Over the past several years, Campus Ministry at Immaculata University has experienced a remarkable transformation—one defined not just by recovery, but by renewal. What began as a period of disruption during the COVID-19 pandemic has evolved into a thriving, student-centered community rooted in faith, service and meaningful connection.
For Sister Christina Marie Roberts, IHM, director of Campus Ministry, and Lauren Kolenda, assistant director, this journey is more than a timeline—it is a story of resilience and reawakening. Through intentional outreach and creative programming, Campus Ministry has reemerged as a vital presence on campus.
Like many campus programs, Campus Ministry faced unprecedented challenges in 2020–2021. In-person gatherings paused, student engagement declined and community life shifted into a largely virtual space. Yet even in isolation, Campus Ministry persevered in their efforts to support students with care, faith and presence, especially during those uncertain times.
As of Spring 2026, Campus Ministry is welcoming an average of 185 students each week, up significantly from 75 students in Spring 2025. This growth underscores not only increased interest, but a sustained commitment from students seeking community, connection and opportunities to deepen their faith.
By 2022, that mission turned toward rebuilding. As students returned to campus, so did opportunities for connection. Small groups, social gatherings and faith-based programming gradually resumed, creating welcoming spaces for students to reconnect—not only with one another, but with a sense of purpose and belonging.
Building Momentum Through Community and Leadership
The 2022–2023 academic year marked a turning point for Campus Ministry, as it expanded its offerings by introducing programs that are now central to student life: Community Nights, Movie Nights, Bible Studies and Men’s and Women’s Groups. These initiatives provided multiple ways for students to engage, whether they were seeking faith formation, friendship or simply a place to unwind.
By 2024, participation continued to rise and programming evolved to meet students where they were—both spiritually and socially. One standout addition was Holy Adventure, an outdoor experience blending nature, reflection and synodal listening. Through guided conversations and shared exploration, students were invited to slow down, listen deeply and encounter faith in new ways.
At the same time, ministry staff and student leaders emphasized presence, meeting students in everyday moments, attending campus events and fostering organic connections that extended beyond structured programming.
A Surge in Growth and Impact
2025 brought measurable momentum. Weekly student participation increased by nearly 80% from spring to fall—a reflection of both consistency and growing enthusiasm. Expanded small groups, retreats and partnerships with campus offices contributed to this surge, as did a diverse range of offerings spanning faith, service and social engagement.
Equally important was the growth of student leadership. The Peer Ministry Leadership Team began to take on a more active role in shaping programming and guiding their peers. Collaboration across campus also increased, extending Campus Ministry’s reach and strengthening its role within the broader University community.
As of Spring 2026, Campus Ministry is welcoming an average of 185 students each week, up significantly from 75 students in Spring 2025. This growth underscores not only increased interest, but a sustained commitment from students seeking community, connection and opportunities to deepen their faith.
At its heart, Campus Ministry continues to cultivate a “home away from home,” a space where students can feel seen, welcomed and valued.
Moments That Matter
The current academic year has been marked by powerful expressions of faith and community. A large turnout for Ash Wednesday 2026 signaled a renewed spiritual curiosity among students. In response to Pope Leo XIV’s call for all Catholics and people of goodwill to pray, Immaculata University’s Campus Ministry held its own outdoor Adoration and Prayer Vigil for Peace on Back Campus, offering a visible and shared moment of reflection.
Student leadership has also taken center stage. The Journeys Retreat, designed and led by peer ministers, invited participants into deeper reflection on the Beatitudes and the practice of listening in a fast-paced world. Other traditions, like Friendsgiving Community Night and the Senior Crossroads Retreat in Stone Harbor, continue to anchor the year with moments of gratitude, transition and connection.
Beyond campus, students are living out their faith through service. From visiting the IHM Sisters at Camilla Hall to supporting local outreach through the Saints Philip and James CARES Program in Exton, Campus Ministry has strengthened its ties to the surrounding community. Students also serve at the IHM Spirituality Center and Safe Harbor in West Chester and participate in spring break service trips with Habitat for Humanity.
These experiences extend learning beyond the classroom, helping students grow personally and spiritually while making a tangible difference in the lives of others.
Looking Ahead
As Campus Ministry continues to grow, its focus remains clear: fostering connection, developing student leaders and creating meaningful opportunities for engagement. Plans for expanded retreats, increased service initiatives and a leadership formation program are already underway.
Grounded in the charism of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary—Love, Creative Hope and Fidelity—Campus Ministry offers more than events, it offers belonging.
As Sister Christina Marie Roberts and Kolenda emphasize, success is not measured solely in numbers, but in connection: students discovering their voice, deepening their faith and finding a community that grows alongside them.
