国产传媒

The Mount Saint Mary’s University community gathered on September 14 to celebrate the Mass of the Holy Spirit, a 1000-year-old tradition in the Catholic Church, dating to the first universities in Europe to celebrate the beginning of the academic year. 

Over 600 students, faculty and staff filled St. Joseph Chapel at Carondelet Center, near the Chalon Campus, a residency of the Sisters of St. Joseph (CSJs), the University’s Founders. Some CSJs were in attendance as well and had the opportunity to partake in the celebration.

Mount Saint Mary’s President Ann McElaney-Johnson, PhD, reflected on the University’s Founders, a group of bold visionary women who sought to establish an institution of higher learning in 1925 where women could become leaders dedicated to service, justice and knowledge.

“As we begin this new academic year, I ask you to bring your authentic self to the work of this year and to share your gifts generously. Each of us belongs here, and this community is gifted by your presence,” said President McElaney-Johnson.

Hosted by Campus Ministry and Spirituality, the ceremony begins by laying upon the altar a lace cloth from Le Puy, France, where the Sisters of St. Joseph were founded in 1650. This cloth represents the very foundation of Mount Saint Mary’s. Other cloths are placed later upon the altar, from countries and cultures throughout the world, honoring and representing the great diversity of the Mount community.

“I think this Mass portrays the diversity of this University and the many ways that we can use our individual gifts to be part of something bigger. From the choir to lectors, to dancers to ushers, I love that so many people from our Mount community can be involved in one big event,” said Julia Zaldivar ’21, a staff member of Campus Ministry and Spirituality.

The ceremony was followed by a community lunch served at the Chalon Circle, where students, staff and faculty had the opportunity to mingle and have fun before heading back to their regular schedules.