C atholic Studies is not only an academic project, but an ecclesial project as well. It draws life from the Church and it serves the Church. Regionally, we work with Latino ministries, Catholic schools, and ongoing formation for clergy, to name a few. Nationally and internationally, we collaborate with various offices and programs of the Church. One of the great joys of this ecclesial project is our partnership with Saint John Vianney College Seminary (SJV). Since our beginning in 1993, Catholic Studies has played an important role in educating undergraduate men who are discerning the priesthood at SJV. In return, these men bring a witness of faith and a spirit of friendship in Christ to the academic and community life of Catholic Studies. Grounded in the complementarity of faith and reason, our interdisciplinary courses help a seminarian integrate his studies in literature, history, science, art, philosophy, and theology. This fosters a unity of knowledge that helps him to see the role of faith in all areas of life. In addition, our internationally recognized faculty are united by a deep love for the depth and breadth of
the Catholic Tradition, providing all of our students, including seminarians, an academic community that is deeply engaged, faithful, and intellectual. The combination of a double major in Catholic Studies and philosophy, in addition to strong formation, makes SJV one of the most highly regarded college seminaries in the world. Currently, 20 dioceses send their college seminarians to SJV. For many bishops, Catholic Studies is an important part of that decision. While many SJV men become priests, others discern their vocations as husbands, fathers, teachers, businessmen, doctors, lawyers, and entrepreneurs. Regardless of their vocational call, pursuing a major in Catholic Studies is an opportunity to join a community of learners for an interdisciplinary exploration of more than 2,000 years of Catholic thought and culture. We hope you enjoy this issue of Lumen in which you will read about this ongoing partnership between Catholic Studies and SJV. It is an important part of our mission, the broader Catholic Studies movement, and the renewal of Catholic higher education.
JOHN F. BOYLE, CHAIRMAN DEPARTMENT OF CATHOLIC STUDIES
MICHAEL NAUGHTON, DIRECTOR CENTER FOR CATHOLIC STUDIES
Lumen Spring/Summer 2024 Page 1
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