Lifted in Prayer: Celebrating St. Joseph’s Indian School Seniors

St. Joseph’s graduating seniors stood outside Our Lady of the Sioux Chapel, greeting community members before the senior prayer service.

Smiles, laughter and a few happy tears filled the air on April 29 as the St. Joseph’s Indian School community came together for a joyful senior prayer service in Our Lady of the Sioux Chapel. It was a special evening dedicated to celebrating our 10 graduating seniors and all they have accomplished.

Surrounded by staff, friends, supporters and loved ones, the Class of 2026 was lifted up in prayer as the community asked for continued guidance, strength and blessings in their future journeys. Each senior was presented with a cross, a symbol of faith to carry with them as they move forward in life.

During the service, attendees also watched a touching senior video featuring reflections from the class. In it, students shared their favorite memories from their time at St. Joseph’s, along with heartfelt advice for those who will follow in their footsteps.

“My advice for younger students is to learn from the good and bad experiences along the way. Also, believe in yourself and don’t give up,” said Latoya, a graduating senior.

Following the service, the celebration continued outdoors as the seniors lined the sidewalk for a receiving line. Community members passed through, offering handshakes, hugs and words of encouragement.

“Hearing all the ‘congrats’ and ‘I’m proud of you’ was a blessing. I felt loved, cared for, seen and accomplished. I’m really thankful for everyone who congratulated me,” said Jamison, a graduating senior.

Community members shared smiles, hugs and words of encouragement as they congratulated the Class of 2026.

The evening concluded in the Dining Hall, where guests gathered for a shared meal and enjoyed a slideshow of photos capturing each senior’s journey at St. Joseph’s, from their earliest days on campus to the young leaders they have become today.

As graduation approaches on May 16 at Chamberlain High School, we are filled with pride and excitement for what lies ahead for these remarkable students. Their time at St. Joseph’s has helped shape not only their education, but also their faith, resilience and sense of purpose.

Philámayaye thank you — to all of our supporters. From the clothes on their backs to the faith in their hearts, your generosity has made a lasting difference in the lives of our seniors. Because of you, they will step into the future prepared, confident and supported.

We can’t wait to see all they will accomplish!

Watch the senior video from the prayer service and hear the incredible wisdom and memories our seniors shared!

In this video, all 10 seniors reflect on the many wonderful years they had at St. Joseph’s Indian School.

Author: St. Joseph's Indian School

At St. Joseph's Indian School, our privately-funded programs for Lakota (Sioux) children in need have evolved over 90 years of family partnership, experience and education. Because of generous friends who share tax-deductible donations, Native American youth receive a safe, stable home life; individual counseling and guidance; carefully planned curriculum based on Lakota culture and individual student needs and tools to help build confidence, boost self-esteem and improve cultural awareness. All of this helps children to live a bright, productive, possibility-filled future.

One thought on “Lifted in Prayer: Celebrating St. Joseph’s Indian School Seniors”

  1. I am so proud of all these seniors and hope you all have a bright future and follow Jesus always ,God bless all of you.

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