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Lenten Reflections 2024
Introduction The Lenten season affords us a dedicated opportunity to reflect on how deeply our lives as members of the Seton Hill community align with God’s plan for us. At this critical time in the world, the words of the Pope Francis remind us of our part in God’s plan: “Education indeed becomes wisdom for life if it is capable of ‘drawing out’ of men and women the very best of themselves, in contact with the One who transcends them and with the world around them, fostering a sense of identity that is open and not self-enclosed. Wisdom seeks the other, overcoming temptations to rigidity and closed-mindedness; it is open and in motion, at once humble and inquisitive; it is able to value the past and set it in dialogue with the present.. Wisdom prepares a future in which people do not attempt to push their own agenda but rather to include others as an integral part of themselves. Wisdom tirelessly seeks, even now, to identify opportunities for encounter and sharing; from the past, it learns that evil only gives rise to more evil, and violence to more violence, in a spiral that ends by imprisoning everyone. Wisdom, in rejecting the dishonesty and abuse of power, is centered on human dignity, a dignity which is precious in God’s eyes, and on an ethics worthy of man, one that is unafraid of others and fearlessly employs those means of knowledge bestowed on us by the Creator.”
Mary C. Finger, Ed. D President
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Ash Wednesday 2/14/24
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18
“And your Father who sees what is hidden will repay you.”
Today we begin our forty-day journey through Lent with the ancient practice of receiving ashes on our foreheads. The reception of ashes is more than just an external act, it symbolizes our human frailty and mortality. Remembering our human mortality helps us focus on the reality that Eternal life with God is both the purpose of our existence and the goal we seek as Disciples of Christ. Ashes remind us that the season of Lent is about renewal, conversion, and penance. Lent is about re-prioritizing our lives and actions. We are to repent from our sins and avoid the temptation to sin. We are called to take on new lives of faithfulness. For this to occur we must be able to both recognize what is sinful and then desire to turn away from that sinfulness and seek God’s grace and strength. May we be reminded by today’s ashes that the primary vocation God calls us to is Sainthood. Only Sin can hinder us from achieving this divinely intended end. Accept today’s invitation to die to sin so that we may rise with Christ!
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The Most Reverend Larry J. Kulick Bishop of Greensburg
Thursday after Ash Wednesday 2/15/24
Luke 9:22-25
Then he said to all, “If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. What profit is there for one to gain the whole world yet lose or forfeit himself ?” This verse is also found both in the books of Matthew and Mark. A fast interpretation could be that we must also be ready to suffer as Jesus. But, I see it as more of a radical reorientation of our lives. We must focus more on the will of God and God’s work in this world than on our own will. It is natural to think of ourselves first and remember others only when their needs confront us face to face. By putting our lives second, we place others first and by serving others we in turn serve Jesus. We can get caught up by focusing too much on an object, a person, a cause or an event and lose sight of our true central focus. Meaning in our lives is never found by looking inward toward ourselves, but by looking outward toward the true needs of others. So, during this Lenten season, turn away from yet another senseless waste of time and spend your time helping others!
Michael Long Coordinator of Sacred Music & University Organist
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Friday after Ash Wednesday 2/16/24
Matthew 9:14-15
Jesus answered them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.” In this Gospel reading, Jesus reminds us that life is full of seasons. There are seasons in which we must celebrate and seasons in which we must mourn. While each of us will experience these highs and lows throughout our lives, we must try not to compare our experiences to the experiences of others. Sometimes when we are in a difficult season of life, we may look around and wonder how it is that others seemingly go on celebrating. It is natural to compare and to wonder if we have done something wrong or to wonder if, perhaps, others do not experience the same difficulties. When we feel this way, we can find comfort in this reading and know that we are exactly where we are meant to be and that each season of life has a purpose.
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Abby Boytos Assistant Professor of Psychology
Saturday after Ash Wednesday 2/17/24
Luke 5:27-32
Jesus saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at the customs post. He said to him, “Follow me.” And leaving everything behind, he got up and followed him.
As college students, it can sometimes be difficult to live a life following God. Like Levi, you might be living a life following worldly desires. Our busy lifestyles can prevent us from taking importance in Him. As we enter this Lenten season, let’s ask God to protect us from our worldly temptations and ask Him to lead us in the right direction. Like Levi, let’s try to identify our temptations, make efforts to leave them behind, and challenge ourselves to improve upon them. While the journey to follow Him might not be an easy task, let’s do our best to follow Him during this season as we prepare for the Crucifixion and Resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Esha Mathew ‘25
Biology (LECOM)
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First Sunday of Lent 2/18/24
Mark 1: 12-15
“The Spirit drove Jesus out into the desert, and he remained in the desert for forty days, tempted by Satan.” Lent may be viewed as the time the Spirit calls us into the desert. A time to pause, to listen, to reflect, and to have a change of heart about how we approach the temptations we face. Perhaps we should view temptations not as tests but as invitations to be open to God’s grace so we may think and act anew. May the desert you experience this Lent be the “high desert” filled with strong buds of growth amidst the constant light of the sun. Be attentive to and hold sacred the present where God indeed dwells. He is with us always!
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Sister Susan Yochum, SC Provost
Monday of the First Week of Lent 2/19/24
Matthew 25:31-46
“He will answer them, ‘Amen, I say to you, what you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for me.’ And these will go off to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.” The history of the world is divided between people who have and those who have not. Even though some have more than others, necessities for a good and healthy life should be guaranteed for everyone. That, in my eyes, would include food, shelter, education, and medical care. Even a country as developed and wealthy as the United States struggles with providing these needs because of the cost associated and personal greed. So often, we become complicit with issues such as homelessness and hunger because we often do nothing to help those who personally experience it. But the Lord calls us not to act as bystanders to others’ suffering and to instead be charitable in whatever way we can to help those through their struggles.
