Aug. 30, 2016
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) The Catholic University of America community will gather to celebrate the Mass of the Holy Spirit at 12:10 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 8, at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Great Upper Church.
Cardinal Donald W. Wuerl, archbishop of Washington, alumnus, and chancellor of the University, will serve as the main celebrant and homilist. Archbishop Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, will concelebrate. University President John Garvey will address the congregation following Communion.
The Mass of the Holy Spirit - which annually draws heavy attendance by students, faculty, and staff and fills the Great Upper Church of the Basilica - marks the official start of the academic year at Catholic University and other Catholic educational institutions, a practice that goes back to the universities of medieval Europe. Catholic University's Mass will be televised live by EWTN.
Classes will be canceled between 11:50 a.m. and 2:10 p.m. so that students and faculty can attend Mass.
MEDIA: To attend this event, contact the Office of Marketing and Communications at cua-public-affairs@cua.edu or 202-319-5600.