In an unprecedented spiritual movement, thousands of people across the United States publicly declared their faith through baptism on Pentecost Sunday.

According to the Christian Post, the nationwide revival, led by Baptize America and supported by more than 600 churches, resulted in over 28,000 baptisms across the U.S. and additional events in countries such as Canada, Paraguay, and Sweden.

The large-scale initiative was driven by Pastor Mark Francey of Oceans Church in California. Francey shared that the vision for Baptize America emerged during a prayer session, where he felt deeply called to focus the movement around Pentecost Sunday due to its biblical importance as the birth of the Christian church.

Pentecost Sunday chosen for spiritual significance

"I heard a small, still voice," Francey recalled. "The pivotal moment came when I sensed that the day of Pentecost was meant to be the date — a time for people everywhere to come and be baptized." He saw this as an opportunity to make the day not only meaningful for the church but also attractive for individuals unfamiliar with Christian traditions.

Baptisms took place at more than 1,000 local sites across the United States, with enthusiastic participation from large and small congregations alike. According to Francey, five of the ten largest churches in the country supported the event, helping to provide critical visibility and momentum.

The final count of U.S. baptisms has not been confirmed, but organizers estimate that between 28,000 and 30,000 people participated. International events added around 1,100 baptisms in Canada, supported by a sister initiative dubbed Baptize Canada.

Regional churches report local milestones.

Other countries, including Paraguay and Sweden, also held smaller baptism gatherings as part of the global effort. These events highlight how the movement is beginning to extend its reach beyond North America, in line with Francey’s original vision.

Individual churches across the U.S. shared the impact felt in their communities. In Delaware, Victory Christian Fellowship of New Castle baptized twelve people. Lead Pastor Laurie Idahosa described the experience as “simply incredible,” noting that her church regularly joins in similar spiritual events and is committed to serving both locally and globally.

GrowLife Church in Land O’Lakes, Florida, baptized 22 people. Care Pastor Kandi Bailey expressed her church’s motivation to be part of something larger, stating, “We wanted to join with others who are declaring their faith.” She added that witnessing so many people choose baptism presents “a beautiful heavenly perspective.”

Movement rooted in community and global outreach

In Connecticut, local churches also joined the initiative. Shoreline Church in Old Lyme baptized 23 attendees. Pastors Michael and Meredith Calo emphasized the growing curiosity and spiritual search among young people today, which they attribute to a revival of faith amid unstable times.

“We sense that the Holy Spirit is especially active now, during this time of unrest,” they said. “Many are seeking deeper answers, and we believe Christ is the answer to that hunger.”

Living Waters Fellowship Church in Windsor Locks also took part in the day’s events. Pastor Vasily Ivanov underscored the global importance of the movement, saying, "God is always on the move,” and that the time for spiritual urgency is now. “Jesus is coming soon,” he added.

California served as the launch point.t

The concept for Baptize America closely follows Francey’s earlier initiative, Baptize California, which took place in May at Huntington Beach. That event saw over 7,700 people publicly commit to Christ. Approximately 1,100 individuals chose to follow Jesus during the event itself, reinforcing for organizers the demand for mass baptism opportunities.

Pirate’s Cove in California served as an initial focal point for the revival’s expansion. Francey believes it symbolized the beginning of a wave that would move from California, spread across the U.S., and eventually reach far corners of the globe.

Reflecting on the success of Pentecost Sunday, Francey credited divine guidance. “It truly felt orchestrated,” he said, “with the right people in the right places at the right time.”

Organizers point to o larger spiritual shift.

The event’s scale was made possible through a collaborative effort, with widespread support from major churches and grassroots organizers alike. Francey praised the willingness of church leaders to rally together for a common spiritual cause.

“When what you're doing is beyond your ability, you know you can’t take credit for it,” he said. “It felt like God's presence was with us, coordinating every step.”

For many participants and leaders, the Pentecost baptisms represent more than a moment. They echo a changing tide — a renewed interest in faith and community in a time where many are seeking connection and clarity.