June marks the month of graduation, and within the diocese, Catholic academies and high schools have produced thousands of students who have a spiritual backbone behind their education as they embark on a new adventure.
For many of you students, these schools have been more than academic institutions — they’ve been spiritual homes where faith was nurtured through daily prayers, Masses, and the guidance of dedicated teachers and clergy.
But as you step into the next chapter — whether it’s high school, college, or the workforce — the structure behind a Catholic education begins to fade, and the responsibility to sustain your faith falls squarely on your shoulders.
How do you keep your Catholic faith vibrant in a world that often pulls them in different directions? Your education always stressed that the Eucharist is the heart of Catholic life, which can be beneficial in keeping faith in the forefront after graduation.
In school, attending Mass was often built into the schedule, fostering a rhythm of worship. After graduation, it would be beneficial to make a deliberate choice to attend Mass regularly, even when it’s not required.
Another helpful point for older graduates would be to find a parish near your new school or workplace and commit to Sunday Mass.
As Bishop Robert Brennan reminded eighth graders recently, young Catholics often show a natural reverence for the Eucharist. Let that reverence guide you — spend time in Eucharistic adoration to deepen your relationship with Christ, who remains present in the Blessed Sacrament.
Catholic schools often provided a built-in community of peers, teachers, and clergy who shared the faith. After graduation, you may feel isolated in environments where Catholicism isn’t the norm. If you are no longer going to a Catholic institution, many colleges have Newman Centers or campus ministries that host Bible studies, retreats, and service opportunities. In addition, many parishes often have young adult groups where you can connect with others navigating similar transitions.
Catholic schools emphasize service, reflecting Christ’s call to love others. After graduation, continue this mission by volunteering in your parish or community.
In school, prayer was often communal — morning prayers, grace before meals, or rosary recitations. After graduation, build a personal prayer routine to stay connected to God.
Use an app like Hallow to guide you. Prayer doesn’t need to be complex; it’s about opening your heart to God.
The transition out of Catholic school can bring challenges — new environments, diverse worldviews, or time constraints. These are opportunities to live your faith boldly.
When faced with doubt or temptation, recall the story of the boy with five loaves and two fish, shared by Bishop Brennan with the diocese’s eighth graders. Like that boy, your small offerings — time, faith, or kindness — can be multiplied by God to make a difference.
Leaving the nurturing environment of a Catholic school doesn’t mean leaving your faith behind. The lessons learned — reverence for the Eucharist, love for neighbor, and trust in God’s plan — are lifelong gifts.
Stay rooted in the Eucharist, community, learning, service, and prayer. As Pope Leo XIV said, “Without fear, united, hand in hand with God and among ourselves, we will go forward.”
Let your faith guide you forward, confident that God walks with you.