This year, St. Joseph Catholic School graduated six eighth graders: Cale Batchman, Britton Dutton, Daniel Hammeke, Grant Klepper, Madisyn Schloctermeier, and Tyler Stuhlsatz.

During the final mass of the school year, Wednesday, May 15, Father Klein honored the graduates during his homily, "The Pew." During their conversation, Father asked the students what they were going to miss most about St. Joseph. Answers varied from lunch and Mr. Lashley, to mass. Father Klein followed this conversation by reminding the graduates that St. Joseph "exists so that you can learn that Jesus is the light of the world." 

Graduation was officially celebrated the following Sunday, May 19, at the 10:30 mass. Father addressed the graduates at the end of his homily: "We pray St. Joseph has given you the ability to wait and hope for the Lord... Our Jesus is to be trusted." Principal Marlene Clayton noted that the class was full of leaders: quiet, but deadly; bulls in the China closet; and classical spiritual leaders. She charged them to use their leadership skills to further their education and improve the community and the world.

Next, teacher Cami Thomas addressed the students, noting all of the things she would miss... even their orneriness! She told the graduates that St. Joseph has "planted the seed to bloom," and now it was their responsibility to nurture it. Her final instruction to the students was succinct: "It's up to you."

Congratulations St. Joseph Class of 2019! Join me in sending them into their future with the support and prayers of our parish community!