By JENNA RHUDE
Moapa Valley Progress
The Moapa Valley High School graduating class of 2019 gathered on Sunday evening at the Lake Mead Baptist Church in Overton for the traditional baccalaureate service. The students and their families gathered in Overton to participate in a non denominational religious service meant to equip and inspire them as they graduate and being their next steps in life.
The tradition of gathering together as classmates is something that the senior class participates in each year. Each of the various churches in town take a turn in hosting the year’s senior class. This year the Lake Mead Baptist Church hosted the event, under the direction of Pastor Scott Adams and Youth Ministry Pastor Mitchell Tobler.
The program began with a processional of Seniors entering the Church’s sanctuary to the sounds of Pomp and Circumstance played by Marianne Adams on the piano. As per tradition many colorful hats worn by the female students dotted the audience.
The message for the evening was given by Tobler. In his sermon, Tobler asked the graduating class what they felt was the most important subject they had studied in school. When no one ventured a reply, Tobler said he believed it was history.
“When most people think of history, they think of people and things from the past that are recorded in dusty old books,” Tobler said. “But the truth is, history is so much more than that. History, if you appreciate it, is a window on this world and at the same time a very different world all together. Real history you encounter people, real people who lived on this exact earth, yet who thought in very different ways. They were posed with the same questions and situations you are today.”
Tobler continued by relating some particularly relevant history from the Bible. He read from the 10th chapter of St. Mark where Jesus told his disciples that whoever would be greatest among them should be the servant of all. Tobler focused on what an unusual idea this was in its time, as well as in today’s world. He encouraged the students to seek to serve others rather than merely thinking of aggrandizing themselves.
“Our culture seems to tell us that the more money you have and the more toys you have when you die is who wins,” Tobler said. “Rather than thinking that way, live a selfless life. Don’t think in a self-serving way. Jesus changed the world in his short 33 years. He changed history forever.”
As the first of several gatherings at the end of their high school career, the senior class of 2019 felt the impact of their impending graduation as they heard the words spoken to them. Smiles and hugs were given as the kids gathered outside the church building for photos and chatting.
Special thanks and recognition was given by Senior Class President Maliyah Totten to the Lake Mead Baptist Church and the MVHS administration.
Pastor Adams was the last to address the group. He talked about his appreciation for this senior class. This year was all the more personal as he also has a daughter graduating, he said. Adams spoke of how excited he is for this senior class and how he hopes they all stay safe and have a great life ahead.
