Sister Wu Ping was finally baptized at Beijing Chaoyang Church on November 20, in a ceremony held exclusively for her, officially becoming a child of God. This ceremony was not only an affirmation of her over 20-year faith journey but also served as the best reward for Brother Lv Manxing and his wife's tireless efforts and selfless dedication over the past six months.
Due to her poor health, Wu took a taxi from her home in Fangshan District to downtown Beijing, a distance of about 50 kilometers, where she was baptized by the Rev. Zhang Zhongyun at Chaoyang Church. This special baptism ceremony was held exclusively for her.
Different challenges have marked Wu's faith journey. She once worked at a scientific research institute of Anshan Iron and Steel Group Company in Anshan City, Liaoning Province. More than two decades ago, she embraced Christianity in a church in her hometown and regularly attended services with her children. However, for various reasons, she failed to complete the baptism ceremony. Later, she moved to Beijing to start a new chapter in her life. Over the past 20 years, she has faced the loss of her family member, serious illness, and financial struggles. These difficulties caused her anxiety and pain, yet she longed to find solace and comfort in her faith, often reflecting on the joyful days during church gatherings.
This summer, while on my way to an interview, I had the opportunity to reconnect with Wu. During our conversation, we discussed life, faith, and destiny. She shared with me her desire to find a church in Beijing where she could attend services and restore her faith. Unfortunately, as I was unfamiliar with the churches in Beijing, I couldn’t offer her direct help.
I thought of Brother Lv Manxing and his wife in Beijing. They are a Christian couple who have devoted numerous years to charity work and are members of a charitable fellowship in the city. Over the years, they have volunteered at a "leprosy village" and donated tens of thousands of yuan in funds and materials. When the couple heard the news, they immediately agreed to help and took action to fulfill Wu's "dream."
Over the next two months, couple Lv made several trips from Chaoyang District, Beijing, to Wu's home in Fangshan District, a round trip of nearly 100 kilometers each time. During these visits, they brought daily necessities for her and offered support. Given her condition, Brother Lv also bought books to provide advice on her treatment.
At around 1:00 a.m. on November 21, Wu sent me a message. I am aware of her condition, as she relies on painkillers to manage her discomfort. She shared, "Today, I have achieved the most important matter in my life. I have finally become a child of the Lord." She explained, "The couple initially took me to a church nearer to my home, but that church couldn't confirm if I could be baptized. So, they then brought me to a church they frequently attend, where I was successfully baptized."
(Originally published by the Gospel Times, the article has been edited under permission and the author is a believer at a church in Liaoning.)
- Translated by Poppy Chan
