Eagle Brook Church Blog

525 People Baptized!

It was a scene like what I picture each time I read the Bible book of Acts-an experience unlike any I’ve had in my lifetime.

The day was bright and sunny. Waves slapped the shore as boats zipped by the manicured beach. A hillside peppered with hundreds of people relaxing on blankets in the shade of large trees. Voices joined in singing songs of praise, new believers described the miraculous transforming work of God in their lives, and hundreds of Christ followers witnessed the public profession of more than 500 individuals through believers’ baptism. It was an amazing afternoon.

This was clearly the work of God. It was a privilege to be part of it.

The Gifts ministry team of Eagle Brook did a phenomenal job organizing the event. From parking to registration to changing tents to refreshments, everything was just right. The weeks of planning paid huge dividends as the crowd swelled to capacity on the shoreline at Northwestern College.

As groups of family and friends took turns lining the beach to watch the baptism of their loved ones, seven waterlogged pastoral teams took pleasure in baptizing individuals, couples and entire families. Some cried tears of joy, others shouted praise, and everyone smiled. I can only imagine the delight in heaven.

As I stood in the water awaiting each baptismal candidate, I envisioned what it must have been like for the first century believers. Luke writes in Acts 2:41NLT, “Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added to the church that day-about 3,000 in all.” What a remarkable experience it must have been for them; what an unforgettable experience it was for all of us. I pray that God will do it again and again and again.

Eagle Brook Summer Lake Baptism