Faith Life at School

Faith at Stella Maris is not an add-on; it is the heart of school life, shaping how students pray, study, play, and relate to one another. Our spiritual programs invite boys and their families into a living friendship with Christ through daily prayer, the sacraments, and the rhythm of the liturgical year.

Daily Prayer

Each morning, our Chaplain leads the entire school in prayer, beginning the day in God’s presence with a spirit of reflection and gratitude. This shared moment orients minds and hearts toward Christ and prepares students to live the day as a gift received from God.

Monthly Confessions

Once a month, every class has the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation at school. Families are also welcomed to designated confession times through our pastoral care, so parents and children can grow together in God’s mercy.

Morning Prayer Stella Maris CT

Family Retreats

During Advent and Lent, we invite families to special retreat days that offer time for prayer, silence, and reflection together. These retreats help parents and children prepare for the great feasts of the liturgical year and strengthen their spiritual life at home.

special retreat Stella Maris

Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius

Twice a year, we offer the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola for families and faculty. These retreats provide a powerful opportunity to discern God’s will, deepen one’s interior life, and grow in holiness through prayerful meditation on Scripture.

First Friday Adoration

On the first Friday of each month, all students gather in the chapel for Eucharistic Adoration. In silence before the Lord, they learn to listen, adore, and deepen a personal relationship with Jesus truly present in the Blessed Sacrament.

Liturgical Seasons Lived at School

The life of the Church shapes our school year, helping boys live the mysteries of Christ with their whole hearts:

  • Advent: Students build the Nativity scene and prepare their hearts for the coming of the Savior.

  • Lent: Fasting, prayer, and almsgiving foster conversion, discipline, and charity toward others.

  • May: We honor the Blessed Virgin Mary with flowers and Marian devotions, entrusting the school to her maternal care.

Blessed Virgin Mary Stella Maris
spiritual exercises Stella Maris Stamford CT

School Feast Days

Throughout the year, the school community joyfully celebrates feast days that mark our identity and mission:

  • All Saints’ Day: Honoring the saints as models of holiness and friendship with God.

  • St. John Paul II Day: Reflecting on his teachings about love, the family, and the dignity of the person.

  • St. Joseph Day: Turning to St. Joseph’s example of humble obedience and strong, quiet fatherhood.

  • Mater Salvatoris – Stella Maris Day: A festive celebration in honor of Our Lady, when students offer flowers and present the spiritual fruits of the year to the Mother of God.