Battesimi nel lago Providence, Louisiana

The pastors and deacons of five baptists churches in Louisiana and Mississippi baptize new congregants during an annual summer revival in Lake Providence, Louisiana, USA, 31 July 2011. Baptist churches flourish in the region, which is one of the poorest in the country. One of the American South’s most symbolic religious traditions is making a comeback. Outdoor baptisms, popularized in the 18th century by African slaves, had all but disappeared by the 1950s with the rise of indoor baptismal pools. Yet an increasing number of Baptist churches are forsaking the safety and convenience of these pools for nearby rivers, lakes, oceans, and even fire hoses. ‘It’s a re-discovery,’ says Gregory Hughes, Pastor of True Life Ministries, which holds an annual ocean baptism in St. Simons Island, Georgia. ‘It’s a way to embrace tradition while renewing our spirit.’ (EPA/JIM LO SCALZO)