Richard Ratliff ‘26 History Education
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Tuesday of the First Week of Lent 2/20/24
Matthew 6:7-15
Jesus said to his disciples: “In praying, do not babble like the pagans, who think that they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” Jesus invites us to dive deeper and establish a more personal relationship with God in prayer. He wants us to be more intentional. We don’t need to impress God. He knows what we need. In this passage Jesus reminds us of “The Lord’s Prayer.” It is a simple yet powerful prayer that connects us to God in a meaningful way. If we depend on God for our daily needs and His guidance, it helps us realize the importance of forgiveness; not just asking for it but accepting it. I hope you can open your heart this Lenten season and grow your relationship with God.
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Shana Holzer Assistant Director of Alumni Relations
Wednesday of the First Week of Lent 2/21/24
Luke 11:29-32
While still more people gathered in the crowd, Jesus said to them, “This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation.” While the evil generation is criticized for only desiring tangible evidence, Jesus gives them the sign of Jonah, not the excitement that the crowd of skeptical people wanted to see. The reference to the story of Jonah indicates the parallel between the resurrection of Jesus and Jonah’s three days in the belly of a fish. It is important to realize that the Divine gives subtle signs that should not be rejected. Rejecting the message from Jesus can bring forth consequences. As we progress through this Lenten Season, carefully think and try to recognize if we are truly faithful to God because we want to love, serve, and know him or if we only go to him in times of needing a miracle, like the crowd did. Do you prefer the Giver rather than his Gifts?
Emily Veychek ‘26 Biology LECOM 4+4
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Thursday of the First Week of Lent 2/22/24
Matthew 16: 13-19
“And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven.”
Have you ever watched a movie or sat in class and needed a bit of time to fully understand what was happening? This passage reminds me of that feeling. Sometimes you need a moment and some faith that everything will become clear. Jesus is trusting Peter with “my Church.” Jesus is saying he will give the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven to Peter. I imagine Peter needing a moment to let this all sink in and fully understand the plan Jesus has for him. I also imagine Peter needing some faith. Faith in Jesus’ plan but more so faith in himself. What is our reaction when God is telling us His plan? Do we shrug it away and think it cannot be right? Or do we take a moment and let it sink in? Faith, I believe, will lead us to the second option. Whatever the day holds, just like Peter, there is a plan for us. We just need to take a moment and have faith.
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Lynda Sukolsky Associate Dean of Academic Enrichment and Retention
Friday of the First Week of Lent 2/23/24
Matthew 5:20-26
“If you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” In this chapter, Jesus calls us to recognize that resolving internalized resentment toward others is vital for true spiritual flourishing. He implies that practicing compassion and forgiveness brings us closer to one another and divine connectivity. Here, resenting peers is equivalent to hurting ourselves and committing acts of violence. God’s love is unconditional, thus he calls for us to model this with our own actions and focus on love. Many would express that this call is challenging. In a time when societal medical advancements have never been more remarkable, our stockpile of nuclear warheads have never been more excessive. With violence at every corner, we ask ourselves “how can we resist harboring resentment?” Jesus advises starting with those closest, resolving conflicts within our circles. By doing this, we contribute to a ripple effect, fostering harmony amid broader challenges of a conflicted world.
Danielle Hegyes Assistant Director of Housing in Residence & Commuter Life
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Saturday of the First Week of Lent 2/24/24
Matthew 5:46-48
Jesus said to his disciples: “ You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust.” As human beings, bitterness and contempt are incredibly easy attitudes to embrace, but this isn’t what Jesus calls us into. In the way Christ has mercy on us, we are called to reflect His goodness through ourselves. To love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us is to yield to God’s commandment for us. We surrender the burden of hatred and take up Christ’s love, knowing that God stands at the center of all things and that trials and tribulations are no exception. Walking with God, we give our troubles to Him and choose His love instead of hatred, because that supernatural love bears witness to God’s power in our lives. It’s by this love that Jesus reaches even the tax collectors, murderers, and those who seek to extinguish our faith. Through this same unflinching love, He continues that ministry with us.
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Franklin Orczeck ‘24 Mathematics
Second Sunday of Lent 2/25/24
Mark 9:2-9
Jesus took Peter, James, and John and led them up a high mountain apart by themselves. And he was transfigured before them… As they were coming down from the mountain, he charged them not to relate what they had seen to anyone, except when the Son of Man had risen from the dead. The story of the Transfiguration has always been a mystery to me. How could this happen? What does Jesus mean “risen from the dead”? How can anyone come back to life? We don’t have to keep silent about the resurrection like the disciples had to. We can shout from the mountaintops the Good News that Jesus has risen from the dead. How we live our lives and how we treat others in our daily actions is shouting the Good News that Jesus has risen from the dead.
Sister Mary Norbert Long, SC
Provincial Sisters of Charity of Seton Hill
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Monday of the Second Week of Lent 2/26/24
Luke 6:36-38
Jesus said to his disciples: “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. Stop judging and you will not be judged. Stop condemning and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven.”
In our collective desire for divine forgiveness and understanding, the path is illuminated through the profound truth: to receive absolution. The resonance of “Stop judging and you will not be judged” echoes that when we emulate God’s boundless mercy by ceasing judgment and extending forgiveness, we align ourselves with the divine order. This spiritual act reflects not only our desire for divine compassion but also our commitment to demonstrating it in our interactions with fellow classmates. Living in the radiance of God’s light entails more than the adherence to moral codes, it is a call to radiate compassion and forgiveness. Each act of forgiveness becomes a testament to the divine mercy extended to us, creating a harmonious symphony of grace in our lives. In embracing these profound truths and living by the light of God, we not only seek forgiveness and understanding but become conduits of divine mercy, weaving a path of compassion that reflects the very essence of our spiritual journey.
