Members of the Pan-Atlantic University community gathered for the annual Mass of the Holy Spirit, marking the beginning of a new academic session with prayers for divine guidance, wisdom, and strength. The celebration provided an opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to reflect on their personal and collective mission while invoking the gifts of the Holy Spirit for the year ahead.
In his homily, Fr. Ifeanyi Ogboh encouraged members of the University community to pray that the Holy Spirit would inflame their hearts with the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. He emphasised that these gifts are essential not only for academic success but also for personal growth, ethical leadership, and positive contributions to society.
According to Fr. Ogboh, the gifts of the Holy Spirit should be evident in every aspect of life, enabling individuals to impact their communities meaningfully and serve others with compassion and integrity. He challenged the congregation to examine themselves honestly and ask whether they truly embody these qualities in their daily interactions, decisions, and responsibilities.
He also encouraged members of the University community to seek the Holy Spirit’s help in areas where they struggle, trusting that God’s grace can bring improvement and transformation. Fr. Ogboh reminded worshippers that God continues to speak to His people and that spiritual growth requires openness to His guidance. He further stressed the importance of maintaining harmony between faith and reason, noting that intellectual pursuits and spiritual convictions should complement rather than contradict each other.
Welcoming students to the new academic year, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Professor Uchenna Uzo, described the Mass as an amazing and deeply enriching experience. He urged students to remain focused on the University’s mission of changing the world through responsible leadership and service.
Professor Uzo assured new and returning students that their time at Pan-Atlantic University would be transformative, offering opportunities for personal development, intellectual growth, and character formation. He encouraged them to embrace the University’s values and commit themselves to serving with integrity while making meaningful contributions to society.