Campus Ministry

Our Catholic tradition teaches that good works are essential to a strong and living faith. For this reason, Christian service plays a central role in student formation at Garces. Rather than simply completing required hours, students are invited to engage in service that is intentionally paired with theological reflection. This approach deepens the experience, connecting the work of the hands with the faith of the heart.

This formation begins in the freshman year, when students complete 10 hours of service within the context of family and home. As sophomores, students complete an additional 10 hours, serving their school or parish communities. During the junior year, students fulfill 20 service hours through their Sacraments course, responding to the call to live a sacramental life. This service emphasizes working with those who are often marginalized—the poor, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. Because it is deeply relational, it provides meaningful opportunities for reflection on what it means to live as the people God calls us to be.

In total, students complete 40 hours of service during their first three years at Garces. Building on this foundation, senior year shifts toward leadership. Students serve in a variety of roles through clubs, athletics, retreats, CSF, NMS, FFA, and other organizations. A primary goal of a Garces education is the formation of servant leaders, and the senior experience is intentionally designed to help students grow into that calling.

Retreats are an essential part of forming students into reflective and thoughtful believers. By stepping away from the routines of daily life and the busyness that often fills their days, students are given the space to gain perspective and more intentionally evaluate their priorities.
Each year, students are invited to deepen their faith through retreat experiences designed specifically for their stage of growth:

Freshman Retreat is a one-day, off-campus experience focused on building unity within the class and fostering a shared identity as young Christians.

Sophomore Retreat is an overnight retreat held at Santa Teresita Youth Conference Center in Three Rivers. While both young men and women attend, they participate in separate activities and talks tailored to their experiences.

Junior Retreat is an overnight, coeducational retreat held at Camp St. Nicholas in Frazier Park. Its theme encourages students to open their hearts, minds, and ears to hear God’s message more fully.

Kairos Retreat is a four-day, three-night experience open to juniors and seniors. Garces offers three opportunities to attend: two at Serra Retreat Center in Malibu and one at Mary & Joseph Retreat Center in Rancho Palos Verdes. The theme of Kairos, “God’s Time,” invites students to step away from distractions and encounter God in a deeper, more personal way.

Faith Formation Activities
In addition to the servant leadership program and retreats, Garces offers a variety of opportunities throughout the year to deepen students’ faith. These include adoration and rosary services, praise and worship gatherings, and fellowship events that help students grow in community.
Students are also encouraged to attend off-campus religious conferences, such as LA RECongress and the National Catholic Youth Conference, where they can engage with the broader Catholic community and further strengthen their spiritual lives.