The Sacred Heart University Office of Campus Ministry offers various ways to keep students aligned with their faith. During the summer of 2020, Sacred Heart partnered with Holy Family retreats, connecting with college students around the region.
On Wednesday, Oct. 14, a virtual retreat for students took place. It was an evening of reflection where students shared some of the struggles and joys they have experienced over these past few months, as well as a platform to share and practice their faith together.
“It’s important for everyone to stay connected, especially right now. A lot of students may have questions they don’t know where to find the answer to, so the ability to connect in virtual retreats is useful,” said senior Zack Marino.
The next Holy Family virtual retreat is on Nov. 11 at 7 p.m., and all students are invited to join and connect with one another.
In addition to virtual retreats, Campus Ministry offers several other opportunities for students to stay connected to their faith.
“We want to offer a variety of different events and ways for our students to stay aligned with their faith and feel most comfortable in a time when we need each other most,” said Campus Minister Valerie Kisselback.
On Thursday, Oct. 22, Campus Ministry is hosting Agape Latte, a coffeehouse speaker series that takes place in the chapel. During this time, the Interfaith Chaplains will come and speak on their own faith in college.
On Nov. 5, Campus Ministry is having an event in the Multicultural Center for the celebration of Day of the Dead, giving students the opportunity to remember and celebrate the lives of family members who have gone before us.
On Nov. 12, a paint and pray event is being held for anyone who would like to reflect and paint in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
Campus Ministry offers other ways to stay aligned with faith and destress. “Take a Deep Breath” is a video series in which a video is uploaded daily to the Campus Ministry Instagram account (@shucampusmin). Students, faculty and staff can hear a reflection from the Campus Ministry staff or see one of their friends dancing or singing. These videos can also be accessed on YouTube.
Campus Ministry also offers holy yoga, which is held in the chapel and takes place on Nov. 1 and Nov. 15. The only requirements are to bring your own yoga mat, hand sanitizer and face mask.
In addition, there are virtual masses held every week.
“I used to go to mass at the chapel, but ever since the pandemic started, I have been praying on my own and also found it helpful to attend virtual mass,” said senior Chris Kennedy.
“Our staff, Father and office are always available to help and answer any questions faith and non-faith related. We love to try new things and really appreciate feedback so we can be here for the community. We are not aware of all needs, and being isolated makes that even tougher, so if there is something we could be offering that we are not already, let us know and it could be set up,” said Kisselback.
