On May 15, 70 graduates walked across the platform of Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church to receive certificates, diplomas, and master’s degrees. The sanctuary was vibrant with the cheers of classmates, faculty, and family members.
Dr. Gina Stewart brought a passionate word addressing the question “What will the righteous do?” Dr. Stewart described that, while papers are turned in and degrees will be conferred, the real work for the graduates is just beginning. “There’s a reason why they call graduations ‘commencements’,” she said. “While you’re finishing your course of study, you’re actually embarking on a new journey and a new chapter. The degree is not just a symbol of what you have achieved but the responsibility you now carry.” She challenged the graduates to engage the question “what will the righteous do?” not as a philosophical exercise, but as an urgent call that needs a practical and loud response in our time. In a time when empathy is condemned as toxic and harshness is confused for strength, the righteous are called to be kingdom representatives. The righteous are called to “reflect the character of God in a culture of compromise.” Certainly that to which Dr. Stewart called graduates, and indeed everyone in attendance, felt like a tall order and heavy task. But she emphasized that we do all this trusting in God’s goodness. “Give thanks that God is a faithful God with a mighty good track record!”
The celebration continued as students were conferred the tokens of their accomplishment. As has been the custom for several years, much of the commencement was spoken in Spanish reflecting that Palmer’s Master of Theological Studies in Latino/a Ministries continues to be one of the seminary’s fastest growing programs. We especially like to thank Adalia Gutiérrez Lee from International Ministries for her role as translator throughout the ceremony.
99 commencements strong in our hundredth year. At a time when many institutions of theological education are closing or merging, it is truly a testament to God’s faithfulness to the Eastern and Palmer Community. Praise Jesus, and here’s to another century of equipping followers of Jesus to bring the Whole Gospel to the Whole World through Whole Persons.