Olivet University Campuses Hold Convocation Ceremony, Dedicating the New Academic Year to God

September 20, 2024

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On September 20, 2024, Olivet University held convocation ceremonies across its campuses, marking the beginning of the 2024-2025 academic year with a dedication to God. Each ceremony, filled with worship, prayer, and inspiring messages, underscored the institution's commitment to its mission of biblical higher education.

At the Riverside Main Campus, OU President Dr. Jonathan Park delivered the convocation address, emphasizing the university's founding purpose: to glorify God. Reflecting on OU’s 20-year journey, Dr. Park encouraged students to embrace their calling and fully engage in the ministry training offered at the University. He stressed the importance of remaining true to the University’s mission, especially when many Christian institutions may have strayed from their foundational values.

Dr. Bethany Park, the director of OTCS English eCampus, offered an invocation prayer, seeking God’s guidance to ensure that OU remains a place where true knowledge is imparted, rooted in reverence for Him. She specifically prayed for the Holy Spirit to lead the university in raising workers for God's Kingdom.

At the San Francisco Campus, faculty and students gathered for the convocation ceremony in the chapel. Dr. Tom Cowley and Dr. Joseph Tallman delivered messages of congratulations, celebrating the community's shared commitment to education and faith. Dr. Joseph Lee, the Campus Director, delivered a compelling address encouraging students to "follow Jesus" and fulfill His holy calling, highlighting the privilege of being trained at Olivet University.

Meanwhile, students and faculty at OU St. Ann’s Campus in Saint Louis participated in their first convocation ceremony in the newly opened campus building. Campus Dean Dr. Martin Zhao delivered an impactful address, citing John 21:15-17 and Luke 17:20-21. He reminded students that studying at Olivet is about fulfilling God's Kingdom, which resides in the hearts of those who serve rather than dominate. Dr. Zhao’s message called for a transformation of hearts as the first step in changing the world. He shared that true transformation begins with knowing the love of our Lord Jesus Christ.

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (Proverbs 9:10). As OU campuses dedicated the new academic year to God during these convocation ceremonies, students and faculty were inspired to seek the knowledge of the Lord above all else and to approach the year with faithfulness and passion.

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