PANA Institute for Leadership Development

Dr. Fumitaka Matsuoka gave this benediction at the GTU Graduates of Color ceremony sponsored by PANA, The GTU Black Seminarians, & the GTU Seminaristas on May 21, 2008:

You are about to leave this Holy Hill. As you go:

Know how much this world full of wars, racism, and poverty
needs your gladness;

Know that there are words of truth and healing that will never be spoken
unless you speak them,

and deeds of compassion, justice, and courage that will never be done
unless you do them;

Do not mistake success for victory,
or failure for defeat;

Do not be content with whatever the wealth or status the world may bestow upon you;

But know at last that you are created, not for happiness, but for joy,
and that joy is to you alone who, sometimes with tears in your eyes,
commit yourself in love to God
and to your sisters and brothers.

Most of all, may you be led by God ever deeper into the knowledge that finally all people,
regardless of the color of their skin,
regardless of their economic and social status,
are indeed one,
and that there can never really be joy for you
unless there is joy for all.

So go from here…

Go in safety, for you cannot go where God is not.

Go in love, for love alone endures.

Go with purpose, and God will honor your dedication.

Go in peace, for it is the gift to those whose hearts and minds are in God.

Amen.