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Abigail Veychek ‘26 Biology LECOM 4+4
Tuesday of the Second Week of Lent 2/27/24
Matthew 23:1-12
Jesus spoke… saying, “...For they preach but they do not practice. They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they will not lift a finger to move them. All their works are performed to be seen… Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” A life constantly seeking approval from people is exhausting. A life constantly living in hypocrisy can harm others. As the religious scholars and authorities are exalting themselves, Jesus quickly humbles them. Their hypocrisy has caused confusion and burdens for those around them. His teachings were lingering on their minds, but they were not infiltrated into their hearts. We should be using our words and actions to please the Father alone. When we obey His instruction and become wrapped in His grace, we desire to turn away from behavior that is self-seeking. We desire to help others and ease their load. God blesses us when we live with humility, and the world becomes a better place when we do.
Hannah Brown ‘26 Physician Assistant Studies
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Wednesday of the Second Week of Lent 2/28/24
Mattew 20:17-28
“Whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave.” Jesus, being the son of God, did and spoke with the truth and wisdom of the Father God. Jesus gave life and spiritual liberty and fulfillment to the people of the world, but he knew that his actions were of the Heavenly Father and only He can prepare a place for those of the faith. And although Jesus has the authority of the Heavenly Father and could indeed grant such a wish, the Heavenly Father already knows who will live with him in eternity and who will not. Jesus, in all His humbleness and goodness, and although He is the Living God, still chooses to glorify our Heavenly Father before Himself. Jesus came to Earth to be of service. Because the Lord knows that the people of the world are suffering so much, and they need some help. Jesus, in all his glory and power and abilities, chooses modesty, sincerity and generosity above all. He is ethical and moral brilliance personified into man as the Living God. He is the greatest role model of all time — past, present, and future — for all of us to look up to and try to be a little bit more like every day. And that doesn’t even scratch the surface of who Jesus Christ is — Our Lord and savior, forever. Amen.
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Angelo Allen ‘26 Exercise Science
Thursday of the Second Week of Lent 2/29/24
Luke 16:19-31
“When the poor man died, he was carried away by angels to the bosom of Abraham.The rich man also died and was buried, and from the netherworld, where he was in torment.” The rich man was only rich in earthly things and the spoils. He did not take the time to help with the less fortunate. I was told once that on a gravestone it’s not the birth date nor the death date that is of importance but how you spend the dash that is between them.
“Moreover, between us and you a great chasm is established to prevent anyone from crossing who might wish to go from our side to yours or from your side to ours.” Here I see the challenges in today’s world reflected. There are often times when a huge gap exists between folks on many levels — a great divide amongst us just because we are different from someone else. We should lean in and look beyond this and narrow the chasm.
Darren S. Achtzehn Director of Sustainability and Outreach
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Friday of the Second Week of Lent 3/1/24
Matthew 21:33-43,45-46
Jesus said…“Hear another parable.There was a landowner who planted a vineyard, put a hedge around it, dug a wine press in it, and built a tower. Then he leased it to tenants and went on a journey. When vintage time drew near, he sent his servants to the tenants to obtain his produce.” There’s nothing quite like a parable in which four people get murdered by the halfway point! Violent stories like this are jarring to read, but perhaps that is Jesus’ intention: to shock us into paying attention. Paying attention and being vigilant is one of the core messages I take from this parable. We do not know when the crops of the vineyard will be demanded so we better be vigilant. Pay attention. We don’t know when God might be speaking to us, calling us to something more. A very simple but powerful spiritual practice I was taught years ago was to select ten minutes in my day to go to some quiet place and just spend time with God in silence. I encourage you to give this a try and just see what happens! Some days, you may feel alone and bored by the silence. Other days you might just be moved by the voice and presence of God. My prayer for all of us is that we can make time for God this Lent, and that when God speaks, we are ready to listen.
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Rebecca Krzmarzick Adjunct Faculty, Liberal Arts
Saturday of the Second Week of Lent 3/2/24
Luke 15: 21-24
“His son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you’... But his father ordered his servants, ‘Quickly, bring the finest robe… put a ring on his finger… take the fattened calf and slaughter it. Then let us celebrate with a feast, because this son of mine was dead, and has come to life again; he was lost, and has been found.’
Whenever we sin, we separate ourselves from God by placing our will above His own. Fortunately, God is merciful and compassionate. He gives each and every one of us the opportunity to reconcile with Him if: we are truly sorry for our sins, we ask for forgiveness, and we promise to change our lives for the better. When our reconciliation with God takes place, He forgives us our sins and welcomes us back into His embrace as we “come to life again” and turn away from the darkness. Throughout our lives, we ought to imitate the mercy and compassion that God has shown us in our relationship with Him, especially towards those who are lost, the people who wronged us, and those who are looking for guidance. Then, they may see the light of God radiating from us, and allow themselves to be transformed.
Jacob Armel ‘27 History & Theology
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Third Sunday of Lent 3/3/24
John 2:13-25
He made a whip out of cords… overturned their tables… he said, “Stop making my Father’s house a marketplace.”
In the story of Jesus cleansing the Temple, we have a picture of Jesus that is not often portrayed, either in the gospels or in our modern day reflections. In this story, we have a Jesus who acts with force out of righteous indignation. Jesus witnessed injustice in a space that was supposed to be holy ground. He saw that profit was being prioritized at the expense of people. While Jesus’ methods may seem out of character in this text, his fundamental motivation remains constant. He is a prophet for the Realm of God that stands counter to the empires, systems, and institutions of the earthly realm. He is a teacher of justice, equity, and liberation for all of God’s Beloved, and he will stand against any forces that oppose God’s justice, even if those forces are that of religious authority. No matter his strategy, Jesus is always endeavoring to show us what right living and right relationship look like in the Kingdom of God.
