Love God || Love People || Make Disciples
August 15, 2026 Baptisms
Holland State Park
Holland State Park
SAVANNAH ALDERINK - AGE 17, GRACE CAMPUS Before I accepted Christ, I felt unsure about life and often felt lost. I knew the difference between right and wrong, but I knew I needed God to strengthen me and guide me. As a teenager, life can feel confusing and overwhelming, and I realized I couldn't figure everything out on my own. I decided to follow Jesus a while ago, but I knew I needed to do my own searching and really understand what I believed. As I began seeking Him, I started to feel His presence in my life and realized how much I needed Him every day. Without Him, I feel lost, and I know I need His grace and peace to move forward. Baptism is a bond and a promise that I am making to Him as I continue to follow Him. Since putting my faith in Jesus, I feel more peace in my life. As a teenager, the world can feel confusing and huge, yet small at the same time, but knowing Jesus gives me something steady to hold onto. I know I can't progress through this life on my own. I need His grace, His peace, and His presence every day. I am choosing to be baptized because I want to publicly honor Jesus as my Lord and show that I have chosen to follow Him. This baptism is a bond and a promise I am making to Him.
BRIANNA BEDOLLA – AGE 29, REDWOOD CAMPUS I grew up going to church off and on, mostly for holidays or special events. I always believed in God and would pray and talk to Him, but I never felt like I had a close relationship with Him. I believed in Christianity, but I didn't know enough about it to really talk about my faith or understand it deeply. I am engaged and getting married on August 19. My fiancé, Ryan, has helped me grow closer to God and understand Christianity better. I wasn't raised in a very religious home, so having someone encourage me and help me grow in my faith has meant a lot to me. We are both choosing to be baptized before we get married because we want God to be at the center of our marriage. Before accepting Jesus, I often felt anxious and like I was carrying everything on my own. Now I have comfort knowing that I am not alone in my struggles. I can turn to Jesus and trust Him instead of trying to handle everything by myself. My faith has brought me more peace and helped me feel closer to God. Although I was baptized as a child, I am choosing to be baptized as an adult to personally dedicate my life to Jesus. I also want to make God the center of my marriage and our life together.
TYLER BOEVE - AGE 25, EBENEZER CAMPUS I decided to put my faith in Jesus more when my dad was diagnosed with cancer. I struggled for a long time to accept that he might not be on Earth anymore but would be in eternal Heaven. Then, one Sunday morning while I was shoveling at Ebenezer, Steve Paige asked if I wanted to go to Bible study. Since then, I’ve felt better about my faith. I’m reading and learning things I have never had before, but I still have many regrets. I am choosing to be baptized to grow my faith.
KEANNA BROWN – AGE 21, REDWOOD CAMPUS My life was very hard and I didn’t understand what was going on in my life at all until I went to church one day and I was woken up by God! My life has changed so much over the past couple months and I believe it was because of Jesus. Since making a decision to put my faith in Jesus, my life has been great. I’m ready to give my life to God.
BRADY BROUWER- AGE 7, GRACE CAMPUS I want to follow God and Jesus. He helps me to not sin and be a better person. I want to be baptized to show God that I love him.
BRENNEN BROUWER- AGE 40, GRACE CAMPUS We always wanted to find a church, we believed in God, and we wanted to show that more in our family but it's always a challenge to take that first step. After going to Grace Campus for almost 2 years, we love starting our week with a life application, learning more about God, seeing our family pray together and growing our faith together. Since putting my faith in Jesus, it has made me a better father, husband, and person. I have felt more secure knowing God is there for me no matter what. I want to be baptized to publicly express my faith in God.
LISA BROUWER- AGE 40, GRACE CAMPUS We always believed in God but never attended church, prayed very much, or actively talked about God in everyday life. I always wanted to get our family involved but it sometimes is challenging to take that first step. After going with a friend we fell in love with messages and community at Grace Campus. After attending Family Church for almost 2 years, serving, and starting as a new disciple, praying as a family, and just loving God has really centered our family. We are ready to show our kids that we are fully committed to Jesus.It has been really great to be a part of a church, something bigger and greater, and having a light in our life to pray and believe. I am getting baptized today to show my commitment to God and Jesus.
LORI CARTER – AGE 60, REDWOOD I was living without purpose and mostly living for myself. I didn't always think about the consequences of my choices. I knew there had to be something more. On Friday night, February 5, 1995, I put my infant son to bed and turned on the TV. I came across a show called Friday Night Testimonies. The woman sharing her story reminded me so much of myself, and I couldn't believe how similar our lives were before Christ. By the end of the show, I was in tears. I knelt in front of the TV and gave my life to Christ. I was filled with so much joy that I was jumping up and down, laughing in my living room. After that, I wanted to tell everyone about Jesus. Some friends left me and my family thought I was crazy, but I knew God had changed my life. I am eternally grateful to my Eternal Father for changing my life. He has changed me in so many ways, and I have seen my friends and family come to know the Lord too. Before my dad died in 2025, I saw him completely transformed by the power of Christ. I will always be grateful for what God has done in my life and my family. I am choosing to be baptized as I renew my life after a very difficult season. God has been faithful, and I am excited for what He has ahead for me!
QUINN COMPAGNER – AGE 10, REDWOOD CAMPUS I asked Jesus to be my Savior when I was in 4th grade. I made that decision because Jesus died for us, and because I love Him. I was at GEMS at my grandma’s church with some other girls when I made that decision. Since I started following Jesus, I have become nicer. My relationship with Jesus means a lot to me. He makes me feel closer to Him and loved. I want to be baptized because I want my sins washed away and to feel renewed. I want to feel closer to God and show others that I believe Jesus is my Savior. I have faith in Him and I’m ready to be baptized again. I was baptized as a baby, but now I’m old enough to make this decision for myself. I’m ready to feel even closer to Him.
SHANNON CONEY – AGE 45, REDWOOD CAMPUS I lived a life mostly focused on myself, traveling and working for my own success. While I thought I was doing well, the important things in my life were falling apart. I experienced divorce, anger, anxiety, and lost trust in people. I had also drifted far from my faith and surrounded myself with the wrong people. On April 19, 2024, after getting home from work, I was at the lowest point in my life. I felt the Holy Spirit lead me to my knees in my living room and pray, something I hadn't done in over 10 years. Through tears, I asked Jesus to save me from myself, my emotions, my addiction, and my sin. I gave my life to Him that day. After praying, I felt a warmth come over me, and I felt completely different. It was like the old me was gone. The pain, anger, hate, anxiety, and addiction were gone, and they were replaced with joy, peace, and a feeling of being loved. Since giving my life to Jesus, I don't worry about the things I used to because I trust Him to handle them. He has brought amazing people into my life, shown me the power of prayer, and given me healthier friendships. He has brought my family closer together and made my career more enjoyable. I wake up each day with joy and gratitude, and He is teaching me how to live for Him and help others. He has shown me that we are stronger together. I'm choosing to be baptized because Jesus asked us to, and baptism is an outward expression of my faith. I gave my life to Jesus and was made new on April 19, 2024. I want to publicly show that I belong to Him.
JENSEN COOK – AGE 16, EBENEZER CAMPUS I am rededicating my life to Jesus and want to get baptized.
JAN EARLE – AGE 70, REDWOOD CAMPUS I grew up in the church and attended church over the years, but as an adult, I wasn't going regularly. I started to feel empty and knew I needed the Lord back in my life. Through family struggles and my work as a nurse, I began to see God working in my life. These experiences helped me realize that God was calling me back to Him. Since putting my faith in Jesus, I feel more at peace with my life. I know I need Him and feel closer to Him. I feel God calling me to be baptized, and I want to follow His call.
