Chapter 31: Sanctified

"And the first fruits of repentance is baptism; and baptism cometh by faith unto the fulfilling the commandments; and the fulfilling the commandments bringeth remission of sins; And the remission of sins bringeth meekness, and lowliness of heart; and because of meekness and lowliness of heart cometh the visitation of the Holy Ghost, which Comforter filleth with hope and perfect love, which love endureth by diligence unto prayer, until the end shall come, when all the saints shall dwell with God." Moroni 8:25-26

An absolutely beautiful week! We spent so much of it preparing for Lavant's baptismal service which was yesterday afternoon. It was incredible, a highlight of my life and mission, and I am so proud of my dear friend Lavant who has chosen to follow The Savior's example and be baptized.

I will never forget it. The Spirit was very strong and very present throughout the service—I could feel him testifying of the truthfulness of what was happening, both the words being spoken and the ordinances being performed. After Lavant had been baptized and been given the Gift of the Holy Ghost through the Priesthood authority, Bishop Reeve was able to welcome her into the ward. I will never forget the things he said. He walked up to the front of the room, with the biggest smile on his face that I had ever seen. He radiated pure joy. For a moment he could hardly speak, and when he did he simply asked Lavant: "Do you feel this? This feeling right now, the one right in your very soul? That is God and that is Christ and they are pouring out their love to you and are so proud of you and your faith. You are a woman of great faith." I was able to see Lavant because I was sitting behind her. I was blessed to watch her nod her head as he said these things, touch her chest, and wipe silent tears streaming from her eyes. In that moment, I knew, as Bishop Reeve knew, that God was there—The Father, The Son—both present through the Holy Spirit who filled the room and filled Lavant. Who filled me. Seek Christ and you as well can be filled with his presence. He has promised that he would manifest himself unto all who believe in his name, by the power of the Holy Ghost. And well, Christ keeps his promises. Life is good. God is wise. Don't give up. Elder Childers

Lesson with Lavant and the sisters!

Baptism pictures!

Cold Stone Ice cream!

Top Golf for Pday—I did my best and it was super fun. I think I might like golf more than I thought I would. Elder Rich and I want to go sometime after the mission.