Stephen Joseph Hafen's Baptism Day

Last Saturday, September 27, 2014, Stephen Joseph Hafen was baptized by his father, Raymond Allan Hafen.  Stephen turned 8 on September 25, 2014.  He had really been looking forward to his baptism day.  We had an uplifting program. We began by singing the opening song:  "When I am Baptized." After which,  our good friend and former home teacher, Jonathan Ramirez spoke on baptism.  He related his talk to Stephen running with his Dad in a race the week prior.  He asked Stephen if he trained for the race and then asked him if he trained/prepared for baptism.  Then he talked about the 'rest stops'/aid stations along the course of the race and related it to how we need the Sacrament as our aid station to keep up and be 'wound up' for the week ahead.  He brought in a wind up toy robot guy and demonstrated to Stephen how the guy would lose steam if he didn't keep winding up.  He told Stephen how important it was to attend church every Sunday to partake of the Sacrament so he could renew his covenants of baptism and keep on going forward during the week (making good choices, of course.)

Then, Stephen and I sang "If the Savior Stood Beside Me."  We had a wonderful pianist too.  Thanks Mom!  Stephen sang with his heart and full confidence.  I sang with gratitude for a son who was choosing to follow Jesus and then it came to the last verse:  "He is always near me, though I do not see Him there and because He loves me dearly, I am in His watchful care.  So, I'll be the kind of person that I know I'd like to be, if I could see the Savior standing nigh, watching over me."  I looked out at those who were in attendance and all I could do was cry.  I made it to…"that I know I'd like to be…..,"

then Stephen got to finish solo (which was not the plan, but he did it and the impact was powerful.)

We were so blessed to have 3 nonmembers there.  We had invited Stephen's 1st grade teacher from last year, who happens to be McKinley's amazing teacher this year.  Mrs. Angie Reavis is an angel in our eyes.  She has done so much good for our children.  Looking at her while I was singing was what ignited the tears.  She had tears in her eyes as we sang of the Savior and my joy was full!  I love sharing the gospel.  Missionary work brings true happiness.  

After the musical #, Grandpa Lindquist spoke on the gift of the Holy Ghost.  He also talked about Stephen's race and how he had to listen to his Dad to lead him, guide him and walk beside him.  He said he would have people like Mrs. Reavis in his life who will lead him, guide him and walk beside him and this is what the Holy Ghost does.  In the beginning of Grandpa's talk, he read a portion of a talk by Daniel vanOrmer, (Stephen's cousin.)  It was so inspiring!   Thanks Daniel for preparing a talk on the Holy Ghost.  We're glad you were at the baptism in Spirit.  

Then, Stephen entered the font to be baptized.  He looked so pure.  Ray gently baptized him and brought him back up so he could prepare to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.  While Stephen and Ray were changing into dry clothes, I bore my testimony of the Savior standing by us and watching over us.  Then I asked all who were there to please write their testimonies or a message they would like to share with Stephen.  I passed out some card stock cards and pens.  Everyone wrote while instrumental primary music played from Paul Cardall on my iPod.  It kept a nice spirit of reverence and Stephen loved receiving all the cards later.  

When Stephen and Ray returned to the room, Stephen was confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.  He received the gift of the Holy Ghost.  He also received a beautiful blessing.  

The closing song was: "I Will Follow God's Plan for Me."

I hope Stephen will always follow God's plan for him.  We love you Stephen!  Thank you for choosing to follow Jesus.  

I hope you enjoy all the pictures we took on Stephen's baptism day.  We had time to do a few at the church before the baptism and then we came home and had Ray take photos of us in our yard.  

Stephen & Dad (Ray)

Stephen.  It's great to be 8!

Brother and sister.  Stephen & McKinley

Buddies.  Stephen & McKinley

Yes, I do love my sister!  Even more than Legos!

Mom (Kary,) Dad (Ray,) daughter (McKinley,) son (Stephen.)

Ray, Kary, Stephen & McKinley with Ray's parents.

Granny (Cindy Forstyth,) & Grandad (Don Forsyth.)

Stephen & McKinley with Kary's parents.

Grandpa Lindquist (Ed) & Grandma Lindquist (Sally.)

Happy Stephen!

It's my special day!  Hooray!

I'm just so happy!

Getting baptized is GR8!

Stephen & Mom (Kary) with his new scriptures.

A gift received from Granny & Grandad.

Stephen & Mom (Kary)

Warrior of God

Watch out world….I'm ready to serve.

The 'force' is with me now.

Future missionary.

Stephen Hafen.

Look at that glow!

Thanks for radiating light Stephen.

I love you Mom!

I love you too Stephen.

Howdy Dad!  Don't you love taking our pictures? 

Yee haw!

So happy together!

Still smiling!

One more time.  We got this!

Snuggle time.

This is my little boy.

Just a little closer.  Squeeeeze!

Happiness

JOY!

Pure love

My Prince Charming

Together Forever

 Yes, one day he will be taller than me.  

Just had to see how it would feel.  

Serious scripture study.

I love to read the holy scriptures.

Life is good!

Oh yeah…!

Mother & son

Ready…..

AIM!

FIRE!

The Spirit of God, like a 'fire' is burning because Stephen now has the gift of the Holy Ghost.

We're so grateful you chose to be baptized Stephen.  We love who you are.  Always remember you are Heavenly Father's son.  He and His Son, Jesus Christ love you and want you to be happy here on earth and in your home above.