STUDENT SPEECH by Michael Achoki, Student Chaplain

Honorable Guest of Honor Dr. John Wega, Esteemed Prof. Gerishon Karika, Rev. priests and sisters, distinguished guests, proud family and friends and above all, my fellow graduating class of July 2025

Today marks a momentous occasion, a culmination of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. It is your honor to stand before you and celebrate this great achievement.

With deep humility and great joy, I stand before you on behalf of my fellow graduates, to express our heartfelt gratitude and share a few reflections as we mark the successful completion of our Clinical Pastoral Education journey CPE A1.

First and foremost, we thank God, the source of all wisdom and grace, for guiding us through this transformative path. Today is not just a celebration of certificates, but of growth in spiritual, emotional, and professional.

We reflect on the journey we’ve shared in Clinical Pastoral Education. We’ve walked together, learned together, and grown together in this transformative program. We’ve explored the complexities of human suffering, the importance of empathy and compassion, and the role of spirituality in healing. Through our coursework, group discussions, and clinical experiences, we’ve been shaped and broadened into compassionate, understanding and effective spiritual caregivers. As we look to the future, we are excited to serve humanity in various capacities, bringing hope, healing, and love.

To Prof. Gerishon, we express our deepest gratitude for his transformative guidance, unwavering support and mentorship throughout our CPE journey. His expertise, wisdom, and dedication have shaped us into compassionate and effective spiritual caregivers. We are forever grateful for his investment in our lives.

To the priests and sisters present, your spiritual guidance and support have been a source of comfort and strength to us. We appreciate your presence here today.

To our guest of honor, Dr. John Wega, we are honored to have you with us today. Your presence adds significance to this momentous occasion.

As we embark on this new chapter, let us remember the words of Mahatma Gandhi, education without character is among of seven social sins. There is always more to learn and discover, let us remain open to new experiences, challenges, and opportunities guided by values, principles, and faith.

In conclusion, I would like to say that this graduation is not just a celebration of academic achievement, but also a testament to the power of community, collaboration, and mutual support. Let us continue to support and uplift each other as we go our separate ways minding that People may forget what we say, they may forget what we do, but they will never forget how we make them feel. Hence Let us be remembered for making people feel seen, heard, and loved.

Congratulations to the graduating class. May God bless us and guide us as we embark on this new journey.

Thank you, and may God bless you all.