by Erin Simmons
Reflective of our diverse and common faith-life, we believe in engaging within our community and the world around us as servant-leaders. In keeping with Jesus’ gospel, we humbly learn and stand alongside individuals, organizations, and communities made up of and serving on the margins. In our theology curriculum and in our campus ministry offerings, getting to know our authentic self, building community, and discovering the Divine within and among us is the key to lifelong spiritual health and growth. We encounter the Divine in our dear neighbors, privileged to share our urban neighborhood with people from all backgrounds.
We are proximate to several dynamic organizations committed to improving the lives of racially and economically marginalized people, and our students gain perspective, leadership skills, and life experience through volunteer work with them. Freshmen lead all-school drives for places like the Humane Society, St Patrick Center, and Jamaa Birth Village. As part of our theology requirement, underclasswomen volunteer with Food Outreach St. Louis providing nutritious groceries and prepared meals for patients diagnosed with cancer or AIDS. They also volunteer with Franciscan Connection, assisting neighbors in need of housing and utility assistance in Dutchtown. Juniors research, create goals, and immerse themselves in a 2-week volunteer experience, and as Seniors, they present reflections for the school community and next-step goals for being people of service after high school.