Aquinas Landmark Spring 2021

6 AQUINAS LANDMARK | SUMMER 2020 W Hat ’ s n eWs F ocUs o n F aitH . . . PRING 2021 Peer Minister Jaleisa Banks ‘21 reads a passage at Aquinas’ Opening School Mass. Navigating Our Fa Stained-glass paintings created by students on retreat. Aquinas Campus Ministry takes in all aspects of our Catholic institution as we teach our students goodness, discipline and knowledge. Through the practice of the Sacraments of Eucharist and Reconciliation, prayer services, retreats, missions, and community service, Aquinas provides the school community opportunities to encounter Christ in meaningful ways. So how has Aquinas been navigating our faith during this pandemic? Joyfully, prayerfully, and gratefully! With some creative problem solving, and getting back to the basics, we’ve been very fortunate to continue those rituals and traditions. RETREATS In lieu of our senior overnight retreats, members of the Class of 2021 took part in a day retreat on campus with field games, prayer services, and small group discussions about the challenges of building relationships with each other, and with God. Our distance learners who were not able to join us on campus were included remotely. Students in grades 6–11 participated in their own retreats during Catholic Schools Week. With the help of the Campus Ministry Team, each student was given a grab and go bag with supplies to create beautiful stained- glass paintings. In fact, the second period Peer Ministers stuffed over 600+ bags all the while collecting food items and money for Aquinas’ annual Thanksgiving Box and Gift Card Program that served over 92 families this year. The stained-glass paintings created by students on retreat are symbolic of how each of us, while unique in our own right, are part of a much bigger and beautiful picture when we all come together. PRAYER SERVICES Morning prayer is a treasured tradition that sets the tone for the day at Aquinas. Together, we continue to pray