Dear Wartburg Theological Seminary Community,
With the Class of 2022 Baccalaureate and Commencement Services behind us, the 2021-2022 Academic Year is officially concluded. It was a glorious day—even the weather cooperated—and it was a great joy to experience the chapel (and the refectory!) full as we rejoiced together, giving thanks to God for the certificate and degree recipients who were being blessed and sent out for service to the church and the world.
There is no way to list by name every individual who worked so hard and with such dedication to make both the events on Sunday and banquet on Saturday evening so very special. Like all of the best Wartburg Seminary events, it was truly a communal effort, and my heart is full of gratitude for the whole community, who showed up with such affection and warmth for our visitors and graduates alike.
Now, as we look to the future and all that is to come, we know that there are many changes and transitions ahead—in each of our individual lives, as well as in the lives of all of us who work and study here at the Castle, particularly as we prepare for the renovation to Fritschel Hall. There are moves, weddings, ordinations, travel, CPE, internships and jobs starting, and a host of other new beginnings for all of us.
In light of these changes, I encourage us to take to heart the words we heard so often these past few days, the words of Isaiah that were chosen for the 2022 Class Verse:
“I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” Isaiah 43:19
For all of us, I pray that we go forth in these next few months with hearts and eyes open to God’s wondrous, creative work springing up all around us, and that we accept the invitation of the Holy Spirit to perceive this work and enter into it joyfully, equipped with the gifts we have been given to glorify God and serve the neighbor and stranger.
May you who are glad receive inspiration and passion.
May you who are weary receive rest and restoration.
May you who are anxious receive peace and consolation.
May you who are hopeful receive support and encouragement.
And may all of us find our strength and joy renewed in Jesus Christ, through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Blessings to each one of you in the months to come.
Rev. Kristin Largen, Ph.D.