The lessons from a poster assignment extend well beyond the effort to make the poster.
Throughout human history, various writing tools have been created to assist students in learning to express their thoughts and lessons clearly, enabling their teachers to assess their progress. Later in life, these skills allow them to communicate ideas and emotions with others. In the late 16th century, copybooks emerged as a tool designed to help students master the handwriting styles of that era.
These early penmanship books became increasingly popular during the 17th and 18th centuries, first in England, then in the United States. Over time, headings were added at the top of each page, offering students examples of phrases to copy as they practiced their cursive handwriting. These headings quickly evolved beyond simple handwriting exercises, becoming a means of teaching enduring truths and general life lessons that have guided humanity and withstood the test of time. Many headings were spiritual, providing students with a faith foundation that would benefit them throughout their lives. The Massachusetts Historical Society’s collections include examples from 15-year-old Tristram Little’s practice book from the early 1800s, featuring lines like “Beware of idleness and sloth,” “Quarrel not at play,” “Rouze up your Genius and exalt your mind,” and “Honor attends virtuous actions.” Educational methods such as these generally helped ensure that children would grow into productive, moral, and spiritual adults.
Reflecting on the lessons embedded in copybook headings, Rudyard Kipling wrote the poem “The Gods of the Copybook Headings” in 1919, in the aftermath of World War I. Kipling’s work was a response to the progressives of his time, who seemed determined to move away from the enduring truths that had long served humanity. The central message in Kipling’s poem mirrors the sentiment of Georg Wilhelm Hegel’s paraphrased quote, “We learn from history that we do not learn from history.” You can read Kipling’s poem here. If the link fails for some reason, copy this URL and paste it into your browser: https://www.kiplingsociety.co.uk/poem/poems_copybook.htm. Both writings invite deeper reflection on the importance of heeding the lessons of the past.
These two historical writings underscore the significance of St. Joseph’s Right to Life program. The program guides students from creating life-affirming posters, which are evaluated by the Knights of Columbus, to a culminating Right to Life Banquet. This sequence of activities helps children build a foundation of faith that will support them throughout their lives. By taking to heart Kipling’s warning not to abandon historical teachings and Hegel’s observation about humanity’s tendency to ignore history’s lessons, St. Joseph’s parish emphasizes the importance of life and teaches children that every life plays a significant role in God’s plan.
The banquet this year was once again thoughtfully planned by Alex Joiner, the Knights Right to Life Chairman, and Beth Perrion, Director of the Parish School of Religion. Their warm enthusiasm played a prominent role in ensuring the event's success. And of course, the evening is only possible as a result of the tireless effort of SJS Principal Danette Ragusa and the entire group of administrative personnel, teachers and parents of both the SJS and PSR students.
As we prepared the KC hall for the event, we anticipated around 120 parents and children in attendance. However, it soon became apparent that the turnout would surpass our expectations. We quickly arranged additional seating, and the final attendance exceeded 160.
After opening remarks from Alex and Beth, everyone enjoyed a delicious dinner prepared by the Knights' resident chefs. The menu, chosen by the children, was fitting for a celebration that honors their unique talents and contributions. The lively atmosphere at each table was a testament to the meal’s success.
Following the meal, featured speakers Sarah Lacroix and Julie Hanks addressed the assembled parents and children. Sarah shared her personal story, highlighting the beauty and life-affirming nature of adoption. Her moving account emphasized the idea that every life has purpose and meaning, sometimes visible to us, sometimes known only to God. Julie Hanks followed with an update on the work of Restoration House, which serves as a beacon of hope for families and young women who need to feel cared for and loved.
The final event of the program was the awarding of trophies to the creators of the top posters in each grade. As with the dinner menu, the prizes were selected by a group of students, making the awards especially meaningful to the winners in each age group. The overall winner was recognized for a poster entitled “The Tree of Life,” which depicted an infant child superimposed on the roots of a tree, with branches representing possibilities that child’s life might touch including hands folded in prayer. This image serves as a fitting parallel to the parable of the mustard seed and to the history of St. Joseph’s parish in Ponchatoula, which began as a small, vibrant church community and has grown into a large, unified congregation. The growth of the SJS and PSR enrollments and to St. Joseph Parish continues to validate Kipling’s lessons, while we should learn from advances in humanity, we must never stray from the truths Almighty God has bestowed on us. Congratulations to all the students who participated in this year’s Right to Life Poster contest.
To view pictures of the event, please click here