Alumnus Says Mass at Christendom
Last week Christendom Alumnus Fr. Fred Gruber ('06) visited his alma mater to say Mass in Christ the King Chapel. Fr. Gruber, who was ordained this summer, is priest in the Diocese of
Pittsburgh.

Fr. Gruber says that, at Christendom, through his friendships, his involvement in various apostolates, and his studies, he discovered more clearly his calling toward the diocesan priesthood.

“Christendom taught me ‘to think with the Church’ and to love the Church,” he says.

Click here to find out more about Fr. Gruber's experience at Christendom and his journey to the priesthood.


Talent Shines at Benefit Concert
On Friday, The Senior Benefit Concert for the Class of 2013 was held in Saint Kilian’s Café. The concert acted as the first event to a very fun filled Parent’s Weekend and was a huge success! The night, which showcased many of Christendom’s finest musicians, began with a beautiful rendition of “America the Beautiful," sang by the Chapel Choir. By the time the opening act was up, Saint Kilian’s was filled with supporters and thus began a night flowing with food, drinks, and fantastic music. From bagpipe playing, to Irish dancing, and family quartets, this year’s Senior Benefit Concert was a huge success.

"It was a great way to see some of this College’s talent all in one night,” said Senior Sarah Halbur.

The event, organized by Senior David Townsend, raised $733 dollars for the Senior Class Gift.


The night starts off with a moving choir rendition of “America the Beautiful.”


Sophomore Leif Pilegaard gets the crowd on their feet with his lively fiddle playing.


Sophomore Noah De la Cruz fills Kilian’s Café with songs from his bagpipe.


Seniors Teresa Lamirande and Eric Maschue get the crowd to sing along to “Mr. Jones.”


The Stanton sisters invite their father on stage to make it a family affair!



Parents Hit the Dance Floor
As part of Parent’s Weekend, a special dance was held in the St. Lawrence Commons on Saturday night. The visiting parents and siblings had a wonderful time learning new dances and several Christendom students led instructional dances for them. Freshman Catherine McFadden, Junior James Ciskanik, and Seniors Theresa Lamirande and Peter Spiering taught students and parents many classic swing dance moves, and Senior Rachel Kujawa led several contra-style line dances.

“It was really great to meet my friends’ parents and to see everybody having so much fun at the dance this weekend,” says Freshman Irene Dempsey. “It was also the first experience I had with contra dancing, which I especially loved.”


Senior Matt Speer swings his sister around the room.


Students show off their swing dance moves to parents.


Sophomore Liz Slaten dances with her sister.


Parents enjoy dancing Christendom-style.



Happy Birthday Bilbo and Frodo!Saturday, September 22, was certainly no ordinary day at the Christendom library. Students, family, faculty, and staff crowded into the Sacred Grounds coffee shop that afternoon to find it transformed into a “hobbit hole,” full of delicacies and festivity to celebrate the official birthday of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins from Tolkein’s The Lord of the Rings.

Associate librarian Mr. Pilon began the event by inviting everyone out on the lawn behind the library to play some traditional hobbit games. Everyone enjoyed sack races, a ‘plate-rolling’ competition, and an exciting three-legged race. Some guests impressed all the party-goers by reciting passages from The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings from memory. A couple students even performed a song from the sound track of the Lord of the Rings movies. A crowd of fans dressed in Middle-Earth attire participated in a costume parade to a lot of laughter and applause. Mr. Pilon presented all the amazing characters that had come to the party, including several Bilbos, assorted other hobbits, a few elves and even an Ent.

“I loved it!” said Sophomore Lindsey Trapp. “It was really cool that it was so authentic—everything was a lot of fun!”

The festivities came to a satisfactory conclusion with the crowd gathering inside the ‘hobbit-hole’ and singing “Happy Birthday” to Bilbo and Frodo. Everyone enjoyed a slice or two of the beautiful cakes baked for the occasion.


Mr. Pilon poses with the costumed party-goers.


Freshman Anna Rogers, Sophomore Brian Rankin, Senior Sean Deighan and some siblings get ready for the sack race.


Students compete in an intense round of the three-legged race.



Men's Open House
“We did our best to clean up, but unfortunately I don’t think we can measure up to the Women’s open house," Sophomore Andre Moreau joked during the Men’s Open House on Sunday.

After a weekend of family visits and activities, the Open House was a great way to unwind and enjoy each other’s company. Music continuously filled the halls of the guy’s residence halls throughout the day and guitar collaborations were often taking place from room to room. A disco ball and strobe light seemed to get everyone’s attention in one of the freshman dorm rooms of St. Ben’s.

It was another successful Open House and a great way to spend a breezy Sunday afternoon.


Freshman Thomas Smith, Eileen Weichert, Nate Harrington, and Duncan Forsythe relax during Men’s Open House.


Freshman Suzy Curran fills the halls with sounds of the electric guitar.







World Tourism Day!
After so many weeks of freedom and traveling, we were brought back to reality with our first week of classes. It consisted of a four-hours-a-day crash course in Italian which proved challenging yet interesting, thanks to our tutor, Professoressa Benzaia. As a professional linguist, she was able to point out connections between Italian and other languages, which was helpful for us Christendom students familiar with French, Latin, Greek (all offered by the college) or Spanish. She encouraged us to use Italian in class and reminded us that the fastest way to learn a language is through speaking… and making mistakes. I quickly learned how true this was after accidentally telling the class I love cauliflower, intending to say horses. I will never forget the basic pronunciation rule we were learning that day!

With the beginning of our happy classes, we were treated to a video message from the Rome program co-coordinator (as well as philosophy teacher on Christendom’s home campus) Professor Mark Wunsch. While describing the various special courses offered, he explained the course’s intention for us to engage with the material, not only in the classroom but in the city. More importantly, he emphasized the importance our semester in Rome will have not just academically, but spiritually in our lives. His point tied into the meditations provided by Fr. Bergida during our pilgrimage week, which encouraged us to view the few months abroad not as simply another school semester but as one whole pilgrimage.

I was also reminded of an article, which I read in the National Catholic Register, entitled “Encountering Christ on Vacation.” Written in anticipation of World Tourism Day (today–September 27), the article reflected on the ability of tourists to contemplate beauty in nature and peoples, through which they may encounter with God. Pope Benedict explained further that this encounter becomes possible only when people both accept other cultures and also desire to be enriched by them, “welcoming the true, good, and beautiful therein.”

Charged then by both professors and the Pope, my fellow classmates and I did not miss the weekend opportunity to experience various places around Rome. Many students, for example, went to nearby Nettuno beach to enjoy the coast of Italy and the Mediterranean Sea for the first time. Right next to the shore, students were also able to visit the tomb of St. Maria Goretti and the surrounding area of Nettuno for gelato (Italian ice cream) and kebabs (a middle–eastern delicacy that is all the rage over here).

