Syracuse UniversityChancellor Inauguration

Let us pray.

Fount of Wisdom and Light of Life, in this moment of new beginnings our hearts beat with the cadence of pride in our university and hope in its future. Beneath this sacred dome, we give thanks for the vision of faithful women and men who have guided our beloved institution over generations, devoting their lives and legacy to the creation of a great University on the hill.

On this historic day we celebrate their boldness of insight, their unswerving commitment to diversity and their dedication to human flourishing. We pray that we, too, might follow their footsteps.

Oh most gracious God, awaken us to the spirits of truth, beauty and hope alive and at work in the world.

Inspire us to push beyond the limits of our imagination, increasing our capacity for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Foster in us a gentle humility, mindful that our collective achievements are only as valuable as the ends to which we put them.

And send us forth as joyful servants for a better, more just world.

In our ongoing our pursuit of academic, intellectual, and spiritual excellence, may we ever strive to live in balance and harmony with each other and all living things.

And so now, standing on the precipice of possibility we look forward to a future of hope and we recommit ourselves to living out the highest purposes and most noble ideals enshrined since the founding of this University.

Amen.