How Service and Faith Shape the Marist High School Experience
By Michael Brennan ’99, Director of Campus Ministry at Marist High School
At Marist High School, education goes beyond the classroom. Families choose us not only for strong college prep but also for the values that guide our students throughout life. Faith and service are central to the Marist experience, shaping students into compassionate leaders who live their faith and are prepared to make a difference in the world.
A Catholic Foundation
Our school’s mission is rooted in the Marist tradition of faith, family, and future. Daily prayer, liturgies, and opportunities for reflection help students deepen their relationship with God. These experiences give our students a strong moral foundation that guides their choices in high school, college, and beyond.
Retreats that Transform
Marist students have the opportunity to step away from the classroom and participate in retreats designed for personal and spiritual growth. These experiences allow them to reflect on their faith, their relationships, and their role in the world. Many alumni tell us that retreats are among their most memorable Marist experiences.
Retreats are offered at every grade level, beginning with a required Freshmen Retreat at the Marist SportsPlex. Led by trained juniors and seniors, this one-day retreat introduces students to the core values of a Marist education and their role in our local and global community.
As sophomores, students take part in a required one-day retreat at the Marist SportsPlex focused on prayer, mental health, and wellness. Co-led with the Student Services Department, the retreat introduces different forms of prayer while also guiding students in ways to de-stress, relax, and care for their well-being.
During junior year, students take part in a two-day retreat that provides time for reflection, prayer, and companionship during what can be a busy and stressful year. They share experiences with decision-making, stress, family, and faith, while learning how to both find and offer support.
Finally, seniors are invited to experience Kairos, a powerful three-and-a-half day retreat that has become a tradition in Catholic high schools across the country. At Marist, Kairos includes student and adult talks, small and large group discussions, daily prayer and reflection, confession, and Mass. The goal is for students to develop trust in themselves and others and to strengthen their relationship with God. We currently offer five Kairos retreats for female students and four for male students, hosted at retreat houses in Frankfort and Lemont.
Kairos is not required, but all seniors are encouraged to attend, and many describe it as life-changing. The retreat begins on a Tuesday afternoon and concludes on Friday evening. Students step away from their phones and everyday distractions to fully immerse in the experience. Financial assistance is available to ensure every student has the chance to participate.
Together, these retreats create a progression of spiritual growth throughout a student’s time at Marist, guiding them to discover who they are, what they believe, and how they can live out their faith in the world.
Service as a Way of Life
At Marist, service is not an occasional activity but a core part of who we are. From local service projects in Chicago to national and international opportunities, students learn the value of giving back. They discover firsthand the joy of helping others and the responsibility of living their faith in action.
Student Spotlight: Maggie Doyle, Class of 2727
“Service at Marist has changed the way I see the world. It isn’t just about completing hours — I like being able to see the impact I can make on my community. These experiences have helped me grow in my faith and given me the confidence to lead with compassion.”
— Maggie Doyle, Class of 2027
Building Character Through Community
Faith and service are not just individual pursuits — they are lived out in community. Students work together on service projects, attend Mass as a school, and support one another in living the Marist values. This sense of shared purpose helps create the close-knit, family-like atmosphere that Marist is known for.
Frequently Asked Questions
What role does faith play at Marist High School?
Faith is woven into daily life at Marist through prayer, liturgies, retreats, and service opportunities, helping students grow spiritually and morally.
Do students have to be Catholic to attend Marist?
No. While Marist is a Catholic school, students of all faith backgrounds are welcome. Everyone is encouraged to grow in their own faith while learning the values of compassion, service, and respect.
How much service do Marist students complete?
Service is an ongoing part of student life. Each grade level participates in projects, with many students going above and beyond with different voluntary initiatives.
Why do families value faith-based education?
Families appreciate that Marist combines academic excellence with a values-based foundation, preparing students not just for college, but for a meaningful life of faith and service.
Final Thoughts
At Marist High School, faith and service are not add-ons — they are at the heart of who we are. By combining rigorous academics with a Catholic foundation, we prepare students to lead with compassion, integrity, and purpose.
👉 Learn more about how faith and service shape our community. Explore Campus Ministry at Marist and see why we are Chicago’s trusted Catholic faith-based high school.
📌 Author: Michael Brennan ’99, Director of Campus Ministry, Marist High School
