1/12/2012: Homily Honoring Chaplain Emeritus, Msgr. Edward J. Duncan, P.A.
Dear Friends of SJCNC,
1/4/2012: Chaplain Emeritus, Monsignor Edward Duncan Passes Away at 96
Wake and Visitation at Hurst Funeral Home, LaSalle, IL on Tuesday, January 10 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
12/6/2011: Immaculate Conception Mass Schedule
Thursday, December 8 is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary and is a Holy Day of Obligation. Masses will be held Wednesday, December 7 (Vigil) at 5:00 PM and Thursday, December 8 at 12:05 PM, 5:00 PM, and 9:00 PM.
11/28/2011: St. John's Annual Christmas Concert & Mass
Please join us for St. John's Annual Christmas Concert & Mass!
Saturday, December 3, 2011
7:30 PM Christmas Concert
8:30 PM Mass
Cookies and punch will be served in the Social Hall (beneath St. John's Chapel) following the Mass.
11/8/2011: Fall Break Mass Schedule
Please note our Fall Break Mass Schedule:
Saturday, November 19 - 12:05 PM, 4:00 PM (Confessions), 5:00 PM (Vigil)
Sunday, November 20 - 10:30 AM
Monday, November 21 - 12:05 PM
Tuesday, November 22 - 12:05 PM
Wednesday, November 23 - 12:05 PM
Thursday, November 24 - 9:00 AM
Friday, November 25 - 12:05 PM
Saturday, November 26 - 12:05 PM, 4:00 PM (Confessions), 5:00 PM (Vigil)
Sunday, November 27 - 10:30 AM, 9:00 PM
Monday, November 28 - Resume Normal Mass Schedule
10/18/2011: Sports and Faith: Stories of the Devoted and the Devout
SJCNC welcomes Mr. Patrick McCaskey on November 1st at 7:00 PM in the Swetland Assembly Rooms. Mr. McCaskey is currently the Senior Director with the Chicago Bears. He is chairman of Sports Faith International, an initiative that honors exceptional athletes who lead exemplary lives at the professional, college and high school levels. He is a frequent speaker known for his sense of humor and his Christian devotion. Come join us and hear Mr. McCaskey as he honestly shares his faith and life-lesson experiences. Refreshments will be served - bring a friend!
9/27/2011: SJCNC Welcomes Matthew Kelly to Campus!
Matthew Kelly is coming to the University of Illinois
Monday, October 17th at 7:00 P.M., Foellinger Auditorium
The event is FREE!
Matthew Kelly was born in Sydney, Australia, where he began speaking and writing in 1993. Since that time he has travelled in more than fifty countries and spoken to over four million people. He has written twelve books which have appeared on the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestseller lists and have been published in twenty-five languages. His titles include: The Rhythm of Life, The Seven Levels of Intimacy, The Dream Manager, and Building Better Families.
His core message, regardless of whether he is speaking in a business, a school, or at a church, invites listeners to become the-best-version-of-themselves. Kelly convincingly communicates this message as God's desire for each of us.
Please come out and join us in welcoming Matthew Kelly!
9/7/2011: Eucharistic Miracles Exhibit at St. John's
8/22/2011: Msgr. Stuart Swetland Returns to Campus

Msgr. Stuart Swetland, former Director and Head Chaplain, returns to campus the weekend of September 17-19, 2011. Msgr. Swetland will preach all of the weekend Masses as a prelude to 24 Hours of Grace which will take place September 23-24, 2011. Following the 10:30 a.m. Mass on September 18th, a reception in honor of Msgr. Swetland will take place in the Swetland Assembly rooms on the lower level from 12:00 PM-2:00 PM. Please RSVP to Vickie Hart at vickie.hart@sjcnc.org or by calling the Chapel office at 217-255-6641.
Msgr. Swetland holds the Archbishop Harry J. Flynn Endowed Chair for Christian Ethics at Mount St. Mary's University in Emmitsburg, Maryland. He is also the Vice President for Catholic Identity of the University and serves as the Executive Director for the Advancement of Catholic Higher Education.
6/28/2011: A Message from our Director & Head Chaplain
Dear Friends of SJCNC,
4/26/2011: Annual Graduation Mass & Reception
Congratulations Graduates!
On Saturday, May 14, 2011 at 5:00pm, Msgr. Gregory Ketcham and the Priests of St. John’s Chapel will celebrate the Annual Graduation Mass at SJCNC. A special reception in the Newman Hall Dining Room (with appetizers and a buffet dinner) in honor of our graduates will immediately follow the Mass. There is no cost to attend the reception. We just ask that you notify us of the number in your party. If you are graduating and would like to be recognized during the Mass and Reception, please contact Vickie Hart @vickie.hart@sjcnc.org or call the Chapel Office at 217-344-1184 by 5-9-11.

