Unique baptism at Brazilian hospital
ILHÉUS, Bahia, Brazil
On Friday, August 16, the Costa do Cacau Hospital in Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil, experienced a unique moment. For the first time, a paraplegic patient hospitalized there was baptized on the public hospital’s premises. The initiative was organized by the local Seventh-day Adventist church, which set up an inflatable pool at the hospital for the ceremony.
Twenty-six-year-old hospital patient Felipe Santana de Nascimento was inspired by regular visits from a group of Adventist youth. Aware of Felipe’s condition, the group of young people, accompanied by the local Adventist pastor, began to offer him spiritual support and Bible studies, which ended with his decision to choose a new path in a life of faith.
“It was impossible getting to know Jesus and not fall in love with Him,” Felipe explained.
Social work coordinator Maria Lugiane explained that the baptismal ceremony held at the hospital marked a new chapter in the institution’s history, affirming its commitment to humanized care and respect for the physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of its patients.
“Felipe’s baptism opens the way for other patients who may have a desire to be baptized,” Cunha said. “They will be able to do it even if they are hospitalized.” [Monique Anjos, South American Division, and Adventist Review]
Pastor organizes inaugural peace vigil
ELGIN, Moray, Scotland
On the serene morning of June 25, 2024, the historic Pluscarden Abbey hosted a peace vigil that brought together members of the community representing various faith traditions and backgrounds. The event, initiated by Wilfred Masih, pastor of the local Seventh-day Adventist church, was a response to the increasing polarization seen globally. The call for a gathering that transcended religious and cultural boundaries was met with enthusiasm from the local community and beyond, including Maureen Sier, director of Interfaith Scotland.
Invitations were extended widely, encouraging participation from all walks of life.
The morning began with attendees gathering outside the abbey with a sense of shared purpose. Masih welcomed everyone, emphasizing the importance of unity and understanding in these challenging times when our world is fragmented and divided.
Following the brief welcome, participants were led into the abbey so that each could light a candle. This simple yet profound act symbolized the light each person can bring into the world through peace and understanding. This set the tone for the silent prayer and reflection that was at the heart of the vigil. Participants sat in quiet contemplation, reflecting on the themes of peace and unity in war-torn parts of the world and the ways they could contribute to fostering these ideals in their own lives.
After the designated time for silent reflection, the group transitioned to a more social part of the event. At this time everyone was given the opportunity to talk and connect with others as they shared their thoughts and experiences. This time of fellowship was marked by a real sense of friendship, trust, and mutual respect as people from different faith traditions and backgrounds found common ground in their shared desire for peace.
The feedback from those who attended was overwhelmingly positive. Many who came expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to participate in such a meaningful event. Some noted how the vigil had provided a much-needed space for reflection and connection, while others appreciated the chance to meet people from different walks of life in a spirit of unity and understanding.
One attendee stated, “In a world that often feels divided, it was a beautiful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together. The silence was powerful, and the conversations afterward were incredibly enriching. I truly hope this becomes an annual tradition.” [SM Communications, Adventist.UK]
Chaplaincy at Paris 2024 Paralympics
PARIS, France
As the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games concluded, the importance of spiritual support for athletes was highlighted. Like previous Olympic Games, chaplaincy played a crucial role in supporting athletes from around the world, allowing them to draw strength and comfort from their faith.
The Paralympic Games chaplaincy was open to all athletes, regardless of their religious or spiritual beliefs. Chaplains from different faiths, including Adventist Pastor Pascal Rodet, were present throughout the event to provide moral, spiritual, and psychological support to athletes.
Beyond the purely sporting aspect, the chaplaincy helped create a caring and inclusive environment in which athletes felt supported in their humanity and diversity. This was an essential step to remind people that the Paralympic Games celebrate not only sporting excellence but also the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
Several Christian organizations, including the National Council of Evangelicals of France (CNEF), welcomed the freedom granted to Christians to evangelize during this period. Many initiatives were put in place, receiving a positive reception from the authorities and the public.
The Adventist Church also mobilized during the games, particularly through literature distribution, health exhibition activities, and meetings with Parisians and international fans who traveled to attend the games. The objective was to share biblical values and the love of Christ with as many people as possible. The Adventist Church intends to continue this activity, building on the momentum generated by the games to continue bearing witness to its faith and hope in the soon return of Christ. [BIA-ANN]