EAMON ENNIS – AGE 16, REDWOOD CAMPUS I grew up in a Christian home and have always known about Jesus. When I was 6 years old, I chose Jesus as my Lord and Savior. When I was around 8 or 9, I started reading my Bible regularly and praying. For me, there wasn't a big before-and-after change. My faith has grown slowly as I have grown up. I have been reading my Bible since I was young and started a prayer journal a few years ago. I try to put Jesus first and include Him in everything I do. I am choosing to be baptized because I want to show that I follow Jesus with all my heart and continue to grow closer to Him.
MILA ENNIS – AGE 18, REDWOOD CAMPUS I put my faith in Jesus when I was 8 years old. I grew up in a Christian home and in the church so in a way I have always known about Jesus. I was 8 years old when I was saved and I started to have a personal relationship with Jesus. As a preteen I knew that God answered some very big prayers of mine and I felt very loved by him knowing that he heard my prayers and that He cares for the things I care about. I want to be baptized because it is what Jesus commanded us to do and I am a follower of Jesus and I want to declare this.
SHELBY FAIRFIELD – AGE 29, GRACE CAMPUS Before accepting Christ I felt like I had to be in control of everything and everything was up to me. This came with overwhelming stress, anxiety, and pressure to be perfect or a "good person". I often struggled with my identity; putting my self worth in things I could achieve and do. I wondered what my purpose was that would make my future and career more meaningful. I knew Christians and saw the light of the Lord truly shining through them and I wanted to know more about it. Since becoming a believer, baptism is always something I was interested in. However, I felt as if I was in so many stages of transition that I wanted to be "settled down" in the community that would be performing the baptism. My husband and I have been attending Family Church regularly and call Holland home. So when the opportunity to get baptized came up, I felt a call that it was time.
RYAN HAVERDINK – AGE 30, REDWOOD CAMPUS Before accepting Christ into my life, I really didn’t know my purpose. I spent a lot of time feeding my flesh, making choices that weren’t good for me, and living without much discipline. I wasn’t becoming the man God created me to be. But when I surrendered my life to Christ, everything began to change. He gave me purpose, direction, and a desire to live differently. I’m still growing every day, but through His grace I’m becoming a better husband, father, and follower of Jesus than I ever could on my own. I want to get baptized as a public declaration of my faith in Jesus and my commitment to follow Him wherever He leads me.
MICHAEL HENRY – AGE 48, EBENEZER CAMPUS About a year ago, I fell off the wagon. I had been sober for a good year before I used drugs again. Last year, I got high and stayed high for over a week straight, feeling completely lost in life. I’m still not a bad man—just lost. But things started happening to me that were, without a doubt, Jesus. I don’t understand a lot of what’s happened to me over the last year, but it’s very clear to me today that JESUS IS CALLING ME! I am choosing to be baptized because I believe this is where my true life will start!
CARRIE HINKEN – AGE 25, REDWOOD CAMPUS My spiritual journey started when I went up North with my father and grandfather. It was such a special time with them and in nature. On the ride home I saw the most spectacular rainbow in the sky. Two months later I read the story of the flood and the rainbow as a sign of God’s covenant, and the pieces fell together. On my 24th birthday, my mom gifted me a Bible. I have read it almost every day since and my relationship with God has changed my life in ways I never would have imagined. I found value in myself and clarity in life because He loves me and will not forsake me. I am choosing to be baptized because I want to wash away who I once was. I have not been that person for quite some time now, but it will mean so much to me to be cleansed and fully become new in Him, making my declaration.
JEAN HINKEN – AGE 81, REDWOOD CAMPUS I've always been a Christian, there wasn't a life changing moment I can remember, but I've been growing in my faith. I want to do this as a recommitment to my faith in Jesus.
KIMBERLY HINKEN – AGE 50, REDWOOD CAMPUS I am being baptized because Jesus is my Savior.
RACHEL HINKEN – AGE 53, REDWOOD CAMPUS I’m the classic story: I grew up in the church then fell away as an adult. I’ve been going back and forth between my own wants and Gods will since my 20’s. It was my kids’ example that led me back to Christ! Repeated invitations to join them at Family Church touched my heart. Once I started attending the teaching of Pastor Adam opened my eyes to the TRUTH! Praise God!
RYAN HUIZENGA -AGE 26, EBENEZER CAMPUS I had been struggling with Alcohol and Nicotine and Porn. It was eating away at my marriage and am I have been diving into the word of the Lord. I have committed myself to following the Lord and want to declare it. I have felt his presence with me, pushing me to have faith in his plan and to keep reading His word every day. Things with my wife are still rocky but I am working every day to be the godly husband she deserves and working to love her as Jesus loved the church.
JARED JACOBS – AGE 43, REDWOOD CAMPUS I got saved when I was around 10 years old. Shortly after getting saved, my childhood epilepsy slowed if not stop soon after. I am being baptized because I feel like it's a new me. I'm finally trusting him and letting him guide me and my path. He is the foundation of our marriage and Christ is the cornerstone that holds everything el se together.
COLBIE KENEMER - AGE 11, GRACE CAMPUS For me there really is no before accepting Christ because I have always known him. However, I feel like I didn't really understand a lot of God or Jesus comparing to now. I also don't think I was as grateful or thankful as I am now. Before I wanted to get baptized, I didn't really think of him as much or understand him because I was so young. Now I feel the Holy Spirt in my more and I have more knowledge of the things God has done and is doing in my life. In my opinion, I also have been making better decisions and have been a better person. I have always wanted to get baptized ever since a couple of my friends did, but I wasn't so sure about it and this past easter service I felt the Holy Spirt work inside of me and that's when I fully knew I wanted to be purified publicly.
JOSHUA KONING – AGE 9, REDWOOD CAMPUS During Sunday School and at camp Geneva. I wanted to be forgiven of all of my sins and ask God to help me in my life. I have always believed in Jesus and gone to church but now I want to help friends know Jesus. My relationship with Jesus is stronger when I read the Bible. It makes me happy and feel good. It means that I am praying the God helps me with the hard things in my days and being kind to everyone. I want to be baptized because I want to have a new life. I want to teach people about Jesus.
MADILYN KONING – AGE 10, REDWOOD CAMPUS A few months ago I asked Jesus into my heart. I want to obey him, and I know in my heart he is real. I was on my own in my room. I have changed how I love people by helping and praying for them. My relationship means that I know I will sin, but I will ask for forgiveness and ask God to help me be the person he wants me to be. I know it’s the right decision for me and I want to go to heaven when I die.
LIVIA KOOPMANS – AGE 15, EBENEZER CAMPUS Before accepting Christ, my life was like having a lot of anxiety all the time. The way I lived before I accepted Jesus as Lord of my life was, I would always just sit in my room with depression and not wanting to do anything. A challenge I faced was trying to fit in so badly with others because I thought it would make me feel better. My life now I feel like my confidence in life has been restored. My purpose is amazing! My life before deciding to put my faith in Jesus was a little rough. I was always so depressed, and I felt alone. My decision to follow Jesus impacted my life, because I’ve seen that he’s changed my heart, my friends, my relationship with my family, and my mental state! I am choosing to be baptized because I want to grow closer to God and show that I am choosing to follow him. I know I won’t be perfect, but I want to keep learning, growing, and strengthening my faith.
BRITTANY KUSHION – AGE 31, EBENEZER CAMPUS I grew up believing in Jesus, but I wasn't truly living for Him. I struggled with drinking, partying, and dating. I was baptized in 2018, but later I started a job that pulled me away from God and filled my mind with worldly things. I eventually stopped following the Lord. I truly experienced God's love when my first child was born. When I looked at my daughter and felt how much I loved her, I felt God say, "Imagine how much I love you." In that moment, everything clicked, and I knew I needed to change my life and follow Jesus. A childhood friend brought me to Family Church, and I am so thankful God led me here. Life has been harder, but it has also been more peaceful. I have more confidence and less stress because I know I can trust God, His plan, and His timing. The spiritual battles have been hard, but I know God is with me through them. I am choosing to be baptized to rededicate my life to Jesus, for real this time. I want to set a good example for my children and be baptized together with my husband.
