A Gift from College’s Governors to new Grads, Faculty & Staff

“As I watched this year’s graduates receive their diplomas with the Chapel in the background,” recalls Thomas Aquinas College Governor Berni Neal, “it struck me that Mass, quiet time for prayer, and intellectual discussions of faith would be so very different in their lives off campus.”

Mrs. Neal’s insight rings true with many of the College’s young alumni, who often report that maintaining the rich spiritual life that they enjoyed on campus is one of the most challenging aspects of leaving. “Then it occurred to me,” Mrs. Neal continues, “that if they received the Magnificat, they would have so many of these blessings of the Faith at their fingertips.” The monthly publication features the complete Mass readings for Sundays, weekdays, and feast days; daily reflections on the Gospel; and inspirational stories from the lives of the saints.

Thus, at Mrs. Neal’s suggestion, the members of the College’s Board of Governors are presenting all of this year’s graduates — as well as members of the College’s faculty and staff — with a free subscription to Magnificat. A board member and executive vice president of the Magnificat Foundation, Mrs. Neal likens providing members of the College community with the periodical to helping them “put on the armor of God, so that they can stand against the devil’s schemes.”

Members of the Class of 2015 have been delighted to learn of the Governors’ gift. “Thank you very much for your kind gift, which is much appreciated,” writes John Kurzweil (’15) in a thank-you note. “I will endeavor to grow closer to the Lord by means of it. Please know you are in my prayers.” Adds one of his classmates, “This is the best graduation gift ever! Thanks so much for everything you do for us!”

Likewise, the College’s faculty and staff members have greeted the subscriptions with much appreciation and gratitude. “It is a beautiful reflection of how much Berni and her fellow governors care for the College that they would make this investment in the spiritual well-being of our graduates and those of us who work here,” says Dean Brian T. Kelly. “Spiritually fortified, we are much better prepared to do the good work of the College that the governors make possible.”