In our Gospel on this Solemnity of the Ascension, we hear Jesus give the Great Commissioning to his friends: “Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature.” Having formed and shaped his disciples during His earthly ministry, Jesus knows that they are ready for the next phase of their journey. He will ascend to the Father; they will go out into the world and make a difference by spreading the Good News and building up the Body of Christ. As I reflect upon this commissioning, our high school seniors immediately come to mind. They are preparing for graduation and getting ready for the next leg of their journeys. My heart swells with pride, as I think of the amazing accomplishments they have made during their high school years. I think back on the Confirmation classes, Teen Masses, service projects, mission trips, retreats, and VBS adventures that we have shared. They have made a remarkable impact on our parish family and, while I will miss them dearly next year, I know they are ready to go out into the world and make it a better place, by shining their light and sharing God’s love.
I asked a few of our graduating seniors to share their thoughts on this special time in their lives and on the journey that awaits them:
“I can’t believe that I am already a senior and soon to be high school graduate. It’s sad that everything is coming to a close, but I am grateful for the opportunity that I had to participate in St. Elizabeth’s CCD program, Teen Advisory Board, and Peer Leader group. I plan to continue to be active in various clubs and activities in college. One of the clubs that I will be involved in is the Christians on Campus club. I will be attending The Ohio State University where I will be studying Finance. I plan to bring God’s love into the world through being helpful to others, volunteering, and continuing to stay active in my church and community.”
~Derek Dougherty
“With graduation coming up, I can't thank the people of this parish enough for everything they have done for me. All of my CCD teachers, Father Stan, Shannon, and my family have guided me to receiving my sacraments and have helped shape me into the person I am today. In the fall I will be attending the University of New Hampshire and plan to stay involved in my religion. Even though I am sad to be leaving my hometown and my
parish, I am excited to get my feet wet in a different community. UNH has a parish 3 minutes away from campus where I will be able to still practice God's word and surround myself with others that have the same beliefs. I hope to still help out in the community and go on more mission trips just like I have at St. Elizabeth’s. I would like to wish all the other graduates the best of luck, and a big thank you to St Elizabeth’s.”
~Colleen Tonczos
“As I enter adulthood and take on new challenges out in the world, it is true to say that I will miss seeing all the lovely smiles and people of this parish. This community has helped me mature and grow into the strong young woman I am today. I have grown confident when I speak and have loved being a lector for teen masses. I have learned leadership within the church by holding retreats, guiding the young people, and attending Mission trips. As a follower of God, I will bring forth my experiences to others and share my knowledge. I cannot wait to spread love and continue the path God has laid out for me. I have learned to put my trust in God’s hand, and to connect to others who feel him too. I will be attending the United States Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut where I will spend 4 years training to become a Coast Guard Officer. After graduation, I will give back to this country and continue serving in the Coast Guard. Wherever I am, I will stay an active member and immerse myself in a new community where I can learn more about God’s endless love for us. I will always remember the kindness, respect, and welcoming love this parish has provided me.”
~Kira Hutchinson-Lundy
"My plans after high school include transferring to CCM to get my Hospitality degree. My plan after college is to become a flight attendant because I like to travel and help people. Helping people can help me to do God’s work and stay connected to God. Keeping my faith in God will make me become a better Christian and help other people to follow in His footsteps."
~Lea Hutchinson-Lundy
Let’s pray for all of our graduates:
Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of all graduates. Over the years, we have watched these students grow in knowledge, wisdom, and determination. We applaud their hard work and commend them for the impact that they have had on our parish community.
Now, as they prepare for the next stage of their journeys, we ask for Your continued blessings upon these young men and women. May Your Word be a lamp to their feet and a light for their path, as they go forth as disciples to make the world a better place. Replace any fears with the confidence of knowing that Your Hand is guiding and protecting them. By Your grace, may they continue to grow in wisdom and virtue. Help them to be the salt of the earth and light of the world, as they use their gifts and talents to bring glory to Your name and shine brightly to overcome any darkness. May they always live in Your love and share that love with all whom they encounter.