Setting Apart As a Missionary - September 17, 2023; Starting Home MTC - September 18, 2023

 Elder Copeland was officially set apart as a missionary by President Steve Neeleman, Stake President of the Alpine, Utah Stake.  This is the priesthood ordinance of giving authority to members called to labor in specific responsibilities.  It is done by those having the proper priesthood authority and by the laying on of hands.  He was given a beautiful blessing and many promises were made if he would devote these next two years to the Lord and be obedient in all his responsibilities.

Elder Copeland began his missionary training the very next morning in his home with Zoom meetings coming from the Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah.  This training included daily Spanish lessons, as well as scripture and gospel studies.  He was now wearing his missionary tag which he would be wearing for the next two years!    

Elder Copeland's family dog, Luna, wants to be part of the missionary day, too!

Packing was now taking place, also, with clothing and supplies needed for the next two years.   

  

After a week and a half of training, the day came for Elder Copeland to leave his home and head to the remaining four week's of training in the Provo Missionary Training Center.  It is always hard to leave family, including pets, behind as the missionary leaves.  But, it is also very exciting to get started in the work of the Lord through service and sharing the gospel.  

Family dinner before entering the MTC.  

Elder Copeland's Family

Final hugs before entering the MTC.  We wish Elder Copeland the very best these next four weeks prior to leaving for San Jose, California, where he will begin his service and preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ in the Spanish language.

Attending the Temple for the First Time - September 13, 2023

 Elder Copeland attended the Mt. Timpanogos Temple on September 13, 2023.  It was a beautiful evening for the many family members and friends who were there.

For a better understanding of why temples are so important in the lives of every individual, please click on the link below:

Why the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Builds Temples

Receiving the Melchizedek Priesthood

In the Church today, worthy male members may receive the Aaronic Priesthood beginning at age 12. These young men, typically ages 12–17, receive many opportunities to participate in sacred priesthood ordinances and give service. As they worthily fulfill their duties, they act in the name of the Lord to help others receive the blessings of the gospel.

Upon reaching the age of 18, the higher priesthood, or Melchizedek Priesthood, is conferred upon faithful male members of the Church.  The Melchizedek Priesthood holder may administer in higher ordinances such as bestowing the gift of the Holy Ghost to newly baptized members, healing the sick, and naming and blessing children.

Brady Copeland's uncle, Kevin Copeland, as the Stake High Council Representative, presided at the meeting where his  father, Kyle Copeland, conferred the Melchizedek Priesthood and ordained Brady to the office of Elder by the laying on of hands with other Melchizedek Priesthood holders on September 10, 2023.  This line of authority dates back to Jesus Christ.

George Copeland, Grandfather; Elder Copeland; Kyle Copeland, father; Kevin Copeland, Uncle

Jacob Mumford, Kade Copeland, Connor Copeland, Grandpa George Copeland, Elder Brady Copeland, Carter Copeland, Kyle Copeland, Kevin Copeland

Elder Copeland with parents, Kyle and Kim Copeland

Elder Copeland's brother, Carter and wife Jessica, and cousin Connor and wife Aleece who attended Elder Copeland's Ordination

Speaking in Sacrament Meeting and Farewell Open House

 Elder Copeland spoke in the Utah Alpine 11th Ward Sacrament Meeting on Sunday, September 10, 2023.

His message was about the reasons he chose to serve a mission for the Lord and his testimony of the restored gospel.  He enrolled in two religion classes at BYU in order to further his knowledge of the scriptures and missionary work.  He expressed his gratitude for his wonderful family who has supported and encouraged him, as well as friends and other family members.  He is very excited to learn the Spanish language and begin his service in the California San Jose Mission.

  

Elder Copeland greeting friends and family at the open house held at his home after the Sacrament Meeting.  He is standing in front of the California State Flag and Flower, the California Poppy

 

Elder Copeland with his parents

Elder Copeland's siblings and their spouses.

This was such a wonderful day of family and friends wishing Elder Copeland well as he serves the Lord for the next two years.