CBCE's outgoing Executive Director Todd Slechta preached at Saturday's commencement before CBC Foundation President Neil Josephson handed out diplomas. Slechta will fill the same responsibilities at CBC's Canada campus in Strathmore, Alberta, in the fall while Bob Auger from CBCE's staff will become executive director at the La Merced campus.

"It was a wonderful weekend giving due glory to God for all He has done in the lives of this year's class," Slechta said. "With over 150 family and friends making the trip to Ecuador it was also a unique 'window' through which loved ones could catch a glimpse of what their kids had experienced during their past year."

Graduation ceremonies were only part of a lively weekend at CBCE. On Friday night, Dove Award winner Jon Buller performed at a Friday night banquet along with Robert Mitchell. A Saturday morning student chapel worship service designed by the students and a Sunday night Ministry Arts concert featured many elements, including puppetry, a DVD presentation documenting CBCE's year of activities and special music and drama.

On Sunday afternoon, Mary Miller, vice president for administration of the Evangelical Covenant Church, preached at baccalaureate. Parents also toured the new campus in La Merced (CBCE's permanent 7.5-acre site that will be used in the fall) and enjoyed a performance by an indigenous dance troop.

Slechta reported on the Ecuador campus projects in a recent email to supporters, stating that the payment of a bridge loan on May 1 helped secure the new permanent site and greatly defray future costs. He is hopeful that the estimated $1 million needed to purchase and renovate the property can be raised quickly and is excited about the fact that the new campus can service 60 students.

"God has been and is at work creating a holy people for Himself and we are privileged to have people such as you praying, supporting and encouraging us as we seek to equip men and women to live as disciples of Jesus Christ," Slechta said in his most recent email update. "Together we are shaping the future leadership of the emerging church."