This summer, Pitts Park’s Soque River has evolved into a refuge rather than just a picturesque setting. In a sacred rhythm of water, worship, and rebirth, Bethesda Fellowship Church assembled along the river on Saturday for its third baptism ceremony of the year.
Living water, living faith
On August 16, church authorities in Bethesda baptized twelve individuals, including multiple couples, in the Soque. While the majority were local, one person went 90 miles to get baptized in Clarkesville from Greenville, South Carolina.
For individuals who have been guided by the Spirit into the Soque, this summer’s outdoor baptisms have been life-changing. Their doubts, burdens, and sorrows have been washed away by the river’s current, leaving behind a tranquility that many claim they have never experienced before.On July 13, 2025, lay pastor Nicole Moore (right) baptizes a woman in Pitts Park’s Soque River. (Image courtesy of Vickie Skelton)
Some made the choice on the spur of the moment. A few weeks prior, a young woman who had seen the Pitts Park sign for open baptisms waded into the river willingly but without a change of clothes. Others, such as T.J. Chappell and Ginger, took the step via grief and tenacity. The couple returned to the river and to one another after losing their son to an overdose, and they testified that loss had not destroyed their hope as they emerged hand in hand.
God undoubtedly received glory today, said Nicole Moore, who assisted in leading the baptisms.
Beyond church walls
Serving others outside of the church has been a priority for Bethesda Fellowship Church. In summary, organized religion has placed God in a box that was never meant to exist, according to Pastor John Graham.
As veteran churchgoer Bonnie Dillashaw observed families congregating by the riverfront in July, she said, “This is what we’re supposed to be doing.” Jesus should have left the building long ago.
Praise in the Park
Next month, the momentum will continue. The Bethesda Fellowship will offer Praise in the Park at Pitts Park on Saturday, September 27 from 4 to 8 p.m. Testimonies, interpretative dance, open baptisms, food, games, and worship led by the church’s music team will all be included in the event.
Moore stated that other churches will join in, not as observers but as collaborators, uniting to show compassion for our community. The event is a reflection of the summer’s events: faith reaching people where they are and transcending church boundaries.
