A Beautiful Day

 January 29, 2012 is the date Haleigh made her declaration of faith, in front of many friends and family, through baptism. 

Haleigh could not get to this time of day fast enough.  Sweet friends greeted her in morning church with excited hugs and exclamations of excitement looking towards the afternoon to come.  After church we headed out to eat with both sets of grandparents.  Finally, it was time to go back to the church and get Haleigh ready.

A sweet time of praise and worship started the baptism celebration.  Each child being baptised had previously been taped telling their story of how Jesus pursued their hearts.  Their video was shown along with a few pictures through their childhood.  Next a parent was able to speak confirmation over their child and their decision to accept Jesus as their Rescuer.  (Mark spoke over Haleigh for a few reasons.  First, I think it is important for a daughter to hear her Daddy's affirmation.  Secondly, I would not have gotten one audible word out through my tears of joy!)

After all 8 beautiful testimonies and baptisms, all those who came to support Haleigh in this decision gathered and prayed for her.  Then we had a sweet time of celebrations!

 It was a beautiful day!  The testimonies of Jesus' awesome work in the live of these children.  The bubbling over excitement of Haleigh as she counted down the hours till she would be baptised.  And so much love poured out by those (able to be there and those across the miles)  that will walk through Haleigh's life with her, celebrating her joys, praying with her and for her, and challenging her to continue reflecting and depending on Her Rescuer, Jesus Christ.