Catholic Heritage Series
Report from Rome: Did the church listen to women and LGBTQ Catholics at the synod?
Heidi Schlumpf, Journalist
Tuesday, November 14, 2023
Reception and Lecture
Heidi Schlumpf, NCR senior correspondent with three decades of experience, has covered religion, social justice, and women's issues extensively. Formerly NCR's executive editor and national correspondent, she focused on church finances, sex abuse, and politics. Schlumpf has contributed to major outlets and taught journalism at Aurora University.
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Accessing the Imagination for Hope and Healing
James Heft, SM
Wednesday, February 21, 2024
Reception and Lecture
Exploring the role of Catholic and Jesuit thought in addressing global polarization and violence, this event examined the potential for healing, inclusion, and reconciliation through the intellectual and moral resources of a Catholic university.
Fr. James L. Heft S.M., a Marianist, serves as Scholar in Residence at the University of Dayton and founded Institute for Advanced Catholic Studies at USC. His recent works focus on religious non-affiliation and the future of Catholic education.
oetic Imagination of a al Mystic: evertov’s rs in the orthwest
evin Burke, SJ
uesday, May 21, 2024 eception and Lecture
enise Levertov's final poetic phase took place in Seattle ter converting to Catholicism in 1989 and undertaking the piritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. Recognized as a major ost-WWII American poet, her work reflects deep political nd spiritual themes.
former Dean of the eology and current ogy and Vice President of at Regis University, oks, notably on Ignacio
. He is finalizing a book ’s theological poetry.
Interreligious Dialogue Initiative
What We Remember Will Be Saved
Stephanie Saldaña, Author & Journalist
Thursday, September 28, 2023
Lecture and discussion
"What We Remember Will Be Saved" is a poignant exploration of the modern refugee crisis, highlighting refugees as storytellers preserving vanishing languages and histories through personal items. This event underscores the importance of memory in salvaging and telling our collective story.
Stephanie Saldaña, a journalist and religion scholar from San Antonio, has lived in the Middle East for 20 years. Harvard Divinity School alumna, author of A Country Between and The Bread of Angels, her work appears in major publications. She splits her time between Bethlehem and France.
Shaped by Nature: A Reflective Walk through Seattle University’s Campus and Kubota Garden
Led by Dr. Jason M. Wirth, Professor
Saturday, October 21, 2023
This event, following Fr. Arturo Araujo's artist talk "Shaped by Nature," focused on appreciating Japanese spiritual traditions through campus art and a tour of Kubota Garden. The theme of the day was spiritual reflections on the artistic power of these Japanese American works to heal. It also was the height of Autumn, and the Kubota Garden was in its glory.
Film Screening and Discussion: Carving the Divine
Saturday, March 9, 2024
Reception and Film Screening
The IDI premiered "Carving the Divine," a film exploring Buddhist sculptors in Japan and their healing practices. Post-screening, director Yujiro Seki joined for a Q&A via Zoom.
This event was in support of SU’s neighbors at the Seattle Betsuin Buddhist Temple, who suffered significant damage from an arson attack on New Year's Eve.
Buddhist Sculptors of Japan
Care for Our Common Home
Laudate Deum: On the Climate Crisis
An Apostolic Exhortation
by Pope Francis
Discussion facilitated by Dr. Jessica Imanaka, Associate Professor
Tuesday, October 24, 2023
Dr. Jessica Ludescher Imanaka facilitated the discussion, highlighting Pope Francis' critiques and calls for global ecological transformation and personal responsibility The discussion began with an overview of the Si' and Fratelli Tutti, e ahead of COP28.
Our Common Home and the Climate Crisis: A Multi-Disciplinary
Discussion and Faculty
Panel
Thursday, February 1, 2024
In this interdisciplinary panel with faculty from across campus, we learned more about Laudato Si' and Laudate Deum and how different sectors integrate the documents of Pope Francis into their work.
