As family, friends, and well-wishers looked on, Peace Theological Seminary and College of Philosophy (PTS) graduated its eighth class of Masters of Spiritual Science and its second class of Doctor of Spiritual Science students. Each graduate received their diplomas, along with hugs from John Morton and John-Roger.
Dr. Liz Bixby Garver, PTS’s Academic Dean, directed the ceremonies, graciously giving credit to PTS staff member, Ken Jones, for his invaluable service to the Seminary’s programs.
Dr. Liz told us about the Doctor of Spiritual Science (DSS) program, and explained the process of “hooding”, and the symbology of the colors in the hoods which go on the robes that Doctoral Candidates wear. DSS facilitators Pauli Sanderson and Paul Kaye modeling the hoods. Then the ceremony of “hooding” took place for the six Candidates for Doctorate in Spiritual Science: David Bransky, Catherine Corona, Estelle Day, Nann Kyra, Ilenya Marin, and Rachelle Zazzu. John Morton placed the hood on each Doctoral candidate and John-Roger gave them their doctoral diplomas.
Paul Kaye and Pauli Sanderson honored Dr. Liz for her extraordinary service to PTS’s Doctoral program. She thanked all of those she worked with, and her husband Randy Garver for his patience and support.
John Morton was invited to speak, and he began his very inspirational commencement address by honoring and acknowledging the efforts and intentions of all of the participants in the PTS Masters and Doctoral classes. John touched on a number of subjects, and he likened the process of the PTS graduate programs to being taken to “ground zero” inside of oneself, in the letting go of those things that don’t work in life. He saw it as the beginning of the building of a solid foundation. He encouraged all of the graduates to walk a little taller and straighter, to let go of the past with thankfulness, and to be alive in the Spirit as a Light of God. He spoke about the gift of being constantly confronted with the Truth of who we are. John touched on ordinariness, forgetfulness, forgiveness, and about embracing the Inner Silence that can be a constant companion in our darkest moments. John inspired all of those present to continue learning and growing.
Dr. Liz came back on stage to conclude the program and thank all of the attendees, and then families and friends mingled in the ballroom congratulating the graduates.
Click here for the article & photos from the IIWP Blessings Brunch with John Morton.
Click here for the article & photos from the Ministers & Initiates Meetings at Conference 2002.
Click here for the article & photos from the Coming Home Workshop.
Click here for the article & photos from the IIWP Donors Seminar.
Click here for the article & photos from the Soul Initiation Workshop.
Click here for the article & photos from the Family Retreat at the Conference of Coming Home.
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