Catholic Residence Halls

The passionate search for the “life of wisdom,” as Pope John Paul II indicated, is at the center of the “deep bond that exists between the Church and the university.” The Church and higher education are natural partners in this quest so why not work together for the welfare of individuals and society?

The Church has a proven track record of erecting institutions of higher learning that engage the mind, body and spirit in the pursuit of truth.  In the United States these Catholic colleges and universities are private institutions, whose alumni are often staunch supporters of their alma maters.  Because these schools seamlessly weave faith and knowledge, financial gifts to these Catholic colleges and universities sustain the entire learning experience: mind, body and spirit.

In the latter half of the twentieth century, however, non-sectarian public universities and public four-year colleges have grown in size, stature and influence.  There are 4,197 colleges or universities in the United States; 238 of them Catholic. 

As the influence of non-sectarian institutions of higher education continues to spread, it is important for the Catholic Church in the United States to find new ways to engage students as active Catholics.  Admittedly, this must be accomplished in an environment with a greatly reduced number of priests and religious men and women.  Nonetheless, if the Catholic Church in the United States is to prosper, more effective methods to educate young people in the Catholic tradition must be developed.

Newman Center Housing was the focus of Amy Smith’s article in the National Catholic Register in the February 25, 2007 issue.