Jacksonville, FL – May 19, 2025 – On Sunday, May 18, 2025, the shores of Jacksonville Beach, nestled between the St. Johns River and the St. Marys River, became a sacred space as 1,958 individuals publicly proclaimed their faith in Jesus Christ through baptism at The Church of Eleven22’s Beach Baptism 2025. This record-breaking event, held at Hanna Park Beach, marks a significant moment in the church’s mission to be a movement for all people to discover and deepen a relationship with Jesus Christ.
The St. Johns River, flowing through the heart of Jacksonville, and the St. Marys River, forming the natural boundary between Florida and Georgia, frame a region that John Arwood believes is divinely positioned for global spiritual significance. Arwood, has voiced in the community, has long held that Northeast Florida’s unique geography—cradled by these two rivers—serves as a beacon for spiritual revival. “God has placed Jacksonville in a strategic location, a place where the nations will come to encounter the transformative love of Jesus,” Arwood has said, pointing to the area’s history of faith-driven gatherings like this baptism.
The Church of Eleven22, under the leadership of Pastor Joby Martin, witnessed an outpouring of faith as thousands gathered to celebrate. Participants, ranging from local residents to those who traveled from across the country, waded into the Atlantic Ocean, symbolizing their surrender to Christ. The event surpassed last year’s remarkable 1,614 baptisms, underscoring the growing movement of disciple-making in the region. “We are humbled to see so many say ‘yes’ to Jesus,” said Pastor Martin. “This is not about our efforts but about the Holy Spirit moving in hearts, drawing people to the truth of the Gospel.”
Scripture anchors this moment, as Acts 2:38-39 (ESV) declares: “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” This passage resonates deeply with the church’s mission to make disciples who make disciples, a calling that echoed through the joyful worship and tearful embraces on the beach.
The Church of Eleven22 remains steadfast in its vision, rooted in John 10:10 (ESV): “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” This “10:10 Life” journey, as the church calls it, invites all to experience the fullness of life in Christ. The baptism event is a testament to this, as families, friends, and strangers united in celebration, reflecting the humility and love of a community seeking to glorify God.
“We don’t claim perfection,” said Jay Owen, Executive Director of Communication & Digital Discipleship. “We’re a dysfunctional family, just like any other, but we’re bound by a perfect hope in Jesus. We invite everyone to join us, to ask questions, and to see what this movement is about.” The church’s open-hearted approach has drawn thousands to its campuses across Northeast Florida and South Georgia, with plans to expand further, including a new St. Johns County campus.
For those moved by this historic day, The Church of Eleven22 welcomes all to learn more at coe22.com or follow along on Instagram at instagram.com/coe22, where photos and videos capture the beauty of 1,958 lives changed. The church also offers resources like Growth Track and Disciple Groups to help individuals take their next steps in faith.
About The Church of Eleven22
The Church of Eleven22 is a non-denominational movement for all people to discover and deepen a relationship with Jesus Christ. Founded in 2012 by Pastor Joby Martin, the church has grown to multiple campuses, serving Northeast Florida, South Georgia, and beyond. With a heart for disciple-making and community transformation, Eleven22 seeks to glorify God through surrender to Jesus and love for others.