OFWBI: Mexico Baptism Story

Baptism Report – Piedras Negras

On July 13th, we had the great joy of holding a baptismal service in the city of Piedras Negras. Eight individuals were baptized—seven adults and one young man. Participating in this sacred ordinance is always a profound blessing, as it reminds us of our own commitment to follow Christ more closely. For many, it rekindles the memory of the day we publicly declared our faith, a moment full of joy, renewal, and dedication.

Personally, these moments deeply encourage me. They affirm that our labor in the Lord is not in vain. One brother shared with me, “When I see baptisms taking place, I realize that despite the obstacles and our weaknesses, it’s worth it to rise up and press on.” These gatherings also provide precious time for fellowship—a time to reconnect, encourage one another, and witness the spiritual growth and commitment of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

One especially moving testimony came from Sister Aniceta Mendoza Tovar, who was baptized at 92 years old. Despite her limited mobility due to diabetes and advanced age, she came in a wheelchair with a heart full of faith. Days before her baptism, she asked me, “Pastor, when I’m baptized, will God heal me of all my illnesses?” I looked at her, but before I could respond, she added, “Well, even if He doesn’t, after all I’ve done, if God has had mercy on me and saved me through Christ—that’s more than enough.” I simply replied, “God is good,” to which she smiled and said, “Amen.”

When she came up out of the baptismal waters, she joyfully cried out, “Glory to the Father, Glory to the Son, and Glory to the Holy Spirit!” What a testimony! For many years, Sister Aniceta served as a priestess in a sect that worshiped an idol known as “El Niño Fidencio.” She functioned as a “little box”—a vessel through which the spirit of Fidencio supposedly worked healings. But when her daughter-in-law fell gravely ill and Fidencio could not bring peace, Aniceta heard the message of salvation through Christ. She renounced Fidencio and confessed Jesus as her only and sufficient Savior.

Now, she speaks boldly to all who visit her, testifying of God’s love through Christ and encouraging them to become disciples of the Lord.

We give thanks to God for all He has allowed us to accomplish. Please continue to pray for us, that His purposes may be fulfilled. Our next baptismal celebration will be held on August 31st in the Saltillo and Ramos areas.

This mission point is sponsored by the Original Free Will Baptist International Mission Board. Your generous gifts make stories like this possible. You can donate to this cause by sending your donation to OFWBI, PO Box 39, Ayden NC 28513 or by giving online at www.ofwbi.org or using the secure giving link: CLICK HERE