For and with others
September 4, 2025
The Mass of The Holy Spirit, also known as Veni Sancte (Come Holy Spirit in Latin), is a cherished tradition in Catholic schools. It is celebrated close to the start of a new academic year to invoke God’s guidance and wisdom in the coming year. This tradition dates to 1548 at the first Jesuit school, St. Ignatius College in Messina, Sicily. It underscores that education is a fundamental component of the mission of Catholic schools globally. Furthermore, it is a reminder that seeking truth, which is what universities do, is coterminous with seeking God, and that faith and reason can go hand in hand.Taking part in this celebration is one of my favorite things that we do at Xavier every year. Students, faculty, administration, and staff gather to renew their commitment to the Jesuit, Catholic mission of the university and to be reminded that what we seek can only be done together: that in spite our varying roles in this large organism called Xavier University, we are all on the same team. I see the Mass of the Holy Spirit as an opportunity to reflect on the deeper mission of Jesuit, Catholic education, namely, to form men and women for and with others. It is a tall order that we can hardly do on our own without help from above.
Knowledge and wisdom are among the gifts of the Holy Spirit. I find it fitting to take a moment at the beginning of the new academic year to connect with the source of both.
This year, the Mass of the Holy Spirit will be on Monday, September 8, starting at 3:00 pm in Bellarmine Chapel.
Dr. Martin Madar
Associate Professor of Systematic Theology
Co-Director, Institute of Spirituality & Social Justice