Quotes from Past Participants of the Best Week Ever

“The Best Week Ever gave me many memories I hold extremely close to my heart! The Best Week Ever changed my life!”

–Chase P., New Hampshire

“It might sound cliche, but I honestly had the best week of my life at Christendom’s Best Week Ever program this summer! From the classes, to the dances, to just hanging out in the dorms, every experience of the week was a blast! One highlight of the program was attending Mass and Adoration daily. This showed me how authentically Catholic Christendom College truly is. The week was so impactful and gave me the opportunity to really see what Christendom is all about. I met so many incredible people ultimately striving toward the same goal of becoming saints. After attending the Best Week Ever program, I now understand the mission of the college to “Restore all Things in Christ.” This was the mission of everyone I encountered on campus. The counselors, professors, and other staff were genuinely on fire with love for their faith. This counter-cultural community is something that I find very valuable. I will never forget this amazing week and I can’t wait to apply this summer! Thank you for making this life-changing experience possible for me!”

–Leah P., Missouri

“That one week at Christendom was the most impactful of my whole entire life – I have never been surrounded by so many amazing people. It gave me fresh energy and new strength to make good decisions and to endeavor to live a better life. In the classroom, I felt that I learned more in a week than is sometimes taught in a school year. My whole perspective of life changed. Especially, because of Theology class and the conversations we had about the true meaning of love. To put it in a nutshell, it was…the best week ever. I missed it so much I actually applied to Christendom.”

–Polly K., New York

“Being at the Best Week Ever (BWE) helped me open my heart to new relationships and experiences that I probably wouldn’t have otherwise. I learned more about myself and how I still need to grow, and therefore realized Christendom is the place for me. The classes we took- Literature, Theology, Philosophy, and History- and their professors were all engaging and had the same end in mind: Christ and sainthood. We prayed before and after every class. BWE was during the same time as the graduate summer program, so there were religious sisters, brothers, and priests all around campus. We mostly saw them at mealtimes, which I really enjoyed. I talked to a couple sisters from Australia! It was also incredible to be around kids my age who were just as Catholic as I was. We all knew the Latin responses in Mass and the Salve Regina, which we chanted after most activities, as is Christendom’s custom. To be around kids like me, where nobody was the odd one out- that was significant to me. Some of my favorite parts were the times when we all sang together. We sang rounds at the dance at Dr. Cuddeback’s, had an Irish singalong at Dr. O’Donnell’s, and practiced singing for Mass every day up to Friday, when we sang four pieces in harmony for Mass. The guys were encouraged to be gentlemen, and girls encouraged to be ladies, especially at the dances. I didn’t think I would like the dances, but I’m glad I gave them a try, because they were fun. In all, BWE made me feel like I belonged at Christendom, and made me want to come back.”

–Olivia A., Georgia

“The week truly was the best week ever. I was able to grow deeply in my relationship with Christ, had so much good holy fun, made so many friendships and was absolutely captivated by the classes. I truly feel that the week helped reinvigorate my love for the faith, and now seriously has Christendom college as my top and possibly only college option.”

–Thomas T., Virginia

“The week not only lived up to its name but boldly surpassed it! Never have I been surrounded with so many Catholic peers who also seek to go onwards and upwards in our Faith, or friends who foster goals so similar to mine. Together, we created a community that was hard to leave on Saturday. The Catholic witness and example of the professors and counselors, as well as the daily Rosary, Mass, and Adoration, is what made it the “Best Week Ever” for me. I loved all the classes, especially the Philosophy class, and I loved the dances, not only because they were fun in a wholesome way, but also because the environment was virtuous. But though every activity of the week truly was epic, what made it the “Best Week Ever” was that every day was built upon our Faith. My peers and I were strengthened in our Faith and given a taste of what a real Catholic community is like. I grew so much during a week, to the extent that all I learned and experienced spilled over into my daily life, changing it for the better.”

–Sienna L., Ohio

“My time at the BWE provided a constant flow of joy and amazement to my heart. There was joy, of course, in the thought-provoking classes, the wonderful food, the fun activities, and the all-enveloping context of prayer, sacraments, and the Christian life. But I add “amazement” especially in reference to the community (though the entire experience, from the awe-inspiring chapel to the rollicking barn dance, could verily fall under the category of “amazing”). From the time I converted to Catholicism until now, I have longed for deep Catholic community with fellow peers who are striving for the same goal of holiness as I am—community which I had never really encountered prior to my time at Christendom’s BWE. As I was reflecting over my experience on my flight home, I came to see how much that one short week had shaped—and will continue to shape—not only my life but also my experience of the Catholic faith. I think one could truly say that the week lived up to its name.”

