Growing up, I never raised my hand when Primary teachers asked who wanted to serve because I was full of doubts—what if I wasn’t good at teaching or understanding the scriptures? There were so many 'what ifs' in my mind. But I had the desire to serve a mission, though the 'what ifs' never went away.
But after a dream in October 2022 where I saw myself as a missionary standing by the sea with my companion, I felt a stronger desire to serve and knew it was a sign. I knew there was a reason why I had that dream.
When I started preparing, it wasn’t easy, because there were times when my desire weakened. I prayed, and then a missionary told me, “Mission will serve as a great foundation in your life, throughout this life and the life to come.” I know that Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father provide a way to strengthen and help us.
I know that going on a mission is not easy; I will be far from my family, far from my comfort zone, going to a place I don’t know, and talking to people I don’t know. I don’t know what will happen to me on my mission. I testify that God takes us as we are and uses us to bring about great things. God will use who we are to connect and bless others. When the focus is on God and His ability, it’s much easier to move forward.
I testify that He will help us learn and grow along the way. We will not know everything or understand everything all at once, but I know that He will give us the experiences and knowledge that we need to move forward. I testify that we are in His hands, and we can trust Him. Elder Gerrit W. Gong said, “Become who you are meant to be by walking with Jesus Christ. Each person has a divine potential and a unique path in life.” I testify that we can do hard things through Him. “Many are called, but few are chosen.” In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
SISTER VERTOSO
Philippines Iloilo Mission
(January 2025 - July 2026)