What an Experience At the Showboat in Atlantic City, NJ
by tammy keel
Baptized rejoice in ocean waters of Atlantic City
"It's more than a festival. It's an Experience," the flyer screamed out. At the Be Praise Fest, it was just that—a bold, confident experience. With so many Juneteenth celebrations going on around the country, this was the largest held for a three-day event for the Black Excellence culture. Attendees celebrated the Be Festival, Juneteenth, and Father's Day with educational, historical, inspiring workshops throughout the weekend. It was a diverse celebration that included Be Film Fest, Be Comedy Jam, Be Food Truck Pavillion, Empowerment Sessions, Be Market Place, and many gospel artists such as CL Smooth, Positive K, DJ Able, and more for the Be Music Fest.
Tammy Keel
I could only attend one day on June 18 of this wonderful three-day event from June 17-19 of 2022. According to sources, this event consisted of a collaboration with Nathan Smalls, the CEO of Black Excellence, and Brooklyn Media Publishing coming together to join forces to strengthen the Black culture, along with ministries from All Saints Evangelistic Movement—Apostle Arnold Steward and Iris Steward. Also involved was God Reaching Out Ministries—Eric McCoy, Church Without Walls Worldwide Ministries—Marvin Cratch, and many other pastors from all over. All were conducting historical baptisms on the beach, in the ocean, in front of the Showboat Hotel. I estimate 35 baptisms for that day with praise on the beach.
I interviewed a few ladies, including myself, about their baptism experience. One lady, Debbie, said, "It was refreshing. He's taking me places no one can ever take me. I know it was the salt of Christ that cleansed me." She was in awe of the Great I Am. The other lady, Kathy, said she experienced God all over herself even before she hit the water. She felt renewed, along with abundant peace and joy, while being washed by the blood of the lamb and purified. Additionally, her two daughters with her got to witness this incredible, joyful time alongside their mother. I experience a humbling spirit, surrendered spirit, refreshing cleanse, and whole new life.
Following the baptism, there was preaching in one of the Showboat conference rooms. Afterward, Debbie and I walked the boards to give the people Gospel tracts, witness, and pray with whoever needed it. I'm thankful for the opportunity to evangelize. What a day filled with the Holy God's presence, and to think this is an annual event. I can't wait until next year.
Sources from: Apostle Arnold Steward and Flyer links. And what I experienced throughout the day.