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Outdoor baptism in Galway in the middle of winter

An Outdoor Baptism in Galway in the Middle of Winter

Juliana Rodigues Medeiros, a Brazilian used to warmer weather chose to be baptised in Galway's outdoor baptistry in December 2018. Here is the story.

GalwayOliver Martyn

There are few actions that show dedication to a cause that are more convincing than being willing to be plunged into an outdoor pool in Ireland at the height of winter. The Galway Seventh-day Adventist church were blessed to witness just such an act on Sabbath, 8 December, when Juliana Rodigues Medeiros was baptised.

Juliana Rodrigues Baptism December 2018 Juliana originally comes from Brazil, but now lives in County Roscommon in the west of Ireland. She wanted to be baptised to publicly declare that she was following Jesus. She was so keen to do this that she was willing to enter the beautiful outdoor baptistry in the grounds of the Galway church even though winter had arrived. Her mother Jeanea was there to witness the event along with the rest of the Galway church.

In his sermon pastor Tony O'Rourke said that there was rejoicing in heaven because of Julian’s decision to be baptised. He said, "Conversion is a supernatural work of the Holy Spirit." He added, "Conversion is the work of God, never of ourselves."

After the baptism Juliana was presented with flowers by Anna, the church pianist. Elders Abraham, Vushu and Dimitri, and Pr. O'Rourke prayed for her. A delicious fellowship meal followed and there was an extra joyful spirit in the church as a music concert was held in the afternoon. The concert celebrated Juliana’s baptism as a young person in the church and served the double purpose of raising funds for the youth of the church.

Juliana's Baptism in Galway in January 2019