A Note from Brian
We’re in a special season on both campuses as students wrap up fall classes and head into the holidays. Our students are not only growing in their understanding of His Word but also putting their faith into action – sharing the gospel, serving in local churches, and preparing for upcoming ministry trips. 
As we head into Thanksgiving, I hope you’ll take time to reflect on what God has done in your student’s life this semester. Thank you for your continued prayers and partnership as we walk alongside them in this journey of discipleship. Â
New York
Past Events
Homecoming and Family Weekend 
Homecoming Weekend was a wonderful time with alumni and families! We are always so encouraged to reconnect with those who have been impacted by the Bible Institute and to see what God is doing in their lives today. This year, we hosted a special class reunion for the Class of 1980. It was such a joy to see that group back on campus (even if it looks quite different from when they were students)! 
ACBC Conferences 
Our first weekend for the ACBC Essentials Conference was a great success. Those in attendance included current Biblical Counseling interns, students, staff members, and guests from the surrounding area who are pursuing counseling. We’re grateful to be able to offer this valuable resource and training opportunity. 
Missions Conference 
One of the most energizing weekends on our campus is Missions Conference. Students are exposed to dozens of different missions agencies, learn what the Lord is doing through Word of Life in over 90 countries, and discover how they can participate in the cause of the gospel. 
This year, students were invited to pray for and financially support a Word of Life missionary family in Togo who is in need of a vehicle. It’s always exciting to see how God moves in the hearts of those who attend this event! 
Upcoming Events
Reverb 
November is Reverb season here at Word of Life! Your student will be part of an overnight outreach event where middle and high school students attend a sporting event (usually hockey here in the Northeast), play games, and most importantly, hear the gospel. 
Bible Institute students serve in many capacities at Reverb. For some, it’s the first time they’ll have a gospel conversation—please be praying for them as they are launched into ministry! 
Spring Graduation 
You’re invited to celebrate our 2024–2025 Spring Semester graduates! The ceremony will take place on December 17 at 12:00 noon during chapel. We are so proud of these students and can’t wait to see where the Lord leads them next! 
Ministry Training Trips 
Missions Reality (Sophomores) 
This semester, sophomores are beginning to raise funds for their Missions Reality trips, which take place April 17–27. Missions Reality is both a course and a missions trip in one – students earn academic credit while learning support raising and serving on the field. 
This year’s teams will travel to locations such as Mexico, Quebec, and the Philippines. 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, scheduled for April 15–19. It’s a life-changing experience for many students, and we anticipate another fruitful year. 
Now is a great time for students to begin connecting with their pastors or missions committees during Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks to share their ministry needs and raise support. Â
Florida
Past Events
Spirit Week (September 30–October 3)
Students showed off their creativity and school spirit during Spirit Week! The themed days included Twin Tuesday, Wacky Wild Wednesday featuring Anything but a Backpack Day (students brought their school supplies in creative ways — from trash cans to tote bags), Throwback Thursday, and Fancy Friday.
Fall Festival (October 2)
Our annual Fall Festival was a great success, with outdoor games, pumpkin painting, and a BBQ dinner, followed by a time of worship and devotions under the stars.
Summer Camp Drama Outreach
This year’s summer camp drama, The Prodigal, was adapted into a one-hour production and presented to area Christian schools by our Overflow Drama Team and staff. Set in a western theme, the drama shared the story of the Prodigal Son with over 470 students in attendance — and praise God, 49 children trusted Christ as their Savior!
Campus Preview Days (October 19–21)
We welcomed 25 prospective students and 22 parents and family members to campus for our fall Campus Preview Days. Guests joined us for Thursday’s Campus Community Night, toured the new Student Life Building and dormitory, and attended classes and chapel on Friday.
Blood Drive (November 4)
Students, staff, and RV park residents participated in our campus blood drive, donating to help save lives in our community.
Upcoming Events
Reverb Outreach Events
Several of our ministry teams will be serving at Reverb events this season. The Jacksonville Reverb will take place on November 7, followed by the Orlando Reverb on November 14. These exciting all-night events combine sports, games, and powerful gospel messages — and we’re praying for many students to attend and respond to the good news of Jesus Christ.
Thanksgiving Break (November 25–December 1)
Thanksgiving Break begins after the last class on Tuesday, November 25, at 1 PM. Students are to return on Monday, December 1. The Bible Institute will be closed from Wednesday through Sunday.
Campus Preview Days (December 4–5)
Our next Campus Preview Days will be held December 4–5. Please pray for many students to visit and consider how God may be calling them to spend a year studying His Word at the Bible Institute.
Graduation (December 11)Â
Graduation for our spring students will take place on Thursday, December 11, beginning with a special dinner followed by the ceremony at 7 PM. We look forward to celebrating all that God has done in and through this class!Â
Student Spotlight 
Elena’s Story 
Elena, one of our students from El Salvador, shared that her first few weeks on campus were challenging as she adjusted to the language and culture. With help from her roommates, she has settled in and now loves studying God’s Word – especially Old Testament Literature with Mark Strout. 
Elena serves on the Spanish Ministry Team and recently attended a youth event at a Spanish church where three young people came to know Christ! She was thrilled to be part of that life-changing moment. 
Helpful Information 
Housing for Visiting Parents (Florida) 
Parents are welcome to stay in our on-campus Conference Center rooms during visits. Availability may be limited during retreat weekends. We also partner with a local hotel offering discounted rates for Word of Life guests. For details, contact Guest Services at 727-379-5000. 
Break Dates and Travel Information 
Please note the updated academic calendar for both campuses: 
- New York and Florida Thanksgiving Break: Begins Nov. 25 at 1:00 PM; students return Dec. 1 Â
- Florida Christmas Break: Begins Dec. 12 after the 8:00 AM exam; students return Jan. 6 Â
- New York Christmas Break: Begins Dec. 18 at 1:00 PM; students return Jan. 12 Â
When booking flights, please allow several hours after classes end for travel to the airport. TSA recommends arriving at least two hours before domestic flights. 
 
