Catholic Campus Ministry Newsletter 2024 Issue 2

The McGraw Legacy: 5 Catholic Hokie Siblings

“It’s not often you get to go to college with one sibling let alone two. My freshman year, when Tim was a senior, holds some of my favorite memories as brothers. Caeli coming to Tech and then getting to make memories with her was the cherry on top. My time at Tech showed me the importance of choosing to make God the most important person in one’s life. If he is number one, everything else falls into place. It was countless friends, acquaintances, and student leaders at Newman who set this example for me: God first.” - Joe, Class of 2022

“My two older brothers were super involved in the CCM at Virginia Tech. I attended VT with my older brother Joe and my younger brother Dan. I really enjoyed getting to share in the sacraments with them, play volleyball at the Newman Center, and go on rosary walks around campus. The CCM had a profound impact on my relationship with my brothers. I transferred in my sophomore year and wanted to meet some friends that shared my same love for Jesus. I began attending daily Mass which became part of my daily routine. That is where I built so many Catholic friendships, which I valued most. The community fostered growth in faith, hope, and charity. These virtues are at the core of being a Catholic. The CCM showed me the importance of trusting in God, relying on his strength, and loving “I was the first of my siblings to attend Tech. It was exciting to see others in my family follow in my footsteps, making our connection to VT even more meaningful. Being part of such an active and thriving campus ministry was a privilege. Over the years, it’s been incredible to witness its growth and lasting impact. I first felt drawn to the Newman community as a high school senior. Seeing students in line for confession at War Memorial Chapel deeply moved me. It was clear that students here weren’t just going through the motions - they were actively pursuing their faith and frequenting the sacraments.” - Tim, Class of 2019

Top (left to right): Tim, Joe, and Danny Bottom (left to right): Caeli and John The McGraw Family

“It was such a blessing to go to Mass with Caeli and now John everyday. I value daily Mass and the strong community aspect of CCM. That is something I will never forget or want to lose. Daily Mass added such a peace and steadiness to my life, which is something I really needed. The strong community was something that made life such a joy. Knowing there was always a place I could go and something I could do was a blessing to have. I also value the people I met and all the memories I have made through the ministry. I think these experiences will influence my future because they leave long-lasting impressions on you as a person. With the things I’ve learned, the people I met, and the beliefs I formed, I hope to continue becoming a better man.” - Danny, Class of 2025 “ My siblings who came before me inspired me to get involved with the CCM@VT. I remember they always came home from college on break, introducing me to some of their new friends from the ministry or telling me stories of fun adventures. Having to constantly choose to make my faith stronger without anyone else’s input is definitely a different type of challenge. However, because of the availability of Mass, confession, and Bible study, this is possible. In this way, I am very thankful to God for supplying all of us with this wonderful CCM that has increased our faith little by little each day. “ - John, Class of 2027

him above all things.” - Caeli, Class of 2024