REGINALD KUSHION – AGE 31, EBENEZER CAMPUS I was raised in church and have always believed in God. I grew up Catholic and always thought church was something I had to do, but I didn't really understand why. I knew God was part of my life, but I didn't know what having a relationship with Him meant. After college, I struggled to find a church and understand where I fit in my faith. In high school, after football season ended, I prayed that I could keep playing football. Not long after, I received a letter offering me the chance to play football in college. It was the first time I experienced what felt like an answered prayer, and it helped me see God working in my life. Life feels more meaningful now. I understand my faith better and want God to be part of my everyday life. I also feel a deeper responsibility to raise my children in the church and teach them biblical values. I am choosing to be baptized because I want to grow closer to God and strengthen my relationship with Him.
ALYSSA LAND – AGE 12, REDWOOD CAMPUS I used to lie and manipulate my parents and grandparents to make them fight. I would make up things and cause problems between my family members. I knew I was making things worse, but I kept doing it. When I went to church for the first time, I started believing in Jesus. As I became more involved in church, I started learning more about Him and wanting to follow Him. My life has been better since I put Jesus first. I still make mistakes sometimes and lie or manipulate, but I don't do it as much as I used to. Jesus is helping me make better choices. I want to give my life to Jesus and follow Him.
OLIVIA LAMAIN – AGE 12, REDWOOD CAMPUS I was young when I accepted Jesus, and as I get older, I understand more about what it means to truly follow Him. Without Christ, I would feel lost because I wouldn't have anyone to guide me. When I am worried or upset, I pray and know Jesus is always with me. I was born in London and moved to Michigan when I was 6. Starting school in Zeeland was hard because I didn't know anyone and needed help making friends. I prayed about it, and God answered my prayers. When my family later moved back to London, it was hard to be away from my family in Michigan and start over again. I chose to put my faith in Jesus because I knew He would help me through these challenges. I am thankful for my family in Michigan who continues to support me and pray with me. When I was younger, I didn't pray as much. Now I pray much more and know that God is listening to me. I can give my worries to Him instead of carrying them all by myself. I want to share my faith with others and show God that I want to follow Him and be a faithful servant.
TERRY LECHENET – AGE 60, REDWOOD CAMPUS I felt empty and like something was missing. I didn't understand the Bible very well and was searching for my purpose. I wanted to understand who God was and what He wanted for my life. I started spending more time with a spiritual friend who helped me grow in my faith. Through our conversations and time together, I started to understand Jesus and my faith more. I take more time to pray and think about things differently. I spend more time reflecting on my day and what God may be teaching me. I am learning to trust His direction. We want to follow Christ together as a couple, grow closer to God, and follow His direction for our lives.
MICHELLE LYNEMA – AGE 49, EBENEZER CAMPUS I accepted Christ in my life as a teen when I was attending youth group with friends. And went to church off and on with my family as a young adult. My family wasn't very involved in church which made it difficult to attend. I accepted Christ at a youth weekend retreat with friends I felt the love of Christ come to me in the moment and knew it was what I needed in my life I have seen been a believer but have fallen short in attending church on a regular basis since being married but am still very much a believer and do read and study the Bible from time to time. I definitely feel that my faith has helped me through many things and I feel that it has lead me in direction I have needed. I have always wanted to be baptized and I feel this is a great opportunity to be baptized with my son.
TRENTON LYNEMA – AGE 23, EBENEZER CAMPUS I had a lot of difficult times. No one to fall on or to help me get through problems. Never had the type of culture surrounding me. I hit a low point in life where drinking felt like the solution and my pastor from community reformed talked to me at 10pm at night and helped me talk myself through the situation. I am choosing to be baptized because I want to give my life to Christ and be cleansed.
MARISSA MALNAR – AGE 29, REDWOOD CAMPUS I have always known Jesus and talked to him, but I don’t think I truly understood his power and the love he has for us until last year right before my grandmother had passed. She had always reminded me and encouraged the relationship with Jesus because she knew one day she would be reunited with him in heaven. I would say the day that she passed. I really leaned on Jesus and felt almost closer to him knowing she was up there in full bliss looking down and protecting our family. Since making the decision to become closer with him and put my faith in Jesus, life has completely flipped upside down. I used to be anxious and depressed, but it helps that he is always there, and I have no fear knowing He is always with me. I am looking forward to growing closer with him and spreading the gospel.
ANABELLE MOWERY – AGE 11, EBENEZER CAMPUS I’m choosing to be baptized because at school no one at school that I know of follows Jesus closely and I want to be bolder in my faith and tell others about my own faith journey. I want to say yes to Jesus for what He wants for my life and want others to be encouraged by that.
TAYLOR PARKOS – AGE 25, REDWOOD CAMPUS For a long time, my relationship with faith was based more on obligation than understanding. After experiencing pain, trauma, unhealthy relationships, and moments where I felt lost and alone, I began searching for something deeper and more personal. Moving to a new state gave me the opportunity for a fresh start, and through that season I slowly began to understand God’s love, grace, and presence in my life. I realized He had been with me through every difficult moment, even when I did not recognize it at the time. Choosing to put my faith in Jesus is now a decision I am making for myself with a full heart and true understanding of who He is. I’m choosing to be baptized because I’ve been through seasons that challenged me, shaped me, and brought me closer to understanding who I am and what I believe. This is my way of starting fresh, strengthening my relationship with God, and choosing faith for myself.
MIKE PHILLIPS – AGE 36, REDWOOD CAMPUS I grew up in a Christian home and have known about God my entire life. I came to publicly proclaim Jesus as my Lord and Savior at a profession of faith around the fifth grade. I was baptized as an infant and now would love to do so as an adult. I’ve known about God my entire life, but becoming an adult and having kids, my faith is grown deeper. Morning Jesus has been the best thing I’ve ever done, and I pray all the time that my children come to know him too. I am choosing to be baptized to publicly proclaim my love for the Lord as an adult and set an example for my children.
LINCOLN PIERCE - AGE 10, REDWOOD CAMPUS I asked Jesus to be my savior during church, he helps me get through bad days. I was with my mom and siblings and nana at the grace campus. I make Jesus the center of my life. Jesus is important in my life and means I’m protected by Jesus and I’m not alone. I am choosing to be baptized to have a forever relationship with Jesus.
THEO RIOS – AGE 10, REDWOOD CAMPUS I asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior when I was 8 years old. I made this decision because I came to the realization that I need to be forgiven for my sins and Jesus is the only one who can do that. I was with my siblings at my grandma’s house when I made this decision. I have changed by becoming a more patient person when speaking with others, I have more self-control over my actions, and by being more obedient to my parents and respecting them. My relationship with Jesus means I know I have a Savior who will protect me and that I’m not alone. I feel like I understand myself better and can build stronger relationships because of that. I’m choosing to be baptized because I am ready to publicly declare to others my faith in Jesus.
JOSE SALGADO – AGE 44, REDWOOD CAMPUS Before accepting Christ, my life was always full of problems because of bad choices and alcohol. Then, I felt it when I hit rock bottom. In a cell. Alcohol took so much from my life. But I felt God with me the whole time. Since making a choice to follow Jesus, my life has been blessed. I have an amazing partner for 3 years now. I can see my kids again and have a good relationship with my family. I feel healthy. I am being baptized because I want good in my life.
LUKE SCHOLTEN – AGE 12, REDWOOD CAMPUS Before accepting Christ, my life was uncontrolled. I was more angry and not at peace. My school teacher challenged me to read devotions for 33 days straight and I accepted the challenge. It was during my devotional time in January that I gave my life to Jesus.
Since making a decision to put my faith in Jesus, my life is way better, I now have more peace and know that the Lord is with me. I am choosing to be baptized because I want to take the next step and be obedient to what Christ calls me to do.
