Every seat in the church sanctuary was filled yesterday for the 2015 Annual Convocation, which launches the academic year at Loma Linda University. New and returning students enjoyed the panoply of regalia and the expressions of spiritual emphasis that set the tone for the hour-long service.
Following the procession of more than 140 faculty and administrators to the platform and wings, Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, spoke on “Planned Spirituality?” It was a message which raised the question of how to instill spiritual growth in a student body made up of many faith traditions.
“The important thing to know is that we recognize every student, regardless of background, as equal in the sight of God,” said Hart, who then focused on the idea of developing a culture of service, including local and worldwide engagement in providing healing for those in need.
He cited many graduates of Loma Linda University who are current missionaries in nations across Central America, Africa and Asia, who are living out a culture of service in their careers. “In doing so”, he added, “they would say they have found great satisfaction in their lives and careers by serving the needs of others.”
Faculty, staff, and student representatives then read statements of commitment for the coming school year, and Kerry Heinrich, CEO of the Loma Linda University Medical Center, read a blessing for the student body.
Provost Ronald Carter, PhD, told students the next time they would see their professors in academic regalia would be at graduation!