Want to see mass baptisms in your town? Unite, pray and love one another

More than 1,000 people from five churches have gathered on Bournemouth beach to celebrate 132 mass baptisms over two weekends. Rev Tim Matthews says there’s no special secret to the growth they’re seeing - just ten years of church leaders learning to love one another as Jesus commanded them to

It’s another stunning summer morning on Bournemouth beach. It’s only 9:30am, but there’s a big crowd already - about 1,200 people laughing, singing and dancing in the sunshine. Arms are raised; kids sit on shoulders. We’re all here for the first of this year’s BCP (Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole) Church Collective beach baptisms.

Last summer, five churches joined together and baptised 92 people. This year, the baptisms are spread across two Sundays to cope with the crowds.

A loud “Amen” reverberates after the prayers. A local pastor gives a short, compelling gospel message. Then, 43 people of all ages and walks of life wade into the sea, beaming from ear to ear, some crying with joy. I’m loving it, but I’m also wondering: What’s going on here?