Personally, I took the weekend to travel across Italy to visit San Giovanni Rotondo, St. "Padre" Pio’s home. Though a little daunted by traveling overnight on my own, I felt the opportunity to visit my confirmation saint’s home for his feast day was not something to pass up. My faith was completely rewarded, for it turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life. Getting the opportunity to experience the life of my favorite-childhood saint was beyond words. To see the cell where he lived and had so many physical battles with devils, pray in the chapel he celebrated Mass in and the confessional made famous by the soul-reader—to see the cross he received his stigmata from and the altar cloths stained from the wounds—all made concrete what I grew up reading in books and believing through my faith. The problem of traveling alone was also solved, as an Italian family I met in San Giovanni “adopted” me during my stay. Showing me around their city and even treating me to meals, they defined Italian hospitality and cultural pride.

After participating in Sunday Mass at the shrine with 30,000 other pilgrims, I said goodbye to the family and took the bus back to Rome. Following such a weekend, I could not help but reflect on a phrase of Padre Pio and how it applies not only to my personal journey, but to the journey of all of us students here together in the Eternal City: “Pray. Hope. And don’t worry.”


Chillin' at Nettuno on the Mediterranean Sea.


The old shrine of Padre Pio at San Giovanni Rotondo.


Padre Pio's confessional.


Cardinal Camillo Ruini said the Mass on Sunday.


Katie Shannon and Joe Marra discover how to use and Italian pay-phone.





Forming the Next Generation of Catholic Educators
One of the most important fields where Catholics are needed most is education. In an effort to encourage students to enter this field and aid in the transition from "sitting in a class" to "standing before a class," Christendom offers a Teacher Formation Program.

The Program is offered to senior students to give them the opportunity to be an Apprentice Teacher under a Master Teacher at one of several elementary and high schools in the area. This pre-certification program allows undergraduate students to observe and pursue a career in education, and to acquire teaching skills, while at the same time attaining six credits in one semester. Christendom students first spend six hours a week observing different schools and classes, and then actually teaching lessons to both small groups and whole classes.

“The teaching practicum program is excellent, for it allows Christendom students to utilize and expand their learning, organizational, and teaching skills,” says Senior Zack Francis. “You get the chance to observe professional teachers in the classroom and the opportunity to work in this environment yourself, so that you get to a point where you can also teach the material yourself.”

Dr. Eleanor Kelly, the Teacher Formation Program Director, conducts weekly workshops with the students, where students turn in weekly logs with their observations from the week. As an Apprentice Teacher, each student can choose to teach at one of five different schools, and he or she can also decide the grade level (K-12). Dr. Kelly, along with a group of the Christendom Apprentice Teachers, observes each Apprentice Teacher twice, and at the post-lesson observation conference, they all share analyses of the lesson presentations.

Christendom students benefit greatly from the Teacher Formation Program because it not only gives them an opportunity to gain experience in the teaching profession, but it gives them greater confidence in a professional setting and the communication skills necessary to go out into the workplace after graduation. Many Christendom students who participate in the Teacher Formation Program go out after graduation to teach in Catholic and lay-run private schools, as well as to pursue a Master’s Degree. It is also a valuable asset for those interested in home schooling.

“Being immersed in the teaching side of the education system has truly helped me to grow as a student through observation and practice,” says Senior Natalie Lucas. “The Teacher Formation Program is both practically applicable for anyone considering a teaching profession and beneficial for anyone in general because of the many valuable life lessons that it imparts.”


Dr. Kelly with students in this semester's Teacher Formation Program.

Soccer Teams Victorious

Men’s and Women’s soccer continued their dominating streak last Monday as both squads earned impressive victories over rivals Lord Fairfax and Patrick Henry. Over the last four games the two teams in blue and white have let up only 2 goals, while outscoring opponents by an incredible 21 goal margin.

The Men’s team followed their Friday night shutout victory with a 7-1 win over Lord Fairfax. Junior Johnny Foeckler put the Crusaders in the lead within the first few minutes, and they never looked back. seniors Rob Hamilton and Nicholas Blank, along with freshman Jeremy Minick and Sean Salmon, also pitched in goals of their own in route to a blowout victory.

On the opposite side of the field Senior Dan Mitchell once again lead a dominating defense to a near shutout. Young freshman Jeremy Minick, cocky but eager to prove himself, may have summarized the recent play of the defense best, stating: “Rob Hamilton is an animal, Tim Beer is a beast, and Charlie Rollino is Mr. Consistency and you have to go through all three to score, therefore no one scores.”

The Lady Crusaders had a slightly tougher time earning their 2-1 victory against in-state rival Patrick Henry. The defense would go nearly 90 minutes before surrendering another goal, allowing the ladies to hang on to the 2-1 victory.

Like the men, the ladies team scored early behind the efforts of Freshman Maribel Lopez. Then, before the close of the first half, Melanie Clark would chip in another goal. In the second half, the defense would lead the way to victory, anchored by sophomore Rebekah Koerner, freshman Mary McDuffie, and senior Karen Hambleton. Sophomore Elizabeth Slaten and freshman Sarah Furth would give superb performances in goal and a late corner kick goal by Patrick Henry would not be enough to surmount the Lady Crusaders lead.

Last night the Lady Crusaders continued their winning ways be defeating local foe, Lord Fairfax Community College by a score of 3-2. The women are back in action on Saturday as they host Valley Forge Christian College at 1pm. The game will be played at Sherando Park in Stephens City, VA.

Freshman Sean Salmon charges down the field.

Senior Tommy Salmon knocks one into the goal.


Freshman Jeremy Minick fights for control in the goal box.


Freshman Patrick Audino slides one into the goal.


Freshman Rachel Snyder takes a shot.


Freshman Maribel Lopez tries to sneak one past the goalie.


Junior Mel Clark takes a shot on goal.

Q. I was talking to my friend the other day and Christendom came up. I said, “Oh, are you also interested in going to Christendom?” She said, “I was, until I found out that you can’t get loans if you attend Christendom.” Is this true? I hope not because you guys are my top choice and I definitely NEED to get some sort of financial aid help or I will not be able to attend.

A. In short, what your friend says is not true, in fact, straight out wrong. But I understand where she may have gone wrong in her understanding.

Christendom does not accept any aid from the federal government, and our students are unable to get federal loans to pay for a Christendom education. In fact, Christendom is the only accredited Catholic college in the US not to participate in Title IV Federal funds. So, sometimes people hear this and think we do not offer any loans.

BUT……we do offer financial aid which comes in the form of loans (which you have to repay someday), grants (free money), and scholarships (free money). And this money comes from Christendom – due to the generosity of our many faithful donors, rather than from the government and the tax payers. While we accept no direct federal aid, nor participate in indirect programs of federal aid such as the Student Guaranteed Loan, we maintain a robust financial assistance program that matches and mirrors support received through federal aid programs.

