On a day filled with joy, reflection, gratitude, and hope, Eden Theological Seminary celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2026 during its 176th Commencement Ceremony.
Family members, friends, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters gathered to honor a remarkable group of graduates who have spent years preparing themselves for lives of leadership, service, ministry, scholarship, and community transformation. As graduates crossed the stage, they carried with them not only degrees, but also a deep commitment to building a more just, compassionate, and hopeful world.
Commencement at Eden is always more than a ceremony.
It is a sacred moment that marks both an ending and a beginning.
Throughout their time at Eden, graduates have wrestled with challenging questions, expanded their understanding of faith and leadership, engaged diverse perspectives, and learned what it means to lead faithfully in a rapidly changing world. They now leave equipped to serve congregations, nonprofit organizations, community movements, educational institutions, and countless other spaces where courageous leadership is needed.
The ceremony featured inspiring words from faculty and leadership, reminding graduates that theological education is not simply about acquiring knowledge. It is about becoming people who are prepared to meet the moment, to listen deeply, act courageously, and serve with integrity.
Eden President Dr. Deborah Krause challenged graduates to embrace the 
responsibility and privilege of leadership in a world hungry for hope, justice, and compassion. Her remarks reflected Eden’s enduring commitment to preparing leaders who are grounded in faith while boldly engage in the realities of today’s world. Click to see her full speech.
Commencement speaker Dr. Henry Kuo offered wisdom and encouragement rooted in the transformative power of education, community, and lifelong learning. His message reminded graduates that leadership is not measured by 
titles or accomplishments alone, but by the ways we accompany others, seek truth, and contribute to the flourishing of our communities. Click to see his full speech.
As degrees were awarded, there was a shared sense of gratitude for the journeys that brought each graduate to this milestone. Many balanced coursework with careers, family responsibilities, ministry commitments, and service to their communities. Their perseverance and dedication are a testament to the strength of the Eden community.
The Class of 2026 now joins generations of Eden alumni who are serving throughout the world as pastors, chaplains, organizers, educators, nonprofit leaders, advocates, and change-makers. Their work will continue Eden’s legacy of radical hospitality, justice-centered leadership, and transformative ministry.
As we celebrate this year’s graduates, we are reminded that the future is shaped by people willing to answer the call.
Today, we celebrate those who have done just that.
Congratulations, Class of 2026.
The world needs your leadership. The church needs your voice. Our communities need your courage.
Go forth and continue meeting the moment.
