“For all that has been – THANKS!

Yesterday the two Marianist high schools celebrated their Baccalaureate Mass in the morning. In the afternoon, over 800 students graduated from our two schools with the usual pomp and circumstance that accompanies a high school graduation.

So many faculty, students, parents, and others gave of their time and effort to make this day successful. We are grateful for the spirit of the gifts because these are gifts that not only raised our spirits, but also raised the day.

For past and present gifts, we are deeply grateful.
For new gifts, we are hopeful.
In the words of Dag Hammarskjöld, “For all that has been – THANKS! For all that will be – YES!”

And so we give thanks for so many things.

It is just fitting that we give thanks to almighty God for all. The psalmist speaks boldly of gratefulness.

 The heavens declare the glory of God;
the sky proclaims its builder's craft.

One day to the next conveys that message;
one night to the next imparts that knowledge.

There is no word or sound; no voice is heard;
Yet their report goes forth through all the earth,
their message, to the ends of the world.
God has pitched there a tent for the sun;
it comes forth like a bridegroom from his chamber,
and like an athlete joyfully runs its course.


From one end of the heavens it comes forth;
its course runs through to the other; nothing escapes its heat.
The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul.
The decree of the LORD is trustworthy, giving wisdom to the simple.
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart.
The command of the LORD is clear, enlightening the eye.
The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever.

The statutes of the LORD are true, all of them just;
More desirable than gold, than a hoard of purest gold,
Sweeter also than honey or drippings from the comb.
By them your servant is instructed; obeying them brings much reward.

Who can detect heedless failings?
Cleanse me from my unknown faults.
But from willful sins keep your servant; let them never control me.
Then shall I be blameless, innocent of grave sin.
Let the words of my mouth meet with your favor,
keep the thoughts of my heart before you, LORD, my rock and my redeemer.