We have a strong commitment to providing a comprehensive Financial Aid Program for our students. We offer financial assistance through our need-based aid and merit-based academic scholarships. Need-based aid consists of loans and grants while merit-based scholarships are granted automatically upon acceptance, and are based on your SAT (1920 or higher) or ACT (29 or higher) score. All students are also able to apply for on-campus student employment, regardless of their financial situation. We currently have approximately 160 on-campus jobs for our students. Each student who has a job works 9 hours a week, making around $7-$8 an hour, and should end up making about $1000 a semester.

Christendom's financial aid is given to help defray all or some part of the cost of tuition. Outside loan programs are available as well to help Christendom students defray the cost of room and board, fees, books, and living expenses not covered by our Financial Aid Program.

Students wishing to request need-based financial aid from the College need to fill out the College's unique Financial Aid Application form and not the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. However, if you are completing a FAFSA for other colleges, much of the FAFSA information is easily transferable to Christendom's Financial Aid Application form. For those who want to find out NOW an estimate of what they might be given in financial assistance should fill in our Financial Aid Estimator, anytime between now and December 1.

Director of Admissions
tmcfadden@christendom.edu
800.877.5456 ext. 1290

If anyone has questions about applying, visiting, scholarships, financial aid, campus life, rules and regulations, majors, core curriculum, transfer credits, or even about the food here at Christendom, please do not hesitate to contact me at any time.

Never Forget
“We will never forget.”

These words resounded throughout the nation on September 11, 2012, as our country took time to remember the anniversary of the deadly terrorist attacks, and Christendom College was no exception.

A crowd gathered behind the Regina Coeli building to attend a prayerful commemoration of this fateful day led by Chaplain Fr. Donald Planty. Members of the Christendom College choir started off the ceremony by giving a powerful rendition of “America the Beautiful.” Students and faculty alike then watched as Father blessed the flag, which was then raised to half-mast by sophomores and Eagle Scouts Stephen Treacy and Philip Gilbert.

Father led the crowd in a prayer for our country which was written by Bishop John Carroll, the first Roman Catholic bishop and archbishop in the United States. The memorial ended with the whole crowd proudly singing the national anthem.


Fr. Planty blesses the flag.


President O’Donnell and participants say the Pledge of Allegiance.


The flag is raised to half-mast in honor of the victims.



The Pope's Theologian Comes to Christendom
Rev. Wojciech Giertych, the Theologian of the Papal Household, addressed the students and faculty last Friday. Part of the college's 35th Anniversary Academic Convocation Weekend, Rev. Giertych, who spoke on the Polish historian Feliks Koneczy, received an honorary doctorate—his first ever—during a special ceremony in front of the entire college community.

As the Theologian of the Papal Household, Rev. Giertych serves as a private theological consultant to the Pope. He has the task of providing the Holy Father with advice on theological issues, and checking all papal texts to ensure that ideas are conveyed with clarity, as well as serving as a sounding board for the Pope's theological ideas. Since the Middle Ages, the post has been held by Dominicans.

“Since [Koneczy] disagreed with the Marxist claim that the class struggle is the motor of history and instead saw the role of morality in history, he was condemned to oblivion in the communist period,” Giertych said.

Read this fascinating lecture here or listen to it at Christendom on iTunes U.


Fr. Giertych celebrated Mass for the College on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.


On Friday, the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, the College's relic of the True Cross was on display for veneration.


Rev. Giertych receives the honorary doctorate from College President Timothy O'Donnell.


Rev. Giertych chats with students following his talk.


Following the address, students and faculty enjoyed a festive reception in Piazza San Lorenzo.


Fireworks lit up the sky during the festive reception.





Shield of Roses
Last week, 20 students attended Shield of Roses, Christendom's pro-life prayer club that travels into D.C. every week to prayerfully protest Planned Parenthood. So far this semester, Shield has been a success with an average of almost thirty students in attendance each week.

"It's really encouraging to see so much enthusiasm among the students, especially the freshmen," remarked senior Chris Roberts, president of Shield. "If this keeps up, we are really hopeful that this year will be a success."

Last week, by the grace of God, one young woman decided to keep her baby.


Students kneel as they pray the sorrowful mysteries of the Rosary in front of the Planned Parenthood abortuary.



35th Anniversary DancePart of the College's celebrations for the 35th Anniversary was a semi-formal dance held on Saturday. The outside of Saint Lawrence Commons was decorated to fit the elegant theme. A tent, covering the main fountain, was strung with lights and bouquets of beautiful white flowers. It was obvious by just looking at the decorations, that a lot of time and energy was put into making the celebration as nice as possible. Once guests arrived, dressed in their best attire, the dancing began to pick up.

“The entire celebratory weekend was a fantastic way to celebrate the 35th anniversary of our college!” said Sophomore Mark Turner.

As the night progressed, swing dancing quickly turned into a night of the Virginia Reel and cotton eye joe. It was another night of great dancing, food, and company, to celebrate an important milestone in the history of Christendom College.


Sophomore Steven Treacy swings it up with partner Gabi Muskett.


Freshman Madeleine Deighan enjoys a dance with Junior Andrew Clark.




Blessing the Founder's Headstone
On Sunday, following the 10 a.m. community Mass, Fr. Donald Planty and Fr. Giertych led a procession to the resting place of College founder Dr. Warren Carroll. There Fr. Planty blessed the new beautifully hand-crafted headstone.

Check out the video below:



Wiffleball Finals Heat Up the Gym
The opening game of the wiffleball finals pitted Team Blank vs. Team Rollino to decide who would advance to the intramural semi-final. Despite lacking their power hitter Melody Wood, who was recently placed on injured reserves, the Blanks, along with Junior Sean LaRochelle, would capture a 3-1 victory behind a two run homer by Senior Nicholas Blank and a solo shot by Freshman Peter Blank. A late home run by Junior Jon Fioramonti would not be enough as the Blanks would advance to the Semi-Final to take on Peter Hill, Pat Audino, John McWhirter, and Jeremy Minick. Heading into the second, the Blanks trailed 3-2 and were unable to stage a late comeback. A dominating four strikeout pitching performance by Freshman Jeremy Minick and a two run Homerun by Pat Audino, along with Peter Hill’s RBI single, brought Team Hill into the final. There they would face Team Mitchell, coming off an exciting semi-final victory that was capped off by Senior Dan Mitchell’s walk off homerun.

The Championship game couldn’t have started off much worse for Team Hill, as four consecutive walks gave Team Mitchell an early lead and loaded the bases for Senior Dan Mitchell. He would capitalize on the opportunity with a two-run RBI double giving Team Mitchell an early 3-0 lead. Mitchell would add a Grand Slam to go along with another homerun from sophomore John David Speer allowing Team Mitchell to cruise to a 9-3 victory to take home the championship.



Music Appreciation Night
Classical music filled Kilian’s Café Wednesday evening as students were treated to this year’s first Music Appreciation Night. The new event consisted of a couple hours devoted to allowing students to spend time in quiet relaxation and study while listening to different classical pieces and learning about the composers who wrote them. Theology Professor Raymund O’Herron hosted the evening and began by introducing the featured piece, Russian Easter Overture, and giving some history about the composer, Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov.

