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 07032025.Web Bishop Dael

Most Reverend Raul B Dael, DD
Bishop, Dioceses of Tandag

Presider & Preacher

Today, we offer this Mass in thanksgiving to the Lord for all the blessings we have received—especially the gift of education. It is fitting to affirm and express our deep appreciation for the collaborative efforts of the entire academic community, together with your parents and significant others, who have helped shape you into the persons you are today.

Before I go further, may I ask: is there anyone among our dear graduates who comes from Surigao del Sur—from the Diocese of Tandag? That’s where I am serving now. But I am originally from the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro. I came from Jasa-an Misamis Oriental. My coming here for this baccalaureate mass is also a thanksgiving for me to Xavier University. I am an alumnus to this institution. I graduated with an AB Philosophy degree in 1988—about 37 years ago. Coming back here is not just an event for me—it is a homecoming of the heart. I said yes to presiding over this Baccalaureate Mass out of deep gratitude. The Jesuits and Xavier University have played such a big part in forming me—not only in my education, but in my vocation as a priest and now as a bishop. What I learned here has shaped how I serve, how I lead, and how I love the Church. So I am here not just as a bishop—but as a fellow graduate, returning to say thank you... and to celebrate this special moment with all of you.

The readings for today’s liturgy beautifully capture the spirit of this celebration. The first reading from the Book of Genesis takes us back to our origins. When God created humankind, He did not merely assemble parts or shape bodies—He breathed into us His very life. It’s a powerful reminder: we were not made just to exist, but to live with depth, purpose, and meaning.

So, you are not simply graduates formed by lectures, labs, and late-night study sessions. You are men and women formed by the Spirit of God, educated in the Jesuit tradition to seek truth, live generously, and serve with compassion.

In Eden, God gave Adam not only a place to live but a vocation: “to cultivate and care for it.” And so, you too are sent to care for this common home—not to dominate or consume it, but to heal it, to cultivate justice, and to contribute to the flourishing of all.

In the Diocese of Tandag, we take this call seriously. Integrity of creation is one of our major advocacies. And we’ve seen what happens when people come together, grounded in faith and love for the land. To date, five mining applications and activities have been stopped—not because of protest alone, but through the collaborative efforts of our people, including young people like you, who understand that caring for the Earth is not an optional concern—it is a moral imperative.

This demands hard work. And St. Paul in our second reading reminds us that work is not just about productivity—it is a witness. He labored honestly so that others might learn by example. He urges us not to live in distraction or disorder, but with integrity, diligence, and purpose.

As Xavier graduates, your education has equipped you not only for employment, but for ethical leadership—to build peace, to think deeply, to serve wisely, and to lead with compassion. You are not merely problem-solvers. You are bridge-builders, truth-seekers, and servant-leaders.

 

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