For the past 25 years, the Diocese of Covington has held a Mass to bring together seniors from all nine high schools to worship.

The bishop, the Rev. Roger J. Foys, is the celebrant assisted by the priests of the diocese.

Matt Krebs, a teacher at Covington Latin School, said the liturgy "celebrates the seniors' leadership roles in school and in church."

Kathleen Michels, educational consultant for the diocese, helped coordinate the Mass.

"It's a way the seniors in the diocese can come together ... it's a way to start new friendships, and rekindle some," Michels said.

As students filed in, each carrying a school banner, the congregation of seniors sang the opening hymn, "One Spirit, One Church."

Representatives from each school were involved in the Mass, doing readings and petitions, helping with the offertory or singing.

Students offered examples of how they are called to worship: giving time at agencies and organizations such as the Parish Kitchen, Catholic Social Services or at Redwood School and Rehabilitation Center.

Students read, "We strive to live Gospel values. ... We are the eyes and ears of Christ. ... We are committed to reverence and peace."

Schools in attendance were Bishop Brossart High School, Covington Catholic High School, Covington Latin School, Holy Cross District High School, Newport Central Catholic, Notre Dame Academy, St. Henry District High School, St. Patrick High School in Maysville, and Villa Madonna Academy.

Villa Madonna seniors Nick Hamilton, Michael Carrico and Mary Ann Moore took part in the procession. The group said the Mass is a way to unify the seniors.

"This brings the seniors together," Carrico said. "It connects us with other Christian leaders."

One of their teachers, Therese Burden, said the Mass offers high hopes for their futures.

"We hope (students) continue their leadership into their higher education," she said.

"It gets us ready to lead the community," Hamilton said. "We take what we learn here to college."

Bishop Foys reminded students of their importance in the community.

"Along with the honor of being a senior, who younger students look up to, comes the responsibility of being a good leader, a good example, a good witness," he said.

"Jesus doesn't just see our faults and failures, he sees the potential in us - sometimes when we don't even see it in ourselves. ... We're all priceless in the Lord's eyes."

The bishop left students with a lofty task.

"The Lord has called on you, on your God-given talents, to build up his kingdom in your own school, community, and family. You are the future of our community, this country and this church," he said.

"Seeing you all here praying with one voice, I see the future is bright."

E-mail aremke@enquirer.com