Wow! Friend, what an awesome privilege to officiate at the Baptism; a most solomn and special occasion. We first enjoyed an outstanding morning service, with an anointed and very obvious Holy Spirit presence filled praise and worship time. The Spirit was heavy in our meeting, almost like a thick cloud. It was one of those days when the spirit was manifested through many prophetic ways where words such as "Victoria Falls" ushered in a greater meaning, "Rivers of living
water", a cleansing and restoration. A word on angelic visitation. The spirit was also manifested in laughter, the joy was like a healing balm.

Once again the message reiterated the LOVE OF THE FATHER. Our anchore text was from 2 Chron. 16 :9 (For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.) After a time of prayer ministry, (and to save time) no coffee was served, we all proceded to the home of the Loveley's in the picturique setting of Belvedere. An awesome setting (with a tranquil garden and huge pool)it was ideal for a corporate baptism.

Pastor Brian Long opened in prayer and set the scene for the baptism, whilst Nathan fully immersed each candidate





The names were as follows (1)Jim Abinethy, (2)Sue Abinethy, (3)Zimkita Ngamlana, (4) Clive Kemp, (5) Wendy Kemp, (6)Simone Du Plesis, (7)Margot Green, (8)Jennifer Peen, (9)Maurene Rouse, (10)Lee Rosewarne, (11)Kerryn Rosewarne, (12)James Rousewarne, (13)Martha Mhlanli, (14)Marilugh Campher. So the number of candidates were 14 ,however, please be informed that two weeks ago, we also baptised Monique Howard, Katie Saunders and Elaine Young giving us a grand total of 17 baptism.

There were numerous witnesses of this solomn event of true obedience. We had prayed for good weather and God gave us a perfect day, with excellent water temperature. The witnesses were asked to participate by giving the candidates prophetic words or just scriptures to encourage and confirm God's work. It was so evident that as the candidate came up out of the water there was a new creation emerginging. Our pre-baptism class on Monday truly evoked an anticipation of the infilling of the Holy Spirit, and a clear understanding of death to the old self and birth to a new creation in Christ Jesus.I thank God for the privilege of using me to baptism these awesome folk. A few candidates have walked this walk many years however, chose to be baptised in obedience to the scriptures, even though they were priviously been baptised as infants in a more tradition type church. We also had the privilege of seeing 3 generations being baptised Tim and Sue, Lee as their daughter and Kerryn and James as their grand children.


Once all the formalities were concluded, The Island Church enjoyed a time of fellowship, and our "bring and share" was excellent. The tables were overflowing as usual with delightful snacks, cold meats, salids and drinks galore.

This was a great way to conclude our year.