University Ministry: And Just Like That...

Aug. 29, 2025

Look Who Just Rolled In

As we begin a new academic year at the University of San Francisco, we are reminded that each new chapter holds both promise and challenge. The first days of a school year bring energy and anticipation, meeting new people, exploring new courses, and stepping into new responsibilities. At the same time, they may carry questions, uncertainty, or even moments of doubt. In these transitions, we are invited into growth, discovery, and transformation.

For those joining us for the first time, welcome to USF. You are now part of a community that is deeply rooted in the Jesuit tradition, a tradition that calls us to seek knowledge not only for ourselves, but in service of others. Cura personalis, or “care for the whole person,” is at the heart of who we are, reminding us that education is not simply about academics, but about tending to mind, body, and spirit. For those returning, welcome back. May this year be one in which familiar paths open to new opportunities, and where the spirit of Ignatian reflection, asking “Where is God in this moment?” guides your journey.

Living and learning in San Francisco gives us a unique lens for this reflection. Our city is a place of great beauty and diversity, where cultures, languages, and traditions intermingle and inspire. It is also a city that teaches resilience, as we confront challenges both seen and unseen. Even the rhythm of the fog, rolling in each afternoon after the brightness of morning, offers us a spiritual reminder. Like the fog, new beginnings can sometimes cloud our view, leaving us uncertain of what lies ahead. Yet, just as the sun is never gone but only hidden, so too are God’s presence and light constant, even when we cannot see clearly. In the words of St. Ignatius of Loyola, we are invited to “find God in all things” in the clarity and in the fog, in the joys and in the challenges.

This year, let us walk together with open hearts and courageous spirits. Let us embrace the mystery of what lies ahead, trusting that through reflection, community, and service, we will encounter grace in unexpected places. To our new and returning students, faculty, and staff, welcome! May this school year be a time of growth, connection, and deepening faith as we journey together at USF.

University Ministry invites you to throw on your HOKAs and fill up your Stanley to join us for our first-ever walking group. A new way to connect, get outside, and embrace movement together! Open to everyone, this group is all about building community while staying active. Our first walk will take us on a scenic lap around campus, starting at the University Ministry office and including a climb up to Lone Mountain, where we can take in the view and reflect on future walks to spots like the Panhandle, Laurel Village, or Golden Gate Park.

Whether you’re looking for a break from studying, some fresh air, or just good company, we’d love for you to walk with us. See you on the path! For questions, email Caton Daval-Santos.

Sunday, Sept. 7 | 10 a.m.
Saint Ignatius Church

Join Patrick Kennedy, director of advancement here at St. Ignatius Parish, after our 10 a.m. Sunday Mass for a tour of our historic church building. If you're a new parishioner, this is a great way to get to know our worship space and our community.

All newly-registered parishioners are invited to get a feel for our worship, community, and ministries during a 30-minute tour of the church. We also welcome anyone curious about joining our parish and those who would like a refresher on our building!

Thursday, Oct. 2 | 5–6 p.m.
Lone Mountain 100

Cecilia González-Andrieu, president of the Academy of Catholic Hispanic Theologians of the United States and professor of theology at Loyola Marymount University, explores the relevance of Christian faith in a time of chaos and repression. For decades — and from the margins — Latiné theologians have accompanied and lifted up the community’s struggle for survival and dignity, developing insights born of endurance and rooted in lived experience. Today, these ways of seeing and acting hold lessons our whole society can no longer ignore and urgently needs.

Co-sponsored by University Ministry, the Department of Theology and Religious Studies, and Casa Madríz Living Learning Community.

Thursday, Nov. 13 | 6–7:30 p.m.
Fromm Hall, Maraschi Room

Please join us for a timely conversation with Sister Patricia Chappell, SNDdeN. Sister Patricia has worked for decades in nonviolence and anti-racism work. After years as a community organizer, Sister Patricia entered the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur in 1977. She currently serves as the moderator of the leadership team for the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur U.S. East-West Province.

Co-sponsored by University Ministry, the Department of Theology and Religious Studies, and Black Achievement Success and Engagement.

Application Deadline: Sunday, Aug. 31

Rooted in collaboration, compassion, and faith, the Campus and City Connections (CCC) program reflects USF’s mission of celebrating diversity and our shared humanity. Through retreats, interfaith dialogue, service projects, and student-led events, CCC creates meaningful opportunities to engage with underserved communities in San Francisco while building lasting relationships. This year-long program is designed to strengthen leadership, foster empathy, and inspire a deeper sense of shared purpose.

Friday, Sept. 11 | 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
University Ministry 

Start the year with community and connection at our Interfaith Ice Cream Social! Come meet new friends, share in conversation across traditions, receive a blessing for the semester ahead, and enjoy a sweet treat together. Whether you’re new to USF or returning, this is a space to build community, celebrate diversity, and have a good time. All are welcome, come for the ice cream, stay for the joy of connection! 

Friday, Oct. 31 – Sunday, Nov. 2
Jesuit Center Los Altos 

Be part of the Jesuit experience, make more authentic connections, build community, and more! Email Poonam Kakodkar for more information.

Application Deadline: Aug. 30

Join a program of daily prayer, reflection, and regular spiritual direction based on St. Ignatius's Spiritual Exercises in Daily Life (the 19th Annotation). The retreat begins in early September and extends through the entire academic year. People of all faith traditions are welcome to join this retreat, understanding that it is based from within the Christian tradition. 

This is a serious commitment, and a conversation and letter of intent are required to discern whether to make this retreat. If you are interested in the retreat, please email University Chaplain Donal Godfrey, S.J. 

Wednesday, Sept. 10 | 12–1 p.m.
Loyola House Jesuit House

Join University Chaplain Donal Godfrey, S.J., for this lunch book club on the following Wednesdays: Sept. 10, Sept. 24, Oct. 15, and Oct. 29

We will be reading and discussing Cherished  Belonging: The Healing Power of Love in Divided Times by Greg Boyle, S.J., founder of Homeboy Industries. This book club is intended for faculty and staff who are new to the Jesuit mission and want to learn more.

Sundays | 7 p.m.
St. Ignatius Church

Join us every Sunday for our weekly student liturgies! Visit our website or email Laura Díaz-Flaviani to learn more about our student liturgies. Sign up to be in the choir, or participate as an altar server, lector, or Eucharistic minister.

Can't join us in person? Join by watching our livestream on the St. Ignatius Parish site.

Thursdays | 11:30 a.m.
University Ministry, Romero Room

Qmmunity will begin hosting Breaking Bread and the Binary this Thursday and continue every Thursday throughout the fall semester! This is a place to celebrate your true fabulous self and gain nourishment for the body and soul. Questions? Email Rabbi Camille Angel.

Join our USF Catholic Student Fellowship! We meet every Wednesday for community building, faith discussions, and a 15-minute rosary! For more information, please contact Randon Ronquillo.

We would love to see you there! 

Sunday, Sept. 14
Saint Ignatius Church

We invite you to join us for one of our two short, no-commitment info sessions on OCIA. Whether you’re just exploring or considering taking the next step in your faith journey, these sessions are a space to ask questions and learn more.

Thank you for reading our bi-weekly newsletter. If you would like to submit content for future newsletters, please make sure to fill out the UM Newsletter Intake Form. If you have any questions about submissions and deadlines, please email University Ministry.

Content deadline for upcoming newsletter: Sept. 10