In Mary’s Name: Celebrating faith and community at St. Mary’s University

​As we prepare to celebrate the Feast of the Most Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Mary’s University is looking forward to welcoming our community for two very special occasions: the Consecration Mass with Bishop McGrattan on Friday, Sep 12, and Mary’s Festival on Saturday, Sep 13, a full day filled with music, good food, carnival games, local vendors, and plenty of family fun. (Read: Splashing fun and community spirit at the first Mary's Festival)

Carrying Mary’s name as a Catholic university is both a profound gift and a humbling responsibility. Her name calls us to remember who she is for all of us: a mother, a friend, a steady companion who walks with us in both joy and struggle.
As I begin my journey as Interim President and Vice-Chancellor, I find myself looking to Mary as a model of humility and courage. She gave her fiat, her “yes” to God, with trust and boldness, relying on Him to guide her mission. In the same way, I pray for the grace to carry out my role faithfully, building on the strong foundations already laid here at St. Mary’s.
Mary speaks to each of us in our own unique circumstances. For students, she is a companion who knows the uncertainty of new beginnings and the hope that comes with them. For mothers and families, she is a quiet guide in the daily tasks that shape lives with love. For all who work, serve, and lead, she is a reminder that peace and perseverance can sustain us through challenges.

At St. Mary’s, we strive to reflect Mary’s spirit of humility, hospitality, and confidence in God’s promises. We live this out by creating a welcoming environment for our students, by encouraging and nurturing their potential, and by fostering a true sense of belonging for all who step onto our campus.

In Mary’s name, we find encouragement, hope, and joy. And it is in that same spirit that I warmly invite you, your families, and your parish communities to join us this September. Come celebrate with us on Friday, Sep 12 (from 7 to 9 pm), at the Consecration Mass, celebrated by Bishop McGrattan, and again on Saturday, Sep 13 (from 11 am to 4 pm), at Mary’s Festival, as we honour Our Lady and the beautiful community that surrounds St. Mary’s University.

• Buy your festival tickets here
• Save your seat for mass here

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Written by Dr. Scott Morrison for Faithfully. Dr. Morrison is St. Mary’s University’s Interim President and Vice-Chancellor since August 5th. He has been a long-standing sessional instructor of St. Mary’s, teaching an undergraduate course in the Faculty of Education and leadership certification courses. He has been instrumental in shaping the university’s Bachelor of Education program for secondary students and its soon-to-be launched Master of Education program. A former member of the St. Mary’s Board of Governors, he chaired its Governance and Nominating Committee for three years.