Dear Aquinas Parents,
We’ve had a beautiful start to the year in Campus Ministry! Here’s a quick update on all that’s been happening — and a look at what’s ahead.
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Retreats
All retreats for grades 6 and 9–12 are now complete!
- 6th Grade enjoyed a Pilgrimage to the Holy Family Shrine, prayed the life-size Stations at Cloisters on the Platte, and spent time in the beauty of God’s creation at Schramm Park.
- Boys 9–11 (with senior peer leaders) experienced a day of fraternity and faith at St. Gregory the Great Seminary.
- Girls 9–11 (with senior peer leaders) encountered Jesus in a special way at St. John the Baptist Parish for their “Come to Me” retreat.
Thank you for your prayers, encouragement, and financial support — these experiences truly help our students encounter Christ in deeper ways!
Coming soon:
The final retreat of the year for 7th–8th graders: IGNITE retreat will take place Wednesday, Nov. 12 at the Holtus Convention Center in York, in collaboration with St. Cecilia (Hastings) and Bishop Neumann (Wahoo).
Students will need to arrive at school by 7:05 a.m. and we’ll depart shortly after (7:15 a.m.). Breakfast sandwiches will be provided (thank you to our amazing cooks!). Permission forms are due by or before November 7th. Please make sure you have this on your calendars for our early departure (we will return home for regular end of school day release).
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Bring Your Rosary to School Day — Oct. 29
In honor of the Month of the Rosary, our whole school prayed the Rosary together during LIFE Academy time on October 29.
We invited all students to bring a rosary to school that day — and we encourage families to pray one together at home for our school community and students.
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LIFE Academy: The Power of the Rosary Rotation
Our second LIFE Academy rotation has focused on The Power of the Rosary and the 15 Promises given to St. Dominic.
- In the Choir Room, students have been learning about these promises.
- In the Cafeteria, they’ve joined middle and high school partners for Rosary-themed Kahoot games and fellowship–and food of course!
- In the Chapel, each “School” (Faith, Hope, Fortitude, and Humility) has prayed a Rosary together.
- In the Gym, they’ve enjoyed a little “blind faith” fun playing Human Hungry Hippos blind-fold edition— earning bonus points by answering Rosary related questions!
During Society time, our focus continues to be on gratitude (especially on Mondays) and the power of our words (on Thursdays). Students are learning how their words — both internal self-talk and external encouragement — shape who they are and how they build up others. Recently, students began creating “Power Names” — affirming adjectives that remind them of their God-given identity and strength! We also watched this video to set the tone for our conversations. It is an impactful visual to consider!
High school and middle school girls also have optional Bible studies during Monday society time. Encourage your daughters to join in!
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High School Faith Opportunities
🪩 Diocesan Barn Dance – Nov. 9 (5–7 p.m.)
High school students are invited to join youth from across the diocese for an evening of swing dancing and fun at Pius X High School!
A sign-up sheet is posted by Mrs. Yindrick’s door. We’ll determine carpooling or group transportation based on interest — so please sign up soon!
🌄 TEC (Teens Encounter Christ)
This weekend retreat for sophomores and older helps young people encounter Jesus in a powerful, personal way. Students can talk to Mrs. Yindrick, Mr. Wehrs, Miss DeWispelare, or any priest for more details. Cost: $120. It is so worth the investment of time and money!
Upcoming TEC dates:
- TEC #130 — Dec. 6–8, 2025 | Neb. City Lourdes
- TEC #131 — Feb. 14–16, 2026 | Wahoo Neumann
- TEC #132 — Mar. 21–23, 2026 | David City Aquinas
- TEC #133 — Apr. 18–20, 2026 | Camp Kateri (McCool Jct.)
🌟 Steubenville Youth Conference 2026: “I’m Worthy”
Dates have just been announced: July 10-12, 2026, in Springfield, MO.
Open to incoming freshmen through outgoing seniors. Details will be shared in religion classes soon — but please save the dates now!
A $50 deposit (due early January) secures your spot. Total cost with transportation, hotel and registration (with most meals) will likely be $425-450—to be determined with bus/hotel costs being explored. Scholarships are available.
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🙏 You’re Invited: First Friday Adoration – Nov. 7
Please join us for First Friday Adoration in the Aquinas Chapel from 11:00 a.m.–3:25 p.m.
You’re welcome to sign up for a specific prayer time here or simply drop in anytime during those hours.
We’ll also celebrate First Friday Mass and devotions earlier in the day, with adoration following. Your prayers for our students, school, and Aquinas community are deeply appreciated. (If it’s more convenient, the elementary school will also have Adoration at St. Mary’s that same day.)
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Thank you for being part of the mission of Campus Ministry — helping our students grow into disciples for life–starting with knowing they are beloved Children of God! Your prayers, encouragement, and support make all of this possible.
With gratitude and joy,