The small desert town of Blythe, on the California-Arizona border, is often associated with its heat, prison, and remoteness. But on October 26, the Colorado River became the setting for something remarkable—a baptismal celebration that united the local church community.
Nearly 100 people gathered at Peter McIntyre County Park to witness ten individuals publicly commit their lives to Jesus through baptism. This event marked the first of its kind for the area and brought together two congregations—the Blythe Seventh-day Adventist Church and Blythe Central Church. Four candidates came from the Blythe church, while a family of six represented the Blythe Central church. The day was filled with unity, joy, and spiritual renewal.
Led by Gabriel Riojas, district pastor and local church elders, the baptisms in the Colorado River inspired cheers as each candidate emerged from the water. Among them was Genesis Brodkin from Blythe Central, who shared, “I want to grow closer to Jesus and love God better.” Reflecting on the day, she called it “the best day of my life.” Genesis was joined by five family members, including her grandfather, cousins, and sibling, making the moment even more profound. Cheers echoed as each candidate were washed in the waters of the Colorado River.
A particularly touching moment came when Kiana Ortiz, a Blythe Church member, was baptized alongside her husband, Diego—the first and only double baptism of the day. Having attended the church intermittently for thirteen years, Kiana shared that it wasn’t until recently that she considered baptism. “It was lovely and so different,” she said. “Being baptized with my husband was refreshing and unforgettable.” Her story is a reminder of the importance of reaching those already in our midst.
The celebration concluded with a shared potluck, symbolizing the unity of the two congregations. Despite the town's challenges, such as poverty and slow growth, the beautiful scene of baptisms demonstrated that God is actively working in even the most remote places. In Blythe, where little seems to move, God is moving in powerful ways.
