Graduating students of West Visayas State University (WVSU) Class of 2026 participated in separate faith-centered gatherings on June 4 as part of the University’s commencement activities, reflecting on their academic journey and preparing for the next chapter of their lives through prayer, thanksgiving, and spiritual reflection.
Held simultaneously at the WVSU Cultural Center and the College of Medicine Auditorium, the Baccalaureate Mass and Eucharistic Celebration for Catholic graduates and the Baccalaureate Service for non-Catholic graduates provided members of the Class of 2026 an opportunity to gather in their respective faith communities ahead of the University’s recognition and commencement ceremonies.
The two events were organized by the College of Nursing in partnership with its faith-based student organizations, namely the Catholic Student Nurses Association and the Nurses Christian Fellowship-WVSU Chapter.
Carrying the theme “Faithful Hearts, Guided Futures,” the Baccalaureate Mass and Eucharistic Celebration brought together Catholic graduates for a morning of worship and thanksgiving at the WVSU Cultural Center. The liturgical celebration followed the traditional order of the Mass, including the Liturgy of the Word, homily, offertory, Holy Communion and the blessing of graduates.
Dr. Celina Cordero-Gellada, dean of the College of Medicine, delivered the first reading, while representatives from the University’s colleges led the Prayers of the Faithful, offering petitions for the graduates, their families, the University and the communities they will serve.
The celebration concluded with a special blessing for the graduates, emphasizing the values of faith, service and stewardship as they prepare to enter their chosen professions.
Meanwhile, non-Catholic graduates gathered at the College of Medicine Auditorium for the Baccalaureate Service themed “Faithful Beginnings, Fruitful Endings.” The program featured worship songs, scripture reading, prayer and personal testimony, creating a space for reflection and gratitude as graduates looked back on their years at the University.
A special number by the Nurses Christian Fellowship Chorale highlighted themes of compassion, purpose and service, while Rev. Danny Balm Escobar, senior pastor of Doane Baptist Church, delivered the graduation message, encouraging graduates to remain steadfast in their values and convictions as they pursue their future endeavors.
The service also included a message to the graduates from Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension, who conveyed the University’s congratulations and encouragement to the graduating class. A response from the graduates followed, expressing appreciation for the support and opportunities that shaped their academic experience.
Both gatherings concluded with prayers and blessings for the graduates, underscoring the University’s recognition of faith as an important source of strength, guidance and inspiration throughout the educational journey.
As the Class of 2026 prepares to receive their degrees, the simultaneous celebrations served as moments of thanksgiving and reflection, affirming the graduates’ accomplishments while encouraging them to carry forward the values they cultivated during their years at WVSU.
Through the efforts of the College of Nursing and its student organizations, the gatherings provided graduates with meaningful opportunities to honor their faith traditions and celebrate the culmination of their academic pursuits alongside fellow members of the graduating class.
