Where Faith and Culture Meet

December 27–January 4, 30 students and five chaperones took part in a Pilgrimage to Italy—a collaborative trip between the DSHA Latin Department and Campus Ministry. The purpose was for students to experience the connection between the traditional and historical roots of Rome and the Christian faith. Dasher Pilgrims visited historical sites in Florence, Assisi, Rome, and Vatican City. Anna Pienkos, DSHA ’25, reflects on how experiencing her own Catholic faith in a different culture, rich with beauty and history, allowed her to embrace her faith in new and formative ways.

Read Anna's full reflection here.

On February 9, students, faculty, and staff gathered for an all-school prayer service to honor Black History Month. The service was organized by the Sisters of Culture (SOC) co-curricular, whose mission is to celebrate the ethnic backgrounds and cultures of the DSHA community, along with discussing contemporary issues through the lens of social and racial justice. SOC worked in collaboration with the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion commission of Student Council. Rooted in prayer, the service included music performed by the SOC Gospel Choir and Grace Fellowship Church (GFC) of Milwaukee, a sermon by GFC Pastor Brenda Calhoun, and student reflections on faith and resilience. Caitlynn Bell, DSHA ’25, helped choreograph and lead two praise dances performed by SOC, and reflects on the importance and value of her experience.

Read Caitlynn's full reflection here.

This year, DSHA celebrated 29 Catholic Masses during the school day. On April 12, a group of DSHA students of other faith traditions organized an all-school Interfaith Prayer Service to share their different spiritual journeys and the ways they pray. The service took place at the beginning of the Easter season and was rooted in seasons of change and renewal. The goal was to emphasize the common values of the various traditions involved, and to come together in solidarity and goodwill to share a spiritual moment of unity. The following religious traditions were represented: non-denominational Christianity, Eastern Orthodox Judaism, Islam, Hindu, Hmong, and Native American Spirituality, the tradition of Nayeli Mercado, DSHA ’26, who reflects on the importance of the opportunity to share with the DSHA community.