I “played hooky” this year! When I came out of the hospital in February it wasn’t clear if I would be able to preside at the various Catholic high school graduation Masses throughout the Diocese, so rather than keeping our wonderful Catholic high schools and graduates “on hold,” I asked my episcopal vicars to pitch in. And they did so with the generosity so typical of them! That doesn’t mean, however, that our graduating seniors were “absent” from my thoughts and prayers. Through your Catholic high school websites and social media, and our own websites and social media in The Monitor, I feel like I was right there with you. Beautiful pictures and stories abound!My first wish is that of “congratulations” to all the graduates. Well done!My next wish is “thank you” to your wonderful parents and guardians, who sacrificed mightily so that you could attend Catholic high school in the Diocese of Trenton. The administrators, faculties and staffs of our Catholic high schools are the best around, and they deserve our gratitude – as do all those who encouraged and supported you through these years. I also acknowledge and thank the PTA of our Diocese for 90 years of extraordinary service to parents, students and schools!Finally, I say to the beautiful, bright young women and men of the Diocese, whose Catholic high school days now give way to college or jobs: take your Catholic faith! Hold on to your Catholic faith. Share your Catholic faith on the road ahead of you. The Lord Jesus is your constant companion and best friend along life’s journey. Keep in touch with him as you would any best friend!Trust in God. Believe in yourself. Respect and love others. Don’t forget to go to Mass. It’s all good. Keep it real and rock the world with the Lord by your side!God bless you, your families, your friends … and your future!