McKade Kennedy (Photo provided)

COLUMBIA CITY — Columbia City High School/Eagle Tech Academy senior McKade Kennedy graduated June 5, from the seminary program of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Over four years of high school, he studied the Old Testament, New Testament, Book of Mormon and history of the Latter-day Saint faith in a daily, 50-minute class, which started bright and early at 6:45 a.m. 

In order to earn his graduation certificate, Kennedy had to attend classes all four years of high school with at least 80 percent attendance and complete all required course study. Four other Columbia City-area high school students were also honored for completing the course of study this past year.

In addition to his seminary and academic studies, Kennedy contributed through other school and community activities, including participating in student government, tennis, photography and work study. Nonetheless, he found the benefits of attending seminary to be worth the time investment. As Kennedy observed, “It was such a great way to start my day – in a good environment away from all the everyday worries and distractions of the world.”

“The dedication and devotion of these young people is awe inspiring,” said Ferril Sorenson, a leader who oversees eight congregations in northeast Indiana. He also praised the graduates and students for their work ethic and dedication. “They are each involved not only in demanding academic pursuits, but many extracurricular activities such as band, choir and athletics. Most impressive to me is their devotion to their beliefs. They are an example not only to their peers, but also their parents, teachers and others.”

The seminary program is a worldwide, four-year religious educational program for youth ages 14-18 and currently enrolls more than 397,000 students. It is operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints but is open to teenagers of all faiths.