Mill Valley, Calif. -- Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary, located in five different regions, Pacific Northwest, Arizona, Colorado, Southern California, and Northern California -- where its main campus is, held commencement ceremonies at all five of its campuses throughout the month of May. Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary is a Cooperative Program Ministry of the Southern Baptist Convention.

11 degrees were presented at the commencement: certificate in Christian studies-seminary extension, diploma in Christian ministries, diploma in theology, master of music in church music, master of arts in worship leadership, master of arts in Christian education, master of arts in educational leadership, master of arts in theological studies, master of divinity, master of theology and doctor of ministry.

Chancellor William O. Crews, who spoke at all five ceremonies, told the graduates "it doesn't matter who you are, but who He is."

One example he used when he was speaking to the graduating class of 159 students was Joshua in the Old Testament.

"Joshua was a slave for most of his life, doing what others asked him to do. Good leaders are good followers,” Crews said, "You must admit your weakness and absolute need of God to be a successful leader."

Crews urged the graduates to "base their ministry on the Bible. I know you have been forced to read many books in your time in seminary, but do not neglect the wisdom contained in this most important of all books."

Crews then concluded his speech by challenging the graduates to say "yes" to the will of God just like how Joshua obeyed the words of God. "Joshua was willing go into the promised land when everyone around him was telling him not to go. Are you willing to go anywhere and do anything God wants you to do? Before you know the facts and are able to analyze the situation, are you willing to run blindly into God's will? If you do, God will put His hand on you and when He does you will be successful."

MIkko Sivonen, a Master of Divinity graduate, receives award for outstanding leadership from Chancellor William O. Crews at the May 28, 2004 commencement ceremony

11 degrees were presented at the commencement: certificate in Christian studies-seminary extension, diploma in Christian ministries, diploma in theology, master of music in church music, master of arts in worship leadership, master of arts in Christian education, master of arts in educational leadership, master of arts in theological studies, master of divinity, master of theology and doctor of ministry.

Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary is a Cooperative Program Ministry of the Southern Baptist Convention and operates five campuses in Northern California, Southern California, Pacific Northwest, Arizona and Colorado.