A MORAVIAN EDUCATION
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Recognizing of the 2020 Graduates of Moravian Theological Seminary
ife as we knew it stopped very abruptly in March 2020. But what did not get derailed was the determination and forward motion of the seniors and faculty at Moravian Seminary. In response to the pandemic, all of our classes went online; counseling and church internships met virtually; masters’ theses were defended on Zoom; and 25 seniors rose to the occasion and completed degrees and certificates. This annual article typically recounts our commencement ceremony with its inspiring speeches, honorary awards and the uplifting emotion of the day. Instead, the conclusion of Moravian Seminary’s 213th year was punctuated with congratulatory videos, Facebook posts honoring each graduate, and the mailing of diplomas and graduate awards. Our seniors requested that we postpone their commencement ceremony until we could
Issue 5 • 2020
gather as a community in person. We remain hopeful and continue to plan to honor our 2020 graduates in person in May 2021, in tandem with our 2021 graduates. Though disappointing to have not held a commencement ceremony, we are pleased to highlight the Moravians who completed their degrees and certificates during the unforgettable year of 2020, and share the positions they have accepted and their unfolding plans. Linda Wisser, from the Emmaus Moravian congregation and former pastoral assistant there, earned the Master of Divinity degree and was installed as pastor of East Hills Moravian Church in Bethlehem in September. Linda was the recipient of the Moses Homiletics Prize which is granted to the member of the graduating class who has excelled in preaching and practical pulpit work. (Continued on next page)
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