Chloe’s Baptism

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 Last month our 2nd oldest turned 8 years old. She chose to be baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. This is her baptism story.

I belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. 

I know who I am. I know God’s plan. 

I’ll follow him in Faith.

I believe in the Savior, Jesus Christ.

I’ll honor his name. 

I’ll do what is right; I’ll follow his light

His truth I will proclaim. 

Primary Hymnbook

I believe as a parent one of the most beautiful things we can witness is our children making decisions that will impact their life for good. Choosing baptism may seem an easy one when you grow up in your faith – but it’s still a choice we give our kids. We hope they choose it and encourage them by teaching our faith. It is, however, ultimately their decision. 

Only 16 months prior Venice, our oldest made the same decision. I wasn’t sure than if we had adequately prepared her. Was she old enough to make such an adult decision? All the thoughts I hoped were normal for a parent wishing they were doing the best they could for their children. 

Having been here once before, I stopped the questions before they started. I’ve been teaching Chloe, and her siblings, her whole life to love God, love family and be kind. So I knew she was ready to make her choice. 

Part of baptism in our church is a meeting with the Bishop. This is a chance for Chloe to share her testimony and make the final decision without my influence. Later our Bishop told me when he asked Chloe a question that she didn’t know the answer to, she told him “I don’t know, I’ll go ask my mom!” and then got up to come find me. He was impressed with her honesty, and knowledge of where to find answers to her questions. 

In the LDS, or Mormon church we believe children under the age of 8 are innocent. At 8 years old, though, they know right from wrong and have the knowledge to choose between the two. Choosing baptism is the first step in choosing the right. We promise to obey God’s commandments and honor his name. In return, he has promised his spirit to be with us. We never have to walk alone in this life when choosing the right. 

Isn’t that a beautiful promise? My heart is full with the joy baptism has brought to my life, and now to my two oldest. Chloe invited a few friends from school to attend her baptism. Not knowing any of them or their parents, I wasn’t sure if they’d come. One of her best buds did come, though. It was wonderful to chat with his parents, to share our faith with them, and hear about their own beliefs. 

Is it even possible to not feel the joy steaming off this photo? Chloe is and always has been a joyful child. I hope she continues to spread that joy in her life, and never feel shy to invite people into her life and knowledge of her Savior.