What is Baccalaureate? (There’s one coming up this Sunday)

Published 9:39 am Tuesday, May 26, 2015

Baccalaureate is a traditional service of Christian worship offered to graduating seniors for the purpose of letting them know that God and the Church community care about their future. It is organized by a committee composed of several church members and local pastors along with support from the high school. The speaker is provided from a rotating roster of pastors in the community.

This year Pastor Karen Humber of the Peninsula Church of the Nazarene will be the Baccalaureate speaker. Hymns, praise songs, special music (provided by high school students) and prayer will all be a part of the Baccalaureate. Several graduating seniors will also share in leading the service.

The Peninsula Church Center, located at 5000 “N” Place, Seaview, is the host site for the service this year which will take place on Sunday evening, May 31, beginning at 6 p.m. The Baccalaureate is a special time for grandparents, who have watched their grandchildren grow and have often been important examples of faith and life for them along the way. The service is also an encouragement to parents who want the best for their graduating son or daughter and want a blessing for them. Baccalaureates in local churches have long been an important part of the transition from high school into adulthood for graduates as they move into a more independent future with new challenges, opportunities and responsibilities.

Note that Baccalaureate will be the first time to publicly wear a cap and gown. It is a special event. There will be both a graduate processional for entering and a recessional for leaving the church worship area. Members of the Class of 2015 will sit together. Family and friends should arrive by at least 5:45 p.m. as the service will start promptly at 6 p.m. A reception will follow the service when graduates will have the opportunity to meet friends and family.