It was a service of shared celebration among the congregations of Coalville as 10 people – most of whom were teenagers - were baptised by full immersion, with one renewing their baptism vows, in the grounds of Christ Church.
Many friends and family of those being baptised came to show their support, with others joining in via live stream from as far away as the Netherlands and Cyprus.
Bishop Saju was invited to join the celebration, taking to the water and helping to baptise the candidates from both Christ Church and St David’s Church, Broom Leys.
Declaring it a privilege to be there, he said: “It was a wonderful opportunity to see so many making this public declaration of faith, and a beautiful reminder to us all of the transforming power of God, who offers us all new life in baptism.”
Songs of worship, chosen by some of those being baptised, were sung, prayers were offered and testimonies shared before Lotte, Michelle, Marika, Marik, Mariam, Mariatu, Ben, Alex, James, Nathaniel and Dana entered the water.
Dana, who was baptised along with her two sons, said: “Being baptised brought me to a new beginning with our Lord Jesus Christ, made even more wonderful by having my kids baptised alongside me. I had the most amazing feeling of peace, freedom, happiness, and love - beyond what humans are capable of.
“What plans does the Lord have for me? I don't know, but I trust him! I realise I am completely dependent on Him.”
Revd Rhianne O'Rourke, Pioneer Curate in the Coalville benefice, led the service. She said: “The baptisms were a wonderful time of celebrating all the incredible things Jesus is doing in the lives of people in Coalville. To have 11 people give their ‘yes’ to Christ was beautiful, and the show of support both in person and online was humbling.
“The service was especially meaningful to me as I had the privilege of baptising my 13-year-old son. It’s the hope of every Christian parent to pass on and nurture their child’s faith, and to be a part of this moment when he chose to walk with God for himself was spectacular.”
Revd Gill Pinnington, vicar of the Christ Church benefice, also reflected on the day and said: “The baptism service brought our churches together. We were united in supporting those 11 as they made a big step of faith, surrounding them with prayer and praise. It reminded me of my own baptism and was a great encouragement to see God's hand in our midst, building his church."
