Christian Johnson embraces professor Peggy Tillman after St. Catharine College’s graduation ceremony May 14 in Springfield, Ky. (CNS photo/courtesy St. Catharine College)

The transition from one phase of life to the next, especially after graduation, offers the opportunity for reflection and our package from partner Catholic News Service presents some fruitful ways to do just that.

Recent graduates describe service in ‘gap years’
Before starting higher education or working, the experiences of volunteering for a year can shape recent graduates’ worldviews and faith lives. Three grads tell how their lives were enriched helping others.

A prayer for graduates
The grueling exams are finished but ahead lies a whole new set of tests and challenges, surprises and gifts. Effie Caldarola writes a prayer that graduates would do well to offer to the Lord as they reach a turning point in life.

Sage advice for graduates: Read books
Noted columnist Peggy Noonan told Catholic University of America graduates that not only will reading — not just watching screens — help them think deeply and lead well, but “civilization depends on it.”