On Monday evening, Sept. 19, 2011, Our Lady Seat of Wisdom was happy to have Bishop Michael Mulhall drive down from Pembroke to celebrate Mass once again at St. Hedwig Church. At the start of every school year, the OLSWA faculty publicly pledge fidelity to the teachings of the Church at a Mass celebrated by His Excellency. It is also an occasion for a few pastoral words to the students and staff at the beginning of the school term.

That evening, the Bishop began his homily saying that the commencement of studies in the fall is "a moment of great joy... a moment to gather and rededicate ourselves." The day’s Gospel had taught about putting one's light in a prominent place and not hiding it under a barrel. His Excellency exhorted his sheep to "be a light of joy... a joy that can be shared with others."  He also reminded them that it is God who lights the candle—who is the Source. Following the sermon, the faculty members knelt at the foot of the sanctuary, recited together the Nicene Creed, and pledged the Oath of Fidelity to the Magisterium in their work as teachers. The choir then struck up Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring, a fitting accompaniment to the joyful occasion. After Mass, the Bishop then joined OLSWA staff and students for and enjoyable dinner to celebrate the new Academic Year.