“Faith That Leaves a Legacy: Passing The Paton” Graduation Sunday - Julie Hamilton and the Next Gen Teams
Graduation Sunday at New Hope is always something special—and this year is no exception. We celebrate not just academic accomplishments, but the faith journeys of our students and the spiritual impact of their families, mentors, and the church community that have walked with them every step of the way.
High school senior Brindley Rhodes kicked off our message by sharing her testimony of transformation, how her individual faith matured into shared community after years of praying for meaningful connections. She reminded us that we are not just small groups scattered through a congregation—we are one unified body in Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12–20). Her challenge was simple: take time to truly connect with one another and recognize the legacy we are all helping build, together.
Then we heard a video message from college graduate Rosie Harrison. Rosie offered powerful insights on what her generation longs to see in the church—genuine, lived-out faith. She emphasized that her peers are not interested in tradition for tradition’s sake, but in churches that prioritize justice, compassion, humility, and mercy—the kind of radical love Jesus taught and lived. She called on the church to be bold, to stand with the vulnerable, and to live out Micah 6:8 in both word and action.
After the students spoke, graduates symbolically passed red batons to the next generation—an act of spiritual commissioning. They then handed out roses to someone in their “village,” honoring those who shaped their faith. The moment was emotional and unforgettable.
Pastor Vicki Harrison concluded with a heartfelt charge to the graduates, encouraging them to live lives that truly matter by embracing:
Passion: Find joy in your journey and live fully.
Humility: Serve others with the heart of Jesus.
Purpose: Let your life reflect the light of Christ and draw others to God.
She reminded us all that the greatest legacy we can leave is not material—but spiritual. Our job is to love deeply, disciple well, and trust that God is working through us in every season.
As the baton is passed, the mission continues. To our graduates: remember who and Whose you are. You will always have a home at New Hope.
Reflection & Discussion Questions
What does it mean to you to “live a life that matters”?
In what ways can you live with passion, humility, and purpose this week?
How are you helping pass the baton to the next generation?
Who has been part of your faith journey—and who are you helping shape spiritually today?
Listen to and subscribe to the audio-only podcast with your favorite podcasting app below.
More Sermons in this Series
Other Sermons from Pastor Vicki
How can the church leave a lasting spiritual legacy for the next generation? Listen to Pastor Vicki Harrison and a panel of young parents share insights on parenting, discipleship, and welcoming Millennials back into the fold.