Eastern Illinois University Newman Catholic Center

Facilities

The Newman Catholic Center was built in 1999. The current facilities include:

St. Philip Neri Chapel



This 5,000 square foot chapel is a house of prayer. Students, faculty, staff, and community members have 24-hour access. It is a place for mass, evening prayer, the celebration of the sacraments, adoration, prayer, and meditation. The alcoves are home to the Blessed Sacrament Reservation Chapel, a shrine to Our Lady of Guadalupe, and the Stations of the Cross. The Reconciliation Room allows for students and community to experience the sacrament of Penance in a healing environment. Times for mass, prayer, and the Sacrament of Penance are posted on the home page. The chapel is under the patronage of St. Philip Neri, a 16th century saint who was a man of great humility and joy. John Cardinal Newman had a special devotion to St. Philip Neri.

Moriarty Lounge


This 1,500 square foot area is a place for relaxation, study, meetings, and social gatherings. The lounge has Wi-Fi and there is a fireplace and comfortable seating. The lounge is named in honor of Msgr. Daniel Moriarty, who was director of Newman for 45 years.

Fr. Michael J. McGivney Gathering Space


As you enter the center, this 2,500 square foot room provides a hospitable and welcoming room. Many social gatherings, meetings, and study sessions are held in this space. It also provides a inviting access to the enter Newman Center. The Gathering space is named in honor of the founder of the Knights of Columbus. He lived in the 19th century (1852-1890) and his cause of beatification is presently before the Church.

Library

In the unfinished basement, the Newman Community has a unique and wonderful collection of books on Theology. This library is open to all as a study and meeting space, and currently it is being upgraded to allow for easier navigation of materials. It is a great resource for our students in the Catholic Scholars Program and any student doing research for courses on campus.

Mary Shrine


On the grounds behind the Newman Catholic Center is a shrine to our Lady, which provides a quiet place to pray and meditate.

Ancillary Areas

The volleyball court, fire pit, and Catacombs are social recreation areas for our students to use. Throughout the year, events are held in these areas. However, students are always welcome to enjoy these spaces.