Monday, August 17, 2009

Robert's Baptism

One thing that I really like about getting new jobs is the opportunity to meet a new group of people. I always seem to find one person that I can connect to and hold a strong bond with. As a baker, at Panera, I was able to hold a strong bond with Robert Hines. Robert is one of those people that everyone can get along with. If you don't get along with Robert it is your fault because he is such a great guy.
Robert is really easy to open up to and always seems to have good advice. Through our hours of working together we were able to get into some really in depth conversations. Since the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is such an important thing in my life and helps in my every day decisions I brought it up about every day. Slowly, but surely, Robert was learning more and more about the LDS religion and he would ask more and more in depth (VERY difficult) questions. I can honestly say that I answered questions that I did not know I knew the answers too. The great thing about Robert is he has a really strong Christian background and knows the Bible a lot better than anyone I know. So, it was easy for him to understand what I was talking about. One thing led to another and I was finally given the opportunity to give Robert a Book of Mormon. He was lucky enough to go to the Lord in earnest prayer and feel the spirit testify to him that the Book of Mormon is a true book of our Heavenly Father. After going to church and learning from the missionaries Robert was baptized on August 16th!
The spirit was so strong at his baptism and I'm grateful for the opportunity I had to witness such an important ordinance. Robert is going to be such a strong member of the gospel and I'm excited for the people he will encounter because they will all truly be blessed! Below are pictures from his baptism.
Michael had the honor of preforming the baptism. Michael and I were both really touched that Robert asked Michael to do this special ordinance.
These three missionaries all had the wonderful opportunity of teaching Robert. Far left: Elder Way. The one standing right next to Michael: Elder Puy. Far Right: Elder Ladd. Elder Ladd was transferred a few weeks before the baptism but was given special permission to attend the baptism. I thought that was really neat because he played such a large role in teaching Robert.
I can't put into words how proud of Robert I am. I love him so much and I am so glad that he is now a member of Christ's church.

5 comments:

Janelle said...

Wow! That is so exciting, I didn't know you were such the missionary. Way to lead by example!

Christy said...

That is such a great story! Good job at recognizing those missionary moments and actually having the courage to use them!

Erin said...

you're an inspiration Luanne, and congratulations to Robert!

Marielle said...

Luanne I am seriously so proud of you for being such an example. Not many people I know have helped someone join the church. It's so hard to do and you are a rockstar for having the guts to talk about the church and to invite him, as well.

We are excited to have Robert in the ward!

Suzi Hardy said...

What a great experience. I am so excited for Robert and you and Michael. This is seriously a very inspiring experience.