Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

When Allison Conliffe began her journey at Sacred Heart Academy in 2021, the campus ministry was limited due to the effects of COVID-19. As a senior now, she observes a significant transformation.

“When I got here, I would just be in the chapel alone,” said Conliffe. “But now, there’s people in the chapel, there’s people in Bible studies.”

Conliffe notes that Campus Ministry has evolved into a vibrant community. She attributes this revival to cooperation between students, administration, and the Campus Ministry team.

Meghan Swiergosz, the campus minister, explained that they organize school Masses and prayer services throughout the year. They also provide workshops on topics like "How to Lector" and "How to Lead a Retreat," covering church traditions such as May Crownings.

This academic year has seen an expansion in offerings with weekly events including Bible studies and "Morning Glory," a Friday morning prayer session with breakfast. Additionally, "High School Worship Nights" are now available for all area high schoolers featuring fellowship and eucharistic adoration.

The worship nights are managed by the “Hearts for the Holy Spirit Club.” The latest event attracted over 50 teenagers from six high schools on January 30.

Swiergosz commented on student involvement: “Truly, it is the students driving it. Our team is just giving them the wings to make it fly.”

Conliffe highlighted efforts to engage students online through social media as a tool for connecting teens with faith.

“A large portion of our student body is on social media,” said Conliffe. “We wanted to use social media as a tool to bring people closer to Christ.”

Recently, Campus Ministry launched a website for sharing events since students cannot access social media during school hours due to phone policies.

The relationship between students and administration plays a crucial role in these initiatives according to Conliffe. She described it as “a perfect balance” where administration supports student ideas.

“Our administration is open to our ideas; they are encouraging us,” Swiergosz added.

Conliffe emphasized youth engagement in church life and hopes these initiatives help students feel included within their faith community.

“Christ loves them and has a place for them in today’s church,” she stated regarding extending activities beyond Sacred Heart's walls.

Looking ahead, Conliffe expects continued growth: “I hope that this program will flourish...and run with them.”