4/12/2011: Announcement from the Director
Dear Friends of St. John’s Catholic Newman Center at the University of Illinois,
4/8/2011: Walking Stations of the Cross on the Quad
Join us for our annual Walking Stations of the Cross held on the University of Illinois Quad (behind the Illini Union). St. John's Catholic Newman Center students reenact the 14 Stations of the Cross on Good Friday, April 22, 2011 beginning at 12:00 p.m. Those wishing to attend should gather in the south courtyard of St. John's Catholic Newman Center (604 E. Armory Avenue). The faithful will then process to the Quad.

4/7/2011: Wonder What It Is Like To Work In The Vatican?
Msgr. Richard Soseman, priest of the Diocese of Peoria and currently a member of the Congregation for the Clergy in the Vatican will come to speak at St. John's on Monday, April 18 at 7:00 p.m. Msgr. Soseman will talk about what it is like to work for and in the Vatican. Following Msgr. Soseman's talk he will take questions from the audience. Light refreshments will be served. All are welcome!
3/18/2011: Spring Break Mass Schedule
The Spring Break Mass Schedule is as follows:
Saturday, March 19 - 12:05 PM Mass, 4:00 PM Confessions, 5:00 PM Vigil Mass
Sunday, March 20 - 9:00 AM Spanish Mass, 10:30 AM Mass
Monday, March 21 - 12:05 PM Mass
Tuesday, March 22 - 12:05 PM Mass
Wednesday, March 23 - 12:05 PM Mass
Thursday, March 24 - 12:05 PM Mass
Friday, March 25 - 12:05 PM Mass
Saturday, March 26 - 12:05 PM Mass, 4:00 PM Confessions, 5:00 PM Vigil Mass
Sunday, March 27 - 9:00 AM Spanish Mass, 10:30 AM Mass, 9:00 PM Mass
Monday, March 28 - Resume Normal Mass Schedule
3/15/2011: The Day to Day Experiences of Working For & In The Vatican
Monsignor Richard Soseman, a member of the Vatican's Congregation for the Clergy, will be present to speak with students on Monday, April 18th at 7:00 p.m. in the Swetland Assembly Room. Monsignor Soseman will give a 40 minute presentation on "The Day to Day Experiences of Working For & In The Vatican." Monsignor Soseman will then field questions from the audience.
3/11/2011: Stations of the Cross during Lent

2/25/2011: Ash Wednesday Schedule-March 9
| 8:00am | Mass with Ashes |
| 12:05pm | Mass with Ashes |
| 12:10pm | Ash Service with Liturgy of the Word |
| 1:45pm | Ash Service on the Quad |
| 2:00-3:00pm | Confessions on the Quad |
| 3:45pm | Exposition |
| 4:00pm | Confessions |
| 5:00pm | Mass with Ashes |
| 5:05pm | Ash Service with Liturgy of the Word |
| 7:00pm | Spanish Mass |
| 9:00pm | Mass with Ashes |
| 9:05pm | Ash Service with Liturgy of the Word |
2/15/2011: Announcement from the Director
Dear Students, Staff, and Friends of SJCNC,
The Superior of the Franciscans of the Immaculate Conception notified me a number of weeks ago that Sr. Sarah Roy would become the full-time Vocations Director for their Order next year. Thus, leaving us with only one full-time Sister available next year to minister to the students of St. John's Catholic Newman Center at the University of Illinois. Although I care very much for Sr. Sarah and Sr. Janice Keenan and have let them know that, my pastoral concern and love for the students must be my priority. Thus, after consultation with the Catholic Diocese of Peoria and the Superior of the Franciscans, a decision has been made to bring our relationship of full-time ministry with the Franciscans to a conclusion this coming summer. We THANK Sr. Janice Keenan, Sr. Saray Roy, and all the other Franciscans who have previously served in ministry at St. John's! We will enjoy Sr. Sarah's frequent visits in doing vocations work in the years to come and I anticipate seeing both Sr. Sarah and Sr. Janice at many Koinonia Reunions and the like. They are always welcome at St. John's! Be assured, ALL ministries of St. John's Catholic Newman Center will continue on! Because of my care and concern for all of our students, and especially in this care, for our young ladies, please keep me in your prayers as I pursue discussions with other Religious Congregations who can join our Pastoral Staff and meet the needs of our students. May God continue to Bless us now and in the future!
Sincerely Yours in Christ,
Msgr. Ketcham
11/23/2010: The Healing of Deacon John Sullivan
On Monday, February 7, 2011, St. John's Catholic Newman Center will host Deacon John Sullivan. Deacon Sullivan, a permanent deacon in the Archdiocese of Boston, received miraculous healing with the intercession of Cardinal Newman. It was through this miracle that the Church declared Newman “Blessed.”
Join us to hear Deacon Sullivan's story at 7:00 p.m. in the Swetland Assembly Rooms. Following Deacon Sullivan's talk, time will be allotted for questions and answers. Refreshments will be served.
