Graduations are milestones that cry out for recognition and celebration. Based on the past 50 years of ministry, here are some suggestions and possibilities to recognize and celebrate end-of-school graduations in worship services.
Preparation should begin months before the actual event. Those most qualified to help with the planning are youth leaders, along with designated staff members.
This type of worship experience will demand research and creativity on the part of both leaders and students. Materials used should not be expensive or difficult to acquire.
Here are some factors to consider in planning graduate recognition services.
Banners or pennants with school colors. You might need several, depending on the number of schools involved.
PowerPoint slides of honorees taken in various stages at home, school, and church activities.
An accurate list of potential graduates from high school, technical training, college, university, and doctoral programs.
Information regarding the family. When students do not desire immediate family involvement, a sponsor of their choosing would be appropriate.
The date best suited for the majority. Try to avoid conflicts which would cause some to miss the emphasis. Publicize the recognition well in advance.
Research of the students’ school activities as well as future plans regarding further education or the pursuit of a career.
The option of devoting an entire service to the event.
Ways to involve the church family in the recognition.
Correct pronunciation of names and facts about students.
Rehearsal for the program.
Gifts for graduates that are original, practical, and creative. Give gifts of significance.
Plans for a luncheon at the church or a restaurant. Invite parents, other relatives, and spouses or dates as special guests.
Manner of dress for the service.
Graduation celebration could involve an entire week of planned activities culminating with the service of recognition of graduates with a special bulletin insert including photographs and brief biographical sketches and the names of institutions and future plans. Plan the processional into the worship center with “Pomp and Circumstance” or “Chariots of Fire.” This would adequately set the tone.
Gratitude to the church could be expressed by one graduate on behalf of the others.
Recognition by graduates of those who have been role models (parents, grandparents, etc.). Some gift could be prearranged, such as a plaque, trophy, or certificate, for the graduate to present either in the worship service or at a banquet or luncheon.
A member who knows the graduate to act as a sponsor and introduce a student in the recognition service and tell about his or her school experience as well as future plans.
A service involving as many graduates as possible to provide the prayer, announcements, solo, direct the music, speak, and so on, to be in complete charge of the service.
Document youth activities on slides and/or videotape regularly, keeping in mind the upcoming graduates. Prepare an audiovisual presentation, including recorded commentary. Humor works well here.
Time in the service to allow graduates to answer questions that give insight into their personal lives.
Who has influenced you most in your life?
What has been your most memorable experience during your school years?
If you could buy a dream, what would you buy?
If you could be someone else, who would you be?
Do you have a favorite passage of Scripture that has helped you live your life?
What book(s) have you read that challenged you?
Share a dream you have for the future of America.
What advice would you give to students beginning their high school or college years?
What would you do differently if given another shot at school?