Spiritual life at Christ the King Chapel
College can be a time of great transition. St. Ambrose Campus Ministry aims to serve students in their spiritual journeys and welcome them as they decide to make new commitments.
Christ the King Chapel
A place for spiritual and faith-based connections
The chapel has served as a place of spiritual nourishment and faith-based community for generations of St. Ambrose students.
About Christ the King Chapel
St. Ambrose University wouldn’t be the same without Christ the King Chapel. From its soaring stained glass windows to the locally crafted altar, ambo, and tabernacle, the Chapel reflects the faith of the many people who have passed through its doors.
Christ the King Chapel community connection
Unlike a parish, our chapel exists solely for our students and the needs of the university. Students are encouraged to explore chapel events, concerts, and interfaith dialogues, or just use the space for quiet reflection and personal prayer. We encourage all students and staff to join in and contribute to the chapel’s vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
Learn more about student retreatsMass
Liturgies help unite the St. Ambrose University community, remind us of our call to be Christ to one another, and to serve in this world. Everyone at SAU is welcome to join us for Sunday and weekday liturgies.
Beginning August 18th, 2025, Mass will be offered on the following schedule:
- Mondays at 12:15PM
- Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4:30PM
- Wednesdays at 9:15PM
- Sundays at 10:30AM
Ash Wednesday Mass will be celebrated in Christ the King Chapel on Wednesday, Feb. 18th at three different times:
- 12:15 PM
- 4:30 PM
- 9:15 PM
Prayer
From practices such as Eucharistic Adoration and Rosary, to ecumenical services such as Taize prayer and praise and worship music, Campus Ministry wants to provide students with a wide array of prayer opportunities. Prayer services are also offered during the year for specific events, such as prayers for peace.
During the semester, join us for Eucharistic Adoration on Thursdays at 8:30 p.m.
Confession
Individual confession is available every week on Wednesdays at 8:00 p.m. and Thursdays at 8:30 p.m., and by appointment with our chaplain.
Weddings
St. Ambrose students and alumni can hold their Catholic wedding ceremonies in Christ the King Chapel. We also offer couples the opportunity to prepare for the Sacrament of Marriage.
Faith-based activities
Discussing faith in community is integral to faith development and growth, and Campus Ministry strives to provide options for students. Whether you are well-versed with Catholic theology and history, are interested in learning more about the Catholic church, or want to explore your own personal faith background, Campus Ministry has options for all of our students.
Learn more about Christ the King Chapel
Do students have to attend mass?
No. All are welcome to attend masses and other events held at Christ the King Chapel, but it is not required.
How does someone become Catholic?
For students who are not Catholic but are interested in learning about the Catholic faith, we offer a year-round RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) program. Through discussion, learning, and prayer, students discover more about the Catholic Church and what it teaches and have an opportunity to enter fully into the Catholic faith at Easter.
Can students prepare for Confirmation in the Catholic Church?
Catholic students who have not celebrated Confirmation can participate in Campus Ministry's Confirmation program. Interested students meet and prepare during the season of Lent, after which they are confirmed at Easter in the chapel.
How can students get involved in the church?
Our Sunday and weekday masses are student-focused and student-led. There are a variety of liturgical ministries in which our students serve:
- Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
- Readers of the Word
- Altar Servers and Sacristans
- Ushers and Greeters
- Music Ministry
We provide training for all our liturgical ministers. You can volunteer by signing up on the interest cards at the beginning of the academic year or contacting us to learn how to get involved.
Are there other places students can practice their faith?
Yes. St. Ambrose has two interfaith prayer rooms available for daily prayer to students of the Islamic faith as well as students of other religions who prefer to pray somewhere other than Christ the King Chapel. The Grotto on campus is also a popular spot for reflection and outdoor Mass, when weather allows. SAU also places one or two Peer Campus Ministers (PCM) in each of our residence halls as representatives of the Campus Ministry team. These are just some of the ways faith is practiced across campus at St. Ambrose.
Explore the possibilities at St. Ambrose
At SAU, the Fighting Bees are encouraged to explore every opportunity to grow and learn, finally becoming the person they are meant to be.
