Since late March, we have been putting a lot of miles on the road and staying very busy. First we attended the graduation of my youngest daughter in Florida. Then birthdays (his and mine) were celebrated in May. Around mid-May we attended the graduation of my husband’s oldest daughter from Virginia Theological Seminary. What an exciting event! We were blessed to attend a service the evening prior to graduation with a BBQ reception following. The graduation ceremony the following day was so special. Not only could you see the excitement on each seminarian’s face as they processed in, you could actually feel the special bond and love they have for each other.
Reb profile.
The commencement address, which was streamed live, was given by the Rt. Rev. Michael Curry, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina. Bishop Curry developed his address around a quote by the late George Bernard Shaw who said Some men see things as they are, and ask why? I dream things that never were and ask why not? It was a powerful message and one that I have listened to frequently. (click here if you would like to listen this address. He begins speaking at around 30:50 into the ceremony. There is also a written version of his address). Bishop Curry closed his message by saying:
My brothers and sisters, we who follow Jesus believe that God has something better in store for this world. We've seen it in Jesus. We've heard it in the Gospel. And it is our job to help this world find out what that is, and then live. Graduates of Virginia Theological Seminary, we need you to go into the world in the Name of Jesus to help us find out what that is, and live. We need you to go into the world and proclaim the good news of Jesus to the whole creation. Go, make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and teaching them to observe all that Jesus has taught us.11 Go, help us to become people of love. Go, help us to become people of compassion. Go, help us to become people of justice. Go, and help us to become more than merely the human race. Help us to become the human family of God. Some folk see things as they are and ask, “Why?” We who follow Jesus dream
things that never were and ask, “Why not?”
Thank you Bishop Curry for his powerful message.
This photo is courtesy of Virginia Theological Seminary
Reb was one of the two recipients of the Harris Award, given each year to candidates for Holy Orders who have demonstrated academic excellence and leadership ability. All of her family and friends, especially her sweet husband, Josh, are so proud of her.
Here are a few snapshots from the day:
We ended the day with a festive dinner at the Chart House on the Potomac River.
The day after graduation a few family members and some friends headed back home, but we were able to extend our stay for a few days. What did we do? Well, just read my next post to find out. But here is a little clue……
No comments:
Post a Comment