| For Immediate Release Date: Tuesday, May 10, 2026 Columbia, S.C.—Cherry Hill Seminary honored eleven new graduates on Saturday, May 9 at the Spring Commencement. Selina Rifkin received her Master of Divinity in Ministry, Advocacy and Leadership. Selina began her Seminary journey in 2008, took a several-year break, then returned to complete the degree. Her thesis is entitled, “Seeking alternative religion: Leaving the culturally dominant religion for a Pagan, earth-based practice.” Board of Directors member Vanessa Hurst announced Meagan Fischer and Skyelar Peterson have received their Community Ministry Certificate (CMC). She also recognized Gabriel “Cap” Nix, an outstanding student who died this spring while working towards his CMC. Nix’s family and friends were present as Hurst shared about Cap’s talent and enthusiasm for serving others. Rev. Amy Beltaine recognized four individuals who have received their Spiritual Direction Certificate: Brenda Cole, Tamara Van Jacobs, Lawrence Lerner, and Matthew Ricke. The certification is earned through two years of immersive learning and praxis. To date, twenty-one students have earned their Spiritual Direction Certificate. Professor Diane Cacciato presented the Writing as a Spiritual Practice Certificate to Mena Strong, Chris Rothbauer, Diane Sontum, and (posthumously) Linda Slack. A collection of the class members’ writings (including Slack’s) will be published this year as Hypatia Dreaming: Volume II. Keynote speaker Robert Patrick, PhD noted in his remarks that we have “good trouble and good magic to work in this world . . . in this moment of human history, that is calling forth in this spot powerful presence, the will to take up the challenges of change, and courageous imagination.” Holli Emore, Executive Director, closed with an admonition to the graduates: “In such uncertain times, there is a critical need for those trained to weave connection and bring forth healing. All of us present charge each of our graduates to tend your light carefully, and to shine it fearlessly for those who might look to you.” A recording of the event may be viewed here. Cherry Hill Seminary is the leading provider of education and practical training in leadership, ministry, and personal growth in Pagan and Nature-Based spiritualities, by providing transformative education and empowering students to advance academically and lead spiritually.. https://cherryhillseminary.org/ Media contact for more information: chs@cherryhillseminary.org or 1-803-862-9088. |