11/1/2010: Jack Roeser to Speak at St. John's
SJCNC welcomes Mr. Jack Roeser, renowned Champaign News Talk Radio host. Jack shares his views on "Faith and Politics" at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, November 9th in the Swetland Assembly rooms. Jack is an entrepreneur in business and politics and is the Chairman and founder of Otto Engineering, Inc. in Carpentersville, IL. For decades Jack has put his money where his mouth is in the political arena and he has issued a call for more good men and women to step forward and join in the work for positive reform.
10/20/2010: SJO's 5K Run for Justice in Crystal Lake Park
10/7/2010: Fr. Jeff Grob-Exorcist to Speak at St. John's

"I saw Satan fall like lightning from the sky"
Fr. Jeff Grob, exorcist for the Archdiocese of Chicago, will speak at St. John's Catholic Newman Center on Thursday, October 28th at 7:00 p.m. in the Chapel. Last year, St. John's exorcist speaker filled Foellinger and we are once again expecting a full house this year. Fr. Grob will speak of his training and experiences. Time for questions and answers will follow Fr. Grob's talk. Refreshments will be served in the Newman Hall Dining Room following the event. The event is free of charge.
10/7/2010: 24 Hours of Grace
From 11:00 a.m. on October 1st until 11:00 a.m. on October 2nd, St. John's Catholic Newman Center held its second annual 24 Hours of Grace. Confessions were heard in the Chapel for all 24 hours. A Procession of the Divine Mercy image to the Quad preceeded 2 1/4 hours of non-stop Confessions on the Quad. Students also signed up for Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament around the clock.
8/25/2010: Hear Fr. Co's Radio Interviews!
Our own Fr. Anthony Co has been a guest on Relevant Radio four times during 2010. Click here for links to each of his recent interviews.
8/19/2010: SJCNC's Shawn Reeves Featured in EWTN Story
Our Director of Religious Education, Shawn Reeves, was the focus of a story about an education conference recently held at Franciscan University of Steubenville:
http://www.ewtnnews.com/new.php?id=1304
Nice work, Shawn!
8/10/2010: Fr. Anthony Co Returns from Mission Trip
Last month, Fr. Anthony Co served as the chaplain for a FOCUS mission trip to the Philippines. Among the FOCUS missionaries leading the trip was Newman alumnus and 2003 Illinois graduate Miko Sy. Check out their brief retrospective video below:
7/30/2010: Update on Dr Howell's Reinstatement
Dear Friends of St. John’s Catholic Newman Center,
I want to share with you how the conversations that have taken place between our Newman Center and the University of Illinois have recently borne fruit. I invite you to read the public statement from the Diocese of Peoria found below. Thank you for your patience with us during the confusion of recent weeks—your support has been greatly appreciated as we strived to do what was necessary to defend our tradition, chart our future, and retain a healthy relationship with the University of Illinois.
Sincerely Yours in Christ,
Msgr. Gregory K. Ketcham
Director
NEWS RELEASE
The Catholic Diocese of Peoria
309-671-1550
July 30, 2010
DIOCESE OF PEORIA CONFIRMS UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS’ DECISION
TO REHIRE CATHOLIC PROFESSOR KENNETH HOWELL
For Immediate Release
PEORIA- The University of Illinois has confirmed with officials from the Catholic Diocese
of Peoria that they will comply with the Diocese’s request that Dr. Kenneth Howell be allowed to teach courses at the University. Chancellor, Patricia M. Gibson, stated, “The
“In recent years, Dr. Howell has done an excellent job teaching at the University and
“St. John’s Catholic Newman Center and the Diocese of Peoria adamantly embrace the whole of Catholic teaching as decreed by the Magisterium of the Church. The University of Illinois has indicated that they value a relationship with the Newman Center and plan to continue to offer these courses in Catholic studies. They have also asked that they be allowed the freedom to pay Dr. Howell’s salary for instructing these courses
and this decision was met with no objection from the Diocese, the Newman Center, or the Alliance Defense Fund, which has been actively involved in assisting Dr. Kenneth Howell in this matter.”
Gibson further stated, “Most Reverend Daniel Jenky, C.S.C., Bishop of the Diocese of Peoria, is immensely grateful that the University of Illinois was willing to listen to our concerns and has decided to act in what he believes is a very appropriate manner in allowing Dr. Kenneth Howell to return to the classroom. St. John’s Catholic Newman Center and the Diocese of Peoria have had a rare and proven relationship with the University of Illinois for decades and we look forward to further discussions with them as we chart our future, and maintain a healthy relationship. Overall, it is important that we work together to determine how St. John’s Catholic Newman Center can best serve the University and the Catholic students there.”
St. John’s Catholic Newman Center intends to meet with Dr. Howell next week to determine an ongoing role for him at the Newman Center which will complement his work teaching at the University.
