August 21, 2017

BAPTISM

Sorry about last week, no clue what happened to my email. 

This week was absolutely wonderful!

Jheimy was baptized!!! About 2 months ago she wandered into the church during one of our district meetings. We thought she was already a member and well now she is! She went to Palma (an island) to work, but came back early and was able to be baptized on her original fecha (date). It was a beautiful service. I was privliged to be able to speak and sing :) I spoke about the Holy Ghost, which is one of my very favorite topics. What a blessing it is to have a constajnt guide, comforter, and companion. I strive everyday to be worthy of that divine gift. We sang "Creo en Cristo." (I Believe In Christ) The ward was so supportive. They just absorbed her right in. She hasn't had many sundays in this ward, but I went around showing her off and everyone naturally just loves her. She literally glows. 

Favorite moments: Dripping wet standing in the womens bathroom, she told me how she doesn't know how to swim and she was really nervous (I even practiced with her a few days prior haha), but when she got to the font all she felt was peace and joy. She told us she saw this brilliant light and she closed her eyes and it was still there. Her testimony was powerful. She truly has converted and is so excited for the temple. Then after her confirmation Sunday she told me about the energy she felt as they had their hands on her head and she was just filled with peace and joy. Her sister, Maritza, is so close to baptism too and thought about getting baptized with her sister, but wanted more time. We are working with her. 

Edward is working to be baptized this Saturday!! He told me he recieved his answer and he will be baptized, and he wants to saturday, but we are working with him to repent of a few things. We have lots of faith, and great plans to help him understand the convenant he is going to make. Amazing to see the change from a park bench to the edge of baptism.

We received some sad news. We taught these incredible girls (daughters of Rita from Nigeria that owns a bar) last week and they were just enamored with the idea of getting baptized. They have had missionaries before and love and read the BoM, but just like last time, their dad said no and said we weren't allowed to see them ever again. Broke my heart, so I decided to fast. Just after I had begun fasting we ran into Sandra, the older of the two (15 and Sofia 10), and she said that all is well and that she is still reading the BoM. I know that one day, in God's time she will be able to find the missionaries again and have the oportunity that she's always wanted. I was filled with peace to see her and I know God listens to our prayers. 

I love the work and I love my Savior. Every day through study, prayer, and losing myself in His work, I learn more and more and I love Him more and more. 

I love you all!! Thank you for love support and prayers! Pray we can find prepared families! I know the Gospel is for families and for them to be eternal. I can't imagine a life without mine!

Have the best week!

Hermana Read