The Newman Community Houses began in 1983 by Father Vincent Walsh with the establishment of the St. Joseph House. Since then, other houses have been established patterned on the St. Joseph House model. These houses have evolved through the initiatives of members of the Newman Community, as well as the wider Catholic Community of San Luis Obispo. We believe this development to be the work of the Holy Spirit in our midst.
The vision for these Communities is as follows:
- That students live as faithful witnesses of the Catholic Christian (practicing Catholic) way of life through the sharing of their lives and prayer together.
- That students be encouraged to come together as a community to worship at the Sunday College Mass and be actively involved in Newman activities and service.
- That students be faithful to each other in the living of their house Covenants / Mission Statements.
- That the houses become centers of hospitality for other students seeking friendship and community.
- That each house work to create an atmosphere of friendship, respect, and trust in their neighborhood.
- That each house member actively participates in their houses responsibility toward the Newman Center.
- St. Joseph House: Spring Retreat
- Faith House: Fall Retreat
- Casa Maria: Social Activities
- Casa Romero: Custodial
To this end, Newman commits to serve the members of the community houses in the following ways:
- Provide in-service for community development by:
- Quarterly gatherings/workshops to set up and reflect on the community life experience.
- Participate in and/or facilitate house meetings as requested by the members or by the owners/property managers.
- Serve as arbitrator when the community faces difficulties.
- Provide resources for the development of community
- Join in community life prayer and celebrations as the community desires.
- Assist with the Application and Interview Process by:
- Coordinating with the owner/manager regarding openings, new member applications, subleases (when applicable).
- Advertising openings as needed or desired by the current members.
- Explaining the Covenant relationship of the members to potential members.
- Helping with screening, interviewing and the selection of potential members.
