The following litany, written by University Minister Matthew Kerlin, was used at the Sept. 9 dedication ceremony for Samford University’s new College of Health Sciences facilities.

“Four Schools, One Calling” 

The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s hunger meet. 

We are called. 

Heavenly Father, we honor you today as the source of life and health, the one who gives every good and perfect gift, the one who heals and restores, the one who brings hope and executes justice, the one who has taught us to love you and our neighbors with heart, soul, mind and strength. 

We thank you for calling us to this place . . .

                to study and learn in a beautiful space

                to grow, mature and prepare ourselves

                to face challenges that test our minds and our faith

                to increase in knowledge and wisdom

                to make the world a better place.

We acknowledge that we are called . . .

                to be your people

                to do your work

                to love the Lord our God

                to love our neighbors

                to do your will on earth as it is in heaven.

We ask for your strength and mercy to live out our calling . . .

                as students

                as health professionals in training

                as college professors, instructors and administrators

                as followers of Christ committed to the health of our communities

                as friends, coworkers and colleagues .

We honor you today. 

We thank you today. 

Remind us today that we are called. 

Let us never forget that we are called. 

Let us not forget that the place you call us to is the place where our deep gladness and the world’s hunger meet.

In the name of Christ we pray.

Amen.