Speaking during her sermon at ETSS's annual commencement ceremony May 15, the Presiding Bishop reflected on her recent visit to the Diocese of Honduras and pointed to Hondurans' evangelism and mission in action programs as exemplary models for graduates to emulate. From the multi-program ministry of Siempre Unidos to the HIV-positive in San Pedro Sula to training residents of remote mountain areas how to ensure clean water, adequate sanitation and easy-to-maintain houses, the diocese has a foundational belief, she said. "All people are capable and have gifts and talents to contribute."

Jefferts Schori lauded the Rt. Rev. Lloyd Allen, first native-born Honduran bishop, President of Province 9 and 1989 Seminary of the Southwest graduate, for fostering many mission initiatives that have "Yes, we can" as their driving force.

Although the ministries of seminary graduates will take place in different contexts, "our primary task may be to help others discover and name the good gifts God has already given. That is a ministry of blessing," she said. All are called to build up "the reign of God" by the Baptismal Covenant.

Twenty-four seminarians from 16 dioceses and Pakistan received Master of Divinity degrees. Nine lay persons received Master of Arts, pastoral ministry or counseling degrees and two other people received one-year certificates. Episcopalians and members of four other faith traditions make up the Class of 2007.

Detailed information about the seminary's Commencement, including the Presiding Bishop's sermon, is available at http://www.etss.edu/Comm07.shtml

Jefferts Schori was among five people receiving honorary doctoral degrees at the seminary Commencement. "With admiration for the strength and openness you have shown as our Presiding Bishop, we formally welcome you into the seminary [former Presiding Bishop] John Hines founded a few years before you were born," read the citation accompanying her honorary degree.

It marked the first time Jefferts Schori had preached at an Episcopal seminary's commencement and received an honorary degree since being elected Presiding Bishop in June 2006.

Three laymen were honored with doctor of humane letters degrees -- James Avery, master designer, jeweler and precious metal craftsman from Kerrville, Texas; O. V. Bennett, Jr., decades-long supporter of many schools, arts and other community groups in his hometown of Austin, Texas; and Malcolm Deisenroth, eminent lay leader in the Diocese of Oklahoma and the wider church from Tulsa, Oklahoma.

The seminary community surprised the Very Rev. Philip Turner, interim dean for the past two academic years, with an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree after all other degrees were conferred. Turner, who hands over seminary leadership to Dean-elect Doug Travis on June 1, was cited for his "abilities as a thoughtful listener and experienced seminary leader who consistently shows an abiding respect and appreciation for every person."