–Jude H., Texas

“As someone who has been attending the same school and extracurriculars for many years, I have not frequently been asked to make new friends my age. And as a rather introverted individual, I often wonder how non-existent my proclivity for making friends and socializing is. Even still, this week I spent at Christendom has borne the beginning of what I expect to be fruitful and lasting friendships. Secondly, I actually enjoyed myself. I don’t think I have ever sweat so much in my life as I did at BWE, nor had such a busy schedule. And yet, there was always joy. I learned so much about Christendom that I was not previously aware of as well. This has helped me discern Christendom as a college I will or won’t attend, and ultimately, helped Christendom ascend in my good opinion as one of my top three choices for my future education. But perhaps the week’s most important effect is the one it left on my soul. I have always felt a calling towards daily mass and adoration, but being forced to do these things for a week fanned the spark of zeal into a burning flame. I passed my driving test to receive my license only days after returning from BWE, and plan on making daily mass (and adoration if possible) a more regular part of my routine in the summer as well as during the school year. It is truly such a gift to be able to attend a place that is so unapologetically Catholic. At Christendom, my faith is not something that sets me apart, but the complete opposite. It is the unifying principle of all its attendees. You spend your week among people knowing the faith lives in each one of their hearts. And the flame of faith in my own heart isn’t something I feel must be protected, rather, it shines even brighter in the presence of other burning flames. Catholicism is an obvious truth at the Christendom campus. To be able to experience that and learn about that was truly a gift.”

–Erin T., California

“It truly was one of the best weeks of my life. I met so many teenagers of like mind who share a passion for the faith, and I believe I will be connected with them for years to come. I cannot wait to attend Christendom College next year, grow in my faith, learn more about myself and others, and hopefully play for the rugby team!”

–Finnian W., Virginia

“I truly had an amazing time at the Best Week Ever, whether dancing, learning, praying, or laughing. I never imagined I could have gained so many incredible memories or so many irreplaceable friendships. And this was all possible because of your generosity. I wholeheartedly agree that Christendom College is changing the world for the better one week at a time, and I know I will never forget this experience.”

–Clara F., California

“I loved my week at Christendom because of the counselors and all the friends I made throughout the week. Christendom made me grow closer to Christ and I enjoyed everything from the dances, the debate, the hike, and the joyful attitude of everyone at Christendom College. My week at Christendom was “The Best Week Ever.”’

–Isabel H., Virginia

“The week was an incredible experience for me — I loved the wholly Catholic environment, which included daily Mass, adoration, and confession. It was so amazing and awe-inspiring to meet so many of my peers who have the same views and values as I do! I made close friends much quicker than I would have in my regular life, which testifies to the special way the counselors and Mr. Phillips pushed us to go out of our comfort zones and give our all into the week. The classes were fascinating and interactive — the professors were very engaging and seemed like they were also having fun teaching us. It was definitely the Best Week Ever for me and I am praying that I will be able to attend Christendom in the future!”

–Gianna C., North Carolina

“Before coming to the program, I was positive I would not apply to Christendom because I believed the size of the school and the amount of opportunities would both limit and bore me. However, I was quickly proven wrong as I heard that people entering nursing programs, going on to law schools, and even studying in Rome were all paths I could take with the foundation of Christendom steadying me. My time at the summer camp also relieved a great deal of anxiety I had about choosing the right major as people readily assured me your major does not have to dictate the rest of your life and that college can be a time for learning truth instead of a means to an end. Thank you so much for giving me the ability to explore college opportunities under Mary’s veil on the beautiful campus of Christendom College, and it is an experience I will cherish forever.”

–Chiara D. Maryland

“It was a lot of fun, and I enjoyed getting to meet and spend time with so many young people my age who also share in the Catholic faith. I loved how the Catholic faith was made a significant part of the week, such as the morning prayer at the start of every day or the singing of the Salve Regina after every dance, and I especially liked the half hour of adoration that was provided every day. This week has shown me how I can more fully live out the faith in my everyday life and that Christendom would be an excellent place to do so. The classes I attended during the week were great, and they gave me a better understanding of what it would be like to go to college at Christendom, as well as giving me a chance to meet some of the professors who teach there. I also enjoyed participating in the many activities that were held during the week, particularly the dances. In addition to all this, I was greatly impressed with the Christendom students who were our counselors for the week. They were truly amazing in how they managed all of us, kept things running smoothly, and were always ready to provide help to anyone that needed them. Most of all, they showed me what fine men and women Christendom College is shaping out of their students, and this more than anything else has convinced me that Christendom is a college that is truly worth spending four years of my life at. Regardless of where I end up going, I doubt I will ever forget the fantastic time I had at Christendom’s Best Week Ever.”

