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One of the many organizations of Saint Xavier University’s (SXU) campus is Peer Ministry, which seeks to further engage with students through events being held throughout the academic year.
Previously, and currently, the Chapel on campus hosts prayer every day at noon. On Wednesdays at noon, and on Sundays at 7 p.m., Catholic Mass is held. Muslim Prayer Space is also on campus, located in the Warde Academic Center (WAC) in L-307.
”Interested students can learn to give the readings or distribute communion,” stated Karen Soos, Assistant Director of Campus Ministry.
However, new activities are arising. First and foremost in the Fellowship category, watch parties for the critically acclaimed television series “The Chosen” are starting. Every Monday at 4 p.m., episodes from Season 1 will be played, and every Friday at noon, episodes from Season 2 will be shown.
According to Peer Ministry, snacks will be provided, and the watch parties will take place in Rubloff Hall, Suite 110.
Game Night is one of the newest events to be formed by Peer Ministry. It simply involves playing board games with one another and enjoying the moment without worrying about the things happening around oneself. A movie night will also be held on Nov. 19. Both events also occur in Rubloff Hall, Suite 110.
When it comes to Faith Formation Group events, small group events will be beginning in the next week. On Wednesdays at 1 p.m., groups will meet about the wisdom of the world’s religions, and on Thursdays at 2 p.m., groups will meet about Catholicism and corresponding beliefs. These gatherings will take place at the same suite, Rubloff Hall, Suite 110.
As Campus Ministry’s website states, “All are welcome, regardless of race, color, ethnicity, creed, religion, gender, gender identity, abilities, age, sexual orientations, nationality, or immigration status. We’re here for you!”
Campus Ministry is also hosting a Faith Feast on Tuesday, Oct. 22 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The group is set to engage in faith-sharing conversations while eating a delicious, provided meal.
“Our events provide a balance of religious practice and fun in order to create a harmonious experience that is unique in the extracurricular sphere. Students would be given the chance to share their experiences with faith and converse with others who are walking on similar journeys at the same time creating life-long fellowship with a diverse religious community,” stated peer minister Diego Perez.
Retreats and field trips will also be happening throughout the academic year.
On Sept. 26 there will be a field trip from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. to the National Shrine of Therese of Lisieux in Darien, Illinois. The trip will include a tour of the museum, prayer, lunch, and free time to wander the beautiful grounds and gift shop. A $10 deposit will be required to reserve spots.
The first retreat of the academic year is one to focus on becoming disciples of Jesus and followers of the way. It will be held from Nov. 8–10 at the Carmelite Spiritual Center in Darien, Illinois. “This will be a time of reflection, deep discussion, fellowship, prayer, eating, and rest,” Br Alberto Varona, Director of Campus Ministry stated.
Meanwhile the Spring Semester will include two of the most important retreats on campus.
The Busy Person’s Retreat, which allows students whose schedules are very full to reflect on basic faith themes, takes place from Monday, Feb. 24, until Thursday, Feb 28, 2025. There is no charge to attend this retreat.
Secondly, Campus Ministry will be hosting the annual Spring Break Service Trip. The trip will take students to Jerusalem Farm in Kansas City, Missouri from Sunday March 9, to Saturday, March 15. The trip offers students to step outside of their comfort zones to do service with the local community, providing daily service to those in need. Additionally, reflections will be made upon the causes of poverty and the deeper message of Christian Service.
For more information and sign-up forms for events, retreats, and more, visit Saint Xavier University’s Campus Ministry website!
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