Social Concerns

Immersion Programs

Immersion Programs / Student Retreats
The Office for Social Concerns conducts immersion experiences for youth and young adults.

University of Notre Dame Urban Plunge Program
48-hour immersion experience in the inner city. Annually, the Office for Social Concerns coordinates the Columbus site. The event is co-sponsored by the Columbus chapter of the Notre Dame Alumni Club.

High School Inner-city Immersion Retreats
The Office for Social Concerns coordinates large-scale immersion retreats for Catholic high schools in the diocese. During the day-long retreat, students pray, learn about Catholic social teaching, and volunteer at several locations throughout the city. Over 10,000 students and faculty have participated in the retreats since 2005.

Faculty In-service Presentations and Retreats
The Office for Social Concerns provides faculty in-service presentations, training, and retreats.

Good Friday - Downtown Walking Stations of the Cross
The Office for Social Concerns and the diocesan Office of Youth & Young Adult Ministry co-sponsor the annual Downtown Walking Stations of the Cross on Good Friday at 8:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Cathedral, 212 E. Broad Street, Columbus.  Hundreds of youth from around the diocese participate.