Campus Ministry
Campus Ministry is an extension of the Theology program, providing the framework for “faith in action.” This practice of the mission of the school offers opportunities for Christian life experiences. Its purpose is to both provide and coordinate service and leadership programs within the context of communal responsibility and the experiences of religious faith, hope and filial love. It takes an active role in promoting themes of peace and justice for all. Outreach programs such as the Compassion Connection Club, liturgies, other sacramental services, and retreats are components of Campus Ministry. Regardless of their religious affiliation, students are invited to volunteer their services to accomplish these purposes and/or participate in leadership and extended retreat programs associated with Campus Ministry.
Grade Level Retreats
Every year, students at each grade level attend a one-day retreat, led by members of the Theology Department. The retreat is organized around the year’s theme and deals with the spiritual growth and personal development of the students. Freshmen reflect on “Friendship,” Sophomores focus on being “Fearfully and Wonderfully Made by God,” Juniors celebrate “Unity in Diversity” and finally Seniors appreciate “Dwelling in God's Hands.” Opportunity is provided for small and large group discussions, quiet reflection and prayerful celebration throughout the course of the day. Students consistently say that their retreats are a welcome break from daily stresses and a way to seek common bond with their classmates.
Formal Liturgies
Prestonites gather together to celebrate the Liturgy of the Mass on a regular basis. The school year kicks off on a positive note with the school-wide Mass of the Holy Spirit in September. Mass is offered on Holy Days when school is in session (e.g., the Feast of All Saints on Nov. 1, Immaculate Conception on Dec. 8, and Ascension Thursday in May). Mass is incorporated into our celebration of Christmas and Easter as well. Finally, part one of every year's Graduation Ceremony is our Baccalaureate Mass.
Communal Prayer Services
Every month, the student body, faculty and staff gather in the gymnasium for a communal prayer service conducted by members of the Theology Department in conjunction with Campus Ministry. These prayer services celebrate different themes throughout the year (e.g. October as the Month of the Rosary, Epiphany in January, Ash Wednesday, etc.) There are always reasons to pray – and to pray in community is always more meaningful!
Christian Service Programs
Service to others is at the heart of our mission. With this in mind, we have woven service into the life of the school. Freshmen are required to provide a minimum of 20 hours of service to their families. Sophomores provide a minimum of 20 hours of service to the school, and Juniors must provide a minimum of 40 hours of service to the larger community outside the school. Many students find such fulfillment in their service activities that they choose to continue their involvement voluntarily as Seniors. Students are also required to provide written reflections of their service and its effect on them as individuals. The program is supervised by the Theology Department. Service and community outreach are also central to many of the activities undertaken by most school clubs and organizations.