Select Page

Canisius University held its annual Mass of the Holy Spirit on Wednesday, September 18 in Christ the King Chapel.  The tradition, which dates back to 1548 at the first Jesuit school in Messina, Sicily, is celebrated to invoke the Holy Spirit’s gifts and wisdom for the upcoming academic year. Mass began at 10:00 a.m. with Rev. Fred Betti, SJ, chaplain of mission and ministry and Rev. Jason Downer, SJ, superior of the Buffalo Jesuit community, serving as concelebrants.  

“As a Catholic, Jesuit university, Canisius is dedicated to developing the minds and spirits of our students,” said Spencer Leichty, director of campus ministry.  “The Mass of the Holy Spirit is a powerful reminder of our mission to educate the whole person.” 

The inclusion of a special break in the academic calendar for the Mass enables the entire campus community – faculty, staff and students from various religious traditions – to come together as one.  It provides an opportunity for reflection on the upcoming academic year and sets the tone for growth, learning and service in the Jesuit tradition.  

Click here to read more.