May 2024 Part 3: Gabe's Baptism

 On May 4, 2024, Gabe chose to follow our Savior and be baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He wanted Papa to baptize him (which really worked out because Brian couldn't due to his recent wrist surgery). 

Trent Read, the 1st counselor in our bishopric conducted the service, and Lea was the chorister with Nana on the piano. We sang "I Love to See the Temple" for the opening song, and Aaron England gave the opening prayer. Rachel gave a talk on baptism, and she did such a great job. Nana played "I Am a Child of God" on the piano for a special musical number, and then Gabe was baptized by Papa.  

While Gabe and Papa were changing, we moved to a different room, and Nana played music to maintain the spirit of reverence while we waited. Then, Grandma Chadwick gave a talk on the Holy Ghost. Gabe was then confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and given the Gift of the Holy Ghost by Brian. Brian also gave him a beautiful blessing. 

Trent Read gave some closing remarks, we sang, "Come Follow Me," and then Elijah England gave the closing prayer. It was a beautiful service, short and sweet. After the service, we went back to our house for brunch. 

We were so grateful for our friends and family who were able to join us on this special day. We were delightedly surprised to see Larry Smith, one of our Saville side cousins at the service. Brian's mission president also came, as well as some of our neighbors, friends, and our amazing family. 

Here's Rachel with Elise and Elsie. 

Rachel with Aaron. 

Gabe with Haven. 

Lea was kind enough to take these pictures for us: Michael, Papa, Nana, Brian, Gabe, Me, and Rachel. 

Michael, Papa, Brian, Julie, Devri, Gabe, Grandma Linville, Grandpa Linville, Rachel, and Grandma Chadwick

Grandma Chadwick, Michael, Brian, Gabe, Devri, Rachel, Grandma Linville, Grandpa Linville

Our family plus Gracie (who follows wherever I go). 

Since Gabe was baptized on May 4th, we couldn't help doing a little May the Fourth celebrations. We made these Star Wars themed chocolates for this event. They were filled with peanut butter and cake pops. 

I also made these temple and number 8 sugar cookies. 

Here are a few pictures of our supportive friends and family: Grandpa, Lea, Kristina, and me (and clear in the back Papa is talking to President Smith, Brian's mission president. There is someone else back there, but I can't tell who it is). 

This looks like Haven, Aaron, Elsie, Rachel, Abby, Chelsea, Lea, Gabe, Grandpa, and Michael. We served breakfast casseroles, yogurt parfaits, sweet breads, and fruit. 

Me with Kristina.

Michael, Atlas, Nana, Serene, Dustin, Haven, Aaron, Rachel, Abby, Chelsea

Chelsea, Lea, Gabe, Mom, Al & Dylene Metcalf (next door neighbors), with me, Kristina, and maybe Atlas in the background). 

Michael, Shayne, Danny, Skyler. 

Taryn & Mom (aka Grandma Chadwick)

Here's Gabe opening presents

Scriptures (from Mom and Dad) and a scripture case (from Grandma Chadwick). He also got lots of little gifts of candy and things from our friends. I didn't even see all the things, and we felt so loved and supported. 

Dustin, Serene, Devri, Brian

A few days later, we got a package from Grammy Bobbie and Papa Joe. They are so kind to remember our kids and honor their baptism days. I'm including all the pictures because Gabe's faces are the best. 

It's this beautiful framed drawing of Jesus with a lamb, and Gabe keeps it on his nightstand. 

We're so proud of Gabe, and we're so grateful for the love and support from our friends and family members.