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Scarborough, Ont.
New Covenant Christian Fellowship holds first baptisms


This fall, New Covenant Christian Fellowship in Scarborough, Ont., welcomed 13 new members into its fellowship, 11 by confession of faith and two by baptism.

(l-r) Mamun Talukder, Ripa Talukder, Ursula Baker, Willie Baker, Chand Samuel, Florence Samuel, Jay Banerjei, Molly Banerjei, Collin Wilson (b), Michael Narimalla (b), David Samuel, Sonia Samuel, Hitty Banerjei and pastor Vidya Narimalla.

This was the first baptism service for the congregation. Friends and family witnessed the public testimony of the two candidates. Michael Narimalla said he knew in his heart that he wants to follow God for the rest of his life, but he admitted he was more comfortable because his father was performing the ceremony. While on a journey for many years, Collin Wilson came to a better understanding of what baptism really means and chose to follow Jesus’ example.

Near the end, all those in attendance were encouraged to share meaningful Scripture and of their own baptism experiences.

Many of the new members were born in other countries and some were raised in different faith traditions. When Florence Samuel expressed an interest in becoming a member, her daughter Chanda told the pastor that she also wanted to become a member because she too was a “daughter of Jesus”.

Having grown up in a very devout Muslim home, another new member was first challenged by the teachings of Jesus only nine years ago. He became friends with a missionary in order that he could convert him to Islam. After three months of questions and studying about Jesus through the Koran (the Islamic holy book), the Holy Spirit touched his life. As fervently as he served Allah as a slave would a master, he then entered into a personal relationship with God as a son to a father.  – Allyson Lucas

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Last modified December 10, 1999.

© 1999 Mennonite Brethren Herald.
Published by the Canadian Conference of MB Churches.
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