On Sunday, April 16, 185 mothers and daughters gathered at the Drake Hotel in Oak Brook for Mass and high tea hosted by the Benet Academy Mothers’ Club. The event celebrated motherhood and the friendships shared between the women of the Benet Academy community. 

The Mass was opened with a Marian procession led by the senior girls, who were highlighted throughout the high tea. Accompanied by beautiful music from the girls Mass Choir, Father Ivan and Deacon Christopher celebrated Mass. During Mass, Father Ivan blessed rosaries for every mother and daughter. 

After the Mass, the senior girls each received a flower and a letter from the juniors. The seniors also shared their favorite Benet Academy memories and gave valuable advice to the other girls. 

Tea was served, along with a speech from motivational speaker, author, entrepreneur, and pilot Jacqueline Ruiz. Mrs. Ruiz shared her inspirational life story and a testimony to the value of faith in her life. After her speech, Mrs. Ruiz gave each girl a pilot’s badge as a reminder of her message that “faith is your wings.”

Junior Ella Reiser, who attended the event, said,  “The brunch and high tea were organized very well, and I had a great time with my friends and our moms. The Mass, said by Fr. Ivan and Deacon Christopher, was also beautiful. The event made me feel so much closer to my mom and all the other women there.” 

Overall, the Mother Daughter Mass and High Tea successfully brought the women of Benet Academy together in faith and friendship.