Tanner & Carter's Baptism

Today I got to experience one of the best things about living on this island... an ocean baptism! And not just one but two- a brother and sister! Tanner and Carter got baptized today at Coconut Beach. With permission from their family, here is their story of recent events that led up to the baptism.

The Lapere family had been inactive for quite a few years. Their dad came out here to the island (for med school) a little before the rest of their family. Shortly after he arrived, he felt prompted to seek out the church and start coming back. They prayed to know if this was the right thing to do, and they felt strongly that it was. While Jimmy's family was still back in the states, they began to be taught by the missionaries. Ceseley and the kids moved out here and it didn't take long for Tanner and Carter to choose to be baptized. Thinking about their story gives me chills. The way they followed the promptings of the spirit and how they relied upon prayer with such great faith is an inspiration to me (and I am sure many others as well). It has been amazing to watch this unfold! The day was perfect. President Alvarado (the Mission President, who is over this part of the Caribbean mission) was able to fly out, which was so great. What an amazing story Tanner and Carter have to share.

You can just see the love these kids have for each other. 

Their sweet family!

Jimmy baptized both of his kids. What a great blessing it is for them to be baptized by their father! 

Shaking the Branch President's hand.

After the baptisms, President Alvarado gave a talk on the Holy Ghost. It was powerful.

I love hearing him speak. And he spoke right to Tanner and Carter! I can't think of a more qualified person to give that talk. President Alvarado just seems like he always speaks by the Spirit. What a special thing for Tanner and Carter experience. And what a great blessing it was to have him present for the baptism!

A few of my favorite girls! 

From left to right {Patricka, Karleen, Josepine & me!}

Cute Carter & me!

Our fam with the new members! 

Love these girls! 

Karleen & Carter

Riri and her amazing family! They are the sweetest people! I am so glad they came!

Shantell and sweet baby Alise

Doesn't this picture just melt your heart?!

Classic Tanner! 

Shantell and me + a few of our girls! 

What are we going to do without you Shan? :(

Um, I love him! I love that we get to experience these amazing things together! 

Me and Ceseley! She is one amazing mama!

And the cherry on top... watching the sun go down on the ocean. 

Did you see a green flash?... 

The baptism was amazing and uplifting! We are so happy for you both Tanner and Carter! We hope you never forget how you felt today! Thanks for letting us be a part of your special day!

{If you are not familiar with the beliefs of our religion and want to learn more check out this site}.