Graduation and retirement are special events for many each year. UCHMC has always recognized those special occasions with a ceremony and gifts, but it was only last year (2020) that the graduation program was moved outdoors along with the majority of all the church activity due to the pandemic. Several believe this decision to move the ceremony outdoors has been a welcomed addition. The once joyous event was previously held during the worship service on a 2nd or 5th Sunday. However, now the program has its own identity and time slot for Sunday evenings at 5pm. The event was recently held for the 2nd time outdoors on 6/13/2021. All of the graduates were honored to receive a bible. This is a treasured memento especially for those leaving home to attend college in hopes that it will remind them to take the Lord with them wherever they may go. It really does take a village to accomplish it all. Sister Jackie Deese organized the program, Sister Jamie Goins Strickland served as the emcee, Sister Vernena Oxendine recognized our recent military graduates, then Sister Catrina Deese read a graduation poem, and Bro. Bronnie Scott offered words of biblical inspiration to the graduates, retirees and families. Sister Diane Goins prepared nice gift bags and ladies of the church helped to serve cupcakes and punch for all in attendance. Let’s not forget our setup and break down crew who work tirelessly to arrange chairs, tables, sound equipment, etc. Great is their reward in Heaven! Rev. Chris Miller offered closing remarks and a prayer for the wellbeing and success of all the graduates from Pre-K to college and our retiree, Sis. Bobbie Scott with over 30 years of service to UNC-Pembroke. We look forward to many more delightful outdoor graduation ceremonies to come and pray for God’s hand of protection over each of you and your families.