On January 19, the Indiana University football team achieved a historic victory by winning the national championship. After decades of challenges and disappointments, this win brought immense joy and hope, showing that change is always possible, no matter how bleak things may seem.
As the pastor at St. Paul Catholic Center, I had the incredible opportunity to witness this journey alongside my colleague, Father Ben Keller. Following the team’s victory, we celebrated with the players, eager to congratulate the Catholic athletes we had come to know.
Amid the excitement, I was grateful when Fernando Mendoza, our vocal Catholic quarterback, approached us on his way to the stage. That brief interaction felt like a highlight amid a whirlwind of celebrations.
Less than a month later, on February 18, something remarkable happened again. Over 3,500 students attended Ash Wednesday Mass at St. Paul’s, nearly doubling the number from two years prior. This surge represents a significant shift in our community, with more than 150 students joining our O.C.I.A. program this year, compared to just 31 last year. Sunday Mass attendance has skyrocketed from about 500 to over 1,300 students.
Across the nation, this trend isn’t unique to Indiana University. Catholic universities and Newman Centers have also reported increased attendance and conversions. At the recent Seek Conference, many campus ministers shared similar stories of record-setting Mass attendance and rising interest in the faith.
Students today are seeking something deeper. In conversations with them, I’ve noticed a yearning for the sacraments and community, driven by a desire to connect with Jesus. The National Eucharistic Revival has played a significant role in this renewal, showing how God’s grace can inspire genuine faith in young people.
Bishop Andrew Cozzens recently noted, “We have to let Jesus do the heavy lifting” in our evangelization efforts. Many of this year’s converts shared how they felt a profound sense of purpose and belonging after attending Mass and experiencing the Eucharist. Their testimonies reflect a journey of discernment, often beginning with the simple act of being invited by a friend.
Our work at St. Paul’s extends beyond just offering a beautiful Mass. As Dominican friars, we focus on building genuine relationships and faith formation. We’re committed to teaching the importance of community, authenticity, and mutual love among our students. In a world filled with loneliness and confusion, they crave connections that feel real.
Moreover, our ministry is adapting to the needs of these young individuals. They appreciate the Catholic Church’s teachings and seek an understanding that’s both profound and applicable to today’s challenges. This desire for deeper knowledge is evident in the growth of our formation programs, which weave together theology, service, and community support.
Our students often express gratitude for the personal connections they make with their priests. Seeing us as relatable figures on their own faith journeys can be inspiring. Real-life examples of faith—in all its struggles—help demystify the pursuit of holiness and encourage them to embrace their own paths.
As we continue to witness this revival, it’s clear the Church, much like the Indiana football team, is experiencing a remarkable comeback. There’s a newfound excitement and hope among students, reflecting a collective journey of faith and connection. After Ash Wednesday, I reached out to Fernando to share our success story. He humbly replied, “It’s the Jesus Christ effect!”
This transformation, both in sports and faith, signifies that great change is not only possible; it is happening right now.
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Catholic Identity,Evangelization,Higher Education
