Blessing Marks the Return of Education Faculty to Campus

A special blessing ceremony was recently held for The School of Education community at St. John’s University as faculty gathered in person on the Queens, NY, campus for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic struck more than 18 months ago.

“Despite the pandemic, The School of Education remains committed to our charge to revive and reimagine innovation in education,” said Aliya E. Holmes, Ph.D., Interim Dean, shortly before the start of the ceremony, which was held on September 13 outside the entrance to Sullivan Hall.

“We ask God’s blessing on all students, teachers, administrators, and staff as we embark on a new school year.”

Education professors completed their first in-person faculty meeting just before the event. They appeared eager to enjoy gelato treats and continue mingling on a breezy summer afternoon after receiving the blessing delivered by Rev. Bernard M. Tracey, C.M. ’70C, Executive Vice President for Mission.

“Loving God, give every teacher the wisdom and foresight to recognize the needs and potential of each student and to open a world of possibilities to them,” Fr. Tracey prayed.

In his introductory remarks, Fr. Tracey praised the faculty. “Your efforts have a huge, rippling effect on thousands and thousands of people because of the education you provide the students at The School of Education. I want to thank you for that and let you know how much you are appreciated.”