WEST POINT — This year, Point University is planning a change to its last chapel service of the semester.

According to Wye Huxford, Vice President of Spiritual Formation, dean of the chapel and professor of theology and the New Testament, this year the service will be held outdoors at the West Point River Park and include worshiping, singing and speeches from administrators and students.

The event kicks off at 5 p.m. today with a cookout. At 6 p.m. services begin with music provided by graduating senior Re’nold Kent. The sermon will be presented by five students: graduating seniors Jacob Moore, Jalen Gardner and Lauren Kirkland, along with Parker Anderson, a December graduate, and Dalee Parman, a May 2019 graduate.

“They will be doing a tag-team service,” Huxford said. “The theme is ‘Discovering hope by continuing the story.’”

He added that the students had been chosen based on their engagement with the spiritual formation program.

At around 6:40 p.m., an ice cream truck will be onsite to pass out free treats to attendees. The truck is provided by Foundation Christian Church in Newnan.

There will be a variety of games to enjoy after the service as well.

“Normally, this is just a regular chapel service,” Huxford said. “We’re probably starting a new tradition.”

The idea to change the service came about back in October following a homecoming event in the park.

“I thought it was a great spot,” Huxford said, noting that during a planning meeting he suggested the park as a venue. “They loved it.”

In the event of rain, the service will be held in the West Point Gym.

“Excitement has been high. We picked a wonderful spot and it seems silly we don’t use it more,” Huxford said. “It’ll be helpful to celebrate the end of the year, and we’re looking forward to a great evening.”

The service begins at 5 p.m. EDT today at West Point River Park.