Can a simple wave from a lawn crew serving free hot dogs on a summer evening change someone’s spiritual trajectory?
On July 16th, 2026, Tim, Angie, Courtney, and a crew of enthusiastic kids stood outside our building waving signs. They offered free hot dogs, burgers, and cold water to anyone passing by. It was a simple invitation to come check out our open house.
Ashley Ripple happened to see those signs. Ashley’s journey is a vivid picture of what baptism for a new believer looks like when raw faith meets open arms. She pulled in, met several women from our church family, and spent time talking with Pastor Ken. That initial connection brought her back three days later for our official launch service on July 19th. What happened during the altar call that morning set off a chain reaction that led straight to her stepping into the waters of baptism on August 9th.
The Power of Raw, Honest Faith
When Pastor Ken gave the altar call on July 19th, Ashley did not hesitate. She walked to the front of the sanctuary, declaring her desire to give her life to Christ.
Pastor Ken looked at her and asked a foundational question: “Do you believe Jesus died on the third day and rose again?”
Ashley replied with pure, unfiltered honesty: “I do! I don’t know how I do, but I believe!!”
Choosing Belief Over Complete Explanation
Her response immediately filled the room with joyful, celebratory laughter. Most people in the sanctuary had never witnessed someone experience the work of God in real time quite like that. Ashley did not know Jesus through years of reading biblical commentary, yet her heart possessed an undeniable conviction.
Pastor Ken paused to reassure her and the entire congregation. He pointed out that saving faith does not require a seminary degree on day one. He reminded us that no one knows everything at the start. We all grow in knowledge and understanding as we walk with Him over time.
That exchange reflects the heart of Romans 10:9, which tells us that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. That truth is why baptism for a new believer is rooted in trust rather than an academic test.
An External Sign of an Internal Renewal
That very morning, Ashley made two life-changing choices: she gave her life to Jesus and chose to join We Believe Kingdom Church as a member.
Scripture reminds us in 2 Corinthians 5:17 that if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature. The old things passed away, and behold, new things have come. That internal transformation is precisely what makes baptism for a new believer such a pivotal milestone. It takes an inward work of grace and displays it publicly for the church family to witness and celebrate.
Celebrating the Waters: The August 9th Baptism
Just three weeks after making her declaration at the altar, August 9th arrived.
When Ashley stepped up to the baptismal waters, you could see she was completely ready for this next step. The sanctuary was electric. Excitement radiated from Ashley, and the entire room erupted in celebration as she prepared to be submerged.
Witnessing baptism for a new believer refreshes the spiritual atmosphere of a church. It reminds every person in the seats of the day they first stepped out in faith. It proves that the gospel is active, alive, and moving in our St. Louis community right now.
Life After the Water: Growing Together at WBKC
Getting baptized is a major milestone, but it is actually the beginning of a whole new lifestyle. Ashley did not wait to jump right into the life of our church family.
Active Discipleship and Fresh Energy
Since joining WBKC, Ashley has already made a real mark on our church family:
- Connecting with the Kids: The children at WBKC instantly warmed up to her, gaining a energetic friend who brings fun and brightness into the room whenever she is around.
- Bible Study: Her active participation in weekly Bible study has been inspiring for everyone present as she dives into God’s Word and learns more about Christ.
- Community Engagement: She has quickly moved from a first-time visitor to a central part of our community life.
The Importance of Walking Together
The early church model in Acts 2:42 shows believers continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. Ashley’s immediate integration demonstrates why supporting baptism for a new believer requires an intentional, loving community that walks alongside new Christians every step of the way.
You can check out our upcoming church events and gatherings to see how our family connects throughout the week.
Conclusion: Taking Your Own First Step
Ashley’s story is a powerful reminder that God meets us right where we are. You do not need to clean up your life, memorize every book of the Bible, or have all your questions answered before you turn toward Jesus. All it takes is a willing heart ready to say, “I believe.”
If you are living in the St. Louis area and looking for a church family where you can learn, grow, and apply biblical truths at your own pace, we would love to meet you. Whether you want to learn more about baptism for a new believer or simply want to experience genuine community, there is a place for you here.
Come visit us this Sunday at We Believe Kingdom Church and take your next step with us!
