Cardinal O’Malley Visits Merrimack to Meet with Students

Cardinal Seán O'Malley visited Merrimack College March 14 to meet with students in the Austin Scholars Living Learning Community and hear their reflections on the community service they perform in Lawrence and Lowell.

“It was very edifying to see how this program has given our young people a sense of mission and a greater understanding of their faith and the social gospel,” Cardinal O’Malley wrote in his blog following the meeting.

Students who are members of the Austin Scholars program volunteer for two hours of service each week during the school year at one of 10 not-for-profit organizations. The volunteer work puts their lessons on Catholic social teaching into practical application, said Sister Jeanne Gribaudo, CSJ, the program director. Social teaching on human dignity and the common good includes principles on caring for the poor and vulnerable, and caring for the Earth.

The program’s immersion into the non-profit organizations helps the students build incredible bonds and relationships while developing a deep understanding of the issues facing the non-profit organizations, she said.

“The thing that is different about Austin Scholars is that it lasts more than a semester,” Sister Jeanne said. “Some of the students have volunteered for two years.”

SHARE THIS ARTICLE

Related News

AD Announcement - 1200x670

Joe Foley Named Merrimack College Director of Athletics

 |
By: Joseph O'Connell
The Massachusetts native will bring more than 25 years of college athletics leadership experience to the role beginning May 14.
Roosan story

New Associate Professor Says AI is the Antidote to Healthcare Challenges

 |
By: Joseph O'Connell
Don Roosan, who joined the faculty in Merrimack College’s School of Engineering and Computational Sciences this fall, is among the nation’s leading experts in quantum AI and its impact on healthcare.
Schola Banner

Catholic Choir Festival at Carnegie Hall

 |
By: Dawnisha Chavez
Merrimack College Schola Singers perform at the “Voices in the Hall” Choir Festival