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‘You Are Made in the Image of God’—Valedictorian’s Faith-Filled Graduation Speech Goes Viral for All the Right Reasons

A South Carolina high school valedictorian is going viral for her very faith-based graduation speech following a devastating tragedy.

High School Valedictorian Delivers Graduation Speech Hours After Dad’s Funeral

Early College High School valedictorian Alem Hadzic has gone viral after he took the stage at his graduation ceremony to deliver his speech—just hours after his father's funeral. 

See the High School Graduation Trend That’s Making the Internet Cry

As the class of 2024 graduates and the school year comes to a close, there’s a new trend happening on social media that has all of us sentimentals feeling unwell over how fast time flies. 

Pastor and Author Darrin Patrick Died of Self-Inflicted Gunshot Wound

Surratt had a big role in Patrick’s restoration. The last 12 months of Patrick’s 26-month process included re-engaging in ministry under Surratt’s supervision. Patrick started teaching at Seacoast Church in a formal capacity in June 2017. Speaking to the Post and Courier, Surratt said the Patricks, who are living in Missouri, were planning on buying a house in South Carolina.

Despite their founding pastor leaving them, The Journey is continuing on in their mission to reach St. Louis for Christ. A Religion News Service article published in 2019 comes to the conclusion that the church is still thriving and that most of the members seem to have forgiven Patrick for his failings.

In a statement about Patrick’s death, The Journey wrote: “Through the calling on Darrin’s life, there are thousands who know Jesus and thousands more who have been strengthened in their walk with the Lord because of Darrin’s ministry. We can honestly say that we see Jesus more clearly, worship him more fully, and treasure His grace more deeply because of Darrin’s impact.”

Patrick was 49 years old when he died on May 7, 2020. Funeral services have not yet been announced.

Megan Briggs
Megan Briggs
Megan Briggs is a writer and editor for ChurchLeaders.com. Her experience in ministry, an extensive amount of which was garnered overseas, gives her a unique perspective on the global church. She has the longsuffering and altruistic nature of foreign friends and missionaries to humbly thank for this experience. Megan is passionate about seeking and proclaiming the truth. When she’s not writing, Megan likes to explore God’s magnificent creation.

‘You Are Made in the Image of God’—Valedictorian’s Faith-Filled Graduation Speech Goes Viral for All the Right Reasons

A South Carolina high school valedictorian is going viral for her very faith-based graduation speech following a devastating tragedy.

High School Valedictorian Delivers Graduation Speech Hours After Dad’s Funeral

Early College High School valedictorian Alem Hadzic has gone viral after he took the stage at his graduation ceremony to deliver his speech—just hours after his father's funeral. 

See the High School Graduation Trend That’s Making the Internet Cry

As the class of 2024 graduates and the school year comes to a close, there’s a new trend happening on social media that has all of us sentimentals feeling unwell over how fast time flies.