2025.08.24 | Childlike Faith, Public Love: Ryder and Brady’s Baptism at Hope

There are few moments in church life more powerful than witnessing baptism. It’s a step of faith, a public declaration, and a celebration of God’s transforming grace. This past Sunday, under the open sky, our church family gathered for an outdoor service and had the joy of celebrating two young lives, Ryder and Brady, as they took their next step of faith through baptism.

First came Ryder. Quiet and thoughtful, Ryder admitted he felt a little nervous about being baptized in front of so many people. But that’s what makes baptism so beautiful… It's one of the rare times Jesus asks us to make our faith public. Standing in front of his family, friends, and church community, Ryder boldly declared his love for Jesus and his desire to follow Him every day. His courage reminded us that obedience isn’t about comfort, it’s about trust.
Then came Brady. Full of joy and unafraid of the spotlight, Brady’s faith story was just as inspiring. After reading through the Gospel of John last summer, she began asking big questions about Jesus. One evening, after talking with her dad, Brady prayed to receive Jesus as her Savior. In her own baptism application, she wrote simply: “Jesus is my best friend.” On Sunday, with a radiant smile, she confirmed that truth before all of us: Yes, I believe in Him. Yes, I love Jesus. Yes, I’ll follow Him every day.

As Ryder and Brady came up from the water, the cheers of family and friends filled the air... a chorus of joy that echoed the worship song we sang together: “Hallelujah, praise the One who set me free. Hallelujah, death has lost its grip on me.”

Baptism is more than a moment… it’s a declaration that Jesus has already done the saving work, and our lives belong to Him. Watching these two young hearts step into the water was a powerful reminder that God is at work in every generation.

Let’s continue to encourage Ryder and Brady as they grow in their faith. And may their boldness inspire us to remember our own “yes” to Jesus.

This Sunday at 9AM or 10:30AM, we’ll gather again to worship, celebrate, and grow in Christ together. We’d love for you to be part of it.

Watch the short highlight video of Ryder and Brady’s baptism here and celebrate this special moment with us!