Bishop Zubik receives Papal Blessing at Waynesburg University

WAYNESBURG, Pa., May 5, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Most Rev. David A. Zubik, bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh, received a Papal Blessing from Pope Francis during Waynesburg University's Commencement exercises Sunday, May 3.

The special blessing from the Pope, presented to Zubik by Waynesburg University President Douglas G. Lee and Laura Ellsworth, a University trustee and partner at Jones Day, honored Zubik on the day that marked the 40th anniversary of his priestly ordination, which was May 3, 1975. 

Presented with the blessing was a letter from Cardinal Donald Wuerl, Archbishop of Washington, from which Ellsworth read a few lines:

"On Sunday, May 3, you will celebrate your 40^th anniversary of priestly ordination as you also give the Commencement Address at Waynesburg University and receive an honorary doctorate. It is a great pleasure for me to offer you fraternal congratulations on this day that renews for all of us the joy of your ordination and at the same time to offer heartfelt best wishes as you receive this distinguished academic recognition."

Zubik delivered the Commencement Address to the Waynesburg University Class of 2015 during the University's annual Commencement exercises, honoring approximately 730 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students.

During his address, he referenced the University's motto, Fiat Lux, or "let there be light," and urged graduates to never forget that as their calling.  

He also referenced Pope Francis's top ten tips for bringing greater joy to one's life, which include working for peace, respecting the beliefs of others, letting go of negativity, respecting and taking care of nature, investing in youth, keeping holy the Sabbath, developing a healthy sense of leisure, proceeding calmly in life, being giving of yourselves to others and to live and let live.

"To sum up Pope Francis's top ten tips to bring joy into life – Fiat Lux," Zubik said. "My hope and prayer for all of you is that you truly live the motto of this great institution."

Founded in 1849 by the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, Waynesburg University is located on a traditional campus in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania, with three adult centers located in the Pittsburgh region. The University is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) and is one of only 21 Bonner Scholar schools in the country, offering local, regional and international opportunities to touch the lives of others through service.

SOURCE Waynesburg University

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http://www.waynesburg.edu