University Traditions

Two annual events provide all members of Saint Xavier University with opportunities to remember, reflect on and renew their engagement with the mission and heritage of the institution. Sponsored by the Mercy Ministry Center through the Office for Mission and Heritage, these special observances integrate prayerful, academic and festive aspects of University life into programs that involve all SXU constituents -- students, staff and faculty; trustees, administrators and alumni; Sisters of Mercy, donors and special guests. Both events enrich the SXU community by attending to the essentials of University's educational mission, Catholic identity and Mercy heritage.

Spirit of Mercy Day

Celebrated each September, Spirit of Mercy Day blends two traditions common to Catholic and Mercy educational institutions. One is the Mass of the Holy Spirit, traditionally celebrated at the start of each school year to invoke the blessing of the Spirit of Wisdom upon the academic community. The other is Mercy Day, the patronal feast of the Sisters of Mercy whose educational work began in September 1827 in Dublin, Ireland, and continues today at SXU and other institutions around the world. Spirit of Mercy Day events regularly include the special Eucharistic liturgy for the entire SXU community, the commissioning of campus leaders -- sponsors, trustees, administrators, faculty, staff, students and alumni -- for the service of leadership and opportunities for conversation with a variety of Sisters of Mercy guests.

Mission Day

Saint Xavier University educates students so that they might "serve wisely and compassionately in support of human dignity and the common good." Mission Day, celebrated on a selected March date each year, highlights this aspect of the University's mission statement. Central to the day are three mission awards -- the Mother Paulita Morris, R.S.M., Student Mission Award; the Sister Isidore Perrigo, R.S.M., Staff Mission Award; and the Saint Xavier University Faculty Mission and Service Award -- each presented to persons selected by their peers for their exemplary adherence to the University's core values. It is a day when those values, especially service, excellence and hospitality, are much in evidence.