Sir, - I could not disagree more with the views expressed by Mr Noel Casey (June 9th) when he states that having a Mass as the centre of graduation ceremonies is becoming a sham for many pupils.
I have just witnessed the wholehearted participation of over 130 pupils at our recent graduation Mass. Their enormous enthusiasm and thorough preparation for the Mass made it a very moving and spiritual occasion for pupils, staff and parents. In my experience, young people when given the opportunity to be involved in shaping liturgy have a lot to offer and are more than willing to participate.
Graduation from secondary school is a very significant moment in the lives of young people and surely it is appropriate that, as at so many other significant occasions in our lives, we mark it by joining together in the celebration of the Eucharist. - Yours, etc.,
Siobhan Corry, Principal, St Joseph's College, Presentation Convent, Lucan, Co Dublin.