The East China Theological Seminary held its 2021 graduation ceremony and thanksgiving service on June 24.
One hundred and twenty-nine students graduated from this seminary, with bachelor’s degrees in theology, sacred music and an extension of theology, according to the Shanghai CC&TSPM
In the ceremony presided over by Rev. Xie Bingguo, president of the seminary, a sermon titled "You must make every effort" was delivered by Rev. Geng Weizhong, president of the Shanghai Christian Council (CC).
Rev. Xu Xiaohong, chairman of the National Committee of the Three-Self Patriotic Movement (TSPM), urged students to stick to the direction of the Sinicization of Christianity and the original intention of dedication. He said they might not all meet with prosperity after graduation, as the Bible said, "The crucible for silver, the furnace for God, but the Lord tests the heart." If they did not forsake initial faith and love, they could gain the crown of glory that might never fade away. At last, he requested them to form the good habit of continuous and lifelong learning. They were also told to innovate pastoral methods, to make good use of new technologies, the Internet and new media, and to expand their knowledge, including excellent Chinese traditional culture and classic world culture.
Rev. Xu Yulan, chairman of the Shanghai TSPM, encouraged the students to love both church and country, and persist in studying to properly nourish believers.
Rev. Xie commissioned the students for service with prayer.
At the graduation ceremony, Rev. Xie awarded diplomas to the graduates, who also received Bibles and shawls with the cross in them.
More than 200 people, including pastors and staff workers from Shanghai churches, faculty and students in the seminary, attended the ceremony.
- Translated by Abigail Wu
