By Michael Tsui ’18

With comprehensive exams approaching, the Sodality of Our Lady of the Pillar’s prayer service for the consecration of new members was an opportunity for the Sodalists to reflect on the past year, recommit themselves to Christ, and recognize those who have recently joined the family.  The message of this year’s service was one of faith, hope, and love.  

On Monday, June 6, current members of Sodality from the sophomore and junior divisions joined new Sodalists from the freshman class in Darby Auditorium.  The inspirational service was led by Bro. Peter Heiskell, S.M. ’86 and Fr. Garrett Long, S.M. ’62.   Additionally, some Chaminade students actively participated in the service by reading and performing music.  Sean Doherty ’17 read the familiar passage about love from Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians and Patrick Lewis ’17 led the assembly in the intercessions.  Dennis Valent ’17 played piano during the distribution of the Sodality pins and accompanied the Glee Club during their beautiful rendition of the hymn “Come, Lord Jesus, Come.”

During the a series of three reflections, Bro. John McGrory, S.M. ’84 discussed how the Scripture message, “Faith, hope and love will remain, but the greatest of them is love,” applies to the Sodalists.  These virtues are all present throughout one’s life.  However, God’s unconditional love transcends our comprehension.  Furthermore, through the deepening of faith and hope, this love can be made even more intense.

New members were called up to receive Sodality pins after they were blessed by Father Garrett.  Through the image of her holding her beloved child, Mary’s unfailing love for Jesus is depicted on these pins.  James Pham ’19, among those consecrated at the prayer service, said, “I joined Sodality because I wanted to increase my faith with God and increase my friendships with my fellow students.”

Like most of Chaminade’s prayer services, the consecration concluded with students singing the Marianist anthem, “Salve Regina.”  Immediately following this expression of faith, the Sodalists were treated to pizza and drinks in the cafeteria to officially end the day’s celebration.

The dedicated group of young men in Sodality will continue to meet next year on Monday afternoons to further discuss and share the gifts of faith, hope, and love.