Use when someone says they want to be baptized, join a church, or become a member of a faith community. Always their choice, never a condition for help.
In danger right now: call 911. Crisis or thoughts of suicide: call or text 988. Not sure where to start? Call the Silver City Gospel Mission: 575-388-5071. Police, fire or sheriff, not an emergency: 575-388-8840 (Central Dispatch). Print our list of phone numbers →
These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.
1Listen and celebrate their choice
You can say"I'm glad you told me. This is your choice, and help here never depends on it."
You can ask"What made you start thinking about this?"
You can ask"Have you been baptized before? Do you have a church or tradition in mind?"
You can say"See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?" (Acts 8:36, KJV)
2Pray and talk it through, if they want
You can ask"Would you like to pray about it together?"
At the Gospel MissionPeer support counselors can talk with them about faith and next steps.
2 Arroyo Seco Rd, Silver City · Sun 10-11 am worship and Arise Kids; Sunday life groups 9 am and 11:10 am; Wed 6-7 pm adult Bible study and kids, students (grades 6-12) 6-8 pm. Office Mon-Thu 9 am-3 pm
204 Cortez Ave, Hurley · Sun 9 am (Spanish) and 10:30 am; Tue-Fri 8 am; 1st Saturday 11 am
4Clear the small barriers
You can ask"Is anything making it hard to go, like clothes, a ride, or feeling nervous?"
At the Gospel MissionThe clothing bank can help with clean clothes (2 visits every 30 days).
You can say"Churches are for people with a past. You don't have to clean up first."
This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer
Know a better way? Is something out of date?
If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.
📞 We need volunteers to keep this guide up to date. You can help from home, an hour a week. See how →
Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, 575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.