Formed for the Mission

For those of you who are new to Catholic Noles, FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students) missionaries are individuals who serve on college campuses, helping students grow in faith and form an authentic community rooted in Christ.

We are blessed to have four of them serving at FSU. They are on the front lines of our ministry, navigating countless situations and leaning on their formation to build relationships grounded in trust and faith.

Over the past month, our FOCUS missionaries spent time at Ave Maria University, reconnecting with the wider FOCUS family and welcoming new missionaries. FOCUS invests tremendous energy and resources into preparing their teams—through training, mentorship, and prayer—for the realities of campus life. I was honored to witness this formation in action and see firsthand how deeply intentional and Christ-centered it truly is.

What struck me most was the depth of each missionary’s love for Jesus and their desire to center their lives around their faith. Devout and sincere, they paused everything to attend Mass, pray the rosary, or spend quiet time in reflection. Many also went on silent retreats, seeking even deeper intimacy with Christ.

It was also a gift to spend personal time with our FSU team—Stephanie, Jordan, Maria, and PJ. When you're in the throes of ministry, it can be hard to truly get to know your teammates. I’m so thankful I had the chance to bond with these amazing individuals. Fun-loving, faithful, and full of joy—we are truly blessed to have them at Florida State!