SCS grads urged to avoid fear and stay close to Jesus

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This article was published 28/06/2024 (387 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The 32 graduates from Steinbach Christian School heard messages urging them to avoid fear, trust God and continue to strengthen their faith.

Malachi Goertzen presented the valedictory address, cracking jokes about his fellow grads and former teachers.

He reiterated highlights of the year which included things like the ski trip, Timmies runs and spares.

He also expressed his confidence in his classmates.

“I see many bright futures and many new doors opening for my peers,” he said.

He admitted there is uncertainty when it comes to their future.

“We do not know for certain what lies ahead or where our path leads but I think that’s what makes it exciting,” he said. “We can trust in the Lord that He will guide us and have peace that He has a plan for us.”

Goertzen said following God’s path is where people can find freedom from fear.

“If we serve in freedom from fear then the SCS class of 2024 will leave a mark on the world that will glorify God and honour His name,” he said.

James Fast, who taught music and band for 15 years at Steinbach Christian School also offered graduates advice in his commencement address.

He told a story of his then three-year-old son Benjamin dropping a newly purchased donut at Tim Hortons, shattering his world.

“Graduates, I can guarantee that you will all drop donuts during the course of your life,” he said. “That maple dip languishing on the floor may be a job that you lose, that Boston cream that falls off of your plate may be a debilitating illness. In the years to come you will all face loss, uncertainty or times of danger.”

He said that he explained to his son that there were more donuts.

“Benjamin knew the heart of his earthly father and when I told him there were more donuts in the kitchen, he calmed himself because he trusted I would work in his best interest,” he said. “Yearn to know the heart of your heavenly father.”

He urged graduates to spend time reading the Bible, confess sins to God daily and love your neighbour.

He concluded by sharing challenges in his own life following each one of the eight examples with the same phrase. “Stay close to Jesus,” he said.

Steinbach Christian School also handed out many awards.

This year, twins Carlee Brandt and Corey Brandt won the varsity female and male athlete of the year awards.

Carlee Brandt would also make history, being only the fourth graduate since 1978 to win both the Governor General’s Bronze Medal based on the highest overall average in Grade 11 and 12 combined and the Timothy Award, SCS’s top award given to a student who exemplifies outstanding achievement in human development, spiritual, physical, academic and social.

Only three other students have won the pair of awards including Jordan Martens in 2015, KC Harder in 2014 and Michelle Penner in 1998.