In ancient France, the foot soldiers in the army were called "bas chevaliers," or in the common vernacular "bacheliers." Once these men had been tested in battle, they received the honored title of "baccalarius," one who had struggled in battle and had emerged victorious. Later, this term would be used in the academic world. The "baccalaurius" would be one who had struggled, been tested, and deemed worthy of receiving the "bacca laureus," the crown of achievement, the laurel berry crown of victory.
In ancient times and in not-so-ancient-times, education, religion and government were partners; they supported each other. Schools were supported and operated by the Church. The curriculum was designed to provide a solid foundation for a person's life and to produce a well-rounded personality. The governing class encouraged education and supported religion. Both government and religion were thought to be important and necessary for living a well-balanced life. The Church and the schools contributed to the welfare of the government, for good government was believed to contribute to the well-being of the whole society.
In more modern times, education, religion and government are separated by walls of difference and indifference and we are left with the remnants from the past.
GRADUATION is (l) the process of receiving from the school authorities a diploma or degree for completing a prescribed Course of Study, and (2) the ceremony at which diplomas and degrees are conferred upon these students who have completed the Course of Study. Graduation ceremonies were first held by European universities during the Middle Ages. American universities and high schools still practice many of these older educational customs. BACCALAUREATE is a religious service held at an educational institution. Baccalaureate is usually observed on the Sunday prior to Commencement Day. Usually a clergyperson from the community delivers the Baccalaureate message.
COMMENCEMENT is a program sponsored by the high school or university. At this time degrees are conferred and diplomas are given to the graduating students.
As we come to the season of Graduation, it would be well for us to remember that life is a complete package. Education, Religion and Government are all vital parts of the package we call life. Our attempts to divide life into neat compartments, to separate education, religion and government will only diminish life and cause us frustration. Life works better when we accept the importance of each part, put each part in its proper place, and understand how each part contributes to the wholeness of life.
SO, here's to the graduates! Here's to the well-rounded life! Here's to the life God created and gives us each day as a gift!
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Dr. Don Kuehle is a retired United Methodist minister who lives in Jackson, Mo. Opinions are those of the author.
Religion on 05/18/2016