The Msgr. Joseph Jessing Conference Center

History of the Building | Facility Rental and Catering | Facility Specifications

The interior of this conference and education center on the seminary campus reflects the tradition and spirit of the Pontifical College Josephinum: Stained glass, stenciling and extensive woodwork mirror the intricate detail of the main seminary building. The Josephinum Coat of Arms, reproduced in a terrazzo design, decorates the lobby floor.

The Jessing Center houses two large adjoining conference rooms, a small meeting room, an audio-visual control room, lobby and display areas.

The center provides improved meeting space for many programs of the various departments and agencies of the Diocese of Columbus. Space is also provided for support activities, including academic and theological symposiums, lectures, and similar events.

History of the Building

The building was constructed in 1938 and served as the Josephinum's library until 1982, when the space was no longer adequate to house the seminary's growing number of library holdings. The A.T. Wehrle Memorial Library was then moved to its current location, leaving the original library building vacant for multi-purpose use by both the Josephinum and other community groups. Over time, the Josephinum identified a need for a modern facility to serve as an educational resource and to provide a means of outreach to the greater Columbus area. Renovation of the building began in September 1996 and was completed the following year.

The Jessing Center was named in honor of the seminary's founder, Msgr. Joseph Jessing, who established the Josephinum in 1888.

Facility Rental and Catering

To enhance our commitment to the larger community and help offset operating costs, the center is available on a rental basis to civic, professional and business groups. The center is also available for private use on a limited basis. All catering services for the Jessing Center are provided by the Josephinum's food service.

Facility Specifications

Mirolo Hall: 2880 square-feet; capacity of 190 persons
Schott Hall: 1800 square-feet; capacity of 120 persons
Mirolo Hall and Schott Hall adjoin to provide theater-style seating for 300 or banquet-style seating for 250.
Och Room: 580 square-feet; capacity of 38 persons
Lobby And Display Areas: 1400 square-feet

Audio Visual Capabilities
Two 16-foot projection screens
LCD video projector
Two slide projectors
Video presentation stand
Overhead projector
Video monitor/tv
Two video tape recorders
Camcorder Sound system with 16-channel mixer
Cassette tape and compact disk player
Remote projection capabilities for video and data Internet connection through fibre optic cabling and a full T-1 data line.

Easily accessible restrooms, public telephones, convenient parking, handicapped accessibility.

For rental rates, catering and additional information about the Jessing Center, please contact Mass Appeal Dining Services, Inc., at 614-985-2215 or by email.