LSTC Graduation Program 2025

God Will Dwell With Them (Revelation 21:1-6)

+ COMMENCEMENT + 165th Academic Year of the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago

Baccalaureate Service Augustana Lutheran Church Saturday, May 17, 2025 + 4:00 p.m.

Commencement St. Paul and the Redeemer Episcopal Church Sunday, May 18, 2025 + 2:30 p.m.

Artwork by Ann Gerondelis

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+ BACCALAUREATE SERVICE + The Rev. Dr. Brooke Petersen, preaching Lyndsay Monsen, assisting

Items marked with an asterisk (*) indicate that the assembly is invited to assume a posture of reverence, which might include standing or sitting, hands raised or at rest, or other postures. Text that is bold marks the assembly’s responses.

GATHERING The Holy Spirit calls us together as the people of God.

*GATHERING SONG

Christ Is Living (ACS 934)

Text: Nicolás Martinez, 1917-1972; tr. Martin A. Seltz, b. 1951. Music: CENTRAL, Pablo D. Sosa, 1933-2020, arr. Robert Buckley Farlee, b. 1950. Spanish text ©1962 Blanca Staude de Martinez. Tune ©1962 GIA Publications, Inc. giamusic.com. All rights reserved. English tect and arr. ©1999 Augaburg Fortress. Duplication in any form prohibited without securing permission from copyright administrator or reporting usage under valid license.

*THANKSGIVING FOR BAPTISM The assembly stands. All may make the sign of the cross, the sign that is marked at baptism, as the presiding minister begins.

...

Your steadfast love fills the earth.

Your steadfast love fills the earth.

The service continues with gathering song. As a reminder of the gift of baptism, the assembly may be sprinkled with water during the singing.

*GREETING During this time, the presiding minister and the assembly greet each other.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

And also with you.

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*SONG OF PRAISE

Caminemos con Jesus (ACS 1061)

WORD God speaks to us in scripture reading, preaching, and song.

FIRST READING: Acts 11:1-19

Veronica Mwakasungura, lector

Peter defends his decision to preach to the Gentiles by sharing a vision from God declaring all people and creation clean, leading him to welcome them into the faith. Witnessing the Holy Spirit at work among the Gentiles, the believers praised God for granting repentance and life to all.

Now the apostles and the believers who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also accepted the word of God. 2So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticized him, 3saying, “Why did you go to uncircumcised men and eat with them?” 4Then Peter began to explain it to them, step by step, saying, 5“I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance, I saw a vision. There was something like a large sheet coming down from heaven, being lowered by its four corners; and it came close to me. 6As I looked at it closely, I saw four-footed animals, beasts of prey, reptiles, and birds of the air. 7I also heard a voice saying to me, ‘Get up, Peter; kill and eat.’ 8But I replied, ‘By no means, Lord; for nothing profane or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’ 9But a second time the voice answered from heaven, ‘What God has made clean, you must not call profane.’ 10This happened three times; then everything was pulled up again to heaven. 11At that very moment three men, sent to me from Caesarea, arrived at the house where we were. 12The Spirit told me to go with them and not to make a distinction between them and us. These six brothers also accompanied me, and we entered the man’s house. 13He told us how he had seen the angel standing in his house and saying, ‘Send to Joppa and bring Simon, who is called Peter; 14he will give you a message by which you and your entire household will be saved.’ 15And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them just as it had upon us at the beginning. 16And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17If then God gave them the same gift that God gave us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could hinder God?” 18When they heard this, they were silenced. And they praised God, saying, “Then God has given even to the Gentiles the repentance that leads to life.”

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Text: Tony Alonso, b. 1980. Music: CAMINEMOS CON JESÚS, Tony Alonso. Text and music ©2020 GIA Publications, Inc., giamusic.com. All rights reserved. Duplication in any form prohibited without securing permission from copyright administrator or reporting usage under valid license.

*PRAYER OF THE DAY Response after the prayer: Amen.

Word of God, word of life.

Thanks be to God.

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PSALM: Psalm 148

SECOND READING: Revelation 21:1-6

The psalm for the day is sung.

John sees a vision of a new heaven and new earth, where God will dwell with humanity, wiping away all tears and bringing an end to death, mourning, and pain. From the throne, God declares, “I am making all things new,” offering the water of life as a gift to all who thirst.

Refrain by Keth Hampton.

Venesia Sarah Laura Hutabarat, lector

I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. 2And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, 1

Psalm tone reproduced from Psalter for Worship Year C. ©2006 Augsbug Fortress. May be reproduced by permission for local use only.

Hallelujah! Praise the Lord | from the heavens; praise God | in the heights.

2 Praise the Lord, | all you angels; sing praise, all you | hosts of heaven.

3 Praise the Lord, | sun and moon; sing praise, all you | shining stars.

4 Praise the Lord, heav- | en of heavens, and you waters a- | bove the heavens.

5 Let them praise the name | of the Lord, who commanded, and they | were created, 6 who made them stand fast forev- | er and ever, giving them a law that shall not | pass away. R 7 Praise the Lord | from the earth, you sea monsters | and all deeps; 8 fire and hail, | snow and fog, tempestuous wind, do- | ing God’s will; 9 mountains | and all hills, fruit trees | and all cedars; 10 wild beasts | and all cattle, creeping things and | flying birds; 11 sovereigns of the earth | and all peoples, princes and all rulers | of the world; 12 young | men and maidens, old and | young together. R 13 Let them praise the name | of the Lord, whose name only is exalted, whose splendor is over | earth and heaven.