###
7/16/2010: Announcement Regarding Dr. Howell
Statement from the Diocese of Peoria
NEWS RELEASE
The Catholic Diocese of Peoria
July 15, 2010
Contact:
Patricia M. Gibson
Chancellor
309-671-1550
“Diocese of Peoria to Meet with University of Illinois Officials Over Termination of Catholic Professor”
For Immediate Release
PEORIA- The Diocese of Peoria has confirmed that they will be meeting with University of Illinois officials to discuss the termination of Catholic Professor, Kenneth Howell, who had taught courses in the Department of Religion. St. John’s Catholic Newman Center at the University of Illinois employed Professor Howell to teach the Catholic courses at the University under a previous arrangement with the University. Howell was informed at the end of the spring semester that he would no longer be allowed to teach in the Department of Religion.
The Chancellor of the Diocese of Peoria, Patricia M. Gibson, stated, “The Diocese has been seeking contact with the University of Illinois since the time we were informed of the decision to terminate Professor Howell. Only last week did the University contact the Diocese to arrange a meeting. The University has given us every assurance that they intend to continue to offer Catholic courses in the Department of Religion. They have also indicated that they are open to a discussion concerning who will teach these courses in the future.
“The Diocese has had direct contact with the President of the University of Illinois, who has reiterated that academic freedom is at the core of their teaching and he is willing to have a review of this action so that all the details related to this situation can be investigated.
“The Diocese of Peoria is committed to pursuing this matter and looks forward to cooperation from the University of Illinois so that a just resolution can be obtained.”
7/4/2010: 200 campus ‘missionaries’ trained at U. of I. Newman
As published in The Catholic Post:
CHAMPAIGN -- Curtis Martin likes everything about St. John’s Catholic Newman Center at the University of Illinois, from the hospitality of Msgr. Gregory Ketcham, chaplain, and his staff to the beauty of the chapel.
“The facilities are second to none,” said the founder and president of FOCUS -- the Fellowship of Catholic University Students -- who brought 200 full-time “missionaries” to St. John’s for a second summer of training in Scripture, evangelization and apologetics. The five-week session ended July 2 with a commissioning Mass celebrated by Bishop Robert Finn of Kansas City-St. Joseph, Mo. ... [Read the full article by The Catholic Post here.]
5/17/2010: Follow that priest... on Twitter!
That's right, our own Fr. Anthony Co has started using Twitter. Check out his latest tweets here: http://twitter.com/FrAnthonyCo
Get updates via SMS (after you sign up for an account) by texting follow FrAnthonyCo to 40404in the United States.
5/6/2010: Graduation Festivities - May 15
Congratulations, Class of 2010!
On Saturday, May 15 at 5:00pm, Msgr. Gregory Ketcham and the Priests of St. John’s Chapel will celebrate the annual Graduation Mass at SJCNC. A special reception in the Newman Hall Dining Room (with appetizers and a buffet dinner) in honor of our graduates will immediately follow the Mass. There is no cost to attend the reception. If you are graduating and would like to be recognized during the Mass and Reception, please contact Vickie Hart @vickie.hart@sjcnc.org or call the Chapel Office at 217-344-1184 by May 10, 2010.
4/5/2010: Pictures from Living Stations of the Cross
Check out pictures from our annual Living Stations of the Cross at the Catholic Illini blog:
http://www.catholicillini.com/2010/04/good-friday-slideshow.html
Happy Easter!
3/9/2010: Catholic-Muslim dialogue on Mary
Mary: Muslims and Catholics in Conversation
Though many may not be aware, both Catholics and Muslims hold Mary, the Mother of Jesus, in high esteem. On Wednesday, March 17th we’ll have an opportunity to discover the various similarities and differences between the Muslim and Catholic views of Mary. A representative from the Muslim community and a representative from the St. John’s pastoral staff will speak on the significance of Mary in each of their respective faiths, followed by a meal with time for discussion.
The event will begin at 6pm in the Msgr. Swetland Room at SJCNC. So that we might prepare enough food, we ask that you RSVP to Shawn Reeves at shawn.reeves@sjcnc.org by Monday, March 15.
3/8/2010: We've got a blog!
Check out the new Catholic Illini blog at www.catholicillini.com! Several members of the SJCNC team - including Fr. Luke, Shawn Reeves, and FOCUS team director Travis Todd - will share their insights with the rest of the world on a regular basis. We'll also use the blog to share pictures and videos of recent events and to promote our upcoming activities. Take a look and join the conversation.
2/18/2010: Video & Audio of D'Souza-Loftus Debate Available Here!
Click here to download the full audio (55.9MB) of the February 9 debate between John W. Loftus and Dinesh D'Souza:
"Does the Christian God Exist?"
2/9/2010: Dinesh D'Souza and John W. Loftus debate TONIGHT!
