On Saturday, over 7,000 individuals were baptized in the waters off Huntington Beach, California. This event serves as a precursor to an even larger gathering planned for June.
Last year, the annual “Baptisma California” rally saw 6,000 baptisms, but this year’s total reached 7,750—setting a new record.
The day’s activities lasted into the evening, with both men and women, young and old, lining up to publicly express their faith through baptism in the warm Pacific waters. Artists like Cody Kerns and Kari Job from Bethel Music were there as well, captivating the audience.
Attendance reached around 30,000 people.
Pastor Mark France of Ocean’s Church, who facilitated the event, addressed the crowd: “You were part of the biggest baptism in American history. Who believes God can do this in other states?”
The first to be baptized was 71-year-old Joan. She shared with organizers that she had contemplated baptism for 40 years but never pursued it until now.
As she waded into the sea, France said, “We will now baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. We pray for you to rise from these oceans with a new nature and new life.”
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France is involved in organizing the upcoming June 8th event—Baptize America—a nationwide initiative expected to involve thousands of churches participating in what is dubbed the “largest simultaneous baptism in history,” coinciding with Pentecost Sunday.
“We’re about to flood local churches in all states, witnessing a major baptism across our land,” France mentioned.
According to the organizers, this initiative aims to unify local churches as a demonstration of a shared belief in the public declaration of faith through baptism.
“This isn’t just about one church; it encompasses churches across America that are pursuing a common goal,” Baptize America stated on its website.
The message on the site emphasizes that nations and people worldwide can witness God’s work, expressing optimism about America’s spiritual future.
“If God can achieve this in California, He can do it in any state and even around the world. Join the movement now,” the message concludes.
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Photo Credit: ©Baptize California
Originally published on May 5, 2025.
