The Valete Mass for the graduates of 2025 was held on Wednesday 24 September. Celebrated by College Rector, OIU Patron and fellow old boy Fr Tom Renshaw SJ (OR1990) and fellow old boy Father Joe Dooley SJ (OR1968). 

Of great significance, the Valete Mass represents the completion of each boys spiritual and academic journey at the College and their transition to broader society. It is also the symbolic handing back of the boys to their parents, who entrusted their sons to a Jesuit education at Saint Ignatius College 6-8 years ago, for them to continue the journey of faith and service together. A poignant moment in the mass is the presentation of the crucifix, which symbolises the journey of faith taken so far but more importantly the personal responsibility of each man to continue this journey. 

For the last two years, Fr Tom has kindly allowed the OIU to also play a role at this important event with the handing out of the OIU ties. 

Below is the brief address I gave at the mass: 

"Father Tom Renshaw, Principal Mark Tannock, esteemed guests and the Class of 25.

Tonight's Valete Mass marks a pivotal moment in your journey at Saint Ignatius' College Riverview. 

It symbolises the transition from the boys you arrived as 6-8 years ago to the men you have become, ready to step into the broader world. 

You are currently part of a large and caring community, which today is represented by your teachers and classmates. As you complete your transition over the next few weeks, this community will evolve to become the 8,000+ strong alumni of Saint Ignatius' College Riverview. Founded in 1897, The Old Ignatians Union exists to keep this bond strong. Guided by the Jesuit principle of cura personalis—care for the whole person—we are committed to engaging, connecting, supporting, and serving our members and the wider community. 

To welcome you into this community, I would ask that your parents reach into the gift bag, take out the Old Ignatians tie and present it for you to wear from this moment on. On behalf of the OIU, I would like to congratulate you all on reaching this important milestone, I wish you all the best for your exams and in all your future endeavours" 

Overall it was a wonderful event. I would like to again wish the young men of 2025 the best for their exams and thank Fr Tom for allowing us to participate in the Mass.