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Faith Formation and Education
Esselen Peer Ministry
Overview
The Newman Catholic Center offers up to four Peer Ministry Fellowships to UMass undergraduates each year. Esselen Peer Ministers reach out to UMass students "where they are", in both a practical and a spiritual sense. As fellow students, the peer ministers easily identify with the challenges and opportunities faced by classmates, dorm-mates, or teammates.
The Program for 2011-2012
UMass students Sara Deady, Sean Riel and Patrick Notini are on staff at the Newman Center as Esselen Peer Ministers for 2011-12. Looking to connect? Meet Sean, Sara or Patrick at the Newman Center on Sunday nights. Visit and "friend" them virtually on Facebook at www.facebook.com/peers.newman and email them at peers.newman@gmail.com
Peer Ministers' Outreach Extends in Three Ways:
MINISTRY OF PRESENCE
Peer ministers witness simply by living the Gospel in the midst of campus life. Easy-going confidence, helpfulness, and interest in others is just a natural extension of their faith.
MINISTRY OF FELLOWSHIP
Clear about who they are in Jesus Christ and experienced in the rhythm of UMass student life, the peer ministers respectfully engage with others' interests and concerns. They make time to extend fellowship with other members of the campus community. This fellowship can take various shapes, such as: hosting friendly gatherings, being there for a discouraged first-year student, bringing people together in a time of need, or hosting mid- or end-semester study breaks.
MINISTRY OF CATECHESIS
Peer ministers also respond to others' interest in the Catholic faith by offering basic orientation events geared to college students. They also invite and encourage others to check out lectures, study groups, prayer and Sacramental events, and service opportunities.
FELLOWSHIPS for 2012-2013
For each academic year the Director of the Newman Catholic Center appoints or re-appoints four or more Peer Ministers to assist in campus ministry. Preferably, the ratio of male to female will be equal and will include two incoming juniors and two incoming seniors.
The peer ministers are compensated at the rate of $2000 to $2500 a semester. The peer ministers devote an average of 15 hours a week to the mission during the school year. Of course, allowances are made for family and academic commitments. During the summer and winter breaks the peer ministers receive a several-day intensive training session by members of the Newman Center staff.
During the semesters they are supervised and receive training by the program coordinator, who reports to the Director of the Center. They also enjoy mentorship with a member of the Newman team.
To be eligible to apply, students must be baptized and confirmed, practicing Catholics in good academic and judicial standing at the University, registered at the Newman Catholic Center, and with a demonstrated interest in reaching out to their fellow students. Candidates will be selected following an application process which includes an interview with Newman staff and members of the Newman Extended Community. Consider making an application for peer minister positions for the upcoming academic year. If you are interested in joining the team, contact Sr. Chris Clark, DHM, Campus Minister for Esselen Peer Ministry.
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September 2011
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University of Massachusetts Amherst.
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The Newman Catholic Center at UMass.
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Last update: Sat, 17 Dec 2011
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