August 11, 2025

From Bluegrass to Baptism

Art is Everywhere, event photography, family, friends

A Celebration of Faith


Friday wasn't just another day on the calendar; it was a soul-stirring memory etched in my heart. Watching your child take a step of faith is something else, but watching Priscilla, my vibrant, eight-year-old firecracker, do it with such genuine, unwavering joy... there's just nothing like it. And to make the moment even more beautiful, she did it alongside two of her good friends, surrounded by an incredible community.

All three campuses of our Crossroads Church family came together at Coppermine Cascade Park, and the atmosphere was electric. The air hummed with the lively strings of bluegrass music, and the smell of a good old-fashioned potluck hung in the air. We shared food and fellowship, catching up with friends we hadn't seen in a while and laughing as kids splashed and played in the water, their excitement as big as the day itself.

The baptism itself was a beautiful, collective moment. The pool, sparkling in the early evening light, became our sacred space. One by one, about thirty people—young and old, new and seasoned in their faith—took turns stepping into the water. Each person's story was unique, but their decision was the same: to declare their love for Jesus publicly.

When it was Priscilla's turn, my heart swelled. She walked down the ramp into the water with so much confidence, her eyes bright with a pure and honest love for the Lord. The powerful friendships being celebrated that day began at Tami Gees' dance, but to see all three of them—one from our campus, one from another—take this step together was a beautiful testament to the community we share.The baptisms were a beautiful sight, with cheers from the crowd echoing across the park with each person who rose from the water, their face beaming.

It was a day of pure joy, deep fellowship, and powerful, visible faith. It was a reminder that God's love is real, tangible, and ready for all of us, no matter our age. And on that Friday, we saw it firsthand, reflected in the water and the smile on my daughter's face.

People gather barefoot at an outdoor baptism with someone wearing a nautical captain's hat and 'FOR' t-shirt.
An outdoor baptism ceremony takes place in a swimming pool while onlookers watch from the pool deck area.
People participate in a baptism ceremony at an outdoor swimming pool with onlookers watching from poolside.
People participate in a baptism ceremony in an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by trees on a sunny day.
Someone in swimming attire enjoys a sunny day at a community pool with onlookers visible in the background.
A baptism ceremony takes place in a bright blue swimming pool on a sunny day.
A baptism ceremony takes place in an outdoor swimming pool on a sunny day.
A baptism ceremony takes place in a bright blue swimming pool on a sunny day.
Two people in blue and black help a child in bright blue water during a baptism ceremony at an outdoor pool.
A baptism ceremony takes place in a bright blue swimming pool on a sunny day.
A baptism ceremony takes place in a bright blue swimming pool on a sunny day.
A baptism ceremony takes place in an outdoor swimming pool with a waterslide visible in the background.
A baptism ceremony takes place in a bright blue swimming pool on a sunny day.
A baptism ceremony takes place in a bright blue swimming pool on a sunny day.
A group engaging in a large pool based mass baptism ceremony at a summer youth retreat.