14 The Lord has raised up strength for the people and praise for all | faithful servants, the children of Israel, a people who are near the Lord. | Hallelujah! R 1

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“See, the home of God is among mortals.

God will dwell with them; they will be God’s people, and that very God will be with them, 4 and will wipe every tear from their eyes.

Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed away.”

And the one who was seated on the throne said, “See, I am making all things new,” and also said, “Write this, for these words are trustworthy and true.” 6Then the one seated on the throne said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give water as a gift from the spring of the water of life.”

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Word of God, word of life.

Thanks be to God.

*GOSPEL ACCLAMATION The assembly rises to welcome the gospel.

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John 13:31-35

*GOSPEL

As Jesus prepares to depart, he speaks of his glorification and gives a new commandment to his disciples: to love one another as he loved them. He declares that their love for one another would be the defining mark of true discipleship.

The holy gospel according to John.

Glory to you, O Lord.

An assisting minister leads the prayers, ending each petition, “Merciful God.” The assembly responds, “receive our prayer.”

PEACE The peace of Christ be with you always.

And also with you.

When Judas had gone out, Jesus said, “Now the Son-of-Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him. 32If God has been glorified in him, God will also glorify him in God's own self and will glorify him at once. 33Little children, I am with you only a little longer. You will look for me; and as I said to the Judeans so now I say to you, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come.’ 34I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. 35By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

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The gospel of the Lord.

Praise to you, O Christ.

SERMON

*PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION

The people may greet one another with a sign of Christ’s peace, and may say, “Peace be with you,” or similar words in the many languages spoken within our community.

The assembly is seated.

MEAL God feeds us with the presence of Jesus Christ.

OFFERTORY The Rev. Dr. Brooke Petersen John H. Tietjen Chair of Pastoral Ministry; Assistant Professor of Pastoral Care; Director of MDiv, MA, and MAM Programs; Director Of ELCA Candidacy

Silence for reflection follows the sermon.

*HYMN OF THE DAY

When Charity and Love Prevail

I Am the Vine (Allen Pote) Jacqueline Miller, Flute

OFFERING The offering taken this evening will go to support the humanitarian and development work being carried out by the Lutheran World Federation. For more information, visit www.lutheranworld.org. To make a donation online, go to https://lstc.edu/make-a-gift-chapel/ or scan the QR code.

During this time, the table is set. After the offering is gathered, the assembly stands.

Bread, wine, money, and other gifts may be brought forward.

*OFFERING PRAYER *GREAT THANKSGIVING The Lord be with you.

And also with you.

Lift up your hearts.

We lift them to the Lord.

Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give our thanks and praise.

Text: Latin hymn, tr. Omer Westendorf, 1916-1997, alt. Music: MARTYRDOM, Hugh Wilson, 1764-1824. Text ©1960 World Library Publications. All rights reserved. Duplication in any form prohibited without permission or valid license from copyright administrator.