ALI SJAARDA – AGE 30, REDWOOD CAMPUS Growing up, I first was introduced to Christ through prayer at bedtime, but we did not attend a church. My eldest brother then brought me to a church as a teenager and I began my journey with Christ. Unfortunately, that church did not make me feel comfortable to grow my faith and I began to withdrawal from it. I then met my now husband and his family who have been devoted believers for generations. Life felt more difficult and meaningless without Jesus. Decisions were harder to make; it was easier to sin which brought me down and left me feeling like a bad person.
The first time I felt the love of Jesus was in Family Church at the Grace Campus. I don’t remember an exact moment of deciding to put my faith into Him, but he has been so good to my family and I the past 5 years, it has just been easy to grow closer to him. I know seeing is not believing but those gentle reminders of His faith have pushed me into a full trust of His love.
Since deciding to put my faith in Jesus, the hard things in life don’t seem so hard anymore. When I have moments of heartache or frustration, I have prayer and that is incredibly comforting. I have also found it easier to form relationships with other followers which has positively impacted both my life and my family. I am being baptized to let my old life go and grow my relationship with Jesus.
KAREN SLAGH – AGE 58, EBENEZER CAMPUS I have been raised in faith and have always known about Jesus. I accepted him as my Savior in high school and had the privilege of growing up in a Christian home, church and community. God’s presence in my life has been so evident; more than I can share in a short paragraph.
In recent years my faith has truly grown as I’ve spent more time in Scripture and been challenged to step out in faith in various ways. God has given me opportunities to be His hands and feet to show his love to others in so many ways. I have learned to hear the Spirit’s voice and be obedient in the opportunities He gives me to share my faith openly with those I meet. As I step into those opportunities, I am so blessed and hear the Spirit’s voice more clearly. I look forward to the opportunities He gives me every day.
Scripture tells us to believe and be baptized. I have not been baptized as a believer and want to step into obedience in this way.
WAYNE SLAGH – AGE 66, EBENEZER CAMPUS I accepted Jesus way back, probably 1979-1980… back in high school/youth group. Putting my faith in Jesus was personal step for me as I looked forward into life and no idea how I was going to do this alone. I wanted him lead me and guide me and save me as I tried to make my way forward. Over the years, I’ve come realize that if you do put your trust in Jesus, if you put your cares on him, if you do let him guide you, he will show you the way.
I am choosing to be baptized because although I was baptized as an infant, accepted Jesus in my teens and have been active in the church, I never actually accepted the Holy Spirit’s calling. The Bible tells us to ‘Believe and be baptized’. I’ve never come forward and been baptized as an adult and I would like to do that.
ELLIE VANDENBOSCH – AGE 7, EBENEZER CAMPUS I love Jesus! He is always with me, even on the days that I’m afraid or need a friend. Because I have accepted Jesus into my heart.
EMERSYN VANDERHEIDE – AGE 14, REDWOOD CAMPUS I accepted Jesus a while ago, I feel like now I pray and go to church more and I feel like I’m giving faith to Jesus more and more everyday! This has made me make this option to get baptized.
My first experience for the love of Jesus was wonderful, it made me feel like I was wanted and cared about. It made me feel happy and I felt like the hard things where not as hard because Jesus was there to help me through it.! I decided to put faith in him because of the people around me and my family and watching them grow because of Jesus made me feel like I needed him in my life and now that I am deciding to put my faith to Jesus I feel like I can be one of those people and have them watch me grow as well!
Since making a decision to put my faith in Jesus, my life now is way stronger than it used to be, I have more faith about Jesus now than I did. I feel like I have grown and got stronger!
I’m choosing to get baptized because I want to show Jesus that I do truly have faith in him and that he will take away my sins!
MACIE VANDERPLOEG - AGE 14, REDWOOD CAMPUS Before accepting Jesus as my Savior, I struggled with not trusting God. I was not following the way God would want me to. I struggled with self-harm and trying to do it on my own and was not trusting in God and leaning on Him like I should have. I would describe the circumstances leading up to the moment I decided to put my faith in Jesus by…
I experienced God's love when I was struggling with mental health and I wanted to give up and was really contemplating suicide. I finally knew then I needed to reach out to God and call on Him to help me and realized He was my way of getting through all the rough times. I struggled with believing for a long time because when I was little my dad was in and out of my life and he would promise to be there for me then never show and he really hurt me. He would come and go when it was convenient for him, to telling me he never wanted me. As a kid I really struggled with it and couldn't understand but once I trusted in God, I knew it wasn’t my fault and it’s him who is struggling with himself. It just really made me lean on God more for guidance.
Since making my decision to put my faith in Jesus, my life have been a lot less stressful. I’ve been able to handle life a lot better. I don’t try and do it on my own anymore and know I can go to God and He will help me through. Being baptized means I am fully trusting in God and giving Him all of me and being a disciple of Him.
ADDILYN VENARD - AGE 7, REDWOOD CAMPUS I was in the hot tub with my mommy, daddy, and my brother and we were talking about church. I surprised my parents by telling them I wanted to be “bapmetized”. When asked why, I explained to them I wanted to honor Jesus. That's why I'm being baptized - because I want to honor Jesus and I have accepted Him in my heart as my Savior.
LUCAS WANROOY - AGE 26, EBENEZER CAMPUS I grew up with a faith in Jesus, but fell out of faith around 2020. I got involved with drugs and alcohol to numb my emotions. I am trying currently to reestablish the faith that I used to have and am making steps to do so.
I first gave my life to Christ as a kid and grew up a believer at Rush Creek Bible Church in Byron Center. I went to a Christian College and struggled while I was there, getting involved with marijuana and alcohol in my freshman and sophomore years before dropping out, and drifting from God over the course of a couple of years. By 2026, I was proclaiming that I don't believe anymore and summed up the Bible to mythology. I had been struggling with money and time management, and my only close friend and roommate was getting involved with harder drugs and heavier drinking. He ended up getting arrested for a domestic assault that he committed in my house in April, and I distanced myself from him quickly but was ready to give up entirely. I got a call from my mom in May that likely saved my life, and I knew I had to make some changes. I got evicted in June, and in July I came to Gateway Mission in Holland, and since then I have finally felt the faith that I used to have returning.
I have felt joy and hope again for the first time in a long time. My family has been supportive of me wanting to make changes, and I feel the Holy Spirit pulling me in. It has been refreshing to have faith again, and I hope that this change lasts. I am being baptized as a recommitment to faith.
CHLOE WINDEMULLER - AGE 15, REDWOOD CAMPUS I grew up in church and attended Christian school. I knew the gospel story of Jesus, that He died on the cross for my sins and He lives. I just never fully and publicly declared Jesus as Lord and Savior over me. I have found it challenging to have boldness to share the gospel and live out His calling to be baptized as I'm more of a quiet person.
When I went on the high school mission trip to El Salvador, I felt and witnessed God's presence while worshipping. I grew closer to Jesus and felt his endless love for me. Since that trip, I have been reading the Bible more and understand how important it is to spend time in God's Word and simply allow time for Him. I am learning to be more bold in my faith and step out of my comfort zone. Because of this, I know Jesus will and has given me the boldness to step out and publicly declare that He is my Lord and Savior. I am being baptized because I want to obey Jesus' command to believe in him and be baptized.
MYLA WINDEMULLER – AGE 14, REDWOOD CAMPUS I have known about Jesus since I was a kid. I believed in Jesus, but never really took the next level of faith. I used to find it challenging being consistent having a routine of making time and making a habit to read my bible and praying.
I felt the call to be baptized on the mission trip last year after I accepted Jesus into my life. I wanted my family to witness me profess my faith in Jesus and be baptized but wasn't the right timing then. Recently, I have been experiencing some unexpected and difficult health issues and chronic migraines and have found my faith growing stronger in knowing who Jesus is; my King, Lord, Savior, friend, and healer. I have felt and seen Jesus heal me. I want to publicly declare Jesus as Lord and Savior of my life and defeater of death and healer of all sickness and diseases!