–Walter C., Virginia

“I absolutely loved the week I spent there. When I first heard about Christendom almost three years ago, I knew that I wanted to attend the college. I went into this week with only one critique. I was so hung up on how odd the name was. I thought that “Best Week Ever” sounded like something from an advertisement. After the first two days, I realized that there simply was no other way to describe the experience. I will definitely be coming back, so thank you for giving me this wonderful opportunity!”

–Lillian W., Florida

“The week was incredible! The counselors are great role models, and they clearly care about every single one of the campers. My fellow participants were amazing; I’ve never met such fun, outgoing people who were devoted to practicing their Catholic faith. Everyone I talked to went out of their way to be friendly, and I met so many wonderful people. Every day, we attended daily Mass and adoration, and it was inspiring to see the professors attend daily Mass as well. I did not expect to enjoy the classes, but the classes were very interesting, and the teachers were very enthusiastic about their subject. I highly recommend this camp; it greatly exceeded my expectations.”

–Nora S., North Carolina

“The week truly was one of the Best Weeks of my life. I Ioved being able to meet authentically Catholic young people and share so many adventures with them. Best Week Ever showed me that Christ is truly the center of everything at Christendom. From Morning prayer to classes to mass to dances I was able to see Jesus as the core of every action. I saw that the people at Christendom are filled with a joy that is contagious to everyone and that they are unafraid to stand up for the true, the good and the beautiful. The memories, friends and experiences I had at Best Week Ever will forever be a part of who I am. I am so grateful for the opportunity to go!”

–Hadassah C., Colorado

“I have never experienced more in a week. The fullness of Faith I witnessed there was extraordinary. God was everywhere; even in the classroom. The professors were fantastically knowledgeable and engaging. I felt like I learned more in just that week than I had the whole previous year. The same goes for the Faith. I spent more time with God than I had in the previous month. I will always cherish the friendships I made there.”

–David E. Georgia

“The counselors were wonderful models of this type of behavior and of how you can be authentically Catholic and still have tons of fun. I really hope that when I’m in college I can be just as joyful as they are. What made leaving Christendom so hard was leaving the friends I made, friendships that despite only having existed for a week, seemed to me to be stronger than some friendships I’ve had for years at home. I really hope to be able to continue some of these friendships and be able to keep with me what I learned during this week about my relationship with God and with others.”

–Natalie I., North Carolina

“‘To give and not to count the cost…’ This line from the Prayer for Generosity by St. Ignatius of Loyola captures the beauty of a life poured out for others, and your generosity made that prayer real in my life. Because of your gift, I was able to spend a week immersed in joy, wonder, and the transcendentals. I lived and prayed on a beautiful campus and adored in an ethereal chapel. I was surrounded by like-minded students from diverse backgrounds, all united by a common yearning for the Lord. And I was able to pursue truth, inside and outside the classroom, with staff who cared deeply not just about what they were teaching, but who they were teaching. This experience has changed me. Christendom didn’t simply label itself Catholic, it was rooted in it. What we did that week wasn’t Catholic in name only; it was deeply Catholic in spirit because the students themselves are deeply Catholic, the students lived it, breathed it, and invited everyone into it. It’s powerful to have a literature professor open class by exploring the meaning of life through the lens of a character’s internal conflict… to see that question deepened in philosophy… to wrestle with the unknown in theology, and never feel ashamed of uncertainty, because, as Socrates reminds us, the wise man knows how much he has yet to learn. Christendom let me experience that humility not as failure, but as formation. Before this week, Christendom wasn’t anywhere near the top of my college list. Now, it’s in my top three, and I wouldn’t have known its beauty without your help. Your generosity has shaped my heart.”

