Eighth Grade Graduation

I'll admit a bias here that St. Ignatius Loyola School knows how to put on an impressive and moving graduation service. I have sat through way too many ineffective and poorly delivered speeches. There were none here. Each speaker was brief and moving...not easy to do. The graduates were lovely and handsome and appropriately attired. These young graduates were graceful, proud, sad and happy. The Mass was everything it was supposed to be, and more. Most of the graduates are moving on to Holy Name, while others will go to Wyomissing, Wilson, Conrad Weiser or elsewhere. All have a bond with each other that will be fondly remembered. This group truly loved and respected their teachers. The faculty was absolutely beaming. Most of the parents shed a few tears.

Elena wore a beautiful periwinkle blue dress with a sparkly design. She wore her pearl necklace and earrings from her godfathers. Her new haircut makes her look so much older, which is important to her. She got her diploma! YAY! She also won two awards...another safety patrol award...(this one from the school) and a surprise...she got the Citizenship Award from Senator Michael O'Pake for the second year in a row!!!! (Hear those buttons busting?)

The spiritual element was so evident during the graduation. Our church was dressed up for her Pentecost birthday, streamers from the crucifix in front to the pillars in the back...banners decorated with the gifts of the Holy Spirit...you get the magnificent picture. The music was well planned and performed, and moving as always. I am so blessed to be here in this parish with its people and its holy monsignor. I truly believe God brought me here because it's exactly what I need.

The reception was great, too...as always, the women of our parish know how to put out a beautiful and tasty spread. Pictures of all kinds were taken, thanks and congratulations were shared. We got home so late that little Tony was allowed to sleep an extra hour and arrive at school at 9 instead of at 8.

I suppose I could spend money on lots of things: a new or newer car, a Disney or European vacation, clothing, electronic gadgets, investments for the future. I'd rather spend my money on fabulous educations for my kids where they are spiritually guided to the right path; where they are truly loved and appreciated for the little wonders that they are...

Thank you, St. Ignatius Loyola School. God bless all the children who pass through its halls.