Spiritual Emphasis
Chapel
Chapel is a central and purposeful part of student life at First Baptist Academy, designed to strengthen the spiritual growth of our young people. Each week, students gather for a structured time of worship and biblical instruction that is both Christ-centered and Scripture-driven. Chapel services include congregational singing, clear and faithful preaching from the Word of God, and opportunities for thoughtful response.
Our goal is to engage students at their level while maintaining a high view of God and His Word. The preaching of Scripture is foundational, as Romans 10:17 reminds us, “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Messages are carefully prepared to address the spiritual needs of students, encouraging them to develop personal convictions, make wise decisions, and grow in their relationship with the Lord.
Chapel also provides meaningful opportunities for student involvement. Students may participate through many facets of service, helping them develop confidence and a heart for serving Christ. As 1 Timothy 4:12 exhorts, “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers…” Our desire is to see students not only hear the truth, but live it out in their daily lives.
More than a weekly gathering, chapel is an intentional investment in the next generation. Students are encouraged to respond to God’s Word with humility and obedience, remembering James 1:22: “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only.” It is our prayer that chapel will play a significant role in shaping students to know, love, and faithfully serve the Lord both now and in the years to come.
Student Prayer Group
At First Baptist Academy, we desire to see our students develop a genuine and personal walk with the Lord. One of the ways this is encouraged is through our student-led prayer group, which meets each Tuesday and Thursday.
These gatherings provide a meaningful opportunity for students to come together, seek the Lord, and pray for one another, their school, their families, and the needs around them. Led by students, this time fosters spiritual ownership, leadership, and a deeper dependence upon God.
Scripture reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 5:17, “Pray without ceasing,” and in Philippians 4:6, “by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” Through these regular times of prayer, students are learning to make prayer a consistent and vital part of their daily lives.
The student prayer group is a simple yet powerful expression of our desire to cultivate hearts that seek after God. It is our prayer that these moments will encourage spiritual growth, unity, and a lasting commitment to walking with the Lord.
Camp Sparta Youth Retreat
Each year, First Baptist Academy attends Camp Sparta, a youth retreat designed to challenge and encourage students in grades 7–12 in their walk with the Lord. This special time away provides a focused spiritual environment where students can step aside from daily distractions and grow in their relationship with Christ.
Camp Sparta includes dynamic preaching, Christ-centered singing, outdoor activities, and a meaningful testimony bonfire. Each element is intentionally planned to engage students, strengthen their faith, and encourage personal decisions for the Lord. The preaching is grounded in Scripture, as Romans 10:17 reminds us, “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”
In addition to the spiritual emphasis, students enjoy a variety of outdoor games and team activities that promote fellowship, unity, and lasting friendships. One of the highlights of the retreat is the testimony bonfire, where students have the opportunity to share how God is working in their lives and be encouraged by others.
Camp Sparta is more than just a retreat, it is an investment in the next generation. Our prayer is that each student returns with a renewed passion for Christ, strengthened convictions, and a desire to live for Him daily.
“Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” James 4:8
