Grateful Joy Abounds at Baptism Service
Pastor Rick Admiraal baptizes Mike at the Newton Correctional Facility.
Denny Van Zanten
Two men made professions of faith and three men were baptized at the Thanksgiving service on Nov. 20 at the Newton Correctional Center in Newton/Pella, Iowa, said Rick Admiraal, pastor of New Life Prison Community Church.
“We had an incredible Thanksgiving service,” said Admiraal whose church was supported by Christian Reformed Home Missions until 2014.
“Before baptizing each person, I joyfully spoke these words: ‘I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit’,” he said.
Later, Mike, one of the men who were baptized, said, “When I came up out of the baptism water, I saw a great bright light and felt full of peace.”
That reminded him, said Admiraal, of Jesus’ words: “I am the light of the world (John 8:12).”
“Thank God these five men are now shining in the light of the Lord. The baptism service also included thanksgiving to God,” said Admiraal.
After singing praise and worship songs, Admiraal preached a sermon based on Matthew 3:13–17, which describes John the Baptist baptizing Jesus in the Jordan River.
“My message focused on Jesus, who leads the way for us in baptism. As is our monthly custom, we observed the Lord’s Supper.”
Service team members helped to serve communion. Other men participated in the worship service through prayer, Scripture reading, and song.
“I definitely want to thank the Lord for bringing the light of the Gospel into a dark prison,” said Admiraal.