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Amanda DeWitt Director of Service Experience
Monday of the Third Week of Lent 3/4/24
Luke 4:24-30
“When the people in the synagogue heard this, they were all filled with fury. They rose up, drove him out of the town, and led him to the brow of the hill on which their town had been built, to hurl him down headlong. But he passed through the midst of them and went away.” The truth is often the hardest information to hear and accept. The truth is painful; which is why the truth tends to get bent so it appears more attractive. Social media has played a major role in how people respond to criticism. We are able to hide behind a screen and call each other “haters” instead of having a conversation in person, accept it, and move on. However, this doesn’t give us the right to be outright mean to each other even though it is the truth. If the truth’s only purpose is to hurt or bring down the other party without offering a place to grow, it isn’t any better than lying. Offering forgiveness in times of hurt can do more than attacking with a spear called truth.
Theresa Gygi ‘27 Musical Theater BFA
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Tuesday of the Third Week of Lent 3/5/24
Matthew 18:21-35
“ ‘ You wicked servant! I forgave you your entire debt because you begged me to. Should you not have had pity on your fellow servant, as I had pity on you?’ Then in anger his master handed him over to the torturers until he should pay back the whole debt. So will my heavenly Father do to you unless each of you forgives your brother from your heart.”
This Gospel stresses to us the necessity of forgiveness and highlights this overarching theme of the Lenten season. Lent is a time for us to strengthen our relationship with God and grow more fully in the light of His grace. I believe that one of the most effective ways that we can do this is through the process of repentance. Calling to mind our sins and asking God for His grace to forgive us is the first step in the right direction. With this in mind, it is essential that we also forgive those around us, no matter how large their sin against us. Sadly, many people within the faith struggle with this concept. To turn away from our basic eye-for-an-eye nature is hard, but to turn the other cheek and forgive those who have wronged us is even more difficult. I think of this battle likewise: if Jesus can forgive the people crucifying Him, then there is no reason I cannot turn the other cheek with my fellow brothers and sisters. Although this may be a hard pill to swallow, it is a necessary action that we all must take.
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Gage Sheffler ‘27 Biology
Wednesday of the Third Week of Lent 3/6/24
Matthew 5:17-19
Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill… whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the Kingdom of heaven.” Sin is a complicated subject. We have always been taught that the less we sin, the more of a chance we will go to Heaven. From this verse, Jesus tells us that yes, we must obey His commandments, but we also must teach His commandments, then we will be called to Heaven. Jesus wants us to make disciples out of each other. He wants us to share His story and fulfill the law. His word is the truth that is meant to be spread. So, be a disciple of Jesus through all seasons and share his commandments with others. Share the greatest of Heaven, and fulfill His greatest commandment.
Kendra Shoffstall ‘25 Psychology and Pre-Dance Therapy
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Thursday of the Third Week of Lent 3/7/24
Luke 11:14-23
Jesus was driving out a demon that was mute, and when the demon had gone out, the mute man spoke and the crowds were amazed. Some of them said, “By the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons, he drives out demons.” Others, to test him, asked him for a sign from heaven. How often do we question and second guess God and our faith? It is good to question and gain greater knowledge to enhance our faith, however, are we questioning for a deeper understanding or for a lack of belief ? Often, we find ourselves in situations of doubt like this crowd did as they were before Jesus, like Thomas did in the upper room. We allow ourselves to wander away from our faith. We see a sign, whether it be good or bad, and want to test against it asking God, “If you can do this, why can you not do that?” This Lent, let us focus on trusting our faith when we come into situations and know that we will never be given a burden we can not handle. Instead of questioning and testing Him, let us spend that time in prayer asking Him for guidance and to assist us in confidence. “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.”
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Wyatt Schussler ‘24 Business & HR Management
Friday of the Third Week of Lent 3/8/24
Mark 12:28-34
“ You are right in saying, He is One and there is no other than he. And to love him with all your heart, with all your understanding, with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is worth more than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.” All you need is Love! Love is kind, love is compassionate, love is powerful. It is not easy to love mankind with all our ignorance. If we could love all mankind, not just those nearest us, but neighbors far away, those from different countries, races, religions, then there would be no judgment, no bias, no hate. Humans fear what we do not understand, so we need to keep learning every day to keep that fear away. We need to work every day to keep love in our heart. We need to reach out to those that have been passed by, ignored, forgotten. Loving thy neighbor can be further extended to all forms of life, all of God’s creation. Our neighbor is everyone, everywhere. My hope is that we will see nature as part of us, and we will love it as we love ourselves. Then, perhaps, we will not be “far from the Kingdom of God”.
Jessica Brzyski Associate Professor of Biology
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Saturday of the Third Week of Lent 3/9/24
Luke 18:9-14
But the tax collector stood off at a distance and would not even raise his eyes to heaven but beat his breast and prayed, ‘O God, be merciful to me a sinner.’ I tell you, the latter went home justified, not the former; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted. In this parable Jesus tells about prayer and righteousness, the tax collector’s prayer to God is found to be more justified than the Pharisee’s prayer. The Pharisee thought it was good to exalt himself above the rest of society to God. The tax collector, on the other hand, humbly showed his wrongdoings and simply asked for forgiveness. In our lives, it is easy to want to take the path of the Pharisee; accepting and admitting our faults proves difficult, especially in the eyes of those who are close to us. The path of the tax collector, however, proves to be more rewarding in the long run. If we choose to show our flaws to those we love and care about, they can better understand who we truly are. And if we find ourselves in dark places because of our errors, we can then have the strength of others to help us along the way. So while it is good to showcase our accomplishments, we mustn’t let our egos run wild and interfere with our relationships with others.
