(opens in a new tab)Highlights of the annual Graduation and Scholarship Award Sunday June 28 at L.A.’s Church of the Advent (opens in a new tab) included hearing progress reports from students currently enrolled in college who together received some $8,000 in parish support.
— Sachi Hiromura is a rising sophomore at Santa Clara University majoring in environmental science.
— Nia Mabowe has finished her first year at Columbia University double-majoring in neuroscience and African American studies.
— Jonah Mackenzie has completed his second year at Syracuse University majoring in aerospace engineering.
— Sibongiseni Vilakazi is attending Cal-State San Bernardino majoring in computer science.
— Brittanye Joseph expects to graduate in 2027 from Prarie View A&M University in Texas where she is majoring in physicology and minoring in social work.
Advent’s rector, the Rev. Vanessa Mackenzie, led the congregation in celebrating the students and their accomplishments. Also recognized were graduating college students Aeisha Cooper and Jacqueline Yapkowitz; high-school senior Sunaia Jacques; middle-school grads Jayden Myers and Malia Reynolds; and Julia Yapkowitz, who has completed elementary school.
Senior Warden Joane Punch, a veteran educator, presented the honors which included the Women of Advent Extended Academic Scholarship and Academic Excellence Award, the Men of Advent Scholarship, the Shirley Smith Memorial Academic Award, the Jonathan Mahlanza Memorial Scholarship, and the Bishop Edward and Sylvia Mackenzie Memorial Award.
The morning’s service opened with prayers and lighting an altar candle for the people of Venezuela affected by the devastating twin earthquakes on June 24.
The sermon, offered by diocesan Canon for Common Life Bob Williams, focused on the work of Neighborhood Youth Association (NYA), a 130-year-old diocesan institution specializing in 100% college placement of students overcoming socioeconomic challenges. Williams, who is president/CEO of NYA, expressed his appreciation for the warm Advent welcome and certificates, presented on the occasion of his upcoming retirement, from L.A. City Councilmember Heather Hutt, L.A. County Supervisor Holly Mitchell, and the parish.
Advent clergy and lay leaders, who raise all funds for the scholarships awarded, said they look forward to collaborating with NYA in support of future initiatives and ongoing program.
The parish scholarship program is a longstanding ministry of congregation, which was founded in 1921 and has included numerous notable members, including the late vocalist Nat King Cole.
The service was followed by a celebratory luncheon during which attendees also watched the afternoon’s World Cup match between Canada and South Africa, home country of many Advent members.
Editor signs off, marks advent of new ventures
by Bob Williams
Sunday morning’s service at L.A.’s historic Church of the Advent (opens in a new tab) on June 28 was a joyful celebration of new ventures for Class of 2026 graduates and college scholarship recipients. It was also a very meaningful time for me personally as the parish welcomed me to speak about the 100% college placement work of Neighborhood Youth Association (opens in a new tab), a diocesan institution where I will spend more time after retiring Aug. 1 from diocesan staff, which I first joined 40 years ago.
I am deeply grateful to Advent’s rector, the Rev. Vanessa Mackenzie, and parishioners for this honor, a wonderful way to mark this milestone. With gratitude for decades of collaboration, I also thank my colleagues: The Rev. Canon Pat McCaughan, who continues as news editor; Canon Janet Kawamoto, editor emerita; and Mostyn Trudinger-Smith, who, with this issue, concludes his tenure as managing editor and diocesan communications coordinator. Together we thank Bishop John Harvey Taylor for greatly enhancing The News with his expertise as a longtime journalist, and we look forward to the new ministry of our incoming bishop, Antonio José Gallardo L., and his vision for the diocese including strong communication.
Looking ahead I will be glad to share writing from my ongoing work as the diocese’s appointed historiographer-archivist, inspired by friends and congregations, and with special thanks for the kindness of the Church of the Advent as new ventures await.
