The Class of 2013 Baccalaureate Mass, which coincided with Pentecost Sunday,  was indeed a special one this year for Academy graduates to remember.

Pentecost Sunday celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles.  Fire as symbolic of inspiration serves as a reminder to all Academy graduates of Founder Blessed Marie Rose Durocher’s favorite verse from Luke 12:49.  “I have come to cast fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled.”

Rev. Robert Cadrecha, Pastor of Corpus Christi, celebrated the Mass.  The Academy Worship Band, directed by Ms. Linda Ruescher, sang Spirit-filled songs such as “Gather Your People” and “Bread of Life” and ending with a rousing “Take the Word of God With You.”

Senior Catherine Young gave the first reading from Acts of the Apostles 2:1-11, followed by Arlyn Barlaan who led the Responsorial Psalm with “Lord, send out your Spiriti, and renew the face of the earth.”

Alex Diaz read the second reading from I Corinthians 12:3 and 12:13.  Marisa Infante presented the intercessions.  Younger sisters of the graduates – Megan Bajo, Mollie Johnson, Natalie Cevallos, and Alex Oliva – served as ushers.