This time of year is typically referred to as “graduation season”. We remember in a special way our loved ones and friends who are graduating from various levels of education. They have persevered through many years of study and difficult and challenging times. It is also most appropriate to thank the parents, friends, teachers, and mentors for all that they have done to make this time so special.
Arthur Brooks, author and social scientist, in his remarks at a commencement exercise at Catholic University of America, addressed the anxiety that many graduates face when determining what is next in their lives. He suggested that whatever they decide to do, it should be grounded in love of God and love of others. He stated, “You don’t cut corners when it comes to working in God’s image. This is also the best way to share our faith. The best way to bring people to the love of Christ is to be great at what you do. The reason for that is that excellence draws people like moths to a flame. Your excellence, fellow Catholics, is your missionary work. Take it seriously.”
At a different commencement exercise at that same university, Bishop Robert Barron challenged the graduates by stating: “Contrive a way to make your life a gift. Do not endeavor to fill up your ego; rather, endeavor to make it a conduit of grace.”
As we reflect on these profound words of Dr. Brooks and Bishop Barron, we realize that our graduates may very often face peer pressure to conform to ideas and activities in our culture which are contrary to our Catholic teaching and formation. Our graduates truly need our prayers, our support, and our good example to assist them in sustaining a spiritual foundation.
The following “Prayer for Guidance in Your Future”, provided by the media outlet, “PerfectPrayers.com” asks Our Heavenly Father for guidance and support:
Heavenly Father,
I come before You at this milestone of graduation,
seeking Your guidance.
Direct my steps as I step into new opportunities and challenges.
Grant me discernment to make choices aligned with Your will,
courage to embrace Your plans, and wisdom to honor You in all I do.
Lord, illuminate my path, protect me from misdirection,
and help me serve You faithfully.
May every decision I make reflect Your love, truth, and righteousness
leading to a future with purpose, blessings, and Your divine favor.
Amen.
Photo from Blessed Trinity HS, Roswell, GA, 2026, Facebook Page
We encourage our graduates to take this prayer to heart. On behalf of our priests, deacons and staff, we congratulate all our graduates and wish them well in their future endeavors.