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International Day of Serviam to unite community in faith and service

International Day of Serviam to unite community in faith and service

by Shannon Dufresne

Each year, Ursuline schools around the world pause to live out a shared commitment to our motto of Serviam — "I will serve." On Saturday, Jan. 24, The Ursuline School in New Rochelle will once again join that global tradition through its International Day of Serviam — a morning rooted in faith, community, and hands-on outreach.

All school community members, including parents and alumnae, are encouraged to participate. The day will begin with Mass at 9 a.m. in the school’s main lobby, followed by a series of service activities that invite students, families, faculty, staff, and alumnae to work side by side. 

“It’s a powerful way to begin the year — grounded in faith, generosity, and a shared purpose.”
- Ms. Jennifer Schlasser, service coordinator

“International Serviam Day is about bringing our community together in service of our mission,” said Jennifer Schassler, Ursuline's service coordinator. “It’s a powerful way to begin the year — grounded in faith, generosity, and a shared purpose.”

Serving our neighbors in New Rochelle

This year's efforts will benefit Hope Community Services, which provides essential support to individuals and families experiencing homelessness and food insecurity in the local community. Volunteers will prepare approximately 200 bagged lunches that will be distributed through Hope Community Services following the event.

Service stations will include sandwich making, baking and packaging cookies, and writing greeting cards and letters of encouragement. Participants will then assemble completed bags with sandwiches, cookies, water, and chips, before concluding with a closing prayer and reflection.

"There is real joy in giving back — both for those we serve and for those who serve," Schassler said. "The more you get involved, the more you feel that joy and begin to see the beauty in making a difference for others."

Donate and participate

Community members who are unable to attend in person are encouraged to support the day through donations. A food and supply drive will run Monday, Jan. 12, through Friday, Jan. 23, with collection boxes located in the Arcade.

Items needed include:

  • Slice-and-bake cookies
  • Bread (please bring bread during the second week of the drive so it stays fresh)
  • Peanut butter and jelly
  • Small water bottles
  • Individual bags of chips
  • Ziploc sandwich bags
  • Small brown lunch bags
  • Disposable cooking gloves
  • Napkins

Every item donated helps ensure that each lunch is prepared with dignity and care.

International Serviam Day offers the Ursuline community a meaningful opportunity to start the year united in faith and service — living the words that guide Ursuline schools worldwide: Serviam — "I will serve."

 

  • Serviam

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