Joshua's big day!
These pictures were taken just before the baptism started.
As usual for us, things do not go as planned. Right when we were about to start the baptism, a lady came into the room and told us that she was sorry, but we were all going to have to evacuate the building because there was smoke coming from the Stake President's office. So we left and waiting outside, watched as several fire trucks arrived.
We waited and waited for the fire fighters to find the source of the smoke and give us the OK to go back in and proceed.
Several people from our group, waiting...
Joshua and Brent did NOT have time to change out of their baptismal clothing...but Brent did run in and grab shoes.
Toby anxiously watching the fire fighters climb onto the roof
Joshua and boys watching and waiting...
Starting to wonder if we were going to be able to go back in...
a bunch of adorable, waiting boys...
(Some are getting bored of watching)
After waiting for an hour and they still hadn't found the source of the smoke, the bishop gave us the option of having Joshua's baptism later that evening in another church building (in a town 20 miles south), or to wait until the next day...Sunday. We chose to have it later that evening since everyone was already out and ready for a baptism. And just when we were about to leave...the fire fighters FOUND the source of the smoke! It was a broken fan belt in the furnace.
So...we were able to go back in and proceed with the baptism. And it was LOVELY. And Joshua was SO happy as he said he was 'filled with joy'. He also said that he just knew Elsa was there watching...and I'm sure she was! This was so special because it is the beginning step for us to get our whole family together...so that after this life there will be "no empty chairs at our table".
Joshua, we are so proud of you! You have studied this decision and have chosen by yourself to take this step and follow Jesus.
President Ezra Taft Benson said "God intended the family to be eternal. With all my soul, I testify to the truth of that declaration. May he bless us to strengthen our homes and the lives of each family member so that in due time we can report to our Heavenly Father in His celestial home that we are all there--father, mother, sister, brother, all who hold each other dear. Each chair is filled. We are all back home."
President Ezra Taft Benson said "God intended the family to be eternal. With all my soul, I testify to the truth of that declaration. May he bless us to strengthen our homes and the lives of each family member so that in due time we can report to our Heavenly Father in His celestial home that we are all there--father, mother, sister, brother, all who hold each other dear. Each chair is filled. We are all back home."
1 comments:
Well, it's certain that you will never forget that baptism day - not that you would have anyway! Neat day, excitement and all.