Story Team: What was the feeling like after you were baptized?

Jenny: I was shaking from the moment I stepped into the water until the moment I went under. The feeling was truly surreal. It’s honestly hard to put into words. God’s presence was so overwhelming that day. His light was shining so bright throughout the room and it was so obvious He was there with all of us. For the first time, my faith felt visible. It left me with a sense of peace and closeness to God that I’ll never be able to fully explain.

Story Team: Who was up there with you?

Jenny: A few girls from my dinner group were up there with me. They’ve been walking alongside me since the beginning of my faith journey and helped me discover the true meaning of baptism. I am so grateful for them.

Also had my Hoboken friends up there with me, who always support through anything and everything I do.

But the biggest surprise of all was seeing my parents there. They had me baptized as a baby and raised me Catholic, so naturally it took them some time to understand why I felt called to be baptized again as an adult. Their willingness to listen, support me, and celebrate this decision with me meant more than I can put into words. Seeing them there was a reminder that God doesn’t just work in our own hearts, He works in the hearts of those we love, too. I’m so grateful He gave them the understanding to celebrate this moment with me.

Story Team: For another Hoboken Grace community member who may be thinking about taking this step, what would you say to them?

Jenny: Pray about it. Spend time talking with Jesus, and trust that He will make the answer clear.

I especially relate to those who feel hesitant because they were already baptized as a baby. That was one of my biggest questions too. Pastor Anthony shared something with me that completely changed my perspective. He said that being baptized as a baby is a reflection of our parents’ hope that we will one day follow Jesus. Choosing to be baptized as an adult doesn’t take away from that, it fulfills it. It’s now your own decision to publicly declare your faith and say, “I choose to follow Jesus.”

If you feel that little nudge in your heart, don’t ignore it. Pray about it, trust Him, and let Him guide your next step

Story Team: What made you take the step of baptism?

Jenny: Honestly, I got the “nudge.”

The first time I witnessed a baptism at Hoboken Grace, I was overwhelmed with joy. Seeing people publicly declare their faith stirred something in me, and I knew it was something I wanted to learn more about. I immediately started talking to the girls in my dinner group, but I kept putting it off because I didn’t think I was “ready.”

As I continued growing in my relationship with Jesus, I realized that baptism isn’t about reaching some level of perfection in your faith or waiting until you’re ready. It’s about taking the first step in obedience and trusting Him with the rest. Looking back, I know that nudge was God inviting me to take that step, and I’m so grateful I finally said yes.

If you’re interested in learning more about taking the step of baptism click here.