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May 14, 2018
By Tanya Connor | The Catholic Free Press
WORCESTER – A bishop popular on social media offered the “key to happiness” at Assumption College’s 101st commencement Sunday at the DCU Center: “To be filled with God is to be emptied out. … To have God in you is equivalent to making your life a gift.”
Bishop Robert E. Barron, auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, was giving the commencement address. Human beings were made for God, he noted. When they forget that, they fall into some sort of addiction. He challenged listeners “consistently choose the theo-drama over the ego-drama,” having God, rather than self, as writer and director in one’s life.
Salutatorian Noor Elias Kawmi introduced Bishop Barron, the host of the documentary series “Catholicism,” as one who seeks to reach those claiming no religious affiliation and has tens of thousands of social media followers.
Bishop Barron received an honorary degree, along with Judith S. Beck, an author renowned in the field of cognitive behavioral therapy, and John Agresto, who has promoted the value of a liberal arts education here and in Iraq.
The college awarded 406 bachelor’s degrees, 180 master’s degrees and certificates and 31 continuing and career education degrees.
Valedictorian Raysa Guerrero asked fellow graduations to be grateful for failures they’ve learned from; for the ability to think critically and for their support systems, and to express that gratitude by being a spark for another person.
President Francesco C. Cesareo recalled the college’s mission statement about forming graduates known for critical intelligence, thoughtful citizenship and compassionate service. He said the motto, “Until Christ be formed in you” is what the Assumptionists’ founder, Father Emmanuel d’Alzon, proposed as the aim of education.
“Do not be afraid to be instruments of God’s love,” engaging the culture and faithfully “living out your vocation,” he said.
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