No, it’s not a misprint. The church building where the Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking church meets has been contaminated with mold, and the baptistery is not functional. So when Gabriela wanted to begin her new life with Jesus, we headed to the beach in Pompano Beach.
One of the negative consequences of owning church buildings is that everything tends to be done inside the building, hidden away behind thick walls. It adds to our fortress mentality. Public baptisms have proven to be some of the most outward-focused and impactful things we have done here in South Florida. Many Latino congregations here rent storefront space, and head to the beach for every baptism.
It’s amazing to see people’s reaction to this ancient tradition practiced on a modern beach. Kids gather around. Beach walkers stop to gaze. Boogie boarders take a break. Much of the party atmosphere quiets a bit out of reverence for this holy act. And invariably, there will be some who linger just a little bit longer to find out what this is all about.
What a wonderful way to proclaim our faith in the resurrected Jesus!
Gabriela is from Mexico, and she has found a “home away from home” with the Pompano Beach church. The week before her baptism, she learned that her father had been killed by narcotraficantes. Though shaken, her faith never wavered.
Carlos takes Gabriela’s confession in the presence of the gathered church and beach goers.
The sea was rough that day, but nothing would hinder this determined young lady from beginning her new life in Jesus.
Three of the young men who witnessed the baptism hung around to ask questions. The two church leaders, Carlos Preciado (far right) and Carlos Guzman (second from left), were able to begin a conversation that could lead to more people drawing near to Jesus.
The wind was blowing strong when we gathered for the customary group shot.
Afterward, we took over a little beachside pizza joint to celebrate Gabriela’s birth into Christ.
