O Giver of life – we are here to celebrate 5 decades of life in the real world. Two score and 10 years ago the class of ’64 left the friendly confines of Wapak High on a journey full of victories and defeats, joys and sorrows, a journey that has taught us how precious each day is. We didn’t learn everything we needed to know in kindergarten, or even from Miss Hunt or Mr. Krebs or Mrs. Miller, or even from Mr. Bigelow or Coach Rose or Cappizello. We are all still students in the school of life, and we thank you for what we have learned and are learning from each other, from children and grandchildren.
Just as our long ago graduation was a commencement and not an end, this rite of passage tonight is another new beginning. It is an opportunity to share memories and laughter, to be inspired by the contributions we are making collectively and as individuals to the betterment of life on this planet. We know it is not up to us to solve the world’s problems, and that’s a very good thing; but it is up to us to be the best citizens, friends, parents, grandparents, spouses and partners we can be. Help us always use what we have learned and are learning to leave a positive legacy behind for those who follow in our footsteps.
So we celebrate the lessons learned so long ago in the classrooms and in the extracurricular activities at WHS, but also the human life skills we learned in friendships, in teamwork, in musical and dramatic presentations. We express our gratitude for the teachers and school staff who put up with us, we give thanks for the classmates and spouses who worked hard to make this weekend possible, and now we ask your blessing on the food we are about to eat and the fellowship we share around these tables.
For all that has been we say thanks, and for all that is yet to be, we say a resounding, Yes!
Amen.
[Written for the Wapakoneta, Ohio High School class of 1964 50th class reunion, September 21, 2014.]
Dear Steve, I was so moved by this prayer. . . thank you for the beautiful way it is so full of understanding and so inclusive of the many aspects of life! Your class was blessed to have this prayer!
I am asking your permission to use parts of your prayer for our 50 th class reunion in October. It is a lovely expression for a reunion. Thank you. Diane Coolbaughd
Thank you for asking, and for your kind words. You may use it with my blessing. Steve
Hello from Canada! I have been asked to say the farewell benediction at my 56th nurses reunion in April. May I please us portions of your wonderful prayer in the ceremony? Many Thanks. Virginia Lynn
Thank you Virginia. Yes you may.
Loved your class reunion prayer. I am composing a prayer for my 50th reunion & would like to use some of the inspiring thoughts you wrote. Thank you
Thanks Karen, I’m glad it was helpful and you certainly are welcome to use whatever fits your situation. And congratulations on making it to 50.