Graduation From High School

Honoring our church youth one evening in June 2012, was a highlight for a small group of beloved young individuals. They could realize how much they are loved as persons and admired for their achievement. Strings of lights decorated the hall and attractive drapes adorned the platform. Delightful music was being played. Graduates were dressed as we seldom see them; in business suits and graduation dresses. Upon introduction, each dignified graduate walked through an archway, then along the room’s length, to be recognized by all and given a welcoming ovation. A colorful program described each one, with the name of the school from which he or she had graduated and their plans for the future.


The occasion celebrated five years during which our young people spent in youth group, from grade eight until graduating from grade twelve. Their youth minister spoke about getting to know them and seeing them mature after grade seven when they entered youth group. They would either be entering the work force immediately, or continuing their education in technology or university. They were advised that although graduation from grade twelve is considered a commendable achievement, it must not be recognized as a total accomplishment. Rather, they are to see it as a continuation of preparing for their future. Until now, character, personality, wisdom and knowledge had developed as the foundation to build their futures and would continue to do so. Their solid Christian principles would be thoroughly tried as they moved into the world and away from guiding influences of their families. He admonished them to retain those Christlike characteristics as they made new friends. Their entire futures would depend upon solidarity of wise choices.


A well- prepared video of the students was enjoyed. Each graduate had been interviewed and asked about his or her plans for the future, besides being asked for an opinion on some subject. Most would be entering a distant college, and not be attending their church as before. One would go to seminary, another to a school of culinary arts, one to study paramedics in preparation for search and rescue, and another would become a nurse. Others had specific plans to prepare for employment, and it would involve years of continual study, probably more years of adapting to the work force afterwards. They could only anticipate arrival at the top of the mountain of success after years of diligent perseverance, just as their young pastor advised.


Those who attended this auspicious occasion cheerfully participated by responding to questions relevant to the graduates’ specific interests outside school. One loved to ride her motor scooter. Another was adept at skate boarding. Participating in sports was popular, while spending summers as camp councilors was another interest. After this interaction, everyone was invited to enjoy a fancy dessert prepared by devoted ladies of the church. From this well-planned evening, our graduates knew they were loved, respected and wished a successful future. I’m sure they knew the people of their church were confident that they would attain their goals and maintain their faith in God as their guide to success.