Brian Baker Speaking

The Bridge: May 2, 2025

A Note from Brian 

As the academic part of the school year ends, I first want to say how blessed I am to see the maturity in our student body this year. Watching them grow and change brings joy to my heart. God has truly done a great work. 

As we look ahead, I cannot emphasize enough how the upcoming summer ministry is the perfect capstone to the year. All they have learned in the classroom this year will be tested during the summer. When August comes, they will look back on this time and see how God used them to impact the lives of countless young people. Pray with me that all our students will finish this year strong. To God be the glory! 

Latest News 

New York 

Past Events: 
 
Missions Reality and Open Air Evangelism: Our entire student body has embarked on an amazing journey, sharing their faith with people across the world! Freshmen spent several days in New York City sharing the gospel through Open Air Evangelism. They had gospel conversations with 3,688 individuals and we praise God for 166 people accepting Christ! 
 
Our sophomore class traveled around the world to serve alongside Word of Life missionaries in Belize, Québec, and even Taiwan, to name a few. Ask your student what the Lord did in and through them on their missions trip! 

Upcoming Events: 

  • Campus Preview Days (May 1–2):  
    Guests will join us for activities beginning Thursday evening, including a special welcome session and evening program. On Friday, they’ll attend classes, experience chapel, and tour the campus. If someone you know cannot make it for Campus Preview Days, encourage them to schedule an Individual Visit instead! 
  • Secret Church (May 3): This six-hour intensive study through the book of Matthew, led remotely by David Platt, will give students a taste of what the persecuted church endures around the world. This free event is a powerful opportunity for students to deepen their faith. 
  • Student Banquet (May 9): Always a highlight of the year! Students will come dressed in their best cowboy gear, enjoy a great meal, and showcase their talents in a fan-favorite show. 

Florida

Past Events: 

  • Campus Preview Days (April 3–4): We hosted about 20 visitors, including parents. Many showed strong interest in attending the Bible Institute. 
  • Spring Banquet (April 14): With a 1940s–1950s mystery theme, Shadows and Silhouettes, students enjoyed a wonderful evening of food, fun, and fellowship. 
  • Easter Egg Blessing: RV Park residents generously prepared and gifted Easter eggs filled with treats for our students. We are so thankful for their love and support! 

Upcoming Events: 

  • 28th Annual Luau (May 1): We will gather at the pool for a cookout and fun water competitions like alligator wrestling and belly-flop contests, followed by a time of praise and worship. 
  • Campus Preview Days (May 1–2): Guests will join us for the Luau on Thursday and attend class and chapel on Friday. Please pray that they clearly sense God’s leading regarding the Bible Institute. 
  • Homecoming Weekend (May 2–4): We look forward to welcoming our alumni back to share stories of what God is doing in their lives and to be encouraged to keep growing and serving the Lord. 
  • Summer Break Begins (May 9): Classes end with an 8:00 AM exam. Students may leave after their exam. 
  • Coast Training (May 27–30): Students, supervisors, and unit leaders will register for camp and begin Summer Ministry Practicum classes. Camp training for students, Camp Crew, and Camp Staff will continue during the week of June 1–6. 

Both Campuses

  • Coast Camps (June 8–August 1): The first week of Coast Camp in Florida begins on Sunday, June 8, and the last week ends on Friday, August 1. We will host five weeks of Teen Camp (ages 12–18) and three weeks of Junior Camp (ages 6–12). 
  • Graduation – Florida (August 2): The ceremony will take place at 10:00 AM in the Bollback Performing Arts Center. Families are also invited to the End of the Year Celebration on Friday, August 1. 
  • Graduation – New York (August 16): Held at 10:00 AM at the Huskies Soccer Complex (weather permitting). In case of rain, each student will receive two guest tickets, with overflow seating available via livestream.Â