Kingdom Life Ministries Bible Institute celebrated its first commencement on Monday, June 27, at Healing Fountain Macedonia Church.

The institute was founded in 2012 by Dr. Joyce Myrick Wooden, the chancellor and an instructor at the school.

Wooden and her staff, Pastor Joan E. Gray, assistant dean/instructor; Apostle Linda F. Riddick, chaplain/instructor; and Bishop Dr. Robert J. Branch, trustee/instructor, led seven students to graduation, receiving their diplomas and associate degrees, along with two faculty members who received their master’s degree. All of the degrees were in Biblical studies.

Master of ceremony was KLMBI’s Director of Finance and current bachelor’s degree student, Bishop Bernard M. Mann. Music was provided by Victory Temple Baptist Church and Sister Hope Melton.

The commencement address came from Dr. Linwood Boone. His message reminded the graduates of the great sacrifices their ancestors made to be educated, and he charged the graduates to make good use of the education and information they have received. Special recognition awards were given to students and staff including academic, perfect attendance and service awards.

Orientation and early registration for the 2016-2017 school year is July 18 at 6:30 p.m. at the institute’s headquarters, In God We Trust Ministries, 905 Freeney Ave., Suffolk. Classes will start on Aug. 1. For more information or an appointment with the chancellor, contact the executive secretary, Carol B. Morgan, at 809-1814 or cabmorgan71@gmail.com.