The ultimate in every evangelistic program is to see souls baptized into the third angel's message as the result of weeks of labor by the evangelist and his associates. This is the only goal and reward sought by those who, under God, give their efforts to soul winning. What a tremendous satisfaction and joy to witness a baptismal service. The whole experience always carries with it an appeal that softens and tenders the hearts, not only of those participating, but also of those witnessing the service.
In a campaign in Miami, Florida, led by B. L. Hassenpflug, Southern Union evangelist, the workers have tried to capitalize on this appeal by having the baptisms in the auditorium where the meetings are held. We sincerely believe that many have made their decision for the Lord and baptism because of the tremendous impression the service made upon them after listening for a number of weeks to the message. More than a few people expressed themselves as never having seen more beautiful baptismal services.
On the stage we placed a specially made galvanized tank 4 by 4 by 7 feet, and built steps up and into it. A hose was used to carry the warm water from faucets off stage. To keep-the floor from getting wet, tarpaulins were laid down, upon which the candidates walked after leaving the baptistry. Beautiful minature palm trees were artistically placed behind the tank to form the background. In front of the tank, shorter palms with other natural foliage and flowers were placed. This setup, with beautifully colored and blended lights playing on it, made a lovely scene indeed. A spotlight from the balcony illuminated the officiating minister and the candidate to a greater degree than did the stage lights playing over the entire scene. The curtains and backdrops of the stage were used very effectively to add to the scene. The candidates were not seen entering or leaving the baptistry..
As each candidate entered the baptistry behind drawn curtains, the evangelist told briefly of his experience in becoming a Christian. This gave the officiating pastor time to get the candidate ready for the curtain to part and the immersion that followed. (Each pastor baptized those who were to join his church.)
Altogether, the lighting, the natural foliage, the quiet organ music, and the solemnity of the occasion made a lasting impression upon the large audiences that came to hear the subject of the evening and to witness a scene that is rarely, if ever, witnessed in the world of nominal religion.
I believe our evangelists throughout the world may very effectively use public baptisms in the very hail or auditorium where the people hear the message. Many are brought to a decision when they witness the scene, with the result that others seek baptism. This is especially true if the baptismal scene is reverent, attractive, and beautiful.
