Love God || Love People || Make Disciples
February 15, 2026
Click a group number to move to the stories in that section.
Click a group number to move to the stories in that section.
GROUP 1
Becky Taylor (A)
Jayce Garza (B)
Lindsey Bush (A)
Adam VanDussen (B)
Graham Warren (A)
Charleigh Koert (B)
GROUP 2
Belle Grill (A)
Madison VanHoven (B)
Adriana Weaver (A)
Mason VanHoven (B)
Breanna Klomparens (A)
Carson VanHoven (B)
Kevin Vardon (A)
Landon Bittrick (B)
Carter Vardon (A)
Katarina Bittrick (B)
Malia Vardon (A)
Elijah Bittrick (B)
GROUP 3
Dakota Wraight (A)
Eliana Brandsen (B)
Fernado Rodriguez (A)
Lydia Bucher (B)
Austin Bomers (A)
Farrah Andrews (B)
Kaylee Vander Heide (B)
GROUP 4
Isabelle Klingeman (A)
Ledger Strykowski (B)
Seth Hathcock (A)
Luke Hathaway (B)
Zion Stricker (A)
James Allen (B)
Parker Versluis (A)
Jace Velderman (B)
GROUP 5
Open invite for baptism!
Becky Taylor (A)
Jayce Garza (B)
Lindsey Bush (A)
Adam VanDussen (B)
Graham Warren (A)
Charleigh Koert (B)
GROUP 2
Belle Grill (A)
Madison VanHoven (B)
Adriana Weaver (A)
Mason VanHoven (B)
Breanna Klomparens (A)
Carson VanHoven (B)
Kevin Vardon (A)
Landon Bittrick (B)
Carter Vardon (A)
Katarina Bittrick (B)
Malia Vardon (A)
Elijah Bittrick (B)
GROUP 3
Dakota Wraight (A)
Eliana Brandsen (B)
Fernado Rodriguez (A)
Lydia Bucher (B)
Austin Bomers (A)
Farrah Andrews (B)
Kaylee Vander Heide (B)
GROUP 4
Isabelle Klingeman (A)
Ledger Strykowski (B)
Seth Hathcock (A)
Luke Hathaway (B)
Zion Stricker (A)
James Allen (B)
Parker Versluis (A)
Jace Velderman (B)
GROUP 5
Open invite for baptism!
GROUP 1
REBECCA TAYLOR – Age 30, Redwood Campus
I grew up going to church, knowing it's important to go, but in my younger adult years I felt hurt by the church. The pastors and others with big roles said things and acted negatively towards me. As I looked for a new church, I found Family Church and for the first time in many years, my son, Elijah, and I felt accepted. This has really encouraged me to grow in my faith so that I can be the best support for my son as he gets bigger and wants to learn more about Jesus.
I've been through many struggles, often wondering, “Why me God?” My favorite Bible verse has always been Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the PLANS I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans for HOPE & a FUTURE,” but I wasn't so sure that applied to me. I had been dealing with a lot of depression - being a disabled single mother, lots of legal issues going on with my son's bio dad (who has not been in the picture since I was pregnant). One summer night in 2024, I decided to trust God's plan for my life and that I need to be ok with my family being just me and Elijah and not having a husband/ father figure in our lives. A few weeks later, I went to a summer concert night with some friends & got to meet Ben Fuller and he prayed with me and encouraged me to follow God's plans for my life. Seven weeks after, I met John – the most amazing man whose faith comes first in everything – and almost exactly 1 year after praying at that concert, John proposed and we are getting married this fall. John has helped me to grow closer to God and has helped me so much and encouraged me to lean on Christ with all the unknowns in life.
Since deciding to accept Jesus as my savior and following Him, I no longer question, “Why me?” because I know God has plans for every part of life, and when certain things happen, I know He's just working it for my good. Baptism has been heavy on my heart for about a year now and I am ready to publicly take the next steps in my faith.
JAYCE GARZA – Age 6, Ebenezer Campus
I just accepted Jesus into my heart. I’ve been praying more and asking more questions at church. I want to follow and obey Jesus. I am being baptized because I want to welcome God into my heart and obey him.
LINDSEY BUSH – Age 22, Redwood Campus
Before accepting Christ, my life felt confusing, heavy, and discouraging. My parents divorced when I was 10, and the twelve years that followed were challenging. I often felt as though the Lord wasn’t listening to me, and I struggled to understand how two loving parents could fall out of love and, unintentionally, make life so difficult for their children. I got diagnosed with anxiety and have gone through years and years of therapy. During this time, I had little faith in myself, little hope that life would improve, and little faith in Jesus.
My decision to put my faith in Jesus was closely connected to getting involved in Grand Valley State University’s campus ministry. As my hope in Him grew, the anxiety and discomfort I once felt began to ease, giving me the courage to join a life group and become more engaged in his Word. I was even given the opportunity to serve on a GV campus ministry mission trip to Mississippi this spring break. This experience also led me to seek friendships that encourage my spiritual growth and support the direction I want my life to go!
Since choosing to put my faith in Jesus, my life has changed for the better. I’ve seen God work through me in many ways, most recently by easing the anxiety I terribly struggle with. As I’ve learned to trust Him and surrender control, I’ve felt a great weight lifted from my shoulders. Spending time in the Bible has been uplifting and encouraging, helping me understand how I can be a vessel for His purpose and live according to His will.
I am choosing to be baptized to symbolize dying to an old life and being born again in Christ!
ADAM VANDUSSEN – Age 22, Ebenezer Campus
I have been blessed in my life after choosing to follow Jesus. I don't think it's a coincidence that I have had strong believers in my life who I could look up to. I see He has guided my steps in school, work, and my relationship with my fiancé.
I am choosing to be baptized to obey the Lord and show my faith to others.
GRAHAM WARREN – Age 10, Redwood Campus
I asked Jesus to be my Savior one night while listening to Adventures in Odyssey. I grew up in a Christian home and have always known about Jesus. I decided I wanted to follow Jesus because I understand he died for me. My relationship with Jesus means I am trying to become more like Him.
I want to be baptized because the Bible says after you become a Christian you should be baptized. I want to obey Jesus’ commands.
CHARLEIGH KOERT - Age 11, Redwood Campus
I was four when I accepted Jesus, but he wasn't one of my priorities until we moved and then I fully put my faith in him and spent more time with him.
My life has been more awesome and I've felt a sense of peace and calm ever since I put my faith in Jesus. And you have a good feeling when you know Jesus. I am choosing to be baptized because I want to commit to spending more time with Jesus and grow closer to him.
REBECCA TAYLOR – Age 30, Redwood Campus
I grew up going to church, knowing it's important to go, but in my younger adult years I felt hurt by the church. The pastors and others with big roles said things and acted negatively towards me. As I looked for a new church, I found Family Church and for the first time in many years, my son, Elijah, and I felt accepted. This has really encouraged me to grow in my faith so that I can be the best support for my son as he gets bigger and wants to learn more about Jesus.
