A Note from Brian Baker
Christmas break is just around the corner. Your students have been on a long journey through their first semester with very little time off, and they are looking forward to going home. As you prepare to welcome them back, here are a few things to keep in mind.
First, they will need rest. While we don’t want them to be idle, they will likely need some extra downtime, so consider that as you plan their break. Next, take time to clearly communicate your expectations for their visit. This includes what family events or activities you’d like them to attend and how often you expect them to be home. Remember, they also have friends they’ll want to see.
Finally, set aside intentional time to listen to what the Lord has been teaching them this semester. You will be encouraged by what you hear.
Please enjoy this special time with your student. Lynn and I want to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
New York
Past Events
Reverb 
Throughout November, your students participated in one of Word of Life’s biggest evangelistic events: Reverb. This all-night outreach gives middle and high school students an opportunity to invite their friends to a night of fun – and to hear the gospel.
Bible Institute students served in many roles, including running activities, serving pizza, and most importantly, counseling teens who responded to the gospel message. Over three weekends, Word of Life hosted 13 Reverb events, welcomed nearly 16,000 students, and celebrated 649 salvation decisions. Praise the Lord!
Be sure to ask your student about their experience and how God worked through them!
Upcoming Events
Spring Graduation 
You’re invited to celebrate our 2025 Spring Semester graduates! The ceremony will take place on December 17 at 12:00 noon during chapel. We’re so proud of these students and look forward to seeing where the Lord leads them next.
Missions Reality (Sophomores) Â
Sophomores have begun raising funds for their Missions Reality trips, scheduled for April 8–19. Missions Reality is both a course and a missions trip – allowing students to earn academic credit while learning support raising and serving on the field.
Teams will travel to Mexico, Quebec, the Philippines, and other locations. Students have applied for their preferred destinations and will receive their assignments soon!
Open Air Evangelism (Freshmen)
Freshmen are preparing for their Open Air Evangelism trip to New York City, taking place April 15–19. For many, this is a life-changing ministry experience. Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks are ideal times for students to connect with their pastors or missions committees to raise support and share their ministry goals.
Florida
Past Events
Blood Drive (November 4)
Students, staff, and RV park residents participated in our campus blood drive, donating to help save lives in our community.
Campus Community Campfire (November 13)
Students enjoyed worship, testimonies, and a devotional around the campfire.
Reverb Participation
Several ministry teams traveled to events in Jacksonville and Orlando, helping to make Reverb a memorable night for junior and senior high students.
Friendsgiving (November 17)
Our annual Friendsgiving featured a Thanksgiving meal, games, and a time of sharing blessings together.
Upcoming Events
Campus Preview Days (December 4–5)
Please pray for many prospective students to visit and consider spending a year studying God’s Word at the Bible Institute.
Spring Graduation (December 11 at 7:00 PM)
Spring students will enjoy a special dinner followed by the graduation ceremony.
Housing Options for Parents
Most visiting parents may stay in our on-campus Conference Center rooms when available. During retreat weekends, lodging may be limited. We also partner with a local hotel to offer discounted rates for Word of Life guests. For more information, please contact Guest Services at 727-379-5000. 
Both Campuses
- Florida Christmas Break: Begins December 12 after the 8:00 AM exam. Students return January 6.
- New York Christmas Break: Students may leave after class at 1:00 PM on December 18. Break officially begins December 19. Students return January 12 by 7:00 PM.
When booking flights, please allow extra travel time to the airport after the class dismissal times listed above. TSA recommends arriving two hours before domestic flights.
 
