A New Beginning

The baptism in Lake Clark marked a new beginning for Marine Sgt. Austin Dickinson and his Air Force wife Cass. The couple, who had experienced the hardships of war and the challenges of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), found solace and hope in their faith.

Austin, who had been skeptical about Christianity, found peace and love at Samaritan Lodge Alaska. He had grown tired of people who knew nothing about him but tried to dictate how he should live his life. However, his experience at the lodge changed his perspective.

“Here there is peace and love. I have not experienced such tranquility since before the war,” Austin said.

The couple had faced their fair share of struggles. Austin had served in Iraq and Afghanistan, witnessing the destruction and loss caused by the insurgency. He had also suffered a traumatic brain injury during his last deployment. Coming home was difficult, as he battled survivor guilt and struggled with the emotional pain and images from his time in the war.

But in Alaska, surrounded by the beauty of creation, Austin and Cass found healing and hope. They participated in marriage enrichment classes led by chaplains, where they learned to trust in God’s plan and embrace the cycles of life.

On Thursday night, the couple symbolically burned a list of burdens they wanted to leave behind. The next day, they rededicated their marriage to God and were baptized in the cold waters of Lake Clark.

Their experience at Samaritan Lodge Alaska had a profound impact on their faith. They received a Billy Graham study Bible signed by Billy Graham himself, a reminder of the spiritual journey they had embarked on.

Looking ahead, Austin and Cass plan to continue their faith journey by attending church with their neighbors in South Carolina.

“I think we should go see what it’s all about,” Austin said, surprising Cass.

Their baptism in Lake Clark was not just a symbolic act, but a testament to their newfound faith and the hope they had discovered in God. It marked a new chapter in their lives, filled with peace, love, and a renewed sense of purpose.

As they return home, Austin and Cass carry with them the memories of their time in Alaska and the transformative power of their baptism. They are ready to embrace their faith and continue their journey with God by their side.

Through their story, the Dickinsons inspire others to find hope and healing in their own lives, reminding us that even in the midst of darkness, there is always a glimmer of light.

What impact did the renewal of their marriage vows and their baptism in Lake Clark have on Austin and Cass’s spiritual journey and healing process

Hardships. Austin had served in Iraq and Afghanistan, witnessing the devastation caused by insurgency and carrying the weight of survivor guilt. Their time in Alaska allowed them to reconnect with nature and brought them closer to each other and to God.

In marriage enrichment classes led by chaplains at Samaritan Lodge, the Dickinsons embraced the motto, “everything has a cycle.” They recognized that their past experiences, no matter how challenging, had ultimately led them to a deeper understanding of God’s love and purpose for their lives.

To symbolize their desire to let go of past burdens, the couple burned a list of cargo they wanted to leave behind during their time in Alaska. They also renewed their marriage vows and committed their relationship to God. Finally, they were baptized together in the cold waters of Lake Clark.

Continuing the Journey

Looking forward, Austin and Cass plan to continue their spiritual journey by attending church with their neighbors in South Carolina. The transformation that Austin’s newfound faith has brought to their lives has surprised Cass, and she is excited to explore what the church has to offer.

A lasting reminder of their time in Alaska and their renewed faith is a Billy Graham study Bible, signed by staff and volunteers at Samaritan Lodge. This gift serves as a tangible symbol of the love and support they received during their spiritual awakening.

A Testimony of Faith and Healing

The story of Austin and Cass Dickinson’s baptism in Lake Clark is a testament to the power of faith, healing, and the beauty of nature. Their journey serves as an inspiration to others who may be seeking solace and renewal in their own lives. It reminds us that even in the midst of pain and hardship, there is hope for healing and spiritual awakening.

Through their experience at Samaritan Lodge Alaska, the Dickinsons have found comfort and peace, and their journey continues as they walk hand in hand, embracing their newfound faith and the love of God.