ABOUT THIS SERVICE
The word Baccalaureate refers not only to the degree that will be conferred tomorrow upon the Class of 2022 but also to an occasion of reflective and prayerful remembrance steeped in gratitude for the opportunity to learn and the inspiration to serve. This is also a celebration of the academic accomplishments that we will honor at Commencement exercises tomorrow and for the lessons learned and the wisdom acquired during these college years.
During this service, you will hear readings from the world’s great religious traditions. This year’s readings are reflections on the theme of tenderness, which is inspired by the book The Whole Language: The Power of Extravagant Tenderness (2021), written by our Baccalaureate speaker, Father Gregory Boyle, S.J. As the chaplains and the students discussed Father Boyle’s book and these sacred text readings, we were enriched by the opportunity to explore with one another a common theme from different religious traditions. We dare to slow down or even stop for a moment on the eve of one of the most important events of your lives. Please join us in collectively reflecting on—and celebrating—not just reaching this destination but also the beginning of new journeys.
PROGRAM
Musical Performance: Devesh Chandra, Artist Associate in Tabla; Veena Chandra, Artist Associate in Sitar
Invocation: The Rev. Dr. Valerie Bailey Fischer, Chaplain to the College and Protestant Chaplain
Readings & Reflections
Combined Choir: “The Parting Glass,” by The Wailin’ Jennys
Readings & Reflections
Gospel Choir: “Mmuso (Kingdom)” by We Will Worship
Address: Fr. Gregory Boyle, S.J. with Introduction by Bridget Power, Catholic Chaplain
Jazz Ensemble
Charge to the Class of 2022: Maud S. Mandel, President and Professor of History
Prayers: Bridget Power, Catholic Chaplain; Rabbi Seth Wax, Jewish Chaplain; Aseel Abulhab ’15, Muslim Program Coordinator; The Rev. Dr. Valerie Bailey Fischer
Zambezi Ensemble
Benediction: The Rev. Dr. Valerie Bailey Fischer