I've been through many struggles, often wondering, “Why me God?” My favorite Bible verse has always been Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the PLANS I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans for HOPE & a FUTURE,” but I wasn't so sure that applied to me. I had been dealing with a lot of depression - being a disabled single mother, lots of legal issues going on with my son's bio dad (who has not been in the picture since I was pregnant). One summer night in 2024, I decided to trust God's plan for my life and that I need to be ok with my family being just me and Elijah and not having a husband/ father figure in our lives. A few weeks later, I went to a summer concert night with some friends & got to meet Ben Fuller and he prayed with me and encouraged me to follow God's plans for my life. Seven weeks after, I met John – the most amazing man whose faith comes first in everything – and almost exactly 1 year after praying at that concert, John proposed and we are getting married this fall. John has helped me to grow closer to God and has helped me so much and encouraged me to lean on Christ with all the unknowns in life.
Since deciding to accept Jesus as my savior and following Him, I no longer question, “Why me?” because I know God has plans for every part of life, and when certain things happen, I know He's just working it for my good. Baptism has been heavy on my heart for about a year now and I am ready to publicly take the next steps in my faith.
JAYCE GARZA – Age 6, Ebenezer Campus
I just accepted Jesus into my heart. I’ve been praying more and asking more questions at church. I want to follow and obey Jesus. I am being baptized because I want to welcome God into my heart and obey him.
LINDSEY BUSH – Age 22, Redwood Campus
Before accepting Christ, my life felt confusing, heavy, and discouraging. My parents divorced when I was 10, and the twelve years that followed were challenging. I often felt as though the Lord wasn’t listening to me, and I struggled to understand how two loving parents could fall out of love and, unintentionally, make life so difficult for their children. I got diagnosed with anxiety and have gone through years and years of therapy. During this time, I had little faith in myself, little hope that life would improve, and little faith in Jesus.
My decision to put my faith in Jesus was closely connected to getting involved in Grand Valley State University’s campus ministry. As my hope in Him grew, the anxiety and discomfort I once felt began to ease, giving me the courage to join a life group and become more engaged in his Word. I was even given the opportunity to serve on a GV campus ministry mission trip to Mississippi this spring break. This experience also led me to seek friendships that encourage my spiritual growth and support the direction I want my life to go!
Since choosing to put my faith in Jesus, my life has changed for the better. I’ve seen God work through me in many ways, most recently by easing the anxiety I terribly struggle with. As I’ve learned to trust Him and surrender control, I’ve felt a great weight lifted from my shoulders. Spending time in the Bible has been uplifting and encouraging, helping me understand how I can be a vessel for His purpose and live according to His will.
I am choosing to be baptized to symbolize dying to an old life and being born again in Christ!
ADAM VANDUSSEN – Age 22, Ebenezer Campus
I have been blessed in my life after choosing to follow Jesus. I don't think it's a coincidence that I have had strong believers in my life who I could look up to. I see He has guided my steps in school, work, and my relationship with my fiancé.
I am choosing to be baptized to obey the Lord and show my faith to others.
GRAHAM WARREN – Age 10, Redwood Campus
I asked Jesus to be my Savior one night while listening to Adventures in Odyssey. I grew up in a Christian home and have always known about Jesus. I decided I wanted to follow Jesus because I understand he died for me. My relationship with Jesus means I am trying to become more like Him.
I want to be baptized because the Bible says after you become a Christian you should be baptized. I want to obey Jesus’ commands.
CHARLEIGH KOERT - Age 11, Redwood Campus
I was four when I accepted Jesus, but he wasn't one of my priorities until we moved and then I fully put my faith in him and spent more time with him.
My life has been more awesome and I've felt a sense of peace and calm ever since I put my faith in Jesus. And you have a good feeling when you know Jesus. I am choosing to be baptized because I want to commit to spending more time with Jesus and grow closer to him.
GROUP 2
BELLE GRILL – Age 12, Redwood Campus
Before accepting Christ as my Savior, I felt like I was missing something in my life. I felt like I wasn’t able to worship freely, but once I gave my life to Jesus, I was able to worship.
At youth group, Pastor Grant shared a message about different ways people believe in Jesus. I recommitted my life to Jesus when He was praying. My leaders helped with this as well, by telling me about a prayer journal we could share our feelings about God in. After the message I was shaking because I felt like God was in the room with me.
I feel like it has helped a lot with anger, self-control, and forgiving others. My life is more joy filled. I have made better friends and put myself out there. I feel God’s presence a lot!
I am being baptized because I want to fully commit my life to God.
MADISON VAN HOVEN – Age 11, Grace Campus
My relationship with Jesus means that Jesus is someone I can rely on when I am feeling good or bad. I can worship him through singing. I am a child of God and I believe Jesus died on the cross for my sins.
ADRIANA WEAVER – Age 8, Redwood Campus
I submitted my life to Christ this past fall when I was in my 3rd grade Bible class. We were talking about what it means to be one of God’s children. My teacher told me that if I said “stop” to Satan, that he would be fearful of me because I belonged to God. That’s when I decided that I wanted to be on God’s team and to be one of his children forever. I told my mom after school that I wanted to submit my life to Christ and asked her how to do that.
My relationship with Jesus means a lot to me because I know I am a child of God. I think it is so cool to be on God’s side because He always wins the big battles.
MASON VAN HOVEN – Age 9, Grace Campus
I know that I am loved and a child of God. Jesus is the Messiah, he died on the cross for me.
BREANNA KLOMPARENS – Age 22, Redwood Campus
I was raised in the church and remember feeling so close to God when I was young, but quickly lost my way as I got older. Before TRULY accepting Christ into my life, my world was full of anxiety, depression, shame, and absolutely no self-respect. I constantly felt broken and unworthy of true love. I was looking for validation from men and looking to find someone to "fix" or "heal" me on the daily. I ended up in a very emotionally, and physically abusive relationship. I believed I’d NEVER break free from the attachment I had to this man; he was so evil.
I found Family Church one Sunday and Pastor Adam was speaking on relationships and it felt like he was speaking directly to me and my story. I couldn't hold the tears back, and knew that was God telling me I needed to get away from this relationship before something truly bad happened to me, but my flesh wasn't ready to fully give up what I knew I’d have to. I didn't feel I had the strength.
One morning I woke up and knew I needed to email Pastor Adam for urgent prayer. He helped me realize how loved I am by God and that I’m worthy of forgiveness and redemption.
I’ve learned that God thinks differently and very highly of me. After my first real conversation with God, I decided to truly trust Him, and put all my faith into him instead of fleshly desires and seeking validation from others, social media, and men. Now I am unbelievably hooked on God’s Word, and Jesus like I've never experienced before, (seriously I can't put the Bible down.) I knew my old life and ways of living had to be over and left behind, I realized I never want to feel that broken, lost, or empty ever again. God made a switch in me that was so drastic it's hard to put into words. I’m so excited to see what else he does in my new life.
Though the hard parts of my story are very recent, my mindset and day to day has already changed drastically already. I have so much more hope for the future, I've begun to let go of shame and guilt, and have realized how truly worthy I am of God’s love, as well as what it means to love like Jesus and truly be a follower and disciple of the Lord. God has also helped me realize how He views me regardless of my past, and I've begun to understand I'm worthy of love, respect from others, and a hopeful future for Gods plan for my life. YAY!
I want to be baptized to say goodbye to the old me and symbolize my new life as an actual follower of Jesus.
CARSON VAN HOVEN – Age 8, Grace Campus
My relationship with Jesus means that I think about other people before myself and try and care for other people. I am helpful and I believe in Jesus and I believe he died on the cross for my sins.
