IN Pondicherry, a French colony on the east coast of India, some believers awaited baptism. Not being able to baptize in the sea, we had to seek some other place. In the surrounding neighborhood there are many reservoirs, some of which are used for irrigation purposes in the dry weather, and others in connection with the sacred rites of the Hindu temple worship. We arranged to use one of the former.
To get to the place selected, we must pass in front of a large Hindu temple, which was walled up all around with a high stone wall. These temples, with their inclosures, sometimes covering several acres of land, are considered sacred, and none but high caste people are allowed to worship within their walls. In the gate of this temple stood the keeper; and as we passed by, he was curious to know where we were going.
“To a baptismal service in yonder reservoir,” we informed him.
“Can you not use the reservoir inside the temple here? It is a nice place, and there is plenty of water,” he replied.
“But ours is a Christian baptism,” said the speaker, thinking possibly the keeper did not fully understand the nature of the service we wished to perform.
“Very well,” replied the keeper; “you are welcome to come in here, if you wish, and use our reservoir. All is quiet, and the people cannot see from the road.”
First Baptized Converts at Bombay
Is It a Trap?
I was astonished. A Christian baptism in a Hindu sacred bathing place! Such a thing would ordinarily defile the entire premises, and occasion expensive purification ceremonies, and possibly bring about a riot. What did it mean? Were we being led into a trap?
After inspecting the place, we decided to use it. The door was opened, and we all filed inside. Passing through a gate at the rear of the inclosure, we stood at the end of a large reservoir, thickly surrounded by coconut trees and shrubbery.
Here in this Hindu sacred reservoir, in full view of the dumb gods whose hideous and repulsive features stood out in bold relief on the temple tower just in front of us, while the keeper looked on in curious amazement, I buried seven dear souls in the name of Him who is the Creator, Redeemer, and Saviour of all mankind.
Truly it was an impressive spectacle; and the more I have thought of it since, the more it seems to enlarge upon my senses. God’s work is onward in this land of spiritual midnight. The light of His truth is shining in many places, and growing brighter and brighter as it increases in power. “Declare His glory among the heathen, His wonders among all people.” Ps. 96: 3.