I have seen and felt my health improve significantly and my migraines have been appearing less intense and not as much. I have felt the prayers of people over my body and migraines as they are not happening near as much. Every night I have been spending time having devotions, praying and talking to Jesus. Worshiping is more spiritual to me and I feel God's presence and love while praising Him. I am being baptized to publicly say yes to Jesus as my Lord and Savior and king over my heart!
BRIANNA BEDOLLA – AGE 29, REDWOOD CAMPUS I grew up going to church off and on, mostly for holidays or special events. I always believed in God and would pray and talk to Him, but I never felt like I had a close relationship with Him. I believed in Christianity, but I didn't know enough about it to really talk about my faith or understand it deeply. I am engaged and getting married on August 19. My fiancé, Ryan, has helped me grow closer to God and understand Christianity better. I wasn't raised in a very religious home, so having someone encourage me and help me grow in my faith has meant a lot to me. We are both choosing to be baptized before we get married because we want God to be at the center of our marriage. Before accepting Jesus, I often felt anxious and like I was carrying everything on my own. Now I have comfort knowing that I am not alone in my struggles. I can turn to Jesus and trust Him instead of trying to handle everything by myself. My faith has brought me more peace and helped me feel closer to God. Although I was baptized as a child, I am choosing to be baptized as an adult to personally dedicate my life to Jesus. I also want to make God the center of my marriage and our life together.
TYLER BOEVE - AGE 25, EBENEZER CAMPUS I decided to put my faith in Jesus more when my dad was diagnosed with cancer. I struggled for a long time to accept that he might not be on Earth anymore but would be in eternal Heaven. Then, one Sunday morning while I was shoveling at Ebenezer, Steve Paige asked if I wanted to go to Bible study. Since then, I’ve felt better about my faith. I’m reading and learning things I have never had before, but I still have many regrets. I am choosing to be baptized to grow my faith.
KEANNA BROWN – AGE 21, REDWOOD CAMPUS My life was very hard and I didn’t understand what was going on in my life at all until I went to church one day and I was woken up by God! My life has changed so much over the past couple months and I believe it was because of Jesus. Since making a decision to put my faith in Jesus, my life has been great. I’m ready to give my life to God.
BRADY BROUWER- AGE 7, GRACE CAMPUS I want to follow God and Jesus. He helps me to not sin and be a better person. I want to be baptized to show God that I love him.
BRENNEN BROUWER- AGE 40, GRACE CAMPUS We always wanted to find a church, we believed in God, and we wanted to show that more in our family but it's always a challenge to take that first step. After going to Grace Campus for almost 2 years, we love starting our week with a life application, learning more about God, seeing our family pray together and growing our faith together. Since putting my faith in Jesus, it has made me a better father, husband, and person. I have felt more secure knowing God is there for me no matter what. I want to be baptized to publicly express my faith in God.
LISA BROUWER- AGE 40, GRACE CAMPUS We always believed in God but never attended church, prayed very much, or actively talked about God in everyday life. I always wanted to get our family involved but it sometimes is challenging to take that first step. After going with a friend we fell in love with messages and community at Grace Campus. After attending Family Church for almost 2 years, serving, and starting as a new disciple, praying as a family, and just loving God has really centered our family. We are ready to show our kids that we are fully committed to Jesus.It has been really great to be a part of a church, something bigger and greater, and having a light in our life to pray and believe. I am getting baptized today to show my commitment to God and Jesus.
LORI CARTER – AGE 60, REDWOOD I was living without purpose and mostly living for myself. I didn't always think about the consequences of my choices. I knew there had to be something more. On Friday night, February 5, 1995, I put my infant son to bed and turned on the TV. I came across a show called Friday Night Testimonies. The woman sharing her story reminded me so much of myself, and I couldn't believe how similar our lives were before Christ. By the end of the show, I was in tears. I knelt in front of the TV and gave my life to Christ. I was filled with so much joy that I was jumping up and down, laughing in my living room. After that, I wanted to tell everyone about Jesus. Some friends left me and my family thought I was crazy, but I knew God had changed my life. I am eternally grateful to my Eternal Father for changing my life. He has changed me in so many ways, and I have seen my friends and family come to know the Lord too. Before my dad died in 2025, I saw him completely transformed by the power of Christ. I will always be grateful for what God has done in my life and my family. I am choosing to be baptized as I renew my life after a very difficult season. God has been faithful, and I am excited for what He has ahead for me!
QUINN COMPAGNER – AGE 10, REDWOOD CAMPUS I asked Jesus to be my Savior when I was in 4th grade. I made that decision because Jesus died for us, and because I love Him. I was at GEMS at my grandma’s church with some other girls when I made that decision. Since I started following Jesus, I have become nicer. My relationship with Jesus means a lot to me. He makes me feel closer to Him and loved. I want to be baptized because I want my sins washed away and to feel renewed. I want to feel closer to God and show others that I believe Jesus is my Savior. I have faith in Him and I’m ready to be baptized again. I was baptized as a baby, but now I’m old enough to make this decision for myself. I’m ready to feel even closer to Him.
SHANNON CONEY – AGE 45, REDWOOD CAMPUS I lived a life mostly focused on myself, traveling and working for my own success. While I thought I was doing well, the important things in my life were falling apart. I experienced divorce, anger, anxiety, and lost trust in people. I had also drifted far from my faith and surrounded myself with the wrong people. On April 19, 2024, after getting home from work, I was at the lowest point in my life. I felt the Holy Spirit lead me to my knees in my living room and pray, something I hadn't done in over 10 years. Through tears, I asked Jesus to save me from myself, my emotions, my addiction, and my sin. I gave my life to Him that day. After praying, I felt a warmth come over me, and I felt completely different. It was like the old me was gone. The pain, anger, hate, anxiety, and addiction were gone, and they were replaced with joy, peace, and a feeling of being loved. Since giving my life to Jesus, I don't worry about the things I used to because I trust Him to handle them. He has brought amazing people into my life, shown me the power of prayer, and given me healthier friendships. He has brought my family closer together and made my career more enjoyable. I wake up each day with joy and gratitude, and He is teaching me how to live for Him and help others. He has shown me that we are stronger together. I'm choosing to be baptized because Jesus asked us to, and baptism is an outward expression of my faith. I gave my life to Jesus and was made new on April 19, 2024. I want to publicly show that I belong to Him.
JENSEN COOK – AGE 16, EBENEZER CAMPUS I am rededicating my life to Jesus and want to get baptized.
JAN EARLE – AGE 70, REDWOOD CAMPUS I grew up in the church and attended church over the years, but as an adult, I wasn't going regularly. I started to feel empty and knew I needed the Lord back in my life. Through family struggles and my work as a nurse, I began to see God working in my life. These experiences helped me realize that God was calling me back to Him. Since putting my faith in Jesus, I feel more at peace with my life. I know I need Him and feel closer to Him. I feel God calling me to be baptized, and I want to follow His call.
EAMON ENNIS – AGE 16, REDWOOD CAMPUS I grew up in a Christian home and have always known about Jesus. When I was 6 years old, I chose Jesus as my Lord and Savior. When I was around 8 or 9, I started reading my Bible regularly and praying. For me, there wasn't a big before-and-after change. My faith has grown slowly as I have grown up. I have been reading my Bible since I was young and started a prayer journal a few years ago. I try to put Jesus first and include Him in everything I do. I am choosing to be baptized because I want to show that I follow Jesus with all my heart and continue to grow closer to Him.
