May 19, 2013

Dear Students, Colleagues and Friends of the Washington Theological Union,

A clear azure blue sky, soft breeze and the sun’s warmth and energy provided a memorable setting for the Forty Fourth and final graduation ceremony of our beloved Washington Theological Union on Friday, May 3, 2013 at St. Camillus Church, Silver Spring, MD. Fifty three students from the class of 2013 received degrees or certificates unique to their respective disciplines of study. The music provided by the St, Camillus Multicultural Choir under the direction of Ms. Tracy McDonnell, carried the theme of Wisdom for the graduation. The Rev. Andrew D. Ciferni, O.Praem., Ph.D. delivered a moving address to the graduates pointing to the beauty of a starlit Vatican II Council noting its documents and their prophetic and timeless brilliance. It was particularly meaningful for this graduation because it was a reminder of the impetus behind the very opening of the Union in 1968 in which the architectural design of the curriculum under the leadership of the first academic dean, Rev. Michael Scanlon, O.S.A., was guided by the great inspiration of the Second Vatican Council. Stephen R. Sohe, MA, MDIV, offered a student reflection on the experience of studying at the Union and how the sense of community drew him to a greater appreciation of Wisdom through the faculty, his colleagues and through the gift of his Nigerian ancestry. The celebration continued with a magnificent reception in the Camilla Hall of St. Camillus. The St Camillus Community was most hospitable in hosting the event. For all of these good things, we give thanks!

A gallery of images from the graduation is posted below.

As we celebrate the Feast of Pentecost, let us pray, “In the quick rushing wind of the Spirit, may justice prevail. In the cool gentle breeze of the Sprit, may the Mercy of God enfold us, and in the enduring fire of the Spirit’s love for each of us, ever hasten peace in our world. Amen.”

With warm regards,

Anne E. McLaughlin, R.S.M., D.Min.
Chief Academic Officer
mclaughlin@wtu.edu

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Washington Theological Union presented the final conference of the atom + Eve Project: Using Science in Pastoral Ministry series on Saturday, March 16, 2013. Co-sponsored by the John Templeton Foundation, this fourth gathering was entitled, “Spirituality in an Evolutionary World.” It was held at Saint Paul’s College, 3015 Fourth Street, NE, Washington, DC.

Rev. Michael Scanlon and Sr. Ilia Delio, along with Dr. Stephen Barr and Dr. Everett Worthington offered insightful lectures and conversation. For copies of the lectures, videos and more visit the atom plus Eve website.