Richmond, Indiana--On Saturday, May 9, Bethany Theological Seminary celebrated its one hundred fourth commencement. Two observances marked the occasion. A ceremony for conferring degrees took place in Bethany's Nicarry Chapel, and a worship service was held at the Richmond Church of the Brethren.

President Ruthann Knechel Johansen
congratulates graduate Charles Bell

Christina Bucher, dean of faculty and Carl W. Zeigler professor of religion at Elizabethtown College, Elizabethtown, Pa., gave an address titled "The Allure of God and the Lure of Love," based on the biblical texts of Song of Songs 2:8-17 and 8:6-7 and 1 John 4:7-21, at the academic ceremony. Russell Haitch, associate professor of Christian education and director of the Institute for Ministry With Youth and Young Adults, spoke at the afternoon worship service. His message "Limping and Leaping" was based on a Genesis 32:22-32 scripture text.

Five students received master of divinity degrees, three students received master of arts degrees, and one student received a certificate of achievement in theological studies.

Bethany Board chair Ted Flory
performs the hooding ceremony for graduate Haley Goodwin

Those who received degrees are:

Master of Divinity

Charles Myron Bell, New Castle, Indiana

Kendra Lynnette Flory, McPherson, Kansas

Holly Sue Hathaway, Connersville, Indiana

Dava Cruise Hensley, Roanoke, Virginia

Sandra K. Jenkins, Centerville, Ohio

Master of Arts

Valerie Jean Knickrehm Friedell,

Goshen, Indiana

Karen Ann Garrett, Eaton, Ohio

Haley Marie Goodwin, Carlisle, Pennsylvania

Certificate of Achievement in Theological Studies

Mary Alice Eller, Richmond, Indiana

Graduates' future endeavors include careers in pastoral and congregational ministry, teaching, and additional graduate study.