The Priesthood

You could probably tell in Justice's birthday post that I was not really thrilled about him turning 12.  

Turning 12 is a bigger deal in a Mormon family than it is in other families.  At the age of 12, if a boy is found worthy, he is ordained into the Aaronic Priesthood and becomes a Deacon.  He leaves the church Primary program (ages 18 months - 12 years) and he enters the Young Men program until he turns 18.  More responsibility is expected of him, and he is no longer a little kid in the eyes of the church.  He will pass the sacrament during church, and he will start to perform meaningful acts of service for other people.  He will study with older boys, and start the journey towards his full time mission.  

I am called to serve in the Primary program in our ward.  This calling is rewarding for me because it allows me to be with the boys during church.  I have really enjoyed being with Justice and watching him learn.  But today, his seat was empty.  Yes, my heart was ripped out.  It was awful.  I was sad.  I missed him terribly.         

He is officially a Deacon.  His Dad performed the ordnance for him, and it was really powerful.  Justice selected the other men involved based on his respect and love for them, and I am thankful that he had such strong men around him today.  

This is his journal entry from today:

 Hi!!!!!! It's Justice. Today I got the Aaronic Priesthood at church.  I'm officially a Deacon and I am in Young Men.  My dad ordained me.  It was very very very very VERY cool and exciting, but I will miss my mom and won't spend 3rd hour in primary with her anymore.  I was very excited that I got the priesthood though.  I was soooo happy in 1st hour because I actually earned my Faith In God Award.  My parents were so proud of me.  I had a pretty good day at church. That's how my day was. Wait, I almost forgot, I would like to say thanks to everyone who helped me get to where I am now. You guys are AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

He was excited.  And I am happy for him.  He acknowledges it will be an adjustment, going from playing musical chairs in Primary to actually teaching the lessons to his peer group on Sunday, but I know he will do well.  I am thankful for the strong example that The Coach sets for him every day.  And I am thankful for the example that he will set for Jack and Bo in the future.  

Congratulations Justice, we are so proud of you and love you very much.  I am looking forward to the future, watching you grow and mature.  You indeed have a bright future ahead of you, and I'm thankful to be a part of it.