BU Catholic Center chaplain leaves role to join seminary in Brighton

By Matt Rocheleau, Town Correspondent

The former chaplain of the Catholic Center at Boston University has left his leading role there to join the faculty at St. John’s Seminary in Brighton, officials said.

Msgr. John McLaughlin Jr. made the move this month at the request Cardinal Seán Patrick O’Malley, Archbishop of Boston, according to an announcement from the center where McLaughlin served for two years.

“Msgr. John McLaughlin’s love of students, willingness to share his talents and work to improve the Catholic Center will characterize his legacy here,” said a statement from Denis Nakkeeran, president of the Catholic Student Association. “His sacrifice offered us a great example of the Christian life. We remain grateful to him and wish him well at St. John’s.”

McLaughlin will serve as Head of Spiritual Direction at St. John’s Seminary, directing about 25 men and coordinating with other students at the seminary.

“Although this change in personnel brings new challenges, Msgr. McLaughlin will serve the Church’s future well at St. John’s,” said a statement from the Catholic Center at BU. “In this new role, he will contribute to the formation of priests from a number of American Dioceses.”

“During his brief tenure at Boston University, Msgr. McLaughlin transformed the physical and spiritual landscapes through his dedication to students,” the statement said. “Often found at Terrier athletic contests and engaging students in conversation, Msgr. McLaughlin performed a ministry of presence.”

“He instituted the custom of praying the Liturgy of the Hours and centered the Newman House on daily prayer and the sacraments,” the statement added. “He oversaw and contributed to the restoration of the 19th century Newman House, including a complete renovation of the basement. These improvements allowed for a greater number of students to enjoy the center’s coffee room, study spaces and chapel. In addition to spending time with students, he offered daily Mass for the community, administered the sacraments with joy and counseled many.

Matt Rocheleau can be reached at mjrochele@gmail.com. Looking for more coverage of area colleges and universities? Go to our Your Campus pages.