KEVIN VARDON – AGE 46, Redwood Campus
Before accepting Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, I felt lost. I struggled with depression, anxiety, and loneliness, and often felt unseen and unloved. I searched for my identity in my career, accomplishments, and possessions, believing that success or recognition could fill the emptiness inside me. I sought validation, attention, and acceptance outside of my family and my marriage. Instead of finding fulfillment, I found myself spiraling into self-destructive choices. I was trying to fill a deep void that only grew larger, and it began to affect not only me, but the people I loved most.
My marriage ended in divorce. Friendships fractured. My career shifted, and financial distress followed. The consequences of my choices became impossible to ignore, and I found myself at the end of my own strength and what seemingly I believed I had control over.
Eventually, I came to the realization that nothing in this world could fix what was broken inside me. I began attending Family Church in September of 2022, but it took months for the walls I had built over years to start coming down. Slowly, God began rewiring my heart and my thinking through repeated acknowledgment of my sin, repentance, and asking for forgiveness. During this time, I was in the lowest and darkest place I had ever known. I carried overwhelming guilt, shame, fear, and isolation. I felt completely broken and exhausted. Like there was nothing left I could do in my own strength.
In January of 2023, I was sitting in the back of the church during a service at the Grace Campus when we had a guest worship leader. She vulnerably shared about her own anxiety and the struggles she was facing with one of her children. As she spoke, I felt myself deeply connecting with her story. When she began to sing “Touch of Heaven,” something inside me broke open. The tears came, and I couldn’t hold anything back. As I wept during the song, a sweet elderly woman sitting next to me gently placed her hand on my arm. In that moment, surrounded by worship, truth, and quiet compassion, I felt God’s presence in a way I never had before. At the end of that service, I surrendered my life to Jesus.
Slowly, everything began to change. I found my identity not in what I do or what I have, but in who I am in Christ. I discovered peace through contentment and began seeking truth and guidance through God’s Word. I found joy in the blessing of time and in meaningful, Christ-centered connections. My perspective shifted from asking what I could gain to asking how I could serve others with the same compassion, grace, and love that Jesus has shown me. I began to truly see and experience what it means to be "The Church".
More importantly, I believe my children and my family began to see a transformation in me and through me, that could only be explained as divine. I started pouring into them as God’s Word and other believers poured into me. I have witnessed God’s goodness in my own life and in the lives of others. I have experienced His grace, love, compassion, and protection. Through this journey, I am learning obedience and patience. I am learning to trust that His timing and His plans are always perfect. And for the first time in my life, I feel truly seen, fully known, and deeply loved.
Today, I am being baptized as a public declaration of my faith and my decision to follow Jesus, and to be the spiritual leader my children have deserved from the very beginning. I am no longer living for approval, performance, or the things of this world, but for Christ—who rescued me, redeemed me, and made me new. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17.
LANDON BITTRICK – Age 28, Ebenezer Campus
Before Christ, I kept falling into the same temptations and couldn’t lead my family the way I knew I should. Without Him, everything around me pulled out the worst in me. God kept placing incredible people in my life, and I kept watching from a distance—never fully giving myself to His love. I’ve had powerful encounters with Him, moments where I felt Him tugging at my soul, yet I always let that connection fade. I’ve been addicted to everything except the one thing that could actually change me: His Word. No accomplishment, no money, no possessions ever filled the emptiness inside me. I let work consume me to the point that I missed much of my first son’s early life, chasing things that never satisfied.
The first time I truly felt Jesus’ love was on a missions trip in Holland. Surrounded by kids experiencing God for the first time, I felt peace and a weight lifted off my shoulders. Over the years I tried to improve myself—physically, mentally, spiritually—but every time I got close to God, I slipped away again. I made excuses, avoided worship, avoided baptism, convinced myself that showing up on Sunday was enough. Eventually, I drifted so far that I replaced God with podcasts and self-help. Even then, with only a sliver of devotion, I managed to stop drinking for five years—until I didn’t. I could control my anger—until I couldn’t. My life became a cycle of short-lived improvement followed by the same old patterns.
Recently, I noticed the same issues repeating in my marriage and parenting. I remembered my father‑in‑law telling me I needed to be the rock of my family—and that I couldn’t do that without Jesus as our foundation. We started going back to church, but only halfway, and nothing changed. The chaos in the world started tearing at my mental health, making me argumentative and toxic. But that same chaos pushed me to open my Bible. One night, as I dug through Scripture, connecting verses and prophecies, I felt Jesus speak peace into me—reminding me He’s been here all along, asking why I’m still trying to carry everything alone.
I can’t lose this. I want to surrender to Christ because I know He’s the only source of real peace and salvation. I want to be baptized—not just for myself, but for my wife and kids—because I need His hand in mine. Psalm 119:165 says, “Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.” I don’t want to stumble anymore. I want people—my family, friends, even strangers—to see Jesus in me. I want my sins forgiven. I want to be reborn.
CARTER VARDON – Age 16, Redwood Campus
Before I accepted Jesus Christ, I was living for myself, not for him. I did what I wanted to do and what I thought was right, not what the Bible tells us is right. When I would face obstacles in my life I wouldn’t turn to God, I would turn to my flesh desires and would make it a lot harder to overcome challenges by myself and not with God.
I really started to turn to Jesus when my parents divorced when I was in 6th grade. It was very hard and I never experienced anything traumatic like that before. I struggled heavily with depression, my confidence, and simply understanding myself and who I am. More recently this summer, the loss of a relationship really hurt me and broke me down for a long time. During that time, I turned to Jesus. I read the Bible more, prayed all the time and really started to feel him work inside of me. I really felt the love of Jesus during that hard time, he lifted me out of that pit and made me much stronger than before.
Since putting my faith in Jesus my life has completely changed in the way I view the world, but most importantly, the way I view other people. Suddenly, people’s feelings and needs became really important to me and I want to make people feel seen, heard, loved, cared about, and respected because I know how much it means to me when others make me feel that way.
I am choosing to be baptized because I want to truly allow God into my life and to be obedient to God. Also, expressing my faith publicly and then sharing it with other people so they can see how God is working in me and has changed me. Also, the bible says God calls us to be baptized and to surrender ourselves to him, giving everything we have for him and everything we do to be all for the glory of God.
KATARINA BITTRICK – Age 29, Ebenezer Campus
I grew up with a heavy church/believer background. When I was moving into my adulthood life, I had some traumatic things happen that made me question everything. I gave up and turned away from what I knew could save me from my pain because I was mad at Jesus. In doing so I did things that I am not proud of and some of those things I am now facing the consequences for. I have wanted to show and teach my kids about Jesus but it was difficult for me to do so inside a church when I knew I was living in sin. I felt like I didn’t deserve his forgiveness or love. I haven’t been able to be the best mom and wife I knew I could be. I never felt truly happy like I did when I was in high school when I felt him most in my life before everything happened.
I can’t remember the first time I experienced I felt the love of Jesus. When I was a kid, it was like I always felt it and never had to question its existence. The older I got I didn’t feel it as a constant presence but I still had moments that were stronger than others. The specific moment I remember was when Dan seaborn was speaking at Hope College around 2015-2016. His entire message was about not living with one foot on the rock and the other in the sand because it will never be sturdy. It really moved me and the song after the message that play was Holy Spirit. I remember feeling this overwhelming feeling that brought me to my knees wanting to fully feel his love and forgiveness. Since then, I haven’t felt his love until a week ago when my husband and I decided to go back to church and it was the same message being given again. This past week I’ve watched my husband face things I never knew happened and watch him grow closer to him than he has ever since we were kids. And now I feel that calling me again.
