A Note from Brian Baker
Happy New Year! It is my prayer that you had a wonderful time with your student over Christmas break. It has been very quiet on both of our campuses, and we are excited to welcome students back soon.
My prayer for each student is that they return with hearts ready to learn and grow together. From now until Spring Break is one of my favorite times of the year as we enter our winter camp season here at Word of Life.
Your students will embark on a life-changing couple of months as they minister to hundreds of teenagers each weekend while continuing to learn and grow in the classroom. Please be praying for spiritual impact—both for our students and for the teenagers they will minister to.
To God be the glory!
New York
Past Events
December
Students wrapped up their Fall Semester, which was a big accomplishment for everyone. One highlight was our first-year students presenting their Capstone Projects for Old Testament Literature with Dr. Jared August.
These projects included original songs, video skits, children’s books, and other creative expressions that represented what students learned from the Old Testament. Everyone worked very hard and enjoyed the opportunity to showcase both learning and creativity.
We also enjoyed our student body Christmas party, which included a dorm decorating contest and tours, a gingerbread house decorating contest, and a movie night. Any opportunity to celebrate together is a joy, and the students had a great time.
Upcoming Events
January – Snow Camp Season
Winter at the New York Campus means one thing: Snow Camp season! Below are some helpful packing reminders to help students stay warm while serving.
What to Pack for Cold Weather:
- A warm winter coat, boots, hat, and gloves (essential for Snow Camp)
- Wool or polyester base layers for warmth on cold days
- Layered clothing (fleece layers work well for tubing hills and ice rinks)
- Waterproof gloves or mittens (knit mittens are not sufficient)
- Snow boots (sneakers and snow are not a good combination)
- Wool socks
- Snow pants (water-resistant or waterproof recommended)
Florida
Past Events
December
- Campus Preview Days (December 4–5): We welcomed 22 prospective students and parents. They joined our students for Campus Community—devotions and music held outdoors on the basketball courts—and attended classes and chapel on Friday. Please pray that these students would be encouraged to attend Word of Life Bible Institute.
- Christmas Caroling (December 3): Many students went caroling through the Palm Grove RV Park to bless the residents. The residents joined in, making it a joyful and meaningful experience.
- Student Christmas Party: Our theme this year was A Classy Christmas. Students dressed in formal attire, enjoyed a wonderful meal, played games, and were encouraged by a meaningful message from God’s Word.
December Graduation (December 11): We celebrated four graduates, all international students. Two shared testimonies about how God used this year to change their lives. Three of the graduates plan to continue into Second Year.
Upcoming Events
January
Spring Registration
- New Students & RAs: January 5, 2026 | 1:00–3:00 PM
- Returning Students: January 6, 2026 | 2:00–4:00 PM
Registration will take place in the Theis Assembly Center, followed immediately by orientation classes.
Missions Conference (January 7–9):
This year’s theme is “For Their Sake” (John 17:17–21). Students will hear from several missionaries and be challenged to share the gospel around the world.
Florida Conference Season:
Word of Life Florida will host 10 weeks of Bible Conferences, featuring speakers such as Dr. Erwin Lutzer, Dr. Ray Pritchard, and Dr. John Barnett. These conferences serve senior adults and the local community, and students may attend sessions when not in class. Concerts include The Annie Moses Band, Tim Zimmerman and the King’s Brass, and more.
Pursuit Camp (January 23 – March 1):
We will host six weekends of Pursuit Camp—five for junior and senior high students and one for college and career guests.
One of the most unique activities is the Penguin Slide, where students slide into a trough filled with 500 pounds of ice! Along with games and tournaments, the highlight is hearing from great youth speakers and seeing students place their faith in Christ and grow spiritually.
What to Pack When Returning from Break (Florida)
When students return, the weather will be cooler—especially in the mornings and during outdoor Pursuit Camp activities. Please be sure they pack:
- Sweatshirts or light jackets
- Athletic shoes
- Layers for cooler temperatures
We do experience frost advisories at times, so warm clothing is important.
