Sacred Heart High School in Yonkers held its commencement exercises on Friday in Monastery Church of the Sacred Heart.

Celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2024. School President Rev. Robert Abbatiello, O.F.M. Cap. invited Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York, to preside over the graduation ceremony.

During his commencement speech to the assembly, Cardinal Dolan said this ceremony is abouta lot of things,but said it is mostly about love.

“The very core of existence,” he said, “is not some black hole, not a swirl of random atoms, but a beating heart, the Sacred Heart of Jesus.”

He continued, “… life has purpose, life has a goal: love, now and forever.”His Eminence joined Principal Kyle O’Donnell and Fr. Abbatiello to hand out the diplomas. He congratulated the students and took time to pose for official photos with each one.

During the commencement exercises medals and awards were given to students for excellence in many fields of study,such as math, science and theology.

This year’s graduating class included 50 students who will go on to pursue their education at colleges and universities around the country.

Members of the 2024 class received $15 million in total college scholarships.

Cardinal Dolan offered the final blessing and then congratulated and greeted people during the recessional.

Celebrations continued outside as families took photos with their graduates in their caps and gowns, holding their diplomas.

The joy was palpable as these students celebrated their achievements and now look to the future.

See the full report in the video above.