Departments
Religion and Chaplaincy
Our Religious Studies Department provides a comprehensive Catholic education throughout each student’s high school career. Students are required to take one Religion course each academic year, totaling four credits by graduation. The program includes class retreats, prayer, reflection, and community service. Students will learn about Catholicism in Grades 9, 10, and 12, and will comparatively explore a variety of world religions in Grade 11.
We believe that Religious Education fosters a Catholic identity that nourishes the lifelong faith development of every student. Our focus is on Scripture, Catholic Social Teaching, ethical and moral formation, prayer and sacramental living, and family life education.
Students may also engage in chaplaincy initiatives such as Peer Ministry through our “LCS Faith Fam.” Our Chaplaincy program is designed to directly complement the Religion program. Each year, students participate in religious retreats focused on learning and service in various ways (e.g., St. Nicholas of Bari Parish, Places of Worship Tour, Gospel Peacemaking Retreats). Through liturgy and communal worship at our local church, social justice projects, and the formation of character through growth in the virtuous life, all members of the school community learn to make their Christ-centered faith meaningful.
As a department, we aim to prepare students to navigate a diverse society while recognizing the call of God and the dignity of every person.
All students can expect to embark on a journey exploring the Christian narrative as revealed in Sacred Scripture. Courses delve into the joys and challenges of living out the call to discipleship through the four Ls—Liberate, Lead, Launch, and Love. Students will deepen their understanding of discipleship through the Sacred Tradition of the Church, including the Sacraments, the Liturgical Year, Church teachings, and Canon Law. They will also explore Catholic rituals, practices, morals, values, and virtues to cultivate a healthy and covenantal relationship with themselves, God, and others.
Through theological reflection, students will examine connections and differences between major ethical concepts and issues as understood by the Church and contemporary culture.
Overall, the Religious Education program emphasizes the importance of knowing and loving by following in the footsteps of Jesus. By studying His words and deeds, students recognize the importance of serving the community in a prayerful way to help bring about the Reign of God. We aim to foster personal growth, faith understanding, and a strong spiritual foundation throughout students’ high school years. We encourage all students to embrace their role as disciples and engage with Church teachings while critically reflecting on the intersection of faith and contemporary society.
In Grades 9 and 10, Religion is offered at the Open level for all students. In Grades 11 and 12, courses are offered at the Open or “M” (University/College) level. These courses lay the foundation for diverse post-secondary pathways, including careers in religious education, pastoral ministry, or chaplaincy within the Catholic Church. Further studies in theology, religious studies, or philosophy can lead to opportunities in academia, research, or teaching.
The study of world religions is also valuable in fields such as international relations, cultural studies, social work, and interfaith dialogue. These courses foster critical thinking, empathy, and a broader perspective, enhancing cross-cultural understanding and ethical decision-making skills.
More than anything, Religious Education at Loretto College School fosters critical thinking, empathy, and a lasting foundation for living a faith-filled, compassionate life in a diverse and complex world.
Chaplaincy
The goal of Chaplaincy is to strengthen the faith life and moral conscience of the school, and to lead by example in witnessing the Gospel and serving others.
Mrs. Crudo-Perri, the school chaplain, with the support of the Faith Fam, plans and assists with school Masses, food drives, and various charitable initiatives that serve both the school and local communities.
LCS Faith Fam
The Faith Fam Peer Ministers are a group of students who serve the school and support initiatives that are spiritual in nature.
Their contributions are invaluable, helping to foster a strong sense of community and spiritual life within the school. Through their dedication, leadership, and service, they help create a welcoming and faith-filled environment for students, staff, and visitors.
Their responsibilities include assisting at school Masses by proclaiming readings, serving during liturgical celebrations, and welcoming members of the school community. They also support outreach initiatives, including Student Council events such as the annual Christmas basket collection and distribution.
During chaplaincy initiatives such as Reconciliation, Stations of the Cross, and Mary Ward celebrations, they help ensure that events run smoothly and respectfully. They also volunteer to lead morning prayers, helping begin each day with faith, reflection, and a sense of community.
Mary Ward School Chapel
The Loretto College School Chapel is a warm and welcoming sacred space where students, staff, and visitors are invited to pause from the busyness of daily life and spend time in quiet prayer, reflection, and contemplation. Rooted in the traditions and values of the Loretto community, the Chapel nurtures faith, hope, compassion, and spiritual growth.
Throughout the school year, the Chapel serves as a gathering place for liturgies, prayer services, retreats, and special celebrations that strengthen the spiritual life of the school community. It is a place where students can seek comfort, express gratitude, reflect on personal intentions, and find moments of stillness and connection.
Since the celebration of the 100th anniversary of Loretto College School, the Chapel has also become home to the Legacy Tree—a meaningful symbol honouring the memories, contributions, and lasting impact of students, staff, alumni, and friends.
At LCS, we are proud to put our faith into action. Rooted in the vision of Mary Ward and inspired by the mission of the Loretto Sisters, we are called to seek truth, act with courage, and recognize the dignity of every person. Mary Ward believed that women and girls should be educated to lead, serve, and transform the world around them.
Her vision continues to guide us today as we grow in knowledge and justice.