Ed. Note: This was a homily for a school mass. Student or not though, we can all relate to the lessons.

In 1925, Mahatma Gandhi published in his newspaper Young India, a list of social sins. Almost 100 years later, now more than ever, these have become very relevant:

• Politics without principles
• Wealth without work
• Pleasure without conscience
• Knowledge without character
• Commerce without morality
• Science without humanity
• Worship without sacrifice.

For those of us in our 50s and older, how can we not be amazed with technology? Any music, movie, information, or food you want, you can get instantly. On the other hand, though, what happened to our value system? What happened to what is right and wrong? What happened to sin?

As we continue through this school year, we ask the guidance of the Holy Spirit not only in learning things but also in seeing through life with the more important questions as brought about by the gifts of the Holy Spirit:

• Wisdom: “Is this important and essential or just passing and fleeting?”
• Understanding: “Yes it can be done, but is it right, and is it moral?”
• Counsel: “Can I explain this to the Lord during judgment day?”
• Fortitude: “Can I stand up for what is right, what is true, or what is good or do I just mind my own business and let evil prevail?”
• Knowledge: “Will this be a blessing all can avail of, especially the poor and the vulnerable?”
• Piety: “Is my faith from the heart or just externals?” 
• Fear of God: “Am I aware that God’s time is different from our time and we must be prepared to come face to face with God?”

We thank God for this school year. We pray most especially for our professors. Their knowledge, wisdom, sacrifices, and passion are not only for this generation but even for the many generations thereafter. For all the students, we pray for seven virtues with the guidance of the Holy Spirit:

• Politics with principles
• Wealth with work
• Pleasure with conscience
• Knowledge with character
• Commerce with morality
• Science with humanity
• Worship with sacrifice