Loyola Academy Community Celebrates Feast of Jesuit Saints and Blesseds

On Wednesday, November 5, the Loyola Academy community gathered for an all-school Mass to celebrate the Feast of All Saints and Blesseds of the Society of Jesus. This special feast day honors the women and men of the Jesuit order who devoted their lives to faith, service, and the greater glory of God.
Loyola Academy President Rev. Gregory J. Ostdiek, SJ, presided over the Mass, joined by Campus Ministers Rev. Stanislaw Czarnecki, SJ, and Rev. Arek Ciemiega, SJ. Small jars decorated with the names of Jesuit saints and blesseds lined the altar, serving as a visual reminder of the many paths to holiness inspired by St. Ignatius Loyola's call to be "women and men for others."

In his homily, Fr. Arek reflected on the meaning behind names and symbols of faith, noting that understanding them often requires looking deeper into their history and context. Fr. Arek also spoke of Jesuit saints like St. Francis Xavier and St. Paul Miki, whose courage and devotion continue to inspire. "Behind your name there is a story," he said. "Find the inspiration that gives your life meaning, and let it shape what stands behind your name."

The Feast of All Saints and Blesseds of the Society of Jesus also marks the beginning of Ignatian Heritage Month at Loyola Academy—a time to celebrate and deepen understanding of the Jesuit values that shape the school's mission and daily life. Throughout November, Ramblers are encouraged to reflect on how they can live out the Ignatian ideals of faith, service, and leadership in their own lives.

Many thanks to all of the student volunteers who helped at Mass!

Call to Worship: Elise Abbasi '27
1st Reading: Colton Pacholski '26
Intercessions: Leah Saahene '26
Gift Bearer 1: Kate Dimberio '26
Gift Bearer 2: Michaela Burm '26
Cross Bearer: Patrick Reaves '26
Book of the Gospels: Izzy Kopecky '26
Sacristans: Rose Harlan '26, Danny Vehovsky '26, and Lilly Ryan '26
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