Baptism!

This week was a good one for the area of Paderborn, because we now have a new member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints!

The week started with the Paderborn Weihnachtsmarkt opening, so the Christmas season is fully running now.  Throughout the week, we had a apartment cleaning check, and Transfer calls, where my companion and I learned that we would be staying together in Paderborn for another 6 weeks.

On Thanksgiving, our investigator, Joachim, had his Baptismal Interview, which went well, and then after that I traveled to Unna for a split with my District Leader.  We were able to celebrate Thanksgiving by making a Thanksgiving dinner.  The next day there was a zone training meeting  where we learned of the new initiative from the Church called "He is the Gift."

On Saturday was the baptism, which was in the city of Hagen (because they have a baptismal font there).  There was a baptism for the Hagen ward before ours, so our investigator was able to attend that before he had his own baptism.  I did have to baptise Joachim twice because his leg popped out of the water the first time.  The next day in church he was confirmed as a member and received the Holy Ghost.  A few members made comments that throughout Church they could feel the Spirit really strongly, and that this Sunday felt really special.  Members are also supporting Joachim now in finding a job and a place to live, which is amazing!

It was a wonderful experience to have a baptism.  To see the joy Joachim had from the experience was priceless, and I am so grateful that I was able to be a part of this experience.  I know the Gospel truly makes a difference for the better in people´s lives.

 Elder Black, Joachim,and Aaron

 Baptism

Baptism