Since the beginning of A Rocha Česko (Czechia, Czech Republic), the field centre called Krupárna (Mill) has been a meeting point of all kinds of people, with various backgrounds, skillsets, gifts and stories. All kinds of people and all working towards one shared goal – creating a place where Christians can manifest their love to God as both Saviour and Creator, protecting nature as God´s creation and inspiring both believers and non-believers to do likewise.
Turning the former mill and factory into an environmental centre was a long and messy process. But creating five biodiversity ponds was much messier and muddier! However, these ponds are now thriving with life, full of splendid colours, smells and sounds, and full of opportunities for children to observe wildlife, play with the elements, or have a short swim.
For many years, four local evangelical churches have also been using the most beautiful pond for baptisms. About 60 people, mainly young, have been baptized here. It´s always a solemn and joyous event. Family members and friends stand around the pond in a circle, singing hymns, praying and witnessing this key moment in a young Christian life. The solemnity is enhanced and carried by the grandeur of the surrounding nature, the lush greenery and the soothing and comforting beauty of a place vibrant with life.
Those involved do not believe baptism in a pond in this beautiful place is any better or ‘more spiritual’ than baptism in a contemporary, concrete church building. However, the surrounding concert of wildlife is something that makes baptism speak more powerfully to the whole congregation present.