Deciding to follow Jesus has not made my life easier. If anything, it’s made it harder. I’ve had to confess my deepest darkest sins and risk losing everything, but I know I needed to in order to properly do this and get closer or I would never be able to be fully committed. But I have faith that even though it seems dark right now he’s going to pull me through this.
I am being baptized to be close to God again and live my life right for me and my kids and my husband.
MALIA VARDON – Age 14, Redwood Campus
When I was younger, I always knew about Jesus, but never really had a relationship with him. I felt like I had nobody to talk to and had to keep it to myself.
I felt like I wanted to be closer to Jesus when my parents divorced in 4th grade because there was hurt and sadness through it all. It was hard to learn how to accept God’s plan and what he had planned for us. I felt hurt and jealousy when I saw other families together with love and connection within their family.
As I started to learn and accept God’s plan, I realized that He is perfect and right and He knows what’s best for me and my family. I knew I had to change and lean into God knowing that he has my back and he will guide me all the days of my life. I saw that after the divorce we all turned towards God, each developing a stronger relationship with Him. Another example is when a missionary came to our church to speak about her mission work and doing God‘s Will. I felt very inspired and felt like that’s something I may want to do as well.
My life has been so much better since I dedicated my life and went all-in for Jesus. I feel free. I am hyped to learn and continue to grow in my faith. I feel like I can talk to him not only as a Father, but as a friend. I have grown to admire differences in people; I’ve grown to understand that everyone is different, but we are all loved in God’s eyes. I have learned to accept and forgive the people that have hurt me in the past.
I want to publicly show my faith so that others can see His love through my actions.
I am choosing to be baptized because I want to be His child and to be fully cleansed by Him. In Acts 2:38 it states, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit".
ELIJAH BITTRICK - Age 7, Ebenezer Campus
On my 5th birthday, I decided to follow Jesus. I was at Grand Rapids Soccer Society with my friends and family. It makes me want to be a better person. I feel love and better inside.
I am being baptized because I felt in my head one person calling me to do this and another telling me not to. And I knew the one telling me to do it was the right one.
BELLE GRILL – Age 12, Redwood Campus
Before accepting Christ as my Savior, I felt like I was missing something in my life. I felt like I wasn’t able to worship freely, but once I gave my life to Jesus, I was able to worship.
At youth group, Pastor Grant shared a message about different ways people believe in Jesus. I recommitted my life to Jesus when He was praying. My leaders helped with this as well, by telling me about a prayer journal we could share our feelings about God in. After the message I was shaking because I felt like God was in the room with me.
I feel like it has helped a lot with anger, self-control, and forgiving others. My life is more joy filled. I have made better friends and put myself out there. I feel God’s presence a lot!
I am being baptized because I want to fully commit my life to God.
MADISON VAN HOVEN – Age 11, Grace Campus
My relationship with Jesus means that Jesus is someone I can rely on when I am feeling good or bad. I can worship him through singing. I am a child of God and I believe Jesus died on the cross for my sins.
ADRIANA WEAVER – Age 8, Redwood Campus
I submitted my life to Christ this past fall when I was in my 3rd grade Bible class. We were talking about what it means to be one of God’s children. My teacher told me that if I said “stop” to Satan, that he would be fearful of me because I belonged to God. That’s when I decided that I wanted to be on God’s team and to be one of his children forever. I told my mom after school that I wanted to submit my life to Christ and asked her how to do that.
My relationship with Jesus means a lot to me because I know I am a child of God. I think it is so cool to be on God’s side because He always wins the big battles.
MASON VAN HOVEN – Age 9, Grace Campus
I know that I am loved and a child of God. Jesus is the Messiah, he died on the cross for me.
BREANNA KLOMPARENS – Age 22, Redwood Campus
I was raised in the church and remember feeling so close to God when I was young, but quickly lost my way as I got older. Before TRULY accepting Christ into my life, my world was full of anxiety, depression, shame, and absolutely no self-respect. I constantly felt broken and unworthy of true love. I was looking for validation from men and looking to find someone to "fix" or "heal" me on the daily. I ended up in a very emotionally, and physically abusive relationship. I believed I’d NEVER break free from the attachment I had to this man; he was so evil.
I found Family Church one Sunday and Pastor Adam was speaking on relationships and it felt like he was speaking directly to me and my story. I couldn't hold the tears back, and knew that was God telling me I needed to get away from this relationship before something truly bad happened to me, but my flesh wasn't ready to fully give up what I knew I’d have to. I didn't feel I had the strength.
One morning I woke up and knew I needed to email Pastor Adam for urgent prayer. He helped me realize how loved I am by God and that I’m worthy of forgiveness and redemption.
I’ve learned that God thinks differently and very highly of me. After my first real conversation with God, I decided to truly trust Him, and put all my faith into him instead of fleshly desires and seeking validation from others, social media, and men. Now I am unbelievably hooked on God’s Word, and Jesus like I've never experienced before, (seriously I can't put the Bible down.) I knew my old life and ways of living had to be over and left behind, I realized I never want to feel that broken, lost, or empty ever again. God made a switch in me that was so drastic it's hard to put into words. I’m so excited to see what else he does in my new life.
Though the hard parts of my story are very recent, my mindset and day to day has already changed drastically already. I have so much more hope for the future, I've begun to let go of shame and guilt, and have realized how truly worthy I am of God’s love, as well as what it means to love like Jesus and truly be a follower and disciple of the Lord. God has also helped me realize how He views me regardless of my past, and I've begun to understand I'm worthy of love, respect from others, and a hopeful future for Gods plan for my life. YAY!
I want to be baptized to say goodbye to the old me and symbolize my new life as an actual follower of Jesus.
CARSON VAN HOVEN – Age 8, Grace Campus
My relationship with Jesus means that I think about other people before myself and try and care for other people. I am helpful and I believe in Jesus and I believe he died on the cross for my sins.
KEVIN VARDON – AGE 46, Redwood Campus
Before accepting Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, I felt lost. I struggled with depression, anxiety, and loneliness, and often felt unseen and unloved. I searched for my identity in my career, accomplishments, and possessions, believing that success or recognition could fill the emptiness inside me. I sought validation, attention, and acceptance outside of my family and my marriage. Instead of finding fulfillment, I found myself spiraling into self-destructive choices. I was trying to fill a deep void that only grew larger, and it began to affect not only me, but the people I loved most.
My marriage ended in divorce. Friendships fractured. My career shifted, and financial distress followed. The consequences of my choices became impossible to ignore, and I found myself at the end of my own strength and what seemingly I believed I had control over.
Eventually, I came to the realization that nothing in this world could fix what was broken inside me. I began attending Family Church in September of 2022, but it took months for the walls I had built over years to start coming down. Slowly, God began rewiring my heart and my thinking through repeated acknowledgment of my sin, repentance, and asking for forgiveness. During this time, I was in the lowest and darkest place I had ever known. I carried overwhelming guilt, shame, fear, and isolation. I felt completely broken and exhausted. Like there was nothing left I could do in my own strength.
