Scottish Catholic Observer

STUDENTS from across the St Andrews & Edinburgh Archdiocese came together at St Margaret’s Chapel, Edinburgh, to celebrate Mass commemorating the start of the academic year.

The Mass, on October 4, was celebrated by Archbishop Leo Cushley of St Andrews & Edinburgh, alongside Fr Dermot Morrin OP, Chaplain to University of Edinburgh; Fr John O’Connor OP Assistant Chaplain at the university; Stirling University Chaplain Fr Andrew Kingham; and Chaplain of St Andrews University Fr Michael John Galbraith, who also acted as Master of Ceremonies.

“I think it’s important to meet other students from all over the Archdiocese and it’s important as Catholics to refocus at the beginning of the academic year,” Madeleine Marshall-Roth, president of the Edinburgh Catholic Student Union, said.

“Being a Catholic on campus at present is a positive experience as many students are open to what the Church has to say and many others are searching.”

Fr Galbraith said: “It’s a great thing as Catholics to sanctify the academic terms. It’s something Catholics have always done, and Catholic universities throughout the world always begin their year with a Mass of the Holy Spirit to dedicate the academic year to Almighty God.

“That is what the Archbishop did tonight and, so, it was great to be here along with other students from across the archdiocese, offering up their studies to Almighty God.

—This story ran in full in the October 14 edition print of the SCO, available in parishes.