Faith and Service in the City is a Vincentian Leadership program at St. John’s University that connects high school students to Catholic and Vincentian traditions in New York City. Explore theology, experience NYC, and grow in faith and leadership! They just finished their third of three weeks, expanding from 19 students last summer to 56 this summer. They hope to expand to about 75 next summer! Their promo video highlights their staff.

Faith and Service in the City, a week-long residential program at SJU’s Queens campus, is an exciting and unique program for high school sophomores and juniors. Expert faculty members from the Department of Theology and Religious Studies and Campus Ministry lead this program, which focuses on Catholic Social Teaching and social justice action through an exploration of theology and participation in activities throughout New York City.

The program immerses students in the tradition of St. Vincent de Paul and the Vincentian Fathers and Daughters of Charity. Students develop and present prayer and social activities throughout each week-long session, honing their leadership skills. The program also offers them the chance to reflect on what gives them meaning in their lives.

As participants in the program, students engage in classroom interaction and experiences that explore Catholic teaching, the tradition of St. Vincent de Paul, and the Vincentian Family. They connect to the rich religious roots of Catholicism, and the religious experience of immigrants in New York City. They’ll also participate in service activities that put faith into practice and learn to become Christian leaders who serve others.

They’re on social media with lots of photos and mini-stories: Instagram and Facebook. Thanks, Joann Heaney-Hunter!