Africa-Press – Liberia. The Liberia Baptist Theological Seminary (LBTS), headed by Rev. Dr. Momolu A. Massaquoi, has graduated forty-six seminarians who are ready to take on global challenges with theological insight.
The event, which was held on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at the Liberia Baptist Seminary in Paynesville, marks the forty-first Commencement Convocation.
Attending the event was Minister of Foreign Affairs Dee Maxwell. Saah Kemayah, Sr., Judge Eva Mappy Morgan, Former City Mayor of Monrovia Ophelia Hoff Saytumah, Rev. Francis Horton, Rev. Arthur Gboe Wehyee, Emmanuel B. James, Rev. Dea. Morris G. Siah, Sr., Deacon Abraham Simmons, Dr. Calvin Birch, Rev. Trocon W. Langford, Rev. Dr. Pearl Browne Bull, Rev. Ohato Blama, Rev. Dr. Momolu A Massaquoi, and Rev. Dr. Samuel B. Reeves.
Two students graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology, while 44 students graduated with certificates in theology.
During the Commencement Convocation, Kemayah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of LBTS served as the Commencement Speaker. He stated that it was a distinguished honor and special privilege for him to be selected as the commencement speaker.
He encouraged the graduates to take a moment to reflect on the profound impact that theological education has had on them individually and the immense potential it holds for their society, for Liberia, for the Western Region, for the Continent of Africa, and the world at large, as they donned their academic regalia and prepared to receive their degrees and certificates in their respective academic disciplines.
He emphasized that graduation is a time of reflection, a time to look back at the challenges that one encountered and eventually overcame. “It provides a person with an opportunity to soberly reflect on the knowledge they have acquired and the growth they have experienced,” he said.
Kemayah told the graduates that as they step into the world as theologians and achievers in their respective fields of study, it is essential to recognize the unique role they have in addressing the issues that plague Liberian society. “And it should also be an opportunity to take in and reflect on the lofty philosophy of the Baptist denomination,” he added.
He told them that their journey through theological education at LBTS has been one of self-discovery, intellectual growth, and spiritual enrichment.
“You have delved deep into the mysteries of faith, grappled with complex theological concepts, and engaged in profound discussions that have shaped your understanding of God, the Almighty, humanity, and the world we inhabit,” he said. “This great journey has not only equipped you with knowledge and skills, but has also nurtured your hearts and souls, preparing you to become agents of change in a world yearning for healing, peace, justice, and love for all.
Kemayah urged the graduates to draw inspiration from the words of Nelson Mandela, who said: “Education is the most powerful weapon, which you can use to change the world.”
He highlighted that theological education is specialized knowledge that has armed the graduates with the power and wisdom to foster healing, peace, reconciliation, and unity within Liberia, the African region, and the world.
“It has armed you to propagate the theory of the ‘Good Samaritan,” he added. “It is your purview and ability to foster love over hate, peace over conflict or war, reconciliation over divisiveness, unity over disunity, and virtue over vice in society. As you stand on the threshold of a new chapter in your respective lives, you are faced with immense responsibility. The world we live in is beset by numerous challenges: poverty, inequality, corruption, violence, terrorism, extremism, war, unconstitutional changes in governments, inhumanity, and environmental degradation. These issues are not unique to our region but also resonate deeply across our one world and continue to endure our own unique share of trials and tribulations,” he said.
According to him, Liberia has enjoyed a rich history marked by both triumphs and tragedies, good and bad. From the successful story of being Africa’s first and oldest independent republic to a devastating civil war that ravaged the land for years to the lingering effects of poverty and corruption, Liberia has experienced deep wounds that require healing.
“It will be healed,” Kemayah declared. “We will lift Liberia. But as we prepare to heal, we must understand that we are resilient people, imbued with a spirit of hope and perseverance. Liberia looks to its theological leaders for guidance, inspiration, and a vision of a brighter future. In the words of the great theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer, ‘Action springs not from thought but from a readiness for responsibility.’”
Rev. Dr. Momolu A. Massaquoi, President of LBTS, commended the graduates for their dedication to academic excellence. They noted that the pursuit of knowledge is a noble endeavor, and they have demonstrated remarkable commitment, discipline, and intellectual curiosity throughout their time at the seminary.
He also urged the graduates never to cease to be inquisitive, to seek understanding, and to engage in lifelong learning.
“The world is ever-changing,” he said. “Your commitment to intellectual growth will be essential as you navigate the complexities of the modern age. Beyond academic pursuits, I am equally proud of the spiritual growth that each of you has experienced during your time at the Liberia Baptist Theological Seminary (LBTS). Here, you have been nurtured in an environment that cherishes faith, compassion, and the pursuit of spiritual understanding. You have engaged in deep theological study, reflection, and prayer and you have emerged as individuals with a profound connection to your faith and a deep understanding of its implications for your lives and ministries.
He told the graduates that as they move forward, they should hold fast to the spiritual foundations that have been laid within them; and that their faith should be a source of strength, guidance, and inspiration as they encounter the joys and trials of life.
However, the LBTS President also urged the graduates to cultivate a spirit of humility and openness and continue to seek deeper communion with the divine.
“Your spiritual growth is not merely a personal achievement but a gift that you are called to share with others,” he stated, “offering hope and silence to those who may be in need. Lastly, I wish to address the ministerial aspect of your calling. Each of you has been shaped and prepared to serve as ministers, leaders, and agents of change within your respective communities. The knowledge and skills you have acquired, coupled with the depth of your spiritual understanding, have equipped you to embark on a journey of ministerial service that is both profound and impactful.
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