–Gwenevere N., New Jersey

“My experience this summer at Christendom was amazing! I loved getting a taste of what life at the college is like while meeting so many faithful Catholic high schoolers from around the country. I definitely have not experienced a Catholic culture like the one at Christendom at any other high school camp I’ve been to. I really appreciated how all the counselors and staff truly cared about who you were and bothered to learn everybody’s names. Not only was the community wonderful, but the activities and classes were too! There wasn’t an activity that I didn’t enjoy from going hiking in the Shenandoah National Park to participating in all of the dances. One of the many highlights of the week for me was singing in the choir at daily Mass on Friday. It inspired me to consider joining the choir at my parish.”

–Bella H., Arizona

“It is truly an unforgettable week, and I thoroughly enjoyed every single moment. The week was so full in many beautiful ways: full of joy, fellowship, dancing, prayer, beauty, goodness, and truth. As I reflect on the week, it is so hard to describe everything! We started our day with classes: Literature, Theology, Philosophy, and History. The classes inspired and challenged us as high schoolers to rise to Christendom’s standard of rich and rigorous classes. I particularly enjoyed Dr. Stanford’s literature class, in which we read four short stories. He described the characters, themes, and details with such obvious love for life and literature. After classes we had Mass. The spiritual disciplines – Morning Prayer, Mass, Adoration, and Rosary – were such a gift. Our schedule was delightful, but full, so having adoration every day was the perfect opportunity to be still and offer every moment back to Him. The counselors were awesome, and a beautiful witness of the true joy and confidence that comes from a relationship with Christ. Every afternoon and evening was different, surprising, and wonderful. My two favorite activities were swimming in the Shenandoah River and the Wednesday night sing-along and dance. They were honestly just such fun, as was the whole week (I have never danced more in my life!). Finally, my fellow participants were really great. I loved getting to know 65 other Catholic highschoolers from around the country, and I’m so grateful for the friendships I made. Also, the relationship between the guys and girls was very inspiring and definitely raised my standards!”

–Ruth R., Pennsylvania

“If I’m being honest, I really knew nothing about Christendom College prior to the Best Week Ever. All I knew was that my school chaplain Father Jonathan Fioramonti was an alum, and that the school had an impressive chapel. On paper, it didn’t seem like my type of school. It seemed too small, and didn’t look like it offered what I wanted. Regardless, at the urging of “Fr Fioramonti, I registered for a visit. Once on campus, I was introduced to Mr. McFadden, and he, my mother, and I had a conversation. It was during this conversation that I felt hooked to Christendom College as a community and institution. I was then generously given the opportunity by Mr. Phillips to spend a whole week at Christendom for what they called “The Best Week Ever”. To be frank I found that name quite ambitious. Nevertheless, I gave in to the spirit of wonder, and said yes to Mr. Phillips’ invitation. I didn’t know what to expect originally, but the atmosphere the second I walked on campus was the most welcoming I’ve experienced. I didn’t expect to see so many smiling faces in a place before. Immediately, I felt at home. The fraternity and communal respect and friendship we all fostered throughout the week, even being from such different backgrounds was completely unmatched. I was sad to have had to leave, but if I had the opportunity to do it all again, I would, without hesitation. It was a great chance to grow spiritually, mentally, and in my Catholic identity. Without a doubt, this was absolutely The Best Week Ever.”

–Rodrigo J., Virginia

“The week was one I will never forget as it surpassed my high expectations and gave me a new appreciation not just of Christendom College, but the Catholic Faith itself. I could go on endlessly about those six days, but to summarize, it was really and truly the best week ever!”

–Evangeline C., Virginia

“The week was certainly the Best Week Ever! In just a week, I felt formed for the better intellectually, socially, and even spiritually. The week has not only cemented my love for the thoroughly Catholic culture at Christendom, but inspired me to do all that I can to spread that culture everywhere. In this one week I have grown so much as a person and a Catholic. I will forever be indebted to it.”

–Laura H., Texas

“The week was quite truly the BEST WEEK EVER! It is no misnomer. I was able to see the culture of Christendom and gained so much from the experience. I had a blast at all the activities that we had through the week, and I really experienced what Catholic culture is like in the day-to-day. The classes were phenomenal and very fulfilling. I saw that Christendom really wants to “Restore all things in Christ,” and help people get to Heaven. I had a great experience seeing what the college is like, and I feel like I also grew significantly as a person and as a Son of God. The emphasis on becoming a Saint, fueled by the daily Sacraments and encouraged by the Catholic community during the week, was so encouraging to a young person like myself who is trying to follow Christ, the Light, in the abysmal darkness in this world. The week reminded me that it is truly possible to ‘be great’ and to ‘restore all things in Christ’ in the real world. The week was, honestly, life-changing! I even had one of the best Confessions I’ve ever had in my life while I was there! I’m sure I will never forget the Best Week Ever and will always carry in my heart what I learned there.”

