Grandparent's Mass
The Grandparent's Mass at Xavier College Prep is a cherished and heartwarming event that honors the special bond between students and their grandparents. This event celebrates the important role grandparents play in the lives of their grandchildren and within the family, offering a day of faith, gratitude, and connection.
Event Highlights
- Warm Welcome: The day begins with a warm and enthusiastic welcome as grandparents arrive on campus. Students greet their grandparents with smiles and hugs, creating an atmosphere of joy and anticipation. Volunteers and staff are on hand to assist and guide guests.
- Celebratory Mass: The centerpiece of the event is a beautiful Mass held in the school chapel or a designated large venue to accommodate all attendees. The Mass is specially tailored to honor grandparents, featuring readings, prayers, and hymns that emphasize family, love, and gratitude. Students often participate as readers, altar servers, and choir members, adding a personal touch to the celebration.
- Homily and Blessing: The homily delivered by the priest focuses on the significance of grandparents in the faith and development of young people. A special blessing is bestowed upon the grandparents, recognizing their wisdom, guidance, and love.
- Student-Grandparent Interaction: After the Mass, there is time set aside for students to spend with their grandparents. This may include a tour of the school, where students proudly show their grandparents their classrooms, favorite spots on campus, and introduce them to teachers and friends.
- Refreshments and Socializing: A reception follows the Mass, featuring refreshments and a light lunch. This provides a relaxed setting for grandparents, students, and other family members to socialize, share stories, and enjoy each other's company.
- Photo Opportunities: To commemorate the special day, photo booths or designated photo spots are set up around the venue. Families can capture cherished moments with professional or candid photos, providing lasting memories of the day.
- Grandparent Recognition: During the reception or as part of the Mass, grandparents are often recognized and celebrated through speeches, performances, or a slideshow highlighting their contributions and the joy they bring to their families and the school community.
Commemorative Keepsakes: As a token of appreciation, grandparents often receive a small keepsake or memento, such as a framed photo, a student-crafted gift, or a school-branded item, to remember the special day spent with their grandchild at Xavier.
Conclusion
The Grandparent's Mass at Xavier College Prep is a heartfelt celebration that strengthens the bonds between students and their grandparents. It is a day filled with faith, love, and gratitude, highlighting the importance of family within the Xavier community. This event not only honors grandparents but also reinforces the values of respect, tradition, and togetherness that are integral to the school's mission.