Initiating the 2011-2012 Academic Year
October 3, 2011
Becca Olek

On Thursday September 29, the feast of the Archangels, Mater Ecclesiae College had its inaugural mass of the 2011-2012 academic year. Monsignor Plante and Fr. James Perez, MEC chaplain, concelebrated the mass which was attended by the entire student body and a majority of the faculty members.

In his homily, Monsignor Plante encouraged the students to pursue their studies with joy and enthusiasm looking to Sts. Michael, Gabriel and Raphael as examples of how to bring God into a needy world. Drawing on the etymological meanings of the archangels’ names: ‘who is like God,’ ‘God’s strength’ and ‘God’s remedy,’ he compared the mission of the angels to the mission of apostles in the world today who seek to bring God into  others’ lives. To be “like to God” is to bring Him into the world, not be afraid to preach His name. God cannot be ignored because He is the foundation of what we believe. So like Michael, we must be God’s witness and victory. It is God’s own “strength” that will enable us to do this. His is a timeless and limitless strength that places the Gospel words in our mouths. Relying on God’s strength our message can echo Gabriel’s: Do not be afraid! “God’s remedy” thus comes through this proclamation of his word, which is “a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path.” Like Raphael, we bring a message of healing to the world.

Two day’s later on October 1 MEC hosted its first guest speaker of the year: Dr. John Carter. Dr. Carter has his Ph.D. in Politics from the Catholic University of America and is well versed in political philosophy, American political thought, and applied leadership, having taught these topics at various universities over the years. His presentation for the MEC student body was entitled “The American Founding” in which he emphasized the incredible and indispensible role the religion had on the founders of the United States. His main thesis was that Protestant-Christian culture was integral to the American Revolution and the flourishing of the Church in the States.

After the conference the college showed their appreciation to Dr. Carter and his wife by inviting the Choir to sing for them.

For more information future guest speakers, click here.