Faith in Action: Liturgy, Service and Retreats
At Nazareth Academy, spiritual growth is not just a part of the curriculum; it is the pulse of our community. Nazareth Academy offers a robust Campus Ministry program rooted in the Catholic tradition and the mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph. From communal worship in the Alexine Chapel on campus to student-led service initiatives and transformative retreat experiences, we invite every student to deepen their relationship with God, themselves, and others. Whether through the quiet reflection of a junior retreat or the energetic leadership of our Service Team, our Campus Ministry programs empower students to live out the Gospel and embrace a lifelong commitment to service and faith.
At Nazareth Academy, students don't just learn about their faith; they lead it.
Sacred Spaces & Liturgy
Throughout the school year, Masses and prayer services mark significant events, including the Opening of a new school year, Four Pillars recognition, Ash Wednesday, Junior Ring Blessing, Holy Week Living Stations of the Cross and the Closing School Mass and Graduation. In addition, Holy Days of Obligation are celebrated with all-school Masses. School liturgies are celebrated in the Alexine Chapel.
Student-Led Service
Service at Nazareth Academy goes beyond a Gospel Service requirement; it is a student-driven commitment to the "dear neighbor." The Nazareth Academy Service Team empowers students to become leaders in our community and advocates for the marginalized. Through core committees – including CSJ Mission, Service Drives, Liturgy Prep, and Local Service Sites – students coordinate major annual drives and make a difference. There is a place for every student to contribute and become part of a legacy of servant-leadership and justice that defines the Nazareth experience.
Living Our Faith: Student Leadership in Campus Ministry
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
Each year, a dedicated cohort of 20–30 seniors is called to serve as Eucharistic Ministers. Following theological training, these student leaders live as Christ’s examples, assisting with the distribution of the Eucharist during all school-wide Masses and emphasizing service and spiritual maturity.
Liturgy Preparation Team
Open to students across all grade levels, the Liturgy Prep Team is the creative heart of our worship. Members collaborate to plan meaningful Masses and Prayer Services. This program offers students the opportunity to:
- Develop public speaking skills as Lectors.
- Deepen their understanding of the liturgical calendar.
- Shape the spiritual atmosphere of the school.
Worship Music Ministry
Music is a powerful form of prayer. Our Worship Musicians, both vocalists and instrumentalists, enhance the beauty of our liturgical celebrations. Students use their musical talents to lead the congregation in joyful praise.
Student Retreat Leaders
Juniors and Seniors undergo specialized leadership training to facilitate Nazareth’s retreat experiences. As mentors, they guide their classmates and younger peers through reflections, small group discussions, and prayer, ensuring that the Nazareth charism is passed down through the generations.
The Retreat Journey
- Freshman Year: Create Your Legacy
- Sophomore Year: The Flame of our Mission
- Junior Year: Reflection at LaSalle Manor
- Senior Year: the Kairos Experience
Freshman Year: Create Your Legacy
Sophomore Year: The Flame of our Mission
Junior Year: Reflection at LaSalle Manor
Senior Year: the Kairos Experience
Meet our Campus Minister
“Nazareth Academy students live our pillar of unity as a reflection of the CSJ charism ‘that all may be one.” By celebrating our faith through service, retreats and prayer, Nazareth students build relationships with our dear neighbors, become agents of inclusivity and hospitality, and live as Christ taught us to live, as servant leaders.”Mrs. Janet Rausch ‘91
Campus Minister