On Thursday, August 29, students, faculty, and staff gathered at Saint Leo Abbey Church to celebrate in this Mass. The history of Catholic universities and colleges celebrating a Mass of the Holy Spirit dates back to 16th century Europe. 

At Mass, the community joined with the Benedictine Monks of Saint Leo Abbey to open the school year in prayer. In addition to those in attendance in the church, the Saint Leo WorldWide community, which includes those who study and work online and at the university’s regional education centers, participated online through the livestream of the Mass. 

In his homily, Abbot Isaac Camacho, OSB, told the students that they were given grace and gifts from God. He cited the first reading (1 Corinthians 1:1-9), which states, “. . .for the grace of God bestowed on you in Christ Jesus, that in him you were enriched in every way, with all discourse and all knowledge. . .”

The abbot, who also is a 1995 graduate and a member of the Saint Leo University Board of Trustees, informed the students, “When we gather in the evening time, we pray for you, for Dr. Dadez the university president and his leadership team, and all who study and work at Saint Leo University.”

And he offered students reassurance, especially to new students just starting their academic journey at Saint Leo.

“You are not alone; we pray for you,” Camacho said. “If you are homesick, we pray for you. If you have hard times with your studies or with others, we pray for you. You are not alone.” 

The university community was represented throughout the celebration of the Mass with political science faculty member Frank Orlando providing the first reading; Dr. Tommy Humphries, professor of religion and theology, along with students Cora Charron and Clare Daley, presenting the Eucharistic gifts; Vice President of Student Affairs Jen Shaw leading the intercessions (prayers of petition); and Dr. Cynthia Selph, associate professor of music, directed the Saint Leo University Chamber Singers. Saint Leo students, staff, and alumni also were altar servers, ushers, and Eucharistic ministers.

University President Ed Dadez provided closing comments, noting that as a Catholic university rooted in a 1,500-year Benedictine tradition, “each year we dedicate ourselves to the Holy Spirit and seek God’s guidance, grace, and protection as we embark on our journey together here at Saint Leo University. Each year is special as we welcome new students, faculty, and staff to our Saint Leo family. We remember that God is present to us, and the spirit that knowledge and understanding is shared. It is in the spirit that we are able to work toward a community rooted in our values that embody who we are.”

Dadez also shared a message for all gathered, the new and returning students, faculty, and staff: “I challenge all of you to make a difference, do well this year, and have the courage to be more.”

Mass Schedule

Everyone is welcome to join the Benedictine Monks of Saint Leo Abbey for Mass. Student Mass is celebrated at 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 7 p.m. on Sundays during the academic year at the Abbey Church. In addition, Saint Jude Chapel, located under the clock tower at the Student Activities Building, is open for meditation and prayer.

Mass times:

Monday – Friday: noon and 5 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.