Youth Minister of 28 years Converted

Yesterday afternoon I had an amazing opportunity to attend (and play the piano) at the baptism of a 40 year old father who has been a youth minister for the past 28 years.

Julio Belzadua has a masters degree in Theology and has been teaching the Gospel for the past 28 years. Julio is the father of 5 children. Julio has been searching for more than the scriptural knowledge for many years and discovered it a year ago when he entered the home of a member of the church. He was looking for the spirit of God and the feeling of peace that so many members of the church have in their lives.

The talks and the ordinances performed yesterday touched the members of the Oxnard 1st Ward so deeply that each person walked out of the church building with tears. Julio even spoke and we learned first hand the great part Heavenly Father has played in his life. Julio has lived the life of a true follower of Jesus Christ and as a result recognized the truthfulness of the gospel and the true church of Jesus Christ when instructed by the missionaries.

I have not been touched so deeply by the baptism and confirmation of a convert since Victor and Devlyn were baptized and confirmed more than 12 years ago. Julio's spirit is true and his life has been conduct so that it is in line with the principles of the gospel. I believe that his wife and children will soon join the church and that their family will be a great influence for good in our ward.