The Halifax Church celebrates a special Baptism!

On June 24^th, 2011, the Halifax Dartmouth Church of Christ (HDCC) celebrated the incredible Baptism (and “re-birth”) of Jackie McLaughlin.

The story of this miracle can best told through the words of her Step-Daughter:

“My stepmom, Jackie, moved in with our family when I was 5 years old.  I only saw my mother for a few weeks a year so Jackie really was my mother-figure growing up.  She always believed in God but my father was against church so none of us really went.  During my teen years, things were rocky at home and I couldn't wait to run off to the big city and escape.  Little did I know, that the Lord was following me!  I became a Christian during my first semester at York University and immediately started telling my family about my changes.  Jackie was always supportive, and I was so grateful when a church was finally planted in Halifax.  A little over 10 years ago, Jackie came to church with me once and signed herself up for Women's Day. I was ecstatic. After much studying of the Bible with the women in the Halifax church, Jackie decided that part of her repentance was to legally marry my dad, since they had been living together for 29 years.  Disciples served all through the wedding, hosted a shower for her, and Greg Taylor even performed the ceremony.  Yet after further study, Jackie walked away from studies and was not ready for the commitment.  Ten years later, her health had really taken a toll on her and she had nearly died several times.  My husband, children, Bible Talk, and I were praying fervently for God to move in Jackie's heart.  Then Jackie and I spoke, and she (on her own) asked me if I would help her get right with God!  Tears of joy were everywhere, and I flew up to Halifax to spend some time with her and to study, pray, and talk.  The wonderful women of the Halifax church, especially Nancy Taylor and Lynn Gallagher continued studying with her. Less than a month later, my family and I drove up for a visit and had a wonderful time of rejoicing as we were able to be there to see Jackie baptized.  I am extremely grateful for the love of Christ that is so evident in the church in Halifax; do everything from hospital visits to making a video of the special occasion for us!  I am also grateful that back when I was 5 years old, God had a plan when he put Jackie into my life.  Her faith and strength continually inspire me, as she faces her life with courage and joy, despite constant illness and negative feedback, and discouragement from my father.  I praise God daily for how he has moved, and I have grown in my trust in him and his timing.  (Jeremiah 29:11-13)”, said Jennifer Hutchins.

“Jackie was a pure joy to study the Bible with. She has an amazing spirit despite her health, and almost died when she started studying in May.” said Nancy Taylor.

 She always had a heart to know God, and was always very eager. It was like studying with friend you had known for many years. Jackie was/is always very warm and, funny, and always had great questions. She was a joy to study with, and had deep questions to answer in her own soul. She very much loves God deeply.” said Lynn Gallagher.

“When I got Baptised, it was like an incredible weight lifted at that moment! And, I swear, I saw a light from Heaven! (laughing). It was such a fabulous feeling, one of a deep cleansing! I was "re-born"! It was so great to have Jennifer and her family there!” said Jackie.

It should be noted that before her illness, Jackie was a highly respected Team Leader of the Halifax Fire Department. She was instrumental in overseeing the needs of the staffing of various departments, during the mergers of the Fire Departments of several cities, (64 fire stations in total), into what is now known as the Halifax Regional Municipality.

Please welcome our sister into the family of God! The Halifax Dartmouth Church of Christ also asks that you pray for Jackie’s health needs, and the needs of her family.