A Great Baptism!

Last night Eugene and Trisha Rousch were baptized. It was the most special thing I think I ever saw. I don't have words to describe it. I can't think how to start.

Members who have been involved in teaching the family conducted the meeting, gave the talks, and performed the baptism and will do the confirming on Sunday. The missionaries were so willing to just be there and to witness the special event. The main talk was by Br. Skidmore, a local type guy in relaxed attire who was nervous enough that he wrote his talk and read it. He had helped teach the Rouschs and they really like him. I think he was reading his talk mostly to keep from getting emotional. It didn't work. He had to stop a couple times, like when describing how the Atonement makes it so that Christ enters your life and changes you. His talk was excellent, right from the scriptures and full of simple yet profound doctrine.

After the baptism, two of the sister missionaries played an amazing piano and violin version of "I Know That My Redeemer Lives." It was perfect. Then Br. and Sister Rousch bore their testimonies. This is the part I can't put into words. Sitting in the audience were Br. Rousch's sister, mother, and stepfather as well as Sister Rousch's brother, some of whom have been opposed to their baptism right from the start and had been bringing anti-Mormon articles to them. Eugene spoke right to them and told them of how he and his family were committed to doing the right thing. He spoke of how pure the message is, how pure the missionaries are, how pure the gospel is. He was very emotional, but not so much in a teary way. He was bold and strong and told how he really felt about finding the true Church of Jesus Christ, all the while struggling to keep his composure. He was exceptional! His beautiful wife just beamed at him. When she took her turn she was so thankful to all who have helped and taught them. She was struggling a little too to keep in control but did great. I am telling you, you would have guessed they had been members for years.

All the while their 6 year old, Javis, was watching and wondering, and little 9 month old Tracin was beaming and smiling at everyone as if to say, "Thank You for helping my family be together forever!"

The Relief Society president welcomed Trisha into that organization, and the Elder's Quorum president did the same for Eugene. The bishop said there wasn't much left to say, so he said just a little.

I am reminded of several of the Book of Mormon prophets who said they couldn't record on the gold plates what they really felt, and that is sure the case here.

What a special ordinance for a very special family.

.