Actor and comedian Russell Brand has shared his experience of being baptised in a social media post.
After months of openly discussing his journey of faith with millions of followers, the 48-year-old announced his decision to "take the plunge" in the River Thames last week.
Describing his baptism as an "incredible experience," Brand expressed feelings of being "blessed, relieved, nourished," and "held”.
Brand has recently faced heightened scrutiny following a collaborative investigation by The Times, The Sunday Times, and Channel 4’s Dispatches, which brought forth allegations from four women accusing Brand of abusive behaviour. The accusations include rape, sexual assault, and emotional abuse.
The Metropolitan Police have interviewed Brand twice under caution regarding "non-recent" sexual offenses, which are believed to be unrelated to the initially reported crimes.
Brand denies the allegations.
Reflecting on the aftermath of his baptism, Brand acknowledged the challenges of daily life, including parenthood and work responsibilities. However, he noted a newfound resilience within himself, a "new resource" that had been activated.
“Something occurred in the process of baptism, that was incredible, overwhelming, literally overwhelming because I was obviously underwater, and it was the River Thames at some points. So I felt change transitioned.
“Now of course, even though it's been less than 24 hours in the interim period, I've already felt like sort of irritation, I've got three children, I've got a job, I've got challenges, I still live in the world. But I feel as if some new resource within me has switched on,” he said.
While details of the church where Brand was baptised remain scarce, Premier Christian News understands that the ceremony took place at a Church of England church that wants to remain out of the spotlight.
In his video, the celebrity said there were “amazing individuals involved” and shared there were “incredible and bizarre incidents that took place but felt serendipitous and laden”.
“This is new to me, and it's a joy to me,” he continued. “And I know that I'm not expected to be perfect. And I know that that's not something I'll be able to deliver.”
He concluded: “Those of you that I've embraced me I'm so grateful. I can't tell you how happy I feel and how relieved I feel but as you know, if you know, my resources are coming from somewhere else and someone else now. Thank you so much for your support desk, keep doing this together or certainly I'm just gonna do what I'm doing. I love you so much. I'm so grateful to be surrendered in Christ. See you all soon.”