Life Lines
‘farewell goes out sighing’
There was a special poignancy to Dr. Kristin King’s “Farewell” (page 381) to
the graduates of Bryn Athyn College at their May 30th commencement.
Not only was she bidding farewell to the students – calling on them to take
what they have received from the College and to fare well in lives of service –
but this was also her farewell as President of the College.
We who also bid farewell to her in this noble use could not have done so
nearly as graciously or eloquently, but with every bit as much affection and
appreciation.
Kristin stepped out of the classrooms she loves five years ago to guide
the College through a challenging transition of growth and expansion. Her
leadership has been extraordinary. She brought a gracious spirit, a calm sense
of wisdom and assurance, and a commitment that was always guided by the
Lord and the College’s unique spiritual mission.
Incoming President Brian Blair is blessed to inherit a College with a sense
of stability and sure direction. Challenges will only intensify but there is hope
for its future, thanks to the gift of Kristin’s leadership.
There is no doubt she will “fare well” back in the classroom as a gifted
professor of English literature. And who but William Shakespeare to put the
words to our bittersweet emotions: “Welcome ever smiles, and farewell goes
out sighing.” (Troilus and Cressida)
(BMH)
worldview
In addition to the various academic subjects taught in our church schools,
instilling a New Church worldview in our students is basic. The view they
gain of “The Big Picture” will provide a context and perspective in which the
various facts they acquire, in school and throughout their lives, can be seen in
a true light.
A New Church worldview begins with acknowledgment of the Lord, of
course. “For with Thee is the fountain of life: in Thy light we shall see light.”
(Psalm 36:9) Other aspects of it follow from the main teachings of the
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