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Music by Arranged by

4 & b 4 úú úú úú úú ÏÏ ÏÏ ÏÏ ÏÏ 4 ைன க ளு ைட ய க ர் த் த ர் & b 4 ேúú ச úú úú úú ÏÏ luÏÏ dai ÏÏ ÏÏya karth Së nai ga thar ú ú ú ர் 44 ேú ச *PARISUTHAR, PARISUTHAR (HOLY, Ïக ளு ÏÏய HOLY) ைன ை க த Ï டHOLY, úú ர் த் ? Ï & bb PARISUTHAR, ú Ï Ï Ï ú ú úú Ï ú 4 Së Ï luÏ dai Ï Ïya karth nai ga thar ú ú 4 Ïக ளு ன Ï ட ÏÏயú கú ர் த்ú தúú ர் & b 4? úúb 44 ேúSëச úú ைnai ÏÏ luÏÏÏ ை ú ÏÏ ga ÏÏ yaú karth ú ú thar dai ú ú Ï Ï ே ச ை ன க ளு ை ட ய க ர் த் Ï ú த ர் úú ? b 44 ú 4 Ï ÏÏ Ï Ï ú ú thar Së nai ga lu dai ya karth ú ú ú ú b Ï ú Ï Ï Ï ÏÏ Ï ú ú & 4 ú Ï úú 4? Ï Ï Ï ú Ï ú ú Ï ú ú ú b 4 Ïப Ï ப ரி சு த் த ர் ; ரி சு த் த b ú ú ர் ; & ú Ï Ï ÏÏri suúú 4 Ï ú Ïri úsu ú pa thar; pa thar; Ï Ï ú ப ரி சு த் த ர் ; ப ரி சு த் த b ? ÏÏ úú ú ர் ; úú ÏÏ & b ÏÏ úú Ï n 4 Ï Ï ú Ï ú ú pa ri su thar; ri su thar; Ïpa Ï ப ரி சுúத் தúர் ; ப ரி ú சு த் ú த b ? Ï ú ú ர் ; Ï Ï & ú ú ú Ï Ï Ï b paÏÏÏ Ïriú nsuú ú thar; Ï paÏ Ïri ú úsu ú thar; ப ? ÏÏரி ÏÏசு த் n úú த ர் ; úú ப Ïரி ÏÏ சு த் úú த ர் ; ú 7 b pa b ri su su thar; ú thar; ú Ïpa îri Ï ? b 7& úú úú ú ÏÏ ÏÏ ÏÏÏÏ ÏÏn úú Ï ú úú ÏÏ ú த ன ú ர் î úவ ா & b பÏ ÏÏ முÏ ம் Ïரி Ï சுúத் 7 ú Ï Ïri 2 suú ú pa thar Vaa na Ï mum Ï ப ரி சு த் த ர் வ ா ன b î ? Ï Ï ú ú ú Ï &b Ï Ï முÏÏÏ ம் Ï î Ï ú ú 7 Ï Ïri 2 su ú pa thar Vaa na Ï mum பÏ ரி ú சுúத் த ர் î வா ன முÏ ú Ï Ï ம் Ï ú ú Ï ú &b ? Ï Ï î ÏÏ b paÏ Ïri ú suú ÏÏ mum Ï na ú ú thar Vaa ú Ï ÏÏ ப வா ú ன மு ம் ? b ÏÏரி ÏÏ சு 2த் ú த ர் ú 10 î Ï ú ú pa ri su ÏÏ ÏÏ ÏÏ ÏÏ Vaa Ï Ïna Ï ÏÏ mum ÏÏ ÏÏ thar ÏÏ b úúÏ ÏÏ úú ? b 10& ú ú ú Ï Ï Ï î Ï úமி யு ம் ú உ ம கி ை ம ய ா ல் ÏÏ ம் மு ÏÏ ைÏÏட ÏÏய úúபூ b boo ÏÏ yum 13 & ÏÏ ÏÏma ÏÏgi ÏÏmai úúyaal mi um mu dai ya 10 ÏÏ ம் úúமு Ïம கிÏ ww ை ÏÏ ம யúúா ல் ைÏட Ï Ï ய bb úúபூÏÏ Ï & ÏÏ மிÏÏÏ ÏÏயுÏÏ ம் Ï ÏÏ உ Ï Ï Ï ? Ï Ï Ï ú 13 & Ï Ï Ï Ïya Ï dai Ïந் தி Ïum ரு க்mu Ïma Ïgiன Ïmai úúúyaal b boo நி mi ை றyum 10 கி ன் ற © ú Ï Ï Ï Ï ÏÏú ம ய ா ல் பூ மி யு ம் உ ம் மு ை ட ய b Ï Ï Ï Ï Ï ú ww ை Ï Ï ÏÏ Ï Ï raÏÏÏ Ïம Ï கிÏ na Ï ÏÏ NiÏÏ mi Ï um ÏyumÏÏ dhi ú úú boo ? Ï Ï ú & b 13& Ï raindh ruk kin Ï Ï dai கிÏன்yaÏ றÏÏ ÏmaÏ Ïgiன ú úyaal Ï ருúக்mu b Ï Ï ÏÏ ம்ைÏÏறÏந் உÏதிÏÏம் Ïமு w Ïmai நி ú Ï Ï பூ b úÏ மி Ï யு ைÏ ட ய Ï Ï ம Ïகி © ைÏ மw ய ா ல் ? ú Ï & Ï ? Ï Ï Ï Ï Ï ú w ú Ï Ï Ï b Ï raindh um dhi mu ruk na yaal ú Ïya kin boob Ï mi Ni dai mara Ï yum ÏÏgi ©Ï ÏmaiÏ ன ww ú Ï நி ைÏற ந் Ï தி ருúக் கிÏன் Ï ற ú Ï Ï Ï ? Ï ú Ï Ï Ï ÏÏ rukÏ Ï kin Ï Ï raÏÏ Ï na ? ú b Ï Ï NiÏ raindh Ï dhi b Ï Ï Ï ú Ï © Ï wú Ï Ï ú w ?b 16 Ï Ï Ï Ï Ï ú Ï Ï ú úú úú Ï &b ú úú Ï 16 ú ன த ஓ ú ன் ÏÏ ங் கÏ ளி ல் ú úú úúசிsi & b உUn úú ú Ï na dhang ga lil ôú 16 úú ன் úú ÏÏ ங் கÏÏ ளிúல் úúசி úú உ ன த ஓ ? Ï & bb Un ú úsi ú ú Ï na dhang ga lil ôú ú ú ú Ï Ï úúசி ú ன த ங் க ளிúல் ஓ ú ? b உú ன் Ï ú Ï ú Un na dhang ga lil ô si ú úú Ï Ï úú ú ú ? Ï 19 ú Ï b ú ú j b & w ú ww ÏÏ .. ÏÏ ÏÏ ú 19 ÏÏ ய ன் னா க ர் த் தj ரி ன் நா b & wú ÏÏ .. ÏÏ rin ww ú ÏÏ 19 ÏÏ yan na karth tha naa w . j w Ï Ï Ï ய ன் ன ா க ர் த் த ரி ன் ந . ? Ïா ÏÏ . ÏÏ Ï & bb wyan ú www ú Ï J . na karth tha rin naa Ï Ï Ï ww ா ÏÏத ரிÏன் நÏÏ ா ன கÏ ர்.. த் ? b wwய ன் Ï 10 Ï J rin Ï yan na karth tha naa w . w Ï Ï Ï w ?b w ÏÏ Ï. Ï j 22 J Ï j b Ï. Ï Ï ú Ï

ய ன்

னா

wyan

&b Ï Ï

ம த்

math

?b Ï Ï & b ÏÏ 25 பட் & b pat ÏÏ Ï ? b பட் Ï pat Ï ?b Ï 25

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& b úú & b ஓúú ô ? b ஓú ôú ?b ú ú

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ÏÏ

தி

thi

Ï Ï ÏÏ

Ï Ï ட Ï ta Ï Ï Ï ta

ட

Ï. Ï.

