Yesterday, I enjoyed participating in the 48th Commencement of Eckerd College. I was able to congratulate all of the students who received their diplomas including a 90 year old PEL graduate, Ellen Nizzi.
I also was grateful to be able to offer the invocation, which follows:
O God, our Creator and Redeemer,
how do we express the joy in our hearts this day?
Our hearts are full of memories and of hope!
On this new day, we take this moment
to breath
to look up and look around
to give thanks--
for your goodness
your faithfulness
for family and friends
for faculty, staff and others
who have walked with us during these past years.
When we face the challenges of another day,
may the joy of this moment be our strength.
Bless, O Loving God, Eckerd College,
each and every person here, today,
especially the class of 2011,
and all of your children throughout the world.
and all of your children throughout the world.
Amen.
