Students, faculty, staff and administrators gathered today at St. Aedan’s: The Saint Peter’s University Church to worship together at the Mass of the Holy Spirit, which traditionally marks the beginning of the academic year. The Mass involved members of the campus community standing to affirm their commitment to love, generosity and social justice.
Celebrant Rev. Michael L. Braden, S.J., vice president for mission and ministry at Saint Peter’s University, asked for the Lord’s blessing for the year, saying, “We pray today that our faith will teach us to be ‘men and women for others.’”
Director of Campus Ministry Rev. Rocco Danzi, S.J., echoed these sentiments during his homily, stating, “There’s so much to be thankful for today. As we begin this new academic year, we invite our University family and friends to call out to the Holy Spirit for guidance in the year to come.”
During the Mass, Associate Professor of Political Science Anna Brown, Ph.D., alumna Carmel Galasso ’79 and student Melissa-Ann Emmanuel ’16 presented their reflections on the gospel, often quoting Pope Francis and paying special attention to the Jesuit principles of Magis and cura personalis.
“Here at Saint Peter’s, a diverse community enriches us,” said Dr. Brown. “We have the opportunity to live as ‘men and women for others’ in a diverse environment.”
Afterward, University President Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., delivered the Invitation to Rededication, where he asked members of student clubs and organizations, student-athletes, faculty, administration and staff to stand and pledge their commitment to service and compassion.
“We ask you, O God, to guide the work of Saint Peter’s University in the months ahead,” he said. “Send your Spirit upon us as you send us forth this year. Fill us with your wisdom and compassion. Grant that we may devote ourselves to our studies, our teaching and our service – and share what we have learned from you and from one another.”
For Dayana Arrufat Rondon ’15, it was her first time attending Mass at Saint Peter’s. “I wanted to see how it was,” she said. “With the music and environment, it was interesting and different than anything back home.”
Meredith Przybocki ’17 was surprised at how many people had come together for this very special event. “It gives me an experience of seeing all different cultures,” she said.
Following the Mass, a barbecue was held in Panepinto Plaza, where the campus community continued the celebration.
