Local carpenter builds his own pool for baptism

A carpenter from Lower Quinton has been baptised in a pool that he constructed himself.

Harry Malin, who runs H.M Carpentry, was baptised by the Revd Jay Niblett during the summer. He used his carpentry skills to adapt an existing pool in Jay’s garden, cladding it in timber so that friends, family and church members could gather around and witness the occasion.

Harry said: “It took about 12 hours to build overall. I sourced timber from a local builders’ merchant and used it to clad the outside of the pool, closing it off and strengthening the structure. I then adapted it to make it safer and easier to use for the baptism. Woodwork is second nature to me – it’s an absolute passion of mine.

“The original idea was to get baptised in a lake, but after some deeper thought it seemed more appropriate to use a pool in Jay’s back garden. I had a vision to adapt it and build around where needed so that everyone could gather around and be part of my baptism. I really liked the idea of being baptised in a pool that I had made myself, using the skills that God had blessed me with to confirm my faith.”

Harry’s journey to faith began when the couple sought to have their second daughter christened. After meeting Jay, Harry attended a 321 Course with his wife, and soon became a regular at church services. The family attends RiverVale Churches, a benefice of five congregations across Quinton, Welford on Avon, Long Marston, Meon Vale and Weston-on-Avon.

“We have found church to be a place of peace, worship and welcoming – a place to belong, believe and become,” Harry said.

Before his baptism, Harry was the only member of his family not baptised. Guided by Jay, he decided to take the step. Harry and his wife now help out with church activities, including community events, toddler groups, and youth groups.

“My baptism experience was life-changing, I felt reborn after my baptism. I already felt accepted by God, and my faith, but it felt more confirmed after my baptism. It brought me closer to God.

“The most meaningful part of building the pool and being baptised was declaring my faith, with my family and friends around me to witness it. To be reborn, to celebrate faith, and to be surrounded by the love and support of everyone we’ve met along the way at RiverVale Churches.”

Jay said: “Harry is an outdoorsman – a fisherman and a carpenter – he’s very grounded and practical. It felt natural for his baptism to take place in an outdoor setting. We welcomed members of our congregation into the rectory garden and celebrated with a garden party. It was a beautiful way of bringing together his work and his faith. God doesn’t waste anything – the gifts and skills we’ve been given can be used for Him as well as for ourselves.”

If you are interested in learning more about Christianity and baptism, contact your local church.