Moderator: Jeanette Rodriguez, ICTC Executive Director and Professor, Theology and Religious Studies
Overview of LS and LD: Jessica L. Imanaka, Associate Professor, Albers School of Business and Economics and Department of Philosophy
Panelists:
Ajay Abraham, Associate Professor, Marketing at Albers
Colette Taylor, Professor, College of Education
Jason Wirth, Professor, Philosophy
Laudato Si' Action Platform:
Year 2 Summit and Celebration
Thursday, February 15, 2024
Seattle University celebrated its second year of the Laudato Si’ Action Platform emphasizing its commitment to integral ecology and sustainability. The event featured presentations from LSAP Executive Sponsors, a faculty panel, research displays, and community partner information tables. Attendees enjoyed a celebratory reception with light hors d’oeuvres, recognizing the collaborative efforts in advancing the university's sustainability goals as part of the "Seven-Year Journey Toward Integral Ecology" inspired by Pope Francis’ encyclical "Laudato Si’."
Faculty Research Presentations
Embodied Systemic Resilience
Dr. Christie Eppler, PhD, LMFT
Program Director and Professor, Couples and Family Therapy
Monday, November 27, 2023
Dr. Eppler's presentation explored systemic resilience through Catholic Thought and Culture, focusing on adaptability, shared visions, and communication. Using stories of the Mothers of the Disappeared and Gregory Boyle, she illustrated and enhanced resilience models, offering participants methods to cultivate their own resilience.
Understanding Embodiment:
A Critical Connection for Improving Human and Environmental Health Under Laudato Si' in the
Anthropocene
Dr.
Jennifer Fricas,
PhD, MPH, RN Assistant Professor, College of Nursing
Wednesday, May 8, 2024
Dr. Fricas discussed the concept of embodiment in the Anthropocene, highlighting its potential to enhance health professionals' understanding of integral ecology and holistic health. She shared findings from literature and research in Ecuador, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous knowledge and Catholic Intellectual Tradition.
Using Behavioral Economics to Assess Public Support for Improvements on Environmental Preservation
Dr. Meenakshi Rishi, PhD
Professor, Albers School of Business and Economics
Thursday, May 16,
2024
This project emphasized the importance of environmental impact assessments in understanding the relationship between human welfare and the environment, as highlighted in Laudato Si’. Using the Willingness to Pay (WTP) method, it assessed the value of clean air initiatives to inform budgetary allocations and environmental policies.
2025-26 ICTC Faculty Fellowships: Summer Research and Course Development Grants
ICTC invites faculty from all disciplines to apply for the Summer Faculty Fellowships to fund projects that advance the University’s Jesuit Catholic Mission through faculty research or teaching.
Scan to find more information and application materials in the
• Summer Faculty Research Fellowships (up to $7,100). These fellowships encourage the exploration of a rich Catholic intellectual tradition that has made contributions in the humanities, literature and the arts, natural and social sciences, social movements, and ethics across disciplines. Application Deadline: November 15, 2024
• Summer Course Development Fellowships for Faculty ($3,000). These fellowships encourage the development of undergraduate and graduate courses concerned with, or connected to, Catholic thought and culture in order to increase student engagement with Catholic ideas, issues, and applications in a variety of disciplines. Application Deadline: May 15, 2025
RedHawk Hub
Congratulations to the ICTC 2024-2025 Faculty Fellows
Faculty Research Fellowships
Audrey Hudgins, EdD • College of Arts & Sciences, Matteo Ricci Institute & International Studies
Amanda Heffernan, PhD • College of Nursing
Research Topic: The ABCs of Asylum Accompaniment
Stacey Jones, PhD • Albers School of Business and Economics, Research Topic: United by the Same Concern
Robin Narruhn, PhD • College of Nursing
Research Topic: Survivance of the Ri Majol
Course Development Fellowships
Victor D. Evans, PhD • College of Arts and Sciences, Communication Course: Multimedia Storytelling - Seeing Things Differently: Social Justice Leadership
David Kwon, PhD • College of Arts and Sciences, Theology and Religious Studies
Course: Peace Studies and Conflict Transformation: Faith, Peace, and Justice
Kathleen McBroom, PhD • College of Nursing Course: Introduction to Global Health and Clinical Immersion in Guatemala
Co-Sponsored Events
Companions on the Journey: Sharing Stories & Discerning Next Steps
7th Annual Catholic Immigration Summit
Saturday, September 30, 2023
Fellow Catholics learned and celebrated ways to support refugees and migrants facing war, persecution, and climate change. Inspired by Pope Francis’ call for solidarity, the event included Mass with Bishop Elizondo, community stories, discussions, and strategizing next steps for justice.
