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On Saturday, May 30, Lancaster Mennonite School proudly celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2026 during its 84th Commencement Ceremony in the Calvin & Janet High Fine Arts Center. Surrounded by family, friends, faculty, staff, and supporters, 60 seniors crossed the stage to receive their diplomas and mark the completion of their Lancaster Mennonite journey.
The ceremony centered on this year’s school theme, Rooted in Christ, inspired by Colossians 2:6–7:
“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”
Throughout the morning, graduates were encouraged to carry their faith with them as they take the next steps in their educational, professional, and personal journeys.
The Class of 2026 was led by its Senior Class Committee: Co-Presidents Ella Grace Binkley and William John Rothwein; Co-Vice Presidents Marian Castillo-Garcia and Katherine Elinor Metzler; Treasurer Nolan Parsons; and Secretary TJ Kennedy. These student leaders helped guide their classmates throughout the year and contributed to a meaningful commencement celebration.
The ceremony opened with a welcome and prayer from Superintendent Dr. Michael I. Badriaki and featured musical selections from the Senior Musicians Ensemble under the direction of Choir Director, Kirsten E. Baker. Student speakers Katherine Elinor Metzler and William John Rothwein shared personal reflections, words of gratitude, and encouragement for their fellow graduates as they embark on new chapters of life.
Graduates also heard from Commencement Speaker Dr. Christine J. Gardner, Provost of Messiah University, whose address, “Standing Firm,” challenged students to remain steadfast in their faith and convictions while navigating the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
Additional highlights included the presentation of the senior class gift, a special faculty blessing over the graduates, and the formal presentation of the class by Principal Kirk R. Benner. Diplomas were awarded by school leadership and board representatives, officially recognizing the accomplishments and perseverance of the Class of 2026.
The celebration concluded with one of Lancaster Mennonite’s most beloved traditions—the graduates’ hat toss—a joyful moment that marked both an ending and a beginning.
As these graduates leave Lancaster Mennonite, they carry with them years of academic preparation, meaningful relationships, Christian formation, and experiences that have shaped them into thoughtful leaders and compassionate servants. Whether attending colleges and universities, entering the workforce, pursuing vocational training, or exploring other opportunities, the members of the Class of 2026 are equipped to impact their communities and the world around them.
Congratulations to the Lancaster Mennonite School Class of 2026! We celebrate your accomplishments, give thanks for the ways God has worked in your lives, and look forward to seeing how you will continue to live as people who are firmly rooted in Christ.
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Photo credits: Jonathan Charles
