I would like to start by welcoming all of you to today’s event.  It is a special day – for the graduates, for their proud parents and grandparents, and for their teachers.

Graduation is seen as an official way to recognize when a person is ready for the next phase of their life, and graduates you are ready.  You have learned much and you have matured.  You had some great times this past year and maybe you had some tough times, but you persevered, and you succeeded.  You face a future that holds the unknown: exciting experiences, sad experiences, challenging experiences.  With the foundation you have built here at Sacred Heart School, with the love of your family and friends and with your faith, you will meet whatever life has in store for you:

I pray that you will wake each morning and search for God throughout your day.

That you will meet the challenges life tosses your way with prayer and confidence.

That the toys and noise of this world will not reflect in your eyes.

That life will be an adventure with Christ; not too predictable or overly planned.

That you will make time to be available to Him.

I pray that when you see a need you will do your best to meet it.

When you see fear you will give comfort.

When you see anger you will respond with patience.

When you see injustice you will defend.

When you see a life without Christ you will make an introduction.

I pray that when you are in need you will go to Him and graciously accept the help He sends.

When you are afraid you will curl up in His loving arms.

When you are angry you will look at the situation through His eyes.

When you are treated unfairly you will seek His comfort and guidance.

I wish you joy with just enough discomfort so you will appreciate the joy.

I wish you prosperity with just enough struggle to make you responsible and generous.

I wish you peace but not enough to make you complacent.

Embrace the life He gives you, always seek His face, always hope, always dream, work hard, pray hard, serve often, laugh often

And love unconditionally…as He has always loved you.

Congratulations to the Class of 2014, congratulations to your parents, and to all the teachers and everyone who helped our graduates reach here today.  Congratulations, Class of 2014 – Here we go!