Watch Dinesh D'Souza and John W. Loftus debate tonight at 7pm in Foellinger Auditorium! If you're snowed in or otherwise can't make it to campus this evening, you may watch it live here:
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/sjcnc
By week's end, we plan to have audio and video recordings of the event available here. Stay tuned!
If you attend the debate in person, be sure to join both speakers at the Newman Center (one block west of Foellinger Audtorium) immediately following the event for a special book signing. Illini Union Bookstore staff will be on hand, selling copies of D'Souza's What's So Great About Christianity? and Loftus' Why I Became an Atheist.
2/5/2010: 40 Hours Devotion with Fr. Tom Holloway
The weekend of February 19-21, former SJCNC chaplain Fr. Tom Holloway will return to campus to lead our Forty Hours Devotion.
The full schedule for the weekend may be found here: http://www.sjcnc.org/fortyhours.aspx
1/13/2010: The Great God Debate comes to Univ. of Illinois
12/11/2009: FOCUS team prepares to lead over 100 students to Orlando
The six FOCUS missionaries serving our campus have been hard at work preparing for the national 'Made for More' conference, with a little help from some SJCNC staff:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqDjE1nxQm4
Several thousand college students from around the country will gather in Orlando for prayer, fellowship, and instruction in Christian leadership, morality, and more. More than 100 U of I students have registered thus far. Details may be found at www.focusconference.org.
12/7/2009: December 8, Holy Day of Obligation
The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a Holy Day of Obligation. A Catholic is obliged to attend the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass in honor of Our Lady under penalty of grave sin if one misses without a serious reason. Our Mass schedule will be:
12/2/2009: Advent Reflections
SJCNC's Director of Religious Education, Shawn Reeves, has begun offering reflections on his blog as we prepare for Christmas. Periodically each week of Advent new mediations will be added and linked at the bottom of the preceding meditation post
Follow the link to Within the Garden:
http://withinthegarden.blogspot.com/
11/12/2009: Illini Market to close
11/4/2009: 5K Run for Justice this Saturday!
10/28/2009: "The Real Exorcist" draws crowd of nearly 1700
On Monday, October 26, 2009, Fr. Vince Lampert returned to campus to share the unique experiences and insights afforded him by virtue of his being one of only 12 exorcist priests in the US. Nearly 1700 students and community members turned out for "The Real Exorcist," and the question-and-answer portion of the program lasted for more than 90 minutes.
The Daily Illini's story may be found here.
Local TV station WICD also covered the event--watch here.
You can watch the formal portion of the presentation (in three parts) on our Youtube channel here.
You can listen to an mp3 of the full presentation here.
10/22/2009: Return of "The Real Exorcist"
Fr. Vince Lampert, official exorcist for the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, will return to campus on October 26, 2009. At 7pm that evening in Foellinger Auditorium, he will expound on the Church's understanding of exorcism, demonic activity, and the like. The event, "The Real Exorcist," is open to the public and a Q&A session will follow the formal portion of Father's presentation.
Fr. Lampert is one of only 12 officially trained and recognized exorcist priests in the US, and has been serving in this capacity for four years. He is also a full-time pastor of a large parish in Indianapolis.
Last year, Fr. Lampert spoke at SJCNC to an overflow crowd of nearly 300 students for two-and-a-half hours. A much larger crowd is expected for this year's event.
10/7/2009: New movie on Fatima miracle to be screened at SJCNC
9/30/2009: Fr. Wade Menezes to speak during 24 Hours of Grace
Fr. Wade Menezes of the Fathers of Mercy--often seen on EWTN--will visit SJCNC this weekend during our '24 Hours of Grace' event. On Friday, October 2nd, Fr. Wade will give a talk on the power to overcome sin that is found particularly in the sacrament of reconciliation.
The talk will begin at 7pm in the Chapel and will be followed by a reception with light refreshments at 8pm in Lewis Lounge. All are encouraged to attend.
9/30/2009: Newman RAs featured in Daily Illini
See the full story in the DI Housing Guide here:
9/22/2009: '40 Days for Life' Begins Today
Champaign, IL – “On September 22, Champaign area pro-life advocates will hold a kick-off event at the Newman Center’s Lewis Lounge at 604 E. Armory Ave. at 8pm to once again join together with people of faith and conscience from many other communities for the area’s third 40 Days for Life campaign starting on September 23,” said Ross Johnson, spokesman for the Champaign effort.
“We know 40 Days for Life has made a difference in the Champaign area,” said Johnson. “Here are just a few of the positive results of our previous campaigns: At least six lives that we know of have been saved from abortion, hundreds of students and community members participated in this peaceful vigil for the first time, and thousands of hours were spent in prayer for the unborn and their mothers."
