In a moment of profound faith and celebration, eight Jarvis Christian University students were baptized during a special worship service held in the historic Smith-Howard chapel on campus Wednesday, November 13. The service, which drew a crowd of fellow students, faculty, and staff, was a powerful testament to the transformative power of faith and community.
The chapel, known for its soaring stained-glass windows and serene atmosphere, was filled with a sense of reverence as the students publicly declared their commitment to Christ. The event marked a milestone in their spiritual journeys, and for many, it was the culmination of months or even years of reflection, personal growth, and support from campus ministries.
The service began with a moving time of worship led by the student-led chapel singers, whose songs filled the room with a spirit of joy and reverence. As each of the eight students stepped forward to be baptized, their names were called, and the congregation responded with cheers and applause, celebrating the significant step they were taking in their spiritual journeys.
For most, baptism is a symbol of letting go of past mistakes and embracing a new life in Christ. It’s a public declaration that they want to live out their Christian faith every day, not just for themselves but for those around them.
As the students entered the baptismal pool, many were visibly emotional, some wiping away tears of joy. Deciding to publicly profess their faith is an outward sign of an inward transformation.
“Baptism is more than a ritual, it is an act of obedience, a step of faith, and a testimony of the grace God offers to each of us,” said University Chaplain Dr. Sedaric Dinkens. “These students are not just committing to God but are joining a community of believers who will walk with them in their journey of faith." Assisting Dr. Dinkens with the baptisms was SMA member Billy Swanson.
The atmosphere in the chapel was filled with warmth and unity as the congregation gathered around to offer prayer and encouragement. Friends and family members of the students expressed their joy, pride, and support as the students emerged from the water, now symbolically reborn in Christ.
“To see these students take this step, publicly declaring their faith, is a reminder of the importance of community and accountability in the Christian walk,” Dinkens said. “We are not called to live out our faith in isolation, and today, we are celebrating not just individual decisions but the collective body of believers on this campus.”
The service closed with a prayer of blessing over the students, asking for God’s continued guidance and strength as they embark on this new phase of their faith journey. As the congregation filed out of the chapel to attend a short reception in the fellowship hall, many lingered to offer words of encouragement to the newly baptized, knowing that this powerful moment would resonate in their hearts for years to come.
In a college environment where students often face pressure, uncertainty, and the challenges of growing into adulthood, the baptism of these eight students served as a reminder that faith can provide a firm foundation on which to build a life of purpose, love, and community.
Jarvis provides a culturally rich educational environment where students are empowered to achieve their career goals through an inclusive and diverse academic experience that prepares them for a life of significance. Whether a student is a recent high school graduate or a working adult seeking career advancement, Jarvis Christian University develops all of its students intellectually, socially, spiritually, and personally.
