Convocation 2019

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus.

Hebrews 12:1-2

With a powerful reading of this verse, in addition to the Convocation speakers who exhorted the students of SBS, the 2019-2020 school year officially began. In his speech, Head of School Dr. Davis recounted how he arrived on the theme of this year: #SBSVision. It was the Class of 2020, who at commencement last year unveiled their senior banner that read, “Now you are seeing 20/20.” With a call to consider the words of Paul in Hebrews, especially fixing our eyes on Jesus, Dr. Davis set a significant tone for the school year.

In addition, an inspirational address was given by Head Prefect, Anna Beth Swain ‘20. Swain spoke with a clear heart and vision for the school year – BE PRESENT and BE BOLD. Reflecting on her time at SBS and encouraging parents, faculty and staff to do the same, Swain challenged students to consider what it means to be present.

“This year, being present means listening right here, as you walk the halls of Second Baptist School. In the brick-paved pathways of the lower school, in the carpeted corridors of middle school and in the six storied hallways of the upper school, when you put your foot down, with every step you take, walk with purpose. Make being present your purpose.”

Swain also called students to be bold by pushing back the horizons of their hopes.

“I love that…pushing back the horizons of your hopes. Seeing the landscape of your goals right in front of us, picturing that shore and horizon mapped in your mental canvas, and having the courage to reach into your picture and push back the horizon-just stretch back its coordinates, having the guts to take your hand, nudge back that skyline of possibility and dream big. Be bold.”

With the powerful words of the speeches from Convocation still echoing through their minds, students, faculty and staff set about the first day of school with the challenge laid before them to fix their eyes on Jesus, be present and be bold. What a great start to the 2019-2020 school year!