Baptism in the LDS Church

A few years back we had an elderly man (50+) who insisted that he be baptized in a river. This became a ‘deal-breaker’ with him and the Ward Mission Leader pushed to let it happen. The Bishop agreed, reluctantly, and two missionaries, my wife and I joined this man with a 15 mile trip to find a suitable place on the river, which included mosquitos, a 3/4 mile hike and one missionary getting swept under,briefly. After 15 months teaching, and only one attendance before baptism, he became a member. He attended 2 or three meetings and has not been back in over 18 months. Clearly the Spirit was not in favor, but did someone drop the ball or not? I say, NO. We search for the elect but we don’t deny the ordnance. My evidence, 3 Nephi 11:14-15. What say you?

Thanks for your comment, James. We all have our agency to choose the paths we take in life. I don’t agree that we just search for the elect, we work to teach everyone and all those who choose to be baptized are baptized. We have also been counseled by President Hinckley that every new member needs three things: A friend, a calling, and to be nourished by the word of God. Even if someone stops coming to church after being baptized we should do all we can to continue to be friends and to share the word of God with them.