Sponsored by: Archdiocese of Seattle Immigrant and Refugee Ministry, Catholic Community Services, Catholic Immigration Legal Services, Intercommunity Peace & Justice Center, SU’s Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture, and Washington State Catholic Conference.
Cathonomics
Anthony M. Annett, Author
Monday, February 5, 2024
Lunch and Discussion
Students, faculty, staff, and community members gathered with Anthony M. Annett, author of Cathonomics, to discuss creating a more prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable world economy. Annett is a Gabelli Fellow at Fordham University and a senior advisor at the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.
We are All God’s People: A cultural Immersion
Keynote Speaker: Gloria Purvis
Saturday, November 11, 2023
The summit featured keynote speaker Gloria Purvis, discussions on Daniel Rudd's impact on Catholic justice, and honored local Catholic military service members. A panel explored Black Catholic history and social teaching, concluding with a Mass led by Archbishop Etienne.
Sponsored by: Archdiocese of Seattle Black Catholic Advisory Circle, and SU’s Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture.
2024 MLK Mass:
Mass by Fr. Gary Lazzeroni
Monday, January 15, 2024
Sponsored by: Archdiocese of Seattle Black Catholic Advisory Circle, SU’s Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture, and SU’s Campus Ministry
“I Will Live Until I Die”
Starring playwright ValLimar Jansen along with local actors
Friday & Saturday, March 1 & 2, 2024
The musical told the story of Sr. Thea Bowman's life from her childhood in Mississippi to her work as a religious sister, teacher, musician, and liturgist. The show is full of beautiful music and important messages about faith, justice, and equality.
Sponsored by: St. Joseph Parish, Intercommunity Peace & Justice Center, and SU’s Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture.
Shaped by Nature: Ceramics
& Prints in Dialogue With Nature
Fr. Arturo Araujo, S.J., MFA
September 30 - October 20, 2023
Sponsored by: SU’s Art Department, and SU’s Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture.
Let Justice & Peace Flow:
A Creation Care Network Summit
Saturday March 16, 2024
The environmental justice summit featured prayers, learning sessions, and discussions on ecological justice. Highlights included a fireside chat, Mass with Archbishop Etienne, updates on the Lower Snake River, workshops, and group reflections.
Sponsored by: Creation Care Network, Archdiocese of Seattle, St. James Cathedral Seattle, St. Joseph Parish, The Catholic Community of St. John The Baptist, Intercommunity Peace & Justice Center, and SU’s Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture.
Braiding Together: Recentering and Reconnecting for a More Just and Humane World
Keynote Speaker:
Robin Wall Kimmerer
Thursday, April 11, 2024
Mission Day focused on reflection and re-energizing our shared educational mission. Featuring keynote speaker Robin Wall Kimmerer, author of Braiding Sweetgrass, the event included breakout sessions on cultural and spiritual practices, concluding with a community lunch to foster connection and conversation.
Earth Talks: Care for Our Common Home
The 5th Earth Talks at Seattle University featured 5-minute sustainability presentations by students, staff, faculty, and community partners. Keynote speaker Jessyn Farrell, Director of the Office of Sustainability and Environment, highlighted the theme "Care for our Common Home."
Sponsored by: Center for Environmental Justice and Sustainability, Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture, the Center for Ecumenical and Interreligious Engagement, and the Laudato Si’ Action Platform.
Asking for God’s Blessing For All Couples: A Discussion On The Vatican Document Fiducia Supplicans
Tusday, April 23, 2024
Sponsored by: Division of Mission Integration, and Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture
In December 2023, the Vatican released Fiducia Supplicans, addressing the blessing of persons in irregular unions, including same-sex couples. This sparked significant debate within the Catholic community. SU faculty gathered for an interdisciplinary discussion on its implications for the Church.
