Christian Service Program

 

Intent & Mission

Like many schools, Cardinal Newman High School features a strong service program, but what sets our service program apart from others is our emphasis on the theological virtue of charity. The Catechism of the Catholic Church defines charity as “the theological virtue by which we love God above all things for his own sake, and our neighbor as ourselves for the love of God” (CCC 1822). Further expounding, the Catechism states, “Faith in God's love encompasses the call and the obligation to respond with sincere love to divine charity. The first commandment enjoins us to love God above everything and all creatures for him and because of him” (CCC 2093). Therefore, our works of service at Cardinal Newman High School are primarily directed toward the love of God, and by extension, the love of all that God loves.

In a particular way, Catholic Schools are called to reach out to the suffering, the poor, and the vulnerable in our midst through concrete acts of charity. As Jesus tells us in the Gospel of Matthew, our eternal salvation will be determined by our service to Christ in the least of His brothers and sisters (Matthew 25:40,45). So too, our school should be measured by our response in charity towards the less fortunate in our community and beyond. In this spirit, we encourage our students to serve individuals and communities locally and abroad. Regardless of where and whom they serve, spiritual reflection is an integral component of a student’s service experience and deepens his/her formation as a Christian disciple.