It’s important to have a purpose in life, U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson told a group of graduates Sunday morning during a baccalaureate service at King Solomon Baptist Church.

&#8220The purpose of this baccalaureate service is to give thanks to everyone who helped them get where they are – especially the Lord,” said Thompson, D-Bolton. &#8220But they have to understand that the road doesn’t stop here. They have to have a vision after graduation. Without a vision, people perish.”

The service at the church at 1401 Farmer St. was open to all area graduates; 17 attended.

&#8220We wanted to pull the community together to recognize these graduates in a spiritual setting,” said Reginald Bernard, pastor of King Solomon. &#8220We’re giving them spiritual food for thought.”

Thompson, a former Hinds County supervisor who is serving his seventh term in the U.S. House and is seeking re-election this year and will be on a June 6 Democratic Primary ballot, was invited to speak at the service in September.

Thompson’s speech was titled &#8220Godly Wisdom.”

&#8220It’s time for them to make adult decisions,” he said. &#8220This is their transition to adulthood.”

Bernard agreed.

&#8220That is exactly what they needed to hear,” said Bernard.

&#8220It was good advice,” said Willie H. Brown Jr., a Vicksburg High School senior who will graduate Thursday. &#8220Mr. Thompson’s speech was informative and very inspiring.”

Thompson will face state Rep. Chuck Espy of Clarksdale in the primary. The winner will face Republican Mayor Yvonne R. Brown of Tchula in the general election Nov. 7.

Baccalaureate services at King Solomon were revived in 2005 after a 10-year hiatus. Last year’s speaker was former Vicksburg Mayor Robert Walker.

&#8220I want them to enjoy this day because it’s the beginning of the rest of their lives,” Thompson said.

He will speak at a political forum May 30 at 7 p.m. at Jackson Street Community Center.