Wilmington College President Trevor Bates shared a quote from Mother Teresa while presenting the message, “My Vision for a Quaker College,” at Cincinnati Friends meeting last Sunday, Jan. 29. “We cannot do great things; only small things with great love.”

Bates led a contingent of WC administrators, faculty, alumni and friends of the College to the Quaker church whose minister is Jim Newby, husband of WC Trustee Elizabeth Newby.

Cincinnati Friends is a semi-programmed Quaker meeting, which means the pastor might offer a brief message at beginning of the service and the rest of the hour is spent together in silent, open worship with parishioners listening for the still voice of God to lead them to speak or even request a hymn. Speaking out the silence facilitates a shared ministry that fosters growth in both spirit and community.

On this Sunday, a musical message must have been on the mind of many, as a trio of Wilmington College persons delighted the meeting with music from pianist Dr. Brianna Matzke, associate professor of music, and vocal solos from alumna Brandi James and Kevin Thomas, a friend of the College and spouse of another WC attendee, Dr. Kenn Patterson, vice president/chief academic officer. Angela Griffin, vice president for marketing and enrollment management, rounded out the College group.

Bates said he is committed to the vision that Wilmington College is a place of hope, forgiveness, reflection, growth, transformation, inclusion (“not simply invitation”) and integrity — “and a place where people are touched by God.”

Bates said the future of Wilmington College can be bright and full of success as the institution prepares, educates and inspires its students for lives of service and success.

“History has shown us that our opportunities are great, but we must not be blind to or broken by the challenges that will come,” he said. Bates quoted a favorite Biblical passage, Romans 8:28, “All things work together for the good of those who love the lord and are called according to his purpose.”