Brody Porter ‘26
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Chemical Engineering
Fourth Sunday of Lent 3/10/24
John 3:14-21
“The light came into the world, but people preferred darkness to light, because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come toward the light, so that his works might not be exposed. But whoever lives the truth comes to the light, so that his works may be clearly seen as done in God.” Today, we have an amazing passage that speaks of God’s love for us. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.” That we are saved through God’s love for us is the central message of Jesus. Jesus is the light of the world. John continues to reflect on darkness and light using the metaphor of seeing with light for conversion “…That the light came into the world… .” Light and darkness are the basis of photography. Light is the medium of photography that enters the camera to record an image. Just as in photography, there is both light and shadow, the shadows (darkness) must give way to make a well-exposed photo. Moving from darkness to light is the goal of the Lenten journey. Out of darkness may we step into the light of Christ so that our works “…may be clearly seen as done in God.”
Sister Mary Kay Neff, SC Associate Professor of Art, Graphic & Interactive Design
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Monday of the Fourth Week of Lent 3/11/24
John 4:43-54
The royal official said to him, “Sir, come down before my child dies.” Jesus said to him, “ You may go; your son will live.” The man believed what Jesus said to him and left. While the man was on his way back, his slaves met him and told him that his boy would live. In our world of uncertainty, it can often be difficult to have faith in things, especially when the odds aren’t in our favor. Failure and rejection play such a huge role in our minds, enlarging the ‘what ifs’ and causing even more anxiety. Faith is hard to come by when everything seems to be working against us. It takes extreme faith to believe a sentence as simple as “You may go; your son will live,” and yet, the royal official doesn’t question Jesus or try to persuade him to still visit his son; he simply leaves, just as Jesus told him to do. Although all of our stressful situations vary, we are all able to take a step back and remind ourselves that we are human, we make mistakes. Sometimes all we need is a reminder that if we do our best at any given moment, then the rest can be lifted up to God.
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Liz Burns ‘27 Art Therapy & English Literature
Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Lent 3/12/24
John 5:1-16
Jesus found him in the temple area and said to him, “Look, you are well; do not sin any more, so that nothing worse may happen to you.” The man went and told the Jews that Jesus was the one who had made him well. Therefore, the Jews began to persecute Jesus because he did this on the sabbath. How many times has Jesus done something good for us individually, or for us collectively? The many blessings in our lives are actually innumerable. Yet how many times have we turned against him and damaged our relationship with him? How often do we think we “know” what is best for us but in reality it is “convenient” for us in the short term and hurts us or others in the long term? This same pattern of receiving love, but turning away from that love, can be seen in our relationships with loved ones. In this time of prayerful reflection, let us take inventory of our relationships, the blessings that we have, and what we can do to show our love in return. Our God, our family members, our friends, our roommates – how can we see the blessing of having them in our lives and give love and appreciation back? Let us turn to Jesus for guidance on how to be better and love better.
Matthew S. Zielinski Assistant Dean of Students for Student Development and Belonging
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Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Lent 3/13/24
John 5:17-30
“Believe me, whoever listens to my word and believes in the one who sent me has eternal life and does not come under condemnation but passes from death to life.” Earlier in this passage, we learn that Jesus’ community was distraught not only by Him performing works on the Sabbath, but also by their belief that He claimed equivalence to God through his statement, “My Father is at work until now, so I am at work.” While they were focused on such accusations to bring Jesus down, Jesus was focused on conveying to the community that those who believe and accept Jesus’ word and accept that He was sent by God will have eternal life. Jesus justified breaking the law by working on the Sabbath in order to save lives. While the risks in Jesus’ words and actions caused Him to be ostracized, His message indeed has been passed down to us. We are granted forgiveness of our sins and, in turn, eternal life with Jesus. All of this is promised to us through our belief in Him.
Jamie Fornsaglio
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Professor of Biology
Thursday of the Fourth Week of Lent 3/14/24
John 5:31-47
“I do not accept human praise; moreover, I know that you do not have the love of God in you. I came in the name of my Father, but you do not accept me; yet if another comes in his own name, you will accept him.” This powerful statement by Jesus, “I do not accept human praise; moreover, I know that you do not have the love of God in you,” resonates deeply within me. It serves as a reminder to reflect on the sincerity of my own faith and the motives behind my actions. Jesus continues, stating that He came in the name of His Father, yet He was not accepted. This highlights the paradox of human preferences — how easily we may embrace those who come in their own name, pursuing their own agendas, while rejecting the one who embodies the divine purpose. It prompts us to question whether we, too, are susceptible to accepting ideologies or leaders that align with human preferences rather than aligning with the divine principles of love and truth. As we navigate the complexities of life, we are inspired to seek a genuine and profound connection with God, placing His love and approval above all else. Jesus’ words serve as a call to introspection, urging me to ensure that my faith is anchored in a sincere love for God rather than a pursuit of fleeting human recognition.
Jared Johnson ‘25 LECOM Biology
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Friday of the Fourth Week of Lent 3/15/24
John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30
“Is he not the one they are trying to kill? And look, he is speaking openly.”
Often during hardships, we find ourselves wavering in our beliefs or stances to do the right things so we can avoid potential conflicts. However, we must remember to stand strong in our beliefs as Jesus did. Even though he knew the religious authorities were trying to kill him, he still went to the Feast of Tabernacles and taught to the people around him. Therefore, this should motivate us to stand our ground and not be scared to speak for what we believe in. The voices that are afraid to be taken down are the ones that people need to hear the most. We shouldn’t let the opinions of others hold us back from following the purpose or path we are intended for. Even though some doubted Jesus’ origins, he continued preaching that he was the Messiah who was sent from God. In the same way, we should not waiver in our identity and persevere to complete the purpose we are intended for. However, as we complete our purpose, we must remember to not be hostile to people who oppose us. Despite knowing that He could be arrested or killed, Jesus continued to preach and showcase love to everyone. As a result, we, as His followers, should learn to be kind and compassionate even when it’s most difficult.
Jesna Thomas ‘27
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Physician Assistant Major
Saturday of the Fourth Week of Lent 3/16/24
John 7:40-53
Nicodemus, one of their members who had come to him earlier, said to them, “Does our law condemn a man before it first hears him and finds out what he is doing?” They answered and said to him, “ You are not from Galilee also, are you? Look and see that no prophet arises from Galilee.” Nicodemus asked the men if the law allows the soldiers to condemn someone before they first hear them; this happens a lot in the world. We judge each other by the way they look, the way they dress or the cars they drive, without knowing a thing about each other. As we are quick to judge in our faith what is right and what is wrong or do we attempt to seek knowledge from the Bible?
Ritchie McCormack ‘26
Exercise Science
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Fifth Sunday of Lent 3/17/24
John 12:20-33
“Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit.”
I grew up in Minnesota surrounded by fields — corn, soybeans, alfalfa and even wheat. Despite this fact, I didn’t (and still don’t) know a whole lot about farming. What I did know was that farming was hard work, and every farmer I knew put in long hours tilling the soil, planting seeds, spraying fertilizer, and doing everything in their power to ensure a good harvest. And yet, at the end of the day, much of the growing process was out of their control. The farmers couldn’t make it rain nor will the seeds sprout. Only God could do that. And so it is with us. We are called to be grains of wheat that fall to the ground and die — die to self — to our egos, our plans, and our assumptions. We are called to surrender ourselves to God, so that He can do the work that needs to be done to make us grow. If we can do that, we will produce much fruit, for God and for the world.
Tony Krzmarzick
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Director of Campus Ministry
Monday of the Fifth Week of Lent 3/18/24
John 8:1-11
Jesus bent down and began to write on the ground with his finger. But when they continued asking him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” While Jesus often speaks in parables, His message to the Scribes and Pharisees in this passage is clear: whoever isn’t guilty of some sin can be the first one to enact the punishment for another’s sin. We shouldn’t judge others when we ourselves also do wrong. However, there is something interesting and often overlooked — literally and figuratively — in this passage. Before responding, Jesus begins writing on the ground. We do not know what He was writing, but we do know that the Scribes and Pharisees were too impatient to wait for Him to finish. Their willingness to deal out punishment and impatience with Jesus caused them to miss the Divine at work, to overlook whatever He was writing. Once Jesus did answer them, they left, one by one. None of them stayed to see the finished product of Jesus’ writing on the ground. By jumping to conclusions and trying to condemn others quickly, we often neglect to see (or outright ignore) God at work. Perhaps we need to pay more attention to the writing on the ground than to dishing out quick justice.
Shane Simpson ‘24 Cybersecurity, Computer Science
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Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary 3/19/24
Matthew 1:18-21
“…the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home” We know little of the life of St. Joseph, husband of Mary and foster father of Jesus. The scriptures tell us that Joseph was a humble man of deep faith and trust in God who served as a role model for Jesus as he grew in wisdom and age. Joseph was open and responsive to the voice of God as he spoke to him through dreams and thus changed the course of Salvation History. Later, in this same passage in Matthew’s Gospel, God speaks to Joseph, again in a dream, and tells him “to take the child and his mother to Egypt” to escape the wrath of King Herod. Today we celebrate Founders’ Day. Our founders were brave women who heard and responded to the voice of God as God spoke to them in the events of their lives. Humble, trusting, faithful, ordinary women who had extraordinary faith in the Providence of God. St. Joseph was a patron and guide for our founders. Elizabeth Seton named the first school which she established in his honor, St. Joseph Academy. Mother Aloysia Lowe honored Joseph by naming the first school at Seton Hill, St. Joseph Academy. And, the “Jewel of the Hill”, St. Joseph Chapel.
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We are the co-founders who will fashion the life of Seton Hill University into the next hundred years. May we rely on the grace of God speaking to us in the events of our lives, the example of St. Joseph and the vision of our founders as we Hazard Yet Forward to “transform that world in which we are destined to live”.
Sister Maureen O’Brien, SC
Vice President for Mission and Identity
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Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Lent 3/20/24
John 8:31-42
Jesus said to those Jews who believed in him, “If you remain in my word, you will truly be my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
How do we remain in Jesus’ word in this secular and deafening world? We, a community of believers as Jesus’ contemporaries, need to grow and maintain our faith strong to accept a truth which might be uncomfortable but will always be compassionate and liberating. To walk in our faith involves finding the time to let ourselves be transformed, humbling ourselves in self-reflection while recognizing our enslaving compulsions, vices, and addictions. Only by being receptive to Jesus’ message and loving ourselves and our community as he does, can we engage and challenge our world through practical action, and seek social justice in our troubled world. In an era of fake news and distorted partial truths, we must remain connected to Jesus’ word and reach discipleship through thought and action.
Judith Reyna
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Associate Professor of Spanish
Thursday of the Fifth Week of Lent 3/21/24
John 8:51-59
So the Jews said to him, “Now we are sure that you are possessed. Abraham died, as did the prophets, yet you say, ‘Whoever keeps my word will never taste death.’Are you greater than our father Abraham, who died? Or the prophets, who died?” On today’s date, 1,477 years ago, in a monastery in Montecassino, a monk named Benedict died. Today, he is recognized as the father of western monasticism and as a canonized saint. But in his own time, Benedict was the victim of multiple plots to kill him, carried out by his own brother monks and priests! In one instance, envious monks put poison in his cup, but when Benedict prayed a blessing over it, the cup shattered. Another time, a resentful priest gave him poisoned bread, which Benedict blessed, and a raven immediately carried it away. As Jesus responds to the crowd in today’s Gospel passage, “If I glorify myself, my glory is worth nothing; but it is my Father who glorifies me.” In similar fashion, Benedict’s miracles are examples to us of the Father’s power and blessing, which He bestows on “whoever keeps [His] word.” And while Benedict did finally die from this earthly life, we know that he lives as a saint forever with God in heaven. May we follow his example and strive always to keep God’s word. Saint Benedict, pray for us!
Nicholas Jobe
University Registrar
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Friday of the Fifth Week of Lent 3/22/24
John 10:31-42
“If I do not perform my Father’s works, do not believe me; but if I perform them, even if you do not believe me, believe the works, so that you may realize and understand that the Father is in me and I am in the Father”… And many there began to believe in him.
In this world, we are guaranteed to face opposition… even as we follow the Lord. Jesus himself, free of sin, endured constant criticism for the good works he performed. In the face of hostility, Jesus does not argue or return the criticism. Instead, he directs the people’s attention to the one working in Him and through Him — God. As those who condemned him considered Jesus’ words, many began to have a change of heart and believe in Him. We may not be able to change people’s opinions of us, but we have peace because we are servants of the Lord. We should strive to reflect Him and His love in our daily lives. The reflection of Christ in us can plant seeds in those around us, which can begin to bloom later on. Even if it seems like our words and actions are fruitless in the moment, don’t forget that God is working in the details!
Ana Wegman ‘24
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Physician Assistant Program
Saturday of the Fifth Week of Lent 3/23/24
John 11:45-56
So the chief priests and the Pharisees convened the Sanhedrin and said, “What are we going to do? This man is performing many signs. If we leave him alone, all will believe in him… But one of them, Caiaphas… said to them, “ You know nothing, nor do you consider that it is better for you that one man should die instead of the people.” The Sanhedrin, fearful of the loss of control and power, ignore the signs from God and convene in a panic. The people are drawn to Jesus’ teaching and miracles. This is a threat to the status quo. Their answer? Violence. Death. The death of one man would save all and prevent upheaval. Caiaphas, who through God unknowingly prophesied that Jesus would die, foolishly misinterprets this sacrificial death as the answer to the Sadducees’ and Pharisees’ social and political concerns. The days to come would prove otherwise. This reading on the Fifth Saturday of Lent begs us to reflect on the frailty and meaning of “power” and asks us to consider how we, personally, respond to change, upheaval, and loss of control. Where are the signs from God leading you? Is there danger in maintaining your status quo? Or should you embrace radical change, radical love, radical empathy?
Casey Bowser Archivist for Seton Hill University & the Sisters of Charity of Seton Hill
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Palm Sunday of The Lord’s Passion 3/24/24
Mark 14:1 – 15:47
Likewise the chief priests, with the scribes, mocked him among themselves and said, “He saved others; he cannot save himself. Let the Christ, the King of Israel, come down now from the cross that we may see and believe.” Those who were crucified with him also kept abusing him. Jesus is not on the cross because He cannot save Himself. He is there voluntarily, choosing to bear the judgment of the sin of humankind. Jesus’ mission involves self-sacrifice for the salvation of others… to save you… and save me. I chose this specific passage because it highlights Jesus’ commitment to His divine purpose. It was not the nails that held Jesus to the cross, it was His commitment to His Father and His Father’s will, and ultimately, His love for sinners. The crucifixion of Jesus serves as a clear reminder of the shame, humiliation, and pain that Christ endured for each and every one of us. It shows the gravity of sin and the immeasurable love that led Him to endure such suffering. He didn’t save Himself because He needed to die for you and me.
John Giansante ‘25
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Cybersecurity & Computer Science
Monday of Holy Week 3/25/24
John 12:1-11
Then Judas the Iscariot… said, “Why was this oil not sold for three hundred days’ wages and given to the poor?” He said this not because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief and held the money bag and used to steal the contributions. Holy Week is an ideal time to challenge our accountability and intentions. Do our actions reflect our faith and our intentions? Do we “walk the walk” in the way of Jesus, or are we passive followers of Christ simply praising Him in times of great need or despair? Our modern world makes it exceptionally easy to enrich ourselves, covet possessions and leave Jesus’ sacrifice and the plight of the poor as an afterthought. In this passage, we see starkly contrasting displays of love (Mary’s gift of costly perfumed oil used to anoint the feet of Jesus) and greed ( Judas’ desire to profit from the oil under the false pretense that the funds would benefit the poor). In this sense, what gifts do we have to offer those in need? Is it time? Is it money? Is it love? Is it care and compassion in a difficult time? We need not examine or judge the root cause of another’s time of need, nor must we view helping others as a burden to our own wealth. This Holy Week, let’s strive to be less like Judas and more like Mary. Give, love, share. Wherever and whenever we can, in the name of Jesus.
Dr. Jason Thomas, DPAS, MPAS, PA-C Assistant Professor Physician Assistant Program
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Tuesday of Holy Week 3/26/24
John 13:21-33,36-38
Jesus answered him, “Where I am going, you cannot follow me now, though you will follow later.” Peter said to him, “Master, why can I not follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.”
While Jesus was in the upper room with His disciples for what would come to be known as The Last Supper, He intentionally shared insight into the events to come not only to Him, but for all that inherited the Earth. The disciples might not have known what He was doing at the time, but they realized it in their own reflection after the events had come to fruition. His leaving them would change everything as they knew life to be in one second. In one breath. Everything that Jesus had done up to this time was intentional in training them and showing that “they could not follow him now” because their destiny was to continue his mission in leading so many to an eternal life. Peter could not lay down his life for Him because Jesus needed to die on the cross to take away the sins of the world, and lead the way to an eternal life. We, as his disciples, are to spend our time doing things that glorify God and serve others. When we put our focus on others, we are doing our part to spread the Gospel, and God is glorified.
