I am delighted to share with you the good news about what God is doing in the lives of some extraordinary young men and women at Youngstown State University. Dozens of students, faith-filled Catholic Penguins, are gathering at the St. John Henry Newman Center to worship the Lord at Holy Mass and adoration of the Eucharist, to study the Word of God and learn about our Catholic faith, and to share food and fellowship in a variety of ways, including cookouts, painting, and parties aplenty (the CPPPC, aka Catholic Penguins Party Planning Committee, has not been idle).
Our Catholic Penguin community also extends beyond the friendly confines of the Newman Center. We had a leadership retreat at Camp Frederick, have celebrated Mass and hosted lectures on the YSU campus, and joined dozens of other volunteers in Boardman to prepare meals for the needy. Many more plans are in the works.
The highlight of my first semester as Chaplain of the YSU Catholic Penguins has without doubt been the Mass we celebrated with Bishop Bonnar. It was such a delight to see the room packed with devoted students and faithful supporters ardently praising God together with the shepherd of the Youngstown church. I felt like a proud father in the presence of our local church's father in communion with the Father of us all.
Thank you for being part of our Catholic Penguins community and supporting us in so many ways. May God continue to bless you as you continue to bless the extraordinary young men and women at YSU who are now and will continue to be such a vital part of the life of our Church.
Yours in Christ,
Fr. Jonah
How Has the Newman Center Impacted You?
Welcome Back, Penguins!
This semester started off in full swing as we were busy with Welcome Week Events. From organization fairs to ice cream socials and everything in between, we were so happy to greet new students who want to be part of the Catholic Penguins!
What’s Everyone Saying?
“The Newman Center has helped me grow closer in my relationship with God. I gained great friendships and being a part of such a fantastic Catholic Community has shaped me into becoming a better man.” -Ryan Sklenar, Senior
“What drives me to donate is the people involved in the ministry. Along with the people is the activity that is building community. To sum up the drive, it is the community-building Catholic endeavors in a youthful environment.” -Peter Rich, Advisory Council Member
“The Newman Center is a kind and welcoming community open to all students. In becoming a Catholic Penguin, I have continued to grow in my faith while building relationships with others along the way.” -Joe Carlini, Sophomore, Communication Chair
How You Can Help:
St. John Henry Newman Society
The St. John Henry Newman Society is a group that offers monthly giving to the Catholic Penguins as a form of financial support. There is a great need for bringing God’s grace to the secular campus and inviting students to partake in an organization that allows their faith life to thrive. After students leave college, staying involved in their own parishes is up to them. We are here to ensure the students of YSU are equipped to do just that and feel passionate about their faith to continue evangelizing after graduation.
To get involved with monthly giving or ask any questions, please contact Jacob Sebest at [email protected] or at 330-423-0011. Please prayerfully consider joining the Society!