Brother's & Sister's in Christ,
There is so much that the Lord is doing at the Newman Center, drawing young people to Himself. We are already witnessing incredible growth this year. At our first Sunday Mass, we had to open overflow space for an additional 30 students, and this has continued for several weekends. Our most recent Bible study numbers show we had 352 participants—a 47% increase from the year prior, and one of the greatest privileges of my six years of priesthood was this past spring, when I had the honor of welcoming 25 students into the Church. Standing with them at the front of the sanctuary was a powerful moment. So far this year we have 21 NEW candidates preparing to enter the Church in spring 2025, thanks be to God.
This fills me with hope—hope that Jesus is who He says He is, and it inspires us to embrace the Church’s mission to preach the Gospel to all nations. Your generosity makes all of this possible. This mission isn’t something I or my staff can do alone—it takes all of us. While the numbers are impressive, what truly matters is each individual soul. It reminds me of the story of a boy throwing starfish back into the sea. Though he couldn’t save them all, he knew his effort made a difference to each one he touched. In the same way, each young person is worth the investment.
On November 21st through December 3rd, we have a special opportunity, a matching grant of up to $65,000. I invite you to prayerfully consider supporting our students with a gift today, which will be matched dollar-for-dollar. As I pray for this place, the word the Lord keeps giving me is “family”— the Newman Center family. A family that teaches, prays, and walks with the Lord together. Thank you for being a part of our family, our mission, and for your prayerful consideration. God bless you.
Ways to Participate
Give by Mail
Please make checks out to the St. Thomas More Newman Center and include “Give to the Max” in the memo line. Please send to the following address:
St. Thomas More Catholic Newman Center
1502 Warren St.
Mankato, MN 56001
Give by Phone
Contact Joe Bakken at the Newman Center by calling 507-387-4154. He can set up a gift for you by checking account, debit card or credit card via our secure online giving page.
Give Online
Click the buttons above to be taken to the online giving portal.