Over 40 years ago, the various faculties of Consortium Schools joined for the first Convocation to build collegial networks and explore themes of teaching and theology.   On September 29, the 42nd Faculties’ Convocation explored Ecology and Theology at the Catholic University of America, with workshops by faculty colleagues, an address by a leading eco-theologian, Dr. Jame Schaefer, and in Faculty Area Groups that met over dinner.

Dr. Schaefer offered a vision of the human as “Virtuous Cooperator” with creation and God, by drawing on Thomas Aquinas’ understanding of the virtues.  She also challenged all of us to mine our theological traditions to reshape our theological understandings of human nature.

Faculty members from 9 of our member schools and institutes built networks, discussed their colleague’s work, and planned for future professional development events.   Thanks to CUA for providing such hospitality,  to Joe Bush, Beth Norcross, and Bill Dinges for their fine workshops, and to Dr. Schaefer for her fine address.