Every year, we welcome a number of students into the Church at the Easter Vigil. As part of their preparation, the catechumen will walk with a Newman Center leader, often a fellow student, who will pray with them and help them in their understanding of the faith. In this blog, we bring you reflections on the Lenten season from one of these pairs of students.

Over the past 90 days, students from our JPII Newman community have taken on the challenge of Fiat90 and Exodus90, committing to prayer, asceticism, and fraternity in pursuit of deeper holiness. Through sacrifice and discipline, they have encountered God in new and powerful ways. Through this, students share their reflections on the graces they have received—how they have grown in faith, strengthened their relationships, and discovered the beauty of surrendering more fully to Christ.

Some people believe that they don't have enough money to remember both their family and their favorite charity, but even smaller amounts can have a lasting impact. The easiest way to do this is to name your favorite charities as beneficiaries of part of your IRA. It could save money on your estate taxes and for your heirs, and help nonprofits long after you pass away. Since we are a 501(c)3, we are tax exempt and so the full amount can be used for our mission.

There is such joy in giving to a worthy nonprofit whose mission is in line with your values. And really, that’s the reason most of us give. For many, giving at year end is the last chance to get a tax deduction for the year, too. The vast, vast majority of donations are still cash donations, or “checkbook giving”. This is certainly the easiest and fastest way to give, but in most cases it is not the most tax efficient.

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.

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.

There are lots of reasons why the Blessed Virgin Mary is so important, but I will limit myself to why she’s important to salvation history.

The simple answer to your question is Jesus is both Jewish and Christian.

The best way to a better prayer life is to just do it.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

Q: “How is the doctrine of original sin consistent with the idea that God makes us all good?”

With finals weeks winding down and summer plans being made, we take a moment to celebrate JPII Newman’s graduating seniors.