I Left It in the River
A public declaration of faith. A new life in Christ. One lake, one Savior, and a whole city invited.
July 25, 2026 · 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Myron Lake · Greenway entrance off W Fruitvale Blvd near 40th Ave · Yakima, WA
Free · No membership or class required
Whether you're taking your next step in baptism, supporting family and friends, or simply curious about following Jesus — you are welcome here, exactly as you are.
What is "I Left It in the River"?
It's a free, citywide outdoor baptism celebration held at Myron Lake along the Yakima Greenway. It includes water baptisms, worship, prayer teams, biblical teaching, and fellowship — all in one afternoon, open to the whole Yakima Valley community.
Do I need to join a church first?
No. Baptism follows faith, not church membership. If you've placed your trust in Jesus, you're ready. There's no class, form, or membership process required beforehand. Read more about why here →
Where exactly is it, and is there parking?
Myron Lake, at the Greenway entrance off W Fruitvale Blvd near 40th Ave in Yakima, WA. Parking is free. Look for the Simply Jesus signs at the trailhead.
What should I expect on the day?
Water baptisms, worship, prayer teams, biblical teaching, and fellowship — a full afternoon of celebration, not just a quick ceremony. Bring a change of clothes and a towel. See a full walkthrough of what happens at a baptism here →
Why get baptized?
- 1Obey Jesus
Baptism is a direct command, not an optional extra.
- 2Washed Clean
A picture of the forgiveness already given through faith.
- 3Dead to Sin, Alive in Christ
The old life ending, new life beginning.
- 4Public Declaration of Faith
Telling the people around you who you belong to now.
- 5Identifies You With Jesus
Sealed with God's promise of salvation (Mark 16:16) and the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38).
Want to go deeper? Read: What is the purpose of being baptized? →
Or browse all our baptism articles →
What happens after I'm baptized?
You're invited to a Baptism Celebration Dinner on Thursday, August 20 at Simply Jesus Church (3902 Summitview Ave, Yakima) — no charge, just connection, with a personalized baptism photo button keepsake included for everyone baptized.
Beyond that, five simple next steps: walk with Jesus daily, spend time in God's Word, grow with a church family, share what He's done in your life, and live it out day to day.
How do I sign up?
There's no form. Email simplyjesusprayerkitchen@gmail.com with the subject "I Want to Be Baptized," or just show up on July 25th — you're welcome either way.
Baptism Event FAQs
What to bring, what to wear, and what to expect on Saturday.
What is I Left It in the River?
I Left It in the River is a free citywide baptism celebration in Yakima, WA, held at Myron Lake on July 25, 2026, including water baptisms, worship, prayer teams, biblical teaching, and fellowship.
Do I need to join a church before I can be baptized at this event?
No. Baptism follows faith, not church membership. No class or membership process is required beforehand.
Where is the Yakima citywide baptism held?
At Myron Lake, at the Greenway entrance off W Fruitvale Blvd near 40th Ave in Yakima, WA. Free parking is available at the trailhead.
What should I bring to the baptism event?
Bring a full change of dry clothes (top, bottom, undergarments, dry shoes or sandals), a beach towel, water, sunscreen, and a plastic bag for wet clothes on the way home. The event runs 11:00 AM–3:00 PM.
What should I wear to be baptized in the river?
Something modest, comfortable, and easy to change out of when wet — most people wear a dark t-shirt and shorts over a swimsuit. Athletic clothes work well because they dry fast and don't cling. Avoid white or light shirts (they turn see-through when wet) and heavy denim (very hard to change out of).
What should I expect during the baptism?
Come to Myron Lake, find the Simply Jesus Prayer Kitchen group near the water, and tell someone you want to be baptized. You'll have a short, friendly conversation, change into what you'll be baptized in, walk into the water with whoever is baptizing you, share one or two sentences of faith in your own words, get lowered under and lifted back up, then dry off and celebrate. The whole thing takes only a few minutes.
How do I sign up to be baptized?
Email simplyjesusprayerkitchen@gmail.com with the subject 'I Want to Be Baptized,' or simply attend the event on July 25, 2026. Walk-ups are welcome and expected.
More on Baptism
Honest answers to the questions people ask before they step into the water.
Can You Get Baptized in Yakima Without Joining a Church First?
Yes — you can get baptized in Yakima Valley without joining a church first. Here's what the Bible actually says, and how to be baptized at our July 25th river baptism at Myron Lake.
Read article →What Is the Purpose of Being Baptized?
The purpose of baptism is to publicly declare your faith in Jesus and identify with His death and resurrection. Here's what it means, and how to take that step in Yakima Valley.
Read article →What Happens When You Get Baptized?
Wondering what actually happens at a baptism? Here's what to expect step by step, what to bring, and how it works at our outdoor baptism event in Yakima Valley.
Read article →What Did Jesus Say About Baptism, and What Does 1 Peter 3:21 Mean?
What did Jesus actually say about baptism, and what does 1 Peter 3:21 mean when it says baptism 'now saves you'? Here's a clear look at both.
Read article →How Do I Find a New Church in Yakima?
Looking for a new church in Yakima? Here's what to actually look for, and an invitation to check out Simply Jesus Prayer Kitchen's weekly gatherings.
Read article →
Invite a friend, family member, or your whole small group.
One decision. A lifetime of faith.
New life starts in the water.