40 Days for Life is an intensive pro-life initiative that focuses on 40 days of prayer and fasting, 40 days of peaceful vigil at abortion facilities, and 40 days of grassroots educational outreach. The 40-day time frame is drawn from examples throughout Biblical history where God brought about world-changing transformation in 40-day periods.
“40 Days for Life has generated proven lifesaving results since its beginning in 2004 in Bryan/College Station, Texas,” said David Bereit, national director of 40 Days for Life. “During four previous coordinated campaigns, more than 240 communities have participated in this effort. More than 200,000 people – representing some 5,000 churches – have committed to pray and fast. And we know of at least 1,561 unborn children whose lives were spared from abortion during 40 Days for Life campaigns.”
To learn more about the 40 Days for Life campaign, visit: www.40daysforlife.com. For information about the Champaign campaign, visit: www.40daysforlife.com/champaig
9/18/2009: Need forgiveness?
24 Hours of Grace
Join us for 24 Hours of Grace, October 2-3. Confessions will be heard in the Chapel beginning at 11:00 a.m. on October 2 and will continue until 11:00 am on October 3. Also, Confessions will be heard on the Quad on October 2 from 1-3:00 p.m. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament will also occur during these 24 hours. The regular Mass schedule will be in place for the weekend. Materials for perparing for the Sacrament of Reconciliation can be found in the Chapel or by calling 217-344-1184.
8/30/2009: Flood Situation Update
We have received approval from the Fire Dept. to allow students to return to their rooms in the north wing of Newman Hall.
The following were accomplished today:
- The temporary back-up generator has been installed and tested.
- The fire alarm system has been tested and is in service.
- The sprinkler system was approved by the Fire Dept.
- Hot water has been restored to both wings of the Hall.
On Monday we will re-stock the kitchen. The first meal available that day will be dinner. Newman residents may still go to Illini Tower for breakfast and lunch.
A/C will not be available in the Dining Room or offices as the air handling equipment was damaged.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
With questions, call 217.344.1266.
8/28/2009: Flooding at SJCNC
On the night of Thursday, August 27, a severe thunderstorm dropped several inches of rain over Champaign-Urbana in a very short period of time. The volume of precipitation caused flooding over large portions of the University of Illinois campus.
8/21/2009: Welcome Home!
Newman Guides swarmed the vehicles of new residents from 8am to 5pm on Thursday, the official Move-In Day for the 2009-10 academic year. As usual, the Newman Guides proved the adage "many hands make light work" as these returning students helped new Newmanites find their rooms, move their belongings, and navigate the check-in process. In the meantime, parents were generally left with little to do but take a well-deserved break in the Dining Room.
Newman Guides: "We can do it!"
6/2/2009: Listen to Cardinal George's Grad Mass Homily
On May 16, 2009, Francis Cardinal George delivered an excellent homily on friendship at our Graduation Mass. Click here to listen.
You may also listen to the following remarks from the SJCNC Graduation reception:
Brock Perkes, Head RA, Class of '09
Ned Zerwic, father Megan Zerwic ('09)
5/27/2009: Cardinal George to Newman grads: Friendship is more than Facebook
(The following article was published in The Catholic Post of the Diocese of Peoria.)
By Tom Dermody
CHAMPAIGN — Popular online social networks such as Facebook and MySpace can be useful and enjoyable ways of contacting people and staying in touch, but Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago challenged college graduates to embrace a much deeper definition of friendship, especially with God through prayer.
“Friendship takes time and patience,” said Cardinal George, principal celebrant and homilist at a Graduation Mass for University of Illinois students and their families that drew an overflow crowd [May 16] to St. John’s Catholic Chapel on campus.
Click here to read the entire article: http://cdop.org/post/PostArticle.aspx?ID=1022
4/14/2009: Dr. Howell on EWTN Radio
Shortly before Easter, SJCNC's own Dr. Kenneth Howell appeared on EWTN Radio's "Open Line" to share his conversion story and talk about his recent book on St. Ignatius of Antioch. To listen to a recording of the show, click here.
3/30/2009: 'Legacy Liturgy' planned for May 16
On Saturday, May 16 at 5:00pm, His Eminence Francis Cardinal George of Chicago will celebrate the annual Graduation Mass at SJCNC with Bishop Daniel Jenky of Peoria. A special reception in honor of our graduating seniors and marking the end of our 80th year of ministry will immediately follow the Mass, and will be attended by both of our honored guests. Friends and students of SJCNC are invited to attend and heavy hors d'oeuvres will be served.
Those seniors wishing to be recognized at the Graduation Mass should contact Vickie Hart in the Chapel Office at 217-255-6641 or by emailing vickie.hart@sjcnc.org.
3/24/2009: Two students spend Spring Break 'Biking for Babies'
SJCNC students Mike Schaefer ('11) and Jimmy Becker ('09) are in the middle of a six-day, 600-mile bicycle trek across Illinois. Instead of lying on a beach or basking in the glow of the TV, the two have chosen to sacrifice Spring Break in order to raise money and awareness for mothers and their unborn children.
