As many of you may know, Kate turned eight on March 30 this year, and that made her eligible to be baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Two weeks ago yesterday, she decided that was what she wanted to do, and was kind enough to ask me to perform the baptism. Her best friend BriAnne also wanted to get baptized, and so they did it on the same day.
In the months before she was baptized she studied and read the Book of Mormon, the Bible and other scriptures, both children's and adult versions. She understood that she was promising to be like Jesus, and with her tender spirit really felt the gravity of this decision. Even though she was somewhat daunted by and apprehensive of that commitment, she felt in her heart that it was the right thing to do, and courageously followed her heart.
I was absolutely surprised at the depth of my emotion over this ordinance. When Kate was born in 2000, it was the most profound experience of my life. Never before had I been so instantly overwhelmed with that odd combination of absolute joy and complete submission to whatever this little person needed. Her baptism made me feel like that all over again. How special she is. What a privilege it is to be her father, and to enjoy that sweet association of family with this amazing young lady. I am so proud of her.
Here is a picture of our family after the event.
We were lucky enough to have grandparents and a large contingent of the Moon cousins and family in attendance.
The entire Bailey family also came, but true to form, fled before they could be photographed, with the exception of Uncle Ryan and Aunt Hannie, who were too slow to escape. (Actually, Hannie has been a great influence on Ryan, and he will now almost willingly sit for photos. Miracles never cease.)
After the baptism, Kate and I went to the temple, where she got her very own "quad" (set of scriptures) and we talked about the next set of promises she would make and where she would make them.
We then finished it off with a trip to Neilsen's for a Chocolate Oreo Concrete. What a great, great day. 
4 comments:
Congratulations, Kate! It's hard to believe you are already 8! I remember you sitting next to me at Hayden's baptism a year and a half ago.
Time flies on wings of lightning!
P.S. Love the post on the backyard shed. Just further proof of the above statement.
She is growing up so fast. She's a cute little lady. We miss you Kate! Congratulation on your baptism. I am so proud of you!
You guys are such an example of teaching the gospel to our children. Congratulations Kate. What a big decision and what a wonderful experience it must have been for you. You're wonderful!
Congratulations Kate!! What a great idea to take her to the temple after. What a special day! You guys are doing such a good job. You sure have a special little girl too.
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