"A Living, Breathing Tradition"
13 May 2008 A Living, Breathing Tradition
Born from an ancient ritual dating back to 8th century England and modeled after an Oxford University ceremony honoring graduates, the annual HWS Baccalaureate service will begin at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, May 17, in Trinity Church at 520 S. Main St. In this secular age, Baccalaureate may seem like an ancient relic, sort of like the mummy in the basement of the library, says Colleges Chaplain Lesley Adams of the 180 year custom on the Geneva campus. But our Baccalaureate service is a living, breathing tradition. Like all rituals, Baccalaureate helps us to navigate the transitions that college graduation brings about, Adams continues. The one-hour service offers us all a chance to slow down, to breathe deeply and to process these changes at a spiritual level. During this years ceremony, The Rt. Rev. Jack M. McKelvey, retiring bishop of Rochester and member of the Colleges Board of Trustees, will offer the annual Baccalaureate address, Some Thoughts and Behaviors to Covet. Seniors Musawar Ahmad, Felipe Estefan, Evan Brown and Tonnica Thomas will offer prayers and readings, as will Adams, President Mark D. Gearan, Dean Debra DeMeis P09, Dean Eugen Baer, Provost Teresa Amott and Hillel Director Lorinda Weinstock. This years event will also feature musical selections from the Colleges Chorale, performing several Spanish anthems, and Instructor of Music Jim Trowbridges brass quintet, MidLakes Brass. Faculty and staff who have academic regalia are invited to join in the procession, which forms at 2:15 p.m. in the sacristy hall. All others are invited to sit in the congregation, though seating is limited to 500 guests. Following the ceremony, there will be a reception for parents and graduates in the Trinity Church Parish Hall. All are welcome to attend.