MILA ENNIS – AGE 18, REDWOOD CAMPUS I put my faith in Jesus when I was 8 years old. I grew up in a Christian home and in the church so in a way I have always known about Jesus. I was 8 years old when I was saved and I started to have a personal relationship with Jesus. As a preteen I knew that God answered some very big prayers of mine and I felt very loved by him knowing that he heard my prayers and that He cares for the things I care about. I want to be baptized because it is what Jesus commanded us to do and I am a follower of Jesus and I want to declare this.
SHELBY FAIRFIELD – AGE 29, GRACE CAMPUS Before accepting Christ I felt like I had to be in control of everything and everything was up to me. This came with overwhelming stress, anxiety, and pressure to be perfect or a "good person". I often struggled with my identity; putting my self worth in things I could achieve and do. I wondered what my purpose was that would make my future and career more meaningful. I knew Christians and saw the light of the Lord truly shining through them and I wanted to know more about it. Since becoming a believer, baptism is always something I was interested in. However, I felt as if I was in so many stages of transition that I wanted to be "settled down" in the community that would be performing the baptism. My husband and I have been attending Family Church regularly and call Holland home. So when the opportunity to get baptized came up, I felt a call that it was time.
RYAN HAVERDINK – AGE 30, REDWOOD CAMPUS Before accepting Christ into my life, I really didn’t know my purpose. I spent a lot of time feeding my flesh, making choices that weren’t good for me, and living without much discipline. I wasn’t becoming the man God created me to be. But when I surrendered my life to Christ, everything began to change. He gave me purpose, direction, and a desire to live differently. I’m still growing every day, but through His grace I’m becoming a better husband, father, and follower of Jesus than I ever could on my own. I want to get baptized as a public declaration of my faith in Jesus and my commitment to follow Him wherever He leads me.
MICHAEL HENRY – AGE 48, EBENEZER CAMPUS About a year ago, I fell off the wagon. I had been sober for a good year before I used drugs again. Last year, I got high and stayed high for over a week straight, feeling completely lost in life. I’m still not a bad man—just lost. But things started happening to me that were, without a doubt, Jesus. I don’t understand a lot of what’s happened to me over the last year, but it’s very clear to me today that JESUS IS CALLING ME! I am choosing to be baptized because I believe this is where my true life will start!
CARRIE HINKEN – AGE 25, REDWOOD CAMPUS My spiritual journey started when I went up North with my father and grandfather. It was such a special time with them and in nature. On the ride home I saw the most spectacular rainbow in the sky. Two months later I read the story of the flood and the rainbow as a sign of God’s covenant, and the pieces fell together. On my 24th birthday, my mom gifted me a Bible. I have read it almost every day since and my relationship with God has changed my life in ways I never would have imagined. I found value in myself and clarity in life because He loves me and will not forsake me. I am choosing to be baptized because I want to wash away who I once was. I have not been that person for quite some time now, but it will mean so much to me to be cleansed and fully become new in Him, making my declaration.
JEAN HINKEN – AGE 81, REDWOOD CAMPUS I've always been a Christian, there wasn't a life changing moment I can remember, but I've been growing in my faith. I want to do this as a recommitment to my faith in Jesus.
KIMBERLY HINKEN – AGE 50, REDWOOD CAMPUS I am being baptized because Jesus is my Savior.
RACHEL HINKEN – AGE 53, REDWOOD CAMPUS I’m the classic story: I grew up in the church then fell away as an adult. I’ve been going back and forth between my own wants and Gods will since my 20’s. It was my kids’ example that led me back to Christ! Repeated invitations to join them at Family Church touched my heart. Once I started attending the teaching of Pastor Adam opened my eyes to the TRUTH! Praise God!
RYAN HUIZENGA -AGE 26, EBENEZER CAMPUS I had been struggling with Alcohol and Nicotine and Porn. It was eating away at my marriage and am I have been diving into the word of the Lord. I have committed myself to following the Lord and want to declare it. I have felt his presence with me, pushing me to have faith in his plan and to keep reading His word every day. Things with my wife are still rocky but I am working every day to be the godly husband she deserves and working to love her as Jesus loved the church.
JARED JACOBS – AGE 43, REDWOOD CAMPUS I got saved when I was around 10 years old. Shortly after getting saved, my childhood epilepsy slowed if not stop soon after. I am being baptized because I feel like it's a new me. I'm finally trusting him and letting him guide me and my path. He is the foundation of our marriage and Christ is the cornerstone that holds everything el se together.
COLBIE KENEMER - AGE 11, GRACE CAMPUS For me there really is no before accepting Christ because I have always known him. However, I feel like I didn't really understand a lot of God or Jesus comparing to now. I also don't think I was as grateful or thankful as I am now. Before I wanted to get baptized, I didn't really think of him as much or understand him because I was so young. Now I feel the Holy Spirt in my more and I have more knowledge of the things God has done and is doing in my life. In my opinion, I also have been making better decisions and have been a better person. I have always wanted to get baptized ever since a couple of my friends did, but I wasn't so sure about it and this past easter service I felt the Holy Spirt work inside of me and that's when I fully knew I wanted to be purified publicly.
JOSHUA KONING – AGE 9, REDWOOD CAMPUS During Sunday School and at camp Geneva. I wanted to be forgiven of all of my sins and ask God to help me in my life. I have always believed in Jesus and gone to church but now I want to help friends know Jesus. My relationship with Jesus is stronger when I read the Bible. It makes me happy and feel good. It means that I am praying the God helps me with the hard things in my days and being kind to everyone. I want to be baptized because I want to have a new life. I want to teach people about Jesus.
MADILYN KONING – AGE 10, REDWOOD CAMPUS A few months ago I asked Jesus into my heart. I want to obey him, and I know in my heart he is real. I was on my own in my room. I have changed how I love people by helping and praying for them. My relationship means that I know I will sin, but I will ask for forgiveness and ask God to help me be the person he wants me to be. I know it’s the right decision for me and I want to go to heaven when I die.
LIVIA KOOPMANS – AGE 15, EBENEZER CAMPUS Before accepting Christ, my life was like having a lot of anxiety all the time. The way I lived before I accepted Jesus as Lord of my life was, I would always just sit in my room with depression and not wanting to do anything. A challenge I faced was trying to fit in so badly with others because I thought it would make me feel better. My life now I feel like my confidence in life has been restored. My purpose is amazing! My life before deciding to put my faith in Jesus was a little rough. I was always so depressed, and I felt alone. My decision to follow Jesus impacted my life, because I’ve seen that he’s changed my heart, my friends, my relationship with my family, and my mental state! I am choosing to be baptized because I want to grow closer to God and show that I am choosing to follow him. I know I won’t be perfect, but I want to keep learning, growing, and strengthening my faith.
BRITTANY KUSHION – AGE 31, EBENEZER CAMPUS I grew up believing in Jesus, but I wasn't truly living for Him. I struggled with drinking, partying, and dating. I was baptized in 2018, but later I started a job that pulled me away from God and filled my mind with worldly things. I eventually stopped following the Lord. I truly experienced God's love when my first child was born. When I looked at my daughter and felt how much I loved her, I felt God say, "Imagine how much I love you." In that moment, everything clicked, and I knew I needed to change my life and follow Jesus. A childhood friend brought me to Family Church, and I am so thankful God led me here. Life has been harder, but it has also been more peaceful. I have more confidence and less stress because I know I can trust God, His plan, and His timing. The spiritual battles have been hard, but I know God is with me through them. I am choosing to be baptized to rededicate my life to Jesus, for real this time. I want to set a good example for my children and be baptized together with my husband.
REGINALD KUSHION – AGE 31, EBENEZER CAMPUS I was raised in church and have always believed in God. I grew up Catholic and always thought church was something I had to do, but I didn't really understand why. I knew God was part of my life, but I didn't know what having a relationship with Him meant. After college, I struggled to find a church and understand where I fit in my faith. In high school, after football season ended, I prayed that I could keep playing football. Not long after, I received a letter offering me the chance to play football in college. It was the first time I experienced what felt like an answered prayer, and it helped me see God working in my life. Life feels more meaningful now. I understand my faith better and want God to be part of my everyday life. I also feel a deeper responsibility to raise my children in the church and teach them biblical values. I am choosing to be baptized because I want to grow closer to God and strengthen my relationship with Him.
