PINEVILLE, La. (5/10/2026) — Pineville High School seniors, families, and faculty gathered Sunday morning for the Pineville High School Baccalaureate Service ahead of graduation week celebrations for the Class of 2026.
Held inside the Pineville High School auditorium, the service featured prayer, worship, reflections, and encouragement for graduates preparing to enter a new chapter in life.
Student Council President Aaron Lueder Genannt Luehr presided over the ceremony and introduced guest speaker Pastor Steve Mears of Kingsville Baptist Church.
“We celebrate the mothers in our lives,” Mears said during the Mother’s Day service. “Those who prayed, encouraged, corrected, and supported them along the way.”
Using Psalm 121 as the foundation of his message, Mears encouraged students to build their lives on faith, character, and perseverance rather than public approval or achievement.
“The future will ask more of you than talent,” Mears told graduates. “It will ask for character, courage, humility, and perseverance.”
Principal John Neal reflected on the emotions surrounding graduation week for both students and parents.
“There’s a joy and sadness that goes with all this,” Neal said. “Your families are thrilled beyond belief at what you get to experience, but they’re also hurting because they know things are changing.”
Neal encouraged students to appreciate the moment and recognize the support system that helped them reach graduation.
“You earned it,” Neal told seniors. “Feel all of it — the joy and the sadness.”
The Pineville High School Baccalaureate Service also included performances by Pineville High School Senior Choir Members, including the school’s “Alma Mater” and “Irish Blessing,” along with the traditional “Pomp and Circumstance” processional and recessional.
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