January 28, 2025
Catholic University Commemorates Patron Saint with Solemn Mass
Washington, D.C., January 28, 2025 – The Catholic University of America began its Spring Semester with spiritual solemnity by celebrating the Mass of St. Thomas Aquinas on Tuesday. This annual event, held in honor of the university's patron saint, took place in the Upper Church of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, drawing a large gathering of students, faculty, and staff.

Caption: Faculty and staff in academic regalia proceed through the Basilica, led by a faculty member carrying a ceremonial mace.
The Mass commenced at 12:10 PM, with the university community participating in a procession marked by the traditional academic regalia. Leading the procession was a faculty member bearing the ceremonial mace, a symbol of the university’s scholarly foundations and Catholic heritage.

Caption: President Peter Kilpatrick addresses the congregation from the ornate pulpit, underscoring the significance of the feast and the semester ahead.
President Peter Kilpatrick delivered a poignant address from the ornate pulpit of the Basilica, reflecting on the enduring wisdom of St. Thomas Aquinas and its relevance to the contemporary educational mission. "Today, we gather not just to begin a new semester but to reaffirm our commitment to a tradition of faith and reason pioneered by St. Thomas," said President Kilpatrick. His speech emphasized the integration of faith with academic rigor, a cornerstone of the university's identity.

Video: Highlights from the Mass of St. Thomas Aquinas
Watch highlights from the solemn Mass, including key moments of the procession, the address by President Kilpatrick, and the vibrant participation of the community. Watch the video here.

Caption: Members of the university community attentively participate in the Mass, reflecting the spiritual solemnity of the occasion.
The congregation, deeply engaged, participated with reverence and attentiveness. The solemnity of the Mass was palpable, with every hymn and prayer resonating through the vast expanse of the Basilica. The service highlighted the university's commitment to fostering a vibrant spiritual life, which complements its academic pursuits.
Location Details:
Event Venue: Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
400 Michigan Ave NE, Washington, DC 20017
For more information about the Basilica and its events, please visit Basilica's website.
The Mass also altered the day's regular schedule to accommodate community involvement. The priory observed a special schedule, beginning with Lauds at 7:30 AM and concluding with Compline at 9:00 PM. This adjustment ensured that all members of the Catholic University community could engage fully with the day's spiritual offerings without the distraction of routine academic obligations.

Caption: A wide shot captures the scale of the Mass and the beautiful architectural details of the Basilica, filled with attendees.
As the Mass concluded, the sentiment among the attendees was one of renewed hope and spiritual invigoration, ready to embark on the challenges of a new semester with faith and wisdom as their guides.This annual celebration not only honors the intellectual and spiritual legacy of St. Thomas Aquinas but also reinforces the Catholic University of America’s dedication to developing leaders who are as spiritually enriched as they are academically accomplished.