Students from St. Peter Indian Mission School ready for the future
June 1, 2018
Christopher Lomahquahu
Gila River Indian News
Students at one Community Indian mission school received more than a lesson in academics as they moved to closer high school during their eighth grade promotion.
The St. Peter Indian Mission school held their promotion mass at the school’s chapel on May 22.
The promotion highlighted what the students have learned at St. Peter Indian Mission School, which goes beyond teaching the basics and includes spiritual lessons as well.
Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis said, “You are always going to be a part of the St. Peter Community. Wherever you go the doors and gates will always be open to you.”
He pointed out the school’s unique mixture of religion and O’otham culture that have been a staple of the curriculum taught to the students.
“You have been given a gift of culture, our O’otham Himdag,” said Lewis, “No matter where you go, if it is to some fine institution of a high school…those are the gifts that you are going to carry, moving forward.”
Lt. Gov. Robert Stone said the class of promoted students will carry the Community into the future like the leaders of past generations.
“There are a lot of changes in our community that are good in so many ways,” said Stone.
He said the Community will continue to support its students as they will have many years of education ahead of them, it will be a benefit to all.
Father Anthony took a unique approach to talking about the importance of family, friendship and community.
In using the Avengers as the backdrop for his talk, he said everyone serves a purpose and that even though they may not have a shield, the ability to lift cars or fly like the characters in the movies and comics, they have the power to do incredible things.
His message for the students, was to understand one principle and that is to take what they have been given and God will give them strength.
In closing the ceremonies, Lewis added, “You are going to be faced with a lot of challenges, there will be difficult choices, but you are taught right here, taught right by your family and your teachers.”
