Hundreds of churches across California worked together over Pentecost Sunday weekend to baptize approximately 12,000 people as part of the “Baptize California” campaign, billed as one of the largest simultaneous water baptism events in history. was given. More than 6,000 people were baptized at the campaign’s headquarters in Huntington Beach, Calif., and another 6,000 at participating churches across the state during Saturday and Sunday’s events, according to preliminary numbers cited in . face wire.
The event follows last year’s Baptism SoCal event, where more than 4,000 people were baptized at Pirates Cove in Corona del Mar, California, and organizers are already planning baptisms nationwide. . baptize America Campaign for Pentecost Sunday (June 8th) 2025.They say this will be a ‘historic day’ across the US
The baptism in California was also historic. Thousands of people gathered on a sunny day in Huntington Beach to proclaim the name of Christ and begin a journey of faith. Churches of various denominations came together for this event, not only in Huntington Beach but across the state. Artists such as Bethel Music, SEU Worship and Bodie led the Huntington Beach congregation in worship.
“Best day ever. God made it! Thank you to everyone who made it happen,” Francie wrote on Instagram. “Jesus gets all the glory and California begins another wave of awakening.”
Francie said that because of the “growing recovery and spiritual hunger among individuals and churches in California that is fostering a sense of unity and promoting a widespread spiritual awakening,” “God We believe there’s more in store for California.”
His wife and co-pastor Rachel Francie said she “saw hearts healed, lives changed and many souls given to Christ” at the Huntington Beach site.
“Despite the naysayers and those who curse this state, we confidently declare that God loves California!” she Said. “He has a plan and a purpose for this land and people. We are witnessing a new outpouring of the Spirit of Christ, a rekindling of faith, a movement of unity within the body of Christ, and an undeniable hope.” .”
Sandals Church in Southern California is one of the congregations that participated and baptized individuals on its campus.
“This is the largest baptismal gathering in state history, and that’s why I wanted to be a part of it,” Sandals pastor, Mark Brown, said. baptist press. “I think this is a huge victory for the Big C church and for me as a Baptist. Often we are known and defined by what we are against, not what we are for.” .That’s why, as one of the largest Baptist churches in the state, we thought it was important to tip our hats.”
Photo credit: Baptize California
Michael Faust has covered the intersection of faith and news for 20 years.His story is published below baptist press, Christianity Today, christian post, of leaf chronicle, of toronto star And that Knoxville News Sentinel.
