St. John's University recently marked its Foundation Day with a Mass at St. Thomas More Church on the Queens, NY campus, followed by a luncheon in the Father Daly conference room. The event took place on January 24, instead of the traditional January 25 date, to avoid coinciding with the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul falling on a Saturday this year.
The homily was delivered by Rev. Aidan R. Rooney, C.M., M.Div., M.Th., Executive Vice President for Mission. He emphasized the shared responsibilities within the Vincentian family to create a society based on the values taught by St. Vincent de Paul. "We have a responsibility to those living in situations that are outlying, that are disconnected," Fr. Rooney stated during his sermon.
Foundation Day celebrates both St. Paul's conversion and St. Vincent de Paul's spiritual awakening on January 25, 1617, which led him to address various needs in France through the Congregation of the Mission established in 1625.
The scripture readings highlighted themes from St. Paul's conversion and urged believers to recognize signs as Jesus' ministry expands further into society's fabric.
University President Rev. Brian J. Shanley also addressed attendees, expressing gratitude towards the Vincentians for their ongoing commitment to St. John's mission: "I speak for all of us today when I say we want to thank you for your ministry here," he said.
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