More than 210 students were gowned, capped and sent into the world to lead lives of leadership and service under the Lordship of Jesus Christ at Redeemer University College’s 2015 Graduation Ceremony.

While a true celebration of the completion of each student’s studies, the ceremony is also the beginning of their next stage of their lives. During their time here, Redeemer’s goal has been to prepare students for their future; that’s why the event is also known as Commencement.

Guest speaker Dr. Jean Chamberlain-Froese addressed the Class of 2015 with words of encouragement based on God’s promise to his people in Ephesians 3. Dr. Chamberlain-Froese is the founder of Save the Mothers, an international organization that equips professionals in developing countries to improve the health of mothers and babies. In 2012 she received the Diamond Jubilee Medal and in 2015 she was honoured with the Order of Canada. The Froese family serves with SIM Canada in Uganda eight months of the year.

Dr. Chamberlain-Froese asked the graduates to imagine what life would look like if God provided for them “exceedingly, abundantly and above” what they asked of him. To illustrate her point, she reflected on several examples of God’s generous presence and blessing on her work. When she was a young doctor assisting a 16-year-old woman who was alone, afraid and about to give birth, Dr. Chamberlain-Froese did not know how to provide comfort to her patient and she pleaded with God to relieve the young woman’s suffering. She heard God say, “Your hands are my hands, your voice, my voice” and she felt peace. God provided exceedingly more than what she asked.

Graduation is also a time to recognize the work of several students for their accomplishments. Justin Eisinga was awarded the Faculty Award, given to the student who best exemplifies academic excellence, Christian leadership, and active participation in the life of Redeemer. During his time at Redeemer, Justin was involved in many volunteer activities, was an advocate for social justice, and was actively engaged with civic life. Most notably, he worked to have Redeemer better served by Hamilton’s transit system.

John Platt received the Governor General’s Silver Award for achieving the highest academic standing at Redeemer.

Redeemer University College congratulates all of its graduates for their accomplishments during their time here, and thanks them for sharing their gifts and talents with this community. We wish them God’s richest blessings as they move to the next stage of their lives.

More photos can be viewed in the Graduation album on Redeemer’s Alumni Group on Facebook: Graduation 2015 Album.