We believe faith formation is complete when community service puts faith into action. Our students participate annually in many community service projects, including Operation Soup Bowl, Advent Service Day, our Veterans’ Day Mass and Reception, and many more.
Operation Soup Bowl
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in…” Matthew 25:35
Each year on a Lenten Wednesday, our 8th grade class hosts a soup and bread luncheon to raise funds to support the homeless in our community. Students learn how to throw clay in art class, and sell handmade bowls as well as a variety of soups and breads at the luncheon which is open to all in our community. All proceeds from the lunch and bowl sales go directly to support Catholic Charities of Larimer County and their efforts to reduce homelessness in Fort Collins.
Service projects like this one reinforce for our students that their efforts can make a difference in our community and the world!
Advent Service Day
The Rich Young Man | Matthew 19: 16-21
Now a man came up to Jesus and asked, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?” “Why do you ask me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments.” “Which ones?” the man inquired. Jesus replied, “Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother, and love your neighbor as yourself.” “All these I have kept,” the young man said. “Which do I still lack?” Jesus answered, “if you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in Heaven. Then come, follow me.”
The purpose of Advent Service Day is to help students understand that as Catholics we are called to help one another in this world. Just like the rich young man in Scripture, we are asked by Jesus to “sell your possessions and give to the poor, then ‘come, follow me.’” The first Friday of Advent each year is dedicated to this whole-school service project that all students participate in, giving everyone an opportunity to learn how to give graciously in the weeks leading up to Christmas. The projects we do on Advent Service Day vary by year, but some examples include collecting food and clothing donations for Catholic Charities, making baby blankets for Marisol Family, making cards and placemats for the sick at Poudre Valley Hospital, and many more!
Veterans’ Day Mass & Reception
Every year, Saint Joseph Catholic School students honor veterans and those currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces during a Mass on or near Veterans’ Day. Students learn first-hand that service involves offering up one’s own life, if needed. Following Mass, veterans and their families are invited to a reception in their honor. All denominations and branches are welcome, and students are encouraged to bring friends or family members who are veterans or currently serving. Saint Joseph Catholic School is proud to be a community leader in the effort to honor the brave men and women who protect our freedom.