All Saints' Day Mass

Jesuit High School celebrated all-school Mass on Thursday (Nov. 1) on All Saints' Day in the Chapel of the Holy Cross (see below a photo slideshow). Fr. Angel Rivera-Fals, S.J. was the principal celebrant, and The Book of the Gospels he blessed and used for the proclamation of the Gospel was especially significant.

Earlier this year, Fr. Rivera-Fals celebrated his Final Vows. This week, to commemorate that occasion, he was presented with a rare edition of The Book of the Gospels created in conjunction with The Saint John's Bible, as a gift from Susan and Jeffrey Turner, P '22, '23. In January, the Turners had presented Jesuit with a remarkable Heritage Edition of The Saint John's Bible, which is currently on display in Gonzmart Hall.

The following is a description of The Book of the Gospels special edition: As the most visible book to the assembly, The Book of the Gospels symbolizes the presence of Christ in the liturgical celebration while exemplifying our reverence for the holy Gospel. This extraordinary edition, drawn from The Lectionary for Mass with New American Bible text, adds brilliance with glorious, hand-illuminated artwork from the pages of The Saint John's Bible.

The Book of the Gospels features an exquisite combination of breathtaking artwork and large, easy-to-read text. Over 30 major illuminations from The Saint John's Bible are reproduced in full color throughout this volume, accompanied by clearly printed 17-point text in the Golden Cockerel typeface. The stunning cover, in genuine or bonded leather, is a complex collage of colors of gold, purple, red, and blue designed to reflect the significance of the Word throughout the assembly.

Beautifully illuminated pages, large text, decorative cover art, and its monumental size truly make this edition of The Book of the Gospels an eloquent symbol of God's Word.

Fr. Angel Rivera-Fals, S.J. with The Book of the Gospels 

November Remembrances: Each year the month of November is dedicated to prayers for those who "have gone before us marked with the sign of faith." Beginning with the Mass of All Saints and continuing with the Mass of All Souls, the Church becomes more deeply aware of the Communion of Saints and our unity in Christ. This is a communion that we on earth share not only with one another, but also with those who have died. Our prayers and sacrifices assist our deceased loved ones as they make their final passage to God. In praying for them we also give thanks to God for their lives and we anticipate our future reunion with them in Heaven.

The Jesuit fathers of Jesuit High School invite you to join them in remembering deceased alumni, parents, family, and friends during the month of November. Your intentions for your loved ones will remain on the chapel altar, and will be remembered in our prayers at Holy Mass throughout the month. Click here to submit your intentions.

See below a photo slideshow from Friday's Mass: