McGrath Institute Blog

In the heart of God Quad, you encounter the Sacred Heart of Jesus statue. If you look at a map, you may even notice the walking paths actually form the shape of a heart with the statue at its base. This is not just a geographic reality, but a theological truth as well. Jesus is at the heart of everything we do and the foundation of all knowledge. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

Notre Dame, our Mother
Tender, strong and true,
Proudly in the heavens
Gleams thy gold and blue.

“Papa, what’s that fancy church?”

My toddler likes to look at pictures of our wedding, especially as a stalling tactic ahead of naps and bedtime.

“That’s a very special church at Notre Dame, where Mama and Papa went to school. That’s also where Mama and Papa got married.”

“Oh. I like that special church.”

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Whether as a drive-by or as your intentional destination, chances are that, if you have ever been to the University of Notre Dame, you have been captivated at one point or another by the glistening light of candles that cast their shadows upon the inside walls of the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes. Or, perhaps your attention goes directly to the statue tucked discreetly inside a relatively small niche on the upper right side of the striking stone structure.

Corby Hall is the primary residence for the priests and brothers who work at the University of Notre Dame. It is our home in the heart of campus. Most members of Corby Hall actually live in student residence halls, which means that Corby Hall is not a house in the typical sense. Instead of a shared roof, what brings the men of Corby Hall together is our practice of having prayer and meals in common. It is through our worship and fellowship that we are restored and renewed for our ministry at Notre Dame.