Students, family and faculty of Salisbury High School gathered at First Presbyterian Church of Allentown recently for the school’s annual Baccalaureate service. The non-denominational service saw attendees bless the graduates as their high school careers concluded through sermon and song.

Students and three speakers led the congregation through the service, which sought to empower the seniors as they venture from the safe harbors of home.

Pastor Jack Haberer, First Presbyterian Church of Allentown, mixed humor and sincerity in his message to the seniors and shared five words that echoed St. Augustine: “All truth is God’s truth.”

Haberer encouraged the seniors to explore the world and their faith by meeting new friends and joining student religious organizations if they plan on attending college. He also urged students not to shut out those who challenge their ways of thought.

“The adventure ahead is one to lay hold of,” Haberer said.

SHS history teacher Michael Barna delivered a powerful message to the seniors. Barna noted the increasing popularity of superheroes across the world, but told the students that the greatest power was inside all of them: love.

“You possess the incredible powers of faith, hope and love,” Barna said.

Barna called upon the students, as they enter adulthood, to love with abandon in a world plagued by division and fear.

“When the world around you is at its worst – be your best,” Barna said.

Joseph Busolits, father of graduating senior Joe Busolits, explained the differences between knowledge, understanding and wisdom. Knowledge and understanding, Busolits said, can be found – but God gives wisdom.

“God’s wisdom is perfect,” Busolits said. “Stand on it. It does not change.”

Seniors Aliyah Kimmey and Molly Kiska read passages from the book of Proverbs, which underscored Busolits’s message of wisdom. Throughout the night, the congregation sang several songs including “Here I Am Lord,” by Dan Schutte and “I Was There to Hear Your Borning Cry,” by John Carl Ylvisaker.

After the service, patrons gathered for a reception in the church where a number of refreshments were served.