Baptism!

Matthew got baptized! (I used the name Aaron in the last email, but since he is a member now I'll use his real name). Saturday was the day of his baptism and he was blessed with warm water in the font. Apparently for Sister Haycock and Sister Eller's last two baptisms the water was FREEZING. Matthew was stoked for his baptism and super prepared from the very beginning. The baptism service was wonderful. Matthew was introduced to the church by his friend Mitch at DLI. There are such wonderful member missionaries in the YSA ward and they have great opportunities to share the gospel with their friends. (The majority of the people in the wards here are in the military attending DLI). So as a result there were lots of people at Matthew's baptism. There were two talks (as usual), one about baptism and one about the gift of the Holy Ghost, both of them were very well thought out and sincere. The Spirit at the baptism was almost tangible and it testified that Matthew really was following the example of his Savior by being baptized by the priesthood authority of God. After his baptism Matthew bore his testimony about his relationship with his Heavenly Father and the reality of the restoration. It was a beautiful testimony.

 

At Sacrament meeting on Sunday morning (Easter), Matthew was confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and given the gift of the Holy Ghost. After Sacrament meeting Matthew came up to us and told us that the moment priesthood-bearing hands were placed on his head he felt filled with the Spirit, it was more complete than he has ever felt it before. He had a wonderful spirit about him. He was also set apart as a priest in the Aaronic priesthood after church. What a great 24 hours for him!

 

Last night we were also introduced to two new investigators. They are a young couple and the husband is in the Army attending DLI studying Arabic. They were introduced to the church by some of their friends (also attending DLI). We talked with them about the Book of Mormon and how the Holy Ghost testifies of truth. We don't know them that well yet, but it is great to have people to teach about the restored gospel. The best part is that their member friends are such great examples of living the gospel. When we walked into their home you could feel the Spirit and see their testimonies in their countenances. I hope to have a home like that someday too. We're planning to meet with this young couple again next week.

 

We also went to the temple on Friday. It was great to be back in the temple and feel the peace associated with being in the house of the Lord. When I'm there it feels like my prayers have a shorter distance to travel. Sister Mattox was so kind to drive us up there, it's a 1 1/2 - 2 hour drive from Monterey. We had a great time. I'm so glad that I can attend the temple.