Xavier Celebrates Rising Seniors

By Michael P. Batten '10


On May 20, members of the junior class, their families, and their teachers congregated in the Church of St. Francis Xavier for the annual Junior Liturgy. At this event, members of the school community came together to ask for God’s blessings as the junior class prepares to take on the leadership roles expected of them during their senior year.

The Junior Liturgy was planned entirely by volunteers from the junior class. A committee of juniors met over the last few months to select the liturgical readings and music, as well as to nominate two members of their class who would offer a welcome address and reflection.

In his welcome address, Andrew Perez ’16 reminded his peers that “the guidance of God is necessary in becoming the epitome of a Xavier student and to fulfill the profile of a ‘Graduate at Graduation,' to be intellectually competent, loving, open to growth, and committed to doing justice.”

Rev. Louis Garaventa, S.J., who delivered the homily, assured juniors that they are well-equipped to handle the leadership roles and responsibilities expected of them next year, whether they take place in the classroom, on the sports field, or in the Regiment. Fr. Garaventa continued by saying that all of the challenges, successes, and failures they have faced so far as students have provided them with the experience they need to thrive as leaders at Xavier.

Following the liturgy, Matthew LaSorsa ’16 gave the reflection address. He spoke about the values that he believed to be most exemplary among members of the junior class. He cited as particular strengths their fervid love of service, their hard work and dedication, and their close-knit community. He reminded his peers to continue to strive to “exemplify leadership, service, and effort as other classes have done before us, and always to serve God and be men for others.”

After LaSorsa’s reflection, all attendees retreated to Hurtado Hall for a dinner that was full of laughter and shared memories. The Junior Liturgy offered a valuable opportunity for reflection, and the Class of 2016 returned home with a sense of excitement over what their senior year will hold.