A week from today, we will honor our graduating class of 2016. I have grown fond of these kids, who are now so ready to move beyond our school walls. But while commencement is a time to start anew, to look forward, I hope they take to heart a few life lessons learned at St. Pats.  

I hope they treasure the special relationships they have made. Many have known one another for the past nine years, literally growing up together. I want them to recognize the power of their gentleness, as expressed when they held kindergarten kids' hands during Field Day. I hope they remember the dignity they gave when they smiled and said, "Good morning," while passing food to adults who needed a meal during Keep 'Em Warm and Fed. I've seen the soon-to-be graduates struggle to master math concepts or to write an essay, and I pray they continue to exercise the self-discipline it takes to succeed in anything they do.  I would be happy if they recall later in high school that they crowned Mary, took time to altar serve at funerals and enacted the Stations of the Cross so others could feel the suffering of Jesus for our salvation.  I believe they will subconsciously remember to ask St. Patrick to pray for them when they themselves are in need.

As I look at our mission statement, which calls for us to prepare students with an abiding Catholic faith who pursue academic excellence and model honesty and respect, I know our eighth graders are ready for a new beginning. I am honored to have them join our 123-year legacy.

Join me in praying for the class of 2016.

St. Patrick, pray for us.

Chris