Callahan's Baptism

Cal chose to follow the example of our Savior and get baptized and confirmed with the gift of the Holy Ghost.  He was baptized on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2016 at 10 a.m. at the “A Frame” Church in Bountiful.  This was where Daddy was baptized about 25 years ago, and Cal was excited to do it there.  We thought it would be nice to do his baptism while we were down visiting for Christmas since most of the family is in the area. We've been talking about baptism for a long while and have had special family councils with just Cal, and Family Home evenings on baptism to help him prepare.  But he made up a long time ago this is what he wanted to do. He knew it was the right thing and the way to follow Jesus.  

It was a beautiful winter day, snowing lightly and everything looked white, clean and fresh.  We arrived early and Cal was so excited!  He’s been looking forward to this day for a long time.  We took some pictures, greeted family, and then the service began.  He shared his baptism with another little boy from Grandma & Grandpa’s ward, Cooper.  The ward mission leader spoke a bit, then Cooper’s big brother gave a sweet talk about baptism and likened it to riding a bike.  Then Aunt Amy played the violin and Grandma Di played the piano to “Jesus Once Was a Little Child”, Cal’s favorite Primary song.  It was so perfect! Cal was beaming on the front row during this and the talks.  Then Uncle Jeff talked about the gift of the Holy Ghost.  That’s the first person Cal thought of when we were asking him who he wanted on the program.  Jeff did a great job explaining the Holy Ghost – who He is, how He works and what He does in a simple way for the kids and adults.  Then Cooper got baptized first, and Callahan went after him.  Daddy baptized Cal.  The water was warm and Callahan had a big grin on his face after he was lifted out of the water.  The witnesses were Grandpa Scott & Grandpa Dan.  Then the family of the other boy played songs on the piano/violin and cello while the boys were getting ready.  It was beautiful!  The Spirit was so present during the ordinances and service.  Then it was time for Cal to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.  In the circle was both Grandpas, Uncle Jeff, Uncle Randy, Uncle Jerry, Uncle Brian, Uncle Todd, Uncle Kolby, Uncle Mark, and Brother Driggs.  Cal thought it was cool so many were able to place their hands on his head and help bless him with this gift.  We talked after about how blessed he is to have many examples around him.  He was blessed with the gift of the Spirit.  Then Daddy blessed him with some other things.  Cal was blessed that he’d remember his baptism day and it would be like an anchor to him.  He was blessed that the energy and enthusiasm he has would be used for good.  He was blessed that because of Cal’s obedience it would be said and known that he keeps the Gospel well.  That he’d figure out his mission in life and his body and spirit would be able to support him in that.  He was blessed to be prepared to receive the Priesthood someday and hold it worthily.  After that, we sang a closing song (I led and Grandma Di played) and the member of the Bishopric talked about what a special day it truly was and how strongly he felt the spirit.  The closing prayer was said by Uncle Jerry and then there were hugs all around, and Cal got some nice gifts, too.  We took a few more pictures after that. 

Those who attended Cal’s baptism were: Grandma Sue & Grandpa Dan, Uncle Jeff & Aunt Shirley, Uncle Randy, Uncle Jerry & Aunt Stacy & cousins Tayla, Kaison, Brody, and Sawyer, Uncle Brian, Aunt Julie & Uncle Todd, Grandpa Scott & Grandma Di, Uncle Kolby & Aunt Amy & cousin Boji, Uncle Mark & Aunt Mayela & cousin Amber, Great Grammie and Great Uncle Dave Stoddard. 

Then we went to Chuck-A-Rama for lunch.  This was Cal’s choice…he loves the slushies and pizza and fries.  Haha, a boy’s dream!  We thought it would be good than everyone can get what they want and it was just easy.  It was fun to be with everyone and catch up and be with our family all together one last day. 

When we asked Cal right after what he felt, he said “I felt good!” with the largest grin on his face.  We talked about how everything that feels good and right is from Christ and that’s the Holy Ghost telling him he made the right choice.  We are so proud of Callahan!  He’s such a sweet and Christ-like kid.  He has a very tender heart and is sensitive to other’s feelings.  He has a connection with Heaven, and you can tell it when he prays.  He is so sincere and specific in his prayers.  He teaches us so much already and is in tune with the Spirit and sensitive to it’s whisperings and feelings already.  He is obedient to us and God.  He’s going to do amazing things in his life and we’re thankful he’s taken that step on the road back!