Seminary Graduation

"This man changed my life!" Caleb remarked as he put his arm around his seminary teacher, Brother Casperson, to pose for a picture.

Seminary was a safe haven and Caleb's favorite class throughout his high school years.  He grew to really idolize his teacher and I'm grateful for his commitment to teaching the gospel to the young people of the Auburn Stake.

I cried as the seminary graduates filed into the chapel--and pretty much through the entire ceremony. Caleb has grown up with these outstanding kids.  They've each grown into really fine young adults.

Mill Pond Ward Graduates

From left: Bishop Amis, Adam Berry, Rachel Guisinger, Ben Summers, Emma Kristensen, Caleb and Brother Casperson.

Auburn Stake Graduates

Sister Little was Caleb's teacher his freshman year--the one year that he had early-morning seminary. She completely embodied what it means to love those you teach.  She could often be seen at sporting events, supporting her seminary students.  Sister Little came to several cross country meets to watch Caleb run.   They maintained a friendly BYU/Utah banter and Caleb often said she was the only good Ute he'd ever met. She indeed is such a very good woman and Caleb loved her.

Some of Caleb's little buddies.

President Miles, our stake president, was always so supportive of the youth and a fine example of a good, strong leader.

These moments are so bittersweet.  My heart rejoices that Caleb has developed such a love of the gospel and yet arriving at the close of this chapter has me wishing for more time.