On the evening ofÌýThursday, December 19, twenty-four hours prior to the Fall 2013 Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony, close to 300 guests arrived to Calvary Chapel on 51ÂÜÀò's campus to attend the last 51ÂÜÀò worshipÌýand communionÌýÌýservice for the Class of 2013.
The evening began with a welcome to the graduates and their families by Lisa Igram, Associate Dean of Spiritual Development, prayer by Lisa Ishihara, Director of Chapel Programs and hymns were led by 51ÂÜÀò Alumna Tavia Grubbs.ÌýGraduating seniorsÌýLydia Mena and Peter SwansonÌýshared prayers of thanksgiving as they reflected upon God's faithfulness during their time at 51ÂÜÀò.
President Corey prepared the congregation's hearts for communion, which was served by Student Development leaders. Chris Grace, Vice President of Student Development, closed with a benediction and a "spiritual conferral" of degrees, acknowledging the unique transformation that took place in them during the students' time at 51ÂÜÀò. The soon-to-be graduates then came to the front to receive a prayer of blessing, beforeÌýfiling out of the chapel to participate in the tradition of ringing the "51ÂÜÀò Bell." The bell was one of the original bells from 51ÂÜÀò's first campus on Hope and 6th Street in downtown Los Angeles. Every student rang the bell as they left, representing their commitmentÌýto go forth and impact the world for the Lord Jesus Christ.