Catholic Leadership
Assistant Chaplain
Father Six
I am Fr. Sixmund Nyabenda Henry, a diocesan priest ordained in 2001 in the Diocese of Rulenge-Ngara, Tanzania, East Africa. Over the years, I have been blessed to serve in various pastoral roles, including as a pastor in several parishes, where I guided and shepherded the faithful. My ministry included responsibilities in the Cathedral and the Department of Communication, where I contributed to spreading the message of the Gospel through media and communication channels. Throughout my time in Tanzania, I was deeply committed to pastoral care, guiding the spiritual lives of the communities I served. Whether through preaching, administering sacraments, or leading community outreach, my work focused on fostering faith, building relationships, and helping people grow in their understanding and practice of the Catholic faith. This dedication to ministry continues to shape my work as I serve the Church both locally and internationally.
From 2006 to 2011, I served in the Diocese of Burlington, Vermont, for five years before returning to Tanzania. In 2022, my bishop assigned me to serve in the Diocese of Peoria, USA, where I have ministered in several parishes. Currently, I serve as a Parochial Vicar at St. Paul Parish in Macomb and St. Rose Parish in Rushville, as well as an assistant Chaplain at the Newman Center, where I support campus ministry. As an assistant Chaplain at the Newman Center, I have the privilege of ministering to college students, guiding them in their faith journey in their lives especially during Mass and
adoration. The Newman Center is a vibrant hub where students can explore and deepen their relationship with God, find community, and seek spiritual support. Hoping to work together as we endeavor our commitment to God. In addition to my pastoral and development work, I teach the Ordo Initiationis Christianae Adultorum (OICA) program, guiding new members who wish to join the Catholic faith. I also
teach religion to first through sixth-grade students at St. Paul Catholic School. Outside of my ministry, I enjoy playing and watching soccer, which provides a wonderful way to relax and
connect with others.
Newman Chaplain
Father Marc
I am Father Marc NKULU NGOMBANDA, a priest from the missionary order named SOCIETY OF AFRICAN MISSIONS (SMA). Originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo, a former Belgium colony. I was ordained a catholic priest since May 10, 2015 and I have worked
previously in Lagos Nigeria, Kinshasa DR Congo, New Jersey and Peoria, USA. Since July first I was appointed parochial Vicar for St Paul Macomb; St Rose Rushville and Saint Francis Newman Center. It’s a pleasure for me to work with you in the Newman Center, ministering to College students is a privilege for me. I hope to have a good time with you all.
Newman Center Ministry
St. Francis of Assisi Newman Center Coordinator
Beate Wilson
Being able to share the Catholic faith with young adults at our Newman center has been absolutely amazing. One of the greatest blessings is to be a witness to see college students deepening their Catholic faith while developing a new or refreshing their lost relationship with God. At our center we offer various faith, social, or community outreach activities for college students throughout the year. Join us for some Faith, Fun, and Fellowship!
Lex Orandi Lex Credendi
St. Francis of Assisi community Bible Study Leader
Susan Courter
Newman Center Bible Study 2024-2025 This semester we will be delving into the Gospel of John and the unique perspective that this Gospel offers on who Jesus is. We’ll be giving special attention to the claims that Jesus made about Himself and the impact those claims have on our relationship with Him.
I am very much looking forward to sharing with you and learning from you as the Holy Spirit guides our devotional time together. Please always feel free to email me with any questions or concerns you have. The peace of Christ be with you!
Susan Courter
sscourter@hotmail.com
Newman Faculty Advisor
Pete Jorgensen
Hello, I am a full professor in the School of Communication and Media at Western Illinois University where I currently serve as the School Director. I recently served as the Interim Associate Dean of the College of Fine Arts and Communication and served as the Coordinator of the Graduate Program in Communication for over 10 years. I also served as the Co-Chair of the National Communication Association’s Training and Development Division. I primarily teach graduate and undergraduate courses in organizational communication, although I also teaches courses in communication research methods, persuasion, communication training and development, and small group communication.
I regularly attend the 10:00 mass on Sundays at St. Paul Church where I usually serve as a Eucharistic Minister. I am honored to serve as the faculty advisor for the Newman Center.
Newman Center Student Disciples
Newman Student Worker and Newman student Board President
Annaliese
Hello, my name is Annaliese Goc and I am a freshman at WIU majoring in Agricultural Education. Growing up Catholic, I understand the importance of my relationship with God, and the Newman Center has helped develop that relationship. I was given the opportunity to work at the Newman Center while still in high school and do not regret taking it. Throughout my time working here, I have established a healthier relationship with my faith and it has given me the opportunity to meet many great people.
Newman Liturgical Student leader
Amarachi
I am from Geneseo, Illinois. I just started my freshman year at Western and am currently majoring in Broadcast Production.
internationMal student ambassador and music Coordinator
Marietta
Newman Student Worker and Newman Board Student Treasurer
Connor
I am Connor Rinearson, a junior biology education major from Chicago. I was raised Catholic and am excited to work at the Newman and meet new people.
Newman Student worker and Newman Student Board Secretary
Keaton
I am from Geneseo, Illinois. I just started my freshman year at Western and am currently majoring in Broadcast Production.
Newman student worker and international student amabassor
Arnold
My name is Arnold Mugisha, and I am an International Student Ambassador at the Newman Centre. I’m originally from Uganda, and have resided in Canada and the USA, which has intensified my enthusiasm for discovering various cultures. I am excited to assist WIU students in adapting to university life, creating a solid network, and making the Newman center a spiritual home for you, too.
Newman Student Worker and Newman board vice president
Lydia
Hello, my name is Lydia Bennett. I will be a sophomore at WIU majoring in Ag business and minoring in animal science and pre-MBA. I also run cross country and track here. I am from Auburn, Indiana, about 7 hours away, but I fell in love with the ag program and the amazing team chemistry. I was raised Catholic and am excited to see how the Newman Center can help strengthen my catholic faith and the journey ahead!
Newman Student Worker
Brady
Hello, I am Brady Baca.
I am currently a History Major at WIU and am a native Macomb resident, I appreciate all the Newman Center has done for my active faith.”