August 31, 2021
Cardinal Wilton D. Gregory

The Catholic University of America will celebrate the start of the academic year with its Mass of the Holy Spirit on Thursday, Sept.2, at 12:10 p.m. in the Great Upper Church of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, 400 Michigan Avenue NE.

Mass will be celebrated by Cardinal Wilton D. Gregory, the Archbishop of Washington and University chancellor.

The Mass marks the official start of the academic year at Catholic University, a practice that goes back to the universities of medieval Europe. It will be televised live on EWTN and CatholicTV.

University classes will be cancelled from 11:50 a.m. to 2:10 p.m. so that students, faculty, and staff may attend. In keeping with Washington, D.C. safety guidelines, face coverings will be required for all Mass participants.  

MEDIA: To attend, please contact the Division of University Communications at communications@cua.edu or 202-319-5600.