Ohio Baptists Celebrate Record Baptisms and Cooperative Program Giving

State convention sees 27% increase in baptisms and highest CP giving in 71-year history

Apr. 9, 2026 at 12:06am

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An abstract, impressionistic scene of blurred figures being baptized in a church, with soft, warm light and color creating a serene, spiritual atmosphere.The joyful celebration of new life in Christ through baptism reflects the spiritual growth and renewed commitment to evangelism in Ohio Baptist churches.Columbus Today

The State Convention of Baptists in Ohio (SCBO) is celebrating record increases in baptisms and Cooperative Program giving in 2025. The number of baptisms has steadily climbed each year since 2021, reaching 4,912 in 2025 - a 27% increase from the previous year and an 182% increase over the past 5 years. Additionally, SCBO's Cooperative Program giving reached its highest level in the convention's 71-year history, increasing from $4.37 million in 2022 to $4.86 million in 2025.

Why it matters

The growth in baptisms and Cooperative Program giving reflects the faithfulness of local church pastors in Ohio to preach the Gospel and share God's word through evangelism. This has led to more people finding new life in Christ and committing to support the convention's collective mission through increased financial giving.

The details

Since 2021, the number of baptisms in Ohio churches has been steadily climbing each year, from 1,735 in 2021 to 4,912 in 2025 - a 27% increase from the previous year and an 182% increase over the past 5 years. SCBO's Cooperative Program giving has also grown yearly from 2022-2025, reaching a record $4.86 million in 2025, an increase of more than $490,000 from 2022.

  • In 2021, there were 1,735 baptisms in Ohio churches.
  • In 2022, there were 2,296 baptisms in Ohio churches.
  • In 2023, there were 3,406 baptisms in Ohio churches.
  • In 2024, there were 3,855 baptisms in Ohio churches.
  • In 2025, there were 4,912 baptisms in Ohio churches.

The players

Jeremy Westbrook

SCBO executive director.

Buzz Kocher

SCBO director of strategic initiatives.

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What they’re saying

“Numbers represent people. I am thrilled that baptisms are on the rise in the SCBO. We experienced a 27 percent increase in 2025 and have seen an 182 percent increase since 2021. To God be the glory!!”

— Jeremy Westbrook, SCBO executive director

“I think one of the big things happening is a desire to preach the Gospel faithfully and share God's word boldly through evangelism. Our churches have recognized the importance of this. Romans 10:14-15 provides a great picture of it.”

— Buzz Kocher, SCBO director of strategic initiatives

What’s next

The SCBO plans to continue emphasizing the importance of faithful Gospel preaching and evangelism to sustain the momentum of increased baptisms and Cooperative Program giving.

The takeaway

The growth in baptisms and financial support for the SCBO's mission demonstrates the power of local churches in Ohio coming together to prioritize evangelism and the collective work of the convention. This reflects a deep commitment to the Great Commission and the transformative impact of the Gospel in people's lives.