Many have heard the expression "to pass the torch". This idiom alludes to the ancient Greek torch race, in which a lighted torch was passed from one runner to the next, as replicated in the modern day Olympic opening ceremonies. It means to relinquish responsibilities, a tradition, practice, or knowledge to another.
The SMS Class of 2024 did just that this past week, as they passed the responsibility of being leaders of the school on to the Class of 2025. Each 8th grade class assumes the role of school leadership, when they step through the doors on the first day of their 8th grade year at SMS. Over the course of the year they grow and mature into young adults and disciples of Christ. Through service projects they learn to honor others above themselves and be faithful stewards of God's grace. Through their pursuit of knowledge in their academic studies they enrich their minds & test their limits until they reach their full potential. They strive to carry out their faith each day in their thoughts, words, and deeds. They become the eldest in our school family, the older "siblings", the Mass buddies, the ones who our younger students look up to and emulate. And lastly they carry on our strong traditions that have been developed over the past 175 years.
At the beginning of Mass, the Class of 2024 presented their class symbols; a group of objects that they feel personifies them as a class. Their symbols included:
A Crucifix - to remind the class of their religious growth and their promise to God
A Class Photo - to represent the friendships and memories they have made
Giant Feet- a memento from the 8th Grade Relays during Spirit Week. The feet symbolize the footsteps they leave behind in the hallway for the incoming 8th grade class to fill, and the footprints of God as He guides us all through life.
A Chromebook- Distance learning began in the Spring of the Class of 2024's 4th grade year. Chromebooks kept them connected with friends and teachers during the global pandemic.
A Statue of Mary- the patron saint of our school is displayed in each and every one of the SMS classrooms. Mary watches over us all through joy, laughter, tears, and struggles, and reminds us to live a life of grace and mercy.
A Campobello’s Menu- a reminder of the privileges they enjoyed as 8th graders. Every other month the class was allowed to order out for lunch! This was a fun privilege that also helped prepare the students to account for money, split a bill, and figure out sales tax as they learn to manage finances.
A Collection bin - a symbol of all the service projects the class has completed over the course of this year. Whether it was collecting money to save endangered animals, adopting a grandparent at a nursing home, providing babysitting services, or creating Jared Boxes for patients at Roswell Park, the 8th graders worked hard to make a difference in the world around them this year.
A Book- serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking knowledge. When they started their educational journeys by learning how to count, make sounds, and identify letters and basic words, they had no idea they'd now be able to conduct research across different subjects, have in-depth discussions about symbolism and meaning, practice self-reflection, solve algebraic equations, and more.
At the end of the Mass, Father Art thanked the parents & parishioners in attendance for the sacrifices they have made to allow Catholic education to continue at St. Mary School. He noted that these members of the Class of 2024, and the soon-to-be- 8th graders to whom they are "passing the torch" are the future leaders of our church, and next generation of Catholic families in our pews.
Then, as their parents looked on proudly and tearfully, the Class of 2024 lit candles, and passed their light on to the Class of 2025 as they stood at the altar together. Congratulations to the Class of 2024! As your 8th grade year is quickly coming to a close, may you keep this verse in your hearts:
"In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in Heaven." - Matthew 5:16
Click here to see photos from the Mass of Hope celebration & reception.