12. PRESENCE OF GOD IN THE WORLD

The physical presence of a Catholic Church building both inspires and imposes on all who see it to take a moment to reflect on the spiritual realities it represents. This deep response is nearly impossible to resist. Even the most hardened atheist is softened at least a little by Rome’s churches and the memory of why those martyrs died in love for an unseen treasure of faith that was nurtured within the walls of those buildings.   

The land site for the new St. Teresa’s church sits on an elevated plot on the north edge of the UNK campus. If an elevated bell tower is added to the structure, it will be visible for miles from both east and west along Highway 30, and the bells heard all across campus.   

The intention is to create a facility that will be irresistible for all students to stop in and make a visit. Perhaps for a quick pick-up game in the courtyard or to sit for a while around the indoor/outdoor fireplace. Maybe to swing on the front porch or enjoy a free coffee and fresh baked cookie inside. They can bring their studies to one of the small nooks or study in a group in one of the conference rooms. And in the midst of all of it all…just behind one swinging door…is the welcoming peace of Jesus in the chapel, waiting to speak to their hearts.