In January of 2023, I was sitting in the back of the church during a service at the Grace Campus when we had a guest worship leader. She vulnerably shared about her own anxiety and the struggles she was facing with one of her children. As she spoke, I felt myself deeply connecting with her story. When she began to sing “Touch of Heaven,” something inside me broke open. The tears came, and I couldn’t hold anything back. As I wept during the song, a sweet elderly woman sitting next to me gently placed her hand on my arm. In that moment, surrounded by worship, truth, and quiet compassion, I felt God’s presence in a way I never had before. At the end of that service, I surrendered my life to Jesus.
Slowly, everything began to change. I found my identity not in what I do or what I have, but in who I am in Christ. I discovered peace through contentment and began seeking truth and guidance through God’s Word. I found joy in the blessing of time and in meaningful, Christ-centered connections. My perspective shifted from asking what I could gain to asking how I could serve others with the same compassion, grace, and love that Jesus has shown me. I began to truly see and experience what it means to be "The Church".
More importantly, I believe my children and my family began to see a transformation in me and through me, that could only be explained as divine. I started pouring into them as God’s Word and other believers poured into me. I have witnessed God’s goodness in my own life and in the lives of others. I have experienced His grace, love, compassion, and protection. Through this journey, I am learning obedience and patience. I am learning to trust that His timing and His plans are always perfect. And for the first time in my life, I feel truly seen, fully known, and deeply loved.
Today, I am being baptized as a public declaration of my faith and my decision to follow Jesus, and to be the spiritual leader my children have deserved from the very beginning. I am no longer living for approval, performance, or the things of this world, but for Christ—who rescued me, redeemed me, and made me new. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17.
LANDON BITTRICK – Age 28, Ebenezer Campus
Before Christ, I kept falling into the same temptations and couldn’t lead my family the way I knew I should. Without Him, everything around me pulled out the worst in me. God kept placing incredible people in my life, and I kept watching from a distance—never fully giving myself to His love. I’ve had powerful encounters with Him, moments where I felt Him tugging at my soul, yet I always let that connection fade. I’ve been addicted to everything except the one thing that could actually change me: His Word. No accomplishment, no money, no possessions ever filled the emptiness inside me. I let work consume me to the point that I missed much of my first son’s early life, chasing things that never satisfied.
The first time I truly felt Jesus’ love was on a missions trip in Holland. Surrounded by kids experiencing God for the first time, I felt peace and a weight lifted off my shoulders. Over the years I tried to improve myself—physically, mentally, spiritually—but every time I got close to God, I slipped away again. I made excuses, avoided worship, avoided baptism, convinced myself that showing up on Sunday was enough. Eventually, I drifted so far that I replaced God with podcasts and self-help. Even then, with only a sliver of devotion, I managed to stop drinking for five years—until I didn’t. I could control my anger—until I couldn’t. My life became a cycle of short-lived improvement followed by the same old patterns.
Recently, I noticed the same issues repeating in my marriage and parenting. I remembered my father‑in‑law telling me I needed to be the rock of my family—and that I couldn’t do that without Jesus as our foundation. We started going back to church, but only halfway, and nothing changed. The chaos in the world started tearing at my mental health, making me argumentative and toxic. But that same chaos pushed me to open my Bible. One night, as I dug through Scripture, connecting verses and prophecies, I felt Jesus speak peace into me—reminding me He’s been here all along, asking why I’m still trying to carry everything alone.
I can’t lose this. I want to surrender to Christ because I know He’s the only source of real peace and salvation. I want to be baptized—not just for myself, but for my wife and kids—because I need His hand in mine. Psalm 119:165 says, “Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.” I don’t want to stumble anymore. I want people—my family, friends, even strangers—to see Jesus in me. I want my sins forgiven. I want to be reborn.
CARTER VARDON – Age 16, Redwood Campus
Before I accepted Jesus Christ, I was living for myself, not for him. I did what I wanted to do and what I thought was right, not what the Bible tells us is right. When I would face obstacles in my life I wouldn’t turn to God, I would turn to my flesh desires and would make it a lot harder to overcome challenges by myself and not with God.
I really started to turn to Jesus when my parents divorced when I was in 6th grade. It was very hard and I never experienced anything traumatic like that before. I struggled heavily with depression, my confidence, and simply understanding myself and who I am. More recently this summer, the loss of a relationship really hurt me and broke me down for a long time. During that time, I turned to Jesus. I read the Bible more, prayed all the time and really started to feel him work inside of me. I really felt the love of Jesus during that hard time, he lifted me out of that pit and made me much stronger than before.
Since putting my faith in Jesus my life has completely changed in the way I view the world, but most importantly, the way I view other people. Suddenly, people’s feelings and needs became really important to me and I want to make people feel seen, heard, loved, cared about, and respected because I know how much it means to me when others make me feel that way.
I am choosing to be baptized because I want to truly allow God into my life and to be obedient to God. Also, expressing my faith publicly and then sharing it with other people so they can see how God is working in me and has changed me. Also, the bible says God calls us to be baptized and to surrender ourselves to him, giving everything we have for him and everything we do to be all for the glory of God.
KATARINA BITTRICK – Age 29, Ebenezer Campus
I grew up with a heavy church/believer background. When I was moving into my adulthood life, I had some traumatic things happen that made me question everything. I gave up and turned away from what I knew could save me from my pain because I was mad at Jesus. In doing so I did things that I am not proud of and some of those things I am now facing the consequences for. I have wanted to show and teach my kids about Jesus but it was difficult for me to do so inside a church when I knew I was living in sin. I felt like I didn’t deserve his forgiveness or love. I haven’t been able to be the best mom and wife I knew I could be. I never felt truly happy like I did when I was in high school when I felt him most in my life before everything happened.
I can’t remember the first time I experienced I felt the love of Jesus. When I was a kid, it was like I always felt it and never had to question its existence. The older I got I didn’t feel it as a constant presence but I still had moments that were stronger than others. The specific moment I remember was when Dan seaborn was speaking at Hope College around 2015-2016. His entire message was about not living with one foot on the rock and the other in the sand because it will never be sturdy. It really moved me and the song after the message that play was Holy Spirit. I remember feeling this overwhelming feeling that brought me to my knees wanting to fully feel his love and forgiveness. Since then, I haven’t felt his love until a week ago when my husband and I decided to go back to church and it was the same message being given again. This past week I’ve watched my husband face things I never knew happened and watch him grow closer to him than he has ever since we were kids. And now I feel that calling me again.
Deciding to follow Jesus has not made my life easier. If anything, it’s made it harder. I’ve had to confess my deepest darkest sins and risk losing everything, but I know I needed to in order to properly do this and get closer or I would never be able to be fully committed. But I have faith that even though it seems dark right now he’s going to pull me through this.
I am being baptized to be close to God again and live my life right for me and my kids and my husband.
MALIA VARDON – Age 14, Redwood Campus
When I was younger, I always knew about Jesus, but never really had a relationship with him. I felt like I had nobody to talk to and had to keep it to myself.
I felt like I wanted to be closer to Jesus when my parents divorced in 4th grade because there was hurt and sadness through it all. It was hard to learn how to accept God’s plan and what he had planned for us. I felt hurt and jealousy when I saw other families together with love and connection within their family.
As I started to learn and accept God’s plan, I realized that He is perfect and right and He knows what’s best for me and my family. I knew I had to change and lean into God knowing that he has my back and he will guide me all the days of my life. I saw that after the divorce we all turned towards God, each developing a stronger relationship with Him. Another example is when a missionary came to our church to speak about her mission work and doing God‘s Will. I felt very inspired and felt like that’s something I may want to do as well.
