Testifying of the Temple
Jude Okekearu was baptised on 28 September 2024. He is from the Ibo tribe in southeastern Nigeria, who are renowned for being educated and hard-working. Jude worked in a bank, but was made redundant when it downsized its workforce. He then gained employment as a hotel manager, but at greatly reduced wages. The opportunity presented itself to come to the United Kingdom doing care work. It was a chance for a new start. He now lives in Kirkcaldy, Scotland, sharing a flat with other Nigerians.
Jude comes from a family of ten children. Two of his siblings have passed on and he was able to submit their names via FamilySearch and take part in performing their proxy baptisms, as well as for many others, in the Preston England Temple on 16 January 2025. He relates his experience:
“I must say I was overwhelmed with excitement at the thought of visiting the temple and the excitement continued upon my arrival. Aside from the welcoming ambience, the inside was heavenly, with workers in completely white suits and a warm smile welcoming you into the temple. I felt a bit out of place with my coloured suit. But on getting into the baptistry, clothed in a completely white suit, I felt the presence of the Holy Ghost. I knew instantly: “This is truly a house of God. This is where I’ve always wanted to be.” I felt a greater peace like I’ve never felt before. It was like I was home again.
Performing my first baptism was an experience I would never forget in my entire life. I think I wasn’t too sure of myself or something, but as I went on, I felt this unusual boldness within and I carried on and didn’t feel like stopping one bit. I was a bit reluctant to leave. I believe that was the power of God working within, and not me.
To be honest, I’m lacking the right words to express my feelings and the miracle I received. It’s just amazing what one can do when you’ve got the Spirit of God within you. When you feel its presence it’s just wonderful. I’m already planning on going back to the temple for a week. I felt I didn’t get enough in just a day or few hours. And I can confidently say that God dwells in our hearts, just as in the temple.”