Baptisms in the 'Rheinische Post' of Aug 1

English translation by Google(!) …

Anglicans celebrate Rhine-Baptism

Oliver J. up to the hips with full clothing in the Rhine. Then two men take him from the side to immerse the 29-year-old from Munster. J. was one of three members of the anglican church, baptized on Sunday morning at the waterworks Staad. On blankets and camping chairs about 40 community members and special guests watched the English-language ceremony on the Rhine beach. Again and again departing aircraft noise provided for short breaks. The waves of the passing barges beat irregularly at the beach. The liturgy of the Anglicans resembled the Protestant and Catholic: At the beginning of the worship pastor Stephen Seamer blessed the candidates with a cross on the forehead. One after another the three candidates then read aloud their testimonials, the reasons for their decision to join the community of faith.

Comfort in the community

Different motives brought them to this step: “My parents wanted that I decide myself to which church I belong,” said J. “I have learned about the Anglican Church in Frankfurt and searched for a church nearby. I feel in Dusseldorf very well received and sheltered. In addition here everyone can contribute according to his gifts.” Seven months ago he had then decided to take the step. The couple Athitaya (26) and Marc J. (25) had looked at various churches. “There was never before the right one for us,” both said. Only then came the actual baptism. “It was not as cold as I thought,” J. said after the service. “The baptism in the river is a very interesting experience. Also because it reminds me of the baptism of Jesus in the New Testament. The immersion I will not forget so quickly.” This was precisely the concern of the Düsseldorf Anglicans when the congregation offered river baptisms two years ago which have been done by other communities as well: “For young adults it is more forceful and impressive when they can experience the baptism of the whole body,” said the Rev. Stephen Seamer who comes from England. “For babies we make also the normal baptism with water from the baptismal font.”