Following Jesus' Example

Last year, Hosanna Francis told her parents, Pastor Cody and Mandy Francis, that she wanted to prepare for baptism. They studied with her nearly a year to be certain that she clearly understood the commitment she was going to be taking.

The date was set for May 31, 2025. Hosanna wanted to have an outdoor venue and eventually selected Baldwin Park, Onondaga, MI, through which flows the Grand River.  It was supposed to rain that day, but we knew the Lord would look upon His daughter and defer the rain.

The day turned out to be a beautiful and sunny Sabbath, and the river setting was perfect.  Family members and friends gathered there to share in this very special event. Before her baptism, Hosanna shared what baptism meant to her:

“I believe baptism is like a new birth. It is publicly saying and showing that I want to surrender my life to Jesus and that I want to live the rest of my life for and with Jesus. Through my baptism, I am following Jesus’ example and may be even setting an example for somebody else.”

Afterwards, a fellowship picnic dinner was enjoyed by all.  Although there were other groups meeting in the park, they were very respectful of the occasion, and some even commented about what a beautiful baptism it was.