Cayden’s Baptism!

This past Sunday, we got to witness Cayden's baptism at our Family Day Camp service.

Brad: So tell us a bit of your story Cayden, and why you decided it was time to be baptised?

Cayden: In grade 11 (2018), I was invited by a friend to RIDGE for a BBQ. As I struggled for meals then, I decided that maybe I should go to get the opportunity for some food. I had no real relationship with God and felt a bit guilty. Kyle made me feel like I was at the right spot. I had never really felt welcome anywhere, even at home. Youth group became a weekly thing for me (in spite of the looks from my non-Christian family) and as time went on it was the only thing carrying me through. It was my light in the hard times that I faced each week.

I was extremely excited and motivated to go on the Mexico mission trip. I was sure it would be an amazing experience and a way to learn more about God. After my minimal efforts raising funds, I had only raised $600 (half the trip cost). With disappointment in my eyes I told Kyle I could not attend. The next day someone donated the remaining $600. That was the moment I felt God was real and that he had plans for me. The trip changed me so much and to this day, is still my favourite memory.

After graduating I fell distant from God, stopped attending church and began using marijuana to numb my pain. Little did I know the true pain was being distant from God. I felt life was crumbling around me and eventually returned to church, hoping God would forgive me. I was welcomed with open arms. It’s been a year now and I have learnt so much. Failures and pain keep happening, but I turn to prayer of why and how it's part of his plan. I began praying to understand his plan because it is his plan I want to follow, not my own. Whispers like a career in counselling keep surfacing through voices around me (and God).

Recently I was in the church parking lot at 11 pm with a broken heart, seeking God’s will, angry and confused. His whisper to remind me of the upcoming baptisms resonated deeply. I still struggle feeling worth in myself but I have decided I am finally ready and not afraid to be baptised. Now is the time to further my relationship with God!

Brad: That’s awesome Cayden. Thank you for sharing your journey with us, your step of faithfulness in baptism and for  being a part of our family!