The Catholic Campus Ministry at Shenandoah University in Winchester embarked on a new academic year with anticipation, welcoming the largest first-year class in the university’s history. To prepare for this growth, student leaders engaged in a Leadership Workshop and participated in team-building activities at Harpers Ferry, W.Va., including a challenging ropes course.
With a cohesive leadership team in place, the student leaders kicked off the year by organizing the annual Welcome Week Luau on August 28. The event featured outdoor games, food, and treats to introduce new students to the campus community.
Students, both new and returning, gathered for the first Mass of the year on August 31, presided over by guest priest Father Parthi Raj Soosai. Following the Mass, the Catholic Campus Ministry hosted a New School Year’s Eve Party, complete with food, prizes, and a countdown to mark the beginning of the academic year.
Later in the semester, Father Jamie Workman, the diocesan vicar general, led a Votive Mass of the Holy Spirit on September 7 to bless the Catholic student body and dedicate the upcoming academic year. Kevin Bohli, the executive director of the diocesan Office of Youth, Campus, and Young Adult Ministries, also joined the celebration at Shenandoah.
Established 15 years ago, the Catholic Campus Ministry at Shenandoah University has seen significant growth in both faith and membership in recent years, thanks to a dedicated group of student leaders. Their mission is to create a welcoming space for students of all backgrounds to experience the Catholic faith and community.
The ministry’s activities include weekly Mass, breakfast events, Bible study, eucharistic adoration, and social events like bowling and Thursday Suppers. The community-building efforts extend to providing an open lounge for students to study, socialize, and enjoy snacks.
As the new academic year begins, Shenandoah’s Catholic Campus Ministry leaders are optimistic about the continued growth of faith and community within their organization.
Michael Filamor, the campus minister at Shenandoah University Catholic Campus Ministry, emphasized the importance of fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for students to explore and deepen their faith while building lasting connections within the community.
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