It was earlier this winter that I finished the requirements for the Master of Divinity degree at Eden Theological Seminary in St. Louis. Commencement, however, is tonight. This makes it official. I’ve graduated (possibly making my mother a believer in miracles). Liz and I aren’t able to make it back to St. Louis for the big event but my deep love and appreciation goes out to my family and friends for all their support over the last three years. Liz should get some sort of award! Once again I’d like to thank the faculty, staff and contributors at Eden for their service to the church and for all they did for me (which is a lot). Finally, a special thanks to the people of Portland’s First United Methodist Church, Portland’s First Congregational United Church of Christ, St. John United Church of Christ of Manchester, MO, Grace United Methodist Church of St. Louis and the Central Pacific Conference of the United Church of Christ for their prayers and gifts. You can make a gift and support quality theological education by clicking here. (Photo: while in S. Carolina this past week my Uncle Rocky and Aunt Ruth held a surprise graduation dinner.  It was very touching.  Frances and Katherine enjoyed the cake!)