Spring 2021 Bluefield College Commencement Program

COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER Reverend Garry Moore

Garry D. Moore was born in Lynchburg, Virginia, and graduated from Amherst County High School in 1976. Following graduation, he was granted the opportunity to join an international singing and educational organization, Up With People . Through this organization, he was afforded the opportunity to travel the world for three years visiting all continents except Australia, and every country except Afghanistan sharing his wonderful musical talent. One of his most memorable performances was at Super Bowl XIV in 1980 between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the former Los Angeles Rams in Pasadena, California. In 1993, Rev. Moore received his Bachelor of Science degree from Bluefield College, and his Master of Divinity from Virginia Union University, in 1997. Rev. Moore continued his education by matriculating at the University of California, San Diego. After attending four quarters at the University, he moved to Los Angeles and received his life-changing call into the Christian Ministry and was licensed to preach on Palm Sunday 1981, at the Second Benevolent Missionary Baptist Church. In 1982, Rev. Moore, moved back home to Lynchburg to continue his heart for ministry and was ordained to preach by Lovingston Baptist Church of Madison Heights, Virginia. He and his family then moved to West Virginia in 1990, to accept the call at Scott Street Baptist Church where he currently pastors. This year he is celebrating his 31st anniversary with the family of Scott Street Baptist Church. Rev. Moore is also a family and community oriented minister and truly believes in Dr. Martin Luther King’s vision about changing society for the better and instilling unity, love, and forgiveness in our communities. Dr. King inspired communities across our country to improve and make a difference for others. Rev Moore was presented the Dr. Martin Luther King Peace Award in Charleston, WV, in January 2017, by the MLK Statewide committee. In 2019, Bluefield College presented to Rev. Moore the Community Service and Justice Award, a true embodiment of the mission and values of the College.