My life has been so much better since I dedicated my life and went all-in for Jesus. I feel free. I am hyped to learn and continue to grow in my faith. I feel like I can talk to him not only as a Father, but as a friend. I have grown to admire differences in people; I’ve grown to understand that everyone is different, but we are all loved in God’s eyes. I have learned to accept and forgive the people that have hurt me in the past.
I want to publicly show my faith so that others can see His love through my actions.
I am choosing to be baptized because I want to be His child and to be fully cleansed by Him. In Acts 2:38 it states, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit".
ELIJAH BITTRICK - Age 7, Ebenezer Campus
On my 5th birthday, I decided to follow Jesus. I was at Grand Rapids Soccer Society with my friends and family. It makes me want to be a better person. I feel love and better inside.
I am being baptized because I felt in my head one person calling me to do this and another telling me not to. And I knew the one telling me to do it was the right one.
GROUP 3
DAKOTA WRAIGHT – Age 31, Redwood Campus
I am a person who constantly overthinks and this often causes me a lot of anxiety, which in turn would drive me to drink alcohol. I was going through life being a selfish and arrogant person, especially when I was drinking. For the past 5 years, I was a pretty bad alcoholic and things got worst after my father died a few years ago. Relationships have been ruined because I became a different person when I chose to drink.
Leading up to the moment of accepting Jesus as my savior, I felt Him coming after me for some time now but I never really was pursuing him back. I got to a point in my life where I felt like I had lost everything good in my life and was ready to not be here anymore. I have made it to church regularly now and am part of a small group. I have met some great people and just feel very blessed from God to have those people to walk with in life. I have always kept to myself and was a loner type person, but having brothers and sisters in Christ to walk alongside with has made my life a lot better than the road I was on.
Since deciding to put my faith in Jesus, I have been sober for over a month now! I have noticed I don’t have much anxiety at all when things come up or there are situations to deal with. I have been talking to God frequently everyday and getting in His Word when I feel tempted to turn back to my old ways. I have made some great new family with really caring people and feel very blessed.
I am choosing to be baptized to bury the old person I was and can continue this new journey of life I am on with Jesus. I would like to be forgiven for all the mistakes and hurt I caused other people.
ELIANA BRANDSEN – Age 9, Redwood Campus
I asked Jesus to be my Savior on December 21st, 2025. I had been going on walks with my dad and talking about getting baptized and what it means to ask Jesus in your heart, and one night I felt like I was ready! I went into my mom and dad's room and talked about it with them both, and we prayed together. I feel less angry since I asked Jesus in my heart, and I deleted two video games that I felt were taking up too much of my time. Having a relationship with Jesus means love, forgiveness, and feeling happy!
I am choosing to be baptized because I feel ready - Jesus did it that way. It's like the old you is going in the water and the new you is coming up.
FERNANDO RODRIGUEZ – Age 26, Haven Campus
Before accepting Christ, my life felt lost and hopeless and that I wasn’t good enough and often felt like I wasn’t important. I experienced the love of Jesus in a real and powerful way when he saved my life and showed me that I had purpose. Since putting my faith in Jesus, I feel like a new person and more in tune with the Holy Spirit.
I am choosing to be baptized to publicly proclaim my love for Jesus and my commitment to follow Him.
LYDIA BUCHER – Age 12, Haven Campus
Before accepting Christ, I worried a lot about many things. I felt stressed and unsure. After accepting Christ, I do not worry as much. I feel more peaceful knowing God is with me. I first felt God’s love at a winter camp. That is when I decided I wanted to live for Him.
Since putting my faith in Jesus, my life has changed. I worry less than I did before. I feel calmer and happier. I am choosing to be baptized because I have wanted to do it for a while, and I want others to know about my commitment to Christ.
AUSTIN BOMERS – Age 21, Redwood Campus
I would say my middle school years were the most struggle for me. I was not the best kid to other people in general, so I got in trouble quite a bit. A challenge for me was trying too hard to fit in with what we would call the “cool kids”. There were even times I was trying to be someone else and not be myself.
One of the first times that I really experienced the love of Jesus was on a mission trip/church trip to South Carolina for my old church when I was in middle school. I didn’t really know anyone who was going so I had to get to know some kids there. That trip really made me think about my connection with Jesus because there was no one I was trying to impress, it was just me and Jesus.
Since trusting Jesus as my Savior, I would say everything is going smoothly. There haven’t been too many things in my life where it’s been hard. I can definitely tell that I have become a calmer person over the years, I used to get worked up about the little things and I still do sometimes, but I can control it better. Although I sometimes wonder why Jesus would listen to me, I know He is always there for me.
I’ve considered getting baptized for a couple of years now. There’s always been this little feeling tugging away at me for a while and I just know that it is Jesus wanting me to proclaim my faith for him in front of my friends and family to see that I am a committed follower of Jesus who wants to disciple many others.
FARRAH ANDREWS – Age 15, Redwood Campus
I was born into a Christian household, and I've always believed in God. Now that I am old enough to truly understand that I need to give my life to Jesus, I am ready. I told Jesus I wanted him to live in my heart when I was six, but since then I've grown to realize that there's more to it than just that.
When I was on a mission trip this summer to Jamaica, I had an encounter with God where I asked Him to take away my sins and take me away from the worldly path I was on and felt the burden lift off my shoulders. My parents and my youth pastor told me I could get baptized and to think about it, so I'm done putting it off and want to get baptized.
God has helped me leave a toxic friend group and it has been good for me and my faith journey because before I felt as though I couldn't talk about God without being judged, even at a Christian school. Now that I am following God more and trying to be a better person and a light of Jesus, I have seen a difference in the way I behave, and I want to keep becoming a follower and a disciple of Jesus in the future.
This decision of baptism means to me that I will be publicly proclaiming my faith and continuing to live out my life for Jesus.
KAYLEE VANDER HEIDE – Age 16, Redwood Campus
I was raised in a family that didn’t attend church, so I didn’t truly know Jesus personally, but I have always believed in him. As I’ve grown up, I’ve realized what it means to give my life to Jesus. I now understand that following him isn’t just a belief and it’s a commitment of my whole life. Jesus has become the foundation of who I am and who I am becoming, and I want to take a step forward in my faith, trusting God as my Lord. I don’t just want to be saved but I want to live for Him and honor Him in everything I do.
Last summer I went on a mission trip to Jamaica, and that’s where everything really shifted for me. I experienced Jesus in a way that changed how I saw my life. I realized I needed to walk away from toxic friendships that were pulling me away from God. It wasn’t easy, but I knew I didn’t want to keep going down a path that didn’t honor Him. Since stepping away, I’ve seen so much change in myself, especially in how I think about and treat other people.
There were times when I doubted if Jesus would really help me through things. I wasn’t always strong in my faith. I struggled with being lukewarm, judgmental, and surrounding myself with the wrong people. But even when I wasn’t perfect, God didn’t give up on me. He led me out of those toxic influences and started changing me from the inside out. He’s helping me become a better person.
Baptism means I am publicly proclaiming my faith in Jesus and that I am taking him as my Lord and Savior.
