'Right now is where we begin'

NORWALK — There is a certain solemnity that only occurs when a graduation is hosted in a church. The atmosphere of peace permeates the ceremony, whether you share the faith or not. St. Paul High School's graduation Sunday was no different. The ceremony began with the processional of graduates, who walked down the aisle in pairs, accompanied by the song "Fanfare and Processional." The boys wore black caps and gowns, while the girls were dressed in all-red attire. After the graduates entered, Garrett Cook, salutatorian, gave the welcoming speech, which focused on "taking it in." Cook reminded the class and those in attendance, "No one else can ever claim the role of St. Paul Class of 2025." Cook expressed that we should live in the moment, telling his classmates, "Let's carry the strength of our time together and remember that the present moment — right here, right now — is where we begin to create the lives we'll live next." The opening song, "Canticle of the Sun," was then played. Fletcher Ross gave a first reading of biblical texts, followed by a Psalm response by the attendees. Adele Dowdell did a second biblical reading, followed by a homily presented by Deacon Andrew Messer. Then a communion song, "Here, I am Lord," was sung by those present. Messer and St. Paul Principal Mike Gocsik then presented the Bishop's crosses, and the closing song, "City of God," ended the religious portion of the ceremony. After the class introduction by Mike Gocsik, Samantha Gocsik gave the valedictory speech. Samantha Gocsik elected to deliver her speech as a poem, reminiscing of events and ending with the class motto, "As long as this is as hard as it gets." John Livengood, St. Paul dean of students, and Mike Gocsik presented the graduates with diplomas, as Martin Linder, Norwalk Catholic president, conferred them. Messer then gave a military blessing, and the students switched their tassels, symbolizing the end of their high school career. To close the program, the attendees sang the school's Alma Mater. St. Paul High School class of 2025 • Total number of graduates: 37