14 July 2024 | Bracknell, UK [Vanesa Pizzuto]
On a sun-drenched Sunday morning, 14 July, 33 graduands waited pensively to receive their diplomas at Newbold College of Higher Education’s 2024 Awards Ceremony. With family, friends, and the college community gathered in Salisbury Hall, diplomas in various fields of theological and missiological studies were awarded, including Bachelor of Arts in Biblical and Pastoral Studies, Postgraduate Diploma in Theology, Postgraduate Certificate in Mission, Master of Arts in Theology, and Graduate Diploma in Biblical and Pastoral Studies.
The heartfelt ceremony featured beautiful musical renditions, including an acappella version of “Chief of Sinners” by the Legacy Group, with wonderful harmonies and even a beatbox. Among the special guests attending, Councillor Jenny Penfold, Mayor of the Borough of Bracknell Forest expressed her appreciation for the influence that Newbold has in the community and the calibre of its students. “It’s a pleasure to be here for your ceremony… I’ve been aware of the work of Newbold College for many years,” said Penfold. “I have to congratulate both teachers and students on what you have achieved.”
With an impressive career in business management and leadership, keynote speaker Dr Paul Thompson inspired and challenged graduands to believe that 1. God has great plans for them, 2. They can make a real difference in the lives of those around them, 3. Glorify God in everything they do, and 4. Seek the Kingdom of God daily and first. “You should never be too busy to take time for others, to talk with them and look for opportunities to do good,” said Thompson. “Love those who are unlovable and remember that the small things can make a difference. Above all, take every opportunity to show people Christ,” he encouraged. Thompson concluded his address by challenging all to consider what it means to be truly successful. “You may not be rich and famous, but you’ll be rich and famous in the eyes of the Master,” he said.
With the the presentation of awards complete, and all students deservingly congratulated, Andela Bogdanović shared a special message of gratitude on behalf of all the students. “We have some of the most amazing people teaching us here. You have been more than lecturers, you prayed with us, you taught us how to be good people, not just good theologians. Thank you for being our greatest role models,” she said.
At the end of the programme, Daniel Duda, Trans-European Division president, pronounced a deep and meaningful blessing on all the graduands:
“As you leave the halls of Newbold College, not just with degrees, but with hearts and minds enriched by the wisdom and love of God, may you carry forward the lessons learned here, rooted deeply in the teachings of Jesus Christ. As you go forth to serve in diverse fields, let your faith be the cornerstone upon which you build your lives and ministries. May the Holy Spirit guide you in all your endeavours, filling you with compassion, courage, and conviction. May your words and actions reflect the love of Christ, bringing hope and healing to a world in need. May you find strength in moments of doubt, peace in times of turmoil, and joy in the journey that lies ahead. Remember always that you are called to be a light in the darkness, a beacon of grace and truth. As you leave Newbold College, may you walk confidently into the future, knowing that God’s hand is always upon you. May your ministry be fruitful, your impact profound, and your lives a lasting testament to the glory of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.”
[Photos: Vanesa Pizzuto]
