Highland Churches Unite for Baptism Celebration
A number of young people have been baptised in the Highland district since the arrival of a dedicated district pastor in 2022.

20 Mar 2026, 14:13Pr Wil Masih, edited by SM CommunicationsNethy Bridge, Highland, Scotland, United Kingdom

Highland Churches Unite for Baptism Celebration

Marking a significant step of faith, a joint Highland service centred on the baptism of a young woman and the continuing journey of spiritual growth among young people.

The baptism of a young woman, Tapiwa, became the focal point of a joint Highland church gathering on Saturday, 14 March, as members of the Inverness and Elgin Seventh-day Adventist churches met at Abernethy Christian Centre to witness her public declaration of faith.

The service opened with praise and worship, followed by district pastor Wil Masih's message based on Galatians 3:27, emphasising baptism as a moment of transformation. He described it as the point at which a believer “puts on Christ,” marking the beginning of a daily walk of discipleship empowered by faith.

Members of the Inverness and Elgin congregations join in worship at Abernethy Christian Centre.
Members of the Inverness and Elgin congregations join in worship at Abernethy Christian Centre.

As the service moved to the baptismal pool, the atmosphere was marked by joy. When Tapiwa entered the water to take her vows, the importance of her decision was evident throughout the room. Several attendees, including members of her family, were visibly emotional, reflecting the depth of the moment.

For many, seeing a young person take the step of baptism is particularly meaningful, as such commitments to a life of faith stand out as both intentional and encouraging in a time of many competing influences.

The day's programme also highlighted the importance of ongoing spiritual growth. Young people who had been baptised the previous year were invited to share their experiences, offering honest reflections on their faith journeys. Their testimonies underscored that baptism is not an endpoint, but the beginning of a continuous process of growth supported by community.

Previously baptised young people share their experiences of faith and growth with the congregation.
Previously baptised young people share their experiences of faith and growth with the congregation.

Tapiwa herself shared a brief reflection, describing both anticipation before the day and a deep sense of peace afterward. She spoke about feeling “made new in Christ” and experiencing relief from doubts about her worthiness of God’s mercy — an expression that resonated with many in attendance.

Scottish Mission Youth Sponsor Crystal Masih was also present and offered words of encouragement, affirming the significance of the moment for both Tapiwa and the wider youth community.

The service concluded with a sense of shared encouragement, as attendees reflected on a day that highlighted the ongoing impact of faith in the lives of young people.