ன ா ல்

naal

ÏÏ .. úú வர் úú var ú வர் ú var úú

ú ú சி ú ú si சி ú ú si ú ú

j ÏÏ ÏÏ

வ

vaj

Ï Ï

ரு

ru

த

ÏÏ ..

ww

?b w 22

க ர் த்

na

Ï Ï ú Ï Ï ú

கி

gi

ற

ra

வ ர்

var

ÏÏ ÏÏ ÏÏ ú ú úú ú உன் ன ú úúna úun ú ú உன் ன ú úun ú úúna ú

ww யwன் w yan யúன் ú yan úú

úú úú English:

Tamil:

ரி ன்

ÏÏ J

karth

Ï Ï

tha

Ï. Ï.

ஆ

நா

rin

naa

j Ï Ï Ï Ï

ÏÏ

Ï Ï

சீ ர் வ தி க் க

seer vathik Ïka

aa

Ï ÏÏ .. ÏÏ Ï ÏÏ ÏJ úú Ï தங் க ÏÏ Ï ளில் úú Ï dhang ga lil Ï Ï தங் க ளில் ú Ï ú Ï dhang ga lil Ï Ï úú Ï Ï w w னா w na w ன wா na w w w

Holy,parisuthar, Holy, Holy is the Lord of Hosts Sënaigaludaiya kartharSënaigaludaiya parisuthar, karthar parisuthar, parisuthar parisuthar, parisuthar Vaanamum boomiyum magimaiyal Sënaigaludaiya karthar ummudaiya parisuthar, parisuthar, parisuthar Heaven and earth are full of your glory Vaanamum boomiyum ummudaiya magimaiyal Niraindhirukkinrana Vaanamum boomiyum ummudaiya magimaiyal Niraindhirukkinrana Unnadhangalil ôsiyanna Niraindhirukkinrana Unnadhangalil ôsiyanna Hosanna in the Highest Kartharin naamathinaal Unnadhangalil ôsiyannavarugiravar Kartharin naamathinaal varugiravar Blessed is the one who comes Sthôtharikkappattavar Sthôtharikkappattavar in the name of the Lord Kartharin naamathinaal varugiravar Unnadhangalil ôsiyanna Unnadhangalil ôsiyanna Sthôtharikkappattavar

Hosanna in the Highest

Unnadhangalil ôsiyanna

The presiding minister continues, with the assembly offering the following responses:

as we proclaim the mystery of faith.

Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again. ...

Come, Holy Spirit.

Come, Holy Spirit.

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*LORD’S PRAYER

MUSIC DURING COMMUNION

Baptized and Set Free (ELW 453)

Gathered into one by the Holy Spirit, let us pray as Jesus taught us, in the many languages and traditions by which we have been blessed.

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.

Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil.

For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever. Amen.

*INVITATION TO COMMUNION The assembly may be seated.

COMMUNION COMMUNION SONG

Text: Cathy Skogen-Soldner, b. 1956. Music: BAPTIZED AND SET FREE, Cathy Skogen-Soldner. Text and music ©1999 Augsburg Fortress. Duplication in any form prohibited without securing permission from copyright administrator.

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Anointing Fall On Me MUSIC DURING COMMUNION

Anointing, Fall onby.

Me as perf Ron(ACS Kenoly1013)

Bmaj7

= 63

Gmaj7

Abba, Abba, Hear Us (ACS 1072)

*SENDING SONG

Em7 A7

F m7 Bm7

Alto rit.

A tempo

A - noin - ting

fall on me

A-

Piano

F m7 Bm7

5

Em7 A7

- noin - ting

8

Gmaj7 Fall

fall on me

C9 on me

D7/F

D/F

Let the Po-wer Of

Bm6

A7

A - noin - ting

fall

the Ho - - ly Ghost

D on

me

Gmaj7 A-

Text: Andrew Donaldson, b. 1951. Music: ARIRANG, Korean traditional. Text © 1996, 2001 Andrew Donaldson, admin. Augsburg Fortress.

Duplication in any form prohibited without permission or valid license from copyright administrator or reporting usage under valid license.

Copyright ©

*PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION

*DISMISSAL The assisting minister sends the assembly into mission.

Response after the prayer: Amen.

Go in peace. Share the good news.

Thanks be to God.

SENDING God blesses us and sends us in mission to the world.

*BLESSING

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND SOURCES Many materials contained within this order of worship are protected under copyright laws and are used with the express permission granted by One License, License Number A-721113. All rights reserved. All Augsburg Fortress copyrighted liturgical texts, liturgical music, and service music is licensed under Augsburg Fortress Liturgies Annual License number SAS019574.

“Parisuthar” (Holy, Holy, Holy) is from the Tamil Evangelical Lutheran Church hymnal and order of service.

LSTC Music Ministry and Friends of the Program

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GATHERING SONG

+ COMMENCEMENT +

Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones (ELW 424) ACADEMIC PROCESSION

Mark N. Swanson, Faculty Marshal The graduates, faculty, board, and guests enter

LSTC Festival Procession

Arranged by Keith Hampton

GATHERING SONG

Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones (ELW 424)

PRAYER OF INVOCATION

Response after the prayer: Amen. The assembly is seated.

WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS

Michael Cooper-White, Interim President

THE COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS

Bishop Yehiel Curry

Metropolitan Chicago Synod

MUSIC SELECTION: Anyhow

Spiritual arranged by Evelyn La Rue Pittman LSTC Music Ministry and Friends of the Program

PRESENTATION OF CERTIFICATES, DIPLOMAS, AND AWARDS INTRODUCTION

Linda Thomas

Vice President and Dean for Academic Affairs

PRESENTATION OF GRADUATES

Michael Cooper-White

Candidates for the Certificate in Theological Education for Emerging Ministries

Linda Thomas

Candidates for the Master of Arts Degrees

Brooke Petersen

Candidates for the Master of Divinity Degree

Brooke Petersen

Candidates for the Master of Theology Degree

Mark Swanson

Candidates for the Doctor of Ministry Degree

Mark Swanson

Candidates for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree

Mark Swanson

PRESENTATION OF THE EDGAR KRENTZ PRIZE FOR GREEK EXEGESIS

Karri Alldredge

PRESENTATION OF THE JAMES KENNETH ECHOLS PRIZE FOR EXCELLENCE IN PREACHING

Text: J. Athelstan Riley, 1858-1945. Music: LASST UNS ERFREUEN, Geistliche Kirxhengesänge, Köln, 1623. Outside USA: Text from The English Hymnal, © Oxford University Press 1906. All rights reserved. Duplication in any form prohibited without permission or valid license from copyright administrator.

Christian Scharen

PRESENTATION OF THE BIBLE AND LUTHERAN FAITH PRIZE

Esther Menn

PRESENTATION OF THE LEANDER RUFUS VETHANAYAGAMONY MEMORIAL FELLOWSHIP

Ariana Strahl

RECOGNITION OF THE LSTC FACULTY AND STAFF PRESENTATION OF THE 2025 CLASS GIFT WELCOME FROM THE ALUMNI BOARD

Philanthropic Engagement Officer

Michael Cooper-White Emily Moentmann Michael Fick (2004, MDiv) Alumni Board Chair

BLESSING

Response after the prayer: Amen.

RECESSIONAL: Toccata from Symphony #5 16

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Charles-Marie Widor

+ THE COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER + Bishop Yehiel Curry of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod has had a long and fruitful association with the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC). He recently completed a three-year term on the Board of Directors as the Region 5 Bishops’ Representative and continues to be a vital voice in the life of the seminary.

Bishop Curry has been a frequent speaker and panelist at special events at LSTC, including most recently at Homecoming 2021, where he participated in a panel on “Equity, Eco-Healing, and Human Health.” He returned to campus in April 2024 as the preacher for the closing worship service of LSTC’s Homecoming and Seminex 50th Anniversary celebration. His bold vision and commitments resonate deeply with the public church values that LSTC lifts up.

During the September 2023 meeting of the Conference of Bishops, Rev. Curry was elected to a four-year term as chair of the conference, further reflecting the respect he commands as a leader in the ELCA and beyond.

CANDIDATES FOR THE CERTIFICATE IN

+ THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION FOR EMERGING MINISTRIES + Dennis J. Debrie

Concepcion A. Ortega

CANDIDATES FOR THE DEGREE OF

+ MASTER OF ARTS + Jan Frando Purba

Adele Lynn Stuever

CANDIDATES FOR THE DEGREE OF

+ MASTER OF DIVINITY + Juan Manuel Arias Perea (H)

Jayme Lynn Kokkonen

Kylee Sue Bestenlehner

Jacqueline Paige Miller

Prior to his election as Bishop in 2019, Bishop Curry served as pastor at Shekinah Chapel Lutheran Church in Riverdale, IL (2013–2019), where he had previously worked as a mission developer (2007–2012). Shekinah Chapel grew out of Safe in My Brother’s Arms (SIMBA), a youth development and mentoring initiative for African American youth on the South Side of Chicago.

It was through his work in this ELCA initiative that Bishop Curry became affiliated with the denomination.

Timothy Edward Colón-Geistlinger

Emily Jane Moentmann (I)

Shemiah K. Curry

Trenton Davis Ormsbee-Hale*

Sharei Angelica Green

Aquilino Perez III*

Hannah Emily Johnsrud

Rachel Perkins-Gama

He completed the TEEM (Theological Education for Emerging Ministries) program at LSTC in 2009 and went on to earn his Master of Divinity degree in 2013. Since then, he has championed the TEEM program and helped guide its growth. LSTC now has two TEEM cohorts currently progressing through the program, in no small part due to his support.

Gail Ann Kenny

Bishop Curry is the founder and advisor of Riverdale Organized for Change (ROC), which works to address chronic flooding issues caused by inadequate sewer systems in Chicago’s south suburbs. He also serves on the Policy and Organizing Board for the Community Renewal Society in Chicago.

His work and witness have been recognized through numerous awards, including the LSTC Emerging Voice Distinguished Alumni Award, the LSTC Distinguished Service Award, the Metro Chicago Synod Strategy Team Spirit of Timothy Award, and the ELCA Youth Ministry Network Tom Hunstad Award.

He earned his BA from Lewis University in Romeoville, IL, and spent several years working in social services and teaching sixth grade social studies before entering ministry.

Bishop Curry and his wife, LaShonda Curry, have three daughters: Shemiah, Ashirah, and Shekinah.

LSTC is especially delighted that Shemiah Curry is following in her father’s footsteps as a student in the Master of Divinity program.

