Faith & Service
Life at Holy Cross means readily participating in a dialogue about basic human questions — in the classroom, in the chapel, and through service and solidarity programs around the world.
We lead our lives in service to our mission: “The College of the Holy Cross is, by tradition and choice, a Jesuit liberal arts college serving the Catholic community, American society and the wider world.”
Holy Cross is ranked No. 4 on The Wall Street Journal’s list of best Catholic colleges in America.
As members of the Holy Cross community, we are all called to act on our faith and convictions by living as men and women for and with others.
Founded in 1540, the Society of Jesus (whose members are known as the Jesuits) promotes spirituality and education that lead to a life of generosity and solidarity with those in need.
Jesuit education is a lifelong process of discernment that involves understanding the questions within ourselves and in the world around us, discovering what matters most, and living a life of service in accordance with these beliefs.
Attending Mass is never mandatory, though many students find it a rich and comforting way to connect with the Holy Cross community. We celebrate Catholic Mass and offer a weekly interdenominational service, as well as ecumenical and interfaith prayer opportunities.
Carrying out the Jesuit motto of being “men and women for and with others” is commonplace at Holy Cross. Whether it’s taking periods of reflection on retreats, or making a difference in the Greater Worcester community with Student Programs for Urban Development, members of the Holy Cross community act on their beliefs every day.
The Chaplains’ Office serves to strengthen your spiritual life through retreats, community service, worship and more. Here we welcome students of all religious backgrounds, encouraging you to reach your fullest potential by integrating your academic life with your faith.
Interdenominational ministry at Holy Cross creates space for students of many religious traditions to connect with each other and grow deeper in their own faith, while affirming all we hold in common.
Holy Cross is a multi-faith community that values the diverse backgrounds our students bring to campus. We’re proud to maintain a safe and welcoming environment, where discussions of purpose and meaning take place among students from a wide range of faiths, traditions and beliefs.
At the Rev. Michael C. McFarland, S.J. Center for Religion, Ethics and Culture, we host lectures, events and activities that focus on core human questions related to morality, responsibility and justice.
Catholics and Cultures is an online global initiative of the McFarland Center for Religion, Ethics and Culture, seeking to build greater understanding of the religious lives and practices of Catholics across the globe.
The Office of the Vice President for Mission exists to sustain and promote the distinctive mission of Holy Cross.
A place to reflect. A place to pray. A place to ponder. Our campus offers tranquil spaces dedicated to both religious celebration and solitary contemplation. Our spiritual retreats hosted by the Joyce Contemplative Center, located 20 minutes from campus, give students, staff, and alumni the opportunity to reflect, pray, and deepen their relationship with God.
All Holy Cross alumni and staff members are invited to celebrate the joyful sacraments of marriage and baptism at St. Joseph Memorial Chapel.