Baptisms!

Yesterday was a glorious day indeed. Our kids had been asking about being baptized. We had considered it about a year ago, but after talking with them, I just didn't feel like they truly "got" it, that this was a milestone in their Christian walks, an outward profession of their personal decision.

But a few weeks ago, our pastor announced that we'd be having a baptism service - and to make it even more special, it was going to be held on our one year anniversary of being a "real" church (officially recognized by our denomination, upgraded from a church plant).

We went through the class last Sunday, and the kids both asked our pastor more questions than anyone else (something he even commented on again yesterday).  And while I was certainly excited to have our kids take this step, I was super excited that my dear friend AND her daughter (A's bestie) also were baptized.  They've been attending our church for a couple months now, and her parents even joined us for service yesterday.  Squeal!!  So cool to see the good news of Jesus spreading...

We do not have a church building, and we meet for services in a middle school.  Oddly enough they do not have a baptismal, so we do it outside.  In a horse trough.  Following in Jesus' example, Texas style ;)  And yet another little tidbit: notice the shell necklace? Every single person ever baptized at our church was worn that. OK, just had to add these other shots from our semi-official church photographer. The first is when we were before the church (being introduced, explaining the significance, etc. Hubby was behind me on the steps), then additional water shots, family with the pastor, and kids talking to our pastor's wife. Seriously, I can't stop smiling when I look at these!