Xavier- A New Jesuit Concept
When the people of the Coachella Valley made known the need for a faith-based educational alternative, the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits) entered into the conversation and subsequent journey to build a school in the Jesuit tradition. Without enough Jesuit priests to teach at the 28 universities, 48 secondary schools, and to reach the 220,000 students at these schools, the California Province embraced Xavier and its mission. Xavier is the first lay-built, Jesuit-endorsed high school of its kind and is associated with the six other Jesuit high schools in the California Province.
One of the hallmarks of a Jesuit education is the desire to do all for the “Greater Glory of God,” “Ad Majorem dei gloriam” and as seen on Xavier’s campus: A. M. D. G. Xavier serves God’s purposes of leading students, of whatever religious persuasion, to preserve the dignity of all persons. Those who attend Xavier have the opportunity to experience God in a place that respects religious difference and promotes dialogue. While Xavier is a community of individuals who come together on a regular basis to celebrate a “common faith,” students are also encouraged to participate actively in the life of their local faith communities.
We participate together in Christ’s mission in the world and we do so in various faith traditions, but in a shared understanding of the redeeming mission of Jesus and each student’s developing conscience.
- Four year-religious education graduation requirement
- Christian Service required for all students
- Immersion trips within and beyond the U.S. borders
- CLC’s (Christian Life Communities) for students and teachers to pray together
- 4-year retreat program
- Regular schedule of Liturgies and experience of the prayer life of the Catholic Church
The Xavier graduate will have a basic knowledge of the major doctrines and practices of the Catholic Church. The graduate will also have examined his or her personal religious feelings and beliefs while discerning a fundamental orientation toward God and a relationship with a religious tradition and/or community.