Frequently Asked Questions

What is Catholic Campus Ministry?

Catholic Campus Ministry (lovingly referred to as CCM) is an outreach of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond to college students, faculty and staff at Old Dominion University. A full-time lay campus minister, Ms. Geri Jones, staffs the ministry. CCM provides opportunities for worship, community, service, and faith formation. It is open to the Old Dominion University community, whether or not one is Catholic.

Where can I go to Mass?

Mass is celebrated each Sunday of the Fall and Spring Semester on campus when classes are in session. Mass is at 5:30pm in the Hampton/Newport News Room of Webb Student Center. There are also two nearby parishes where you can worship.

How far away are the parishes?

Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church is at 6400 Newport Ave., about 3 miles from campus. Take Hampton Blvd. north to Little Creek Rd. Turn right. Make another right onto Newport Ave. The church will be on your left about ½ mile.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church is at the intersection of Princess Anne Rd. & Blow St., about 2 miles from campus. Take Hampton Blvd. south to Princess Anne Rd. Make a left. The church will be on your right about 3 blocks.

Who celebrates the Mass on campus?

Rev. Joseph F. Metzger, III is the pastor of the local parish. He celebrates most of our Masses. Other local priests assist him on Sundays he is not available.

Do you have Mass on Holy Days of Obligation?

We are not able to have a Mass on campus for Holy Days. We arrange carpools for students without cars and travel to nearby parish. If you need a ride to Mass for one of the Holy Days, please inquire 2-3 days before.

How can I receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation?

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered on campus once during the Advent season and again during Lent. It is available at other times by contacting Fr. Joe for an appointment. His email is office@blessed-sacrament.com.

How can I be involved?

There are many ways to be involved in the CCM community. You’re sure to find something that appeals to you and allows you to share your gifts with us.

We are all called to full and active participation in the liturgy. Gathered as the Body of Christ each Sunday we pray, we sing, we hear God’s word proclaimed, and share in the Eucharist. But good liturgy doesn’t just happen! We rely on students to serve as Lectors, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, Greeters, Mass Set-up and Breakdown volunteers, as well as Music Ministers.

If you are looking for a place to belong, to “fit in”, the CCM community is where you can meet people who often become life long friends. The CCM house is open during the week for you to study, socialize and serve. Come on over!

If you hunger to deepen your relationship with God, in addition to attending Mass on campus, you can participate in our faith sharing small group, our rosary group, retreats, and faith formation opportunities. There is also a small meditation room upstairs at the CCM house that you are welcome to visit anytime the CCM house is open.

If you have a heart for service, there are various projects throughout the year. Some are ongoing, such as our work with Catholic Worker House. Others are conducted annually, such as “Trick or Treat” for canned goods at Halloween, or the “Giving Tree” during Advent.

If you would like to get involved, check our calendar to find an event you’d like to attend. Sometimes, people are a little shy about coming to CCM events for the first time alone. Always feel free to bring a friend along. They don’t need to be Catholic to participate. If you have questions or want more detailed information about events, contact our campus minister, Geri geri@ccm.hrcoxmail.com and she will answer your questions and make sure you are made to feel welcome!

How do I join?

You can join our email list serve or Facebook group by clicking on the icons in the top right corner of the homepage.