On July 31, a baptism ceremony for 176 persons was held in Penglai Church in China's coastal Shandong province.
Around 6 o’clock in the morning, under the guidance of the security officers, believers with masks had their temperature taken and registered their information, according to the church. Upon entering the main sanctuary, they were seated at an interval of two seats and more than 1 meter apart.
At 7 am, the baptism ceremony was held as scheduled. Pastor Ning Shubing shared the true meaning of baptism with the congregation, around the theme of “Dying with Jesus”. At 7:30 am, as the believers entering the baptismal pool one by one, Elder Li Yongqian baptized each believer by sprinkling water and immersion.
The oldest person to be baptized was 95 years old. Elder Li said excitedly: “It shows the great grace of God that so many people are willing to be baptized into his name. God loves our church very much.”
The church provided instruction for the believers who studied the basic doctrines and the lesson of Believers Must Read through announcements and the WeChat accounts.
After the baptism ceremony, the church held the first communion service for the new believers, offering lunch and gifts for them.
- Translated by Abigail Wu
