Formation Day: BG Students Help in Community
NASHUA, N.H. — The entire Bishop Guertin community came together on Wednesday, Nov. 5, to celebrate Formation Day, meant to foster the ideals of whole-person formation.
This annual Day of Service aligns with the mission of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, emphasizing compassion, service, and community. In keeping with this core belief, BG students, faculty and staff spread throughout Nashua and the surrounding areas to participate in a variety of volunteer activities as part of this school-wide initiative.
The sophomores ventured into nearby neighborhoods to assist local residents with yard work. This long-running service project supports community members who may be unable to manage outdoor chores due to age or illness. For BG’s second-year students, it’s also a meaningful way to connect with the people who live closest to campus and better understand the broader Nashua community.
The juniors participated in a special hands-on project in the fieldhouse. Partnering with the local nonprofit Sleep in Heavenly Peace, students learned basic carpentry skills while building bed frames for local children in need. These volunteer-built beds are donated to families throughout the region, giving children a safe and comfortable place to sleep, sometimes for the very first time.
Seniors took their service off campus, volunteering at various nonprofits across the Nashua area. Groups from the Class of 2025 spent the day helping at nursing homes, children’s centers, hospitals, local food banks, arts organizations, and community parks, gaining first-hand experience in serving others and making a tangible impact on their city.
The freshman class used the day to build their own sense of community and deepen personal connections. With help from Grit and Wit and BG faculty and staff, the ninth graders took part in team-building exercises and leadership programming designed to strengthen relationships and foster growth.
At the conclusion of the day, the entire student body reconvened in the gym for an assembly to reflect on their experiences. Student Body Vice President Max Moynihan ’26 addressed his peers, offering a thoughtful message on the meaning of service and formation.
“Hopefully, no matter what act of service you did today, you feel fulfilled and in a better mood after helping your community,” Moynihan began. “To be honest, some of you might not feel the impact of your actions from today right now. But I can promise you that the people in our community who you helped today definitely can feel the impact, so thank you.”
He closed his remarks with a reflection on the true meaning of 'formation' at Bishop Guertin.
“One of the most important takeaways from today should be how we understand the word ‘formation,’ ” Moynihan said. “Growing up and becoming better people helps us progress in our careers, our families, and our lives. But here at BG, formation has an added meaning. It’s about becoming the best version of yourself, and the way to do that is through service. By helping those around you, you slowly become that best version. Because what’s the point of being your best self if it’s not to improve the world around you? I hope you carry that mindset with you the next time you have an opportunity to serve.”