The General Theological Seminary Commencement is upon us. Last night we had the 201st Baccalaureate Evensong with the Blessing of the Rings and Crosses. It was a breathtaking service, with a stunning setting for the Magnificat composed by Buck McDaniel for this occasion. Afterwards, we went to dinner in the Hoffman Refectory.

Today we gather at 11am for the Commencement. There are some modest changes: students are not required to kneel before the President and the Latin is both read in Latin and then translated. But the thrust and the shape of the service remains the same.

It is a fabulous group of graduates. They have been through much; but their sense of self and their affection for each other is delightful. Congratulations class of 2023.