By Emily Hernandez Dominguez, Managing Editor
As students return to campus, some are anxious about the unknown, while others eagerly anticipate reuniting with friends. Many find solace in their faith, and at Saint Leo University, a place to nurture that faith is readily available.
University Ministry is a crucial resource on campus. While it is rooted in Catholicism, it welcomes all students to participate in activities designed to support their spiritual growth.
The mission statement of University Ministry is “encountering and investing in students to lead them into a relationship with Jesus.” Every event they organize aims to help students feel seen, known, and loved by the community, fostering friendships and reinforcing the idea that they are first and foremost loved by God.
University Ministry also embodies the values of good Catholics by welcoming people from diverse backgrounds and sharing faith and hospitality.
Kevin Floyd, Interim Director of University Ministry, previously served as the office manager. As director, he oversees all aspects of the Ministry and guides the spiritual formation of the community. Floyd is also the assistant coach for the Saint Leo Ice Hockey Club.
Mary Worhacz, campus minister for University Ministry, is a familiar face on campus. As a Saint Leo alumna and in her second year as campus minister, Worhacz describes her role as ensuring students have opportunities to develop their faith and fellowship while at Saint Leo.
This includes community events such as dodgeball tournaments and service projects, as well as spiritual events like Praise and Worship and Theology Thursdays, not to mention one-on-one bonding at Benedict’s Coffeehouse.
Students can look forward to several events this fall. Adoration/Praise and Worship will now begin at 7 p.m. every Tuesday. Men’s and Women’s Groups will meet on Wednesdays at 7 p.m., followed by an 8 p.m. night prayer at Saint Jude’s. The first session of the semester is scheduled for Aug. 28.
Incoming freshmen can anticipate a day retreat on Aug. 22. The first Theology Thursday will take place on Sept. 5. Students interested in community service can join the THORN homeless ministry on Sept. 8. Additionally, Ministry is planning a kayak trip, tentatively set for Sept. 15.
University Ministry also provides various resources on campus. Worhacz highlights three essential locations:
The Wellness Center’s second floor houses the Ministry offices, offering students a space for spiritual guidance or simply a place to unwind. Nearby, the Abbey Church serves as the central location for many sacraments, including daily and Sunday Mass, confessions twice a week, and weekly Eucharistic adoration. For those seeking quiet, personal reflection, Saint Jude Chapel provides a 24/7 Eucharistic chapel situated at the Clock Tower across from the Student Activities Building.
Ministry also offers the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), a program for students seeking to become Catholic or baptized Catholics who have not received additional sacraments.
Stay updated on Ministry activities and announcements by following them on Facebook and Instagram @saintleouniversityministry or by visiting their website: ministry.saintleo.edu. For inquiries or assistance, students can contact Worhacz at Mary.Worhacz@saintleo.edu or Floyd at Kevin.Floyd@saintleo.edu. Additional contact details are available on their website, and students can also send a direct message on Instagram or visit the office in person.
In addition to University Ministry events, students can join Truth Seekers, a non-denominational group on campus. Truth Seekers hosts Bible study every Thursday at 8:30 p.m. and Truth Seekers Church every Sunday at 6:30 p.m.
“We encourage everyone, regardless of denomination, to attend,” says Tamar Olguin, one of the worship leaders for Truth Seekers. “We welcome all.”
Navigating school can be challenging for both new and returning students. University Ministry and Truth Seekers aim to foster a strong sense of community and provide a nurturing environment that supports faith and lifelong friendships.
“As a Saint Leo alumna myself, I can say that University Ministry has become a family and a home away from home for many,” Worhacz shares warmly. “University Ministry is truly like no other – the bonds created within Ministry are ones that last a lifetime, and I hope everyone feels welcome to join us at our events and become part of our family!”
