Faith
Faith. Purpose. A life of meaning.
Rooted in our Catholic identity and Franciscan heritage, Saint Francis invites students to grow in faith, discover their purpose and live lives of virtue, service and joy.
Faith is woven into the Saint Francis experience, shaping how we learn, serve and care for others. Through prayer, worship and community, students are invited to deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ and discover how faith can guide their lives.
The Spirit of Joy
Find your place in faith
Whether you’re looking to deepen your faith, explore new questions or connect with others, there are opportunities to grow spiritually and find community at Saint Francis.
Worship and prayer
Gather with the Saint Francis community for Mass, prayer and opportunities to grow closer to Christ. Whether faith has always been part of your life or if you’re just beginning to explore, you’re welcome here.
Bible studies and groups
Explore Scripture, ask questions and grow in faith alongside other students. Through Bible studies and faith-based groups, students can build meaningful friendships and discover new perspectives.
Leadership and service
Put your faith into action through service, leadership and opportunities to care for others. Students can develop their gifts, support their communities and discover the impact of living out their values.
“Saint Francis made me want to build a better life and it gave me the tools to do it. It brought me closer to Christ and taught me to be a dependable and caring leader. It made me want more for myself, for my community and for the world.”
Daniel Thompson ‘24 Residential Services Officer, Allen County Corrections
“I’m surprised by how much my faith has grown at Saint Francis. It’s because they don’t push religion on you, but instead, teach values that are broad enough to apply to everyone. It’s made me want to go deeper in my faith, so I attend Bible Study and other events. If I have a question or am struggling, I can ask a professor or one of the Sisters, and we can talk.”
Quin’Shawn Gordon ’25 Educational Studies
“Saint Francis is helping me build the life I want to live, especially because I’ve been able to choose my own experiences. I chose to be in ministry and to grow my relationship with the Lord. This, combined with my major, is helping me discover what I really want to do and who I want to be.”
Amelia Fowerbaugh ’27 Elementary Education
“One of the best things about the Assisi Program is that we’re given tools. We learn about discipleship and leadership and then how to apply it. I’ve learned that leadership requires humility, patience and love.”
Brenden Harrigan ’27 Theology
Faith in action
At Saint Francis, faith is something we live. Through worship, prayer, service and leadership, students can deepen their relationship with Christ and put their faith into practice. These experiences encourage students to care for others, contribute to their communities and live with purpose.
Guidance for your spiritual journey
Faith is a journey, and everyone brings a different story. Through spiritual guidance and meaningful conversations, students can explore their questions, deepen their faith and find support as they navigate life’s challenges.
At Saint Francis, you’re encouraged to seek truth, grow in understanding and discover how faith can shape the person you become.
Our Catholic identity and Franciscan heritage
Founded by the Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration in 1890, the University of Saint Francis is guided by its Catholic mission and Franciscan heritage. Our 100% Catholic Board of Trustees reflects the university’s steadfast commitment to its Catholic identity.
Our faith calls us to form the whole person, preparing students for lives of virtue, service and joy. Our Franciscan tradition inspires us to seek truth, recognize the dignity of every person and respond to the needs of others with generous love.
Our core values guide how we live, learn and serve:
- Ceaseless adoration
We adore God and interact with others in a way that honors His Presence. - Generous love
We spend time in community, give of ourselves and accept help from others. - Franciscan joy
We delight in the simple things and give thanks in all circumstances.
Celebrate our faith traditions
Throughout the academic year, the Saint Francis community comes together to celebrate meaningful moments in our Catholic faith and Franciscan tradition. From the Mass of the Holy Spirit to the Feast of St. Francis, these traditions strengthen our community and remind us of the faith that brings us together.
Discover greater through faith
At Saint Francis, faith offers opportunities to grow, find community and discover a deeper sense of purpose. Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, there’s a place for you here.
