For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC) gathered in person for its 2026 Consecration Service on May 15, 2026, marking a deeply meaningful moment for graduands, faculty, staff, alumni, and families. This Consecration service blended celebration, worship, reflection, and challenge as the graduating Class of 2026 prepared to transition into the next phase of their lives.
The fellowship inside USC’s auditorium was filled with gratitude and anticipation as graduating students officially commenced the graduation weekend with the Consecration Service, celebrating not only their academic accomplishments, but also the resilience, faith, and perseverance that carried them through years marked by uncertainty, anxiety and change. The evening featured soul-stirring worship through music by the USC Women’s Chorus and the University Concert Band, whose performances added a spirit of reverence and celebration to the occasion, setting the tone for the evening as the fellowship opened up the Sabbath together.
The highlight of the night was the keynote address delivered by Dr. David McKenzie, Executive Secretary of the Atlantic Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, whose sermonette entitled “God Will Show Up” challenged graduands to trust God through every stage of life. Drawing from Joshua 5, Dr. McKenzie reminded graduands that obstacles and pressures are often part of the preparation process for purpose and growth. Reflecting on his own experience as a former student of Caribbean Union College, now USC, he shared personal stories of hardship, sacrifice, and perseverance while pursuing his education, encouraging graduands not to define themselves by difficult circumstances.
“Don’t judge yourself by what you went through. Know that God has something in store for you.” He stated.
Dr. McKenzie emphasized that the pressures and challenges graduands would face beyond university were not barriers to success, but opportunities for growth and preparation. Using the story of Joshua and Jericho, he reminded graduands that God remains present in every stage of life and purpose even when they do not notice.
“The same God who showed up for you in your academic journey will show up for you in your season of execution.”
His message resonated strongly throughout the auditorium as graduands were encouraged to remain spiritually connected and grounded in faith while navigating future careers, leadership opportunities, and personal responsibilities. The sermonette also highlighted the importance of prayer, resilience, and dependence on God when facing life’s uncertainties.
There was a moment in the evening where acknowledgement and gratitude was given to the support systems that helped the graduands reach this milestone. Parents, guardians, faculty, and friends were recognized for the encouragement and sacrifices they made throughout the students’ educational journeys. The service also reflected USC’s continued emphasis on holistic education, one that combines academic excellence with spiritual development and service.
Following this, USC President Dr. Colwick Wilson reinforced that message during the consecration prayer, offering words of blessing and dedication over the graduating class as they prepared to leave the university and enter the next stage of life.
Dr. Wilson prayed, “Wherever you place them, let them shine for you. Wherever you plant them, let them grow for you.”
The service concluded with a collective prayer of consecration for the Class of 2026, symbolizing not only the completion of an academic journey, but the beginning of a new season of purpose and service to the world beyond. As USC continues toward its centennial celebrations, the return of the in-person Consecration Service stood as a meaningful reminder of community, faith, and the enduring spirit of the university.
