MOUNT VERNON — The dictionary defines graduation as “the ceremony of conferring degrees or diplomas, as at a college or school.” And yet, a simple definition for a great accomplishment.

On Sunday, the 2010 Mount Vernon Academy commencement was held in honor of 36 graduating students.

Many words of encouragement were given to students as they take the step from one level in their lives to the next.

“Start by standing in awe of God,” said MVA Chaplain Tim Soper, commencement address speaker. “Your journey must continue with the realization that it’s not about me, it’s not about you, it’s about God.”

Soper reminded the students to be the difference and not hold an attitude of selfishness, but carry one of selflessness. He used the passage, Acts 16: 16-40, that spoke of the Apostle Paul and Silas’ imprisonment at Philippi. They were beaten, shackled in chains, and then placed in a cell but that didn’t stop Paul and Silas from praying and singing hymns to God, said Soper. Even when through miraculous happenings their chains were broken and the gates of the prison flew open, Paul and Silas acted to save the jailer instead of leaving. Soper told the students, God calls “you” to hold a conviction of selfless service.

“Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning,” quoted 2010 Class President Alexander Erskine during his address.