Indiana — Megan Dupont, a sophomore at Indiana Academy, was baptized during the first Friday night vespers of the new school year. This may seem unremarkable until you know more about her story.

It begins in Louisiana, where Megan grew up. At her baptism, she shared the following about her journey with Jesus:

“I was born in Marksville, Louisiana, to Monica and Carl Dupont. They said I was a good baby — hardly ever cried. Growing up, my grandma taught my Sunday School class at a Methodist Church. I always knew that Jesus loved me. I knew that He died on the cross for my sins. I loved to listen to Bible stories that told of God's love. I watched children's Bible movies. I loved Jesus!

I went to public school all my life. And all my life, my family tried to get me to go to an Adventist academy when I became of age. I always said no. Then, two summers ago, I came to Indiana for camp meeting. I loved it! Everyone was so nice. I met Katie Paul and Katie Ferguson. They were great. I decided I wanted to go to Indiana Academy. But … I was never going to become [an] Adventist. Adventists were so boring! They slept all day on Saturday and they didn't do anything on Friday night. I didn't like to take naps and I liked to go to the movies on Friday nights.

But during the school year something happened. I learned that you don't automatically go to heaven or hell when you die. I learned that there is no such thing as the rapture and purgatory. I learned about the Sabbath.

... I asked Pastor Neri to give me Bible studies. Since then, my life hasn't been carefree, easier, or without temptation. But, it has been a lot more peaceful and joyful. I have also decided to get baptized by Pastor Neri.

Baptism isn't just a public commitment of my life to Jesus. It's a turning point in my life. I have decided to follow Jesus. The world is behind me and the cross is before me. There is no turning back — it's just like the hymn says.”

As you can see, Megan has grown a lot during her time in Christian education at Indiana Academy. If this story can be repeated in other young peoples' lives, many more students will enjoy the happiness that connects them to a relationship with God. Let us encourage each other in our walk with the Lord.

Andrew Lay, Indiana Academy communication director