September 17, 1998 - A Service of Matriculation

On September 17, 1998, Boston University School of Theology held a Service of Matriculation at Marsh Chapel to officially welcome the incoming class.  After the processional hymn, "Christ is the World's Light," the Reverend Imani-Sheila Newsome (Assistant Dean for Student Affairs) offered the call to worship and opening prayer, and Audrey Harris, president of the Boston University Theological Students' Association (BUTSA), greeted the congregation.  At this time, the Director of Admissions and the various administrators of degree programs stepped forward to present the new students.  The 97 new students matriculated into eight areas:  38 entered the Master of Divinity program; nine entered the Master of Theological Studies program; two entered the Master of Sacred Music program; 16 entered the Master of Sacred Theology program; two entered the Doctor of Ministry program, and 11 entered the Doctor of Theology program.  Four students matriculated as non-degree students, and 15 students matriculated into the Division of Religious and Theological Studies of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. 

Following the presentation of the incoming class, Dr. John Berthrong, Associate Dean of the School of Theology, presented the new staff and faculty.  Dean Robert C. Neville presented preaching awards, and the Seminary Singers, under the direction of Dr. Mildred Beane, sang the anthem "I will Arise" by Parker/Shaw.  The Gospel reading, Luke 16:1-13, was read by Dr. Jensine Andresen. 

Following the Gospel reading, Dean Robert C. Neville gave the sermon "Jesus on the Bear Market, or, Mammon and the Fall-back Position."  Click here for a transcript of that sermon. 

The service of matriculation ended with Prayers for the Church, World, and University, offered by the Reverend Dr. Bryan Stone.  The Lord's Prayer was offered by all, and the dedicatory hymn "Take my Life, and Let it Be" was sung.  Dr. David Hempton offered the benediction and dismissed the congregation.