Tradition as old as graduation itself was apart of this week’s schedule set for the seniors. This year’s Baccalaureate was hosted by the Italy Ministerial Alliance and held at the First United Methodist Church. Rev. Mittie Muse, pastor from Mt. Zion AME Church brought a message of change to the graduates.

After the seniors entered the sanctuary to the tune of Pomp & Circumstance, they took their seats in the choir loft and listened as guests delivered words of wisdom and advice. Baccalaureate, the service at which a sermon delivered to graduating seniors is given and there have been many.

School board member, Cheryl Owen, took a moment and welcomed the class of 2009 and remembered the “good ol’ days” with this class of seniors. “There are lots of memories with this class. Most of them were in my kindergarden class and then again in 5th grade. People like Tyler, Diamond, Becca, Shane, Jasmine, Angelica and Darren. I have a story for everyone of them. And now as they have grown up, they always have smiles and hugs for me when I see them. This is a good group of kids. I congratulate the parents and grand parents of these kids. They are lots of fun. This week think of all the things you want to do-what kind of person you want to become. I am proud to represent the board in welcoming you to your graduation,” Owen said.

Rev. Muse welcomed family and friends of the graduating class. “I am glad to be here as well and I have a few words of encouragement. High School is just the beginning. You are finding out who you are and it is time to encounter change. Phillipians 3:14 says, ‘I press on toward the goal to win the prize of which God has called me through Jesus Christ.’ God has already created a plan for you and you will take the little steps and changes to go forward. Phillipians 4:13 says, ‘I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me.’ Both of these scriptures go hand in hand. You must press forward in the direction you want. After graduation this coming Friday, there is a whole new world waiting out there for you. Change is for tomorrow because it’s coming. Start thinking about your own change and what you will do with it. Don’t lose focus on your plan. Remember, you don’t want to damage your future by being foolish today. Go to God and use His strength, not your own, when you are need. See the value of change for what it is. Remember these few words-Lots of change makes much sense, little change makes little sense, no change makes no sense.”

The 2009 graduating class received individual bibles presented by Rev. Todd Gray of Central Baptist and Rev. Eric Smith of First United Methodist, both men representing the Italy Ministerial Alliance.

The service was followed by a reception in the fellowship hall.