Lehigh Valley Christian High School last Friday evening presented the Class of 2014 consisting of 32 graduates during the 26th Commencement Exercise at Cedar Crest Bible Fellowship Church, Allentown.

After the soft tolling of a bell, the new graduates proudly made their way down the middle of the church sanctuary, women dressed in red caps and gowns and men in black.

Class of 2014 President Geneva Piergiovanni welcomed the graduates, staff and family and friends.

Mercedes Jacobs, co-salutatorian, said the graduates have experienced a great deal the past four years. She asked the class to remember their educational journey at LVCHS.

"It's important to reflect on the past four years and what God has blessed you with," Jacobs said.

Co-salutatorian Joshua Brennan said while the transition from high school to college may be frightening, he instructed the graduates to embrace the future.

"Let's move forward in boldness, trusting that God has plans in our lives," he said.

Valedictorian Carlissa Clift said graduation is not the end but a beginning. She said the Class of 2014 can begin a new chapter in their lives knowing they are equipped with useful skills developed at LVCHS.

"Tonight marks the beginning," she said. "I am confidant we have been well prepared to face the obstacles that will come in front of us."

Dr. Todd Williams, president of Cairn University, offered the commencement address. He told the graduates they are charged with living a different type of life.

"The life of a Christian is to live a life with purpose and for a purpose," Williams said.

LVCHS Head of School Robert Brennan said the Class of 2014 is unique. According to Brennan, 59 percent of the class attended the school all four years and 41 percent had attended a Christian school since kindergarten. Also, 72 percent will attend a four-year college or university, 28 percent will attend a community college and 50 percent will attend college outside the state of Pennsylvania.

The valedictorian's closing comment was likely to be echoed by many following the ceremony.

"I wish my fellow graduates the best of luck with whatever God has in store for them," she said.