Remembering Nelson Mandela (1918-2013)

Photo Credit: Forbes.com

Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary wishes to express its sympathy as we weep with the family of Nelson Mandela during this time of bereavement. The world has lost one of its iconic, great leaders. As we anticipate the state funeral and the last traditional ceremony that will lay him to his final rest, the seminary community takes this moment to publicly express our gratitude for the remarkable life of this servant leader.

Mandela embodied the transformative power that comes from loving one’s enemies and praying for one’s persecutors.  His deep commitment to reconciliation and to the justice of equal opportunity for all renews and inspires our determination to prepare bold, spiritual leaders for the church, the academy, and the world.  We look to the life of Nelson Mandela and to his almost inconceivable acts of reconciliation for insight into our pursuit of equipping graduates who will also “bring good news to the oppressed; who will proclaim liberty to the captives and release to the prisoners.” The life of Nelson Mandela makes us believe it is possible to so live with a spirit of forgiveness that wellness and wholeness within the world community may, indeed, become a reality.

Blessed is this peacemaker, for surely he shall be called a child of God.