Sunday we had another fun day in Fredonia. Before Sacrament meeting Melissa and her son, Allen came up to us wanting to set up a time later in the day for us to come teach Allen. Allen told us he really wanted to be baptized. They couldn't meet with us until 4:00 and they live 30 minutes south of Fredonia. Since her other committment was in Fredonia and we were wanting to avoid and extra hour of driving, we had the inspiration to suggest we meet with them in the Branch President's home. The Burkes were willing and President Burke sat down with us as we began teaching Allen. We had a delightful time with him and were amazed about how much he remembered from his limited primary experience. When we were finished with our lesson, we turned to the Branch President and said, "We think he is ready to talk to the Branch President, what do you think?" He said "I think so too. We need to set up an appointment with him for a baptismal interview". Allen asked who was the Branch President, as he was excited to get everything done so he could be baptized. President Burke said, "I guess that would be me! Lets go talk." He took Allen into the next room where he has his home office and they talked for a few minutes. Then the office door flew open and Allen came running out to his mother shouting, "I passed!" It was so fun. Then President Burke asked him who he wanted to baptize him and he immediately responded, "My Mom!" We then taught him about the necessity that it be done by someone holding the proper priesthood authority and he then asked President Burke if he would do it.
He is going to be baptized this coming Saturday with our other two investigators. We are so excited.
Donya and Lizzie were both sick with the flu this week-end so we weren't able to visit with them. However as we checked in with them last night to finish up the preparations for them, they were both much better and are also eager to be baptized. Donya's brother-in-law will baptize them and she asked Paul last night if he would confirm them. So things are moving right along.
Noel was in our Gospel Essentials class this week. She said she had an appointment with the Jamestown Elders for Tuesday evening (last night) so we didn't try to teach her this weekend. The Elders called us last night to report that they had taught the plan of salvation and that she has committed to baptism for the 1st week in March. She will be coming to observe the baptism on Saturday.
We have enjoyed so much serving in the Fredonia Branch. It has been a thrill to be a part of these good people accepting the gospel and preparing for baptism. We are so grateful for this experience. Our temple president told us when he set us apart at the beginning of our mission, that even though it was a temple mission what we would remember most would be our experinces in the branch. This has proven true. Our experiences in the temple have been wonderful. Our love for Heavenly Father has grown so deeply from our serving there each day. But the joy we feel from helping these dear people in Fredonia learn about the gospel has been overwhelming. We wish this mission didn't have to end, but we are ready to be coming home. Our mission has been perfect. Hard, challenging, and perfect.
