Bergfeld Mennonite Church: Celebrating Baptism and Communion (R3)

The sky was overcast and gloomy and the clouds threatened more rain. The occasional low thunder rumble added to the scene. Inside the building, Sunday school classes were just being dismissed, and friendly conversation and greetings were exchanged. Despite the weather outside, the mood in the building on June 22 was one of anticipation and joy.

For the sake of keeping everyone safe and dry, the baptism that was to take place out at Stoesz Pond just down the road was relocated to the sanctuary. Pastor James Friesen’s message centered on the meaning of baptism and encouraged the candidates in their decision of making this public statement and commitment.

Candidates Angus and Carly Klassen shared their testimonies of their faith walk, and how their faith had grown over the years. Pastor James invited them to kneel, and he baptised them individually, pouring water on their heads as a symbol of the life-giving grace that sustains all those who have become children of God. Ernie Buhler, chair of the church board received them into membership of the Bergfeld Mennonite Church.

Pastor James led the congregation through communion with the newly baptized candidates. Every believer was welcome to participate in sharing communion. It was a morning of celebration and joy.

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This article was originally published

in The Recorder Vol 62, No. 3