–Agustin M., Texas

“It was an incredible and formative experience. BWE aided my growth in virtue by providing time for contemplation and prayer-–both privately and in community. It challenged me to get outside myself and develop new friendships. The professors were amazing. Every lecture was fun while also inspiring me to contemplate the purpose of life and our eternal end. The time spent on the beautiful campus and away from my electronics made me want to chuck my phone in the Shenandoah River! Being surrounded by the beauty of the campus, chapel, the Shenandoah Valley, and the people was a breath of fresh air. It was a truly inspiring week and an experience I’ll never forget!”

–Clare K., Texas

“It was truly an incredible experience. Being surrounded by like-minded people, all of whom are on fire for their faith, was powerful in a way I cannot describe. Interacting with the other participants and counselors involved constant, unconscious reinforcement or the values I want to live in my daily life. Even in that short week, the community at Best Week Ever helped me to noticeably grow in selflessness and sacrifice, and that is something I am incredibly grateful for. I formed relationships that have helped me grow in virtue and, God-willing, will continue to do so. On top of that, the week itself was more fun than I could have imagined! I tried things I never imagined doing and ended up loving everything from the debate to swing dancing to the classes! BWE pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way possible, and I don’t think the fun I had or the relationships I formed would have been possible without that. I had high expectations coming in; BWE blew them out of the water to truly become the “Best Week Ever”! BWE was also important for my discernment. I have been discerning the priesthood for a while now, and I was considering entering seminary instead of college. Spending time at Christendom helped me realize how the human formation possible at college would impact me as a person and, by extension, my later ministry. By God’s grace, I was able to see more clearly that going to Christendom wasn’t a postponement of my vocation but a step toward becoming the man God wants me to be. This feeling was confirmed by my experiences after returning home. In a way I honestly cannot explain, my prayer and daily life since BWE have felt more focused and more deliberate. If this were the only effect of BWE on my life, it would absolutely be worth it.

–John K., Pennsylvania

“I was able to attend BWE, which, to my surprise, was actually the best week ever. I was overwhelmed by the kindness and selflessness of all the counselors and staff at Christendom. I am sure that the friendships I made with the girls in my dorm will last a lifetime. During my week at Christendom, it became evident to me that if these are the types of people I would be surrounded by going to school there that that is exactly where I need to be. I mentioned that this week was the best week ever. It was good because I made friends and got to do fun activities like dancing, swimming, and singing. It was great because I got to spend a lot of time in prayer both in Mass and Adoration. However, what made it the best week ever was because it allowed me to successfully discern my next step on the path to holiness and ultimately sainthood. After spending a week at Christendom surrounded by other people passionate about their faith and beaming with the Light of Christ all worries about where I should go to college faded away. In particular I was grateful that the informative Intro to Christendom classes were immediately followed by Adoration. These classes answered a lot of my questions regarding if Christendom was the right fit for me and gave me a lot to think about as to what I imagine my future to be. The week was everything I had hoped for and more. The classes were thought-provoking, the professors were passionate, the activities, especially the dances, were amazing. The opportunities for spiritual growth were plentiful and beautiful. I think my favorite part, however, was the community. Being surrounded by so many like-minded peers and counselors all set on growing in virtue was eye-opening and inspiring.”

–Abraham M., Illinois

“Thank you so much for providing me with the ability to attend the best week ever. I write that name with no capital letters because I can truly say that this week was the best week ever, without the trademarked title. The community of people Christendom has fostered and formed, and the people it attracted to the program, all blew me away. For the longest time, I believed that college, even Catholic college, was a place where people grew to be depersonalized. I thought that the large student population and rigorous coursework demanded a man to become less of himself, to lose grasp of who he truly was in pursuit of efficiency, of becoming another cog in the machine. After experiencing life at Christendom for just one week, I feel more myself than I ever have in my entire life. Everything at Christendom, from the daily mass and adoration leading us to greater relationship with our Lord, to the philosophy courses (which were most definitely not boring, despite all my pre-conceived notions about the subject) designed to teach us about ourselves, to just chatting with the male counselors about how much of a difference asking a lady to dance can make in someone’s life, all of it was a type of greatness beyond words, and I wouldn’t trade back a minute of it for a million dollars. What I love most is that I’m not exaggerating at all in everything I say about the week. It truly was the best kind of life-changing week I ever could’ve asked for.”