“It was a refreshing and effective way to re-group and organize my thoughts,” said Sophomore Peter Duecher.

As the music played over the stereo, some students sat quietly and listened, while others used this as a time to get some studying or reading done. Mr. O’Herron put on two more pieces after Rimsky-Korsavok, and preceded each one by giving some background. Everyone enjoyed Concerto for Piano and Orchestra by Edvard Grieg, and the night ended on an elegant note with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9.


The college plans to host at least two more Music Appreciation Nights during the fall semester, each hosted by a different professor.





Ciao and Welcome to Rome!

So much has happened in the past few weeks!

To catch you up a little… the Rome semester begins a little later than school normally does, so students took advantage of the extra time by beginning their European experience by country-hopping. Leaving at the end of August, I traveled with two friends to Ireland, England, France, and Belgium enjoying each of the different cultures – from Belgian waffles to Mass at Notre Dame to watching the Taming of the Shrew at the Globe Theater. We also met up under the Eiffel Tower with other students traveling beforehand and were able to swap stories. Besides being able to experience different countries, we realized one of the biggest benefits of traveling before the semester is the ability to beat jet-lag. The minute we arrived in Residence Candia (the hotel we’ll call home for the next three months) the coordinators and alumni Elizabeth Walsh and Gabe Schuberg gave us a quick introduction to the program and then we were off to Assisi and Siena for a week long pilgrimage.

The trip began in Assisi, a small but charming town made famous by two great saints born there. Walking down the same streets as Sts. Francis and Clare it was impossible not to enter into the meditative spirit of the pilgrimage. We enjoyed several tours to the local churches– it’s amazing that such a small town has so many! Among the number we visited were the Cathedral of San Rufino (where Clare and Francis were both baptized), the Basilica of Santa Chiara (housing both St. Clare’s relics and the cross of San Damiano), and the Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi (where St. Francis died and was buried.) We were blessed to have Father Bergida, a friend of Christendom College, traveling with us to say Mass at many of the churches and shrines, including the tomb of St. Francis, the Church of San Damiano (famously rebuilt by St. Francis), and the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli. I will always remember the basilica because we visited and celebrated Mass there on the anniversary of September 11th. Also during our tour of the basilica, our tour guide pointed out a plaque commemorating the first International Meeting of Prayer for Peace proposed by Pope John Paul II in 1986. The concept of international religious leaders convening to pray together at the basilica was powerful and our visit on the anniversary of a day torn by religious animosity could not have been better planned.

After staying in Assisi for four days, the second leg of our pilgrimage took us to Siena, the city of St. Catherine. We were surprised and excited to find our hotel was situated directly beside the Sanctuary of St. Catherine, originally her family home. Though we had less time in the larger city than we’d had in small Assisi, we discovered Siena holds its own charm. For instance, the city is still divided into contrada, each represented by an animal or mascot and having its own boundary and distinct identity. Reminiscent of medieval times, the tradition leads to much rivalry, especially twice a year during the Palio horse race. The entire city congregates in the main piazza to watch the race, beginning with the dedication of the horses in various churches (yes, the horse is in the church) in the contrada districts. The winning contrada celebrates with a huge feast prepared for weeks and celebrated in October. The people of Siena know how to celebrate. We were able to see the horse-shaped tent being constructed by the contrada of the Dolphin, the recent victors. The feasting at the long tables would continue for days, the winning horse naturally honored with the seat at the head of the table. Though sad we were just missing the feast, we were all anxious to return to Rome and to begin classes.

When we arrived back at Residence Candia, we were given our room assignments and contrada titles for each room. The first afternoon we had in Rome was spent on a scavenger hunt around the city, intended to help us figure out the bus and metro system…and encourage healthy rivalry between the contradas. Despite our loss, I offered to make the team dinner to celebrate. Fast-forward through preparing the pasta and maybe spilling the entire platter on the floor as I went to serve it, the evening ended with crackers, salsa, soda and good company.

There’s something about being in Rome that makes everything okay.


Chillin' at Kilkenny Castle, Ireland.


Traveling to the Rock of Cashel in Ireland.


On tour in Assisi.


Group shot at the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli.


Dining with Fr. Bergida.


The glorious facade of the Duomo in Siena.


On tour in Siena.


On the scavenger hunt in Rome at Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi in Piazza Navona.




An Unparalleled Catholic Identity
“Catholicism is the air we breathe.”

This well-known motto of Christendom College describes how a joyful Catholic spirit permeates every aspect of campus life in a strong yet natural way.

Spiritual life on campus is strong. There is daily Mass, frequent Confession, and plenty of opportunities for personal spiritual growth, from the Oremus Prayer Group to Shield of Roses, to mission trips.
Christendom’s Catholic identity presents itself in academics too. All the courses taught on campus are imbued with a Catholic perspective.

“Learning from a Catholic viewpoint has made me realize how all of the classes, pertaining in some way or another to Christianity, are intrinsically connected to each other,” explains freshman Elisabeth Willson.

The professors are all Catholic, and annually make a Profession of Faith before the Bishop and take the Oath of Fidelity to the Magisterium, promising to be faithful to the Church in everything they teach. Moreover, they serve as role models for students.

“Last year, I was able to participate in the 'Help the Homeless' Program with Prof. Brown and it was a life-changing experience bringing the love of Christ outside of Christendom by serving others," says Junior Maribeth Kelly. "It is a blessing to have so many professors who are so dedicated to these ministries.”

Christendom residence life itself promotes and cultivates virtue. From the modesty dress code to inter-visitation policies in the dorms, the rules governing Christendom’s student body emphasize the Christian dignity of each student. Even dorm life promotes the Faith in its own way—floor activities allow residents to bond and spend quality time together doing a floor Holy Hour or Rosary, or merely having fun doing things such as apple picking.

Sophomore Leif Pilegaard sees the natural incorporation of the Faith into everyday activities as a unique aspect of Christendom that bolsters his own character.

“It’s awesome that Christendom is so Catholic because when I go outside my study time to be with my friends and participate in activities, I know I will have a great time because Christendom has taught me through its Catholic identity to do every act for Jesus and for the love of my neighbor,” he says.

Find out more here.

Epic: Upper vs. Under

Over 3000 years ago there was David vs. Goliath. Thirty-Two years ago there was the Miracle on Ice. Five years ago there was the great super bowl upset of the Giants over the undefeated Patriots. And then there was the Upper vs. Under Game last Sunday. But for this young freshman team there would be no duplication of any of these historic upsets.

From the opening whistle to the last drive the team of sophomores, juniors, and seniors would dominate all aspects of the game. Led by the superb senior quarterback Nicholas Blank, who threw for three touchdowns, and a backfield featuring Junior Johnny Foeckler (one rushing TD), and sophomores Thomas Maurer (two rushing TDs), and Larry Urgo (two rushing TDs) the Upper’s offense would lead the way to a near flawless 54-0 victory.

