Nicole Doty

I’m Nicole Doty. Before making Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior, I imagined church would feel like a chore — just another thing to do on Sunday. I had no real understanding of the depth of connection and purpose that church could offer. Before coming back to the church, I often felt like something was missing in my life, but I couldn’t quite put my finger on it. I always knew in my heart that I wanted to return, but I just didn’t know how to get to that point. It wasn’t until about this time last year that I realized church was much more than a Sunday obligation. Someone very important to me invited me to Groton Bible Chapel on Easter of last year, and that was a turning point. I began to understand that church is not just a building; it is a sanctuary — a place where people can find peace, healing, and refuge in God’s presence. I now know that the church is where I can truly connect with God and others in a meaningful way. Since returning to church, I have felt more at peace knowing I can rely on Jesus as my Savior. Romans 6:4 says, “We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” This verse beautifully illustrates the meaning of baptism—dying to our old selves and rising to a new life with Christ. Today, through baptism, I am symbolizing my new beginning in my walk in faith and embracing the fresh start God has given me.