by Mark Milioni
American Homecoming celebrations often include parades, parties, and a ball game. Homecoming is a special time for alumni and friends to return to a place that was very special in their lives. It is a time to remember, attend class reunions, and catch up with old friends and family. It is a festive time with lots of time spent laughing and eating.
I grew up in Albion, MI, a small town and home of Albion College. Every fall the town would swell as alumni from all over the country came to celebrate Homecoming. Their annual trek was not about what they would get; it was not about what they would give; it was simply about going back to remember, to be encouraged, and to renew old friendships.
Some discuss whether Fellowship Week is important. Some say it is not worth the expense; some say they don’t take away anything valuable; some say it is not important; some say another conference is better. Could it be that Fellowship Week is an entirely different kind of event? It is not a typical Bible or church-growth conference. I believe it is a very special event — Baptist Bible College’s Homecoming.
It is our time to renew friendships, to remember, and to reflect on what the Lord has done. It’s a time to catch up, swap stories, share pictures of bad leisure suits and big hair, and maybe even brag a little.
Will we have the latest digital 3-D imaging of our speakers? Not likely. Will you receive the latest in how to change the world by having the coolest coffee bar? Probably not. But, will our speakers share a message that God has laid upon their hearts just for you? Absolutely. Will you be encouraged and burdened to reach more? For this, I pray.
Maybe Fellowship Week is not about all you can get, but about letting the Lord remind you once again what He has done in your life and in your ministry.
This year we are celebrating Homecoming during Fellowship Week on Wednesday, May 15. We are inviting area churches, students, and faculty to participate in a special choir that will perform during the evening service. We would love to have you be part of this! Those interested should contact Nate Harmon, nharmon@gobbc.edu, for information.
On this Homecoming night, we will honor a very special couple, Richard and Beverly Boland. They will be receiving the Fellowship Faithfulness Award for their testimony, service, and ministry of godly instruction in our music department throughout the years.
Also, on Wednesday is our Alumni Banquet. At noon (following the morning Missions session) we will gather in the cafeteria for a time of fun, fellowship, and food. There is a lot to know about our newly reorganized Alumni Association so we are asking you to make this event a priority.
We are working hard to make this a great experience — I promise it will be fun and memorable and hope you will join us.