Yet the defense, led by senior Mark Hepler (three sacks), sophomore defensive tackle Micah Davis (eight solo tackles), and free safety Charlie Rollino (one interception) was equally impressive in the shutout performance. They did not allow a first down until the last drive and forced four turnovers. The Under’s offense, led by Nate Harrington at quarterback, had little room to breathe as the Upper line, anchored by Hepler and sophomore Bobby Crnkovich, dominated the war in the trenches and applied constant pressure to an inexperienced offensive unit.

On the Under’s side freshman quarterback Harrington was complemented at tailback by Ryan Tappe, (who also started in the secondary and contributed the Under team’s only interception) and wide out Jeremy Minick. Will Scrivener was one of the Under team’s most versatile weapons, as he helped secure both lines while also serving as tight end and fullback.

In the end though the speed, strength, athleticism, and execution of the Upper’s squad could not be matched and this game will go into the books as another blowout in a long series of lopsided Upper vs. Under games.

Andrew Clark falls backward for the touchdown pass.


Sophomore Larry Urgo flies down field.


Freshman Nick Murphy takes the ball up field.


Freshman Nate Harrington looks for his open man.




Q. I was wondering about the financial aid statement on your website which says that some student loans can be deferred for lay apostolic work and missionary work. Can the same amount of debt be paid off for missionary workers as for those entering the priesthood/religious life? What kinds of missionary or apostolic work and how many years of it can qualify someone for debt forgiveness, and how much debt can missionaries expect to be paid off?

A. Here's the deal.

If a student gets loans from Christendom, and then they decide to pursue a vocation and enter a house of formation or seminary (for an order that takes a vow of poverty), then they do not need to pay back their loans, and no interest accrues during that time. If they end up saying final vows or getting ordained, the debt is completely forgiven and erased. If they end up coming out and choosing to not join a religious order that takes a vow of poverty, then they have to start paying back the loan.

We are able to do this because we do not take Federal funds and when our students get loans, they get them from us (the money comes from our generous donors rather than Uncle Obama and taxpayers), and that is why we are able to forgive the debt in this manner.

If someone ends up deciding to do some type of apostolic/missionary work after graduation, they can take up to four years of not paying anything back toward their loans, and during this time, no interest accrues either. This applies to people who go to graduate school as well. People can pay money back during these four years, and any money they pay back will have not accrued any interest. So, after four years of paying the loan down, whatever amount is left will be the amount that interest is computed on.

Only those entering religious life or priesthood who take a vow of poverty can be forgiven of their debt. Someone can work for a Catholic apostolate, such as Christendom or a Catholic school or parish or pro-life group, or they can actually do missionary work overseas or in the US. Basically, the group has to be recognized as a Catholic apostolate by the Catholic Church.

And finally, anyone interested in knowing if they are eligible for loans and grants from Christendom is welcome to fill in our Financial Aid Estimator. You can do so anytime between now and December 1.

Director of Admissions
tmcfadden@christendom.edu
800.877.5456 ext. 1290

If anyone has questions about applying, visiting, scholarships, financial aid, campus life, rules and regulations, majors, core curriculum, transfer credits, or even about the food here at Christendom, please do not hesitate to contact me at any time.

Discovering God's Mercy
Christendom girls of all grades filled the lower level of the library Friday night with excited chatter and laughter as they enjoyed Women’s Convocation, which was hosted by the seniors. After sampling delicious snacks, everyone bonded through some fast-paced games, including a dress-up race.

Director of Residence Life Amanda Graf and Student Activities Director Caitlin Bowers introduced the theme of this years’ convocation—mercy, in particular, the loving mercy of God. They explained that this is a theme that will run through the college’s ongoing formation series during the fall semester. Afterwards, participants broke into small groups to discuss more intensely the meaning of this virtue in their lives.

The evening ended with some words from guest speaker Maura Byrne. Maura is a resident of Nashville and the founder of Made in His Image Ministry, a Catholic organization dedicated to providing physical, emotional and spiritual assistance and support to women struggling with issues such as eating disorders and depression. Maura shared her personal encounter with God’s mercy. Her life’s story brought tears to many listeners’ eyes, but also filled everyone with a sense of hope and renewal.

“I really enjoyed Maura’s heartfelt talk to the girls on campus,” said Sophomore Jane Riccardi. “She spoke about relevant challenges and issues many girls struggle with today, in a way that was very relatable.”


Tasty fare was on hand to make the evening even more pleasant.


Ladies discuss the meaning of God's mercy in their lives.


Freshmen Sarah Furth, Mary Blicharz and Julie Rollino can’t help laughing at the costume on their classmate Madison Jennings.


Guest speaker Maura Byrne tells the story of her encounter with God’s mercy.



Praying Like A Man
The Men of Christendom gathered n the top floor of Crusader Gymnasium for their annual convocation. Organized by Residence Life Director James Hannon, the theme of the evening was "How to Pray Like a Man." College Chaplain Fr. Donald Planty kicked the evening off with a talk which explained some of the challenges that men face in prayer and gave some practical advice on overcoming those challenges.

Local alumnus Ben McMahon ('04) then spoke briefly on his experience as a Christendom student and the important role that St. Louis de Monfort's True Devotion to Mary played in his prayer life. The floor was then opened to questions and discussions on prayer and the spiritual life of a man, featuring a round table composed of Athletic Director Chris Vander Woude ('02), Associate Director of Marketing Niall O'Donnell ('03), Associate Director of Admissions Zac Inman ('08), and the previous speakers.

Following the discussion, the men headed into the gymnasium for a series of competitions including, the most push-ups, football throwing accuracy, sprints, and dodgeball.


Alumnus Ben McMahon talks about the essential role of prayer in one's life.


The push-up competition was intense.


Nate Collins sends the football toward the target during the football accuracy competition.


Larry Urgo flies across the gymnasium to win the sprinting competition.


The guys enjoyed a few pick-up games of basketball.



Shield of Roses
Last Saturday, Shield of Roses met for the third time this semester to protest Planned Parenthood in Washington, D.C. Thirty-two Christendom students left campus at 8 a.m., attended Mass in Arlington, Va., and continued on to Planned Parenthood to join a group of Dominicans and other pro-lifers in prayerful protest.


While students prayed a five-decade scriptural rosary, a handful of students offered literature and counseling to women going into the clinic. Shield of Roses has met with success this semester with over 30 students in attendance every week.



Apple Picking Time
Saturday, September 8, was the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, or in other words, the Virgin Mary’s birthday! In celebration of our mother Mary’s birthday, the women of Campion Hall went apple picking at a near by Orchard.

Once the ladies all returned to campus, they used the kitchen at St. Anne’s to bake homemade apple crisps. Before tasting the delicious creations, R.A. Sarah Halbur led the singing of “Happy Birthday” in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

“It was a wonderful way for all of the women to celebrate and honor the greatest woman in all of our lives,” said sophomore Rocina Daez.


