The Conception of God: A Philosophical Discussion Concerning the Nature of the Divine Idea as a Demonstrable Reality

Mr. President of the University, Regents, Faculties, Graduates and Undergraduate s, and Ladies and Gentlemen:

The members of the Union, to whose meeting it is my agreeable duty to welcome you all, regard this occasion with a glad elevation of mind. And I am sure that in the presence of this great assemblage, representative of every interest that is highest and noblest in the Commonwealth of California, and come together to express its sympathy with this evening’s intellectual and spiritual business, this gladness has not merely its excuse but its full justification. To the members of the Union the occasion is auspicious; it marks the beginning of fulfilment in a plan for some years cherished. This meeting is only the first in an intended series of similar assemblies; a series which we hope, perhaps somewhat fondly, may continue year after year as long as the University shall last. We hope that henceforward, at the season of each Commencement, some person of eminent attainments in philosophy will visit us, and address us upon some great theme of human concern, as our principal speaker is about to do to-night. And we are able to assure you that, in all probability, this hope will be realized at the next Commencement at least. Our next annual speaker has given us his definite acceptance, and we can assure you beforehand of his preeminent standing. Do you but second us in our undertaking, and we are certain of its permanent and successful continuance.