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VIEW PERSONAL BELIEFS
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POSTED BY:
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bubbleboy_619
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DATE:
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02.12.2008 |
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SUBJECT:
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Corey's Conversion Story |
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LOCATION:
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London,
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It was one April afternoon when two missionaries had come to my door. I just happened to be home at the time as I answered the door. I was asked if I would be interested in learning about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. It had been televised on commercial advertisements before, so I had heard of it. Knowing nothing about the church, along with my desire to learn, gave me good reason to listen. The conversation lasted a good twenty to thirty minutes. Afterward, they offered a prayer and asked if they could come back again. Interested, I said yes.
After the second visit, I obtained the Book of Mormon. Following their departure, I went into my house and read the introduction and the foreword that explains the prophecy of Joseph Smith as well as the testimonies of the Twelve Apostles and the three other men of the day.
At this point, I was kind of keen on prayer. I also didn't read too much from the Book of Mormon. Maybe it would take time and patience. The missionaries had acknowledged that I was a non-religious individual open to the wisdom and knowledge of all religions. Part of the reason to find out the truth in each religious doctrine as a relief from every media bias and persecution. (Ex: Mormon males are chauvinistic polygamists who wear bonnets)
Upon a few more visits I openly admitted to my subconscious distance from the acts of prayer and scripture study. They continued urging me to pray. Then, one night, I began praying. The next night I would skimp; it was kind of an every now and then activity investment. Eventually, it would develop as a habit. Time went on and I truly began to believe in prayer.
So the missionaries continued scheduling appointments and giving me lessons. In assistance, they would give me little booklets on the plan of salvation, the law of chastity, the word of wisdom, and the meaning of everlasting life through the atonement. I continued to expand my knowledge by reviewing the booklets three or four times. I wanted to keep this material retained in my brain as I desired. I also became persistent on scripture study by reading the Book of Mormon as well as the New Century Version of the Bible. It was what I had obtained from my grandmother at the time and it was in the boundaries of my great appreciation.
The missionaries became very happy for my vast desire for wisdom and intelligence. As I learned more, I had realized that most of the beliefs were ones that I had found to be acceptable as well as true, at least in my mind at the time. They asked me if I wanted to be baptized, but I still had reasonable questions based on the scriptures. Not only that, but I also told them that I do not think I am the religious type. I have been non-religious all my life.
Upon the presence of first attending church, I felt the Holy Ghost. When around the missionaries, I felt the Holy Ghost. It was a come-and-go type thing. As it developed in its depth, I felt the Holy Ghost with me all of the time.
Praying and pondering on the baptism, I began feeling the Holy Ghost with the warmth that it always offers. It became "I think I want to be baptized." Then, "I want to be baptized." As well as, "I'm still not sure that I want to be baptized." More pondering and reflecting of myself. Now confirmed, "I am getting baptized for sure."
It was Saturday on August 16 that I was to be baptized. Then the day comes. I wake up feeling excited. Not nervous, excited. Then I get baptized. The rest of the night was one of the greatest feelings that can never be forgetten or explained into words.
The next day, I was confirmed as I received the gift of the Holy Ghost. Another indescribable feeling. I went to bear my testimony through excitement, not nervousness.
I always hear about past converts bearing personal testimonies and claiming that such decisions are irregretable. I can definitely attest to that. Two of the greatest gifts that I have been given are the Aaronic Priesthood and the Holy Ghost. One of the greatest materialistic gifts that I have been given is the large set of scriptures that I appreciate so much.
I for one can definitely claim with great genuity and truth that being baptized into the LDS church is one of the best decisions that I have made in my life. I bear this testimony and leave these words with you in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
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