RESENDE (RJ) – The Seventh-day Adventist Church – Reform Movement of Resende, belonging to the Rio de Janeiro Association (ARJ), under the Southwest Brazilian Union, experienced a special Saturday of spiritual celebration on July 4, during the realization of a conference that culminated in the baptism of two young people: Rubens Simões and Rubens Alves.
The program began with a participatory Sabbath School, which was attended by members, visitors, and family. Afterwards, the church promoted a fellowship lunch, providing moments of communion and strengthening of bonds among the participants.
The highlight of the day took place during the afternoon program, when the two young people made their profession of faith and descended into the baptismal waters, publicly assuming the commitment to follow Christ.
Rubens Simões' story was marked by a reunion with God. He had previously participated in the church's communion in previous years, but had distanced himself for personal reasons. Moved by the desire to return to the Lord, he decided to renew his covenant through rebaptism, testifying to the action of divine grace in his life.
Rubens Alves, on the other hand, made a decision of great personal impact. While serving in the Army, he understood that military activity was incompatible with his faith convictions. With the support of family and friends, he requested his discharge from military service to dedicate himself fully to his commitment to God.
The local church invites the brethren to intercede for the two young people, that they may remain firm in their Christian walk, and also for other people who still need to make the decision to surrender their lives to Christ.
“I tell you that, in the same way, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who do not need to repent.” (Luke 15:7)