Gonzaga Graduation

I wanted Zach's letter to stand alone, and yet I also wanted to capture a few other thoughts from graduation.

Father Lingan's service following Father Novotny's death always impressed me. He, like Father Novotny, seems so very genuine and real and caring. He has a unique communication ability. I'm glad that Zach had the experience of watching his interim leadership.

At Jonathan's graduation, Father Novotny offered the prayer of Teilhard de Chardin, S.J., which I have recorded both here and in 40: Reflections for Lent. So I also had a special interest in Father Lingan's final comments to Zach's graduation. This is what I wrote down:

He began the Baccalaureate service with a statement of conviction: "We are confident of God's love and blessing." That statement alone is worth meditation.

In the Baccalaureate homily based on Matthew 28:16-20, he noted that "some of the disciples doubted; that's normal and that's okay."

And he continued: "My hope and prayer for your class is that the education you have received has prepared you for the task of sharing this good news with others freely. The Gonzaga spirit is a holy spirit. Of that, I am also confident."

Father Lingan concluded the service with "my final words to this class":

"My final words to you are the final words that Paul shared with the Philippians. Always be joyful in the Lord. I repeat this. Always be joyful in the Lord. Our Lord loves you (of that I am confident). And never worry, but give it all to Him in prayer."