As a Catholic university, the Gannon community finds it important to promote faith in a way that is easily accessible to students. There are many opportunities for students to celebrate their faith, even if they aren’t Catholic. Gannon’s campus is close to many different churches and temples for those who practice various religions. There’s also space set aside on campus for nondenominational worship or meditation.

To many students on campus, faith is an important part of the college experience. Though required to take a certain number of religious classes, many choose to take extras as electives or declare a minor in theology.

Students can also get involved with Campus Ministry and the Center for Social Concerns to put their faith into action through taking part in weekly mass or volunteering in the Erie area. These students take service trips and work to raise awareness of world issues on campus. Students have helped put together prayer services in recognition of World AIDS Day, and to pray for the Philippines after Typhoon Haiyan. These students also help run the monthly Gathering in Praise services that are held on campus.

Each Tuesday and Thursday, Gannon schedules allow a free hour, during which there are no classes scheduled so that students and professors can take a quick break, grab lunch or run errands. But, one Thursday a month, there is another option during that hour– a prayer service held in the Yehl ballroom. The prayer services serve as both a nice break, and as a chance to reflect on life and your personal faith.

Each Gathering in Praise service has a specific overarching theme. Past themes include celebrations of diversity in faith, women in faith and thanksgiving.

Going to a Gathering in Praise service is a great way to relax and reflect during an otherwise busy day. It’s an opportunity, and a good starting point for putting your faith into action on campus and in your personal life. (And sometimes, there’s lunch!)

If you’ve been to a Gathering in Praise service and enjoyed it, take a minute to stop by the Center for Social Concerns or the Campus Ministry office to talk with those who put it together. Maybe if you have a great idea, it could be added to a future service! Those offices also have a lot of information about other ways you can get involved in living your faith on campus in a community with many other students.