Christopher's Testimony

"I lived in the men's house, so it was very convenient for hosting events with many of our catholic friends, with everyone being on the same page on a moral level (no underage drinking, drugs, sex, etc.), so it was a great and healthy environment with a lot of encouragement and life. Being around good people is truly refreshing for the soul and mind, so in that sense, it definitely made my experience at NDSU much happier than it could have been otherwise. Another way it contributed to my experience is that the guys I lived with are some of my best friends now, and so the lasting friendships with solid Catholic people was also a great benefit. Finally, I would have to say that the location was also very convenient. We were able to get to Mass, adoration, or other Newman center events very easily, and as you may have grasped already when living immersed in such a rich community, it really enriches your life as well. 
Why students should choose faith-based housing? I would say one of the main reasons is the good healthy friendships that come from having religious roommates who care about their souls too. It helps with accountability as well as support when the going gets tough. A second reason to live with other people of faith is that the church is a community. We were not meant to be alone, and when surrounded by other people who are on fire for the faith, it builds up the fire within you as well, strengthening you to live out your faith with passion and purpose, knowing that you're not alone in this world that is so anti-religious. 
I would recommend faith-based housing to anyone and everyone, especially if you want to grow in your faith and learn to love. Also, it's great for anyone who wants to learn more about what living in a community of faith is like. On a final note, I would say it is important to know yourself. It may not be for everyone, but if you feel like the Lord is calling you to do it, go for it! And if you want to live with people that will hold you accountable, to keep you strong in your faith, to go to mass with, to pray with, and to live holy lives with, then I don't think there is a better place to do that than faith-based housing."

- Christopher Yanta
Newman Center Faith-Based Housing Alumnus. Christopher studied Mechanical Engineering at NDSU from 2013-2016 and served as a Peer Minister. He is now a Seminarian for the Archdiocese of Saint Paul-Minneapolis!