On a spring day, a mother and her two sons were baptised in the that runs through the village of Rodney Stoke. Their decision to be baptised outdoors reflected both their growing faith and their deep appreciation for nature. Each was immersed in the water - symbolising the beginning of a new life of faith and relationship with God, and reflecting the spiritual transformation they are stepping into.
Though the water was cold, it did not distract from the significance of the moment, which was shared with family, friends, and members of the church community.
Revd Thea Oliver, Associate Priest St Andrew’s Church in Cheddar, who baptised the family said, “It was wonderful. What a lovely way to be baptised. It was a very special and spiritual experience. There were about 25 family and friends, and a few passers-by stopped to watch or ask questions. Everyone there was also happy for me to mark their foreheads with the sign on the cross, using water from the stream. The day itself was beautiful – a lovely sunny spring day. We even had lambs jumping about in the background.”
Readings for the occasion were carefully chosen by the family:
Matthew 3:13-17: The Baptism of Jesus and Do Not Be Afraid. Written by Gerald Markland, based on Isaiah 43:1-4.
Do not be afraid, for I have redeemed you. I have called you by your name; you are mine.
When you walk through the waters, I’ll be with you; you will never sink beneath the waves.
When the fire is burning all around you, you will never be consumed by the flames.
When the fear of loneliness is looming, then remember I am at your side.
When you dwell in the exile of a stranger, remember you are precious in my eyes.
You are mine, O my child, I am your Father, and I love you with a perfect love.
Do not be afraid, for I have redeemed you. I have called you by your name; you are mine.
At the start of the baptism service, the candidates are always asked, “why have you come here/to church today” In response, the family said, "We have come here today to publicly embrace our identity as God's beloved, to say yes to surrendering to God's Divine love, and to commit to living with open hearts in the way of Jesus Christ. "
Reflecting on the day, Thea said, “God is truly good, the Holy Spirit was palpably there amongst us.”