Xavier Ateneo officially started its academic year with the Mass of the Holy Spirit on 21 August 2024. More commonly known as the “Red Mass,” this annual Jesuit tradition was presided over by University President Fr Mars P Tan, SJ and attended by the Xavier community.
Fr Mars welcomed the students and dedicated the Mass to them as the academic year began. In his homily, he emphasized the importance of the Holy Spirit in the lives of college students, particularly those at Ateneo, a Jesuit institution. He highlighted the dual responsibility of students: to excel academically and to pursue a higher calling that goes beyond academics. This higher calling involves allowing the Holy Spirit to transform them, guiding them to live out their faith with joy and service. He also encouraged the students to become ‘beacons of light and love,’ suggesting that they should use their education and faith to impact the world around them positively.
The second part of the homily focused on the profound gifts of the Holy Spirit, particularly focusing on the joy of the Holy Spirit and service as Ateneans. Addressing the students as they embarked on a new academic year, Fr Mars mentioned that these gifts are essential not only for their spiritual growth but also for their journey as Ateneans. He urged the community to find deep, abiding joy in their lives, a joy that transcends the fleeting happiness derived from worldly achievements and is rooted in the love of God.
The Joy of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit brings a deep, abiding joy into our lives that transcends fleeting emotions and worldly achievements. This joy is a fulfillment that comes from knowing we are loved by God and living according to His will. St Paul, in Galatians, describes joy as one of the fruits of the Spirit, a resilient quality that sustains us through challenges. College students often face stress, but the Holy Spirit encourages them to find joy in their daily experiences and interactions. This joy serves as a testament to a life rooted in faith and something greater than oneself.
Service as Ateneans
At Ateneo, students are called to embody the mission of being “men and women for others,” guided by the Holy Spirit and rooted in Jesus’ teachings. This mission extends beyond mere obligations, focusing on expressing Christ’s love and compassion through actions. Jesus’ commissioning in John’s Gospel highlights that this call to service is for all followers of Christ. The Holy Spirit empowers individuals to serve with courage and enthusiasm, turning service into a reflection of God’s love in the world. Embracing this joy in service makes it a fulfilling and transformative part of the college journey.
Finally, Fr Mars reminded the students that the Holy Spirit remains a steadfast companion, offering guidance, comfort, and inspiration. Embracing the joy derived from a deep relationship with God can fuel academic pursuits, enrich friendships, and enhance contributions to the world.
“Be attentive to the ways the Holy Spirit is calling you to grow and to serve. Allow the Spirit to renew your heart and mind, so that you may live as a true Ateneans—joyful in your faith, committed in your service, and radiant in your witness to Christ’s love. May the Holy Spirit fill you with an abundance of joy and a fervent desire to serve, transforming not only your college experience but your entire life.”
Communications and Promotions Office