Christendom College in Front Royal welcomed a record-setting student body to campus last month with an opening Mass celebrated by Bishop Michael F. Burbidge for the 2020-21 academic year.

Christendom brought 525 students to campus over orientation weekend, a new enrollment record for the college. In the midst of a challenging year, students sought out Christendom’s Catholic liberal arts education more than ever, according to director of admissions Sam Phillips — a strong indicator of the continued demand for Christendom’s in-person educational and cultural offerings, especially in 2020.

“Christendom’s educational apostolate can only truly be offered in person, with our students studying together and challenging each other to be better leaders and better Catholics,” said Phillips. “Our students are eager for that kind of learning environment where they can learn the truth, live the faith, and truly thrive, and many have expressed their gratitude to Christendom for the opportunity to study in person this fall.”

Christendom worked hard to ensure that students could return to campus while also meeting health and safety protocols.

“We have prudently planned and are taking measures for the health and safety of our community,” said Timothy O’Donnell, Christendom president. “But we are also going to do all we can to preserve the integrity of our in-person instruction and community life to the extent that we can.”

The success of the Christendom’s "Zero Federal Funding" campaign, which was begun at the start of the COVID-19 crisis, also ensured that students facing financial difficulties due to the virus were able to return this fall. 

Echoing the words of Bishop Burbidge, the students, faculty and staff of Christendom are now moving boldly forward in prayer, united as a community in the hopes of a fruitful and safe fall semester.