There was a problem when I was still a pioneer in the church. The church was considered odd then; it was rumored that we pray naked and that church was this and that. I was called three times to be questioned about the church at the Department of National Defense and the Department of Population. It is the Department of Defense that issued missionaries their long-stay visas when they enter Madagascar. I was questioned from five to seven PM under the office of Zafy Albert. I was very proud to represent the church; I took all the documents to show them.
People find it easy to interact with me. I am a member of the neighborhood watch in our area and chief secretary of our town.
I practice the principles of the gospel in these duties. People ask me where I go to church because they see in me my Malagasy roots, and the friendship the gospel of Jesus Christ the church taught me.
…I always start with the objectives and mindset of the Malagasy people. What I mean is that I am all about action; I do what I am supposed to do. In my pocket, there is small note with “thank you, you are an example” if a priest read well and blessed the cups of water and plates of bread. “Thanks, you are an example” with a smile and I shake their hand. That way of life is seen in all of the church. We need to appreciate the simple things. We don’t need to give candies or money. Saying you have nice glasses force people to be grateful. This brings us to meet Jesus Christ, helps us understand the Atonement.