What does Catholic life look like on a secular college campus—and how does God meet young adults right where they are?

On this episode of Talking Catholic, hosts Kari Janisse and Mike Walsh begin with a conversation with Fr. Thomas Piro, newly ordained priest and parochial vicar at Saint Bridget University Parish, about his first months accompanying students at Rowan University’s Newman House. Fr. Piro reflects on the joy of campus ministry, the importance of priestly presence at a public university, and how everyday encounters—from rosaries on campus to spontaneous conversations in the student center—can open doors to evangelization, vocation discernment, and deeper faith.

In the second half of the episode, the focus shifts to a powerful “mountaintop” experience as Rowan Catholic Campus Ministry members Gloria Schulz and Joseph Midiri, joined by Fr. Stephen Robbins, share highlights from the FOCUS SEEK conference held in early January. Drawing thousands of young adults from across the country, SEEK offered days filled with Mass, confession, adoration, keynote talks, and breakout sessions designed to present the Gospel in its fullness. The group reflects on the joy of worshiping alongside thousands of peers, the impact of men’s and women’s sessions, the energy of communal prayer, and the personal moments of grace that continue to shape their faith back on campus.

Together, these conversations paint a hopeful picture of a Church alive among young adults—seeking, listening, and responding to God’s call in the midst of college life.

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