Service Program Philosophy
We are called by Christ to be his hands and feet by showing love, compassion and mercy to those who are poor in spirit, mind and body. Community service is at the heart of our Catholic mission at St. Thomas Aquinas. Students are guided and mentored through their service journey through their four years at STA. It is hoped that students will develop a genuine appreciation for (and an understanding of) the call to be of service to others and that it becomes a lifelong part of their lives.
Types of Service
The service in which students are engaged should be based on the Corporal Works of Mercy and Catholic Social Teaching:
Corporal Works of Mercy
- Feed the hungry
- Give drink to the thirsty
- Shelter the homeless
- Clothe the naked
- Visit the sick and imprisoned
- Bury the dead
- Give alms to the poor
Catholic Social Teaching Principles
Life and Dignity of the Human Person – all life is sacred and the dignity of each person is the foundation of a moral society
Call to Community – we are social beings and being so must help take care of each other
Rights and Responsibilities – everyone’s rights and dignity are our responsibility
Preferential Option for the Poor and Vulnerable – prioritize the needs of those most vulnerable
Dignity of Workers and the Rights of Workers – protect the right to work, to earn fair and decent wages
Solidarity – despite the things that may divide us, we are one family
Care of God’s Creation – we are called to be good stewards of our planet and its resources
Requirements by Academic Year
2020-21
| 9 | 2024 | 10 hrs* (Service hours can be completed at multiple sites in their community and/or at St. Thomas Aquinas) |
| 10 | 2023 | 15 hrs (Service hours can be completed in the community, church, etc. and at multiple sites) |
| 11 | 2022 | 20 hrs (Hours to be completed at one site) |
| 12 | 2021 | 25 hrs or Mission Trip** (Service hours to be completed at one site or on one trip) |
Students are to complete hours by March 8 and will receive a Pass/Fail grade on their 4th quarter report cards. While some service opportunities will be provided by St. Thomas Aquinas High School, students are also encouraged to search for opportunities to serve those in need in their communities.
*Freshmen may complete their service hours in their community or at events at St. Thomas Aquinas but only hours before or after school will count toward the requirements.
*Students must log all hours through our service portal www.x2VOL.com Please see Mr. Adams for assistance.
**Mission trips that are offered by St. Thomas Aquinas, churches or other organizations are encouraged; these will count toward a student's senior year requirement. Students may take part in mission trips at any point in their time at St. Thomas Aquinas and those hours can be used toward the requirements each year. A mission trip may be used toward a student's senior requirement at any point during their time at St. Thomas Aquinas as long as it is not used toward service hours for a previous year. For example, if a sophomore completes his/her 15 hours of service and in addition takes part in a service trip, the trip can be counted toward the senior year requirement.
