Jacob's Baptism

Jake was baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Saturday, December 3, 2011.  Jacob has been so excited for his baptism and it has been really neat to see the changes in him as he has prepared for this special day.  Both sets of grandparents came down from Utah and Aunt Steph, Ty, and Madi drove in from St. George. 

Our baptisms are done on a stake level and each ward takes a turn every month choosing the program, giving the talks, and conducting.  It was our ward's turn and since I am the Primary President, I got to give a talk on baptism.  I loved standing up front to look down and see my Jake sitting next to his dad and my worthy husband all dressed in white while I gave my talk.  Another boy from our ward, Ryan Watts, was also baptized.

After the talks and scripture/song program, we headed into the Relief Society room for the baptism.  Jake went first and gave a huge grin when he came out of the water.  Ryan went next and while we waited for them to change, Bishop Reese gave some remarks.  When the boys came back, friends, siblings, and family members were invited to introduce themselves and share their testimonies to the boys.  Clark and Jake shared their testimonies and so did both Grandpas.  Grandpa Holt shared a great message using a clean white sheet of paper and likened it to how we are when we come out of the waters of baptism.  He drew big circles and scribbles on it while explaining that the marks represent what happens when we sin.  Then he crumpled it up and folded it really tiny in his hand.  When he re-opened his hand, he unfolded a brand new clean white piece of paper.  We can repent and there may still be some wrinkles from our mistakes but we can be clean and forgiven of our sins if we use the atonement of Christ.  My children stared at Grandpa with complete attention and were very impressed with Grandpa's "magic trick" but even more so, they learned a great lesson about baptism, repentance and how it all works together.

Jake's buddies:  Joshua, Jake, Michael, Cole

Jake's Baptism Buddy:  Ryan Watts

After the baptism we headed home for tomato soup and Subway sandwiches per Jake's request.  Then he opened up some wonderful presents from family members--a picture of Christ, a picture book and song about the Savior, a CTR mood ring, and a soft cozy blanket with a poem about "The Comforter". 

        

Grandma and Grandpa Stuart                             Grandma and Grandpa Holt

Aunt Stephanie, Tyler, Madisyn                              A proud big brother.

We are so proud of your choice, Jake.  We love you very much!