n a heartfelt reflection on a transformative Sunday at our church, I find myself reminiscing about the vibrant celebration that took place. Traditionally, our church hosts a special baptism service on a Sunday evening in January, followed by a cherished Soup and Pie social. This year, we decided to bring this celebration into the Sunday morning light, making baptism – the cornerstone of our faith and mission – the focal point of our service. Baptism is more than a ritual; it's a public declaration of faith, a profound act of obedience, and a joyous celebration of God's work in an individual's life. By moving this celebration to a Sunday morning, we aimed to highlight the powerful stories of those choosing to follow Christ and to foster a deeper sense of community within our congregation.
Our church is blessed with diverse worship languages, catering to both traditional and contemporary preferences. This diversity is our strength, and yet, we are one body with a singular message and spirit. This event was an opportunity to bridge our differences, to come together as one community, celebrating the transformative power of baptism and the shared mission of our faith. It was a reminder that our primary purpose is to make disciples, to know Christ, and to make Him known through our actions and stories.
The testimonies and baptisms witnessed on this Sunday were a vivid illustration of faith in action. It was particularly moving for me to baptize my soon-to-be son-in-law, witnessing firsthand the life-changing impact of God's love on an individual. This personal connection made the day even more memorable, serving as a powerful testament to the church's role in nurturing faith and fostering communal bonds.
Celebrating such moments together not only reinforces our commitment to our mission but also reminds us of the joy and hope that come with living out our faith. It was a day filled with meaningful connections, spiritual growth, and communal celebration, highlighting the essence of our journey as followers of Christ.
Mike Rybka,
Lead Pastor
