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Ava Schneider Ava Schneider

Why Should I Join a Bible Study?

In a world filled with constant distractions and busy schedules, finding time for spiritual growth can often feel challenging. Joining a Bible study offers a unique opportunity to engage with God’s Word in a supportive environment, allowing us to explore our beliefs, share insights, and foster meaningful connections with others.

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Tyler Doremus Tyler Doremus

Why Do We Pray the Liturgy of the Hours?

Here at the JPII Newman Center, a group of students has taken advantage of the accessibility of Liturgy of the Hours and run with it. Within the past year, a group that started with 6 students has grown to 20. Each night these students meet at 10:30 in our chapel to join in night prayer. Smaller groups have also begun to meet to pray at various hours throughout the day.

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Fr. Scott Schilmoeller Fr. Scott Schilmoeller

Ask a Priest: Is Jesus Jewish or Christian?

What is a vocation?

Vocation comes from the Latin word ‘vocare’ which means ‘to call.’ God is calling all of us to a relationship with Himself right now.  A vocation is a response to how Jesus is already calling you to be in relationship with Himself.  In this relationship, Jesus will show you His plan for your life.

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Deacon Omar Gutierrez Deacon Omar Gutierrez

Ask a Deacon: Why Do We Use Incense?

Q: “Sometimes I bring guests to Mass at Newman and they ask what the incense is for. I realized I can’t answer them very well - why do we use incense at Mass?”

The Mass includes many little things: vestments, candles, movements, bells, even silent prayers. These have been added over the centuries to the original Mass that the Apostles knew. In this installment of Ask a Deacon, I’ll share where the practice of using incense at Mass comes from and its meaning.

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Guest User Guest User

In Thanksgiving for JPII Newman…

A few members of the JPII Newman community reflect on what they’ve found to be grateful for here. For coworkers, friends, life lessons, and encounters with Christ.

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Fr. Dan Andrews Fr. Dan Andrews

Ask a Priest: What is a Sabbatical?

A sabbatical is an extended time away from his normal duties so that a priest may maintain his effectiveness and expertise in ministry by way of spiritual and/or educational experiences. A sabbatical is distinct from other leaves such as vacation, sick leave, assignments outside the diocese, etc.

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Deacon Omar Gutierrez Deacon Omar Gutierrez

Ask a Deacon: Why Confess to a Priest?

This is a very common question, and it is entirely reasonable. Yes, one can confess directly to God. He’s God, after all. But by leaving it there, we ignore a crucial part of what it means to be a Christian. We should start with Jesus’ teaching.

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Julia K. Palzer Julia K. Palzer

Plan for the Future: Make a Will!

Did you know that August is ‘Make a Will’ month? Neither did I, but apparently, it’s a thing! I’m glad it’s a thing, too, because it is very important.

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Meg Collins Meg Collins

RAs Recommend

The JPII Newman RA team is sharing their go-tos in the area for food, coffee, and sweet treats!

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Fr. Dan Andrews Fr. Dan Andrews

Ask a Priest: Why do we baptize infants in the Catholic Church?

Catholics have been baptizing babies ever since Jesus commanded his followers to baptize all people in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:18-20). Since faith is needed to be baptized the parents extend their faith on behalf of the child.

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Fr. Dan Andrews Fr. Dan Andrews

Ask a Priest: How do I Bring Someone Back to Faith?

The very fact that we want someone to come back to life in the Church shows that we have great love for them. To love means to will the good of the other. There is no greater good than to have life in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It’s so beautiful to desire this for a relative or friend.

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Fr. Scott Schilmoeller Fr. Scott Schilmoeller

Ask a Priest: How do I discern a vocation?

What is a vocation?

Vocation comes from the Latin word ‘vocare’ which means ‘to call.’ God is calling all of us to a relationship with Himself right now.  A vocation is a response to how Jesus is already calling you to be in relationship with Himself.  In this relationship, Jesus will show you His plan for your life.

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Matt and Naomi Davis Matt and Naomi Davis

Why We Tithe

“Freedom has been the greatest fruit of tithing. It has become a source of joy and peace in our life as we strive to be in the world, but not of it.”

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