The Middle School Student Ministry exemplifies how faith and leadership intertwine to foster a thriving community. This initiative empowers Middle School students to explore their expression of Catholic identity through ministry on campus. They lead by example, both within their faith and through service to their peers, embracing the Sacred Heart Goals I and IV: to educate to a personal and active faith in God and the building of community as a Christian value.

The program, developed in response to the growing desire for student involvement in ministry, is an essential component of Sacred Heart education. “The work of ministry—accompaniment, education, and engaging in a life of faith—isn't the work of one person, but of every Sacred Heart educator,” Lower and Middle School Campus Minister Meg Russell shares. “Students often engage most deeply in their faith when they are active participants in it.” The program invites students to take on leadership roles, fostering a sense of welcome, belonging, and inclusion within Stone Ridge’s diverse faith community.

Participation begins with an application process, though students are often encouraged to join based on their interest in leadership and faith-based activities. Mrs. Russell seeks to ensure inclusivity on the team by inviting students with diverse backgrounds and beliefs. “They bring different perspectives that enrich our community,” she says.

Building Leadership Through Faith

Building leadership lies at the heart of becoming a ministry leader. Students are tasked with organizing events, ushering Masses, leading prayers, and mentoring their peers. “If they're willing to live their faith visibly at this stage of their lives, they are already leading,” Mrs. Russell explains.

“Our students are leading with reverence and focus. It’s inspiring to see how their leadership elevates the entire community.”

- Meg Russell, Lower & Middle School Campus Minister

The students’ dedication to leadership shone through during the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. The ministry leaders had a hand in leading every aspect of the Mass, from ushering to delivering the call to worship. Mrs. Russell recounts, “It was beautiful to see them rise to the occasion, modeling reverence and leadership for the entire Middle School community.” This trust and responsibility help students recognize the importance of preparation, teamwork, and taking initiative—essential skills for leadership.

The program also fosters skill development in problem-solving and planning. For instance, students suggested hosting Easter egg hunts during recess, complete with scripture verses and prayers. “They learned the logistics behind organizing such events,” says Mrs. Russell. “From stuffing eggs to planning the activities, they saw that leadership requires coordination and collaboration.”

The Sacred Heart Connection

Middle School Student Ministry is deeply aligned with the Sacred Heart Goals, particularly Goal I, a personal and active faith in God, and Goal IV, the building of community as a Christian value. Ministry leaders actively practice their faith through their roles while encouraging peers to participate meaningfully. They learn to identify and address needs within the community—also a reflection of Goal III’s focus on social awareness, which impels to action. “We are given so many great opportunities to grow as a Sacred Heart community through this ministry,” says Sarah Anglade ’29.

The program nurtures spirituality, providing contemplative spaces for personal growth. Initiatives like open chapel times or weekly prayer gatherings allow students to reflect quietly, fostering a contemplative spirit that supports their active leadership. Mrs. Russell describes, “If my cup is full from time in prayer, I can overflow into the world and better serve others.”

Fostering Joy and Community

The program's impact extends beyond the students involved. By modeling engagement, Mrs. Russell reflects on the transformation she’s witnessed over the years: “Our students are leading with reverence and focus. It’s inspiring to see how their leadership elevates the entire community.”

“It was one of the best decisions that I have made at Stone Ridge,” Eleanor Chadwick ’29 says. “It is a wonderful opportunity to be involved in the community.” She has learned how to usher and greet people at Mass and can share her ideas with newfound confidence. “Altogether, campus ministry strengthens the community.” She notes that being surrounded by others with a strong sense of faith has strengthened her own. Sarah agrees, stating the impact of her involvement as a leader “encouraged me to spread my faith throughout the School.”

With continued efforts to provide students with opportunities for both active and contemplative engagement, the Middle School Student Ministry stands as a testament to the power of faith-based education. It invites and prepares students to lead within their school community and empowers them with skills of ministry and values that will guide them throughout their lives.

As the program evolves, it remains rooted in the mission of Sacred Heart education: forming leaders who live their faith with purpose, compassion, and joy.