New Catholic ministry could become a reality

Members of the Catholic Diocese of Tyler are working to establish a ministry on campus.  Dr. Shawn Black, chemistry lecturer and deacon at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, said he works closely with outside sources to help fill the need for a catholic student ministry.

Black said he is working with the Newman Centers and with the head of the Newman Center at SFA, Jesudoss Thomas. They are working on getting a center started, but are unsure when it might become a reality.  The need for this has been brewing for many years, he said.

“The center is still in its infant stages.  We are starting thoughtful and staying long-term.  We plan to listen to God and see what he would like us to next,” Black said. The Newman Centers were founded on the campus of Michigan State and Cardinal Newman’s writings represent the patron ideas at Michigan State.

Founded in 1893, Newman Centers provide student ministry through satellite campuses all over the country.  Senior Luke Onderko, who works with Black, says he senses the need for the new student ministry.

“It’s good because the Baptist Student Ministry is here so the Catholic students need a place where they feel comfortable.  I went into the Baptist Center once and did not feel very at home,”   Kristen Epke, a junior, said.