Anthonye's Baptism!

I've been in the Agua Branca ward for just two weeks, but it feels like it's been three months already. A lot has happened. The highlight of which was Anthonye's baptism!

Teaching Anthonye and his parents is a special experience because they are truly learning about the gospel as a family. Anthonye's mother, Camila, started meeting with missionaries some time ago and introduced the missionaries to her friend. Her friend recognized the spirit of God in the first discussion with missionaries and quickly began preparing for baptism. Now she is helping Camila and her family prepare for baptism!

Camila also introduced us to two other family members and we were able to give them a Book of Mormon at Anthonye's baptism! The gospel of Jesus Christ blesses families and brings more peace and love into the home. This is clear to see with Camila and her family as they slowly grow in the gospel.

Yesterday, we went with our Bishop to visit another friend who has been attending church. He hadn't gotten home yet, but we got to talk with his parents for a bit. His mother basically said - 

"I have my own church. And my son has a lot of challenges and we don't talk much. But he's gotten much better since he's gone to church with you. And I'd be happy to join the missionary discussions with him."

I couldn't understand everything they said, but it was a neat to hear how the gospel had already begun strengthening their family.

Generally speaking, I am feeling pretty good about being in Rio and speaking Portuguese. The first few weeks were rough, but I generally understand what's going on now and I feel that I'll being very capable in the language in a couple months.

I also had some fun first time experiences in Brasil this week including riding on the trêm, which is basically the same as the metro in DC, but there were a bunch of people trying to sell things. They would walk up and down the train, stopping every once in a while to announce their prices. They were selling everything from crackers to sponges to unbreakable phone charging cords. It was a strange experience. But it worked! Someone bought some toothbrushes and sausages from them.

Elder Smith