The women of Campion are ready for a day of apple picking!


Baking time! After a day of apple picking, the Campion girls went to Saint Anne’s to bake.


The apple crisp is finished and the celebration in honor of our blessed mother begins!



Open Mic at Pub Night
AAnother night of good food, drinks, and music means… Pub Night at St. Kilians!

As the food came out and the drinks were being served, the night started off with card games and a rather calm atmosphere. Once we were all settled and welcomed, it was announced that the night was not only open mic, but karaoke as well! Thus began a few hours of standup comedy, diverse singing, and even electrical guitar playing.

“The great thing about Pub Night is that anyone can perform and not have to feel embarrassed, no matter what they might be doing,” said freshman Anne Fox.

The night progressed as many Christendom Pub Nights do—with great talent and many laughs.


Some of the Students Activity Council joins in on the karaoke fun.


Freshman Nick Jaroma plays the guitar with freshman Ryan Tappe for a song.


Freshman Anne Fox tries out the drink of the night: a “Cinderella" (lemon juice, orange juice, pineapple juice, Ginger ale, and dash of grenadine).


Freshman Suzy Curran and Madeleine Deighan share a duet together.



Canoeing the Shenandoah

On Sunday afternoon, September 9, a group of about 30 students went on the annual canoe trip, hosted by the Student Activities Council. After a picnic lunch, students were transported to a destination on the Shenandoah River to begin their adventure, and they then canoed and kayaked the seven miles back to the starting point.

“The entire trip was completely epic,” says Junior Connor Coyne. “Despite—or maybe because of—the canoe tipping, splash fights, and canoes filling up with water and sinking, we powered through and had an absolute blast.”


Students get their paddles and life jackets before embarking on the trip.


Canoeing down the majestic Shenandoah.


Juniors Conor Coyne and Ben Scrivener stop their trek for a pic.


The weather was perfect, and the beautiful scenery made the trip seem much too short.



Swing 'n' Sundaes Back in Action
On Sunday, the Swing Dance Club was tearin' up the dance floor once again with their Swing 'n' Sundaes. Over 100 students enjoyed getting to know new moves and honing their skills. And of course when the dancing was ended, the club served up plenty of ice cream with all the fixin's to choose from.



Junior Tim Johnston and Sophomore Gabby Muskett share a dance.


Sophomores Leif Pilegaard and Nancy Feuerborn swing dance together.


Sophomores Sandra Bobrowski and Andre Moreau swing across the floor.


Senior Eric Maschue gives his partner a spin.




The Liturgy and Spiritual Life at Christendom

When describing life at Christendom College, a common expression used is “the very air we breathe here is Catholic.” Christendom goes far beyond the inside of the chapel to provide growth in one’s liturgical life.

On campus, students have opportunities to grow in their faith at all times of the day and in many more ways than just one. On Tuesday nights in the Chapel Crypt, Fr. Planty offers a series of diverse spiritual conferences. A recent talk gave students an idea of how they can get more out of Mass. These talks not only show the importance of attending Mass as often as possible, but truly being involved in the worshipping of our Lord.

The daily celebration of the Mass is the center of College life and is offered every day of the week. On Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays the Mass is offered in Latin in the ordinary form and the extraordinary form is offered on Tuesday mornings. On Sundays a full choir and schola accompany the Mass and many parts of the liturgy are sung. The exposure to different ways of celebrating the Mass is appealing to many students.

“I was never really exposed to the traditional form of the Mass, but now that I have the opportunity to attend the Mass in Latin, I can appreciate how beautiful it truly is,” says Freshman Anne Fox.

The Liturgical life at Christendom truly embodies the idea of “breathing Catholic.” Whether a student is a lector at Mass, or devoted to attending each adoration offered—all of this can strengthen a person’s faith.

It's faithful and frequent liturgies are one of the many things that make up Christendom's unique way of life. It is a school fully devoted to the preservation of the Faith and the student’s exposure to the Truth. Aside from Mass, groups like the “Shield of Roses” and “Vocation Discernment” allow for a rich spiritual life on campus. The opportunities at Christendom College to strengthen one’s love and commitment to his or her faith are very prevalent. Ultimately, it is our individual choices if we seize these opportunities.

As Saint Augustine said, "Let us sing a new song not with our lips but with our lives."

Find out more about the College's rich spiritual life at christendom.edu/spiritual.

Interview with a Crusader
Joe Walsh, reporter for the Christendom Athletic Department caught up with freshman Jeremy Minick to ask him a few questions.

Where are you from?
Asheville, North Carolina

What year are you at Christendom?
I am proud to call myself a freshman.

What sports do play or plan on playing at Christendom?
I am on the soccer team and I am looking forward to playing basketball for the Crusaders in a month or so as well.

What’s the first sport you played?
Soccer, I started when I was 7, followed by basketball when I was 11.

Who’s your favorite basketball player, and who’s game to you think you resemble most?
My favorite player is Rajon Rondo, but I most resemble Chris Paul.

When did you first hear about Christendom?
Back when my older sister came here.

Did you ever think of going anywhere else?
Not really, a couple of colleges recruited me to play basketball but I wanted to come here.

What do you want to major in?
Philosophy or History

Who’s your favorite professor?
Definitely Mr. Wunsch. He makes my 8:30am class the liveliest of the week.

What has surprised you the most about Christendom?
Definitely how integrated past generations are with the current students, whether it be siblings or just lots of people knowing each other somehow.

What have you enjoyed the most at Christendom? “
The ability to have everything so close, such as our professors, chaplain and especially Christ in the chapel.

What’s your favorite color?
Fuschia, because it sounds awesome.

Q. What would you say to someone who would like to attend Christendom, but doesn't dance. It seems there is a lot of dancing in each week's Chronicler and I just don't like dancing. - Sincerely, Two Left Feet

A. Well, dancing is not required of our students, although many of them do enjoy it. At Christendom, we have many dances: formal dances, contra-dances, swing dances, barn dances, and themed dances. Most of the students who attend Christendom are not really that familiar with swing or contra dancing, and some are unhappy with today’s type of dancing that they see at their high schools or youth group dances, so they believe that dancing is something that they will not enjoy nor want to do.

Christendom dances are a bit different, generally, than your normal high school or college dance. There is a variety of music played, everything from old time swing dance music to today’s modern music, and dancing consists of swing dancing and so-called freestyle dancing. Regardless of the dance or event, we do have a policy in our student handbook governing the music that is played:

Christendom College prizes its mission to “Restore All Things in Christ,” a mission that seeks to form every aspect of one’s life to the standard of Christ. Christendom enjoys a unique opportunity to rebuild a sense of Christian culture. In taking a proper understanding of leisure and entertainment, the College presents a diverse spread of activities for the enjoyment of its student body and College community. These activities include dance, music, art, athletics, community meals, and others. The College seeks to build a culture of dance founded upon the Christian understanding of the relationship between men and women. Within the area of music, we recognize and affirm that there is an abundance of goodness in multiple forms, styles and genres. Christendom chooses to glean that which would best contribute to healthy and balanced entertainment for its students. The College avoids music that would directly depreciate a proper understanding of leisure and entertainment and/or contradicts the basic morality to which a Christian is called. In understanding the responsibility for the proper formation of its student body, great care is taken in choosing the styles, genres, and playlists of music that foster participation at College events.

For those students who do not know how to swing dance or contra-dance, there are clubs on campus that give students the opportunity to learn. The Swing Club holds Swing ‘n Sundaes on a variety of Sunday nights throughout the semester where students can work on their swing dance moves with other students or learn specific moves from the student-instructors. After a couple of these sessions, students normally get the swing of things pretty quickly (pun intended). The Contra-Dance Club meets on a variety of Saturday afternoons throughout the semester and they teach people how to do the various “contra dances.” These are very specific, called dances, which resemble, sometimes, dances one might see in a Jane Austen based movie. Even one with two left feet could handle these types of dances Two of the favorites contra dance dances are the Virginia Reel (here’s a video of some students dancing it) and the Laendler (from the Sound of Music – here’s a video of them dancing it ).

Anyways, dancing is a great form of exercise and is good for the soul, they say. If you are not into dancing right now, that’s OK. When you get here, give it a go, and see what happens.

Director of Admissions
tmcfadden@christendom.edu
800.877.5456 ext. 1290

If anyone has questions about applying, visiting, scholarships, financial aid, campus life, rules and regulations, majors, core curriculum, transfer credits, or even about the food here at Christendom, please do not hesitate to contact me at any time.

Fire and Water
On Friday night, the Student Activities Council sponsored a bonfire right by the beautiful Shenandoah River at St. Brendan’s Landing. SAC provided lots of snacks and drinks, including supplies to make marshmallows. Students brought their own instruments and just enjoyed a night out with their friends in a laid back setting.

“It is nice that the college provides new places for us to go and hang out on weekend nights,” said freshman Becca Francis. “It was a bit of a trek to get there, but the marshmallows made it all worth it.”

SAC will continue to hold bonfires at the dock this semester for all students.


Junior Hannah Ethridge warms up a marshmallow for a tasty smore.


Students danced the Virginia Reel.



Little Italy in Christendom
From its tasty dishes and jovial atmosphere to classic music and lively dancing, Christendom’s annual Italian Night this past Saturday proved to be a tremendous success. The evening is traditionally split into two events, the dinner and the dance. For the meal, students walked into the Commons to be greeted by strings of gorgeous lights, the strains of Frank Sinatra playing in the background, and of course, enough authentic Italian food to satisfy the biggest appetite. Some faculty also joined the throngs for dinner, and Fr. Planty commenced the evening with a blessing in Italian. Although all the food was mouthwatering, students returned again and again to the dessert table in particular to savor the amazing cannolis and gelato.

Once it became darker, the dinner was followed by the Italian-style dance in the piazza—outdoors around the fountain in front of the St. Lawrence Commons. The dance area held an elegant, dreamy ambiance thanks to the twinkling candles and roses that dotted the scene. Students packed the space and waltzed, free-styled, and danced swing for hours to a wide variety of music. Everyone was sorry when the final song played and another great Italian Night had come and gone.


Students filled the Commons to try the tasty Italian dishes.


Students loved the romantic, candle-lit atmosphere of the dance.


Sophomores Peter Stephens and Nancy Feuerborn swing to the lively music.


Seniors Maureen Bellow and Jake Akers enjoy a dance.


Sophomore Mark Turner and Freshman Lianne Francis swing the night away.


Students show off their swing dancing skills.



Open Doors at Open House

“Time to clean our rooms!” was the expression being used throughout all of the women housing right before Women’s Open House began. On Sunday, the residence halls of all female Christendom students, normally closed to inter-visitation, were open for anyone to come in and socialize.

Music collaborations could be heard throughout the halls. In other rooms board games turned into friendly competition and time spent eating and laughing all aided to a really fun day. Across the street at Anne’s, pumpkin muffins and apple pie were baking in the oven.

“It was a great way to just relax and enjoy each other’s company” said Freshman Maria Klosterman. "And the pumpkin muffins were delicious!"

Even Padre Planty stopped by to visit. Though a few of the newly cleaned rooms became dirty once again within a matter of minutes, the Women’s Open House was a successful one and a really enjoyable time.


Students get creative in decorating their rooms. Above students relaxing in a room that resembles the beautiful outdoors with vine covered walls and all!


Freshman Elena Carlson and Sarah Furth fill the halls with classical music from their flutes.


Junior Kim Day and Sophomore Evan Casey collaborate on guitar.



Debating Dog Food
“Every penny spent on dog food is stolen from the poor.” This was the topic chosen for Christendom’s Chester-Belloc Debate Society’s first debate of the semester. The discussion began at 7:00p.m. on Sunday, and continued well into the night. The evening started on a very calm note, with members of the society, students, and faculty all enjoying refreshments and small talk before the actual debate was called to order. At the sound of Chairman, Mr. Sean Connolly’s gavel, the introduction of the society members and rules of the debate were announced.

At the very heart of the Chester-Belloc Debate Society is the opportunity for any member of the student body to participate in each debate and this first meeting showed just that. A wide variety of individuals stood up and spoke on the given topic. Both strong male and female voices were represented and as the night progressed the points made on both the pro and con sides continued to strengthen.

Ultimately, after a night of speeches and questions, it was the “con" side that prevailed in the very first Christendom debate of the semester.



Chairman Sean Connolly and Secretary Peter Deucher search the room for the first speech of the night.


Sophomore Margaret Killackey makes her point.


The Debate Club's faculty moderator, theology professor Dr. Eric Jenislawski took part in the debate.



Seniors Dine with Faculty

On Monday night, the faculty and senior class gathered for the annual Senior Dinner in the St. Lawrence Commons. Chef Dennis served up an amazing feast of tender beef, potatoes, and more. It was an excellent opportunity for the senior to converse and relax with their mentors as they have many times during their last three years at Christendom.

Concluding the evening philosophy professor Mike Brown delivered a lecture on "Wonder & Fear in the Pursuit of Wisdom." Listen to his lecture at Christendom on iTunes U.


Each student sat with the members of faculty from his or her department.


Members of the history department enjoy a lively discussion.


Prof. Brown explained how St. Thomas Aquinas classifies the emotion of "wonder" under the emotion of "fear."

Christendom's Choir and Schola Gregoriana
Christendom College is profoundly unique in its celebration of the Divine Liturgy, for it cultivates deep appreciation for beautiful sacred music in the Liturgy. Students in the choir and Schola Gregoriana perform the beautiful sacred music that enriches the Mass in a special way through Gregorian chant and sacred vocals of Catholic masters.

