Guided by faith: Peer ministers begin the school year in the spirit of St. Angela

On Saturday, September 6, while others slept in, Ursuline's Peer Ministers gathered to prepare for the year ahead during Ursuline's annual Peer Ministry retreat, a morning designed to "get back to basics" through reflection on faith, service, and leadership. 

"Our main objective was to come together as people of God, pray and reflect on the role of peer ministers, and begin to plan for the year ahead," said Dr. David Gelpi, director of mission and formation.

The day began in the Auriana Theater with mass, officiated by Father Tom Byrnes. In his homily, Father Tom reminded the peer ministers that Jesus calls each of us to discipleship, asking them to reflect on how Jesus has spoken to their hearts.

“Jesus wants to be known to The Ursuline School through you, " he said. "Your devotion is inspiring. You are the face of Christ."

Your devotion is inspiring. You are the face of Christ."
- Father Tom Byrnes, celebrant

After mass, students gathered in the Gabelli Library and began planning for the year ahead. Guided by Dr. Gelpi and Ms. Samantha Marrero, campus ministry coordinator and Religious Studies teacher, the retreat highlighted the collaborative spirit of Campus Ministry. Dr. Gelpi challenged the students to think about how they can be more impactful so that more Ursuline girls can become more engaged with their faith and spiritual development in the year ahead.

"Saint Angela Merici was like you," he said. "She always found joy in the Gospel. We should also relish in it and know that God loves each of us unconditionally."

Saint Angela Merici was like you."
- Dr. David Gelpi, director of mission and formation

Later, in small groups, peer ministers shared what drew them to Campus Ministry. Small-group discussions followed, giving students the chance to envision how they would live out their ministry by supporting classmates, leading prayer, and serving as examples of faith.
 

Peer ministers play a vital role in campus life, throughout the school year, leading morning prayer, preparing liturgies, planning retreats, and modeling faith for the entire school community. Juniors and seniors mentor sophomores in these responsibilities, ensuring that Ursuline's tradition of student-led ministry continues with strength and purpose.

Their commitment to faith and service enriches our school community, and I look forward to seeing the many ways they will lead and inspire in the year ahead."
- Dr. Colleen Melnyk P'18, president

President Dr. Colleen Melnyk commended the peer ministers for their commitment. "I’m grateful for all that they bring to Ursuline," she said. “Their commitment to faith and service enriches our school community. I look forward to seeing the many ways they will lead and inspire in the year ahead."