Magday Family

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Yesterday was the baptism of Jowell Magday, his wife April Lyn, daughter Jane and nephew Romel.  About two and one half months ago, Jowell was working.  He owns and drives a tricycle here in Cauayan City. 

Tricycles serve as a taxis here in the northern Philippines.  He picked up a fare; two of our young Sister missionaries.  They asked him if he knew about the Church and if he wanted to know more.  There in the traffic, he felt something that he had not felt before. He was so impressed by the experience that he sought out one of his neighbours/relatives who he had heard had recently joined the Church.  He asked this neighbour/relative  to introduce him to the missionaries.  Soon he was introduced to two of our Elders who work in his area of the city.  We were privileged to be part of their teaching and were in their home several times.  Jowell's family is strong, funny, happy and wonderful.  Thoughtful and kind.  They were ready to hear the message that the Elders brought to them. 

About two years ago, Jowell gave up alcohol and tobacco because he felt it was not appropriate for a family man.  Before his baptism, he read the entire Book of Mormon, including looking up all footnotes and cross references.  It was a joy to teach this wonderful family.  Just before their baptism date, the Elders asked the Magdays if they had anyone who they thought could benefit from their message.  They quickly created a list of 80 names, saying everyone needs this message!

Yesterday Jowell was baptised first and then stood on the steps of the font so he could watch his family be baptised.  He wept as he watched each one enter the waters.  He felt that he had found a home for his spiritual yearnings.  A framework to live his life in and that he could live joyfully with his family amongst the good members of the Church. 

3 Families (including the Magday family), 10 people in total, baptized in Cauayan yesterday.
It is experiences like this that ease the pain of separation from family, friends and home.  We love being missionaries in this enchanted land.

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