Every new student who enters Fontbonne University is invited to catch the fire. The fire is what sets Fontbonne University apart from all others. The fire makes Fontbonne unique, gives Fontbonne purpose and meaning, and will inspire our students to be the very best version of themselves.
The fire is what we call our charism. A charism is a spiritual gifting, and our spiritual gifting is directly connected to the religious order that courageously founded this institution, The Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet (CSJs).
The spiritual gifting is marked by Fontbonne’s mission and values. We hope new students come to embrace the mission and values, and in turn, help the CSJs continue the work of God they began in the 1600s – to love the dear neighbor without distinction.
New students are formally welcomed into the Fontbonne community with Catch the Fire! The ceremony takes place on the first day of New Student Orientation in the Mabee Gymnasium. Family and friends are welcome to attend!
Every student graduating from Fontbonne University is invited to participate in the Sending Ceremony, an interfaith prayer service honoring our graduates. Now, students will be sent forth with the fire that was given to them when they first arrived during Catch the Fire!, a fire that has grown and changed and will now be sent into the world. The spiritual gifting is marked by Fontbonne’s mission and values.
Sending Ceremony takes place the day before Commencement. Family and friends are welcome to attend!