Blessed Before the Cap Toss: Addie’s Baccalaureate

Last night, we celebrated a milestone that was so much more than a warm-up for graduation — it was a sacred pause, a moment of gratitude, reflection, and blessing.

Our granddaughter, Adeline aka Addie and the 2025 Westlake High School seniors gathered for their Baccalaureate, and it was beautiful in every way.

Before the diplomas are handed out next Wednesday, this night gently ushered students into a deeper truth: life isn’t just about achieving big things — it’s about becoming people who love our neighbors as ourselves.

The Westlake Baccalaureate mission said it best: to bless students before graduation, to thank God for the gift of these young people, and to seek spiritual guidance for what’s ahead. These aren’t just high achievers — they’re students with big hearts, determined spirits, and hope-filled dreams.

And it wasn’t just a Christian service. It was a multi-faith, student-led celebration — filled with scripture, prayers, and personal testimonies from students of all different backgrounds. Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and even one young man who shared he found his faith during his senior year — after growing up atheist.

One student said it so simply and profoundly: “There should be one religion — the religion of love.” Be still my heart.

Live music from Westlake’s Fine Arts students wrapped the whole evening in reverence and joy. Eleven of us from our family were there, fully engaged in the prayers, the music, and the peace that settled in the room like a blessing. It wasn’t about performance — it was about presence. And God was surely there.

Jeremiah 29:11 was repeated often: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord.” What comfort in knowing that these young lives are held in the hollow of His hands.

Addie shined, as she always does — with that beautiful blend of grace, grit, and kindness. And as she and her classmates prepare to step into their next chapter, we’re cheering them on — not just for what they’ll do, but for who they’re becoming.

So here’s to this class — who dares to dream, to believe, and to love well. The future is bright, because they are.

Oh, and by the way — the after party at the Gates’ home included Carl and me giving her a treasure — a Bible with her name engraved. We pray it will be a gift that will keep on giving through her life — from here to eternity!