Massive California Baptism Event Expected to Draw 12,000 Saturday
In what’s projected to be the nation’s largest public baptism, thousands will gather at Huntington Beach on Saturday, May 3 for Baptize California. Organizers say the movement began with a divine vision in May 2022 and follows last year’s historic event that drew thousands to California’s coast.
“In May 2022, the Lord placed it on our hearts to gather His people for a mass water baptism, something every denomination can agree on,” says Pastor Mark Francey of Oceans Church, who helped launch the movement. “We are humbled and honored that God gave us the vision and responsibility to help unite the Church across California.”
The movement’s growth has been remarkable. “What began at Pirate’s Cove in 2023 with Baptize SoCal has grown into a statewide movement called Baptize California,” Francey explains. “In 2023, we witnessed 4,166 people get baptized in a single day, with over 280 churches coming together. It was a powerful moment of unity, worship, and renewal.”
This year’s gathering is expected to surpass previous records. “For Baptize California on May 3rd, we’re expecting to baptize 8,000 to 12,000 people in Huntington Beach alone, with over 30 churches on site and pastors flying in from across the country to participate,” says Pastor Mark.
The event will feature live gospel music and dramatic ocean visuals. Among the attendees will be Sammy “The Bull” Gravano, former underboss of the Gambino crime family, who will share his story of faith and transformation.
The California event kicks off a broader national movement. “We’re preparing the way for Baptize America on June 8th, with public baptisms happening at hub locations nationwide,” Francey says. “God is using California, a place the world often overlooks spiritually, to ignite a fresh move of His Spirit. Our prayer is that as the world watches, a united Church stands together in faith, and they will be reminded that God is not done with America.”
Francey emphasizes the event’s deeper significance: “If we can unite the Church and fully return our hearts to Jesus, we believe He will heal our land.”
The free event begins at [insert time] at Huntington Beach. For more information, visit www.Baptize.org.
–Metro Voice
