A little over a week ago we attended the baptism of Billy. It was a sweet meeting! Billy is a big man who looks a little rough (tattoos on the back of his shaved head, neck, arms), but is really so soft spoken and sweet. He and Shannon, a less active member now returning to activity, were married a week or so before his baptism - a necessary requirement as they had been living together. Liam is their sweet little baby boy. They both have older children. Billy received the Aaronic Priesthood yesterday. And Thursday night he is going to baptize two of his (or maybe her) older kids. (I am still putting their family together.) But they have been solid in their church attendance. And one of Billy's best friends is also now attending church and taking the discussions.
I love our missionaries!
I also love the diverse and caring ward we attend! It is filled with many lovely and interesting people.
This evening we are taking Mike Espinoza out for dinner. It is his birthday. Mike is a convert of about two years. He is in his 40s -- a very quiet man who has struggled with mental health issues most of his life. He lives in a world where reality, fantasy, science fiction, and theology are all mixed together. He lives in a home for disabled people and shares a tiny room with someone. Meals are provided. He never misses church and passes the sacrament every week. He blessed the sacrament a couple of weeks in a row and then expressed that he was not comfortable doing that, so he is back to passing. Yesterday in Gospel Essentials class, we learned that Mike just finished reading the Bible. Next he says he will again read the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price. Elder Mecham has really befriended Mike and Mike is pleased with the attention. He is happy and sweet.
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