St. Bernard Preparatory School recently celebrated the Senior Class of 2025 during the traditional Senior Dedication Mass, marking their role as leaders within the school community. During the Mass, each senior received a Benedictine Cross, a symbol of their dedication and commitment to living out the values of St. Bernard.
The Mass began with seniors seated in the pews before the pulpit, signifying their role at the forefront of the school’s spiritual and academic life. Fr. Joel welcomed all in attendance, including honored guests, parents and grandparents. In his remarks, he recognized the sacrifices made by the families, benefactors, faculty and staff of the school to bring these students to this moment in their journey as school leaders.
Fr. Joel, who asked for prayers for Abbot Marcus as he recovers from eye surgery, delivered the homily, including words by Abbot Marcus.
“You have grown and matured over the years,” Fr. Joel said, “Other students look to you for guidance. You help shape St. Bernard, and it will be different because of you. While you have the light, believe in the light we have among us, let your light shine, and change the world. Be the best so your community can grow and thrive.
“We ask God to empower you for lives of service, because service always means taking up the cross and we need the help of the One who hung on that Cross for us. and remember, the cross is the only way to true life, here and forever.
Following the homily, Headmaster Phuong Nguyen called each senior individually to the front of the church, followed by the faculty and staff. He asked for God’s blessing on the senior class, so that they might serve as faithful leaders in the Saint Bernard tradition.
Seniors then received their Benedictine Crosses, a long-standing tradition at St. Bernard Prep. The ceremony concluded with a response from Senior Class President Madi Kerber, who expressed gratitude on behalf of her classmates. A luncheon followed in the Abbey Byre. St. Bernard Preparatory School Choral Music provided music for the occasion under the direction of Sr. Therese Lopez, LIHM.