ALYSSA LAND – AGE 12, REDWOOD CAMPUS I used to lie and manipulate my parents and grandparents to make them fight. I would make up things and cause problems between my family members. I knew I was making things worse, but I kept doing it. When I went to church for the first time, I started believing in Jesus. As I became more involved in church, I started learning more about Him and wanting to follow Him. My life has been better since I put Jesus first. I still make mistakes sometimes and lie or manipulate, but I don't do it as much as I used to. Jesus is helping me make better choices. I want to give my life to Jesus and follow Him.
OLIVIA LAMAIN – AGE 12, REDWOOD CAMPUS I was young when I accepted Jesus, and as I get older, I understand more about what it means to truly follow Him. Without Christ, I would feel lost because I wouldn't have anyone to guide me. When I am worried or upset, I pray and know Jesus is always with me. I was born in London and moved to Michigan when I was 6. Starting school in Zeeland was hard because I didn't know anyone and needed help making friends. I prayed about it, and God answered my prayers. When my family later moved back to London, it was hard to be away from my family in Michigan and start over again. I chose to put my faith in Jesus because I knew He would help me through these challenges. I am thankful for my family in Michigan who continues to support me and pray with me. When I was younger, I didn't pray as much. Now I pray much more and know that God is listening to me. I can give my worries to Him instead of carrying them all by myself. I want to share my faith with others and show God that I want to follow Him and be a faithful servant.
TERRY LECHENET – AGE 60, REDWOOD CAMPUS I felt empty and like something was missing. I didn't understand the Bible very well and was searching for my purpose. I wanted to understand who God was and what He wanted for my life. I started spending more time with a spiritual friend who helped me grow in my faith. Through our conversations and time together, I started to understand Jesus and my faith more. I take more time to pray and think about things differently. I spend more time reflecting on my day and what God may be teaching me. I am learning to trust His direction. We want to follow Christ together as a couple, grow closer to God, and follow His direction for our lives.
MICHELLE LYNEMA – AGE 49, EBENEZER CAMPUS I accepted Christ in my life as a teen when I was attending youth group with friends. And went to church off and on with my family as a young adult. My family wasn't very involved in church which made it difficult to attend. I accepted Christ at a youth weekend retreat with friends I felt the love of Christ come to me in the moment and knew it was what I needed in my life I have seen been a believer but have fallen short in attending church on a regular basis since being married but am still very much a believer and do read and study the Bible from time to time. I definitely feel that my faith has helped me through many things and I feel that it has lead me in direction I have needed. I have always wanted to be baptized and I feel this is a great opportunity to be baptized with my son.
TRENTON LYNEMA – AGE 23, EBENEZER CAMPUS I had a lot of difficult times. No one to fall on or to help me get through problems. Never had the type of culture surrounding me. I hit a low point in life where drinking felt like the solution and my pastor from community reformed talked to me at 10pm at night and helped me talk myself through the situation. I am choosing to be baptized because I want to give my life to Christ and be cleansed.
MARISSA MALNAR – AGE 29, REDWOOD CAMPUS I have always known Jesus and talked to him, but I don’t think I truly understood his power and the love he has for us until last year right before my grandmother had passed. She had always reminded me and encouraged the relationship with Jesus because she knew one day she would be reunited with him in heaven. I would say the day that she passed. I really leaned on Jesus and felt almost closer to him knowing she was up there in full bliss looking down and protecting our family. Since making the decision to become closer with him and put my faith in Jesus, life has completely flipped upside down. I used to be anxious and depressed, but it helps that he is always there, and I have no fear knowing He is always with me. I am looking forward to growing closer with him and spreading the gospel.
ANABELLE MOWERY – AGE 11, EBENEZER CAMPUS I’m choosing to be baptized because at school no one at school that I know of follows Jesus closely and I want to be bolder in my faith and tell others about my own faith journey. I want to say yes to Jesus for what He wants for my life and want others to be encouraged by that.
TAYLOR PARKOS – AGE 25, REDWOOD CAMPUS For a long time, my relationship with faith was based more on obligation than understanding. After experiencing pain, trauma, unhealthy relationships, and moments where I felt lost and alone, I began searching for something deeper and more personal. Moving to a new state gave me the opportunity for a fresh start, and through that season I slowly began to understand God’s love, grace, and presence in my life. I realized He had been with me through every difficult moment, even when I did not recognize it at the time. Choosing to put my faith in Jesus is now a decision I am making for myself with a full heart and true understanding of who He is. I’m choosing to be baptized because I’ve been through seasons that challenged me, shaped me, and brought me closer to understanding who I am and what I believe. This is my way of starting fresh, strengthening my relationship with God, and choosing faith for myself.
MIKE PHILLIPS – AGE 36, REDWOOD CAMPUS I grew up in a Christian home and have known about God my entire life. I came to publicly proclaim Jesus as my Lord and Savior at a profession of faith around the fifth grade. I was baptized as an infant and now would love to do so as an adult. I’ve known about God my entire life, but becoming an adult and having kids, my faith is grown deeper. Morning Jesus has been the best thing I’ve ever done, and I pray all the time that my children come to know him too. I am choosing to be baptized to publicly proclaim my love for the Lord as an adult and set an example for my children.
LINCOLN PIERCE - AGE 10, REDWOOD CAMPUS I asked Jesus to be my savior during church, he helps me get through bad days. I was with my mom and siblings and nana at the grace campus. I make Jesus the center of my life. Jesus is important in my life and means I’m protected by Jesus and I’m not alone. I am choosing to be baptized to have a forever relationship with Jesus.
THEO RIOS – AGE 10, REDWOOD CAMPUS I asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior when I was 8 years old. I made this decision because I came to the realization that I need to be forgiven for my sins and Jesus is the only one who can do that. I was with my siblings at my grandma’s house when I made this decision. I have changed by becoming a more patient person when speaking with others, I have more self-control over my actions, and by being more obedient to my parents and respecting them. My relationship with Jesus means I know I have a Savior who will protect me and that I’m not alone. I feel like I understand myself better and can build stronger relationships because of that. I’m choosing to be baptized because I am ready to publicly declare to others my faith in Jesus.
JOSE SALGADO – AGE 44, REDWOOD CAMPUS Before accepting Christ, my life was always full of problems because of bad choices and alcohol. Then, I felt it when I hit rock bottom. In a cell. Alcohol took so much from my life. But I felt God with me the whole time. Since making a choice to follow Jesus, my life has been blessed. I have an amazing partner for 3 years now. I can see my kids again and have a good relationship with my family. I feel healthy. I am being baptized because I want good in my life.
LUKE SCHOLTEN – AGE 12, REDWOOD CAMPUS Before accepting Christ, my life was uncontrolled. I was more angry and not at peace. My school teacher challenged me to read devotions for 33 days straight and I accepted the challenge. It was during my devotional time in January that I gave my life to Jesus.
Since making a decision to put my faith in Jesus, my life is way better, I now have more peace and know that the Lord is with me. I am choosing to be baptized because I want to take the next step and be obedient to what Christ calls me to do.
ALI SJAARDA – AGE 30, REDWOOD CAMPUS Growing up, I first was introduced to Christ through prayer at bedtime, but we did not attend a church. My eldest brother then brought me to a church as a teenager and I began my journey with Christ. Unfortunately, that church did not make me feel comfortable to grow my faith and I began to withdrawal from it. I then met my now husband and his family who have been devoted believers for generations. Life felt more difficult and meaningless without Jesus. Decisions were harder to make; it was easier to sin which brought me down and left me feeling like a bad person.
