First-Year Ministry
Care for the Whole Person

First-Year Ministry serves as a visible, invitational, and pastorally present team for first-year students to become engaged in activities of service, sacraments, and reflection. In collaboration with Residence Life and the Wellness Center, First-Year Ministry is also dedicated to the personal care of every student through their transition into college. Many of our first-year activities are led by our Loyola Companions.
Meet the First-Year Team
Pastoral presence is provided by chaplains and interns in the first-year residence halls.
North Side Residence Halls - Mertz and Campion
Centennial Forum Student Union
Chaplain: Michael Maher
Intern: Megan "Meg" Marshall
Office: 773-508-2204
South Side Residence Halls - Simpson, Creighton and Regis
Simpson LLC Lobby
Chaplain: Colleen Narbone
Intern: Jacob "Jake" Olzen
Office: 773-508-7004
How you can get involved
Events are open to all first-year students. To take part in any of the events, contact the First-Year Team or apply online.
| Saturday of Service | When | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Don't miss this opportunity to connect with other students and give your time and energy to service projects in the Rogers Park and Edgewater communities. Dress comfortably in clothes suitable for painting, cleaning, etc., including closed shoes. Lunch will be provided. |
August 22, 2009 9am-2pm |
This day will introduces students to each other, the Jesuit mission, and their new neighborhood. |


| Chicago Urban Immersion | When | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| This 48 hour urban immersion has taken participants to different parts of Chicago to learn about some of the social issues in our city as well as listen to the hopes of people struggling to deal with life in Chicago. Apply here. | August 28-30, 2009 September 11-13, 2009 |
This retreat is for students to engage with different parts of Chicago through hands-on experiences. |

| First-Year Explore Retreat | When | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| This retreat is for all first-year students who are invited to explore gifts, curiosities, and talents. This includes group discussions, art, meditation, and downtime. The cost is $50. Financial assistance is available. Apply here. |
October 23-25, 2009 February 19-21, 2010 |
This retreat will help to identify what stirs the deep gladness within your heart. |


First-Year Community Service

First-year students are invited to join us Tuesdays and Fridays from 3-6pm at St. Thomas of Canterbury Soup Kitchen in Uptown. Meet Tuesdays at 3pm or 4pm in the Simpson Lobby and Fridays at 3pm or 4pm in CFSU. No need to sign up but bring your U-Pass!
In-Hall Liturgies and Hospitality Events
Your Loyola Companions and first-year chaplains sponsor study breaks and liturgies in your residence hall. Take a break and come by to say hello and build community!