15 Jan 2026, 09:50Ulanda AlexanderSouthall, Greater London, England, United Kingdom
Heaven Rejoices at Southall SDA Church: Ten Souls Baptised in a Joyous Celebration
On 10 January 2026, Southall Seventh-day Adventist Church witnessed a moment of profound spiritual significance as ten individuals publicly declared their faith in Jesus Christ through baptism. It was a sacred and joyful occasion, marked by praise, thanksgiving, and a deep sense that heaven itself rejoiced over lives surrendered fully to Christ.
The baptismal service formed the heart of a special celebration, reminding the congregation that every soul is precious in the sight of God. Family members, friends, and church members gathered in unity, bearing witness to the transforming power of the gospel and the miracle of new life in Christ.
The service was led by Southall SDA Church’s newly appointed Pastor, Clayton Maurede, who delivered a compelling and thought-provoking sermon entitled “What Is Your Choice?” Drawing from the Scripture readings in John 3 and John 15, Pastor Maurede challenged the congregation to examine their personal response to God’s love and invitation.
Referencing Nicodemus’ encounter with Jesus, Pastor Maurede highlighted humanity’s tendency to choose darkness rather than light, despite the light offering true life and freedom. Like Nicodemus, he explained, many come to Jesus cautiously, yet Christ lovingly invites all to step fully into the light. “Nicodemus needed the light,” he reminded the congregation, “and so do we.”
Pastor Maurede admonished the body of Christ to love God not only for His blessings, but for who He is, allowing that love to shape every decision. Emphasising Jesus’ words, he urged believers to let the world know that “the love of God constrains us.” This love, he said, compels believers to live boldly, faithfully, and unashamedly for Christ.
The baptisms were conducted by Pastor Berhanu Tsehaye, Area 6D Coordinator, together with Pastor Clayton Maurede, adding to the reverence and joy of the occasion. Each baptism represented a public declaration of faith and a commitment to walk in newness of life with Christ.
With clarity and conviction, Pastor Maurede declared that choosing Jesus is choosing life. “If you want life,” he reminded the congregation, “Jesus says, choose life—and be bold in your decision.” The baptismal candidates stood as living testimonies of individuals sold out to Jesus, choosing faith over fear and light over darkness.
In addition to the baptisms, the church family also joyfully welcomed newly transferred members, Brother David and Sister Jacqueline Richardson, who were officially received into the Southall SDA Church family. Their arrival was celebrated as another blessing, strengthening the bonds of fellowship and unity within the congregation.
As each candidate entered the waters of baptism, the church rejoiced, celebrating not only what God had done, but what He continues to do through transformed lives. The service concluded with praise and gratitude, affirming that this was not an ending, but the beginning of a lifelong walk with Christ.
Indeed, heaven rejoiced, and Southall SDA Church was blessed to witness the power of God’s redeeming love at work—ten lives changed, hearts committed, and a church renewed in hope, love, and purpose.
On 10 January 2026, Southall Seventh-day Adventist Church witnessed a moment of profound spiritual significance as ten individuals publicly declared their faith in Jesus Christ through baptism. It was a sacred and joyful occasion, marked by praise, thanksgiving, and a deep sense that heaven itself rejoiced over lives surrendered fully to Christ.
The baptismal service formed the heart of a special celebration, reminding the congregation that every soul is precious in the sight of God. Family members, friends, and church members gathered in unity, bearing witness to the transforming power of the gospel and the miracle of new life in Christ.
The service was led by Southall SDA Church’s newly appointed Pastor, Clayton Maurede, who delivered a compelling and thought-provoking sermon entitled “What Is Your Choice?” Drawing from the Scripture readings in John 3 and John 15, Pastor Maurede challenged the congregation to examine their personal response to God’s love and invitation.
Referencing Nicodemus’ encounter with Jesus, Pastor Maurede highlighted humanity’s tendency to choose darkness rather than light, despite the light offering true life and freedom. Like Nicodemus, he explained, many come to Jesus cautiously, yet Christ lovingly invites all to step fully into the light. “Nicodemus needed the light,” he reminded the congregation, “and so do we.”
Pastor Maurede admonished the body of Christ to love God not only for His blessings, but for who He is, allowing that love to shape every decision. Emphasising Jesus’ words, he urged believers to let the world know that “the love of God constrains us.” This love, he said, compels believers to live boldly, faithfully, and unashamedly for Christ.
The baptisms were conducted by Pastor Berhanu Tsehaye, Area 6D Coordinator, together with Pastor Clayton Maurede, adding to the reverence and joy of the occasion. Each baptism represented a public declaration of faith and a commitment to walk in newness of life with Christ.
With clarity and conviction, Pastor Maurede declared that choosing Jesus is choosing life. “If you want life,” he reminded the congregation, “Jesus says, choose life—and be bold in your decision.” The baptismal candidates stood as living testimonies of individuals sold out to Jesus, choosing faith over fear and light over darkness.
In addition to the baptisms, the church family also joyfully welcomed newly transferred members, Brother David and Sister Jacqueline Richardson, who were officially received into the Southall SDA Church family. Their arrival was celebrated as another blessing, strengthening the bonds of fellowship and unity within the congregation.
As each candidate entered the waters of baptism, the church rejoiced, celebrating not only what God had done, but what He continues to do through transformed lives. The service concluded with praise and gratitude, affirming that this was not an ending, but the beginning of a lifelong walk with Christ.
Indeed, heaven rejoiced, and Southall SDA Church was blessed to witness the power of God’s redeeming love at work—ten lives changed, hearts committed, and a church renewed in hope, love, and purpose.
