MISSION MIRACLE

President Gardner asked us to teach a wonderful family in Cairns the discussions as he felt that due to some unusual circumstances a mature couple might be more suitable in this case.    The mum was already baptised although hadn’t been to church for a while and dad is not a member.  They were experiencing a great spiritual need and they were all keen to have us visit.
 We have had many wonderful visits with them over some weeks, and Elder Eldridge and Elder Porutu also taught a couple of lessons when we couldn’t make it.  During all this time they were eager to hear how they could have the light of Christ in their lives.  The youngest daughter who had just turned eight loved reading and saying prayers and the two older girls always joined in with the discussions, although a little shyer with the prayers.  We were overwhelmed with their love and were truly privileged to be teaching them. Each time we visited we could see the change in the family as they accepted the truths of the restored gospel   They were baptised on Saturday 7th September at 2 pm by a family friend and member Brother Luki who was supported by Elder Kuhn (Brother Luki has a back problem). Elder Porutu and Elder Smith were witnesses.  It was a beautiful baptismal service with very moving talks and testimonies.  All the family and most members were constantly wiping their eyes and the father was equally affected by the Spirit. The three girls were given the gift of the Holy Ghost the next day by another family friend Brother Mitchell and again we felt the Spirit very strongly   Whilst there were many times that appointments were cancelled at the last minute we were always able to reschedule a few days later.  Their mother has been an amazing force for good in encouraging her family to accept Christ.  It may be a while before the father commits to baptism but we believe it is only a matter of time.  The girls all attended their various auxiliaries on the Sunday and were welcomed by leaders and peers alike and they just seemed to fit in as if they had been coming for years. Sister loved Relief Society and was so happy with everything.    It is truly a testimony of members fellowshipping and working with investigators and the missionaries.