Location: Our Lady’s Chapel at Assumption Seminary
Fr. Juan Molina, faculty members, graduates, family members and friends, dear brothers and sisters; today we celebrate a momentous milestone in the lives of these graduates – the completion of their studies and the beginning of new services to the Lord and His Church. Today’s great joy also comes with profound responsibility, as you now go forth to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ to the world in new ways.
In our first reading, from the Acts of the Apostles, we hear of the travels and preaching of St. Paul. He encountered many challenges, from the Jews who contradicted and blasphemed, to the proconsul Gallio who dismissed the matter. Yet, through it all, Paul persevered, driven by an unwavering faith and a burning desire to bring the message of salvation to all people.
Similarly, you graduates have undergone a rigorous formation, equipping you with the knowledge, skills, and most importantly, the spiritual fortitude to face the trials that lie ahead. Like Paul, you are now being sent forth to continue the work of evangelization, to lead others to the truth of Christ, mostly through your witness.
In the Responsorial Psalm, we are reminded of the transcendent power and majesty of God, who has vested us with his authority, the authority of his love. This is the God whom you have come to know and love, the one who has called you to your different ministries. As you go forth, remember that it is not your own strength or wisdom which will sustain you, but the grace and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
In the Gospel, Jesus speaks of his imminent departure, telling his disciples that he will go to the Father.
Yet, he also promises that he will not leave them alone, for the Holy Spirit will come to be their advocate and guide. This same Holy Spirit now rests upon you, empowering you to be bold witnesses of the faith, to speak the truth with compassion and courage, and to lead others to the Father through the Son.
As you embark on this new chapter of your lives, let me encourage you with words of Pope Francis, “not only to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the intellectual and spiritual richness of our Catholic tradition, but also, and in a truly evangelical spirit, to cultivate the culture of encounter…” Your mission is to bring the joy of your personal encounter with Jesus, this Good News, to a world that so desperately needs it.
My dear graduates, the road ahead may not be easy, but take heart, for the Lord is with you.
Be steadfast in your faith, unwavering in your commitment, and ever-mindful of the great privilege and responsibility that has been entrusted to you. Go forth and proclaim the Gospel, that all may come to know the love and salvation of our Lord Jesus Christ.
May Our Lady of Guadalupe continue to guide and protect you in your ministry.
