World Mission University 2026 Commencement. ©World Mission University
World Mission University (President Dr. Sung Jin Lim) held its 35th Commencement on June 6 at 1:00 PM at Saenuri Church in Southern California. A total of 113 graduates received their degrees at this year’s ceremony, including 61 Bachelor’s, 38 Master’s, and 14 Doctoral degrees. Moderated by Vice President Dr. Yoon Jung Choi, the ceremony proceeded with the processional of the faculty and graduates, followed by the conferral of degrees, the presidential address, congratulatory remarks, and the valedictory address.
“The Mission to Translate the Bible into the Language of This Generation”
President Dr. Sung Jin Lim reminded the graduates of their mission to translate the Bible into the language of the contemporary era, drawing inspiration from Cameron Townsend, who sparked the modern Bible translation movement in the early 20th century.
“Today’s world is filled with anxiety, chaos, and fear, and many are thirsting for the meaning of life and eternal life,” President Lim stated. “The world is still starving for the Word of God and seeking the unshakable truth. You are the very people called to deliver that truth.”
He further urged, “Cameron Townsend discovered his life’s mission through a profound question about the need to translate the Bible into indigenous languages. I hope you will also solidify the vision God has given you and live as the Cameron Townsends of today.”
“Servants Crafted as Earthen Vessels”
Offering words of congratulations, Dr. Oscar Merlo, a professor at Fuller Theological Seminary, emphasized the identity of being “earthen vessels” and shared four key exhortations with the graduates.
“The treasure within us is Jesus Christ, and His power is manifested through our weaknesses,” Dr. Merlo said. First, he exhorted, “Discern the voice of God from the noise of the world, using Scripture as your standard.”
He continued, “Do not let your learning stop at intellectual knowledge; become ministers who truly feel the hearts of others. I hope your education does not harden your hearts, but rather keeps your tears flowing for the fields of ministry.”
Furthermore, he highlighted the attitude of service, saying, “You are not called to elevate yourselves, but to serve as a bridge between truth and life, and between suffering and the Gospel.” Lastly, he urged the graduates to “learn to live a life fully dependent on the Holy Spirit.”
“WMU is a One-Body Community”
In her valedictory address, graduate Sorin Park (M.Div.) reflected on her time at WMU as a “one-body community.”
“Studying alongside fellow students from all corners of the world allowed us to share our lives and ministries,” Park shared. “Balancing academics, ministry, and childcare felt like warfare at times, but we were able to endure by empathizing with and supporting one another.”
She added, “WMU was not just a place for learning, but a profound journey of encountering God more deeply.”
