Songs of praise, prayers and testimonies filled the air on May 30, 2026 as Hispanic churches from across Washington Conference gathered for the conference’s first conference-wide Hispanic baptism celebration.
By the end of the Sabbath, 116 people had publicly committed their lives to Christ through baptism, marking the culmination of months of evangelistic meetings, Bible studies, neighborhood outreach, visitation and personal ministry carried out by local congregations.
The celebration represented more than a historic number of baptisms. Each baptism marked a life surrendered to Christ, a family impacted by the gospel and a new disciple beginning a walk with Jesus.
“This experience has been truly impactful,” said Elvis Díaz, El Centinela evangelism promoter for North America. “Each church brought its baptismal candidates together, creating a contagious wave of baptisms.”
Church members traveled from across the conference to support candidates from their congregations and witness the celebration. For many, the day reflected the result of sustained prayer, preaching and united mission.
Wagner Cilio, Washington Conference Hispanic ministries coordinator, said the gathering reflected a broader vision for evangelism. The goal was not only to celebrate large-scale baptisms, but also to encourage Hispanic churches to make disciple-making part of their culture.
“We are always looking for ways to keep the enthusiasm for evangelism alive,” Cilio said. “Our pastors are not working alone. They are supported by small group leaders, ministry coordinators and church members.”
Among those baptized was Linet Valles Galicia, who said the experience left her overwhelmed. “I’m speechless,” she said. “It’s so impactful to see so many people together, one by one, giving their lives to Christ.”
Valles Galicia said she decided to surrender her life to God after realizing she wanted to lay her burdens before Him. “I was so lost in the world, but this call was meant for me,” she said. “There is peace in Christ and in Christ alone.”
For Rubén Castañeda, baptism marked the beginning of a new chapter. Although he had studied the Bible for a long time, he said his decision to fully surrender came about a month before the celebration.
“I know I can’t continue by my own strength,” he said. “I pray that my Heavenly Father will pour out the Holy Spirit on me so I can bring more people to Christ.”
As Washington Conference continues moving Beyond Pentecost, Hispanic ministries leaders are giving God glory for the harvest while praying for even greater results in every church, community and language group.
The celebration served as a reminder that behind every baptism is a story of God’s grace at work and a new disciple beginning life with Jesus.
Friends and family celebrate with joy as loved ones publicly commit their lives to Christ through baptism.
Church members gather along the shoreline, creating a spirit of praise and support as candidates prepare for baptism.
Pastors from Hispanic congregations across Washington Conference baptize candidates together during the historic conference-wide celebration.
Baptismal candidates affirm their vows before publicly declaring their faith in Jesus through baptism.
