It happens the first Sunday of every fall semester at Judson College in Marion — Rose Sunday — and it occurred again for the 99th time Sept. 7.
Rose Sunday is the traditional start of the academic year and it was first celebrated Sept. 19, 1915. The event also symbolizes the close relationship between Judson and Siloam Baptist Church, Marion.
This year’s Rose Sunday preparations started Saturday with Judson students weaving ivy chains to show a strong bond of sisterhood. Later that afternoon, about 300 Marion Military Institute men and women cadets marched in full uniform to the college campus for a step-sing performance and picnic.
On Sunday festivities began on campus at 9 a.m. The students, with their families and friends, gathered in Jewett Hall for picture taking, serenading and exchanging well wishes. Underclassmen then lined the walkway holding woven ivy chains in honor of the senior class. The seniors, dressed in their academic caps and gowns and wearing Judson’s signature flower, the red rose, processed to Siloam Baptist led by Judson President David Potts.
At the Rose Sunday service at Siloam, as has been customary, Potts shared stories of the founders of the college. He concluded by recollecting his personal experiences with the man who employed him at the college, former Judson President N.H. McCrummen. McCrummen was inducted into the Alabama Men’s Hall of Fame on Sept. 23.
Siloam pastor John Nicholson offered words of welcome and presented the sermon. Music was provided by the Judson Singers and FAITH Ensemble, as well as solos by Camilla Horne, newly appointed head of the Music Department, and Judson student Katelyn Chastang. Musical accompaniment was provided by John Robertson, instructor of piano. Scott Bullard, vice president and academic dean, gave the invocation, and the benediction was given by Susan Jones, vice president and dean of students.
Following the church service lunch was served in Judson’s dining hall.
Judson was founded in 1838 and it is the state’s only college for women. It is nationally recognized as an institution of higher education committed to “the greater good.” For more information, visit www.judson.edu. (Judson)
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