A Legacy of Service Rooted in Faith
In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Marist High School reflects on the spirit of service that continues to shape student life across campus. Service at Marist is more than a requirement. It is an expression of faith, compassion, and civic responsibility that calls students to put their gifts and talents into action for the good of others.
Grounded in the Marist Brothers’ tradition, students are encouraged to serve quietly, intentionally, and with purpose, living out the values of faith, family, and future in meaningful ways.
Service Opportunities That Make an Impact
During the fall 2025 semester, Marist students participated in more than 20 service opportunities offered through Campus Ministry, completing over 500 hours of local volunteer service. Students from every grade level engaged with organizations across Chicagoland, including Elim Christian Services, Lake Katherine Nature Center, Park Lawn, Pro Labore Dei, Big Shoulders Fund, Lighthouse Church of All Nations, and others.
Marist intentionally seeks service experiences that are academically relevant, skill-building, and connected to real community needs. These opportunities allow students to connect learning with action while developing empathy, leadership, and a deeper understanding of their role in the world.
“Service at Marist is not an occasional activity but a core part of who we are,” said Michael Brennan ’99, Director of Campus Ministry at Marist High School. “Through faith, retreats, and service, our students learn how to live their values and lead with compassion in the world.”
Service Beyond the Classroom and the Field
Service at Marist extends beyond Campus Ministry and into athletics and co-curricular life. Many Marist sports teams completed team-based service initiatives this year, with coaches and student-athletes recognizing that serving together encourages greater participation and deeper engagement.
By working side by side, students experience the power of collective service and build stronger connections with one another and the communities they serve.
A Weekend of Immersion in Milwaukee
In November, Marist students traveled to Milwaukee for a weekend service immersion at City on a Hill, an organization dedicated to transforming lives in the central city through hands-on ministry. Students spent the weekend serving individuals and families while deepening their understanding of faith in action.
Senior Natalie Smith reflected on the experience, saying, “My favorite part was seeing the smiles and happiness of the kids we were serving.”
Experiences like this help students see the immediate impact of their service and inspire a lifelong commitment to helping others.
Student Voices: Service That Shapes Perspective
For many students, service at Marist becomes a defining part of their high school experience. Maggie Doyle, Class of 2027, shared how service has shaped her outlook and leadership.
“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.”
Looking Ahead: Continuing the Call to Serve
Service remains a central focus throughout the spring semester. Upcoming opportunities include projects with Jim’s Bridge, Special Olympics, Gaelic Park, the Almost Home organization, and more. Students will also participate in a mission trip to Cincinnati in March.
On April 21, the Class of 2026 will take part in Senior Service Day, offering seniors the opportunity to give back together one final time before graduation. This shared experience reflects Marist’s belief that service is not just something students do, but part of who they become.
Doing Good Quietly
Through initiatives such as the Milwaukee City on a Hill service trip, Lake Katherine Nature Center clean-up, Almost Home cooking project and the Big Shoulders Fund, and the Posen Christmas Pass-Out at the Posen Community Center, Marist students live out the Marist pillar of simplicity.
By doing good quietly and intentionally, students learn to lead lives of faith, purpose, and compassion, honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through action, service, and love for others.