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A Completed requirements for African Descent Emphasis B Completed requirements for Biblical Studies Emphasis C Completed requirements for Christian Theology and Ethics Emphasis E Completed requirements for Environmental Ministry Emphasis H Completed requirements for Hispanic Ministry Emphasis I Completed requirements for Interfaith Emphasis *In absentia

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CANDIDATES FOR THE DEGREE OF

+ MASTER OF THEOLOGY + Venesia Sarah Laura Hutabarat

Philip Maikkula*

CANDIDATES FOR THE DEGREE OF

+ DOCTOR OF MINISTRY + Joseph Ki Fat Chu

Cecilia Nyberg*

THESIS-PROJECT: The Dividing Wall of Hostility: Reducing

THESIS: When the Word Comes Alive: Ignatian Spirituality

Political Polarization by Cultivating an Ethos of Shared

in the Sermon

Discipleship within ELCA Congregations

Marie-Louise Riise

Carin Magdalena Hedman

THESIS: Embodied Preaching and a Word of Hope:

THESIS: Comfort Ye My People: Preaching Comfort and Hope

Proclaiming Vulnerability and Grace. An Exploration of

in Difficult Times

Incarnational Preaching, Authenticity, and Christian Hope

Mathilde Karlgren*

Rev. Dr. Ralen M. Robinson

THESIS: Preaching the Old Testament for a Change

THESIS: The Avenue: Uniting Congregations in Cultural Inclusivity

Veronica John Mwakasungura THESIS-PROJECT: The Church's Contribution to Community

Jenny Sjögreen

Development: Identifying the Benefits and Contributions

THESIS: For the Life of the World: Catechumenal

of Lutheran Diakonia Ministry to the Community of

Preaching as Formation and Transformation Beyond the

Post-Genocide Rwanda

Individual

+ Community of the Cross Award + Honoring the Community Renewal Society The Community of the Cross Award is given to a community, institution, congregation, or any collectively functioning Christian group whose activities manifest the invitation of our Lord to take up the cross and follow him, and whose service is directed to the world around it, both Christian and non-Christian, and whose satisfaction and honor derive from the gospel.

This year, the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago is proud to present the Community of the Cross Award to the Community Renewal Society. Dr. Linda Thomas, Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs; Bernard, Fischer, Westberg Distinguished Professor of Theology and Anthropology; Director of Rev. Dr. Albert “Pete” Pero, Jr. and Dr. Cheryl Stewart Pero Center for Intersectionality Studies, will confer this honor in recognition of CRS’s steadfast commitment to justice, faith-driven action, and leadership development.

In her nomination, Dr. Thomas shared, “This is the group who sponsored leaders to Palestine, in which I participated. It is also the group that has supported our students, sending them to the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference for several years.”

LSTC has directly benefited from CRS’s mission, particularly through its support for students engaging in theological and justice-based leadership development. By fostering participation in the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference and interfaith delegations to Palestine, CRS strengthens the next generation of faithrooted activists and advocates.

For more than 140 years, CRS has been at the forefront of social transformation, working with congregations and faith communities to dismantle systemic racism and poverty. Through its policy advocacy, leadership training, and grassroots organizing, CRS equips faith leaders with the tools to shape public policies and enact meaningful change. Its member congregations form a powerful, multi-racial network, speaking with one resounding voice to overcome barriers of injustice and inequity.

Under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Waltrina Middleton, a Chicago Theological Seminary graduate and a passionate advocate for intersectional justice, CRS continues to advance the vision of the Beloved Community—where all of God’s children flourish and live in dignity.

We honor the Community Renewal Society for its dedication to faith in action and its commitment to building a just and equitable world.

For more information, visit communityrenewalsociety.org.

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+ Honoring President and Professor Emeritus James Nieman + After thirteen years of service as President of the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago, Dr. James Nieman has received from the Board of Directors the title “President and Professor Emeritus.” His tenure was one of significant transformation, marked by institutional resilience, challenging decisions, and faithful commitment to theological education that engages our world.

A recognized scholar in practical theology, Nieman’s influence extends beyond LSTC. He served as President of the Association of Practical Theology, Secretary of the International Academy of Practical Theology, a board member of the Louisville Institute, and co-editor of the International Journal of Practical Theology. Besides many articles and presentations, his scholarship includes co-authoring Christian Practical Wisdom: What It Is, Why It Matters (2016), writing Knowing the Context: Frames, Tools, and Signs for Preaching (2008), and co-editing Church, Identity, and Change: Theology and Denominational Structures in Unsettled Times (2005).

At LSTC, Nieman’s leadership was known for being both strategic and missional, focused on financial sustainability, helping the Board of Directors be more effective, and advancing theological education for a changing world. “When you deny the realities of change,” Nieman remarked, “you pay an immense cost and cannot succeed in the long run.” This sense of LSTC as an adaptive and evolving seminary led to some of the most potent moments during his years of service—moments that required courage, discipline, and openness to change.

When asked for a singular event that defined his service at LSTC, Nieman instead pointed to three: a time of recovery, when the institution had to address accreditation issues and long-term sustainability challenges in order to continue its mission with integrity; a time of repatriation, when Codex 1424 was returned to the Greek Orthodox Church as a sign of the school’s ethical commitments; and a time of relocation, when LSTC relocated to state-of-the-art educational facilities shared with Roman Catholic and Presbyterian colleagues, strengthening our ecumenical partnerships and opening the door for new forms of pedagogy and educational delivery.

