Stacey May
This fall, the Mount welcomed Father Justin Gough as the new campus minister.
Fr. Justin came to the Mount because Archbishop Lori asked if he would be willing to take on something different: campus ministry. This was a surprise to Fr. Justin, but after some thought Fr. Justin determined it would be a good decision to come to the Mount.
Fr. Justin’s previous assignment was at the Cathedral of Mary our Queen in Baltimore. He served as the chaplain to the grade school, going to religion classes and being around students. He had a taste of chaplaincy that way, he also got to interact with students from Loyola University. The Mount is his first full-time chaplain placement.
Fr. Justin is enjoying his time at the Mount so far. “It’s an amazing place. I’m still learning a ton about the history, the people, and all those that make the Mount what it is. I’ve definitely found myself at home very quickly.”
When asked what his goal was for campus ministry, he replied, “Campus ministry is ultimately about walking with people on their spiritual journey, wherever they are. Even if they don’t feel like they’re on a spiritual journey, we believe they are on one. We want to walk with them, get to know them, and see what they might need from us to grow in their relationship with God, and to find more meaning and purpose in their life.”
With Fr. Justin, you may also see his one-year-old corgi, Floyd. “He’s a good boy, he’s a little stubborn, but I’m stubborn too, so we’re a good fit for each other.”
Raising Floyd was a difficult and exciting chapter in his life, but he is happy that Floyd is now full-grown.
Fr. Justin went to Providence College for undergrad and his first part of seminary. He completed his theology studies in Rome at the Seminary at North American College and The Angelicum.
When he’s not in the campus ministry office, Fr. Justin loves to spend time outside biking and taking Floyd on hikes. He also enjoys music, going to concerts, and making music himself.
Father Justin’s office is in Campus Ministry in Lower McGowan. “I’m here for everybody, and I’m always happy to meet with anybody who needs to talk about something.”
Thank you for your service to the Mount community Father Justin! We are so glad to have you here.
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