On April 19, 2025, Victoria Avenue Seventh-day Adventist Church in Saskatoon overflowed with people, not just people but with faith, courage, and transformation.
Seven young people—Edward, Favour G., Blessing, Favour O., Mark, Thea, and Carl—publicly committed their lives to Christ in one of the most powerful baptism services the church has ever witnessed. One moment stood out: a young woman with a deep fear of water stepped into the baptismal pool and overcame her trauma by God’s grace! It was a visible victory of faith over fear.
But this moment didn’t happen in isolation.
It resulted from an intentional, authentic approach to youth ministry pioneered by Pastor Carvil Richards. Rather than discarding traditional methods, he created a hybrid model that blends relational engagement with structured doctrinal teaching. Think youth movie nights, deep vespers conversations, and Bible studies where questions lead the way, not just answers.
At the heart of this Bible study approach is what Pastor Carvil calls the Seven S’s of Faith—Salvation, Scripture, Sabbath, Sanctuary, State of the Dead, Spiritual Gifts, and the Second Coming. These seven pillars are woven into the youth’s baptismal preparation, but not in a rigid format. Instead, they’re explored through the real questions young people already ask about life, doubt, purpose, and God.
This approach creates a safe space for honest dialogue, spiritual wrestling, and meaningful discovery. And it doesn’t stop at baptism. Post-baptism, Pastor Carvil is developing Phase Two, which involves training elders in this hybrid model so that real conversions and Bible studies continue in an atmosphere where burning, contemporary questions can be asked without judgment.
The baptism day itself was unforgettable. The church was packed, extra chairs had to be brought out, and a sense of expectation filled the air. Even when Pastor Carvil found himself locked out of his office in wet clothes, the service continued—imperfect, yes, but deeply powerful. It reminded everyone present that God works best not through polished performances, but through surrendered hearts.
And the ripples are still spreading. Since that day, two more youth have stepped forward to begin their own baptismal journey. One couple who got baptized is now preparing for marriage, showing how spiritual transformation can spark lifelong commitments.
Want to be part of this movement?
Here’s how you can join the journey at Victoria Avenue Seventh-day Adventist Church:
- Attend youth events where real questions are welcomed
- Build friendships rooted in faith and understanding
- Join Bible studies that connect timeless truths with everyday life
- Experience a community that values who you are and who you’re becoming
The next baptism is planned for August 2025.
Will you be part of the next wave of change?
By Pastor Carvil Richards, District Pastor
