Oxford High School graduates were treated to a special night before receiving their diploma during the Senior Baccalaureate Ceremony on June 2.
‘You have looked forward to this time for so long and it’s finally here,? said Kathy Galbraith, Coordinator of Youth Ministry at St. Joseph Catholic Church. ‘Over the next few weeks I encourage you to take it all in.?
Galbraith shared a memory about Sunday nights with her family ? there was popcorn and movies, with the Wizard of Oz showing at least once a year.
As she prepared for the night it occurred to her the graduates were the four traveling along the yellow brick road.
‘They were on a search for something they felt was missing from their lives,? said Galbraith. ? In the end they learned courage, wisdom and love were all gifts that existed within and were available to them once they opened up.
‘How true this is – God has blessed each one of us with each one of these gifts. But unless you open your heart and your mind, we too will find ourselves searching like the lion, scarecrow and tin man.?
Dr. William Skilling, Oxford Community Schools Superintendent admitted to the graduates he was more nervous to talk to the graduates than he has felt in front of any other audience, but felt honored to talk about God and his teachings.
Skilling helped the graduates prepare for the next chapter by sharing steps.
‘No matter what you do, nothing will change your relationship with God,? he said, urging graduates to face each challenge ahead of them.
Seniors Kate McQuarter and Alivia Polermo and Sophomore Mallory Skilling shared their voices during the ceremony by singing a few songs.
Seniors Bridgette Schultz and Brianna Pastewski shared a piece entitled The Hands of Time. Michael Nelson spoke on the behalf of the seniors and thanked parents, family and adults for their support and love through the years.
The night concluded with inspirational quotes and a closing prayer from Larry Hayward, Associate Pastor at Christ the King Church.
‘It is my hope as you travel down the yellow brick road, you use the gifts God has given you to be a positive impact to those you meet,? said Galbraith. ‘At the end of day, I hope you will click your heels just like Dorothy and remember there is no place like home. Home is the place you go to remember and celebrate the real you.?