These three moments, Nieman reflected, showed a school that “could be disciplined about something, could commit to its deepest values, and could embrace significant change constructively.”

Nieman’s presidency was also defined by the ways theological education became more responsive to shifting realities. This meant recognizing that freestanding seminaries could no longer rely on outdated models of learning. “We kept trying to imagine that we could reconstruct the school of 1967,” he said of early discussions about how LSTC might adapt to meet the needs of the future. “But [by the time I assumed office] the assumptions about our school and leadership formation had already changed.”

LSTC’s commitment to bold, forward-thinking initiatives proved crucial. During Nieman’s service, the Public Church curriculum was developed to embed antiracism, intersectionality, contextuality, and global perspectives into the core of the instruction. “Not everyone was in favor of this,” Nieman added, “but we realized we had to reorganize ourselves to engage these issues and methods. And this is what was needed more broadly in our church.”

One of Nieman’s greatest hopes for LSTC is that the school expand its sense for the intended recipients of theological education. In recent years, the seminary has worked to move beyond a conventional residential model or degree-based structure to serve a broader community of learners.

“Nothing will break open the seminary quite as much as ending our solitary reliance on the production of degrees for students who have the luxury of time and money to relocate and come be with us,” he explains. His hope for LSTC’s future is clear: “The more that we are able to meet people where they are in

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their lives and offer them the meaningful tools they are seeking, the better. That’s where the real change happens.”

As Dr. Nieman steps into this new chapter as President Emeritus, his hope for our most recent graduates is both personal and profound: “It’s better to take risks than to play it safe. Risks drive you into new ways of living far more inventive and inspiring than if you simply try to be accepted or liked. Taking risks also means you will at times be at odds with others or disappoint those who want you to go another way. In the end, though, taking risks opens up new possibilities and valuable potentials.”

Nieman concludes with a call to be grounded in what truly matters: “The core mission in ministry and in a life of faith is to manifest love toward the neighbor, whoever that may be. It is so seductive to avoid this, to climb a ladder of status and merit. I pray we can learn to stand on the same ground as other people, meet them where they are, risk something with and for them. That’s a ministry worth living.”

LSTC has been shaped by Nieman’s leadership, vision, and courage. His tenure was one of embodied growth and transformation—not just for the seminary, but for the many students, faculty, staff, and friends his work has touched. As we celebrate the Class of 2025, we also recognize that legacy.

+ Honoring Michael Huckelberry: 44 Years of Dedicated Service + For more than four decades, Michael Huckelberry was an unwavering presence at LSTC, serving as Director of Building Services and ensuring that the seminary’s physical spaces remained effective, welcoming, and efficient. Starting his career at LSTC in January of 1980 as a young building engineer, Huckelberry quickly found a home in the community—a place where his work was valued and where he, in turn, found purpose.

“I really enjoyed my work there—the people, the challenges. I worked with so many good people and had so many good relationships,” Huckelberry said, recalling his time on campus. “I always enjoyed going to work and got a lot of satisfaction out of my job at LSTC.” Over the years, Huckelberry witnessed the evolution of technology, infrastructure, and even the very buildings that made up the seminary. He took great pride in LSTC’s commitment to maintaining its facilities in-house, ensuring that the institution remained a good steward of its resources. “We always tried to save the school money by handling things internally. For most of my career, if there was an issue, we had the people to take care of it. I was always proud of that,” he reflected.

Beyond his technical expertise, it was Huckelberry’s warm and steady presence that left a lasting impact.

He built relationships with faculty, students, and staff alike, creating an environment where people felt welcomed and cared for. “It was always nice to be at a place where the mission was about preparing people to make the world better,” he said. “I was always grateful to be a part of that.”

As this year's graduates prepare to embark on their own journeys, Huckelberry leaves them with a simple yet powerful piece of advice: “Be grateful for the opportunities you have and those to come. Focus on doing good in the world and bring out the best in the people around you. If you keep that as your focus, you’ll make the world a better place.”

Thank you, Mike, for 44 years of service, leadership, and care. LSTC, and our world, is a better place because of you.

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+ FACULTY +

+ DISTINGUISHED AFFILIATE FACULTY +

Karri Alldredge

Christian Scharen

Ghulam-Haider Aasi

Carol Schersten LaHurd

Assistant Professor of New Testament

Associate Professor and Gordon Braatz Chair of Worship

Distinguished Affiliate Professor

Distinguished Affiliate Professor

Candace Kohli

Mark N. Swanson

Mercedes García-Bachmann

Craig A. Satterlee

Assistant Professor of Lutheran Systematic Theology and

Harold S. Vogelaar Professor of Christian-Muslim Studies

Professor of Old Testament

Adjunct Professor of Homiletics

Global Lutheranism; Director, Distance Learning Initiatives

and Interfaith Relations

Antje Jackelén

Audrey West

Adjunct Professor of Systematic Theology/Religion and

Adjunct Associate Professor of New Testament

Associate Director of A Center of Christian-Muslim

Rafael Malpica Padilla

Engagement for Peace and Justice

Damm Chair in Leadership

Science

Gayle E. Woloschak

Linda E. Thomas

Director of Latine Ministry and Theology

Adjunct Professor of Religion and Science Studies

Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs

Esther M. Menn

Bernard, Fischer, Westberg Distinguished Professor of

Ralph W. and Marilyn R. Klein Professor

Theology and Anthropology

of Old Testament/Hebrew Bible

+ ADJUNCT FACULTY +

Director of Rev Dr. Albert “Pete” Pero, Jr. and Dr. Cheryl

Brooke Petersen

Stewart Pero Center for Intersectionality Studies

John H. Tietjen Chair of Pastoral Ministry

(KVALIFICERAD FORTBILDNING PREDIKAN, SIGTUNA SWEDEN)

