After the Band played Pomp and Circumstance, The Invocation was given by The Rev. Charles L. Howard, University Chaplain
The Invocation
A new light has been enkindled,
and it now takes its place beside three other distinguished classes to shine brightly upon our campus.
Indeed may the brilliance of this Class of 2016 illumine not only Penn, but our entire world.
May they be proud to wear the Red and Blue,
yet humbled by the great privilege and opportunity afforded them in studying here.
May they be dedicated and diligent in their academic pursuits, yet may they always know that their self worth lies not within their GPA, the number of classes they are enrolled in, or in perceptions of busyness.
May they learn more of themselves, their passions and vocational callings, yet may they know that their resumes and leadership titles are not their identities. That they are loved and cherished no matter what their business card or email signature reads.
May they forge bonds of friendship that will last a lifetime, live adventures that will endure in stories and warm memories, laugh deep belly laughs, be moved to tears, cheer until they lose their voices, dance, sing, play, and be free to be their true selves.
May they shine over the course of their Penn season, from now up to and beyond that glorious day in 2016 when they will throw their Mortarboards up towards the sun at graduation, and take their light out into the world.
Amen. |
