A spirit of joyous celebration and worship filled the sanctuary as one by one, 31 candidates were baptized in the first official baptism ceremony of Holiness Tabernacle Church Of God In Christ, on April 22.
Men and women, young and old adorned in white, rose from their seats and walked with anticipation towards the baptismal pool. With the assistance of ministers, the candidates stepped into the baptism pool and were submerged by Pastor Pruitte.
A collective feeling of newness was shared by all as the ‘old man’ was buried and a new creature in Christ arose from the water.
“I felt so excited,” recalled Bro. Michael Benjamin who was baptized for the first time in his life. “This was an historic occasion. It was HTC’s first baptism and mine. It was kind of like a two for one.”
During brief intermissions, the congregation sung worship songs and glorified the name of Jesus.
“Not only is baptism one of the three ordinances that we adhere to in this church,” said Pastor Pruitte who officiated over the historical event, “this is also a form of worship.”
The Church Of God In Christ observes three ordinances based off its doctrine: communion, feet washing and baptism. With the new baptismal pool, HTC is able to perform all three of the ordinances in its facility.
However, the baptism represents something greater than just being one of the ordinances of our church. It is a stepping stone that has unified Holiness Tabernacle with the vision of our pastor as we strive to not only meet the physical needs of this community but their spiritual needs as well. The baptism of the 31 candidates represents the spirit of Azusa Street that is waiting to burst forth in this community.
“I thank and praise God for Holiness Tabernacle because it’s a church that is teaching God’s way, not man’s way or women’s way, but God’s way,” said Sis. DeLarge. “We’re all climbing up this mountain together where there is hope and joy and we are climbing it together as a church!”
Being submerged in the baptism pool lasted for merely seconds, but coming up in the newness of Christ will last a lifetime.
“I feel like I could go to heaven right now!” exclaimed Bro. Benjamin with a smile that matched his enthusiasm.