On Dec. 8, the Regina Dominican community gathered in the newly renovated AUD for the mass of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary and to bless the seniors’ rings. On this very special  day, Most Reverend John R. Manz Auxiliary Bishop, Vicariate IV Archdiocese of Chicago was the celebrant along with Deacon John X. Rottman.

At the beginning of the mass, seniors processed into the AUD wearing their graduation caps and gowns. Then several siblings of the future graduates, including Liliana D’Agostino ’20, Ashely Richards ’20, and Grace Wilson ’19, explained the senior class symbols. The class symbols included a year book, crown, and a star.

Some of the seniors, including Isabella D’Agostino, Samantha Koutnik, Nora Loftus, Allison Svachula, Kelsey MacBain, and Kelly Richards, participated in the mass by reading or bringing up the gifts.

Towards the middle of the mass, Bishop John R. Manz performed a special blessing for the seniors class rings. He specifically wished them luck in the future and congratulated them on all their hard work. Then, the seniors recited a response to the blessing in which they thanked God and the Regina Dominican community for guiding them through their four years of high school. In addition, they prayed that their rings would serve as momentous to the Dominican Chrism of prayer, study, community, and service.

Before mass ended, Lauren Murphy ’17 shared her Ring Day Reflection. She discussed her memories, growth, and her new friends she made at Regina. Later in her speech, Murphy discussed the importance of the symbols she put on her ring. Lastly, she wished all her classmates the best of luck in their future.

To end this special day for the seniors, the Sophomore Class Leadership Board hosted a reception for the seniors and their parents in the cafeteria.  Overall, the Ring Mass was a very successful ceremony and was just one of the first milestone of the seniors journey to graduation.

Congrats seniors!