Schaefer, Becker, and a number of fellow students have spent the last several weeks planning and promoting Biking for Babies in the hopes of raising funds for the Living Alternatives Preganancy Center and for Students for Life of Illinois (run by SJCNC alumnus John-Paul Deddens).
See local news coverage here and follow Mike and Jimmy on their journey at bikingforbabies.com.
3/13/2009: Author Joseph Pearce to speak at SJCNC
Mr. Pearce will share the story of how several 'dead white men' (like G.K. Chesterton and Cardinal Newman) led him on his journey from East London racist rebelrouser--and convicted criminal--to devoted professor of literature. For part of his conversion story, see this clip from a recent Chilean TV appearance [fear not, Mr. Pearce's portion is in English]. The author will also allow time after his presentation to sign copies of his books.2/20/2009: Schedule for Divine Mercy Weekend
SJCNC is very pleased to welcome Fr. Tony Stephens of the Fathers of Mercy for a special weekend of preparation for Lent. The purpose of this weekend is to introduce students and staff to the Divine Mercy devotion and deepen their understanding of the power of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. All are welcome!
- Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
- Homily entitled “Fundamentals of the Divine Mercy”
- Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
- Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament
- Reception to follow
- 9:00am - Conference for Staff and Student Leaders: “Leadership in Evangelizing The Divine Mercy”
- 10:30am - Conference on “Church, Vessel of Mercy”
- 12:05pm - Holy Sacrifice of the Mass
- Confessions to Follow Mass
- 4:00pm - More Confessions
- 5:00pm - Fr. Stephens celebrates Mass and gives Homily
2/20/2009: Catholics at the Capitol
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Springfield, Illinois
Join Francis Cardinal George, O.M.I. and the Illinois Bishops on March 4th for Catholics at the Capitol, a unique opportunity to come to Springfield to discuss key issues that promote the common good by defending human life and working for social justice.
Faithful Citizenship calls each one of us to live our faith every day, not just on Election Day.
YOUR PRESENCE MAKES A DIFFERENCE!!
For further information, contact the Catholic Conference of Illinois at 312-368-1066, go to www.catholicconferenceofillinois.org or contact Dave Hazen at 217-255-6659 or at david.hazen@sjcnc.org
2/3/2009: Missionaries Plan for Illinois Summer
The training--which begins May 30--consists of five weeks of prayer, hands-on training in evangelization and team building. This cooperative effort, between one of the largest Catholic centers of its kind and the most expansive Catholic campus outreach in the United States, builds on an eight-year history of collaboration.
"The University of Illinois was one of the first major campuses to have a FOCUS team," said Curtis Martin, FOCUS President and Founder. "We were enthusiastic, even back in 2000, because of the Newman Center's reputation and the need for outreach at a school of 40,000 students."
SJCNC was dedicated in 1928 and has the only Catholic residence hall on a secular campus in the US, which currently houses almost 600 students. For 80 years the Newman Center has provided students at U of I with spiritual, social, and intellectual formation, as well as valuable Catholic fellowship with their peers.
Angela Telthorst, a 2003 graduate of the University of Illinois and current FOCUS Midwest Regional Director, was very excited about the news. She cites that the witness of young Catholics at SJCNC "propelled" her to serve as a missionary with FOCUS beginning in 2004.
"My two and a half years at the University of Illinois were some of the most significant of my life. Upon my arrival at SJCNC, I encountered a vibrant Catholic community where I found the support, encouragement and formation I needed to develop my faith… Uniting in such a beautiful facility on a Big Ten University will be an excellent environment for our staff to pray and prepare for their work on campus," stated Telthorst.
Fr. Gregory Ketcham, SJCNC Chaplain and Director, also shared in the excitement. "Our mission really coincides with that of FOCUS. The partnership just makes sense. Personally, I'm very enthusiastic about their decision to spend the summer here, as the missionaries have a joy and a zeal for Christ that is contagious."
Over the past eight years, 30 University of Illinois graduates have joined FOCUS as missionaries. For the upcoming 2009-2010 academic year FOCUS projects adding several new campuses to their current 39, and hiring dozens of new missionaries, bringing their missionary numbers to more than 250. See www.focusonline.org for more information.
12/18/2008: Dr. Howell publishes new book on Ignatius of Antioch
We are happy to announce the release of Dr. Kenneth J. Howell's most recent book, Ignatius of Antioch: A New Translation and Theological Commentary.
Ignatius of Antioch succeeded St. Peter as bishop of Antioch and was the spiritual son of St. John the Apostle. Martyred in Rome, Ignatius stopped to visit seveal bishops of the churches in Asia Minor as he traveled under Roman guard from his home in Antioch of Syria. Along the way, he penned seven letters which give us snapshots of the faith and life of the churches of Asia Minor in a way equaled only by the Acts of the Apostles and the Book of Revelation. Understanding Ignatius of Antioch is the key to truly knowing the Christians of the first two centuries and what they believed.
