“On 30 November 2024, 140 students graduated from the GO SEC School of Evangelism Mission & Leadership at Stanborough Park Secondary School. This largest-ever cohort celebrated nine months of training with worship, reflections, and a graduation ceremony, inspiring graduates to serve in the church’s mission.”
On Saturday, 30 November 2024, an exceptionally special day unfolded in the life of the South England Conference. One hundred and forty students from the GO SEC School of Evangelism Mission & Leadership graduated during a memorable all-day event held at Stanborough Park Secondary School in Watford. This special occasion brought together graduates, their families, friends, and supporters in a spirit of joy and thanksgiving. It was a time to celebrate the students’ achievements and dedication to God’s service after nine months of hard work, effort, and assignments.
The day was dedicated to honouring God and filled with worship. Members of the school, who had primarily been meeting on Zoom, came together in happy fellowship and worship for the first time. Despite the challenges of the COVID years, the school has continued equipping and empowering members of the SEC to participate in the church’s mission. This year marked the largest cohort and the most courses ever offered.
The day began with a series of reflections led by tutors at the school. South England Conference (SEC) Personal Ministries Director and Creative Evangelism Tutor, Pastor Royston Smith, commenced the event by facilitating an open discussion forum reflecting on the mission, based on the biblical account of the Woman at the Well in John 4. Attendees shared their thoughts on the woman and Jesus’ approach to her before reflecting on how the lessons from Jesus’ mission could be applied to their own lives.
Creative Writing for Evangelism Tutor, Divina Reynolds, presented a reflection on restoration, reminding attendees of God’s special call and purpose for their lives. She emphasised the importance of reflecting God’s image as they prepare for the Second Coming and the restoration of all things. Lay Preaching Tutor, Pastor Trevor Thomas, engaged attendees in a humorous and memorable reenactment of the story of Queen Esther, Mordecai, and Haman, highlighting the theme of redemption.
Bible Work Tutor, Helen De Couteau-Grant, reflected on the call to action using Haggai 1:1-15, reminding attendees of their mission to GO throughout the SEC and become fishers of men and women. She encouraged attendees to put their training into practice, becoming disciple-makers and reaching out to those in need. “Jesus trained 12 disciples, and they turned the world upside down,” she reminded them. “Now that more than 140 of you have been trained to share the Gospel, will you turn the SEC areas upside down, or will you go back to business as usual? If you’re not fishing for men, then whom are you following?”
After a sumptuous lunch, the Graduation Ceremony began in the afternoon. Students showcased their talents through creative writing, song, poetry, and instrumental performances. Special renditions by Gabriella Pedditzi and Wilson Herman lifted hearts heavenward, while poet Mariska Edwards highlighted the importance of kindness, and Aina Rakotonirina’s solo was truly inspirational.
SEC President, Pastor Kirk Thomas, delivered an inspiring address, emphasising unity, peace, and reconciliation through Christ. Drawing from Ephesians 2:14 and Colossians 1:20, Pastor Thomas—who had founded the school 12 years earlier—described how Jesus brought peace and unity through the Cross. He encouraged attendees to take action when they encounter situations that are not as they should be, becoming reconcilers and seekers of opportunities to introduce others to Jesus Christ.
The ceremony celebrated the students’ achievements and recognised God as the ultimate source of inspiration. Graduates expressed gratitude for their journey and the support received from tutors and peers. They looked forward to new opportunities to serve and share their faith.
The graduation of the 17 cohorts was a blessing, showcasing the collective achievements and personal stories of transformed lives. Courses completed included Counselling, Adventist-Muslim Relations, Lay Bible Work, Lay Preaching, Advanced Lay Preaching, Pastoral Care, Hospital Chaplaincy, Emotional Health, Creative Writing for Evangelism, Creative Evangelism, Radio Evangelism, Community Pathfindering, and Basic Bookkeeping. The stories of lives touched and ministries encouraged were inspiring, with the promise of many more being blessed as a result.
Dr Steve Thomas charged the new graduates to be active disciple-makers, continuing to serve in the church’s mission.
Special commendations were extended to the tutors, Conference administrators, and Sister Mavis Bramble for their invaluable support. Looking ahead to the 2025 school year, everyone is eager to see how the journey continues.