On Friday, May 25, 62 Incarnate Word Academy seniors completed their high school journey at the altar of the Corpus Christi Cathedral. A week later, on June 2, 96 seniors from Blessed John Paul II High School will do the same.
Catholic high schools in the Diocese of Corpus Christi traditionally hold their commencement ceremonies at the Cathedral. This year, the setting has a special significance as the Diocese of Corpus Christi is in the midst of its Centennial Jubilee celebration.
Bishop Wm. Michael Mulvey will celebrate the Baccalaureate Mass for both schools.
The IWA commencement ceremony featured speakers were class Salutatorian Julia Baker and Valedictorian Matthew Matl.
As part of the graduation ceremony, IWA candidates presented roses to their parents in appreciation for their support throughout their childhood. The IWA Class of 2012 also presented Bishop Mulvey with a rose in appreciation for celebrating the Baccalaureate Mass, conferring diplomas and also for his leadership of the diocese.
The Bishop, along with Principal Jose Torres, and Incarnate Word Sisters, Martha O’Gara, Judith Marie Saenz, and Raquel Newman, conferred the diplomas to each graduating scholar.
Blessed John Paul II Valedictorian Shelby Hathorn and Salutatorian Alexis Ybanez will speak at their school’s ceremony.