A transforming moment at Virginia Point UMC
Rev. Louella Williams presents a Bible to Nathaniel Haskins following his baptism, as District Superintendent Dr. Clara Reed, right, and family members look on.
Editor’s Note: After five funerals and three weddings, Rev. Louella Williams, Virginia Point UMC, Savoy, had her first baptism. The event was transforming in her life and congregation.
BY REV. LOUELLA WILLIAMS
Virginia Point UMC
As a newly appointed local licensed pastor, serving in a rural church of 43 members, with the average age greater than 60, God sent the Haskins Family, and Nathaniel, 12, was baptized Oct. 4. To add more blessings to the event, the Sherman-McKinney District Superintendent, Rev. Clara Reed was scheduled to preach and conduct Charge Conference the same Sunday.
I knew someday, Nathaniel would be ready, but he sprang it on me after church the Sunday prior to the church’s big event and said “Lou, we may need to wait a week since that important lady is coming next week”. And of course my response to the young man, “No we won’t wait, because your Baptism is more important than anything else”. He glowed.
Dr. Reed was so gracious while we worked on changing up the order of worship and after the baptism presented Nathaniel with his certificate and bible.
In that moment, frozen in time, I knew God’s calling was confirmed once again. To baptize a child that understands the meaning of accepting Jesus Christ as his Savior for now and forever, is the ultimate gift that God has given.
Virginia Point UMC is located at 1386 CR 1200 near Savoy and is the oldest NTC church in continuous service. For more information, please visit www.virginiapointumc.com.