Community Christian Academy

Most commencement speeches focus on achievement, ambition, and chasing your dreams.

This message challenged graduates with something far more important.

In this address to the CCA Class of 2026, Pastor Smedly Yates called students to reject a self-centered way of living and instead pursue a life marked by the gospel — following the example of the Apostle Paul.

"So, if I could be so bold and to tell you what you must do with your lives, get a little bit of Paul's perspective, self forgetfulness so that you can live out the same purpose that Paul had, to know Jesus Christ and make him known in this world."

This commencement address may have been given to graduates, but its message reaches far beyond a graduation stage. Whether you’re graduating, raising children, leading a family, serving in ministry, or simply trying to live faithfully in today’s world, this is a message worth hearing.

We are grateful to Pastor Yates for investing in our graduates and pointing them toward biblical truth.

Watch the full commencement address below and share it with others.

A Message Every Graduate Needs to Hear | 2026 CCA Graduation Pastor Smedly Yates of Grace Bible Church in Tempe, Arizona deliver...

🎓 Congratulations to the CCA Class of 2026!

Join us in celebrating tomorrow night at 6:00PM for graduation! We are so thankful for these graduates and the time we have had with them at CCA. Please pray for our seniors as they step into a new season of life.

New look. Same mission.

Our new visual identity reflects both the foundation of who we are and the continued pursuit of who we aspire to be: a school grounded in truth, committed to academic excellence, and centered on God’s Word.

The crest-inspired design represents honor, tradition, and trust while maintaining a clean and timeless look for the future of Community Christian Academy.

More to come.