Summer 2010

Hungry? If you stop by Wehrle Hall often, you won’t be. Resident campus minister Brent Heckman has been serving up snacks along with a sense of community since he arrived on campus two years ago. “I’m known for my cookies after Sunday Mass,” he said. Wehrle Hall, a freshmen residence located on West Sixth Street, is named in honor of Msgr.

Joseph J. “Doc” Wehrle. He played an integral part in the founding of Cathedral College, the University’s predecessor, and served as the institution’s first president from 1933-1956.

Describe how you incorporate your interest in cooking and baking into your role as resident campus minister.

I do a “Night Prayer and Apple Crisp” with each floor in the fall semester, using my own recipe that I have adapted from others over the years. At the end of each year, I also host a “Wing and a Prayer” gathering. We pray together as a group in the lobby of Wehrle and enjoy hot wings and more. Each year, more than 50 students have gathered for prayer, and more usually stop by as they pass through.

In what other ways do you interact with students living in your hall? Check all that apply.  Monthly Mass in the Mary, Seat of Wisdom Chapel  Fall cookout at Presque Isle State Park  Educational programs on topics like finances and fitness  Presentations by student faith-sharing groups List three ways resident campus ministers make a difference.

1) We help Campus Ministry have a presence and bring faith directly to students.

2) We provide opportunities for prayer, sharing of meals and community building.

3) We want to create a positive living environment where students feel recognized and respected.

Which of the following is your favorite on-campus food?  Make-your-own waffles from Beyer Cafeteria  Steak sandwich on grilled Italian bread from Doc’s Landing  Specialty coffee from InterMetzo Café True or False: Food is capable of bringing people together?

True – I’ve seen students experience great joy in sharing meals together, and that creates an atmosphere that makes it easier for people to open up, socialize and share their faith.

10 gannon magazine summer 2010