Note from Nathan’s Mother:

I just received this email from a member in Nathan’s ward. What an amazing message:

Sister Householder,

This email is LONG overdue – in part because I’m not exactly sure how to even express in words what I want to be able to say! It has been well over fifteen years since I’ve sent an email to a missionary’s mom because it has been that long since I’ve seen the likes of Elder Householder and his companion. They are moving forward the work in our ward like I’ve never seen before. The amount of discussions they are teaching and people they are converting is amazing.

Y’all have raised an extraordinary son! He’s been trained well and I can’t imagine…if this is only the beginning of his mission…what he will be like by the end! He speaks with conviction and truth, always with the guidance of the spirit. His love for the gospel is apparent and it’s obvious that it brings him great happiness. It’s especially evident as he teaches the discussions and it makes such an impact on those he’s teaching.

As he and his companion have taught discussions in our home, they have truly taught by the spirit and been guided in more ways then they know, causing many hearts to be deeply touched and changed.

Elder Householder and his companion’s example to my boys has been absolutely life changing for them. And this is truly where the intertwining of lives, tender mercies and hand of the Lord work beyond my comprehension.

About two years ago I was concerned about my older son (who is now just shy of 16), his friends and direction in life. I worried, prayed and pleaded and was assured that he would be watched over and taken care of. I’m so grateful for the decisions and choices your son made during that time that have led him here because he and Elder Austin were truly sent as the answer to our prayers.

Through their example and love towards our son we have watched him change and draw closer to the Lord. He can’t wait to serve a mission! I think he would leave now if he could! 🙂 They have so kindly taken him with them to discussions, taught him and spiritually fed him in a way no one else could. His testimony is even stronger and is now accompanied by the zeal and happiness he sees in them.

I will forever be grateful for Elder Householder’s strong and righteous example. I told him THAT’S the real reason his braces didn’t come off sooner! We needed him right here, right now, with Elder Austin. I’ve not seen two elders so in tune with each other and together in purpose.

We love him and he will always be welcome in our family. His time here will be a meaningful standout chapter in our family’s story.

Thank you for getting him here where he was so needed. We appreciate your sacrifices in sharing him with our family and everyone here. Our ward has never seen so many souls being taught and converted!

With love,
Mary Eldredge