Ave Maria University
Wisdom exalts her sons and daughters and gives help to those who seek her. And those who seek her early will be filled with joy.
—The Book of Sirach
New President Mark Middendorf addressed an audience of incoming students and parents at Ave Maria Catholic Parish Church. In his speech, he asked students to ponder, “Why has God brought you here today… perhaps to discover, discern, and cultivate God’s gifts he has given to each of you—what He has called you to.”
President Middendorf quoted John Paul II’s apostolic constitution Ex Corde Ecclesiae: “It is the honor and responsibility of the Catholic university to consecrate itself without reserve to the cause of truth. One way of distinguishing the Catholic university is that it seeks ‘the whole truth about nature, man, and God.’”
He exhorted students to commit to their faith and spend time with the Lord, including a consecration to Mary and a daily holy hour.
President Middendorf concluded remarks with themes from Venerable Archbishop Fulton Sheen, paraphrasing that the authentically Catholic University is the path, the way, the inspiration for this country to truly love its God as well as to preserve its soul and its love of truth.
Ave Maria University is a Catholic institution of higher learning located in Florida, and is included in the Newman Guide. We are committed to helping our students develop the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in life and grow in their appreciation of truth.
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