“My brief experience with the choir during my summer program was one of the many things which solidified my desire to come to Christendom,” says Senior Rachel Kujawa. “I knew I had to come back, if only to hear such music again.”

The choir at Christendom, in fact, draws many students to the college, and those who participate in the choir often speak of it as one of the most rewarding experiences during their time at Christendom.

“Any weariness from the efforts necessary to learn and perform complicated motets and Masses completely vanishes in those moments at Mass when the choir is singing perfectly together and it seems like the choirs of heaven are joining in,” says Kujawa. “The sensation is otherworldly.”

The Schola Gregoriana is a men’s choral group that enriches the Sacred Liturgy with traditional Gregorian chant every day, and especially on Sundays, feast days, and special events. The choir is a mixed men’s and women’s choir that sings for Mass on Sundays and feast days, specializing in sacred polyphony by such Catholic masters as Palestrina, Victoria, and des Prez. Music Professor Dr. Kurt Poterack leads both the Schola Gregoriana and the choir, and teaches all classes on sacred music at Christendom.

“Not only has Dr. Poterack expanded my musical horizons, but I have met new friends and developed relationships that have endured throughout my years here at Christendom,” says Senior Matthew Camp. “Through the choir, I have had the opportunity to participate in the Mass in an entirely new way by enriching it for both others and myself through the addition of the glory of beautiful polyphony.”

Christendom College truly is set apart by its beautiful Liturgy, and the choir certainly enhances the beauty of the Mass in a way that responds to Pope Benedict's call for a renewal and restoration of the sacred Liturgy.

The Choir sings at last Sunday's Mass. Listen to the choir and download performances at Christendom on iTunes U.

Crusaders Run Out of Time against Adventist
The men’s soccer team played their season home opener yesterday against NCAA Division II and USCAA opponent Washington Adventist University. Under first year head Coach Jake Guttierrez, the team came into the game with a 1-1 record after demolishing Davis College in their season opener by a score of 11-0 which included goals by 7 different Crusaders.

This past Monday, the team suffered a tough loss to NCAA Division III Gallaudet University by a score of 0-1. Unfortunately for the Crusaders, five of their shots on goal hit the bars of the goal.

“It was just one of those nights," Coach Guttierrez said. "You outshoot your opponent and have five hit the post, nothing else you can really say.”

Playing for the first time on their home field at Skyline Park in Front Royal—and in front of the home fans—the men’s team was eager to have a good showing. Unfortunately, a slow start hampered the team as Adventist scored two quick goals within the first five minutes of play to jump out to an early lead. The teams battled back and forth with neither team gaining a foothold in regard to rhythm or play. Adventist struck again mid-way throughout the first half. The opportunities for the Crusaders were quite limited in the first half, other than a semi-break away by freshman forward Patrick Audino, which was saved by the goalie for Adventist.

The 2nd half saw the Crusaders settle down and begin playing with more confidence and energy as the game wore on. The defense of Charlie Rollino, Rob Hambleton, Peter Foeckler, and Tim Beer would solidify itself and gradually the team would put more pressure on Adventist. With about 25 minutes to play in the match, the Crusaders finally shot to get on the scoreboard with a “right spot, right time” goal by Audino.

Injected with some Irish energy, compliments of the Salmon brothers of Ireland (senior Tommy and freshman Sean), the Crusaders battled through adversity as nearly every close call went against the Christendom team. Despite the hardship, the team pressed on and scored another goal with just under 10 minutes to play in the game. With the momentum completely reversed and energy running low the Adventist team found themselves on the defensive from the Crusaders. Only a couple more scoring opportunities availed themselves for the Crusaders in the final minutes as Adventist did away with any offensive attempts. Unfortunately, when the final whistle sounded time had run out on the would-be comeback by the Crusaders.

The women’s soccer team also fell to Washington Adventist in their season opener by a score of 0-2, while the Crusader volleyball team won their season opener in 3 games playing at Penn State Mont Alto. The men are back in action on Saturday at Sherando Park where they host Bryn Athyn College for a 2 p.m. start. All three teams play again Monday. Check the Christendom Athletics page for the complete schedule.

Patrick Audino intercepts the ball.


Senior Nicholas Blank charges up field.


Eric Bugin prepares to send the ball up field.


Freshman Peter Ruhl defends Crusader territory.


The team huddles after a tough loss. The Crusaders' next victory is just over the horizon.





I wanted to take this opportunity to give everyone a little more information about the Admissions Office at Christendom College. We are generally the first office anyone deals with when they are interested at Christendom, and we do our very best to help you discern whether Christendom is the place for you.

We are a small office, with four full-time employees and two student employees.

As you know, I am the Director of Admissions and Marketing. I have been in this position since 2004 and am responsible for all aspects of recruitment, advertising, public relations, marketing, and admissions, and as of last year, I am also responsible for alumni relations. I attended Christendom back in the early days of the College from 1986-1990, earning my BA in Theology, and then I earned my MA in Theological Studies from our Graduate School in 1998. I have ten children (including two who are students at Christendom).

The Associate Director of Admissions is Zac Inman, who took on this position this past May. Zac is responsible for traveling around the country, visiting high schools, homeschool groups, parishes, and other groups of people who might be interested in hearing about Christendom. He represents us at various conferences, college fairs, and other events. He organizes all of our Family Visit Days/Open House Events, and works with high school guidance counselors and youth ministers to help students determine if Christendom is for them. Zac, originally from New York, graduated with a BA in Philosophy from Christendom in 2008.

Katie Gutschke, from New Jersey, is an Admissions Counselor who is now in her second year working for me. Although working full-time, she is also completing her degree in History and should graduate in this December. She is responsible for processing all of the many applications to our undergraduate program, and she is responsible for running our very successful summer programs for high school students.

Liz Twaddle is an Admissions Counselor who graduated with a BA in History in 2011. She is responsible for answering the phones, responding to emails, sending out informational packets, giving campus tours, and arranging campus visits for prospective high school students. Originally from California, Liz is excited to be in this position for a second year and looks forward to speaking with you in the future!

And beyond those who work day in and day out in my office, we have a number of other people who do a lot to make our efforts successful. Emi Funai (senior) and Leif Pilegaard (sophomore) are responsible for calling current high school seniors to answer any questions they might have about Christendom, and give them a student’s perspective on things. They work a couple of nights a week throughout the academic year as part of their on-campus employment. Additionally, all of our many Student Ambassadors (65) who have volunteered their time to help show visiting students what life at Christendom is like are indispensable and I am very grateful for their help.

That’s everyone in the Admissions Office, and we all look forward to speaking with you in the future!

Director of Admissions
tmcfadden@christendom.edu
800.877.5456 ext. 1290

If anyone has questions about applying, visiting, scholarships, financial aid, campus life, rules and regulations, majors, core curriculum, transfer credits, or even about the food here at Christendom, please do not hesitate to contact me at any time.