Students attend an outdoor Mass in the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes on campus.

St. Bonaventure University

Faith formation, worship & ministry


University Ministries invites all into the life of the Catholic Church. We enhance faith through liturgical programs, sacraments, worship experiences and all kinds of other activities promoting spiritual formation.

Through University Ministries students can:
  • attend and help with Mass
  • join prayer and reflection groups
  • sing in the choir or play an instrument with music ministries
  • become a full member of the Roman Catholic Church
  • celebrate with us throughout the Liturgical calendar

Faith-based programs & opportunities

  • Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA)
    This is a faith journey in which people become full members of the Catholic Church. It culminates with the person's first-time celebration of the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and the Eucharist.
  • Search Retreat Team
    This student-led faith-sharing team meets each week to support one another's faith journey and to help prepare high school confirmation retreats for area parishes.
  • Ladies in Faith Formation (LIFT)
    This group meets weekly to discuss matters of life, faith and spirituality
  • Encuentro Con Dios
    This is a Spanish language faith-sharing, conversation and prayer group
  • Liturgical Ministries
    We train students for a variety of liturgical ministries including Eucharistic ministry, lector ministry, music ministry, hospitality ministry, Liturgy Committee, and acolyte ministry.
  • Knights of Columbus 
    A campus-based chapter of K of C, a global Catholic fraternal service order, meets monthly and contributes with service projects in the community.