Faith in Action: The Catholic Newman Community’s Impact on Campus and Beyond

At the University of Rochester, the Catholic Newman Community dedicates its efforts to fostering a balanced relationship between faith and reason.

A recipient of the Basilian Human Development Grant, Newman provides a supportive environment where students can engage their spirituality while pursuing academic and personal growth. Entirely student led, with a robust calendar of activities (including social events, retreats, and community service opportunities), the Newman Community organizes over 100 annual programs and activities.

The broader context, however, reveals a pressing challenge. Nationally, statistics show that over 80% of students stop practicing their faith during college, with many struggling to find friends who share their faith.

Through daily inspiring emails, campus prayer, and programs which link high school graduates with Catholic campus ministries across the country, Newman is actively working to reverse this statistic and support students in their spiritual journey.

The Newman Community’s impact extends beyond the campus. Crossways – a program bridging the university with impoverished local neighborhoods –  addresses socioeconomic disparities in Rochester. This initiative, supported primarily by grants like the Basilian Human Development grant, includes tutoring programs for local youth by University of Rochester students, and summer leadership workshops aimed at character and discipline building. These efforts not only provide essential academic support but also broaden the horizons of young people in the Rochester area, offering them opportunities they might otherwise miss.

Jack Rupert, the Campus Ministry Coordinator, emphasizes the importance of Newman’s efforts: “Rochester has a very high rate of poverty, so there’s a lot of need. Tutors are often prepared academically but not always mentally for the environment they will be going into to do their work. They’re surprised that a mile from campus looks so different.”

Fr. Brian Cool, the Director of Catholic Newman, and Fr. Kevin Mannara CSB, a Basilian priest, have been friends for over 35 years, sharing a long-standing friendship built on a shared mission.

Fr. Mannara reflects on this partnership, saying, “Seeing how hard Fr. Cool works and the success he’s achieved with students is inspiring. It’s an opportunity for us as Basilians to support campus ministries and provide students with a place where they can foster their faith.”

“Fr. Cool’s dedication and success in serving students are a testament to the hard work and commitment of our team. The support from the Basilians allows us to hire talented individuals and focus on our mission of growth and goodness,” Rupert notes.

As the 2024-25 academic year approaches, the Catholic Newman Community at the University of Rochester continues its work, impacting young people both on campus and in the wider community. By nurturing student faith, addressing socioeconomic disparities, and fostering strong partnerships, Newman not only helps students thrive during their college years but also equips them to carry their faith forward into their future endeavors.