Normally, our children would be baptized at 8, but because the adoption is not complete, Mr. T. had to wait until his twelfth birthday to get this done. Also, a baptism usually takes place on a Saturday. However, this Saturday, the youth from our ward are going to the temple to perform baptisms. Mr. T really wanted to go to this, we were able to get the baptism done on a Wednesday. Mr. T would also need to have the priesthood in order to attend the temple, so that was taken care of last night too.
I've got to tell you, this was one of the most incredible baptisms I've ever had the pleasure of attending. My own children's were special - don't get me wrong. But Mr. T had waited four extra years. He'd had to get permission from the government - if you can believe that. They won't allow any religious decisions until the age of 12 - and until the adoption is complete - he is still technically theirs.
The spirit was so strong there last night. I'll bet there were close to 100 people in attendance! Which was great because Mr. T could see how much love and support he had for this decision. It was hard to contain all the emotions we felt. I think the only time Mr. T wasn't smiling was when he was shedding "tears of joy" (as he called them) while he bore his testimony.
When we got home, he said he just "felt different". He was the sweetest happiest boy! His bedtime prayer was one of the most sincere, as he offered thanks for all he's been blessed with. I'm so grateful that he has come to be part of our family! I know I have learned so much since he and his brother came to be part of us.
We are all truly blessed!
Three things I'm grateful for:
- That Mr. T was finally, FINALLY able to be baptized because it was his decision and no one else's.
- Our new little foster daughter. She is wonderful and funny! I am loving the hugs and kisses and teaching her new words, to count, and sing... but I am NOT enjoying the potty training!
- My husband. He is a wonderful father, husband, and friend. I'm so grateful that he has the priesthood and is able to bless each of us. It was wonderful for him too, to be able to perform each of Mr. T's ordinances last night too - especially because he is so afraid of crowds! He did it perfectly, and I love him so much!
Wow I'm so happy for all of you specially Mr. T. Thanks for sharing this special moment with us. I am so grateful for the gospel in my own life. I remember the day I was baptized into the church as an adult. I felt the spirit so strongly I shall never ever forget that day. I know that we are loved by a Heavenly Father and brother Jesus Christ. They are constantly guiding and giving us all we need to be happy and return home to them one day. My prayer is that we will recognize their influence in our lives and have the courage to follow that still small voice. By so doing, we can never go wrong.
ReplyDeleteWow, I am sooo happy that Terry was able to be baptized, confirmed and ordained! That is so amazing!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations to you as a mom for being such a great support and light in his life :) it must be so wonderful to watch him flourish :D
I miss that little man soo much :) I'm sure Matt does as well as he's off on the mission field but will be so ecstatic to hear about this!
Much love,
Angel
I am shedding 'tears of joy' reading your post Kerry! Last night was a wonderful baptism! The Spirit was felt so strongly when Terry bore his testimony!
ReplyDelete