Last Graduation
In May 2014, I received an email from Rev. Carol Godley asking if I would photograph the National Spiritual Science Center’s upcoming graduation ceremony. Their regular photographer was unavailable, and they were looking for someone to document the event.
I was honored to accept the invitation.
As both a graduate of the National Spiritual Science Center and an ordained Spiritual Science minister, the opportunity held special meaning. NSSC had played an important role in my spiritual development, and photographing one of its final student ceremonies allowed me to contribute in a different way.
In a follow-up email, Rev. Godley explained:
“…… we don’t have a fourth-year class, we call the graduation a closing ceremony… Our 3rd year students will receive the Healer Certificate.”
The ceremony was held on June 8, 2014, at the Washington Ethical Society in Washington, D.C. Two third-year students received their Healer Certificates.
These graduates completed an intensive three-year course of study leading to certification in Spiritual Healing. Earning that certification required dedication, discipline, and years of study. For these students, graduation represented the culmination of a long journey and a commitment to serving others through healing.
NSSC was in a period of transition at the time of this closing ceremony. The existing board was preparing to step down, and new leadership was expected to guide the organization forward. While the future direction of the organization remained to be determined, the accomplishments of the graduates were the focus of the day.
At the time, I simply saw the assignment as an opportunity to serve. But like many photographers, I did not realize the long-term value those images would eventually hold.
Years later, when I founded the National Spiritual Science Center Historical Society (NSSCHS), those photos became part of the growing archive dedicated to preserving the history of Spiritual Science education in Washington, D.C.
I am grateful that Rev. Godley thought of me when the need arose. It allowed me to document a moment that would later become an important part of the historical record.
Interested in Spiritual Science? Follow our blog for more reflections on discernment, healing, and spiritual practice.
Need free distant healing or would like to learn more? Visit the Healing Request page.
Looking for a Spiritual Science minister? Visit the Minister Directory.
A Spiritual Science Reflection by Rev. Starlene Joyner Burns
President & Founder, National Spiritual Science Center Historical Society
If you like what you see, buy Rev. Burns a cup of tea.
Note: To help keep this space free of spam, comments are closed. If you’d like to respond, you’re welcome to contact us by email.