Young Adults

Deprived by the COVID-19 pandemic of their cap-and-gown traditions—the proud and stately walk to “Pomp and Circumstance,” the calling of the graduate’s name, the stroll across the stage to receive a handshake and a diploma as cameras flash and family members hoot and cheer—the Class of 2020 needed other means to put closure to their school careers and launch them into the next phase of life. They also needed a way to process their grief and disappointment. The ELCA’s Passage program helped connect grads for support, comfort and companionship. What can be learned from its success? Plenty.