Through classes and activities, students and faculty attempt to discover what it means to have Jesus Christ as our model. In each relationship, Jesus' words, "Whatsoever you do to the least of my sisters and brothers, this you do unto me," give a special meaning to our efforts to reach out to those in need.
The biblical call to "act justly, to love tenderly, and to walk humbly with God" leads us to responsible action in our needy world. The School's philosophy, based on Gospel values, focuses on a central theme of a belief in the dignity and worth of every human being. This, too, confirms our desire to participate in the betterment of life for all.
Service to others is an essential element of Christian living. Experience, exposure, education, and prayerful reflection make it possible to grow in a commitment to service. Because Connelly School believes in Jesus Christ and in serving others, a required Campus Ministry Service Program is part of each student's education.
Goals 1) To offer experiences which expose students to areas that need social transformation. 2) To provide the opportunity for students to engage in responsible action which leads to the enrichment of all. 3) To help each student shift her focus beyond her individual needs, thus deepening her commitment to serve others. 4) To encourage faculty and family participation in and support of the Campus Ministry Service Program. 5) To encourage a life-long commitment to service.
Service Day The entire school volunteers on Service Day each year. To emphasize the importance of the commitment to service, the entire school closes for one day each year while students, faculty, staff, alumnae and parents participate in an assortment of service activities. After a communal prayer service at school, everyone boards buses for a host of destinations in Orange County to spend the day helping others. Sites include nursing homes, food banks and warehouses, a farm that feeds the poor, thrift shops, schools, beaches, and shelters. Upon return to school, all gather at the school to share their experiences of the day.
Graduation Requirement
Because Connelly's holistic education "promotes . . . social responsibility in addition to academic excellence," 80 hours of documented service are required for graduation.
In ninth and tenth grades, students complete eight hours in each of four areas emphasizing service to children, the poor, the ecology and the elderly. After sampling a variety of service opportunities, juniors and seniors are encouraged to complete their required 24 hours per year in focusing in one area. In this way, they gain the depth and scope of a commitment, and begin the habit of life-long service.
Looking for a place to serve? If you are searching for ideas for service areas check this website: www.OneOc.org. Click on Youth & Family, then go to I Can Volunteer for pages of service areas according to cities in Orange County. We also recommend www.handsonnetwork.org . Visit the site and choose an area of interest at top right, then type in your zip code. The site will give you volunteer locations close to home, but you'll have to research those groups to get more information. Please contact Mrs. Fitzsimmons (tfitzsimmons@connellyhs.org) , the Service Program Coordinator, to get more information about community service.
"The dedicated and supportive teachers and faculty, the energetic and welcoming students, the openness and comfort of the campus, I knew Connelly was the school for me." Katherine, Class of 2011
"Catherine has become a caring, lovely, confident, well-rounded young lady. We are grateful that she has received such an excellent foundation in her religious and academic education. She is well equipped to handle life's challenges." Grandparents, John & Anna Wippler