–Peter B., Maryland

“Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined how life-changing it would be. The growth in my faith has been exponential since I have left the program, and all of the Masses, adorations, and rosaries we prayed while there have inspired me to continue to attend daily Mass and pray more often.”

–Ryan M., Virginia

“The BWE was truly a life changing week for me. Being surrounded by so many like-minded individuals my age truly helped me become a better person especially in terms of my faith. The activities allowed us to bond with one another very quickly in a way you wouldn’t be able to anywhere else. This was truly one of the greatest weeks of my life so thank you.”

–Sam P., New Hampshire

“Going into the week, I knew I was going to have a great time, but I’ll admit I didn’t really believe it would be the BEST week ever. However, the friendships I made and the activities we did made it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I only wish I could live it again! Everyone was so authentically, joyfully Catholic. I’ve never felt so alive. Christendom wasn’t really an option for me before coming to the camp, but now I will definitely be considering it for college. If the culture at Christendom is anything like the culture at BWE, then it must be incredible. Thank you again for your generosity!”

–Clare L., Colorado

“The week was an absolutely amazing experience. It was so beautiful to meet so many awesome teenagers and counselors and participate in such fun, wholesome activities. I loved the time spent in the Chapel and all the opportunities we had to grow closer to Christ. The classes also helped bring me closer to God. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn from a Catholic perspective – a genuine Catholic perspective that observes the rich beauty of our theology. I came out of this week with so many friends and – more importantly – a deeper connection to God and our faith. Since attending, I’ve begun to go to daily Mass more frequently and I’ve focused on doing what’s going to ultimately get me and others to Heaven. It’s honestly been a life changing experience, and I think it was truly the best week ever.”

–Marie K., Pennsylvania

“I had an amazing time! All the people there made the whole experience so much fun. The activities were great, the dancing most of all. Before BWE, I actually strongly disliked dancing, but now I love it, swing dancing especially. I wasn’t looking forward to choir, but then, after I experienced it, I found myself getting excited for each practice. We sounded pretty good. :) The counselors were fantastic. They were always there to offer support, advice, and encouragement as needed. They helped show me what true Catholic men and women should be like and they gave me the confidence to be myself during the week. If I take nothing else out of this week, I will always have the memories it has given me.”

–Evelyn T., North Carolina

“I first went into the week thinking this was just going to be a fun week, without even really considering Christendom College as a choice of college for me. The opportunity not only changed my mind, but also changed my life. I had the greatest week of my life, which goes to show the title of this program to be no-joke. One of the greatest things I came out of The Best Week Ever with was more knowledge on Christendom College. If I had never gone to The Best Week Ever, I would have never known how amazing of a college Christendom is. A huge part of my life is my faith and love for God. A huge part of Christendom College’s life is faith and love for God. Even with just a week at Christendom College, I have grown much closer to God. Having the opportunity to attend Mass daily, confession daily, and adore The Most Blessed Sacrament each day allowed a beautiful peace to enter my heart and helped me grow closer to Christ. When I went to confession on Monday in The Best Week Ever, I felt, for the first time, I was actually participating in Reconciliation with Jesus rather than the priest. It was an incredible feeling. Learning that Christendom College prioritizes the Faith greatly with all the staff being Catholic, and all the subjects being taught from a Catholic view-point, daily Masses in the beautiful Christ the King Chapel, and the daily opportunities to go to confession, I can notice how much closer I can grow to God if I attend there, which is our ultimate goal as Catholics. There was a moment in Adoration one of the days that I truly felt God calling me to attend Christendom College. I have never felt so called to something before. I feel that this college is the best option for me where I will be able to get a great education, make lasting relationships, make many more core memories, and, most importantly, grow much closer to God. I was able to receive this amazing calling to this college primarily because you gave me an opportunity to have the best week ever at The Best Week Ever. It was honestly one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had. The Catholic culture that surrounds Christendom is something that I didn’t even know I needed until I experienced it, and it truly changed me. I have never been surrounded by so many other kids who have such a strong faith and actually live their lives as a Catholic should, and it definitely changed me. I currently go to a Catholic high school, but the culture of the students is not the most Catholic place, so being at Christendom, just for this one week, gave me lots of hope for the future of the church and my own future as I learn to grow in my faith. This week really sparked something in my heart and gave me a push to never give up in a time when I honestly didn’t even realize how much I was struggling. The experience I got at Christendom is something that I will never forget.”

