The addition of the Santiago family has blessed the New Philadelphia Ward. Maria joined the Church when she was 16 years old. She loved the gospel, and as she learned more, she grew to love the Book of Mormon. Soon after joining the Church, she moved and could not locate the Church in her new hometown. Years later, Maria moved to the New Philadelphia area but did not realize there was a Church locally.
Yasmin, Sister Santiago’s daughter, asked what Church her mom belonged to, and shortly thereafter, the missionaries knocked on their door. Sister Santiago was very excited to be reintroduced to the Church and to be able to introduce her children to the gospel that brought her such joy as a young girl.
Now that she has been reunited with the Church and able to attend every Sunday, she has been a great missionary! She shares the gospel with her friends and sends the missionaries to those who are willing to listen. She is working on FamilySearch so that her 13-year old son, Diego, can go to the temple and do her work.
Diego was baptized in February and ordained a teacher in the Aaronic Priesthood. He is pictured here with his mom and sister at his baptism. Diego is enjoying getting to know the young men in the ward and participating in youth activities. He is well-liked and is known for his infectious smile. He is excited for the day he can go on a mission. He has made it his goal to translate the Book of Mormon into Ixil, a Guatemalan dialect.
Yasmin is nine years old and was baptized soon after turning eight. She loves coming to Church and all the ward activities. She is pictured here at the Primary Fishing Derby that was held at the Center’s farm last summer. She won the award for the biggest fish!
Yasmin has finished reading the Book of Mormon and finds great joy in learning. She is a great addition to the Primary program. She loves learning and speaks FOUR different languages.
The New Philadelphia Ward is very happy to have this wonderful family in our ward.
Akron Ohio Stake News 