St. Joseph Catholic High School congratulates 37 graduating seniors in the class of 2008

Intermountain Catholic

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Julio Merida receives his diploma and congratulations from the Most Reverend John C. Wester, Bishop of the Diocese of Salt Lake City and Norm Allred, principal of Saint Joseph Catholic High School. Merida will attend the University of Utah and received a Utah Achievement Scholarship.IC photos by Christine Young

OGDEN — "May God give these graduates a passion for justice and an enthusiasm for service," said Holy Cross Sister Catherine Kamphaus, superintendent of Catholic Schools in the invocation of the 52nd Annual Saint Joseph Catholic High School Graduation Ceremony May 23, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ogden.

"Congratulations seniors," said Preston Richey, in his keynote address.

"This commencement marks the end of a great achievement for the parents. The students’ adventure is just beginning," said Richey, who will also be leaving this year as the physics and math teacher at St. Joseph High School.

Richey told the Class of 2008, "it is harder to find out what you want to do than actually doing it. Think about where you are going, and when you do decide, break it down into a step-by-step process. Most importantly, don’t get in too big of a hurry. You are liable to live a long time.

"For many of you your goal has been to graduate from high school and perhaps get into a certain college," said Richey. "This is a time for you to invest in yourselves."

Referring to Deuteronomy, Richy said, "Take care not to forget the Lord, your God. Find time to give back. All the people who have gone before you who have made your life better. You are going to have a good life, I know it."

"We never thought this day would come, and now that it has, it is sad," said Kaela Eddy in her Salutatory greeting. "We had great times. But this is only one part of my life. Another part is my family who has supported me, and for that I am extremely lucky."

Eddy’s grandmother believes in her and she, too, was the salutatorian. Her father taught her to drive. Her mother showed her she could do anything she wanted to do and be anything she wanted to be.

"My mother has taught me so much in life, and she is always there for me," said Eddy. "Not only is she my mom, she is my best friend."

Eddy said she will always remember the wonderful people with whom she has gone to school and with whom she is graduating.

"We have laughed and cried until our cheeks hurt," said Eddy. "All in favor of walking away with our heads held high, say aye." They all agreed.

Valedictorian Christopher Philpot, in his address, fondly remembered splashing through mud puddles at Weber State University with fellow students who were enjoying the altitude, and he spoke of how he was going to miss his friends.

"This room is full of people I admire," said Philpot. "The girl who sat in front of me in theology is the strongest person I know."

Philpot juxtaposed the words from many songs from the 1970s to present to tell his friends and classmates goodbye.

The Most Reverend Bishop John C. Wester thanked all those who had a hand in the formation of the young men and women graduates. He acknowledged that even though some are not Catholic, they are a part of the family of the Diocese of Salt Lake City.

Bishop Wester said as you look at our world today, first you worry for the graduates with the wars and natural disasters, and there are reminders each time you go through security at the airport. "But then you realize you have nothing to worry about because they are in the hands of Jesus," said Bishop Wester. "Through studying and their education, they know what life is about. We do not go through life alone. God is there with us through our family and friends. God has called each one of us by name. Our family, friends, teachers, coaches, and play directors have all called us by name. If you are ever afraid, remember those people who have called you by name. As you continue your journey you will again be called by name."