Baptism at the Camp-Meeting by Wm. Covert

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Aug 22, 1907

Baptism at the Camp-Meeting

By Wm. Covert

WM. COVERT

Some have even thought that it is not advisable to have baptism at our camp-meetings, but have suggested that all candidates have this rite administered to them in the neighborhood where they live, because they say it will make a good impression upon the people of their own community. But Peter and his coworkers on the day of Pentecost did not give this kind of advice to the three thousand who offered themselves for baptism at Jerusalem. Although there were not less than seventeen provinces represented by the new converts, yet they baptized all of them before the setting of the sun.

Philip baptized the eunuch in the water found along the highway as he was closing his first interview with the man.

Believers are entitled to baptism, according to the gospel arrangement, as soon as they have decided to walk in the ways of the Lord.

In Volume VI of “Testimonies for the Church,” there is careful instruction given with reference to baptism at our camp-meetings; and while it may be proper sometimes for candidates to return home before they receive the ordinance, yet it is generally best for the meeting and the candidates, and certainly in harmony with the significance of the rite, to have it administered at the camp-meeting; but of course, after careful examination and after proper arrangements have been made.

The baptismal service is one that attracts the attention of the people generally, and from this consideration, as well as because of the sacredness of the rite, there should be a well-ordered plan carefully observed and carried out by all who have to do with the occasion.

If the people have to travel some distance in getting to the water, teams are usually engaged to convey some of the people to the place. It is better on such occasions to give careful attention to the transportation, and see that good horses and proper vehicles are employed. The conference would do well to invest a few dollars in hiring some good party wagons or busses, rather than to accept the services of inferior outfits.

Then there should be an orderly procession all the way from the camp to the place of baptism. If a large number of people have gathered at the water’s edge, it will be necessary for some one to have charge of these, in order that all may be cared for in a comfortable way. Many little folks like to be present at such times; let those in charge of the children and youth arrange these along the water’s edge in such a way that they will be permitted to see what is being done, and yet not interfere with any one else. This can be done by putting the little ones in the front row, and having them seated on the grass or the stones, as the case may be.

The clothing that is worn by the candidates, and their deportment on the occasion, are always noticed by spectators; and for these reasons there should be careful study given to the subject of proper form and deportment by those who have the camp-meeting’s interests in charge. On such occasions evil angels will be glad to make confusion, but the presence of the holy angels and the Spirit of God may have control of the entire occasion.

Appropriate songs should be rendered at the water, one stanza at a time, beginning as the candidate arises from the water.

If there is one time above another when all attending the camp-meeting should pray that the right impressions be made, it is at the time of the baptism. All who have access to the throne of God should ask for the Holy Spirit’s presence and power to suitably impress all who are present.

Chicago, Ill.