Bethany Theological Seminary observes its 104th commencement.

On May 9, Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Ind., will celebrate its 104th commencement. Two observances will mark the occasion. A ceremony for conferring degrees will take place in Bethany's Nicarry Chapel at 10 a.m. Admittance to this ceremony is by ticket only. A worship service, open to the public, will be held at Richmond Church of the Brethren at 2:30 p.m.

Christina Bucher, dean of faculty and Carl W. Zeigler professor of religion at Elizabethtown (Pa.) College, will give an address titled "The Allure of God and the Lure of Love," based on the biblical texts of Song of Songs 2:8-17 and 8:6-7 and 1 John 4:7-21, at the academic ceremony.

Russell Haitch, Bethany’s associate professor of Christian education and director of the Institute for Ministry With Youth and Young Adults, will speak at the afternoon worship service. His message, "Limping and Leaping," will be based on Genesis 32:22-32.

Five students will receive master of divinity degrees: Charles Myron Bell of New Castle, Ind.; Kendra Lynnette Flory of McPherson, Kan.; Holly Sue Hathaway of Connersville, Ind.; Dava Cruise Hensley of Roanoke, Va.; and Sandra K. Jenkins of Centerville, Ohio.

Three students will receive master of arts in theology degrees: Valerie Jean Knickrehm Friedell of Goshen, Ind.; Karen Ann Garrett of Eaton, Ohio; and Haley Marie Goodwin of Carlisle, Pa.

Receiving a certificate of achievement in theological studies is Mary Alice Eller of Richmond, Ind.

Graduates' future endeavors include careers in pastoral and congregational ministry, teaching, and additional graduate study.

-- Marcia Shetler is director of Public Relations at Bethany Theological Seminary.

Source: 5/07/2009 Newsline Extra