MACOMB — With Western Illinois University’s homecoming weekend corresponding with the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the Newman Center on campus bearing the saint’s name is the place to be Oct. 3-4.

Newman alumni, current students, parents and friends are invited to take part in a series of weekend activities, according to Dr. Jonathan Day, Newman Center director.

The St. Francis of Assisi Newman Center is sponsoring a float in the WIU homecoming parade, which begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3, on the Macomb Square. Following the parade, the Newman Center is hosting an open house from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1401 W. University Drive. Beverages and snacks will be provided.

On Sunday, the Newman community will join a Respect Life Chain at Chandler Park from 2 to 3 p.m. Mass will be celebrated at the center at 5 p.m., followed by a Franciscan Italian Dinner. For more information or to make a dinner reservation, contact Day at (309) 387-3989 or wiucatholic@gmail.com.