The Reverend Douglas H. McMahon, Director of Campus Ministries and Chaplain

Go now, with courage and hope, for the blessing is found in community, in learning and growing, and in seeking and serving. We do not walk alone.

Even as the flames of these candles are extinguished, our commitment to knowledge, understanding, and wisdom and our commitment to one another and our God burn brightly in our hearts, our Eckerd community and wherever we might find ourselves in this world.

We know our promise to be a light in the world is no idle commitment for the there are many who desire to see this flame extinguished. Ignorance, prejudice, violence, hate, greed, apathy and hopelessness are crouching at the door - "all the evils we deplore." 

Yet, evil will not have the last word. We go forth now to grow and change, to be changed and to change the world. We go forth remembering the blessing, seeking the blessing and to be a blessing. Even when the sun sets and the night seems so dark, there is always another day, always a new day of grace and of glory, wisdom and courage. You are the light of the world. Burn brightly. Go in peace. Always walk together. Amen.