On July 3, the 2020 graduation ceremony of Nanjing Union Theological Seminary was held in the college auditorium.
According to CCC&TSPM, 129 students graduated, including 106 undergraduates (102 who have received a bachelor's degree in theology), and 23 graduates who have received a diploma or a master's degree in theology.
During the coronavirus pandemic, the college requires all attendees to take temperature, wear masks, and follow the staff’s instructions on where to sit in the auditorium through designated passageways.
Pastor Chen Bin, the deputy president of the national seminary, presided over the ceremony and Pastor Lin Manhong, the academic dean, led in prayer.
The ceremony began with with all students rising and singing the national anthem. Pastor Chen Yilu, the executive vice-president, shared a sermon entitled "Moving with Hope", based on Luke 24:13-35. In particular, he pointed out, "The two disciples of Emmaus were discouraged because they did not see the resurrected Lord, and they felt helpless. However, the resurrected Lord Jesus personally accompanied them so their hearts were not troubled as before.” Chen exhorted the students that every disciple needs the Lord’s companionship on the journey and calling to service. As a pastor, companionship is an indispensable and important part of learning, life and service. Pastors experienced the company of their parents, teachers, brothers and sisters. In the future, as pastors we must learn to accompany everyone around us, as light and salt, and glorify God and bring benefit to others.
Finally, President Gao Feng commissioned the students for service and gave the benediction.
- Translated by Abigail Wu