DAKOTA WRAIGHT – Age 31, Redwood Campus
I am a person who constantly overthinks and this often causes me a lot of anxiety, which in turn would drive me to drink alcohol. I was going through life being a selfish and arrogant person, especially when I was drinking. For the past 5 years, I was a pretty bad alcoholic and things got worst after my father died a few years ago. Relationships have been ruined because I became a different person when I chose to drink.
Leading up to the moment of accepting Jesus as my savior, I felt Him coming after me for some time now but I never really was pursuing him back. I got to a point in my life where I felt like I had lost everything good in my life and was ready to not be here anymore. I have made it to church regularly now and am part of a small group. I have met some great people and just feel very blessed from God to have those people to walk with in life. I have always kept to myself and was a loner type person, but having brothers and sisters in Christ to walk alongside with has made my life a lot better than the road I was on.
Since deciding to put my faith in Jesus, I have been sober for over a month now! I have noticed I don’t have much anxiety at all when things come up or there are situations to deal with. I have been talking to God frequently everyday and getting in His Word when I feel tempted to turn back to my old ways. I have made some great new family with really caring people and feel very blessed.
I am choosing to be baptized to bury the old person I was and can continue this new journey of life I am on with Jesus. I would like to be forgiven for all the mistakes and hurt I caused other people.
ELIANA BRANDSEN – Age 9, Redwood Campus
I asked Jesus to be my Savior on December 21st, 2025. I had been going on walks with my dad and talking about getting baptized and what it means to ask Jesus in your heart, and one night I felt like I was ready! I went into my mom and dad's room and talked about it with them both, and we prayed together. I feel less angry since I asked Jesus in my heart, and I deleted two video games that I felt were taking up too much of my time. Having a relationship with Jesus means love, forgiveness, and feeling happy!
I am choosing to be baptized because I feel ready - Jesus did it that way. It's like the old you is going in the water and the new you is coming up.
FERNANDO RODRIGUEZ – Age 26, Haven Campus
Before accepting Christ, my life felt lost and hopeless and that I wasn’t good enough and often felt like I wasn’t important. I experienced the love of Jesus in a real and powerful way when he saved my life and showed me that I had purpose. Since putting my faith in Jesus, I feel like a new person and more in tune with the Holy Spirit.
I am choosing to be baptized to publicly proclaim my love for Jesus and my commitment to follow Him.
LYDIA BUCHER – Age 12, Haven Campus
Before accepting Christ, I worried a lot about many things. I felt stressed and unsure. After accepting Christ, I do not worry as much. I feel more peaceful knowing God is with me. I first felt God’s love at a winter camp. That is when I decided I wanted to live for Him.
Since putting my faith in Jesus, my life has changed. I worry less than I did before. I feel calmer and happier. I am choosing to be baptized because I have wanted to do it for a while, and I want others to know about my commitment to Christ.
AUSTIN BOMERS – Age 21, Redwood Campus
I would say my middle school years were the most struggle for me. I was not the best kid to other people in general, so I got in trouble quite a bit. A challenge for me was trying too hard to fit in with what we would call the “cool kids”. There were even times I was trying to be someone else and not be myself.
One of the first times that I really experienced the love of Jesus was on a mission trip/church trip to South Carolina for my old church when I was in middle school. I didn’t really know anyone who was going so I had to get to know some kids there. That trip really made me think about my connection with Jesus because there was no one I was trying to impress, it was just me and Jesus.
Since trusting Jesus as my Savior, I would say everything is going smoothly. There haven’t been too many things in my life where it’s been hard. I can definitely tell that I have become a calmer person over the years, I used to get worked up about the little things and I still do sometimes, but I can control it better. Although I sometimes wonder why Jesus would listen to me, I know He is always there for me.
I’ve considered getting baptized for a couple of years now. There’s always been this little feeling tugging away at me for a while and I just know that it is Jesus wanting me to proclaim my faith for him in front of my friends and family to see that I am a committed follower of Jesus who wants to disciple many others.
FARRAH ANDREWS – Age 15, Redwood Campus
I was born into a Christian household, and I've always believed in God. Now that I am old enough to truly understand that I need to give my life to Jesus, I am ready. I told Jesus I wanted him to live in my heart when I was six, but since then I've grown to realize that there's more to it than just that.
When I was on a mission trip this summer to Jamaica, I had an encounter with God where I asked Him to take away my sins and take me away from the worldly path I was on and felt the burden lift off my shoulders. My parents and my youth pastor told me I could get baptized and to think about it, so I'm done putting it off and want to get baptized.
God has helped me leave a toxic friend group and it has been good for me and my faith journey because before I felt as though I couldn't talk about God without being judged, even at a Christian school. Now that I am following God more and trying to be a better person and a light of Jesus, I have seen a difference in the way I behave, and I want to keep becoming a follower and a disciple of Jesus in the future.
This decision of baptism means to me that I will be publicly proclaiming my faith and continuing to live out my life for Jesus.
KAYLEE VANDER HEIDE – Age 16, Redwood Campus
I was raised in a family that didn’t attend church, so I didn’t truly know Jesus personally, but I have always believed in him. As I’ve grown up, I’ve realized what it means to give my life to Jesus. I now understand that following him isn’t just a belief and it’s a commitment of my whole life. Jesus has become the foundation of who I am and who I am becoming, and I want to take a step forward in my faith, trusting God as my Lord. I don’t just want to be saved but I want to live for Him and honor Him in everything I do.
Last summer I went on a mission trip to Jamaica, and that’s where everything really shifted for me. I experienced Jesus in a way that changed how I saw my life. I realized I needed to walk away from toxic friendships that were pulling me away from God. It wasn’t easy, but I knew I didn’t want to keep going down a path that didn’t honor Him. Since stepping away, I’ve seen so much change in myself, especially in how I think about and treat other people.
There were times when I doubted if Jesus would really help me through things. I wasn’t always strong in my faith. I struggled with being lukewarm, judgmental, and surrounding myself with the wrong people. But even when I wasn’t perfect, God didn’t give up on me. He led me out of those toxic influences and started changing me from the inside out. He’s helping me become a better person.
Baptism means I am publicly proclaiming my faith in Jesus and that I am taking him as my Lord and Savior.
GROUP 4
ISABELLE KLINGEMAN – Age 16, Redwood Campus
For as long as I can remember, I have believed in God, but before I accepted Christ as my savior, I didn’t understand much about Him or why I should pray to or worship Him. At winter camp, in 8th grade, I learned the importance of reading scripture and praying. I also realized that I need to do what the Bible says. Ever since then I’ve been learning so much about God and continuing to grow in my faith.
After making the decision to be a follower of Jesus and accepting Jesus as my Savior, my life has been so much more fulfilling and purposeful. I want to get baptized because I want to show everyone that I love Jesus and I am willing to follow him no matter what.
LEDGER STRYKOWSKI – Age 9, Redwood Campus
For as long as I can remember, I have known about Jesus. My parents and grandparents have always told me about him. But recently, Jesus became personal to me as I asked Him to be my Savior a couple of weeks ago. I was in my room, and I prayed to Him. I asked Him to fix my heart on the inside because I feel broken sometimes and need His help. I made this decision because I want to be more like Jesus and follow Him.
After that, I got my own Bible and started reading it on my own. Before that, I read different kids’ Bibles too. I bring a notebook with me to church and use it to write down notes about the sermons so I can learn more. I also try every day to do what God and Jesus want me to do by being kind and being a good person.
