By Emily Lapinski

University Ministry not only engages faculty and students, but also members of the community. The beautiful chapel and warmth of the sisters draw in a variety of individuals to come onto campus and celebrate their faith.

There are three opportunities for Mass here on campus. Daily liturgy is offered every day at 5 p.m. as part of the sisters’ daily prayer. Students are welcome to attend this service. There is also a Saturday Mass, which takes place at 5 p.m. This Mass is primarily attended by members of the Oak Park, River Forest and Elmwood Park communities. Sunday Mass is held at 7 p.m.

Vice President for Mission and Ministry Claire Noonan said: “We make the Sunday Mass in the evening so that we can best accommodate students. Some students go home for the weekend but they are usually back by this time. It is also interesting to note that this mass has also gained popularity with the members of the communities. Our chapel is a beautiful and convenient place for them.”

Students Leadership and Ministry is an organization on campus that deals with coordinating as well as outreach. This student-focused organization provides volunteer, service, community and leadership opportunities for Dominican students.

University Ministry also works with different organizations on campus to coordinate special events. Noonan said: “A couple of weeks ago, we had a special Mass for those students returning from the Kairos retreat. At that Mass we not only had Dominican students, but also the friends and families of those who went on the retreat.”

On April 12 at 7 p.m., University Ministry is co-hosting their annual Mass with Polish Club. Over 150 students, families and community members are expected to attend. Polish Club treasurer Sonia Kosmala said, “This Mass is being organized in reverence of Miłosierdzie Boże, celebrating God’s love. It’s going to be a bilingual Mass with the Dominican community and the Polish Club and we welcome everyone to come and celebrate their faith with us.”

Miłosierdzie Boże means “divine mercy.” April 12 is Divine Mercy Sunday, which is a Catholic feast day that celebrates God’s mercy. It originates from Saint Faustina Kowalska, who saw Jesus and his amazing mercy and wanted her to tell the world about it. In the Roman Catholic faith, those who go to the Sacrament of Holy Confession and receive the Eucharist on April 12 will be completely forgiven and absolved from all their sins and will not have to suffer in purgatory or hell