SWAAF Evangelistic Campaign and Baptism, Sabbath 13 September 2008

FIVE BAPTISED FOLLOWING SWAAF CAMPAIGN - by Theophilus Gokah

On Sabbath 13 September 2008 five new members were baptised and added to the rapidly growing South Wales African Adventist Fellowship (SWAAF). The baptism was held in the Cardiff Central Seventh-day Adventist church following a three week evangelistic campaign entitled, "Cardiff for Christ: Chaos Amidst Hope".

The campaign was organised by local minister Pastor George Asiamah together with other members of the African Fellowship, and the speaker was evangelist Robert Osei-Bonsu. Those attending found the messages to be inspiring and particularly relevant to the challenges facing society and communities across Britain. With themes such as: Four Big Secrets of a Happy Family, Secrets of Ancient Scrolls, What Happens When You Die?, and Why So Much Suffering?, Elder Osei-Bonsu captured the imagination of young and old alike.

Cardiff, like much of British society, is largely secular and it is not always easy to present Christian principles to the general public. However, attempting to bring the gospel to such secular people is one of the reasons that SWAAF was organised and this campaign showed that the members are serious in their mission. On this occasion five people were baptised, but a further ten have accepted the Advent message and more baptisms and further campaigns are planned for the future.

During the baptismal programme on Sabbath afternoon each of the candidates' favourite Bible texts were read by Brother John George while the congregation sang their favourite songs. Pastor Asiamah conducted the baptisms while Elder Osei-Bonsu officiated. In his commitment address, Elder Osei-Bonsu charged the baptismal candidates to be faithful in their faith. Holding on to one's faith is a challenge but it is something that all followers of Christ must do while they await His soon return. Each of the candidates was presented with certificate and gifts, including the book "Fundamentals of the Seventh-day Adventist Faith".

Following the baptismal service Elder Osei-Bonsu, who had been extremely busy over the previous three weeks, spent some time relaxing with his friends from SWAAF as they visited the historic area of Cardiff Bay. He will now continue his work of evangelism in other parts of God's vineyard but it is hoped that the seeds he has helped to plant in Cardiff will bear much fruit in the future.