Earliest graduation crescent:

(Front) “Rose M. O’Reilly”

(Back) “Academy of the Visitation. St. Louis MO. June 29th 1864”

The story of the Visitation crescent stretches back to the 13th century and Pierre de Sales, an ancestor of Saint Francis de Sales, founder of the Visitation Order. During a perilous naval journey, Pierre witnessed two shooting stars forming a crescent shape above his ship, guiding them to victory. As a reward for his bravery and leadership, he received a coat of arms featuring this celestial crescent alongside twin stars.

When the Sisters of the Visitation established their first school in St. Louis in 1833. Inspired by the de Sales family crest and its symbolic meaning, one of the founding sisters bestowed a gold crescent upon a graduating student. This gesture sparked a tradition that has endured for generations, connecting each graduating class to the school’s founding principles and rich heritage. 

Initially, the crescent was simply presented to the graduates. However, over time, the Crescent Ceremony evolved into a more elaborate and meaningful event. Today, it’s a cherished ritual held in the school’s chapel, filled with tradition and emotion. Family members, faculty, and fellow students gather to witness the seniors receive their crescents, symbolizing their academic achievements, personal growth, and commitment to the school’s values.