Campus Ministry
Each student has a right to express his/her faith and to participate in all religious activities conducted at Cardinal Ritter. These activities include Mass, Penance Services, class retreats, communion services in the chapel and other services offered throughout the year. Spiritual formation at Cardinal Ritter revolves around the presence of Christ in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist. Holy days and other special occasions are marked by all school celebrations of the mass. Students have the opportunity to receive the Holy Eucharist daily during one of two Communion Services. We welcome at Mass and communion services those Christians who are not united with us. It is a consequence of the sad divisions in Christianity that we cannot extend to them a general invitation to receive communion. Catholics believe that communion is the action of a celebrating community signifying an oneness in faith, life, and worship of the community. Reception of communion (Eucharist) by Christians not fully united with us would imply a oneness which does not yet exist and for which all are called to pray for in the future. The St. Francis Chapel is open during school hours for visits to our Eucharistic Lord. Liturgical seasons of the Church Year such as Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter, and special feasts are given particular attention throughout the school year as we live in Christ.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered during Advent and Lent. Private reconciliation is offered by an appointment with the School Chaplain.
As Catholic Christians we ask that our faith, practices and traditions be respected, even as we seek to respect the various faith practices and traditions represented in our school.
Day of Recollection/Senior Retreat
Underclassmen have the opportunity to take part in a Day of Recollection. Attendance is mandatory. All seniors may take advantage of the senior "Christian Awakening Retreat," a four-day opportunity for self examination. Contact Campus Minister Jeni Lengerich at jlengerich@cardinalritter.org for more information.
What is “Rittertown”?
In a bold move to make a difference in the lives of others, while also living out their Catholic Christian values, Cardinal Ritter Jr./Sr. High School Students have begun a community wide program called “Rittertown”.
Kicked off in November of 2008, the Ritttertown initiative is designed to improve the lives of people in the 1.5 mile radius of Cardinal Ritter Jr./Sr. High School. Programs such as the ‘Raider Rake’, the beautification of Mooreland Park, afterschool tutoring, and the adoption of a senior citizen health facility have added a higher quality of life to residents of the Westside community. Since August of 2008, CRHS students and staff have contributed over 22,000 hours of service to Rittertown.
While Rittertown is not a social service agency, we do have a built in network of volunteers. All CRHS students and organizations are required to participate in Service Learning activities, and we are always looking for new ideas and new places to help. If you know of anyone who could use help, please contact the Rittertown initiative at 536-0604.