Aug. 30, 2012
In his homily at Catholic University's Mass of the Holy Spirit Aug. 30, Cardinal Donald Wuerl, archbishop of Washington and University chancellor, noted that "our faith is the lens through which we see reality. Once we envision life through that prism, we see things all together differently."
At the Mass, which marked the opening of the 2012-2013 academic year, Cardinal Wuerl reflected on that "lens," which will be the focus of the Church's upcoming Year of Faith, beginning in October. The topic "The New Evangelization for the Transmission of the Christian Faith" will be discussed at the upcoming Synod of Bishops in Rome.
Cardinal Wuerl was principal celebrant and homilist at the annual Mass held in the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception immediately adjacent to campus, with Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, concelebrating.
Also concelebrating were Rev. Robert Kaslyn, dean of the School of Canon Law; Rev. Mark Morozowich, dean, School of Theology and Religious Studies; Rev. Jude DeAngelo, University chaplain and director of Campus Ministry; along with the priests of the University and surrounding parishes.
A near capacity gathering of about 2,200 people - including students, staff, faculty, alumni, and religious men and women - attended the Mass held in the Great Upper Church of the Basilica. The seventh annual University Picnic followed the Mass.
Led by the University marshal, University administrators and faculty in academic regalia processed to the pews at the front of the Basilica. Priests and deacons, some vested in white, and others in red to signify the Holy Spirit, followed.
Cardinal Wuerl said that Jesus asks us to see life through the lens of his Gospel. In light of his revelation, the Cardinal said, we are to see one another "as brothers and sisters"; we are to recognize our actions of compassion, kindness, understanding, mercy, and forgiveness as works of Jesus' kingdom.
The Cardinal also spoke of Pope Benedict XVI's visit to the campus four years ago.
"He spoke on this very campus of the significance of Catholic education," Cardinal Wuerl said. "He pointed out that 'education is integral to the mission of the Church to proclaim the good news.' He explained 'First and foremost, every Catholic institution is a place to encounter the living God who in Jesus Christ reveals his transforming love and truth.' "
Following the homily, Cardinal Wuerl conferred canonical authorization to faculty members Mark Clark and David Lantigua to teach theology and religious studies at Catholic University in the name of the Church.
In his remarks at the conclusion of the Mass, President John Garvey spoke of St. Augustine. "If you were to sum up his teaching in one word, it would be love," he said.
Pope Benedict, too, has spoken and written of love. "Augustine and Benedict say love is the virtue central to the Catholic idea of higher education," he said. The love of God, he continued, "keeps us on the right track."
In all our studies, he said, "our perspective, not just our motive, is informed by the love of God." This is why, Garvey continued, students are urged to pray, go on retreat, come to adoration or join a weekly reflection group - it is "to remind us who live and work here that our purpose is to love God."
The Mass was once again televised live by Eternal Word Television Network to a worldwide audience.
Additionally, again this year the National Catholic Educational Association encouraged elementary and high school students attending their 7,000 member schools to view the Mass via television or the Internet.
Garvey made note of this by saying it was his prayer that "all those involved in the important work of Catholic education might take strength and inspiration from our celebration."
The Mass was rebroadcast by EWTN at midnight.
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