Skip to Main Content

Nueva Vida Renewal of Baptism

Posted: September 5 2012 at 04:55 PM
Author: Anne Marie Gerhardt


Baptism4

On a bright, sunny Sunday morning this past Labor Day weekend, about 60 people gathered along the beachfront at Crystal Lake for worship, reaffirmation of faith and baptism. Twelve people, both young and old, from Nueva Vida UMC in Aurora, were immersed in the slightly cool waters.

Bishop Sally Dyck, newly assigned to the Northern Illinois Conference officiated the service along with the Rev. Martin Lee, Elgin District Superintendent Oscar Carrasco and Nueva Vida Lay Missioner Martin Lopez.

Bishop Dyck reminded those gathered to go forward to share God’s grace with our neighbors even if we are brand new to the neighborhood. “It was a wonderful way for me to begin my ministry in the Northern baptismIllinois Conference,” said Bishop Dyck.

“To see and participate in the baptism of these young people and reaffirmation of faith for the other adults was a blessing. The Nueva Vida congregation is an inspiration to us all!”

Rockford District Superintendent Ouk-Yean Kim Jueng and members of First UMC of Crystal Lake also attended the service which included a potluck lunch.

“What a marvelous day,” said the Rev. Oscar Carrasco. “I still wish to Praise God for the amazing day! Gloria a Dios!”

“It was the very first time for me to participate in full immersions. It was an awesome experience,” said Rev. Martin Lee, Director of Congregational Development and Redevelopment.  “I could sense their recommitment as newborn Christian persons as they rose from the water.”

Rev. Lee praised Lay Missioner Martin Lopez as he works to rebuild the Nueva Vida congregation.

“They have between 60 and 70 people in worship on Sundays,” said Rev. Lee. “On this day, they received 12 new members through Profession of Faith. Praise the Lord!”

Photos Courtesy Joyce Carrasco

News & Announcements

Janeeesleyjuly2025

Chicago Muslims and United Methodists Call for Justice in Gaza

The Northern Illinois–Wisconsin Episcopal Area of The United Methodist Church and the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago spoke at a July 30 press…

Genevatricitiesfamily Services

Geneva UMC’s Rummage/Bake Sale Serves Creation and Community

The United Methodist Church of Geneva’s rummage sale not only raises funds but supports creation care. The church directs the proceeds to charities and finds new u…

Empathy Hands Image

From our Bishop: Love Each Other Like Members of Your Family

Bishop Schwerin calls on United Methodists to reclaim the deep Christian call to love our neighbors—especially those who are suffering. He urges faithful action—thr…

Uvc Awards Group 1

Nominations open for 2025 UVC Annual Child Advocate Awards

United Voices for Children (UVC) is inviting nominations for its three annual awards. These UVC Awards honor extraordinary volunteer service or advocacy efforts on beh…

Print