The first time I felt the love of Jesus was in Family Church at the Grace Campus. I don’t remember an exact moment of deciding to put my faith into Him, but he has been so good to my family and I the past 5 years, it has just been easy to grow closer to him. I know seeing is not believing but those gentle reminders of His faith have pushed me into a full trust of His love.
Since deciding to put my faith in Jesus, the hard things in life don’t seem so hard anymore. When I have moments of heartache or frustration, I have prayer and that is incredibly comforting. I have also found it easier to form relationships with other followers which has positively impacted both my life and my family. I am being baptized to let my old life go and grow my relationship with Jesus.
KAREN SLAGH – AGE 58, EBENEZER CAMPUS I have been raised in faith and have always known about Jesus. I accepted him as my Savior in high school and had the privilege of growing up in a Christian home, church and community. God’s presence in my life has been so evident; more than I can share in a short paragraph.
In recent years my faith has truly grown as I’ve spent more time in Scripture and been challenged to step out in faith in various ways. God has given me opportunities to be His hands and feet to show his love to others in so many ways. I have learned to hear the Spirit’s voice and be obedient in the opportunities He gives me to share my faith openly with those I meet. As I step into those opportunities, I am so blessed and hear the Spirit’s voice more clearly. I look forward to the opportunities He gives me every day.
Scripture tells us to believe and be baptized. I have not been baptized as a believer and want to step into obedience in this way.
WAYNE SLAGH – AGE 66, EBENEZER CAMPUS I accepted Jesus way back, probably 1979-1980… back in high school/youth group. Putting my faith in Jesus was personal step for me as I looked forward into life and no idea how I was going to do this alone. I wanted him lead me and guide me and save me as I tried to make my way forward. Over the years, I’ve come realize that if you do put your trust in Jesus, if you put your cares on him, if you do let him guide you, he will show you the way.
I am choosing to be baptized because although I was baptized as an infant, accepted Jesus in my teens and have been active in the church, I never actually accepted the Holy Spirit’s calling. The Bible tells us to ‘Believe and be baptized’. I’ve never come forward and been baptized as an adult and I would like to do that.
ELLIE VANDENBOSCH – AGE 7, EBENEZER CAMPUS I love Jesus! He is always with me, even on the days that I’m afraid or need a friend. Because I have accepted Jesus into my heart.
EMERSYN VANDERHEIDE – AGE 14, REDWOOD CAMPUS I accepted Jesus a while ago, I feel like now I pray and go to church more and I feel like I’m giving faith to Jesus more and more everyday! This has made me make this option to get baptized.
My first experience for the love of Jesus was wonderful, it made me feel like I was wanted and cared about. It made me feel happy and I felt like the hard things where not as hard because Jesus was there to help me through it.! I decided to put faith in him because of the people around me and my family and watching them grow because of Jesus made me feel like I needed him in my life and now that I am deciding to put my faith to Jesus I feel like I can be one of those people and have them watch me grow as well!
Since making a decision to put my faith in Jesus, my life now is way stronger than it used to be, I have more faith about Jesus now than I did. I feel like I have grown and got stronger!
I’m choosing to get baptized because I want to show Jesus that I do truly have faith in him and that he will take away my sins!
MACIE VANDERPLOEG - AGE 14, REDWOOD CAMPUS Before accepting Jesus as my Savior, I struggled with not trusting God. I was not following the way God would want me to. I struggled with self-harm and trying to do it on my own and was not trusting in God and leaning on Him like I should have. I would describe the circumstances leading up to the moment I decided to put my faith in Jesus by…
I experienced God's love when I was struggling with mental health and I wanted to give up and was really contemplating suicide. I finally knew then I needed to reach out to God and call on Him to help me and realized He was my way of getting through all the rough times. I struggled with believing for a long time because when I was little my dad was in and out of my life and he would promise to be there for me then never show and he really hurt me. He would come and go when it was convenient for him, to telling me he never wanted me. As a kid I really struggled with it and couldn't understand but once I trusted in God, I knew it wasn’t my fault and it’s him who is struggling with himself. It just really made me lean on God more for guidance.
Since making my decision to put my faith in Jesus, my life have been a lot less stressful. I’ve been able to handle life a lot better. I don’t try and do it on my own anymore and know I can go to God and He will help me through. Being baptized means I am fully trusting in God and giving Him all of me and being a disciple of Him.
ADDILYN VENARD - AGE 7, REDWOOD CAMPUS I was in the hot tub with my mommy, daddy, and my brother and we were talking about church. I surprised my parents by telling them I wanted to be “bapmetized”. When asked why, I explained to them I wanted to honor Jesus. That's why I'm being baptized - because I want to honor Jesus and I have accepted Him in my heart as my Savior.
LUCAS WANROOY - AGE 26, EBENEZER CAMPUS I grew up with a faith in Jesus, but fell out of faith around 2020. I got involved with drugs and alcohol to numb my emotions. I am trying currently to reestablish the faith that I used to have and am making steps to do so.
I first gave my life to Christ as a kid and grew up a believer at Rush Creek Bible Church in Byron Center. I went to a Christian College and struggled while I was there, getting involved with marijuana and alcohol in my freshman and sophomore years before dropping out, and drifting from God over the course of a couple of years. By 2026, I was proclaiming that I don't believe anymore and summed up the Bible to mythology. I had been struggling with money and time management, and my only close friend and roommate was getting involved with harder drugs and heavier drinking. He ended up getting arrested for a domestic assault that he committed in my house in April, and I distanced myself from him quickly but was ready to give up entirely. I got a call from my mom in May that likely saved my life, and I knew I had to make some changes. I got evicted in June, and in July I came to Gateway Mission in Holland, and since then I have finally felt the faith that I used to have returning.
I have felt joy and hope again for the first time in a long time. My family has been supportive of me wanting to make changes, and I feel the Holy Spirit pulling me in. It has been refreshing to have faith again, and I hope that this change lasts. I am being baptized as a recommitment to faith.
CHLOE WINDEMULLER - AGE 15, REDWOOD CAMPUS I grew up in church and attended Christian school. I knew the gospel story of Jesus, that He died on the cross for my sins and He lives. I just never fully and publicly declared Jesus as Lord and Savior over me. I have found it challenging to have boldness to share the gospel and live out His calling to be baptized as I'm more of a quiet person.
When I went on the high school mission trip to El Salvador, I felt and witnessed God's presence while worshipping. I grew closer to Jesus and felt his endless love for me. Since that trip, I have been reading the Bible more and understand how important it is to spend time in God's Word and simply allow time for Him. I am learning to be more bold in my faith and step out of my comfort zone. Because of this, I know Jesus will and has given me the boldness to step out and publicly declare that He is my Lord and Savior. I am being baptized because I want to obey Jesus' command to believe in him and be baptized.
MYLA WINDEMULLER – AGE 14, REDWOOD CAMPUS I have known about Jesus since I was a kid. I believed in Jesus, but never really took the next level of faith. I used to find it challenging being consistent having a routine of making time and making a habit to read my bible and praying.
I felt the call to be baptized on the mission trip last year after I accepted Jesus into my life. I wanted my family to witness me profess my faith in Jesus and be baptized but wasn't the right timing then. Recently, I have been experiencing some unexpected and difficult health issues and chronic migraines and have found my faith growing stronger in knowing who Jesus is; my King, Lord, Savior, friend, and healer. I have felt and seen Jesus heal me. I want to publicly declare Jesus as Lord and Savior of my life and defeater of death and healer of all sickness and diseases!
I have seen and felt my health improve significantly and my migraines have been appearing less intense and not as much. I have felt the prayers of people over my body and migraines as they are not happening near as much. Every night I have been spending time having devotions, praying and talking to Jesus. Worshiping is more spiritual to me and I feel God's presence and love while praising Him. I am being baptized to publicly say yes to Jesus as my Lord and Savior and king over my heart!