Our Story

The Newman Center, also known as Our Lady of Wisdom Catholic Church

In 1946, the Newman Center at the University of Maine was established for Catholic students, faculty, staff, and families. The original building was a former restaurant and log cabin on the opposite side of College Avenue. The current Newman Center at 83 College Avenue in Orono held its dedication in 1969. Named after St. John Henry Newman, canonized as a saint by Pope Francis in 2019.

Born in England in 1801, Newman grew up as a member of the Anglican Church. He attended Oxford, where he eventually became a tutor. Ordained an Anglican priest, he served the religious community at Oxford. In his 40s, he began to look more critically at his church. He came to the belief that it did not go deep enough in the tradition of the early Church. After a period of deep reflection, prayer, and study, he made his profession of faith as a Roman Catholic, eventually being ordained a priest and raised to the position of Cardinal.

The affiliation of his name with Catholic communities at colleges and universities around the world is very appropriate. Not only because of his time at Oxford but because in later years, he went to Dublin, Ireland, to establish the Catholic University of Ireland. Also, his essay, “The Idea of a University,” won him great acclaim. Furthermore, Newman’s theological works prompted many to consider him as an important hand in setting the stage for the renewal of the Church in the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965).

Under the patronage and guidance of Mary, Our Lady of Wisdom, we invite you to participate in the mission of Jesus. Bring faith and love to this secular campus by donating to the Rebuild His Church Campaign. Investing in the lives of young people today is a lasting gift to the Church! Knowledge. Both in the academic realm and spiritual life, it provides a way for students to flourish here and bring the light of Christ with them wherever they go.