RMA SFV hosts community baptism

Program Manager Oscar Corral (right) was “blessed” to baptize the men.

9 men commit their lives to Christ

At RMA SFV, something extraordinary took place- nine men made a bold and beautiful declaration of faith through baptism, marking a powerful turning point in their lives. It wasn’t just an event. It was a celebration of new beginnings, a testament to healing, and a public witness of transformation made possible through recovery, community and the love of God.

To honor this life-changing decision, a special event was held. The community rallied together in support- local baristas donated their time and supplies, and the chef at Home Again prepared a delicious lunch. Staff members and their families came out, not just to help, but to stand in solidarity with the men making this declaration. It was a team effort, woven together with compassion, faith and hope.

But what happened went far deeper than the setting or the meal. As the day unfolded, it became clear that this was more than a moment-it was the beginning of something sacred. Richard, a resident in the men’s Life Recovery Program, led worship, and Program Manager Oscar Corral shared a message of encouragement, speaking directly to the hearts of the families who gathered to watch their loved ones baptized.

“It’s important to recognize the impact of the Mission, the impact of Renewed Hope is going beyond its walls and into the community, ” Oscar said. “This day was a milestone not just for the men being baptized, but for the people who love them.

The joy and excitement could be felt by all those who attended. We hope you’ll keep these men in prayer during this exciting time.

“For many families, it was a moment of reconciliation, a sign of hope rising from brokenness. They weren’t just witnessing a ceremony, they were seeing transformation in real time. The change from darkness into the light of Jesus.”

The men shared what led them here-stories of loss, loneliness, fear, trauma, and hopelessness. But all pointed to one thing: it was the love from the men in the home, the staff, their families, and the community that helped guide them to this momentous decision. Though they are still in the program, many shared how they can’t believe how much their lives have already changed.

And the transformation wasn’t limited to current residents. Uriel, a graduate of the program, also chose to be baptized. Though he completed the program, he remained closely connected to the Mission, often volunteering and giving back. When he heard about the event, he asked to be included.

“I wanted to be baptized in the home where I got my recovery; in the home where I reestablished my life,” Uriel shared.

Even a friend of the Mission, not a resident, but someone who found strength and support through the community, joined in. Having walked his own path of recovery, he chose this moment to declare his faith alongside other men, standing in unity to proclaim the power of God.

“The reason that I love doing this work,” Oscar shared, “is that we’re not just changing the lives of one man, we’re changing the lives of the people around him. If he’s changed, his home is changed, his children are changed, his wife is changed. Not only that, but the legacy he leaves is changed.

“We’re grateful for the work and prayerful that others might partner with us as we continue to do it. It’s a blessing to walk with these men and see their lives transformed.”

This day was a vivid reminder of what recovery can lead to-not just sobriety, but spiritual awakening, healing, and renewal. It was a celebration of lives transformed by love, faith and a supportive community.