Back in September, we all knew that the day would come when our beloved students would receive their diplomas and leave ARISE. Even though we know this it does not make saying goodbye any easier. Thus, the Commissioning service is always a bitter-sweet event.

The afternoon began with a Spirit-filled song service led out by the students followed with prayer by Pastor Mark Howard, one of the students’ favorite adjunct instructors. Various students shared testimonies of how the Lord brought them to ARISE and the work He did through them while at ARISE. These testimonies were just some of the many instances of God’s providential workings in this class. The service was highlighted by the baptisms of three graduates. Alison Kast, Ben Brendle, and Brooke Durst had all been impressed by the Holy Spirit to fully commit their lives to Him while attending ARISE.

As the evening continued, Pastor Scott Moore led the charge to the students by sharing some thoughts from the Bible and having the entire class stand and repeat, “Go, and preach the Word of God!” After the diplomas were handed out, the service drew to a close with a song of dedication called, “I’ll See You When We Get There”, sung by Billy Otto and Cristy Kay. Pastor Nathan Renner and Matt Parra concluded the Commissioning service with a prayer of dedication.

The Lord truly blessed this class during their time here and we pray that He will continue blessing them for His service as they, “Go, and preach the Word of God!”