Chaplaincy
The University of Notre Dame is committed to providing spiritual and pastoral support to all faculty and staff regardless of denomination or faith tradition. Inspired by the charism and spirituality of the Congregation of Holy Cross, University Chaplains are available to provide spiritual support through confidential one-on-one conversations, prayer, and personal or group reflection, and are experienced at accompanying others during times of personal struggle, illness, or loss.
To learn more, please contact University Chaplains Fr. Michael Mathews, C.S.C., at mmathew6@nd.edu or 574-631-5242 and Fr. Tim O’Connor, C.S.C., at toconno9@nd.edu or 574-631-3178.
Pastoral Conversations
Sometimes life can get challenging and burdensome and we need a trusted person to talk through what is on our minds and hearts. University Chaplains are here to help faculty and staff find God’s voice in the midst of the noise and busyness of our lives through the wisdom and hope our faith provides.
To schedule a pastoral conversation at your convenience, please email Fr. Michael Mathews at mmathew6@nd.edu.
Spiritual Direction
Spiritual Direction is the practice of entering into a conversation with an experienced guide with whom you can discuss your spiritual journey, relationship with God, and the integration of faith and life. Spiritual Direction can also help you become more aware of God’s presence and invitation. Regardless of your church affiliation, if you have a desire for a deeper relationship with God, want to develop your prayer practice, discern a decision, or find guidance in your faith life, no matter where you are on your spiritual journey, Spiritual Direction may be for you.
For more information about Spiritual Direction, please email Tami Schmitz at Schmitz.8@nd.edu.
Directory of Spiritual Directors for Faculty and Staff
Bereavement Support
Supporting members of the campus community following the death of a colleague or loved one is integral to the work of University Chaplains. While loss can be painful and sometimes difficult to navigate, finding ways to heal and move forward is often much easier when accompanied by a pastoral leader who can offer both comfort and guidance during times of grief and struggle. Bereavement support is available to all Notre Dame faculty and staff and open to all denominations, faith traditions, and backgrounds.
Following the Death of a Colleague
University Chaplains Fr. Michael Mathews, C.S.C., and Fr. Tim O’Connor, C.S.C., are available to provide immediate one-on-one and/or coordinated departmental support to colleagues and others impacted by the loss of a faculty or staff member. University Chaplains can also assist with the planning and implementation of Memorial Masses and prayer services in honor of a current member of the Notre Dame community. For more information, please contact Fr. Michael Mathews, C.S.C. (mmathew6@nd.edu or 574-631-5242), and/or Fr. Tim O’Connor, C.S.C. (toconno9@nd.edu or 574-631-3178).
Following the Death of a Loved One
University Chaplains Fr. Michael Mathews, C.S.C., and Fr. Tim O’Connor, C.S.C., are available to provide one-on-one pastoral support to faculty and staff who have experienced the death of a child, spouse, sibling, or parent. For more information, please contact Fr. Michael Mathews, C.S.C. (mmathew6@nd.edu or 574-631-5242), and/or Fr. Tim O’Connor, C.S.C. (toconno9@nd.edu or 574-631-3178).
Support Groups
Caregivers Support Group for Faculty and Staff
If you are a faculty or staff member who is currently caring for an aging parent, a spouse or relative, or child with special needs, please consider joining the Caregivers Support Group. This group offers the opportunity to connect with others; share struggles and information about resources in the local community; and listen to how others manage their own situations. The group is confidential and inclusive of all denominations, faith traditions, and backgrounds.
The Caregivers Support Group meets monthly from 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. in 301 Coleman-Morse Center (3rd floor across from the elevator and south stairwell).
The 2026 fall semester meetings will be held on Tuesday, September 15; Tuesday, October 20; Tuesday, November 17; and Tuesday, December 15.
For more information about the Caregivers Support Group, please contact Fr. Michael Mathews, C.S.C., at mmathew6@nd.edu or Maureen Baska at maureen.baska@nd.edu.