Peter Vethanayagamony

Assistant Professor of Pastoral Care

Augustana Heritage Professor of Global Mission and World

Director of MDiv, MA and MAM programs

Christianity

Director of ELCA Candidacy

Marvin E. Wickware, Jr. Associate Professor of Church and Society and Ethics

+ EMERITI FACULTY +

Niclas Blåder

Tina Johansson

Caroline Edlund

Carina Sundberg

Ola Fornling

Johan Svedberg

+ AUXILIARY FACULTY + Chrisida Anandan

Vickie Johnson

Augustana Heritage Professor emeritus of Global Mission and

Patricia Cuyatti-Chavez

Craig Mueller

World Christianity

Ruben Duran

Rosanne Swanson

John H. Tietjen Endowed Chair in Pastoral Ministry:

Barbara R. Rossing

Pastoral Theology, Professor emerita of Pastoral Theology

Professor emerita of New Testament

Chingboi Guite

Vinod Wesley

Kurt K. Hendel

Michael Shelley

Francisco Herrera

Gayle Woloschak

Bernard, Fischer, Westberg Distinguished Ministry

Director emeritus of A Center of Christian-Muslim

Professor emeritus of Reformation History

Engagement for Peace and Justice

James Nieman

Harold S. Vogelaar

President and Professor emeritus

Professor emeritus of World Religions

Richard J. Perry Jr.

Christine Wenderoth

Professor emeritus of Church and Society and Urban Ministry

Director Emerita, JKM Library;

Terrence Baeder

José David Rodríguez

Director emeritus of Field Education

Kathleen D. Billman

Associate Professor emerita of Ministry

David M. Rhoads Professor emeritus of New Testament

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+ ADMINISTRATION AND STAFF +

+ 2025 COMMENCEMENT THEME AND ARTIST INFORMATION +

Samantha Adindu

Alicia Jakubowicz

CRM and Events Manager

Advancement Operations Coordinator

Michael Cooper-White

Jennifer Kellogg

Interim President

Controller

God dwells so richly in the hearts and hands of all God’s people. Alleluia!

Aaron Copley-Spivey

Rhiannon Koehler

Director of Human Resources; Title IX Coordinator

Senior Director of Marketing and Communications

This work, Dwelling Within, is crafted as a prayer for this year’s graduates entering a world in transition. The following prayer accompanied its creation.

Vimary “Vima” Couvertier-Cruz

Bianca Leoni

Director of Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Justice

Housing and Student Employment Manager

Patti DeBias

Sandra H. Nelson

Assistant to the President

Vice President for Advancement

Amen

Samantha DeBias

Tim Olson

Accounting Coordinator

IT Manager

Keisha Dyson

Arthur C. Petersen

Ann Gerondelis Sketch Prayers Studio 2025

Vice President for Enterprise Innovation

Editor, Zygon Journal of Religion and Science

Bradley Arnette Erz

Nathaniel Ramsey

Registrar

Director of Financial Aid

James Foster

Charles Sansone

Director of Security and Operations

Director of IT

Laura Frost

Marji Shannon

Interim Director, JKM Library

Director of Contextual Education; Director of the Theological Education for Emerging Ministries (TEEM) Program

Matt Frost

Cindy Sisson

JKM Services Coordinator, JKM Library

“Dwelling Within”

O present God, you go before these graduates, already preparing the places they will go. Walk with them as they journey, near and far, following your invitation. May they know you dwell within them, and in the hearts and hands of all your people, bearing your gifts of love and light for all the world.

+ LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT + LSTC recognizes that our school stands on the lands of the Potawatomi, Miami, and Peoria peoples.

For thousands of years before their forced removal, this was their traditional homeland, and it continues to hold their ancestral stories and wisdom. We honor and thank the elders of these and other nations, past and present. These lands are still home to many indigenous people, and we are grateful to learn in this place.

Interim Director of Admissions and Advisor for Enrollment

David Glover

Strategies

Editorial Assistant, Zygon Journal, Project Administrator,

Rebra Stevens

ZCRS

Senior Staff Accountant

Keith Hampton

+ RECONCILING IN CHRIST SEMINARY +

Jennifer Stone

Cantor to the Seminary Community

Director of Advancement Services

Marvis Hardy

Ariana Strahl

International Student Services and Pero Center Coordinator

Philanthropic Engagement Officer

Stephanie Holding

Sara Trumm

Interim Director, JKM Library

Director, A Center of Christian-Muslim Engagement for

Cheryl Hoth

As a Reconciling in Christ seminary, LSTC seeks to offer hospitality and welcome to all who enter LSTC’s academic programs. Following Jesus Christ, whose reconciling love bridged barriers and made strangers friends, we seek to welcome and learn from one another’s particularity—including but not limited to one another’s race, national or ethnic origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, physical ability, social status, and theological diversity.

Peace and Justice

Assistant to the Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs

Gloria Vicente

Jessica P. Houston

Part-Time Advanced Studies Coordinator

Alumni and Congregational Engagement Officer

Richard Vivian

Peter Iversen

Vice President of Finance and Operations

Philanthropic Engagement Officer

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