GREENVILLE - Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama, Father Romen Acero, pastor of St. Gabriel Parish, and several priests from the Diocese of Raleigh joined the John Paul II High School community to celebrate Mass May 21.
Bishop Luis blessed the soon-to-be graduates’ diplomas and encouraged them to let their “dreams rise as high as their caps on graduation day.”
He continued, “Don’t let the world consume you. Don’t let the world make your faith or your dreams disappear. Be brave when you take your next tests and don’t be afraid to be who you are.”
Many parents and family members joined the 55 seniors, who will graduate May 23, in the Mass celebration. Bishop Luis also addressed the parents directly, thanking for them for their commitment to their children’s education and for their commitment to helping them grow their hearts as well.
“The Baccalaureate Mass serves as an opportunity for our graduates and families to reflect on the sacredness of the high school experience,” said Sylvia R. Tulis, director of spiritual life and chair of theology at John Paul II Catholic High School. “The beauty of the Baccalaureate Mass impressed upon me that the journey to graduation is not made in isolation but rather with the support and love of family, teachers, friends, coaches and pastors. I was reminded that while the Mass is offered in thanksgiving for the academic, personal and spiritual growth of our graduates, it is also a hopeful gaze toward the future. We are sending each graduate into the world as a child of God, encouraging each to carry their faith, values, their experiences on their newest journey. How beautiful to do this in community!”
The Mass was followed by a dessert reception. In addition to Bishop Luis and Father Romen, many priests who serve nearby to the high school were present. Father Nick Cottrill, pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Rocky Mount, Father Jim Magee, pastor of St. Peter in Greenville, Father Ian Van Heusen, chaplain of the Newman Center at East Carolina University, Father Mike Schuetz, diocesan director of Vocations, and Father Nsongolo (Gaston) Baswekundola, C.P., chaplain of Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, were present and stayed for photos and fellowship with the graduates and their families.
“I continue to be amazed and humbled by the support and love of the JPII community,” said principal Katie Stanley. “It takes all of us: the faculty, students and parents giving 100% to continue the momentum of JPII Catholic High School. God has been so good to us, and I am so grateful to have the opportunity to lead this beautiful school.”
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