Ivan met the missionaries at a time he least expected it when he was sitting around a campfire. His friend was on the phone next to him talking to the missionaries. The sisters heard Ivan and asked if he’d want to learn more about the gospel. His friend had little interest in the church, but Ivan was intrigued. He said when he first spoke to the missionaries, he felt the Spirit telling him he should listen to them.
A couple of days later, the missionaries met Ivan in person for the first time at the Food City. The sisters were able to teach him about the restored church of Jesus Christ and he met his “baptism buddy,” Brother Leonard. Having Brother Leonard join that lesson was inspired because he made a huge difference in Ivan’s progression and building faith.
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When the sisters invited Ivan to be baptized, he excitedly accepted!
Ivan continued to meet the sisters and his new brothers at the Food City. As the weeks went by, nothing could keep Ivan from preparing. He worked hard to overcome heavy smoking, broken phones, and even frostbite!!
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On March 1, 2026, Ivan Galan was baptized as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Pleasant Ridge Ward. Since then, he hasn’t looked back! Ivan loves Sunday because Sunday is “bread day!” He has found great power in partaking of the sacrament weekly.
Ivan was able to visit the Nashville temple on March 28th. He felt the Spirit really powerfully at the temple and is so excited to go back. Ivan has enthusiasm and style you can’t miss and will be one of the first smiling faces you see at church!
#TKMTenderMercies
Barlows in TKM 