Ethan's Baptism

Ethan was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints last night.  It was a superb service.  He was baptized with another little boy in our ward.  So many tender mercies made this wonderful evening possible.  I hope I do them justice.

A little background...Ethan turned 8 on February 7th.  We left for Florida that day.  Had I realized months ago that the 7th was the 1st Saturday of the month, he could have been baptized on his birthday.  However, I didn't put that together until we had tickets for Florida.  So, we moved to the 1st Saturday in March.

We scheduled Triston's sealing for Friday March 6th and the baptism the 7th so that Kathy and Reggie could attend both.  Then, we got the temple paperwork and in order for Ethan to attend the sealing as a sibling, he had to be baptized because he was over eight.  So, we had to schedule the baptism before the sealing. Friday the sealing.  Thursday the church was full. Wednesday is mutual. Tuesday...the church was available from 5:30-6:30.  We took it!

Then, we learned that the other boy in our ward that needed to be baptized wanted to join us.  Here's the miracle there.  He comes from divorced parents who struggle with one another.  The dad wouldn't allow his son to be baptized on a Saturday.  So, when our Tuesday option came about, he was able to be baptized.  The Lord works in mysterious ways.  I had the baptism planned of course, but we plugged Christian and is family right in.  It was a lovely program.

Ethan had to be interviewed by the Bishop for his baptism and to attend the Temple for our sealing.  He also had to meet with the Stake President! Big stuff for both Ethan and Kedzie.  It's been an exciting adventure for all of us.

Ethan was so excited for his baptism.  He invited quite a few non-members, and three were able to come.  He got a great new suit from Grandma, in addition to his cub scout shirt! He was so happy!

Travis baptized and confirmed Ethan. And there were probably 25 primary children in attendance to sing "when I am baptized." The chapel was filled with wonderful friends.  Jacob Marx and I gave the talks and Zachary Marx and Kathy gave the prayers.  We had seven dozen donuts along with OJ and milk to celebrate afterwards.  So much love and support.  We are truly blessed.

 Ethan was so hyper before the baptism that I sat him down to play checkers before we left for the church.

Yes, the water looks disgusting, but everyone came out clean!

Christian and Ethan 

Zac, Ethan and Jacob Marx 

Members of Ethan's primary class that attended: Sadie Hall, Ruby Thornton, Tyler Hosfelt, Jason Vischer, and Daniel Layman 

Here are the notes from Ethan's confirmation:

Men in the priesthood circle: Travis Ravsten, Reggie Ravsten, Perry Holland, Craig Thornton, Cory Thornton, Craig Denney, David Layman, Scott Cottrell, Scott Bruggeman, Chris Brady, Dustin Marx

To Ethan (my notes weren't perfect)

Heavenly Father loves you and prizes you.  You were sent here to become more like Him.  You will be a kind, caring servant who will love and care for others.  You are to help others.  Take this gift of the Holy Ghost to nurture others and strive to do what is right.  The Holy Ghost can be your constant companion.  He will lead and guide you to accomplish much.  You are a bright star to others.  You are example of the Savior and you are loved.