On April 23, graduating students from the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board’s seven Catholic secondary schools gathered at St. Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church for the annual System-Wide Graduates’ Mass.
Rooted in faith and community, the celebration brought students together in prayer and reflection as they prepare to complete their secondary school journey and take their next steps beyond the classroom.
The Mass was celebrated by His Excellency, the Most Reverend Bishop Joseph Dabrowski, CSMA, alongside Rev. Father Mark Gatto, marking this important milestone for the Class of 2026.
His Excellency, the Most Reverend Bishop Joseph Dabrowski, CSMA, Bishop of the Diocese of Hamilton, encouraged graduates to reflect on the foundation they are building for their lives, speaking about what he described as four key elements: purpose, planning, sacrifice, and passion. He invited students to consider the question, “What type of person do I want to become?” noting that purpose gives direction and that planning requires intentional steps forward. He also spoke about the importance of being willing to “pay the price,” encouraging students to reflect on what they may need to sacrifice along the way. Challenges, he noted, are not a sign of failure, but often a sign of growth. He added that when passion is connected to something meaningful, it becomes powerful, and that faith plays an important role in shaping that journey, deepening one’s purpose, bringing clarity to plans, and giving greater meaning to sacrifice.
Music was provided by Mary Tabone, Arts Support Facilitator, along with members of the Junior Bishop Ryan Xpression choir, whose contributions enriched the liturgical celebration.
The Graduates’ Mass is an annual tradition organized by the Student Presidents’ Council, along with a committee of teachers and chaplaincy leaders, with support from Nicky Perri, Secondary Religion and Family Life Consultant.
Bringing greetings on behalf of the Board of Trustees, Chairperson Mr. John Valvasori acknowledged the accomplishments of the graduating class and encouraged students to reflect on the impact of their Catholic education. Grounded in God’s love, he invited graduates to consider how they will carry forward what they have learned and use it to make a positive difference in the world around them.
Director of Education Mr. David Hansen reflected on the significance of the moment, noting that in approximately 45 days, students will complete the first part of a journey that began when they first walked into school 14 years ago. Drawing on the words of Mark Twain, he reminded graduates, “The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.”
As graduates look ahead, they are encouraged to carry forward the lessons, values, and sense of purpose nurtured throughout their years in Catholic education, and to make a meaningful difference in the world around them.
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