ABBEY CHRISTIAN BROTHERS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL - The Abbey ...

Dear Students,
Some years ago we embarked on an initiative to mark the ‘coming of age’ of our Seventh
Year students. And the general consensus among Staff, Students and Parents alike is that the
‘graduation’ ceremony has proven to be tremendously worthwhile on so many levels. In large
part, for students, of course, it is a joyous occasion, marking the completion of your formal
education at second level. For many too, no doubt, there is a great sense of anticipation as
you relish the opportunities that await you in life. But it is also a poignant moment. At the
parting of the ways there is often a sense of sadness as friendships and bonds cultivated
over seven years come to an end. Indeed, for some, there will be a feeling of trepidation as
you make the transition from the homely environment of the Abbey to your next destination
in life. Rest assured, however, of our continued interest in your welfare.
Today’s graduation ceremony is a celebration in many respects. As a school, we want to
record our appreciation of your achievements, individually and collectively. You have brought
great credit on yourselves, both in the academic sphere and in your extracurricular pursuits.
This year’s MacRory and Hogan Cup successes will live long in Abbey folklore, and deservedly
so.
As students educated in the ethos of the Christian Brothers, we hope to have imbued in
you the sense of community, self sacrifice and care for the less well off that characterises
an Edmund Rice school. The manner in which this year group embraced the ‘Social Outreach’
programme with a generosity of spirit, helping the disadvantaged, has been a great source
of inspiration, embodying ‘care, compassion and community’. Thanks to your efforts as a role
model in this respect, we hope to broaden the opportunities for future generations of Abbey
students to make a contribution to the society that has served them so well.
To conclude, it is my great honour on behalf of the Abbey Christian Brothers’ Grammar
School to bid you a fond farewell. May you utilise your God-given talents to the full and take
your place as leaders in a society where human dignity is cherished and social justice
prevails.
Slán agus beannacht libh,
Mr Dermot McGovern
Headmaster
ABBEY Christian Brothers’ Grammar School
GRADUATION 2006