Sacred Scripture clearly states that Jesus’ mission included service to others. In the Gospel of St. Matthew, the people ask, “Lord, when did we see you hungry … when did we see you thirsty?” Jesus responds, “I assure you, as often as you did it for the least of my brothers, you did it for me.”

At St. John Paul II, we believe that the service component of our curriculum acts as an important vehicle for the spiritual growth of our students. It also offers opportunities to earn service hours for Bright Futures Scholarships and to improve our students’ college resumes.

During our school year, all of our faculty, staff, and students give their time to serve local organizations in need. In the past, the entire school has helped with projects at nursing homes, the Animal Shelter, Goodwood Plantation, Tallahassee Museum, Open Door Women’s Clinic, Kearney Center, local parishes, and other parts of the Tallahassee community.

Our students annually sponsor a Relay for Life Team, a Rice Bowl Offering during Lent, and food drives for Good News Ministries. Last year, students at St. John Paul II hosted a “For The Kids” Dance Marathon fundraiser in which they raised $15,583, more than any other school in Leon County for underprivileged children.

Christian Service Project

To enhance the St. John Paul II experience, students create and fulfill a Christian Service project in each of their four years. Students are required to perform a minimum of 100 volunteer hours before graduation. The program’s purpose is to enable students to see that service is part of our responsibility and calling as Christians.

This project is centered on particular themes such as service to a parish or an organization, our own school, or other areas of focus. After selecting a focus, a student must meet the program requirement based on their grade level. When completed, the project requires them to reflect on their experience. Students who have demonstrated outstanding service will be recognized at the end of the school year.