The recently completed Student Center at The College of St. Scholastica is more than just an architectural milestone; it is a living laboratory for relationship-building. Through glass walls that invite the outside in, the Campus Ministry office has transformed into a vibrant “front porch” where the Benedictine call to hospitality is felt before a single word is spoken.

The Art of Presence

For Campus Ministry, faith isn’t a program to attend — it’s an encounter to be shared. The center’s open, airy design intentionally strips away barriers, offering an atmosphere of “open-door” belonging.

•  Spontaneous Connection: Comfortable seating and shared tables encourage the kind of informal “hallway ministry” where deep questions often surface over casual greetings.

•  A Visible Invitation: Whether it’s a student seeking a quiet study corner or a curious passerby, the transparency of the space says, “You are seen, and you have a place here.”

“The openness makes it much less intimidating,” reflects David Gunnarson, director of campus ministry. “It creates a natural bridge between a student’s daily life and their spiritual journey.” 

Breaking Bread, Sacred Stories

Relationship-building at St. Scholastica often begins with something as simple as a cup of coffee. Campus Minister Sammi Good Nelson has cultivated this through “First Friday” gatherings, where the draw of signature homemade cold brew serves as a catalyst for community.

These moments of “breaking bread” lead to deeper commitments. Today, the campus culture is defined by:

• Authentic Dialogue: More than ten weekly Bible studies provide consistent spaces for students to share their lives, their questions, their wonderings.
• Accompaniment: Father Joseph Sobolik and newly ordained Deacon David Gunnarson prioritize availability. Whether through regular office hours, service trips or fireside chats, they walk alongside students, offering a steady presence during their formative years. 

A Community of Many Paths

Rooted in a clear Catholic Identity Statement, the college’s approach to faith is centered on the dignity of each person and treating all as Christ. Informed by this treasured Catholic and Benedictine foundation, campus ministry creates a safe harbor for everyone — from the deeply devout to the spiritually curious.

This commitment to trust-based relationships has borne tangible fruit. In the past year, the community celebrated two student leaders entering the Church through OCIA — through the natural attraction of a lived faith.  

Living Community

At St. Scholastica, Campus Ministry serves its highest purpose when it facilitates a “shared life.” From social justice opportunities like Loaves and Fishes to both domestic and international service-learning trips, to Bible studies, to community service, every interaction is an opportunity for building and strengthening community.

“The Holy Spirit is at work here every day,” Gunnarson says. In a world that can often feel fragmented, St. Scholastica is demonstrating that when you strive for welcome, you build a community. Here, faith is not just a subject of study; it is a relationship lived out in common.