Dr. Howell's book provides new translations of Ignatius's seven letters from the original Greek. His commentary and accompanying notes on each letter draw out the connections between Ignatius and the New Testament, especially Paul. The introductory essays explain the teachings of this church father who is still celebrated by eastern and western Christians alike and show his relevance to the modern world.
Ignatius of Antioch: A New Translation and Theological Commentary is available for purchase at the Illini Market.
1/12/2012: Homily Honoring Chaplain Emeritus, Msgr. Edward J. Duncan, P.A. More
1/4/2012: Chaplain Emeritus, Monsignor Edward Duncan Passes Away at 96 More
12/6/2011: Immaculate Conception Mass Schedule More
11/28/2011: St. John's Annual Christmas Concert & Mass More
11/8/2011: Fall Break Mass Schedule More
10/18/2011: Sports and Faith: Stories of the Devoted and the Devout More
9/27/2011: SJCNC Welcomes Matthew Kelly to Campus! More
9/7/2011: Eucharistic Miracles Exhibit at St. John's More
8/22/2011: Msgr. Stuart Swetland Returns to Campus More
6/28/2011: A Message from our Director & Head Chaplain More
4/26/2011: Annual Graduation Mass & Reception More
4/12/2011: Announcement from the Director More
4/8/2011: Walking Stations of the Cross on the Quad More
4/7/2011: Wonder What It Is Like To Work In The Vatican? More
3/18/2011: Spring Break Mass Schedule More
3/15/2011: The Day to Day Experiences of Working For & In The Vatican More
3/11/2011: Stations of the Cross during Lent More
2/25/2011: Ash Wednesday Schedule-March 9 More
2/15/2011: Announcement from the Director More
11/23/2010: The Healing of Deacon John Sullivan More
11/1/2010: Jack Roeser to Speak at St. John's More
10/20/2010: SJO's 5K Run for Justice in Crystal Lake Park More
10/7/2010: Fr. Jeff Grob-Exorcist to Speak at St. John's More
10/7/2010: 24 Hours of Grace More
8/25/2010: Hear Fr. Co's Radio Interviews! More
8/19/2010: SJCNC's Shawn Reeves Featured in EWTN Story More
8/10/2010: Fr. Anthony Co Returns from Mission Trip More
7/30/2010: Update on Dr Howell's Reinstatement More
7/16/2010: Announcement Regarding Dr. Howell More
7/4/2010: 200 campus ‘missionaries’ trained at U. of I. Newman More
5/17/2010: Follow that priest... on Twitter! More
5/6/2010: Graduation Festivities - May 15 More
4/5/2010: Pictures from Living Stations of the Cross More
3/9/2010: Catholic-Muslim dialogue on Mary More
3/8/2010: We've got a blog! More
2/18/2010: Video & Audio of D'Souza-Loftus Debate Available Here! More
2/9/2010: Dinesh D'Souza and John W. Loftus debate TONIGHT! More
2/5/2010: 40 Hours Devotion with Fr. Tom Holloway More
1/13/2010: The Great God Debate comes to Univ. of Illinois More
12/11/2009: FOCUS team prepares to lead over 100 students to Orlando More
12/7/2009: December 8, Holy Day of Obligation More
12/2/2009: Advent Reflections More
11/12/2009: Illini Market to close More
11/4/2009: 5K Run for Justice this Saturday! More
10/28/2009: "The Real Exorcist" draws crowd of nearly 1700 More
10/22/2009: Return of "The Real Exorcist" More
10/7/2009: New movie on Fatima miracle to be screened at SJCNC More
9/30/2009: Fr. Wade Menezes to speak during 24 Hours of Grace More
9/30/2009: Newman RAs featured in Daily Illini More
9/22/2009: '40 Days for Life' Begins Today More
9/18/2009: Need forgiveness? More
8/30/2009: Flood Situation Update More
8/28/2009: Flooding at SJCNC More
8/21/2009: Welcome Home! More
6/2/2009: Listen to Cardinal George's Grad Mass Homily More
5/27/2009: Cardinal George to Newman grads: Friendship is more than Facebook More
4/14/2009: Dr. Howell on EWTN Radio More
3/30/2009: 'Legacy Liturgy' planned for May 16 More
3/24/2009: Two students spend Spring Break 'Biking for Babies' More
3/13/2009: Author Joseph Pearce to speak at SJCNC More
2/20/2009: Schedule for Divine Mercy Weekend More
2/20/2009: Catholics at the Capitol More
2/3/2009: Missionaries Plan for Illinois Summer More
12/18/2008: Dr. Howell publishes new book on Ignatius of Antioch More

