Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, Hon. Bill McGill Jones, addressed the graduating class of Saint Martin’s Catholic High School in Gbarnga, Bong County, on October 25, 2025. Serving as keynote speaker at the school’s graduation ceremony held at the Holy Spirit Cathedral, Jones encouraged graduates to embrace faith, discipline, and service as essential values for their personal growth and contributions to both Bong County and Liberia.
In his speech titled “Rise Forward with Faith: Building Your Future, Serving Bong County and Liberia,” Jones spoke about education as a privilege that comes with responsibility. He emphasized its importance in uplifting others and advancing national development.
“St. Martin’s has stood for generations as a beacon of knowledge, discipline, and faith,” he said. “Today, you join a noble legacy of men and women who continue to serve Liberia with honor and distinction.”
Drawing from his own experiences growing up in Bong County, Jones recounted how perseverance and support from his parents enabled him to pursue studies abroad. “My parents had no riches to leave us,” he recalled. “But they gave us something far greater — faith, discipline, and resilience. Because of their sacrifices and by God’s grace, I was able to walk the halls of some of the world’s greatest institutions. But my story, like yours, began right here in Bong County.”
He described his mother’s efforts selling goods in local markets so her children could attend school: “Fellow Students, I still remember waking up early with her as she prepared goods for the day, always cheerful despite hardships. As Barack Obama described his mother, she was ‘the biggest influence on his life.’ My mother instilled in me a belief in our shared humanity and taught me to recognize the dignity in every person.”
On his father’s role: “My father… worked tirelessly… They did not have wealth but they had faith, hope, and resilience. Because of their sacrifices and God’s blessings I had the opportunity to study at some of the best institutions across the world including… Harvard University,” Minister Jones said.
Jones urged graduates not to be discouraged by setbacks but rather use them as learning opportunities. Quoting Nelson Mandela he stated: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” He added his own message: “faith turns ‘no’ into ‘next opportunity.’”
“When life knocks you down rise forward with faith. When others doubt you rise forward with faith,” he declared. “Our beloved Liberia still stands today because we have learned to rise forward with faith. God is not finished with Liberia yet.”
The Deputy Minister also acknowledged parents’ contributions: “You worked hard prayed hard believed hard… Your sacrifices are written in the smiles of your children’s faces…. Without your support none of these people will be here today…. We ask God to keep blessing the work of your hands so that our younger ones that are coming up… you will continue to support them as they move forward.”
Reflecting on personal struggles during his education journey he said: “When one door closed I knocked on another…. That is what it means to rise forward with faith.” He reminded students that challenges should strengthen their reliance on God.
He concluded by urging integrity among graduates: “The decision that will promote you is never made in your presence; it is made in your absence…. only your character can vouch for you…. live with integrity serve with humility lead with compassion…. Remember that today’s decisions are tomorrow’s reality.”
The event gathered government officials clergy educators parents students and community leaders who celebrated alongside graduates.