THOMASIANS SHOULD live with introspection, awareness and purpose instead of merely examining life as a problem, a Dominican priest said.
In his homily for the Thomasian Welcome Mass on Wednesday, Aug. 6, Fr. Jayson Gonzales, O.P. said life in the University should not center solely on academics, but on becoming more conscious of one’s purpose and capacity to give meaning to life.
“Life is not an object to be investigated. Rather, it is the basis of all activity, the horizon which we situate all problems, and is fraught with meaning. By acknowledging our existence, we recognize that we have a life to live, and that we are capable of introspection, and can give meaning to our lives,” he said.
Quoting the Latin phrase non scholae sed vitae discimus (We do not learn for school, but for life), Gonzales encouraged new Thomasians to not just aim for academic success but to develop character and compassion.
He also reflected on what it means to be a Thomasian, sharing a friend’s view that kindness is the defining mark of the University’s students.
“There is a love for scholarly pursuits, and a willingness to persevere in cultivating a culture of excellence,” he said. “But in all of this, what is distinct in a Thomasian’s pursuits is that default setting on kindness,” Gonzales said.
Reflecting on the Gospel account of the Transfiguration, the priest likened the students’ academic journey to the disciples’ ascent up the mountain with Christ.
“The Transfiguration didn’t happen at the foot of the mountain. It was revealed only when they climbed with Jesus…you are invited to ascend academically, emotionally, spiritually hand in hand with Christ,” he said.
To guide students through their journey, Gonzales enumerated three essential Thomasian experiences: pausing at the Angelus bell for prayer and reflection; walking through Benavides Park as a symbol of the University’s deep historical roots and future hopes; and celebrating Paskuhan, where shared joy with the community adds deeper meaning to their student life.
“May our pursuit of excellence always be accompanied by compassion. Let our knowledge never surpass our humility. And as Thomasians, may we be known not just for what we know, but for the love which we live in,” Gonzales said.
The Welcome Mass, held at the Quadricentennial Pavilion, is part of the onboarding activities for first-year students, followed by the ROARientation and the Thomasian Welcome Walk. F
