On Sunday evening, June 14, a Baccalaureate service was held to honor the 2026 graduates from our Portland congregation. The service started with a slideshow of photos of the graduates, followed by the youth choir singing "Blessed Be Your Name." Then Erik Calhoun welcomed everyone and read from Proverbs 3:1-12 before an opening prayer from Samuel Oni.

The evening featured several musical performances by graduates. The orchestra played "Leaning On the Everlasting Arms," directed by Josh Friesen. Chandler Mom played a piano solo, and Graham and Erik Calhoun performed a trumpet and bassoon duet. Marcus Luka also performed a vocal solo, "Non Piu Andrai" from Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro.

Throughout the service, there were testimonies from several of the young people, who told of how God had helped them in their lives and education. All shared an appreciation for the foundation they were given in their homes and church as they matured. Gracie Qualls told of times when the Lord provided advisors and teachers who supported her. Elijah Baros said that he was thankful for the firm foundation his godly parents provided, and described how God led his path, even though at times things didn’t seem to be going as planned. Marie Jaiyeola testified about how the Lord opened the door to receiving funding for her master’s program in a way that was unexpected.

Sola Adesope congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to anchor their lives in Proverbs 3:5-6 by trusting God completely and allowing Him to direct their paths. He also shared three specific lessons from Proverbs. First, based on Proverbs 16:8, he urged them never to sacrifice their core values for a temporary advantage, noting that true prosperity is found only in what God provides. Second, drawing from Proverbs 27:17, he advised them to guard their relationships by surrounding themselves with faithful friends who foster spiritual success. Third, referencing Proverbs 9:9, he reminded them to remain teachable, since the moment a person stops learning is the moment he or she stops growing. Ultimately, a person's greatest achievement will always be what God accomplishes through them for the benefit of others.

Brother Erik then presented the Class of 2026, which included eleven high school graduates and eight college graduates. A reception followed in the Fellowship Lodge, where banana splits were enjoyed by all. Congratulations to all of our 2026 graduates!