The Opening Mass for 2009 was the first event of the Cerntennial Year. Nearly 1300 people filled the auditorium for the mass, some watching a live video feed in the Atrium.

The mass celebrated the start of the school year with fine musicianship from the school orchestra and singers. It focussed on this year's goal of "a deep respect for intellectual values" , the symbol being the wise New Zealand owl, Ruru or morepork, miniatures of which were placed in front of the altar.  There was also a stong theme of welcoming into the Baradene community.  Each Year 7 girl was greeted by a Year 13 girl and gifts exchanged.  School houses processed under their colours which further brought the new girls into the  spirit of the school.

Amongst the many highlights was the blessing of the Ceremonial Cross which will be an integral part of future liturgies.

At the conclusion of the mass parents and students socialised outside, enjoying pastries, sausages, coffee and, most welcome, cold drinks and iceblocks.  Even the light summer rain added to the event, cooling the record temperatures of the day