The Grade 12 boys of St Benedict’s College recently had the privilege of gathering with the matriculants of their sister schools, Holy Rosary School and Assumption Convent School for the annual Grade 12 Combined Mass, a meaningful moment of prayer and reflection as the Class of 2026 continues its final year of school.
This year, Holy Rosary School graciously hosted the celebration at St Theresa’s Catholic Church. The Mass offered the matriculants a valuable opportunity to pause amidst the pace and demands of their final school year, to give thanks for the journey that has brought them to this point, and to entrust the months ahead to God’s guidance.
Mass was celebrated by Fr Jonathan, who delivered a thoughtful and engaging homily. Referring to the various pairs of shoes placed on the altar – heels, boots and slops – he reminded the young people that each individual walks a unique path in life. Just as the shoes differed in style and purpose, so too do the journeys that lie before them. During this season of Lent in particular, he encouraged the matriculants to reflect deeply on their own journeys and to remember that, despite their differences, the ultimate goal remains the same: to find our way to the Cross and grow ever closer to God.
Reflecting on the significance of the morning, a staff member from St Benedict’s College shared:
“Moments like these remind our boys that their education is about far more than academic achievement. It is about forming young men of faith, humility and character. As they prepare to leave school, we encourage them to carry the values they have learned here into the world and to be a light to others – using their gifts not for themselves alone, but in service of the communities they will one day lead.”
Following the Mass, the young ladies and gentlemen enjoyed time together over breakfast. Through light-hearted games and conversation, there was much laughter and camaraderie as friendships were strengthened and new connections formed between the matriculants of the three schools.
For the boys of St Benedict’s College, the morning served as a reminder that their final year is not only about academic milestones, but also about continuing to grow as young men of faith, character and service. As the Class of 2026 journeys through the year ahead, moments such as these provide an opportunity to pause, reflect and remain grounded in the values that guide the Benedictine community.
The gathering was thoroughly enjoyed by all; a morning marked by prayer, friendship and shared purpose as these young people begin the final chapter of their school journey and prepare to step forward into adulthood with faith, hope and courage.