First graders portray saints for All Saints Day Mass

SALT LAKE CITY — "Everyone of us, without exception, is called to be a saint," said Deacon Dave Osman, in his homily at the Saint Vincent de Paul School All Saints Day Mass at Saint Vincent de Paul Church Oct. 31.

Deacon Osman said the best way to become a saint is by doing what God wants you to do.

"If you are a teacher, that is exactly the way God intends for you to become a saint. Be the best teacher you can be for your students with the gifts you were given," said Deacon Osman. "If you are a parent, that is exactly the way God intends you to become a saint. If you are a student, God intends you to become a saint by using the gifts God gave you to the best of your ability mentally, physically, and spiritually."

Following Communion, the first grade students dressed as various saints, accompanied by their eighth grade buddies, processed to the podium and presented the saints.

"The saints were people who worshipped God," read Casey Crosson, a seventh grade student. "They put their trust in neither idols nor themselves, but in God alone. The saints show us we do not have to go far to find the path to holiness. It runs right through the circumstances of our daily lives. We find it every time we make a decision based on the teachings of Jesus."

"I was a great doctor and painter," said Adam Koblanski as Saint Luke. "I gave my life to God and wrote one of the gospels in the Bible."

"I am Elizabeth Ann Seton," said Nya Elder. "I started the Sisters of Charity and opened the first parochial school in America. I was the first American to become a saint.

"I am Saint Vincent de Paul," said Alexander Neely. "I was a priest who got many people to feed the poor, nurse the sick and help orphans. I am famous for being a good friend to the poor."

"I am Saint Clare," said Emily Malouf. "I was born very rich but gave up my money to live a simple life like Jesus. I started the Order of Poor Clares."

"I am Saint Peter," said Peter Larrabee. "I was a fisherman who became a follower of Jesus. Jesus changed my name from Simon to Peter, which means rock. I am considered the first pope."

The eighth grade escorts were the first class to be saints. It was started in 2000 by Mary Ferrell, then the first grade teacher, and Sandra Hill, then the first grade teacher’s aid.

"They all do such a special job," said Hill. "The eighth graders feel such a sense of responsibility."

"The eighth grade students practiced with the first grade students, and it made the program a success," said Jeanne Pence, Saint Vincent first grade teacher. "The first grade students have courage and confidence with their eighth grade buddies at their side. Terry Stack, the Saint Vincent eighth grade religion teacher, also helped with this program."