Ceremony marks official opening for Newman Center

Published Jan 21, 2016

Students say they are “excited to finally have a place to come together.”

After months of preparation, the TCU Catholic community has a place to call home.

The TCU Catholic Newman Center was officially opened Wednesday afternoon with a dedication and blessing service attended by students, faculty, local priests, and Bishop Michael F. Olson.

Bishop Michael F. Olson attended the opening of the Newman Center in order to bless the building.

Tom Centarri, the Catholic community’s campus minister, said the Newman Center is an open place for any student to pray, study, or hang out with their friends.

“I think the more people we’re able to share here with, it will have a much bigger impact,” Centarri said.

Students and members of the Catholic community are excited to have a center so close to campus.

“It’s a wonderful place to be grounded spiritually and now physically,” said Brad Horn, a student board representative.

Students and community members enjoyed a reception after the dedication and blessing.

“It’s gonna be a great place for all of us to come together and grow in faith,” said Michael Arterburn, a junior political science major.

Maggie Kleiser, a junior psychology major, said the Newman Center will be help bring students of all faiths together.

“It’ll really help expand the Catholic community’s presence on campus,” Kleiser said. “It’s going to help students who are struggling in their faith and encourage them to come and grow.”

The Newman Center offers a place for community members to celebrate Mass.

Rev. James Wilcox has been trying to get a Newman Center since he first came to TCU.

“People have been really excited to be here and use the center,” he said. “People are excited to see the impact it will have on students.”

The Newman Center is located on 2704 West Berry St. next to Kubes Jewelers.