So this week flew by. A couple highlights: Mission conference with the mission President on Wednesday. Had a great futbol game on Saturday with the members of the congregation. Today we did a big service project for an older lady. We watched her catch a chicken and kill it and make it into a delicious cazuela, or chicken soup stuff for us. Also, Sunday the Stake Presidency came and helped us get more organized and coordinated as a branch. Great talks given on Easter Sunday. Here in Chile, this week was the Semana Santa, or Holy Week for Easter. All this really means for Chileans is that they have another excuse to drink lots of wine. Lots of drunks in the street this week. They are really receptive to our message, but we figure our time is better spent elsewhere, so we avoid them.
But the best part of the week was on Sunday. Mario had the opportunity to baptize someone! Having been found worthy, the same Sunday he was confirmed a member of the church, he received the Aaronic Priesthood, which contains the authority to baptize. Mario understands this authority better than most, despite the little time he has in the Church. He realizes the responsibility he has to stay worthy to act according to the will of God.
The man he baptized is named Jose. He is about 80 years old. He has a wonderful spirit and the baptism was beautiful. I have never seen two more humble souls than those I saw in the baptismal font that day. The baptism was performed and Jose came out of the water thanking God. Mario gave him a handshake and a hug and warm welcome to the "family of the church," as he calls it. Everyone there could feel something good.
Humility, love of God, and sense of duty bring miracles. Always be willing to do what you need to do, even if it is hard. Usually it is. Life is good, but not always easy. The difficult road of righteousness leads to eternal happiness and offers joy along the way. Thanks for all your support.
Elder Peck
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