Baptism in the Pacific Ocean!

I was blessed yesterday to baptize a young sailor in the Pacific Ocean!

My shipmate Preston was already a believer, but had not been baptized since his profession of faith. After reading scriptures (on his own), just like the Eunuch, he said to me, “Is there a reason why I shouldn’t be baptized today?”

Of course not! However, because I had never baptized anyone before, I had some insecurities about doing it. But when Preston said, “I don’t think I can go another day without being baptized.” That settled the matter. Once we got to the beach, still in our church clothes, we waded out to chest-deep water.

I turned to Preston and said, "Do you believe that Jesus Christ was the son of God?" he said yes. I asked one more question, and then I said, "Preston, I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost." Then I dunked him with one hand while trying to take a picture for him with my phone in the other!

This is Preston going under:
It looks like I caught him as a wave was coming over both of us, but I honestly don't remember it too well! Oh, but the joy of it all. When he came back up, he shook my hand, and we turned back to shore.

I prayed with Preston after returning to base. I warned him that Satan would be looking for him while he was on such a spiritual high, so he would need to be careful.

Preston is already talking about ministry opportunities and, in particular, how to share his faith with his family, especially in light of his baptism yesterday.

Please consider commenting below to send a short message of support to Preston.