The Graduation Stage [Skit Guys]: Help your graduates remember that they are going through a “stage” and that on the other side is a world waiting to hear their voice.”

Church Rethinks School Lunches: “This program is not about churchianity; it’s about Christianity. It’s not about the building, it’s about the people who we are building. It’s about going beyond the walls to reach them to bring them into the walls.” The Rev. Blaine Scott is pastor at First United Methodist Church in Grand Junction, Colorado. His congregation started serving free hot meals to the students at the alternative high school nearby because the school has no cafeteria, only a vending machine. Students at R-5 school face challenges from homelessness to single parenting. All are looking for a second chance at a high school education. Church volunteers provide more than a hot lunch every Friday. “They can come and get a warm meal and they can expect friendly faces and we can say ‘Hey, how was that test?’ or ‘Hey how’s your baby doing?,’” says church member Emily Kempton. Students say they are grateful for the free food and fellowship each week. “They’re not doing it just for the attention they want to make people feel good. They want to know at the end of the day that they helped someone out. They left full,” says student Kiele Key. The principal at R5 says the lunches are making a difference, and giving kids more confidence and a spirit of gratitude.”