Elder Dallon Smith in Chile: A Memorable Baptism

Monday, July 4, 2011

A Memorable Baptism

Dallon was excited to tell us about a special baptism he had this week. Most of his letter was about the baptism, but he tells us that he is doing great and is learning so much. He had two splits with Elder Nilson and Elder Silva and attended a zone conference. His companion, Elder Balling, is finally getting better and they were able to go eat out at McDonald's this week.

"What a week! I have so much to tell you. I felt like I could hardly wait to talk to you all. I have learned so much and I have been reminded once again that this church is true and that we truly are the saints in these latter days. "

"We had a baptism yesterday! It was an experience that I will never forget and one of the happiest days of my life. Estrella lives really far away from the chapel. Sacrament meeting started and she didn't show up. She and Alex were suppose to be baptized and I thought it was strange. Half way through the meeting, I told Elder Balling that we had to leave right away and go find Estrella. We left in the middle of a talk, which was a little awkward, but we needed to do it. When we finally turned onto the street, I saw her with the stroller and all her kids walking towards the church. She laughed when she saw us and was so happy to see us. She felt special that we went to find her. We started talking to her and she asked if she could still be baptized today. I told her of course, but felt that she was still a little hesitant. We got to church and the mission leader gave a lesson that focused on baptism. She felt the spirit and wanted to exercise her faith and be baptized. The mission leader asked her who she would like to baptize her and she said the missionaries. Then she was asked which one and she answered by touching my arm. I felt sooooo... I can't explain it...warm I guess. It was like I was being prepared for this as if I already knew that one day I would know her. Elder Balling would baptize her son Alex. It was one of the most spiritual experiences that I have had. Estrella wanted it to happen so bad and knew that this was the true church. She was first to be baptized and I will never be able to forget her face. Everything went smoothly and the spirit was so strong. I was a little nervous because I had never really done this with an adult and with someone who has a difficult time being submerged in water. Estrella's face paralysis makes it so that she can't close her eyes or mouth. She went under with her eyes open and... I just wish you all could have seen it. It was something that I can't describe. It was so incredible. The ward was so supportive and did everything for them. A sister dried Estrella's hair and gave her a sweater. It was cool to see their love. Another member donated a refreshment, which is rare here in Chile and someone else got a taxi for them to all ride home. They were all so happy! "

"Last night we passed by Estrella's house to see how they were doing and to give them a gift of a full set of scriptures and a hymn book. The biggest lesson I learned this week is the strength of women. I have no idea how Estrella defeated all odds to be baptized. I truly would number her among the faithful and valiant pioneer women. I have not seen such faith or strength in someone. Estrella is someone I will never be able to forget. She is humble and intelligent. I want this to be the beginning of something wonderful for her and not something that will give her more trials and afflictions. I have learned so much and am so grateful for her example ."

"Francisca and Marilia had their baptismal interviews and are going to be baptized next Sunday. We are all so excited for them and they have become such good friends of mine. They love to talk about Disney stuff and amusement parks. ha ha Their testimonies are firm and they know exactly what they want. I am so happy for them and can't wait for next Sunday! "

"This week I had divisions with Elder Nilson from Hayley, Idaho and Elder Silva from Chile. Two in one week! ha ha It was really fun and I got a lot of work done here in my sector. We did have a conference . It always makes me feel horrible as a missionary. I have so much that I can improve on. That's funny what you told me, Mom. Our ward here is doing Zumba for an activity every Friday night! ha ha "

"Anyways, that's about it. I love you all so much and I have learned so much. The photos are of the baptism and when we went to eat at McDonald's last p-day. I know my hair is long... ha ha I had to put a hair cut on the back burner for Elder Balling. I'm getting it cut after I leave today. ha ha Be happy and thanks for everything! "

Elder Dallon Smith

Elder Smith with Estrella and her children.

Estrella and Alex's baptism day with Elders Smith and Balling.

It looks like Elder Smith is really hungry. Check out his order (:

Alma 29: 1-3, 9

"Oh that I were an angel, and could have the wish of mine heart, that I might go forth and speak with the trump of God, with a voice to shake the earth, and cry repentance unto every people!

