Baptisms at Blackley Baptist Church
Sunday August 9th was a very joyful morning at Blackley Baptist Church as we gathered to celebrate the baptisms of Joan, Jamie and Vish, led by Jojnt Ministers, the Revds Andy and Jo Williams. The baptistry is in the hall beneath Blackley Chapel and it had not been used for baptisms since 2019. The congregation of about 50 comprising regulars, relatives, friends and visitors were delighted and moved by the baptisms.
Joan said, “I’ve been involved in churches all my life and made promises of commitment to various churches and for different roles, but this is the first time I’ve had the opportunity to express my faith through believer’s baptism and make promises to God. That’s what’s most important to me in being baptised today.”
Jamie said, as I prepare to step into the waters of baptism, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and peace. This moment is not about me being perfect, but about celebrating a Saviour who is. Choosing to be baptized at a Baptist church means I am publicly declaring my personal decision to follow Jesus Christ. Going down into the water is a powerful symbol of burying my past mistakes, my old fears, and my life apart from God. Coming up out of the water represents rising into a completely new life, clean and made whole by His grace. This is my public "yes" to Jesus. It is my way of saying that my life belongs to Him, and that I am ready to walk in His footsteps. I am incredibly thankful for this new beginning and excited to journey forward as a dedicated member of His church family.
Vish, who is an asylum seeker, said, “I’m so moved and amazed to be baptised today. I’ve come to faith in God through the love and friendship this church has shown to me and I’m delighted to express my new faith in baptism. I know God will be with me for the future.”
Having been baptized all three were welcomed into church membership during the sharing of Communion. A great day, for which we are deeply grateful to God working among us.
You can find out more about the ministry of Blackley Baptist Church from their Website page here.