Red Bank Catholic High School, Red Bank

Red Bank Catholic principal Robert Abatemarco smiles as he leads the RBC Class of 2021 at their Commencement May 27.

 Red Bank Catholic

High School

RBC grads encouraged to ‘persevere in Jesus’ way’

BY CHRISTINA LESLIE  Correspondent

The 185 members of Red Bank Catholic High School’s Class of 2021 celebrated before family and friends during a Baccalaureate Mass and Graduation Exercises held outdoors May 27 on Monmouth University’s Kessler Stadium, West Long Branch.

Msgr. Joseph N. Rosie, pastor of St. James Parish, Red Bank, served as principal celebrant of the Mass; the parish’s parochial vicars Father Daison Areepparampil and Father Vincente Magdaraog, concelebrated. In his homily, Msgr. Rosie reflected on the number of Commandments, challenging the belief that the number 10 was correct.

“In my book, 10 isn’t the right answer. Jesus took the 10 and added a few more to that list,” Msgr. Rosie said. “The one he repeated most often was ‘do not be afraid.’”

You are called to be light and salt to the world on our journey, he told the students, and must help others to persevere in Jesus’ way.

“We may want to celebrate our uniqueness, for we all come with different gifts. You may think you did it your way, but that’s not what RBC is about,” he reminded the teens. “You must discover Jesus’ way, learn what it means to work together. Be that light, that salt. Share it with all who cross your path.”

Following the Mass, and befitting the school’s Irish heritage, a bagpiper led the faculty and staff back onto the field; and the class of graduating Caseys, robed in green and gold, returned to their seats to the strains of Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance.” Red Bank Catholic’s associate principal, Karen Falco, and athletic director, Joseph Montano, assisted principal Robert Abatemarco in the

Msgr. Joseph N. Rosie receives the gifts during the offertory of the Baccalaureate Mass for Red Bank Catholic

on May 27. John Batkowski photos

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___________________  __________________ “I want to thank all of our parents, family members, and friends. Without your sacrifices and support, we would not be wearing these caps and gowns. Thank you for being our biggest fans at every game, performance...and in life.” Daniella Gangemi, valedictorian ___________________  __________________

RED BANK 

Graduates: 185 Baccalaureate Mass & Commencement: May 27, 2021 Ocean First Bank Center, Monmouth University, West Long Branch Scholarships Received: $31.1 million

Valedictorian: Daniella Gangemi

Salutitorian: Olivia Morin Bishop Ahr Award: Andrew Simoes