New Students
University life is full of new experiences — some exciting, some difficult — and both faith in God and a supportive faith community can help ease the transition. The Sheil Catholic Center is honored to welcome you whether you are an incoming, prospective, or returning student. The Catholic community at Northwestern is warm and welcoming and our space on the Evanston and Chicago campuses are favorite places for students to study, pray, and socialize.
Whether you are confident about your faith or have questions, your fellow students and the Sheil staff are excited to walk with you on your spiritual journey. No judgement. Come with your questions, come as you are. We look forward to meeting you!
Sign Up
If you don't already receive Sheil's emails, get connected with the community by signing up at the button below. You'll start receiving the weekly community e-newsletter with information about what is taking place among the Catholic community at Northwestern and opportunities to get more involved.
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Ignite
Meet other new students and the Catholic community at Northwestern on Monday, September 16th between 2:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. The event takes place at Sheil Catholic Center's Evanston campus and includes Mass, activities, and dinner. If your family member(s) is bringing you to campus, they are welcome to register for the family portion that begins at 5:00 p.m. and concludes at 9:00 p.m. Can't make the entire event? Come for what you can! Questions? Contact campus minister Tim Higgins at 847.328.4648 x15 or via email here.
Three Weeks of Welcome
Join other students during the first weeks of school for a variety of fun events to get to know the Catholic community at Northwestern.
Sheil's Evanston Campus
Monday, September 16 - Daily liturgy resumes Monday through Friday at 5:00 p.m. (learn more here)
Sunday, September 22 - Mass at 9:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday, September 24 - Prayers and Popsicles between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (first day of classes on Sheil's front lawn)
Wednesday, September 25 - Cheap Lunch at 12:00 p.m. (learn more here)
Wednesday, September 25 - Harbor at 8:00 p.m. (learn more here)
Sunday, September 29 - Blessing of the Backpacks at Sunday Mass at 9:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m., and 5:00 p.m., followed by coffee and donuts
Sunday, September 29 - Student Sunday Night Dinner after the 5:00 p.m. Mass at Sheil's Evanston campus
Thursday, October 3 - CaSA (Catholic Students Association for Undergrads) First Gathering at 8:00 p.m. (learn more here)
Sunday, October 6 - GYA (Graduate Students and Young Adults) First Gathering at 7:30 p.m. with a Bonfire at Lighthouse Beach (learn more here)
Sheil's Chicago Campus
Wednesday, August 28, 12:10 p.m. - Mass and Snacks on Northwestern's Chicago Campus today and every following Wednesday while classes are in session (learn more here)
During the Year
There is always something happening at Sheil. You'll discover opportunities for worship, faith formation, and service among a vibrant community of faith. Learn more about the Catholic Student Association (CaSA) for undergraduates, the Graduate Students and Young Adults (GYA) group, and Sheil's campus ministry for students studying on the Chicago campus.
Go Deeper in Faith
The Catholic Scholars Program is a two-year program for Northwestern's Catholic students that gives you an opportunity to dive deeper into your faith, ask tough questions, and explore being an adult in faith. If you are accepted to the program, you commit yourself to the four facets of scholarship, prayer, service, and leadership. Scholars receive a $5,000 stipend to pay for any costs associated with the requirements. Incoming students are eligible to apply. Learn more here.
Sheil has been a beyond incredible place for me to come out of my shell, make friends, become a leader and better scholar, and, most importantly, more attuned to the beauty of God's presence in the world and in my life.