Lyle's Baptism!!

Hello from the promise land! The three main components of missionary work are finding, teaching and baptizing. This week, we got to do all three! Lots of good is happening in our area and we are doing our best to capitalize on all of it.

We went down to Sherwood Park on Wednesday for the meeting for new missionaries and trainers! It was cool to sit down with the new mission President, his wife and the assistants and receive a little instruction. 

On Thursday we went over to High Prairie for district meeting and then I took Elder Brown back with me all the way to Wabasca for Lyle's baptismal interview. All went well and we fixed somebody's flat tire on the way back amid 50 thousand Mosquitoes! 

We filled the font on Saturday starting at 1:00 p.m. and did our weekly planning session off to the side. When Lyle showed up with the Vadnais', the family that has been fellow shipping him, we showed them inside and got them into the dressing room. Lyle came out all set, But Jon came out late and said there was no way he could fit into the XXL jumpsuit. You'll bee happy to hear that I didn't even panic that bad. We called a few people and tried to get him the temple cloths from one of the members of a similar girth. We misjudged it apparently because they didn't fit at all. It was decided at that point that I would perform the baptism and everyone was good with it. Good thing Sister Park advised me to bring my white clothing just in case. Lyle bent his knees and went under like a champ! No repeats or anything necessary. It went lovely and we had Jon do the confirmation the next day and President Park ordained Lyle to the office of a priest! It was all a joyful experience to be certain. After the Baptism, Lyle shared his experience growing up and how he came to join the church with a small group which included an unbaptized 9 year old, the son of less-active parents. He has been living with his grandparents who are members of the branch and we should begin teaching him soon. 

Len Smith is doing well and is talking openly with the members about getting baptized which is a great thing. I think he is feeling more comfortable with his decision now that he's made it. He is such a fun fellow to talk to and he's got a great sense of humor. Pick and flower of England, I tell ya. 

We had a great Branch outing last night and this morning out in the woods and at Martin Mountain! Len came, and so did Seth, the unbaptized 9 year old and another returning less-active and his son. We are seeing hearts soften and miracles unfold before our eyes out here. The situations present themselves and we just have to befriend, act and invite. I'd just like to share a scripture that I've memorized this week that I think is applicable. 

Therefore, dearly beloved brethren, let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed. 

Doctrine & Covenants 123:17

that is my testimony for this week and I leave it with you sincerely, In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.