Happy New Year

Another week gone. I'm not really sure what to say as is often the case. On Saturday evening we had to be home at 16:00, then on Sunday we just went to Church which was just one hour and spent the rest of the day in the apartment due to the New Year. Last Sunday I found out that there would be an 8 year old girl being baptized this past week. She's so cute and funny. She took my hand and sat me down and told me there's something I need to know. 1st, when you goto somebody's baptism, you bring them candy; 2nd, you bring candy for others; and 3rd, you don't forget the first 2 points. It was pretty funny for an 8 year old to say that and that she'd come up with it all on her own. Both of her parents are return missionaries, but her dad hasn't been active recently. With the new Church Handbook from 2010 a Priesthood holder who is not fully temple worthy can still baptize his child at the discretion of the bishop. I heard that he didn't want to baptize her, so I talked with our bishop and it was discussed in ward council and I was really hoping that he'd come around. Even on the night of the baptism it seemed like it wasn't decided, but I was so happy to hear that he decided to do it. I'm sure it would have been a regret if he hadn't done it. It was powerful for me to see a father baptize his daughter and see her little body start to float up a little before her lifted her back up. She is so innocent, trusting, and vulnerable. I know that the Lord smiled down on that event. I could feel it. The Church is true.

On Saturday, Elder Peterson and I watched the movie 17 Miracles. What a cool, powerful movie! I started tearing up in the first 5 or 10 minutes and was wiping tears the rest of the movie. I'm so grateful for those early pioneers. The did so much to contribute to what's gotten me here. I'm grateful for missionaries, that they found my Mom and taught her this message and that I am one now. I know that Jesus Christ restored His Church on the earth in these latter-days. This is it. Happy New Year everybody. I love you. Be strong.

- Elder J. Mahoney

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