Sister Madison Coleman: Week 59

Before Baptism of Jaqueline and Wellington

We had some super excellent experiences this week. First, the baptisms of Jaqueline and Wellington, a 14 and 11 year old. These kids are so clever and I've grown to love them so much. All the elders before us were visiting them too, since about a year ago, but they never wanted to get baptized. They're in the process of being adopted by their aunt, who's a member and brings them to church every week.

After Jacqueline and Wellington's Baptism

Jaqueline even went to Youth Conference and bore her testimony in sacrament meeting one of my first weeks in the area, but she still didn't want to get baptized. (????) Finally, last week we had a super spiritual lesson with them, and kind of out of nowhere they decided to be baptized. I cannot even express how happy I was, I can see SO MUCH potential in these kids, I am so sure that they will go on to do amazing things for the church and for their Savior, and I'm so blessed to be able to see the start of their journey on the gospel path. The baptism of Jaqueline was one of the most spiritual experiences I've had on my mission so far; I know it was a miracle from the Lord that they finally took this step.

Sister Missionaries at Zone Conference
(Week 58 Update)

Also, my companion and I were asked to speak in sacrament meeting yesterday. I talked about the reasons why we have to share the gospel and why it's necessary for our exaltation. Sister Carlota talked about how sharing the gospel is our greatest expression of love for our Savior. Right after sacrament meeting, several members came right up to us and gave us some referrals of friends or neighbors that they wanted us to visit (I guess the talks worked, right?). These members are fantastic...I hope I'll be staying here for the next transfer! (Transfers are next week.)

Camily's Baptism
(Week 57 Update)

Side note: I found a little bakery here that sells amazing cupakes- the first time I've eaten cupcakes since I've been on my mission (they're super rare here since they're an American dessert). I also found a used book store downtown, where I bought a few of my favorite books in Portuguese to read after my mission. I'm so happy here, you guys!

Making S'Mores
(Week 58 Update)

Espero que todos vocês estejam bem. Continuem a ser exemplos por aqueles no seu redor, e sempre compartilhem o evangelho!!! (I hope you all are well. Continue to be examples for those around you, and always share the gospel !!!)

Com amor,

Sister Coleman