By Brandon Johnson
Contributing Writer
The sanctuary of Mt. Erie Baptist Church was full of proud family members this past Thursday, June 12th, as the Mt. Erie Christian Academy graduated its 6th grade class of 2014.
With the goal of “providing a Bible-based education that is communicated through principles and methods consistent with our philosophy and mission,” Mt. Erie Christian Academy has been educating youth from 6 weeks to the 6th grade since 1983. “We strive to provide every student with a strong foundation so that each student can grow academically, physically, and spiritually,” according to their site.
This year, Faipule L Eli, Imani S. James, Steve Stinson and DaRhon Yarbrough experienced an exceptional send off through a heartfelt graduation ceremony at the church they grew up in surrounded by loved ones and their church family.
Before certificates were given out, each lower grade class made special presentations of song, poetry or tribute to the graduating class and a keynote address was delivered by former student from the class of 2005, Kayla George. She spoke on her memories of her time at the academy as well as what to expect in the next stages of education and life. The graduates were all laughs as they reminisced and watched a slideshow of their time at the academy. But those laughs soon turned to tears as they gave their farewell speeches to the school, faculty and family that they’d known for the last 8-12 years.
“We are focused on developing the person” says Rev. Wells in his closing remarks. And this statement rang true as each graduated gave thanks to their pastor and teachers, shared their favorite bible verses, said so long to their friends and shared the importance that Mt. Erie has had in their lives.
Photography by Brandon Johnson:
