On Friday, May 9, nearly 200 Xavier mothers gathered with their sons to begin a celebration of Mother’s Day weekend with mass in the Church of St. Francis Xavier and dinner in the gym. Fr. Jack Replogle, S.J. ’51 was the celebrant for the liturgy. Reflecting on Saul’s conversion, Fr. Replogle preached about the great gift of forgiveness in our lives. Mrs. Eileen Shasaty P’14, mother of Joseph ‘14, a senior headed to the University of Hartford on a baseball scholarship to continue his academic and athletic career, shared her reflection as a Xavier mom near the end of the liturgy. Mrs. Shasaty spoke about the multifaceted role that mothers play at Xavier—advocates, counselors, drivers, cheerleaders—and the opportunities these many roles present to know and appreciate their children more deeply. She also spoke with great affection of the many other mothers she has come to know at Xavier and how they have enriched her life.

Reflecting on the evening, Mr. Maggie Murphy, director of annual giving, noted “The Mother Son Mass and Dinner is truly one of the great highlights of the school year and we had a terrific turnout from our Xavier mothers and sons. It was lovely and spirited evening of prayer and fellowship.”

Ms. Murphy continued, “My favorite part of the evening is the mother son blessing for our seniors and their mothers during the mass. It is a beautiful way for them to honor one another and celebrate their time together at Xavier. Mr. Raslowsky's words of advice to the young men of Xavier at the dinner are certainly words to live by: ‘Be grateful for your mom. Whether you are 52 or 17, she is your greatest advocate and supporter, even though at times she may embarrass you!’”

As the evening drew to a close, it was clear that both mothers and sons were grateful for the time together. The senior mothers left proudly wearing there Xavier pins, and the underclassman moms all promised to return for theirs.