A total of 151 students received their diplomas during the commencement ceremony at Martin Luther College Saturday.

NEW ULM — Martin Luther College formally graduated 151 students Saturday, following the commencement service on campus.

The Commencement sermon was given by MLC President Rich Gurgel on the theme “The saving hand of your God holds you fast.” The sermon text chosen by the graduating class was from Isaiah 41:10

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

In the commencement address, Gurgel advised the students not to look for attacks against them. He said, “If we try to stand against all that is against us by our own wisdom, strength, or our supposed greater righteousness, we will quickly find ourselves utterly defeated!”

The verse from Isaiah 41:10 is a prom ise with three parts.

Gurgel explained three promises the graduates could take with them.

“The first promise assures you that your life and ministry isn’t about your fortitude or courage,” he said. “It’s about the strength he freely gives you!”

The next promise is assurance help draws close to us with God’s aid and help.

Third, God promises strength and will protect his followers.

Gurgel summarized by saying the graduate’s nothing in creation can separate the graduates from the love of God.

“You have nothing to fear,” he said. “The saving hand of your God holds you fast.”

The spring degrees awarded included 37 pre-seminary Bachelor of Arts degrees or Seminary Certification; 114 Bachelor of Science in Education degrees (including 19 early childhood education); six Bachelor of Science degrees (including three staff ministry degrees and three educational studies degrees) and one seminary certification for Parish Staff Ministry.

In addition, 13 students received their Master of Science in Education degrees, seven students earned their Master of Science in Educational Administration degrees, and three received a Master of Arts in Theological Studies.