Graduating seniors from Bridgeport High join in a baccalaureate service ahead of the graduation ceremony Friday. Students Josalyn Canter, left, and Ada Davis hear blessings and words of guidance from representatives of area churches

BRIDGEPORT — Graduates of Bridgeport High will begin their journey with blessings from the faith community.

On Tuesday, representatives from the Bridgeport Friendship Council of Churches shared some wisdom, advice and support during the 2025 baccalaureate service. Graduation was set for 7 p.m. Friday.

The Rev. Bob Weaver of St. Paul Lutheran Church and president of the Friendship Council of Churches gave opening remarks and welcomed students and faculty to the 20th baccalaureate. He thanked the school personnel who are responsible for fostering the Bulldog culture that runs strong in the community.

Principal Jack Fisher asked the students to pause and reflect on how far they have come.

“As you are preparing to step into the next chapter of your lives, may tonight offer inspiration and encouragement for the road ahead,” he said. “We’re proud of you. We’re grateful to be here with you and part of your story. I can’t wait to see all you accomplish as you go forth from these halls.”

Pastor Nancy Destefano of St. Paul Lutheran gave the salutation and message for the graduates. She asked graduates to savor the moment and cherish their time at Bridgeport schools.

“Wherever you go, remember this place, remember this day. It will always be a place of identity for you, and a place where you are home,” she said.

Destefano advised the graduates to make plans, but to be adaptable as changing circumstances present new opportunities. She reminded them to find strength in faith. She also shared some guidance she recently gave another young friend: to orient themselves to others, save more than they spend and give to others who are in need, to be industrious and make the most of their time, and to always be grateful.

“I am impressed by what I am seeing in front of me,” she said. “I am excited for your future.”

The Council of Churches also officially presented its annual $1,000 scholarship to Ada Davis.

The Rev. David Demarest of First Presbyterian Church in Martins Ferry and of Rockhill Presbyterian Church of the Bellaire area interviewed attending graduates. Davis is heading to Marshall University to study medical imaging with the goal of becoming a mamotech. Josalyn Canter will study radiology at Belmont College.

Davis read Psalm 139: 1-18, and the Rev. Orlen Mason from Bridgeport Church of God read Matthew 6:25-34. Jason Armstrong of Trinity Lutheran Church led the prayer for the graduates.

Afterward, Davis spoke about what the district has meant for her.

“I honestly love the small, tight-knit community we have at Bridgeport, and the teachers are amazing. They’ve really helped me all throughout elementary up to high school. I’ve been here since I was in preschool, so I’ve been surrounded by the same amazing community.”

Canter agreed.

“Great community, great support, couldn’t do it without everyone.”