My relationship with Jesus means a lot to me and is very important to me. I think it is fun and special that I can spend time with Him when I pray. I also like learning more about Him at church and by reading my Bible, because it helps me feel closer to Him.
Jesus has always been a part of my life but now I want to be baptized to show it more. I want to do what He did and obey God, like when Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist.
SETH HATHCOCK – Age 33, Redwood Campus
Before accepting Christ, my life was empty of God's word. I lived a more selfish lifestyle seeking happiness through material things and money. Never truly being satisfied with any of those things. I believe it kept me from being a better son, father and husband as well. Luring me further away from what was right in front of me the whole time - GOD.
I decided to put my faith in Jesus by seeing my wife start attending church and telling me her experiences she was having there and how God was changing her. I really felt like God was trying to reach out to me through my wife and it only became more evident when I started attending church again. I felt strongly that the Holy spirit ignited a fire in me for the Lord and gave me a craving to be closer to him, to learn more about him, and to live for him.
Since making a decision to put my faith in Jesus, my life has been 10x better. I’m a happier son, father, and husband now that I live for God first. In putting God first in my household, He has brought me great comfort in everything I do now. I do not need to worry anymore and instead put everything into God's hand for He has my back now and always.
I am choosing to be baptized to become closer to Jesus.
LUKE HATHAWAY – Age 16, Grace Campus
When I was little, I prayed with my mom to accept Christ and I have always been in the faith. Now that I'm older I believe my faith has become more personal with Jesus. I want to be able to show others Jesus through me.
I feel like I have a stronger desire to follow Jesus. I have wanted to read my Bible more and I feel like I am connecting with Jesus more. I also know what I believe in and I want to share my beliefs with others now.
This decision means repentance of my sins and publicly declaring that I have accepted Jesus as my savior.
ZION STRICKER – Age 7, Redwood Campus
I learned about Jesus at school and love him. I am choosing to be baptized because I love Jesus.
JAMES ALLEN - Age 44, Redwood Campus
Before accepting Christ, I was a firm believer in God. But I didn't think about the story of Christ. I tried my best to follow the rules of God and the Bible. As I saw and felt the love of Jesus and His forgiveness, I decided to put my faith in Him.
Since making this decision, my life has been calmer, I have more direction and am open-hearted to forgive others the way I have been forgiven.
I feel baptism is the next step in my walk with Jesus and it is important to follow his example and a necessary step in my journey.
PARKER VERSLUIS – Age 7, Redwood Campus
I decided to follow Jesus because I love him. I was in the truck with my family when I asked my mom to pray with me, and she helped me pray and ask Jesus forgiveness for my sins.
I am choosing to be baptized because I want to show people that I get to follow Jesus forever.
JACE VELDERMAN – Age 17, Grace Campus
Before I put my faith in Jesus, I felt like I was lost in life. I didn't know what I wanted to pursue. Now that I've accepted Jesus, I feel Him giving me more guidance in my decisions. I want him to be with me every step of my life.
I am choosing to be baptized to take the next step in my walk with Christ and to truly show Jesus that I need him in my life.
ISABELLE KLINGEMAN – Age 16, Redwood Campus
For as long as I can remember, I have believed in God, but before I accepted Christ as my savior, I didn’t understand much about Him or why I should pray to or worship Him. At winter camp, in 8th grade, I learned the importance of reading scripture and praying. I also realized that I need to do what the Bible says. Ever since then I’ve been learning so much about God and continuing to grow in my faith.
After making the decision to be a follower of Jesus and accepting Jesus as my Savior, my life has been so much more fulfilling and purposeful. I want to get baptized because I want to show everyone that I love Jesus and I am willing to follow him no matter what.
LEDGER STRYKOWSKI – Age 9, Redwood Campus
For as long as I can remember, I have known about Jesus. My parents and grandparents have always told me about him. But recently, Jesus became personal to me as I asked Him to be my Savior a couple of weeks ago. I was in my room, and I prayed to Him. I asked Him to fix my heart on the inside because I feel broken sometimes and need His help. I made this decision because I want to be more like Jesus and follow Him.
After that, I got my own Bible and started reading it on my own. Before that, I read different kids’ Bibles too. I bring a notebook with me to church and use it to write down notes about the sermons so I can learn more. I also try every day to do what God and Jesus want me to do by being kind and being a good person.
My relationship with Jesus means a lot to me and is very important to me. I think it is fun and special that I can spend time with Him when I pray. I also like learning more about Him at church and by reading my Bible, because it helps me feel closer to Him.
Jesus has always been a part of my life but now I want to be baptized to show it more. I want to do what He did and obey God, like when Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist.
SETH HATHCOCK – Age 33, Redwood Campus
Before accepting Christ, my life was empty of God's word. I lived a more selfish lifestyle seeking happiness through material things and money. Never truly being satisfied with any of those things. I believe it kept me from being a better son, father and husband as well. Luring me further away from what was right in front of me the whole time - GOD.
I decided to put my faith in Jesus by seeing my wife start attending church and telling me her experiences she was having there and how God was changing her. I really felt like God was trying to reach out to me through my wife and it only became more evident when I started attending church again. I felt strongly that the Holy spirit ignited a fire in me for the Lord and gave me a craving to be closer to him, to learn more about him, and to live for him.
Since making a decision to put my faith in Jesus, my life has been 10x better. I’m a happier son, father, and husband now that I live for God first. In putting God first in my household, He has brought me great comfort in everything I do now. I do not need to worry anymore and instead put everything into God's hand for He has my back now and always.
I am choosing to be baptized to become closer to Jesus.
LUKE HATHAWAY – Age 16, Grace Campus
When I was little, I prayed with my mom to accept Christ and I have always been in the faith. Now that I'm older I believe my faith has become more personal with Jesus. I want to be able to show others Jesus through me.
I feel like I have a stronger desire to follow Jesus. I have wanted to read my Bible more and I feel like I am connecting with Jesus more. I also know what I believe in and I want to share my beliefs with others now.
This decision means repentance of my sins and publicly declaring that I have accepted Jesus as my savior.
ZION STRICKER – Age 7, Redwood Campus
I learned about Jesus at school and love him. I am choosing to be baptized because I love Jesus.
JAMES ALLEN - Age 44, Redwood Campus
Before accepting Christ, I was a firm believer in God. But I didn't think about the story of Christ. I tried my best to follow the rules of God and the Bible. As I saw and felt the love of Jesus and His forgiveness, I decided to put my faith in Him.
Since making this decision, my life has been calmer, I have more direction and am open-hearted to forgive others the way I have been forgiven.
I feel baptism is the next step in my walk with Jesus and it is important to follow his example and a necessary step in my journey.
PARKER VERSLUIS – Age 7, Redwood Campus
I decided to follow Jesus because I love him. I was in the truck with my family when I asked my mom to pray with me, and she helped me pray and ask Jesus forgiveness for my sins.
I am choosing to be baptized because I want to show people that I get to follow Jesus forever.
JACE VELDERMAN – Age 17, Grace Campus
Before I put my faith in Jesus, I felt like I was lost in life. I didn't know what I wanted to pursue. Now that I've accepted Jesus, I feel Him giving me more guidance in my decisions. I want him to be with me every step of my life.
I am choosing to be baptized to take the next step in my walk with Christ and to truly show Jesus that I need him in my life.
GROUP 5
Open invite!
Open invite!