Blessings on the Class of 2022 Raptors

Blessings on the Class of 2022 Raptors

By Parvathy Nair '22

On the morning of Friday, October 16th, the Class of 2022 Orange & Light Blue Raptors gathered to virtually attend our junior blessing. This annual ceremony is a tradition at ND that celebrates the junior class becoming upperclasswomen, and outlines the many responsibilities that come along with this role. As juniors, we are expected to step up and take a more active approach in school and in our individual communities, as well as become role models for the classes that come after us. 

During the event, student and faculty speakers discussed each of the hallmarks that define a Notre Dame education, with the main focus being on togetherness and community. During our two years at ND, the Raptors as a class have exemplified these themes through our acts of community service and advocacy. As Ms.Quiazon and Principal Riley guided us through prayer, we were each called to think about how we have continued to support and reach out to our community and friends during this pandemic. While we aren’t able to physically meet, we were encouraged to find other ways to volunteer virtually and keep in touch with our friends. 

We ended our junior blessing with a small reflection on the state of the country right now. Just as Saint Julie Billiart did, we will all be able to overcome the present challenges and troubles coming our way and turn them into something beautiful and rewarding. As a token to help us remember, each of us received a sunflower charm necklace.