On Wednesday, July 8, 2015 Connor went to the temple for the first time. He chose to attend the Mount Timpanogos, Utah Temple in American Fork, Utah. It was just the three of us--Shon, Connor and me. It was a really special time for us as parents to be in the temple with him as he made covenants with the Lord and received saving ordinances necessary for his salvation. To enter the temple there are requirements that must be met. First, a high standard of living and obedience to the commandments of the Lord. Participating in a temple preparation course. Receiving the Melchizedek Priesthood. Then, interviews with the Bishop and also the Stake President to determine desire and worthiness. After all of these steps, Connor was given a temple recommend which allowed him to enter the temple before heading out on his mission. I know that he gained strength and perspective from the experience he had in the temple--things he can lean on and refer to often as he serves as a missionary.
A week later Shon and I took him to the Manti Temple in Manti, Utah. This temple holds a special place for us. Shon was endowed in the Manti Temple before his mission. And then, that is where he proposed to me. And, that is where I said "yes". I think partly because of those things, and partly because he thought it was such a beautiful place, Connor wanted to attend that temple before he left. We had a great night.
Manti Utah Temple July 15, 2015
One of the highlights of his temple service before he left was being able to take his two sisters, Makaeli and Bryn, and do baptisms with them in the Provo Temple. The girls took family names and Connor performed the baptisms. He was able afterward to stay in the temple by himself that day and enjoy the peace and the spirit found inside. I know with all the changes that were on the horizon, he felt a sense of security and purpose each time he attended the temple. He mentioned several times how much he loved it and how much it helped him when he was feeling unsure about things. On Saturday, July 25, we did a family temple session in the Salt Lake Temple. His grandparents (LeCheminant) and many aunts and uncles from both side of the family joined us. It really was awesome!
Salt Lake Temple July 25, 2015
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