Sunday Reflection: Baptism

One of many things I appreciate about Pastor Scott is his willingness to try things. We held a baptism yesterday and unlike previous baptisms, this one was held outside. We set up the inflatable pool just outside the auditorium and baptized seven individuals. It was neat to see a daycare employee and a Lititz Christian alum take the step of baptism, especially since both have started attended Grace in just the past year or two.

Fortunately, it wasn't until the pool was setup outside that it was learned that if you overfill the pool, it collapses. It would've been interesting had that been learned in doors!

There's something about an outdoor baptism for me, whether it's the public proclamation aspect of the event or the memories it stirs of so many outdoor baptisms in rivers, public swimming pools, lakes and oceans throughout my childhood in the Philippines.

On the other hand, whether it was because the audience was able to get right up to the pool or the natural lighting conditions, it was hard to ignore just how awkward it is to baptize in a not-deep-enough pool. The problem solver/logistician that I am, I was ready to put in a real pool on the spot. I don't have the data to back it up, but I think we'll find that chiropractic visits increase after each Grace Church baptism!

Either way, it was neat to be part of the church family, who gathered in a casual, outdoor atmosphere to celebrate with the seven who took the step of baptism.