Commencing the New Journey

This time of year is exhausting. Spring has come and thoughts of summer are close by. As the temperatures rise people here begin to get the “summer fever.” The beaches are calling. It is time for the school bell to ring for the last time.

For those in the Senior class, “senioritis” has long been the norm of the day. The seniors tell me they have "checked out" and have begun to dream about the next phase of their lives. Whether they are off to a college or university of their dreams, taking courses at the local community college in the fall or entering the business or military world, seniors are dreaming of the life ahead. One filled with freedom and freshness.

I often remind them, as I open their graduation invitations, that the invite is to their Commencement Exercises. Commencement -to begin; to start. What looks like an ending is just a beginning. I try and ask them to take a few minutes to see what they are packing for the new journey into the unknown. 

All have been given an education or have earned one as they often remind me. The courses they have completed, the extra-curricular activities, the total experiences they have had have helped prepare them for this big moment.

To those seniors who have been involved in their faith life. You may have a few other things to add to your packing.  Your faith has been important to you. You have been a part of a local parish community in a special way. Many of you have seen that it is serving others that you find contentment and fulfillment. You’ve hopefully found a prayer style, a need for sacraments, especially Eucharist and have used your talents in gifts in one of many ways.

No matter what path your future takes remember that the Lord, who has been shared with you b y caring teachers, coaches and youth ministers, is by your side, walking and celebrating your life. Find a place to use your gifts and talents. It will be the greatest gift that you can bring to your “new life.’