Ignatian Service
The Xavier College Prep Ignatian Immersion and Service Program affirms the dignity of individuals and a compassionate connection to the world community. By facilitating service immersion opportunities, students are challenged to look beyond their worldview, to open themselves to the reality of the people they encounter, and to find God in all things. The Immersion Program’s goals are to inspire students to cultivate a commitment to service and justice, live in solidarity with those on the margins of our local and global communities, and foster a lifelong dedication to serving others.
The formation of Men and Women of competence, conscience, and compassion in light of the teachings of the Gospel is at the heart of a Xavier education. Through Xavier’s Ignatian Service Program, students, in a spirit of openness to growth and Ignatian charity, are invited to practice a faith that promotes justice. In service to others, we come to encounter the living God in ourselves and others, put faith into action, and grow in maturation.
The Ignatian Service Program is working towards reflecting the four Universal Apostolic Preferences established by the Society of Jesus in 2019.
Accompaniment
Time spent in conjunction with an approved partner agency or organization that facilitates direct encounters and dialogue between Xavier College Prep students and vulnerable individuals or communities. As a Catholic institution, we believe in prioritizing relationships above all else to promote unity, reconciliation, and harmony.
Community Engagement
These types of experiences that invite students to actively participate in and contribute to the life of the broader community through meaningful involvement with approved community partners and organizations, outreach efforts, and essential “behind-the-scenes” support such as organizing, fundraising, supply drives, or promting social justice causes. These opportunities encourage growth in compassion, solidarity, and awareness of the needs of the community. Whether through direct engagement or support of an organization’s mission, students are called to promote the dignity of every person and support agencies working in areas such as food security, hospitality for immigrants and refugees, emergency response, social work, restorative justice, and care for those on the margins.
Environmental Stewardship
Pre-approved projects or activities that educate our students on matters of ecological injustice and stewardship so that they may become better, more informed stewards of Creation. These projects must be active and/or “hands-on” and should introduce students to new ways of being environmental stewards outside their usual routines.
Advocacy
“Hands-on” projects that offer our students the opportunity to promote and/or engage in community-led solutions-based projects aimed to meet the needs of historically underserved communities. All projects of this nature should afford students the opportunity to be mentored by experts in the field. If a student hopes to organize their independent advocacy campaign, they must seek prior approval from the Director of Ignatian Immersion & Solidarity.
Students are also encouraged to propose their own site as long as it creates space for first-hand contact with people who are underserved or marginalized.
Please communicate with the Assistant Principal for Student Life for approval of particular sites before serving! Also, be sure to call ahead to inquire about specific volunteering forms which may be needed prior to your service; please do not just show up without contacting the organization first. Always remember that you represent the entire Xavier community and the Catholic faith when you serve.
Any questions regarding service sites, or getting a new site approved, please contact the Assistant Principal for Student Life.