The Class of 2019, family, friends, and Brother Martin faculty came together for the 2019 Brother Martin Graduation Mass. This solemn event took place at St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square on Sunday, May 19, 2019. Brother Martin Chaplain, Fr. Paul Hart ’70 was the Celebrant for this special occasion for the Class of 2019.
During the introduction, Hunter Dunn ’19 noted, “As graduates in a Brothers of the Sacred Heart School, we strongly believe that God loves us. We are willing to respond to Jesus’ directive to love one another. Tonight, we pledge to be compassionate, to act for justice, and to care genuinely for others. Tonight, we honor the legacy of Fr. André Coindre, founder of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, whose charism serves as a foundation in Brother Martin education. We celebrate those years of formation in the context of spiritual growth and religious values.”
After communion, Brother Martin President Greg Rando ’77 provided a reflection in which he challenged the seniors to use their various gifts and services to live up to their potential as graduates of Brother Martin High School. Mr. Rando reminded the students of Father Coindre’s most beloved scripture passage, “when Jesus explaining a parable to Peter and his disciples, says, ‘I have come to set the world on fire, and I wish it were already burning.’ Coindre used this quotation when speaking to the first Brothers of the Sacred Heart to encourage them in leading with zeal as they tried to gain a foothold in their ministry of forming young men to good.”
Following Mr. Rando’s reflection, a commissioning service for the Class of 2019, was led by Principal Ryan Gallagher ’00, with the seniors renewing vows of continuing to live out the mission of Brother Martin as they move on to the next phase of their lives. In conclusion, each senior received a small Brothers of the Sacred Heart escutcheon —a coat of arms—identifying the Brothers of the Sacred Heart and a special Brother Martin rosary.
“On a personal note, gentlemen, we have been blessed by the Class of 2019. In so many ways, you showed our whole school community a spirit of cooperation, of generosity, of support, and of service unequaled. Your presence has made our school a better place and has served as an outstanding model to our younger students of how to act in times of distress and in times of joy. This year has been a special one in terms of your spirit and service, and on behalf of the faculty and staff, we thank you. Always remember to protect the shield with courage and confidence. We are so proud to call you Crusaders.
Finally, members of the Class of 2019, continue making great memories through your experiences and connections to Brother Martin. After graduation on Friday night, you won’t see each other again very often unless you make that happen. Extend your friendships and your support beyond your graduation date. “Come back home” to Brother Martin. I extend that invitation again. As eager as you are to look to your future, please keep an eye on your past—your family, your friends, your mentors and teachers. Don’t walk out of Brother Martin at graduation on Friday night. Take us with you. Ametur Cor Jesu.” – Mr. Greg Rando
Graduation will take place at the UNO Lakefront Arena on Friday, May 24, 2019 at 6:00 p.m.
Ametur Cor Jesu! Ametur Cor Mariae!