Connie Kugel
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Academic Success Coach, Coordinator of First-Generation Program
Wednesday of Holy Week 3/27/24
Matthew 26:14-25
One of the Twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, “What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?” They paid him thirty pieces of silver, and from that time on he looked for an opportunity to hand him over. The initial part of this passage really stuck out to me. I think for those of us that have heard this story many times, it can become easy to view Judas as the “bad guy” and not look too much deeper. It struck me today that we all are similar to Judas. We all have idols in our lives that we place over God. Judas was willing to give Jesus up for money and power. What are you willing to give Jesus up for? Maybe it’s to be liked, to avoid upsetting others, or so that you have more time to do school, work, sleep or hang out with friends. Whatever it is, I encourage you to reflect upon what you may be idolizing today and repent of that, asking God to help you surrender your idols so you can better glorify Him.
Abby Jordan ‘27 Physician Assistant Program
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Holy Thursday 3/28/24
John 13:1-17, 31b-35
“Do you realize what I have done for you?... If I, therefore, the master and teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another’s feet. I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do.” I’ve often struggled with understanding the washing of the feet in our culture. However, this was a regular practice that kept homes clean and was a symbol of hospitality. So, Jesus decided to take on the form of a servant by washing the grimy feet of the disciples after their travels in open-toed sandals? This is what a servant should do, not the teacher in this culture. It was interesting that Jesus, knowing all that God had in place for him and that this was his last moments with the disciples, decided to do this action. It was a culmination of all the teachings and examples Jesus wanted them to follow. Clearly, the disciples still didn’t get it by not stooping down to do this first before Jesus. Very few people (maybe 2) took the initiative to wash Jesus’ feet right away, just as in Luke 7:36-50. As Jesus washed their feet, the God of the universe showed the power of meekness, humility, and grace in abundance (Isaiah 53). Jesus redefined what true power and greatness are (Matthew 20:26-28). God, help us to stoop low to serve one another like this starting today.
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Jonah Zembower ‘25 Data Science and Exercise Science
Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion 3/29/24
John 18:1-19:42
After this, Joseph of Arimathea…asked Pilate if he could remove the body of Jesus. And Pilate permitted it. So he came and took his body. Nicodemus…also came. They took the body of Jesus and bound it with burial cloths along with the spices, according to the Jewish burial custom. Life is full of losses, some small, others crushing. We reflect today on the crucifixion, which must, to the disciples, have been a loss beyond devastating. In the space of just a few days, they lost their friend, their teacher, their hoped-for messiah to a brutal and traumatic death. And at the end of the Gospel today, they mourn him. These details of their mourning are important, evidence of a profound grief mixed with a lavish love. As Christians, we’re not asked to repress our grief. Rather, we’re invited to mourn our losses like the disciples, maybe even lavishly. But we’re further called to lay our losses in the tomb with Christ, trusting that God will work all things to the good. May this Good Friday be a day on which you can mourn whatever losses you’ve experienced this year and lay them down with Christ in the confident hope that God can transform even death into new life.
Abby Bogdan Assistant Professor, Physics
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Holy Saturday 3/30/24
Mark 16:1-7
He said to them, “Do not be amazed! You seek Jesus of Nazareth, the crucified. He has been raised; he is not here. Behold the place where they laid him. But go and tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him, as he told you.’” The story of Jesus of Nazareth rising from the grave is a miracle within itself. What we are called to do as Christians is to spread this good news with anyone and everyone. The text says: But go and tell his disciples and Peter, “He is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him, as he told you.” Spread the good news for all to hear! We can think about this in any situation we have. Be the positive light in someone’s eyes and work for good to bring joy to the people around you! Just like the disciples in the story, it is easy to fall into despair when things aren’t going right; it is easy to feel this way during the semester. What we can do, though, is remember the joy that God wants for us and spread that happiness with the community around us.
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Sage Evans ‘25 Dance
Easter Sunday 3/31/24
John 20:1-9
“They have taken the Lord from the tomb, and we don’t know where they put him.”
Sometimes we feel robbed by life. A disappointment, a failure, an untimely death happens, and these cause us to question: “Why? How did this happen? Who’s to blame?” Often there is no answer for these questions. We are left doubting, despairing, disillusioned. Jesus’ disciples had the same questions when their hopes were dashed on Good Friday, and these questions didn’t go away easily. On Easter though, they begin to change. They get excited. They run to the tomb. They’re not sure what happened there, but they begin to wonder. Their questions change. What if this isn’t the end? What if God reached into this dead space and transformed what seemed hopeless into a new possibility for humankind? What if Jesus lives in a new and real way? What if we share in this new way of being in the world through the Holy Spirit? While the Lord rose from the dead in an instant, we absorb that wondrous mystery slowly, gradually, through the course of a lifetime. May the power of God’s new life penetrate the dead spots in our lives so that we too can “see and believe.”
Father Roger Statnick University Chaplain
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Acknowledgements
Sister Maureen O’Brien, SC Vice President for Mission & Identity Monsignor Roger Statnick University Chaplain Tony Krzmarzick Director of Campus Ministry Sister Mary Kay Neff, SC Associate Professor of Graphic Design Audrey Skinkis ‘24 Graphic Design Student Special Thanks To all the writers who provided us with these reflections to create Sacred Moments and You
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Your Reflections
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Seton Hill University Campus Ministry 1 Seton Hill Drive Greensburg PA 15601 724-830-1052 www.setonhill.edu