Anita Magovern

Chaplain and Advisor to the Catholic Community

Office
Eliot House
413-538-2787
Email Anita Magovern

I believe that there are many paths to God and in this sense I foster and support all students in their spiritual search no matter what their background. As Catholic Chaplain, I especially nourish the faith life of the Catholic community here on campus, with particular attention to Eucharist, building community, spiritual direction, and developing strong Catholic feminine leadership in our Church through the ten member Newman Student Leadership Board. I am passionate about linking students of faith to service in the outside community, believing that service is a mandate of the Gospel, and that experiential involvement is the most important way to evoke social awareness and change.

I love the combination of prayer, ritual, and small group sharing, so I foster strong student support groups when they are needed. In the fall of 2008, an International Mass and Jazz Mass were initiated bringing our community together for diverse prayer and music. The student leadership and I also initiate programs like Lenten Lunch to foster prayer and discussion. Senior seminars are another major highlight, in which graduating seniors in the Catholic group write their own sermons to reflect on their journeys and instill a legacy with future generations of Catholic Mount Holyoke students.

My own background in theological, pastoral, and spiritual direction graduate studies at Loyola University in Chicago, as well as my twenty-two years spent as a Mary Knoll sister doing service work in Tanzania, make being a Chaplain at MHC a great fit and a privileged experience."

Anita says that expression of faith through lifestyle and action enforces one's belief system, and that no matter where we stand, we are beloved beings.

Education

B.A., Chestnut Hill College
M.S., Georgetown University
M.A., Loyola University, Chicago