Several years ago, a young man saw a poster for PraiseFest in a dentist office. The man approached organizers of the annual event and asked if he could be baptized. The request forged a new component of PraiseFest, one that leads around seven to 10 people to the river each year to be baptized.

“We didn’t even have a baptism boat, but because of someone’s request, it was set up and then every year, seven to 10 people get baptized,” said Emily Mayne, event coordinator. “It’s just beautiful to see that unfold.”

Now, PraiseFest includes river baptisms, where those who feel led can board a small boat and be taken over to the banks of Castle Island to be renewed in God, Mayne said.

“We’ve had little kids come forward, as well as adults who just want to refresh and renew and rededicate,” Mayne said. “It’s just been amazing to see how God uses that to call people back to him.”

Mayne said the fifth annual PraiseFest will kick off this weekend as a party for God. Like with any great party, music and dancing will fill Festival Park and toasts will be made in the form of testimony during the event.

The program will begin with Cornerstone Worship Band of New Bern, followed by a dance team from River City Christian Center. There will be a break for testimony from various people, an opportunity for attendees to be baptized and another band follows.

The nondenominational event was started to bring area Christians together as the body of Christ, Mayne said. While there is a basic schedule for PraiseFest, those in attendance, as well as those coordinating the event proceed as God leads them, she said.

“It’s for anyone who just wants to enjoy a family-filled afternoon of just worshipping the Lord and listening to live music and hearing about the goodness of God and giving him praise,” Mayne said. “It’s so powerful to see people come from all over. The draw is God and the Holy Spirit. It’s so powerful to see the body of Christ to come forward and honor the Lord with no agenda but to worship and honor the Lord as the head of the church. Anyone who wants to come is welcome to come and enjoy it and hear the good news.”

PraiseFest 2016 is set for June 4, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Festival Park. Those interested in attending are asked to bring a chair or blanket and snacks and drinks for themselves, though some beverages will be available. The event is free and open to the public.