Weekend Teaching Series: Baptism (1-off)
Sermon in a Sentence: Baptism is a step of obedience for believers and is a beautiful picture of Jesus’ death, burial and resurection and how He washes away our sins.
Service Length: 50 minutes + baptisms after each service

Understandable Message: This weekend we focused on the 2nd step in the basics of faith: baptism. I talked plainly about the who, what, why and when of baptism, using a few personal stories to illustrate it. We planned a shorter service so the students could go right out to the baptismal and watch a few students be baptized right there. We had online signups through the week, so we had a few students lined up ahead of time, and also made it available for everyone during the service as well. We provided shorts, shirt and a towel – we just asked them to get clearance from their parents – better yet invite them down to be a part of it. Really unique weekend, hopefully a good balance of heart, stories and Biblical authority on baptism.

Element of Fun/Positive Environment: This weekend we had another edition of HSM Talks where the host Chris interviews our new summer interns. It was awkward and fun – kinda painful to watch – which means it was perfect. We also took the summer interns on stage and had them do the announcements – trial by fire since it was their first week. We had a good number of student greeters and students also ran the sound, control room and cameras.

Music Playlist: I Whip My Hair, Be Thou My Vision, Our God

Favorite Moment: Without a doubt the best moment was going outside and doing the baptisms we just learned about. Students cheered for their friends and family took tons of pictures. Each one had a story – a very powerful moment. Love it.

Up Next: Senior Weekend