An Individual Experience and Perception of The Act of Baptism

Being baptized at an early age, I feel as I got baptized as a non-believer. Now that I’m older, I believe that Jesus Christ is my savior and I want to recommit my life to God by getting baptized again. I just didn’t know the right time to get baptized again but I knew the spirit would come over me.

I was invited on a church beach retreat that took all 1,836 high school church members in order to get closer to God. By me having the wrong attitude and intentions, I was just going because it was in Orange Beach, Alabama, to be with friends, and to meet other high school students. Shockingly, this was the week I furthered my relationship with God and got re-baptized on June 10, 2010. I had no clue that this church retreat, when I came for the wrong intentions, would change my life forever.

From day one, I was hit with Gods spirit. Every morning while in Alabama, all high school students would sit quietly on the beach and have silent sounds. Silent sounds are a time to think about God and listen to him. Looking at the beautiful sky God created while hearing the soothing sounds of the waves, shore, and seagulls. There are no distractions; it’s just you, Gods’ word, and his beautiful creations. It feels very refreshing to leave the peaceful beach energized and feeling Gods inspiration.

We also had powerful worship services every night in one huge room. The room was filled with all of the 1,836 of us as we praised Gods name. Just about every student had tears in their eyes and was lifting their hands to God. It was great to experience this with others that were my age and struggle with similar problems as a teenager.

The baptism was very emotional. Although baptism will not get you into heaven, it is symbolic and gives you a renewed feeling. I felt relieved and a more closeness to God. I truly accepted Jesus and confessed all of my sins. It was an unforgettable moment.