Craig Koester, professor of New Testament, gave the commencement address, encouraging the students to be Christ’s witnesses in their new vocations. In his address, Koester noted the uncertainties the students face as they prepare for their new life of ministry.
“So what makes the uncertain path so compelling?” Koester asked. “In the end it comes down to this, that wherever you have been, wherever you are, and wherever you go, there is a need for Christian witness. Christ is not behind you, but ahead of you, calling you to bear witness wherever you are, from here to the end of the planet.”
Koester told the graduates Christ has not given them answers, but rather a vocation. He has not given them data, but a calling. Through their calling, Christ has chosen them to accomplish His purposes through the witness they bear.
A Holy Communion service was held the evening before commencement. As the offering donation, the graduate candidates and their families gave $500 toward student scholarship funds.
Read Dr. Craig Koester’s commencement address at www.luthersem.edu/commencement/commencement_2006_sermon.asp?m=619