Operating out of the Church of Saint Lawrence, the Newman Center provides campus ministry to 2,200 students each year who live, work, and study at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities.
The Newman Center boasts a “vibrant student community, rooted in the gospel and formed by worship, service, and student leadership.” This welcoming Catholic community on campus encourages its students to both “encounter” and “share” the abundant love of Christ. Read Ben’s testimonial below to learn more about his experience and the great work of the Newman Center.
“I transferred to the University of Minnesota my sophomore year of college. I didn’t know anyone here, but knew I wanted to find a way to grow in my faith. My faith had been a large part of my life; I was raised Lutheran and attended Lutheran schools growing up. My mom converted back to Catholicism around this time, and I started to attend mass with her and my grandmother. Naturally, when I came across the Catholic Students United table at an activities fair, I was intrigued. I never could have imagined where God would lead me from there.
Over the last few years, I’ve attended weekly Gopher Catholic nights, retreats, and fun activities put on by St. Lawrence. I’ve been very blessed to even lead the annual fall retreat, which was an incredible experience. Most importantly, CSU and St. Lawrence have helped me grow in my faith more than I ever could have imagined. I am proud to say that I am joining the Catholic church this April, and St. Lawrence has played an invaluable role in that decision. I have been so blessed to be a part of this amazing, faith-filled community.”