Regis Celebrates Feast of the North American Martyrs

On Wednesday, October 21, the Regis community commemorated the Feast of the North American Martyrs.

While the Mass was live-streamed for most students and the broader Regis community to watch remotely, the Class of 2024 was invited to celebrate - at a safe distance - in the Church of St. Ignatius Loyola. This marks the first time the freshmen gathered together as a class at 84th Street.

“Though we’re separated from these brave men by centuries, their challenge to us remains very close,” said Regis Principal Fr. Anthony D. Andreassi, CO, during his homily inspired by the eight Jesuits known as the North American Martyrs. “Their lives, their deaths, and their martyrdom invite us to ask this question: Is our active participation in the Eucharist and the life of the Church equally, together with, the different side of the same coin as our deep and sincere commitment to serve others and work for justice? If we determine that one is weaker, one needs more time and attention than the other, then there is no time like the present to begin that change.”

Regis President Fr. Daniel K. Lahart, SJ, also addressed the Class of 2024 as the Mass was ending.

“As you continue to pray, sometimes it may feel that your prayers aren’t working, but we have to have the faith that they are,” Fr. Lahart said. “We’re in a lot better shape than we would be if we weren’t people of prayer. To be a person of prayer is a way to become a Man for Others.”

You can watch a full recording of the mass below: