International Day of Serviam unites Ursuline community in faith and service

From intention to action, The Ursuline School community observed International Day of Serviam on Jan. 24 with hands-on service grounded in prayer. Inspired by Saint Angela Merici’s call to serve, participants embrace a shared day of service rooted in Ursuline tradition. The event connects students to the global Ursuline family and emphasizes that service rooted in faith is powerful, particularly when uniting communities across borders in a common effort to serve those in need. Observed annually, it coincides with the Feast of Saint Angela on January 27.

“The day reflects weeks of preparation,” said Ms. Jennifer Schassler, service coordinator. “This year, Ursuline’s December blog and community poll helped us gain insight and garner interest from the community.” As a result, families and employees contributed to a Campus Ministry donation drive, providing supplies for the service initiative. 

The service effort supported Hope Community Services in New Rochelle, benefiting individuals and local families experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. Donations included supplies to prepare bagged lunches, bake cookies, and create handmade cards with messages of encouragement to those in need.

"This day reminds us that Serviam is much more than a phrase we say, but a way to answer St. Angela’s call together.”
- Dr. David Gelpi, director of Mission and Formation 

"This day reminds us that Serviam is much more than a phrase we say, but a way to answer St. Angela’s call together,” said Dr. David Gelpi, director of Mission and Formation. 

The morning began with Mass in the Kulsar & McCarthy lobby, offered by Father Tom Byrnes. Participants then came together for hands-on service, which included assembling 300 bagged lunches, followed by a closing prayer and shared reflection. 

“Serving together as one Ursuline community, students, faculty, alumnae, and parents, made the day especially meaningful,” said Schassler. “The shared timing with other Ursuline schools across the globe connects us all with a common purpose. It’s a beautiful way to answer Saint Angela’s call to serve.”

International Day of Serviam offers a powerful reminder that service is an act of love and lies at the heart of the Ursuline tradition. Through prayer, outreach, and community, The Ursuline School continues its commitment to Serviam, one act of service at a time.