Amarillo College Ranger

Issue date: 10/19/06 Section: Front Page

Media Credit: Maddisun Fowler [Click to enlarge]

Catholic Campus Ministries has been an active part of Amarillo College for two years. Father Tony Neusch, CCM chaplain, helped start the organization.

"It provides a forum for Catholic students to be with other Catholic students," Neusch said.

"The meetings are Tuesdays at noon in the Badger Den of the CUB. This year's theme is, 'Ask me why I am Catholic,' with students and faculty speaking to this very important question."

Suzanne Detten, a secondary education major with an emphasis in math, has been part of CCM since last year.

"I really like coming here because it's kind of like a family," Detten said. "I can come and have a lot of fun.

"I can say anything; it's like my home away from home. It is a good way to meet and get to know people who like the same things I do. It is a place to be myself."

Cherie Clifton, an AC counselor, is one of the sponsors of the Catholic Student Association.

Robert Austin, associate dean of student services, is the other sponsor.

"I would like for people to know that we are here," Clifton said.

"This is just our second year, so we are trying to get going. We are very elastic right now in being able to form our mission and our projects that we are going to do."

William Neusch, a general studies major, has joined CCM this year.

"I like it because it gives me a place to converse with other Catholics and with other people who have the same beliefs as I do, and I think it really reinforces my faith," he said.

"It is kind of like a little energy boost during the week. I look forward to be able to do different activities."

To William Neusch, the activities are only a perk of being involved in the organization.

"When you're involved with other groups, of course there are going to be different activities and things you're going to be doing, but this particular one, you're with people with the same beliefs and of the same faith," he said.

A person does not have to be Catholic to attend a CCM meeting.

"I would really encourage people to come," William Neusch said.

"Even if you're not Catholic, it's an open discussion. We are willing to talk about anything."

"Catholic Campus Ministries was a very important part of my discernment for the priesthood," said Fr. Tony Neusch.

"I would hope that this opportunity to be with and around other Catholic students would help other people find their own vocational call."

For more information about CCM, call 655-4345.

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