Graduation season is underway at many high schools, colleges, and universities across the country. Graduates are celebrating their hard-earned education and accomplishments. While this time is filled with joy, it also brings poignant farewells to classmates with whom they have shared countless memories over the years. For some, life after graduation means living independently for the first time, which can feel daunting.

The Apostles appointed Philip as a deacon to help care for the Church's needs. When persecution broke out in Jerusalem, Philip traveled north to Samaria. The obstacles Philip faced were real. Jews and Samaritans had deep tensions — religious, cultural, and social — that kept them from engaging with each other. Yet Deacon Philip walked into Samaria without hesitation.