Yea, I would declare unto every soul, as with the voice of thunder, repentance and the plan of redemption, that they should repent and come unto our God, that there might not be more sorrow upon all the face of the earth.

But behold, I am a man, and do sin in my wish; for I ought to be content with the things which the Lord hath allotted unto me.

I know that which the Lord hath commanded me, and I glory in it. I do not glory of myself, but I glory in that which the Lord hath commanded me; yea, and this is my glory, that perhaps I may be an instrument in the hands of God to bring some soul to repentance; and this is my joy."

ANSWERS by Elder Dallon Smith

The morning starts in a rush.
All I want to do is tell the alarm to shush!
I get out of bed and start my daily exercise.
Why is it so early when we have to arise?

I hurry to get ready
and then immediately start to study.
So many things that I need to learn.
Will I be able to answer a question when it's my turn?

Before I know it, my companion and I are off.
Our sector is so big, I hope we don't get lost!
Everyone is really busy running here and there.
Are you sure you don't have time for a two minute prayer?

Lunch time arrives and we're ready to eat.
We get to the table and quickly take a seat.
It's humbling to see how much they give us, though they are really poor.
Oh dear Sister, do you have to ask us if we want more?

The day then begins and we're ready to go.
We get to the first door and loudly yell, "Alo!"
A man answers and coldly tells us to go away!
If it was Jesus knocking, would you let him stay?

We continue to search 'til our voices grow thin.
Once in awhile, someone will actually let us in.
We start to teach about Joseph Smith and the things that he's seen.
When they ask us a question in Spanish, we think, "What does that mean?!"

The sun goes down and the night grows cold.
But we're still out walking, seeking for those of the Lord's fold.
We want to know where else to look.
Who else is waiting to receive the message from this book?

Finally, the time arrives to go back to our home.
We strategically run back, making sure to stay in our "safe" zone.
We silently travel in the light, our safety starts to become a doubt.
Are the Lord's angels really all about?

We reach the pension and start to plan.
We talk about everyone we teach, every woman and man.
We scramble to cook, eat and shower.
Are you sure it's already been an hour?

We crash on our beds, ready to relax in a dream.
Eight hours of rest sounds better than it may seem.
I remember to pray and offer up my humble supplication.
Oh Father, did I meet your expectation?

Sweetly and softly a response starts to echo in my head.
The words feel familiar as if I've already heard them said.
"My son," he begins in a voice that I know.
"Do you realize that I love you even more than I can show?"

"I'm aware of where you are and I know what's going on.
Always remember I've sent you right where you belong.
I have a plan, but you'll have to trust in me.
Do you have faith in the promise, My kindness shall not depart from thee?"

"Don't be nervous about the language, that will all come.
Just keep my spirit near to guide you and he will work your tongue.
Be strong and courageous, and teach with the authority you've been given.
Are you remembering, you represent he who was risen?"

"Reflect on his example and guard him in your heart.
His very words will give those you're teaching a brand new start.
Be obedient, follow in his footsteps, and don't go astray.
Can you feel his presence walking beside you day by day?"

"Go and rescue my children and fight with all your might.
Remember Christ said, "My yoke is easy and my burden is light."
He loves his missionaries and knows all that you can be,
so how will you serve to answer your brothers' question, "Do you love me?"

My conversation with my Father ends and I am left in a state of peace.
So many feelings rush inside me, a joy that I can not release.
My attitude changes and my love overflows.
How can I not be happy with all of the blessings God bestows?

I will change and do my best to do as the Lord commands.
I want to place myself completely in his hands.
No matter how many questions we have or how inadequate we might feel.
We can always find our answers when we are willing to kneel.

St. John 14: 26 - 29

"But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the
Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father; for my Father is greater than I.

And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe."

Moroni 9: 3 - 5

"Behold, I would exhort you that when ye shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ye should read them, that ye would remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ye shall receive these things, and ponder it in your hearts.

And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.

And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things."