Elder Mason Rankin: "I went all the way under"

Y'all.... this past week was AMAZING!! I can truthfully say that it was one of the best I have ever had in my entire life. Baptism and Birthday weekend was perfect. Before going into that, let me share a few other highlights from the week.

There is a part-member family that we have been trying to work with for the last month, but had no luck until this week. We went over with Bro. S____ and met with J____ and H______. They are a younger couple with an 8 year old son and a new born baby. They are precious. The sister's had taught them previously so we reviewed with them some of what they were taught and then had some introductions. We had a good lesson with them about the Book of Mormon and about prayer. I am really excited to see what progression we can make with them because they are so nice and sincere. They even came to church yesterday, which was awesome! We are meeting with them tonight, so we pray that it goes well! :)

The other highlight I wanted to share was with Bro. H_____, the other part-member family we started teaching. We taught him yesterday about the first half of the plan of salvation, he told us all of it made sense and that the reading went well we left with him. He participated a lot and was listening intently to what we had to say. At the end, we asked if he had any questions and he opened up to us a little. It expressed to us how he feels like his biggest hang up is the claim that we have the "authority" and that his past baptism isn't valid. We testified to him and shared with him that we aren't taking away from all that you've done to increase your faith, we simply have the whole truth and the whole restored gospel. We are building off of your faith that you already have. The spirit was there and he understood, it was perfect. I could see him getting baptized in the coming months.

So now the baptism! The service was on Saturday morning and man, you should have seen that room. The whole room was packed with people. Family, friends, and ward members. It was so awesome to see such a big group come out to support these wonderful sisters. They did great, the talks were great and it all went smoothly. I know I had be stressed about it all going well, but once it started it just felt perfect. I enjoyed every moment and just soaked in the spirit. After I baptized Kascidy, she ran up the steps to Sis. Naylor and yelled "I went all the way under!" She was so happy, they all were and we all were as well. The next day we confirmed them members of the church and gave them the gift of the Holy Ghost. It has been a special weekend, one that I will always remember.

On top of all the joy, I had a great birthday. The Naylor's had me over for dinner and surprised me with chocolate zuchini cake. We had a big party and a great time together. I am so blessed and loved, they really took care of my on my birthday. This weekend was the best. I could never ask for anything more, my joy if full! I am grateful to God for everyday that I am back in the field, I wouldn't be here if it weren't for him and my family. I couldn't do what we do each day without his support. Words can't describe how I feel right now, just know that I am happy. I have added some new members to my family and gained a great love for this work. I know that my Redeemer lives.

Have a great week y'all, thanks again for everything. Remember God loves you... and so do I!

Just another day in Paradise....

Love,

Elder Mason Rankin :)