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Faith and Service

At its heart, Xavier College is a Jesuit school – in a tradition that calls us to live out our faith and with purpose, compassion, and a deep commitment to others. As a Catholic school in the Jesuit tradition, we are also an educational community committed to responding with generosity to God’s call.

Faith is not just a subject at Xavier; it’s a lived experience. From a wide variety of celebrations of Mass and a strong Religious Education programme that sees no conflict between faith and reason, to moments of quiet reflection, acts of service, care for our common home through sustainability rooted in scripture, and reconciliation initiatives, our students are invited to explore their spirituality and grow in understanding of their faith.

Faith in Daily Life

A Jesuit education integrates faith and reason, encouraging students to reflect deeply, discern wisely, and act justly. Through their studies, students are challenged to think critically, engage with diverse perspectives, and seek truth in all things.

We aim to form young people who are thoughtful, compassionate, and grounded in faith — ready to make a difference in the world.

 

Faith is woven into the rhythm of college life through

  • A wide variety of Masses, that include strong support from our music department, and regular student reflections in our voluntary student Masses and House Masses. There are also regular Class Masses before school on Tuesdays at Burke Hall and Fridays in the Kostka Chapel, led by individual classes from early years to Year 8.
  • Retreats and reflection days occur across all year levels, including four voluntary Kairos retreats for our Senior students.
  • A Religious Education curriculum that includes a VCE Texts and Traditions course.
  • Nourishing a spirituality that contributes to the wellbeing of students.
  • Sustainability initiatives rooted in scripture.
  • Reconciliation initiatives that form part of our spiritual life.
 

Ignatian Service at Xavier College

Ignatian Service is a cornerstone of student life at Xavier College, deeply rooted in the Jesuit tradition of forming “Men and Women for Others.” As a Jesuit and Catholic school committed to faith and justice, Xavier encourages students not only to believe, but to act – to live out their values through meaningful service to others.

Through a wide range of programs, students are invited to share their time and talents generously, especially with those on the margins of society. Whether through direct service, fundraising, or raising awareness, students engage with local, national, and international communities. These opportunities are supported by staff and transport where needed, and students who cannot participate in school-led initiatives are encouraged to seek service opportunities within their own communities.

Authentic Ignatian Service is not just about helping – it’s about walking alongside others. It fosters empathy, understanding, and a deeper sense of purpose. Students learn to look beyond themselves, becoming more aware of the needs of others and the social structures that shape people’s lives. From supporting local charities to assisting marginalised communities overseas, Ignatian Service is practiced across all year levels, instilling a lifelong commitment to justice and compassion.

At Xavier College, privilege comes with responsibility. Students are called to use their gifts to make a difference – to learn from others, to grow through service, and to contribute to building a more just and loving world. Community service is also an integral and compulsory part of the Xavier curriculum, ensuring that students embrace the spirit of service and carry it with them throughout their lives.

 

Weekly Service Opportunities

  • Aged Care Visits (Years 7–8): Students attend in tutor groups and engage with residents through music, conversation, games, and light exercise. A RAT test is required on the morning of the visit.
  • Homeless Shelter Meal Service (Years 11–12): Students assist with meal preparation and service once a month. Minimum age requirement applies.
  • Aged Care Visits (Years 9–12): Students chat and walk with residents or assist with activities led by staff.
  • Knitting for the Homeless (Years 9–12): Held at school, students knit scarves for distribution during the Homelessness City Walk. No experience required.
  • Primary School Support (Years 7–8): Students assist with playground activities, tutoring, and general support tasks.
  • Online Reading Program (Years 9–12): Students read with primary-aged children from migrant and refugee backgrounds via supervised Teams meetings. A briefing and code of conduct agreement are required.
  • Homelessness City Walk (Years 11–12): Monthly event involving training, donation packing, and engaging with rough sleepers in the CBD. Includes dinner and transport.
  • Aged Care Visits at St Vincent’s Aged Care in Kew (Years 3-6): Students attend in homeroom groups and engage with residents through music, conversation, games, and light exercise. 
  • Community Centre Support at St Mary’s House of Welcome in Fitzroy (Years 7–8): Students cook, serve, and clean up while engaging with clients.
  • Aged Care Visits (Years 9–12): Students assist with activities and social interaction.
  • Inclusive School Support (Years 9–12): Students help with general tasks around the school, supporting children with learning challenges.
  • Aged Care Visits (Years 9–12): Students engage with residents through conversation and activities.
  • Educational Support Program (Years 9–12 + selected Year 8 students): Students tutor children from migrant and refugee backgrounds. Transport is provided back to school. A briefing and code of conduct agreement are required.
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