The June 2025 Nicolás Fund For Education (NFE) Mission Trip team experienced a day of profound spiritual importance, thanks to Pastor Eli Sierra’s participation. His presence made it possible for Nicolás Christian School (NCS) to hold its first-ever water baptisms on the new campus—a moment that will forever be etched in our hearts.
The day began with a powerful student devotion led by Becci Merritt. She shared the story of the Pool at Bethesda (John 5:2-9), using a brief but impactful Spanish clip from The Chosen. The devotion emphasized a life-changing truth: our relationship with Christ is all we need. Becci encouraged students to avoid living an “as soon as” life—waiting for circumstances to change or people to arrive—and instead place their hope in Christ today.
Following the devotion, Pastor Eli delivered a powerful message on the meaning and importance of baptism. His words touched everyone deeply, and when he invited people to the altar, a seventh-grade boy named Abdiel stood up shyly. The room erupted with cheers and applause as his classmates celebrated his decision to give his life to Christ. One by one, more students stood—each greeted with joyful cheers. By the end, five NCS students who had already finished baptism classes were joined by two girls from the community and five more students who responded to the altar call. In total, twelve students came forward to be baptized—a number that matched the prayer National Director Ivan España had journaled the night before. God had answered his prayer in a way that left everyone in awe.
The baptismal certificate each student receives leaves the name of the church blank, enabling them to fill in the name of the church they attend. Some of the 42 students who initially expressed interest in being baptized this year chose to be baptized by their own priests or pastors at their home churches. It is thrilling to witness how God is moving at Nicolás Christian School, drawing these students closer into a relationship with Him.
The atmosphere in the room was electric, filled with joy, praise, and the unmistakable presence of the Holy Spirit. NCS Senior Coordinator Noé Molina was visibly moved, and the outpouring of support from students for their peers created a sense of unity and celebration.
An above-ground pool with three-foot walls was set up under the covered outdoor area, prepared for this sacred moment. Parents of the students who responded to the altar call were quickly contacted, given permission, and invited to witness this life-changing event. Once all the parents arrived, Pastor Eli and Ivan España entered the pool. Each student boldly affirmed their desire to be baptized, and as they rose from the water, Ivan blew his shofar—a Biblical horn used to call on God in times of battle and reflection. The sound of the shofar added a deep spiritual weight to the moment, declaring, “You are a new person in Christ!” The joy and significance of each baptism were indescribable, leaving an indelible mark on everyone present.
One moment that truly captured the spirit of the day was Abdiel’s excitement. Eager to be baptized, he jumped into the pool—coat and all! Realizing his mistake, he laughed as he was helped out of his jacket. The pure joy on his face as he surfaced from the water was unforgettable. This day served as a testament to God’s faithfulness, the power of community, and the transformative work of Christ. It was a day filled with laughter, tears, and celebration—a day none of us will ever forget.
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