In biblical times, water baptism happened regularly, providing a symbol of spiritual cleansing, repentance and the embrace of a new faith. Wrightsville Assembly of God will bring back that practice during Worship at the River. The event will be held at Wrightsville's Riverfront Park, 301 S. Front St., on Saturday, June 27. Food trucks and live music will begin at 4:30 p.m., and a baptism service will start at 5:30 p.m.

"This is a dream that we have had for many years and are so excited to see it happen," said Morgan McNatt, events coordinator at Wrightsville Assembly of God. "You can expect amazing live worship music, a great message and a celebration of people deciding to follow Jesus."

As pastor Aaron McNatt explained, the event is an opportunity to focus on a traditional celebration.

"Water baptism is a public declaration of someone's life being changed by Jesus and has traditionally taken place in rivers, oceans and lakes," he said. "If you are thinking about being baptized, this is an open opportunity."

He noted that water baptism is considered a "step of obedience."

"It's really what the Lord calls us to do," he said. "Around here, we call that our 'first obedience' because it's the first thing we're challenged to do as followers of Christ."

Food trucks are still being finalized for the event. Music will be provided by UVF Worship, a band from the University of Valley Forge.

"They write and produce original music, as well as (perform) well-known favorites," Morgan said.

People are encouraged to be baptized in the Susquehanna River at the event. Online signup is available before the service, but people are also welcome to decide on the spot to be baptized.

Pastor McNatt will share a message and then invite anyone who is interested in participating to join him and several other pastors for the baptism.

"For those who are baptized at Worship at the River, Wrightsville Assembly of God will provide towels and an event T-shirt," Morgan said. Baptism will be available for anyone age 7 or older. Children age 12 and under must be accompanied in the river by a guardian.

People should bring their own lawn chairs or blankets for seating at the park.

The event offers an opportunity for Wrightsville Assembly of God to share the message of the love of Jesus while reinforcing Christian faith and inviting new people to publicly declare their faith.

"Worship at the River is a completely free event," Morgan said. "Everyone is welcome."

For more information, including a link to register for baptism, visit http://www.wrightsvillechurch.com.