The Higher School Certificate (HSC) is a pivotal time in a young person’s life. It often comes with intense pressure, high expectations and sometimes even anxiety about the future.
Catholic Youth Parramatta, in collaboration with parishes and youth ministry leaders across the Diocese, are once again extending their support to Year 12 students through a series of special HSC Masses from 4-6 and 11-13 October.
Held across various parishes, the HSC Masses serve as a key moment for students, their families, and the wider Catholic community to unite in prayer and faith.
These Masses are about more than simply praying for success – they provide a sense of community and accompaniment for young people as they prepare to face this significant milestone in their academic journeys, while offering a reminder of our God who supports us, guides us, and walks with us in each moment of our lives.
During these Masses, students will receive a special blessing, aimed at equipping them with the grace and peace they need to navigate their exams with confidence and calmness.
Many students can feel isolated or overwhelmed during exam preparation, and coming together in prayer helps to build a sense of solidarity. Students are reminded that they are not walking this journey alone – God is with them, as well as their Catholic community.
The HSC Masses also foster a deep connection not only among the students, but between them and the people supporting them too. Parents, teachers and other community members are encouraged to attend these Masses to show their support and solidarity. This is a powerful symbol of unity within the Catholic community, demonstrating that faith and trust in God remain strong, even in moments of stress or uncertainty.
Year 12 student leaders and executives from Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese and the Diocese of Parramatta at the 2024 LIFTED Breakfast with the Bishop at the Novotel West HQ, Rooty Hill. Image: Alphonsus Fok/Diocese of Parramatta
Amid the busyness of study schedules, extracurricular commitments, and exam preparations, the HSC Masses provide a valuable opportunity for students to pause and reflect. These Masses offer sacred time for students to step back from the noise and pressure of exams and re-centre themselves, reminding them that their worth and identity is not rooted in results or achievements.
In a message to HSC students, Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta, assures them of his prayers and support as they approach this important milestone in their lives.
“Preparing for HSC exams, waiting for results and negotiating expectations can be stressful,” he explained, “I pray that the Holy Spirit accompanies you with his gift of wisdom and peace.
“May you find serenity during this time and know that the whole community is with you in prayer.
“God bless you and bring to fruition all your endeavours.”
For all Year 12 students about to embark on their HSC exams, Catholic Youth Parramatta and the Diocese of Parramatta stands beside you, offering prayers, blessings and support. In these HSC Masses, may you find the strength, peace, and faith needed to conquer the challenges ahead with grace.
Find your nearest HSC Mass by visiting the ‘Find a Mass’ section on the Diocese of Parramatta’s website.
Eleanor Bonwick and Sebastian Duhau are MET Facilitators – Catholic Youth Parramatta, part of the Mission Enhancement Team of the Diocese of Parramatta.
