Celebration of the Class of 2020

Opening Remarks

• Teeny ice cream lights provided at Wrigley Road School.
• Acknowledgment of the presence of a strong man who is a guiding light.
• Invocation of the Holy Trinity.
• Expression of grace and peace, introduction to the celebration.

Sacred History and Prayers

• Pause to acknowledge citizens with contrite hearts, trusting in God’s presence.
• Repeated phrases of mercy: “Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy.”
• Prayer for God’s mercy and forgiveness of sins.

Scripture and Teachings

• Colossians Reflection:
  • Encouragement to embody kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and forgiveness.
  • Emphasis on love as the bond of perfection.
  • Importance of gratitude and doing everything in the name of Jesus.
• Responsorial Psalm: “Lord, I love your commands”
  • Importance of God’s commandments and decrees.
• Gospel (John):
  • Commandment to love one another as Jesus loves.
  • Emphasis on remaining in Jesus’ love by keeping His commandments.

Legend of Thomas Jefferson

• Story of kindness on a cold day in Virginia.
• Jefferson’s act of helping an old man and the importance of character.

Reflections on Clothing and Identity

• Clothing as an expression of identity and values.
• St. Paul’s advice to clothe oneself in virtues reflecting Christ.

Graduation Reflection

• Parents as first teachers of faith.
• Hope for graduates to live with faith, aiming for heaven.
• Aspiration for graduates to display good character and love for others.

Prayers for the Community

• Prayers offered for church leaders, graduates, families, teachers, and those in transition.
• Special intentions for those facing hardships.

Eucharistic Celebration

• Sanctification of bread and wine.
• Reminder of Jesus’ sacrifice and the mystery of faith.

Senior Reflection by Emma Van Bramer

• Personal reflections on faith and education.
• Encouragement to embody love and kindness in action.
• Quote from St. Teresa of Calcutta about doing small things with great love.

Closing Blessing

• Blessing for God’s guidance, wisdom, and peace in the graduates’ lives.
• Encouragement to bear fruit and remain faithful and loving.

These notes capture the essence of the celebration, focusing on themes of love, faith, and community. The importance of character, compassion, and gratitude is emphasized throughout the Holy Mass.