Another Baptism!!!!!!

We are absolutely thrilled to announce that we had another baptism here in our little branch in Tsuruoka! 

Ryohei walked into our Tsuruoka English class on October 19th.  He said he had seen one of the many posters we put up and felt he should come.  He recently returned to Japan from America.  He was in America studying English at Creighton University.  He asked Elder Murakami what he and all of us Americans are doing here.  Elder Murakami told him that we teach English, but that we also teach about Jesus Christ.  Ryohei responded, "I want to learn more about Jesus Christ!"  Can you say golden?!  He attended our advanced class that evening and I don't think it was just coincidence that our discussion that night involved answering questions about "our lives so far."  Two dear sisters, members of the branch, were in the class(one also there for the very first time.)  They both shared experiences that brought the spirit.  For instance, the one there for the first time got the question, "What is your favorite pastime?"  After explaining what pastime meant, she said that prayer is her favorite pastime.  She likes to pray. Their answers brought the spirit.  Then, after class, the elders showed a video "I Am a Mormon" in Japanese.  Ryohei was moved.  I think he truly felt the spirit.   Just three weeks later (unheard of in Japan) he was baptized. 

It was a lovely baptismal service.  Our little branch choir sang "The First Noel."  There were more in the choir than in the congregation!  31 people attended.  It was just wonderful!

The portable font.  This time we made sure it was blown up and filled well in advance.  No bucket brigade this time!  That would have been way too cold in November!

We provided treats after the service and everyone had a great time visiting and welcoming Ryohei.

Since the baptism was on a Saturday, the font had to be carefully dried and put away so the building would be ready for Sunday. 

It was quite the job!

This sister has also committed to baptism and was so happy to be there to see how it is done.  We so hope she will be our next announcement!

Folded up and ready to be stored . . . for a very short time, we hope!!!

Congratulations, Ryohei!  We couldn't be happier for you!!!!