The Reverend Douglas McMahon, Director of Campus Ministries and Chaplain

You call us together, O God, to be a community of learning that changes lives, transforms neighborhoods and responds to the new challenges of living on this planet. Give us courage and strength to seek the common good, not only of those close to us, but the common good of all people and all of creation.

We ask your blessing especially upon all new students, faculty and staff. We celebrate this new year and especially give thanks for the class of 2012 who will complete their work here during this academic year. Today we also honor excellence recognizing the accomplishments of our colleagues. Inspire us all to be worthy of our calling.

May you, O God, take delight in this gathering as we lift up to you our music, our voices and our hearts remembering those who have nurtured our lives and those who have helped to build this community of learning that is Eckerd College. Thanks be to you, O God!

Amen.