloped in the light and the love and the faith of these people, is just the most beautiful blessing.”
Watch the full recap of Elder Kearon’s ministering visit to the Philippines in the player below.
More articles for you:
▶ 5 beautiful blessings of temple worship
▶ What happened when I read the entire Book of Mormon for the first time
▶ 3 scriptures to soothe your soul when life feels heavy