–Annalise T., Louisiana

“The combination of being surrounded by good people, and fun activities while simultaneously being immersed in the sacraments every day made it an unforgettable experience. One of the things that stood out to me during this week was how close the community of Christendom is. With the counselors as examples, the participants were able to imitate how Catholic men and women should act towards one another. Because of this environment, everyone soon became close friends and genuinely enjoyed interacting with each other. It was a beautiful experience to have, and I will never forget it.”

–Avery L., Connecticut

“I can truthfully say this was the best week ever because of the huge impact it had on me and my life. I didn’t really want to go to the program, but I went because I thought it may be a way to experience college life. Even though I didn’t want to go, the second I arrived I knew I made the right choice. When I began unpacking my clothes and settling in, and I could tell the atmosphere at the program was amazing. My roommate Charlie walked into my room, and the first thing he did was yell very loudly, “Looks like we’re going to be rooming!” That small remark really set the tone for the rest of the week for me. No matter what we were doing, or where we were, there was always great happiness and excitement among the people there. I also grew in the spiritual sense from many activities offered at the program, mainly the Adoration and confession each day. It was a blessing to have a chunk of time that allowed us to sit with the Lord, and also to go to confession. I also want to thank the program counselors because they made the program awesome. They were always there for the students. No matter how small or large the favor, they were always very helpful. They are great role models.”

–Roger S., New Hampshire

“I have never experienced such a community as I did on the program and it has truly changed me. Peers who were smarter than me, funnier than me, and honestly just better people, were all but hesitant to love and encourage me in all ways and it was truly life changing (in a non-cliche way). And that is not even to mention the classes which I genuinely enjoyed and found as a great balance to all the rest of the week. I do think it was the “Best Week Ever” but I hope this week will drive me in a much greater towards that “Best Eternity Ever” which calls us all.”

–Paul P., Virginia

“My son attended the 4th session of The Best Week Ever. We were pleasantly surprised by the affordability of this summer program for all the benefits it offered with room and board and we didn’t know what else at the time. Since he has come home, I can’t even explain what a life-changing experience this has been for him. He is on fire with his faith. He has already made a trip to Virginia to visit some of his new friends. He wants to attend Christendom and experience this in the next phase of his life. I have talked to him about not wanting to go somewhere with this excitement, but to share it here in his current high school. It has opened his eyes to the opportunities that his Catholic school has offered that he might have overlooked before. He is in contact with group leaders at school and is planning to be an active part and take some leadership roles in these groups. The groups are not what I would describe as thriving. I hope that Kyle can keep up his mission to make them more successful. What a great example of a Catholic community Christendom showed our son, and through his experience, also showed our family. Thank you for that hope and inspiration to make things better where we are and to try to achieve the devotion that Kyle saw and describes to others. Your gifts are multiplying and we are forever grateful.”

–Mr. and Mrs. B., Parents of a Session 4 participant, Kentucky

“The Christendom College summer program was truly the “Best Week Ever!” Being from California, Christendom was at the bottom of my college list and I had very low expectations for the summer program. (I thought the name “Best Week Ever” was quite bold.) But when I came, I was truly blown away and awestruck at everything I experienced. The amount I learned about myself on the spiritual level, and about Christian charity on the practical level was priceless. I loved the beauty of the campus and how enjoyable it was to walk from building to building. I loved how the professors were truly brilliant and very passionate in their respective fields: they were very enthusiastic in sharing their knowledge with us through the exquisite classes. All the activities that were offered were awesome and it was great to bond with all of the other students. I loved the friendships that I made in the long week, and all the memories that were made with my newfound friends. I was likewise astonished at how personable the college staff were with me and my fellow students. I did not feel like “another random kid,” but rather, the faculty tried to make a personable connection with us that made the experience all the better. I have not had such interactions with other colleges up until this point – another way that Christendom goes above and beyond in exceeding other colleges. But above all was the beautiful Catholic atmosphere that is well-established at Christendom. I definitely grew closer to Christ, and will further grow closer to Him if I go to Christendom, through all of the spiritual activities (Daily Mass, Adoration, and Confession) provided at the campus in the absolutely stunning Chapel. Overall, I absolutely loved the Best Week Ever.”

–Luke B., California

“During this week I was challenged, taught, but most importantly inspired. I have never been surrounded by so many teenagers as eager and curious about the Faith as I am. It was a week that brought me much growth and I will forever be grateful to have gone. The counselors showed us how to not feel ashamed or embarrassed to be Catholic, but instead to be proud. The friendships and connections I formed are ones that are centered around God’s love and are examples of just that. It was truly a rewarding experience and will have an everlasting impact on my life.”

