Faith & Service

To participate in the life of Holy Cross is to accept an invitation to join in dialogue about basic human questions — in the classroom, the chapel and through service and solidarity programs around the world.

Mission-Driven

As our mission states, “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.”

Among the Best

Holy Cross is ranked No. 4 on Wall Street Journal's list of best Catholic colleges in America.  

Faith and Service at Holy Cross
As members of the Holy Cross community, we are all called to act on our faith convictions by living as men and women for and with others.
Jesuit Tradition
Founded in 1540, the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) has always promoted spirituality and education leading to generosity, interior freedom and solidarity with those in need.
Jesuit Education
Jesuit education is a continual process of discernment that involves learning to understand ourselves and the world around us, discovering the things that matter most and acting on our convictions.
Worship Schedule
While attending Mass is never mandatory, many of our students take advantage of this opportunity to contemplate and connect with others. We celebrate Catholic Mass and a weekly interdenominational service, as well as additional ecumenical and interfaith prayer opportunities.
Faith and Service Opportunities
From contemplating their place in the world during an Escape retreat to meeting those whom they serve at more than 40 sites throughout Worcester (through the SPUD program), members of the Holy Cross community reflect and act on their beliefs in myriad ways.
Chaplains’ Office
Our chaplains facilitate many of our faith-based events and activities, celebrate Mass on campus and serve as guides and counselors to our students.
Interdenominational
Led by Holy Cross students and the chaplain to Protestant ministries, interdenominational worship takes place Sundays at 4:30 p.m. in McCooey Chapel. Bible study and other fellowship events are held regularly throughout the year.
Interfaith
Our students come from diverse backgrounds and practice a variety of faiths. Holy Cross is a safe and welcoming community where discussions of purpose and meaning take place among students from a range of faith traditions and beliefs.
McFarland Center for Religion, Ethics, & Culture
The Rev. Michael C. McFarland, S.J. Center for Religion, Ethics and Culture hosts lectures, events and activities focusing on core human questions related to morality, responsibility and justice.
Catholics and Cultures
The online global initiative seeks to build greater understanding of the religious lives and practices of Catholics worldwide.
Office of Mission
The vice president for mission works to sustain and promote the distinctive mission of Holy Cross as a Catholic, Jesuit, liberal arts college.
Weddings and Infant Baptisms
Holy Cross alums and staff members are invited to celebrate the sacraments of marriage and baptism at St. Joseph Memorial Chapel.
Facilities and Spaces
Our peaceful campus offers spaces dedicated to both religious celebration and solitary contemplation.