The Sacred Heart Cathedral was a fitting backdrop for the grand occasion of the Graduation Mass of the Class of 2025 on Thursday 20 November.

With loved ones and special guests present for the joyful celebration of the end of their school years, Faith Captains Holly McColl and Liam Tyndall and College Captains Jaida Raco and Caleb Tobin led the procession of graduands. House banners and meaningful items symbolising the past six years were brought forward by the students.

The mass was concelebrated by our own alumni, Fr Jackson Saunders and Rev Dr Jake Mudge, along with Fr Junray Rayna. The students took an active role in the parts of the mass while the music was beautifully provided by a combined choir and musicians from Coolock and St Mary’s

Melissa and Tony Ryan, parents of graduating student Oliver Ryan, reflected on the education of their children in a faith-filled environment where young people are encouraged to follow their dreams and passions, while building lifelong friendships. Students Jay Thacker and Isabella Makris spoke on behalf of the Class of 2025 with a nostalgic reflection on memorable moments from their past six years.

In Fr Jake’s homily urged the graduands to hear Jesus’ call to be salt and light to those they meet, bringing meaning and community to the lives of those around them. He compared school life to a sacred journey or pilgrimage, filled with purpose. He encouraged students to give thanks to the friends, family and teachers who accompany them on their journey of life.

During the Graduation Blessing, each student from the Class of 2025 received a mission cross, certificate and Class of 2025 lapel pin. The cross represents the unique call and mission of each student in going forward from the College community of faith.

The ceremony concluded with one of the most memorable elements of graduation – the Ceremony of Light. The light symbolises an ending and a beginning – the Easter light, the symbol of Christ. It is also the light of love, wisdom, faith and of hope. Tarah Frawley performed an emotion-filled version of ABBA’s ‘Slipping Through My Fingers’ before the graduates processed out of the Cathedral and into their futures.

Following the Graduation Mass, graduates, their parents and carers, as well as staff, celebrated the occasion at the Bendigo Town Hall.

Graduating Class of 2025