Graduation is one of those milestones of life that is remembered forever. It is a rite of passage along with obtaining a driver’s license, getting married and the arrival of your first child. Like all rites of passage graduation marks a new beginning, which is why it is marked with a commencement ceremony instead of a conclusion rite.
For the graduate the future is a tabula rasa, a blank slate, a promise to be fulfilled. Congratulations are definitely in order, for the graduate has mastered a demanding course of studies fashioned to prepare him or her for adulthood and responsible citizenship.
Our Catholic institutions and Catholic campus ministers have provided for growth in faith and spirituality to ensure that the future reflects the values of the Catholic tradition and assures a faithful witness. This element of preparation is particularly important in a society that is becoming increasingly hostile to religion and the Gospel.
Finally, I offer a word of congratulation to the parents. Their love and support have made this significant occasion possible. For them, the years have passed too quickly. Graduation is also a rite of passage for them as their parental role changes as their child reaches adulthood and independence.
Please join me in asking God’s blessing on all graduates and their parents and those teachers who have mentored them through the years. I pray you will all continue to be blessed with knowledge, success and happiness!
Image credit: Will Folsom on Flickr
This post is also available in/Esta entrada también está disponible en: Spanish