–Chloe R., New York

“I think this summer program is a really awesome week to not only experience Christendom but to also grow as a person. I can say personally the program not only helped me get ready for college but also formed me as a person. I think the best way for me to sum up the week was what some of us guys were telling each other as we said goodbye, “Be a Saint!”

–Luke R., Georgia

“For me, it was the “Best Week Ever!”  I enjoyed every moment but was really sad when Saturday morning came.  If I could’ve, I would have stayed for the rest of the summer!  I’ve been asked what my favorite part was, but I honestly can’t choose one thing.  The Counselors were outstanding!  I had a great time talking with them about different things and really admire our Head Counselor for being such a good leader.  It was fun to learn new things in class and hear the professors’ jokes and insight on whatever subject we were learning.  I had a great time learning how to dance!  The contra-style dance was my favorite.  I was expecting that the debate would be boring, but it was one of the most exciting things we did all week!  Everyone who gave speeches did an excellent job.  I felt so blessed to be able to attend daily Mass and Adoration.  Perhaps my favorite thing we did all week was sing the Salve Regina after each dance.  It was amazing to see that everything we did revolved around Christ and our love of Him.  All the things we did showed me that Christendom offers so much more than just great classes: it offers students a chance to be great Roman Catholics who can defend Christ and enjoy every moment of life that He gives.”

–Danielle P., California

“The entire week was action-packed with so many fun activities that I really took joy in, and I am so glad and grateful that I was given the great opportunity to attend! Higher education in our country has really deteriorated over the past couple of decades, to the point where at most colleges and universities students graduate more misinformed and spiritually lost than when they first joined. I quickly found that that was not the case at Christendom. Even over just a short week, I encountered 59 other students and 10 counselors who were so deep in their faith that it truly inspired me to go even further in my love for Jesus. Not one person was just “going through the motions” at Mass or constantly checking the time to see when our time in Adoration would end. The faith is truly alive and well in all those that attend the Best Week Ever, and that was, above all, my strongest takeaway from the week. Knowing that we have a large number of young people who are authentic in their faith and can be a light in the darkness of our modern wicked culture is truly reassuring that not all hope is lost. My time at Christendom has galvanized me to go the extra step to be the best person that God wants me to be.”

–David A., Virginia

“I enjoyed it so much and especially loved the community, humanities focused on the beauty of life and the vibrant Catholic atmosphere in everything said and done. I was so welcomed, seen and cherished and it is so incredibly profound that within a week I felt as if I knew the students and professors so well, but also that I immediately was at peace and full of joy. The availability of the gorgeous chapel, from the daily Masses and confessions to the time of worship in adoration there was an alive moment of reverence, joy and life in Christ. This week made me a better person, I began to know myself but also Christ better. All the activities were so much fun and the classes really inspired me to continue to strive academically at school. I am eternally grateful for this week, and though I have not lived long enough to license myself to say it, it was most probably the best week of my life.”

–Monica S., Wisconsin

“In my week at Christendom this summer, I was able to share in the love and truth Christendom is spreading through their work.  This week helped me to learn of the beautiful knowledge Christendom teaches in its classes, the fellowship of its students and faculty, and the desire of every person involved with Christendom to love Christ in all they do and still always have a good time.”

–Jack B., Michigan

“I am sincerely grateful to have had the opportunity to experience Christendom at the Best Week Ever. It gave me a taste of what living in a truly Catholic environment is like and inspired me to live out my faith more fully in my own life. The authenticity of Christendom’s Catholic atmosphere awakened a part of me I never realized I’d lost in years of being surrounded by people who do not share that faith and love for Christ which defines the college. I can definitely say it was one of the most memorable and inspiring weeks of my life. The people I met and the experiences I shared with them are something I’ll never forget.”

–Lucia H., Virginia

“I loved attending this “Best Week Ever.” I loved the Catholic identity shown throughout the college, especially the love everyone had for their Faith. This program has affected me in the most positive ways: to appreciate prayer more profoundly, to learn to serve others first, and to live the Truth. This program has helped me grow closer to Christ by finding joy in practicing my Faith and by learning that I can do it to others who can lift me up. This truly was the “Best Week Ever.”

–John Paul M., Virginia

They can’t all be wrong, can they?