Class of 2017 Celebrates Commencement

June 7, 2017

On Wednesday, May 31, two hundred and eighty six seniors crossed a monumental threshold in their lives:  graduation from Cretin-Derham Hall. 

Baccalaureate Mass and Brunch

The day began with the celebration of the Eucharist at the Baccalaureate Mass at Lumen Christi Catholic Community.  “Blessed Unity” was the theme and the liturgy opened with a welcome from Molly Johnson and John Modl, recipients of the 2017 Ireland Awards.  The class’ unity was formed from so many moments of joy, tragedy, and service:  the death of classmate Mac Greeman, the numerous drives for food, blood and coats, being the first CASA group and establishing the Food to Hogs Program.

Chaplain Pat Kennedy ’69 spoke of the holy presence of God in all things.  He reminded everyone that the future may be unknown and fear and anxiety might surface, but all will forever be in the holy presence of God. 

At the presentation of the gifts, not only was the bread and wine brought forth, but also a red rose and a bouquet of yellow roses sat in front of the altar.  The single rose symbolized the presence of Mac Greeman and the rose bouquet represented the ten parents of the Class of 2017 who had died. 

During Communion, the choir sang The Road Home by Stephen Paulus.  After Communion, students and parents received the well-wishes and blessings of over 65 faculty and staff.  At the conclusion of the liturgy, all returned to Cretin-Derham Hall for a luncheon catered by Tinucci’s in the Joe Mauer Field House.

Commencement

Commencement took place at the Cathedral in St. Paul. It was a special evening for the 286 graduates and their families. 

In his commencement speech, Student Council Co-President George Masson urged his classmates to embrace the fear as they move on to the next phase of their adventure.  Mr. Tim Spika, chosen by the graduates to offer his thoughts on their graduation, spoke eloquently, urging the graduates to embrace the gifts that each one of them has to offer and to find ways to really engage in their own lives. 

Following the ceremony, graduates processed onto the steps of the Cathedral for the ceremonial cap toss before heading back to CDH one last time to enjoy the Senior Lock-In together.