Catholic Identity
Saint Joseph High School is one of four Catholic high schools in the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend, is deeply connected to parish partner schools, and maintains its historical and geographic ties with the Congregation of the Holy Cross.
In fact, the values espoused by Saint Joe align with the charisms of the Congregation of the Holy Cross, whose motto Ave Crux Spes Unica (“Hail the Cross, our Only Hope”) is reflected by the cruciform architecture of the school. The Chapel of Saint Joseph is situated at the center of the building, symbolizing that life flows from and toward the Eucharist, and underscoring faith as the cornerstone of the school’s mission.
Saint Joe has been named a National Catholic Honor Roll School of Excellence every year since 2014.
In our community of faith, students live by the example of Jesus Christ and embrace service to others. Each year, students commit to a minimum of 20 hours of Christian Service, which is achieved through partnerships with our local community. Saint Joseph High School prepares servant leaders to go forth and live their faith while serving God, the Church, and the world.
Students complete a core curriculum that includes eight semesters of theology, ranging in topics from Catholic Social Teaching and Sacred Scripture to Morality and Apologetics. Students also experience elements of Truth, Beauty, and Goodness woven into the curriculum across subject areas.
Saint Joseph High School community celebrates Mass together monthly and on special feast days, and participates in daily prayer. The Chapel of Saint Joseph on campus is always open to students and provides a peaceful area to reflect and pray. There, students will find our school chaplains, receive Reconciliation, or attend Mass before school.
The vibrant retreat program allows students to look inwards toward their relationship with God and reflect on His love. Grade level retreats encourage community building, spiritual and personal growth and development, and aim to nurture every student's faith. Additionally, the Rite of Christian Initiation for Teens (RCIT) is offered to those wishing to establish or deepen their membership in the Church. Sacraments are celebrated each spring during the Bishop’s annual visit to the school.
