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About the Newman Catholic Center Who are we? We are a student-led Catholic orgainization in which students come together in an open and innovative atmosphere for spiritual, social and educational growth. In this way, students are able to develop their faith and round out their character through valuable and varied programs. We meet every other Sunday evening after the 6:30 pm Mass at the Newman Center to socialize, enjoy a bite to eat and plan activities and events for the semester. What can we do for you? We can help you to adjust to campus life. We can help you to help others. We can help you navigate some of the issues of the day - conscience, relationships, faith journey, vocation and other issues that are important to you. What is the Newman Catholic Center? Constructed as a large private residence in 1892, The Newman Catholic Center is located on a section of Valley Road that was originally called "Montclair Heights". The house has kept sentinel on the side of the hill for over 100 years. For over 50 years the work of Catholic Campus Ministry, the Newman Apostolate, has been present at Montclair State University. Newman takes its name from Cardinal John Newman, a scholar of the late 1800's. He advocated the compatibility of theology and scientific investigation, a radical stand for his day and age. Since higher education tries to wrestle with truth and face issues squarely, college campus ministry, as far back as the 1880's, was called "Newman" in tribute to the ideas and ideals of Cardinal Newman. What do we do? During the academic year, Mass is celebrated at 11:00 am in Kops Lounge in Russ Hall. Our evening Mass is at 6:30 pm in the Newman Catholic Center. Our Prayer Chapel is opened daily from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. Confession is available upon request. We also offer retreats - a Fall Weekend Retreat and a Busy Persons Retreat. RCIA classes are held in the Fall or Spring for those of you who are interested in becoming a Catholic or receiving the sacraments. Pre-Cana classes are held in the Spring. We sponsor trips to interesting places and provide spiritual direction, Bible study and participate in community service projects. We have an annual Thanksgiving food drive and a Christmas toy drive called "Shining Star". Staff Father Al Berner is our Chaplain/Campus Minister. He's been part of MSU since 1996. He is advisor to Sigma Delta Phi sorority. He works closely with the Dean of Students and the Vice President of Student Development and Campus Life. Look for Father Al at the Newman Center table in the Student Center lobby. Stop by and say hello and pick up information on Newman events. Father Al can also be found in and around campus activities and wherever students gather. Mary Lou Vinges is the Administrative Assistant. She's been at the Newman Catholic Center since 1991. She's the pleasant voice and wide smile that greets you on the phone or at the front door. Mary Lou is the mother of three and grandmother of five granddaughters! She brings a parent's concern to our ministry and she keeps things running smoothly and allows the Center to be a welcome home away from home for students. Faculty Advisors for the Newman Center Joe & Marie Attanasio Young Adult Ministers for the Newman Center Stephanie Haupin, President
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