Warren Piece: baptism

Our final leg of the trip took us to our home away from home-- Salt Lake City. Two special ordinances were taking place that we didn't want to miss-- the baptism of my niece and the sealing of my nephew.

My sister's daughter, Mele, was baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints on a Friday evening. Both grandmothers gave beautiful talks. After the program, the Halatokous prepared an unforgettable evening of eating, music, and dancing. Tongans really know how to throw parties, and this was no exception. There was a buffet of shrimp, ham, meatballs, chicken, rice, crab salad, sweet potatoes, Tongan chop suey, creamy spinach, and desserts galore. Traditional Tongan music played over loud speakers while polynesian dancers performed. Everything was quite impressive.

I feel very close to my niece, Mele. I babysat her on a regular basis until she was 5 years old. Simon and Mele were practically siblings. I feel as though Mele is one of my own. Our family was so excited to be able to witness her baptism and confirmation. We love you, Mele!

Mele, in white, surrounded by the Hanks and Halatokoua cousins

My sister, Rachel, and her husband, Kala (parents of Mele)

My nephew, Sifa

My niece, Solome

My niece, Liz

My nephews- Sifa and Ian, and my niece, Christine

My nephew, Miles, with his daddy, Devin

The very next morning, we drove to the Timpanogos Temple to witness the sealing of my nephew, Sawyer, to his parents Abbey (my sister) and Peter. Abbey and Peter adopted this beautiful baby in July of 2009. They had to wait 6 months for the adoption to finalize before blessing and sealing him. The sealing ordinance that took place was one of the most spiritual experiences that I have had in the temple. Thank you, Abbey and Peter, for allowing us to be part of this sacred moment in your family's history.