Bishop Thompson's Message For 2016 Graduates

CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATIONS

Diocese of Evansville

May 2016  

            As some of you may be aware, the Diocese of Evansville is rolling out a new mission statement along with a pastoral plan that includes goals, objectives and action steps.  This is a way of being aware of who we are, what we are about, where we want to be and how we get there or make that happen.  In other words, it is somewhat of an intentional roadmap for the “who, what and how” of being.  As you complete this particular chapter of your lives with high school graduation, I encourage you to consider your own mission statement.  Every life has meaning and purpose, but many of us spend our entire lives trying to realize that very fact.  You might even want to consider some particular goals, objectives and action steps as you move forward in life.  

            Your life has meaning, it has purpose. Created in the image of God, there is something of the divine in each of us.  To fully appreciate the gift of life, to fully realize your own true potential, it is important to be intentional about the “who, what and how” of your being.   Have you ever thought of what a mission statement of your life…a basic snapshot of your own identity and dignity…might look like?  Have you ever considered any goals in life…short-term…long-term…this life and/or the next?  Before beginning a journey, it is good to know where one wants to go and how one intends to get there.  While no one plans to fail, many fail to plan.

            I encourage you to be deliberate and intentional about your lives, relationships and destiny. This is not to say that you need to be controlling, obsessive or scrupulous.  Rather, you need to discern and cooperate with the will of God.  Ultimately, God created you for a reason.  Jesus Christ suffered, died and rose for your salvation.  We have been given the Holy Spirit to guide us along the journey of life, of faith.  Take time for prayer, both personal and communal, to know God’s will.  Dare to make the most of the Catholic education you have already received for the benefit of others, loving God and neighbor.  Dare to be courageous, humble and generous with your gifts and talents.  Following the roadmap that Jesus has provided for you in and through the mission entrusted to the Church, settle for nothing short of the goal the Lord has in mind for you; namely, Eternal Life!