Campus community gathers for the Mass of the Holy Spirit to pray for God’s blessings

“Every new year Caldwell University experiences a new Pentecost,” said Father Andrew Njoku, the celebrant at the Mass of the Holy Spirit on the University’s campus Sept. 13. Speaking of Caldwell’s rich diversity—with students of many cultures and backgrounds—Father Njoku told members of the campus community that they are being empowered to do great things, like Jesus Christ’s Apostles did. God, he said, is calling them to put their talents and gifts to work and to “use them for the greater glory of God.” 

The  Mass of the Holy Spirit is a tradition at Catholic universities and colleges at the beginning of the academic year to ask for God’s blessing and wisdom.

The lectors were students Benjamin Fernandez and Leo Leberatto and School of Education faculty member Barbara Kivlon.

Blessings were led by Christina Bryant, director of campus ministry, for groups of students including athletes, residence life assistants, student government officers and the chorale. 

Following Mass, President Jeffrey D. Senese, Ph.D., shared the poem “Putting in the Seed” by Robert Frost. He encouraged members of the campus community to dedicate themselves to the University’s core values, “and as we do so, we will be a blessing to those we encounter throughout the year.” 

“Your presence and prayers,” said Dr. Senese, “strengthen the University.”

Fernandez appreciated how coming together with others at Mass on campus provides an opportunity for community and peace and “helps us be in touch with our core values of the University and the core values of Catholicism.” Sophomore Kristina Hilla, a member of the chorale, was happy to witness the prayers of blessing for the student groups—“to support others.” 

The music was provided by the CU chorale under the direction of music faculty member Laura Greenwald; Tatyana Rodriguez was the cantor and Eric Olsen the accompanist.