Mass of Holy Spirit Marks Start of Academic Year

Caldwell, N.J., Sept. 8, 2016 – Caldwell University held its traditional Mass of the Holy Spirit Sept. 7 marking the beginning of the academic year.

Students, faculty, and staff gathered to thank God for His blessings on the university and to invoke the Holy Spirit’s guidance and inspiration for the campus community.

Father Thomas Blind celebrated the Mass.  “The Spirit of God makes a great difference in our lives,” he said.   “We are brought together as a community to pray with or for one another,” and to use the gifts of the Holy Spirit of courage, knowledge, fortitude, and wisdom, he said.   The Holy Spirit also provides comfort and peace, the peace that one can give to others and the world, said Father Blind.

Special blessings were given to the Student Government Association, the choir, the residence life staff, and fall athletes.    Prior to reading the blessings, President Nancy Blattner asked that those who will be blessed pass it on. “Find a way that you can be a blessing to someone else on this campus.”

Music Professor Laura Greenwald, members of the Caldwell University Chorale, accompanist Warren Helms, and cantor Rebecca Nee provided the music.

The university typically holds a Mass of the Holy Spirit at the beginning of each academic semester.