Gaffney Chair Reading Group On Jesuit Higher Ed
Thursdays, April 25, May 9, and May 23, 2024
Faculty and staff, led by Gaffney Chair Dr. Donna Teevan, gathered to discuss books on the history of Jesuits in the U.S., focusing on Jesuit higher education. The Gaffney Chair programming will continue next year exploring further topics in Jesuit education.
Sponsored by: The Gaffney Chair, Center for Jesuit Education, and Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture
Spirituality of men Called to holic Priesthood
ron Callahan & nette Rodriguez
ay, May 15, 2024
ch and Reception
Co-sponsored with Theology and Religious Studies
Released in March 2024, Women Called to Catholic Priesthood: From Ecclesial Challenge to Spiritual Renewal is the result of many years of research and interviews conducted by co-authors Dr. Sharon Callahan, SU Professor Emerita, and Dr. Jeanette Rodriguez, SU Professor and ICTC Executive Director. The authors explore the contexts, calls, journeys, spirituality, and theology of women called to priesthood in the Roman Catholic Church in this compelling and carefully crafted ethnographic work.
Theological Formation
Facilitators: Fr. Arturo Araujo, SJ & Dr. Jeanette Rodriguez
Thursdays, December 3, 13, & 20, 2023
During Advent, ICTC invited homilists, liturgical ministers, and those deepening their faith to reflect on the Gospel readings. "Re-Fleshing Scriptures" served as a platform for theological exploration, promoting cultural intelligence and unity. The series aimed to equip Proclaimers of the Word with the skills to deliver impactful homilies, speaking to the hearts of believers and nonbelievers alike. This initiative fostered meaningful dialogue and offered profound Scriptural wisdom.
Autumn Leaves Arturo Araujo, SJ, MFA
Lay Ecclesial Ministry Learning Series
As of June 2024, ICTC has produced two study guides for lay ecclesial ministers on synodality and ecclesiology, with more to come! This project is a result of a working group of lay ecclesial ministers who organized several significant talks in such a way that they could be easily accessed for use in ongoing education by leaders in parish, justice, school, and outreach faith communities.
Executive Director Jeanette Rodriguez, PhD, initiated this effort so Seattle University could impact the larger Archdiocese of Seattle. Her Associate Director, Jessica Palmer, MA, assisted in organizing, supervising, and creating the Lay Ecclesial Ministry links and content groupings. Sharon Henderson Callahan, EdD, Patty Repikof, DMin, and Patty Bowman, JD, MA, organized units and wrote questions for small groups. Many thanks to a group of lay ministers who advised all in the process: Jennifer Ibach, MAPS; Helen Oesterle, MDiv; Patrick Barredo, MDiv; Anna Robertson, MDiv; Joe Cotton, MAPS; Erin Maguire, MA; and Andrea Mendoza, MA.
Save the Date
Annual Immigration Summit
Saturday, October 5, 8:30am-4pm
Scholar and artist Alejandro Olayo-Méndez, SJ, Assistant Professor at Boston College’s School of Social Work, will keynote the event and showcase his photography. Additionally, members of the Tacoma Refugee Choir will present on their organization and lead us in song, SU nursing faculty and ICTC research fellow Amanda Heffernan will share research on asylum accompaniment, Chris Koehler from the Archdiocese of Seattle will present on the local reality of the work to support people through immigration and migration, and the day will end with Mass. Cosponsored event with the Archdiocese of Seattle.
Fall Catholic Heritage Lecture
Tuesday, Tuesday, October 22, 4-5:30pm
Allan Figueroa Deck, SJ, Distinguished Scholar of Pastoral Theology and Latino Studies at Loyola Marymount University will give a lecture on the topic of the “Spirituality of the Synod,” and explore the role of Latino Catholics in the Church.
Fall 2024 Events
Subversive Habits: Black Catholic Nuns in the Long African American Freedom Struggle
Thursday, November 14, 4:30-5:45pm
Shannen Dee Williams, Associate Professor of History at the University of Dayton, will present on her recent book. Co-sponsored event with Mission Integration, the Office for Diversity and Inclusion, and the THRS Ann O’Hara Graff Lecture.
The Guadalupe Faith/Hospitality Immersion
Experience in Mexico
December 10-17, 2024
The growing problems of immigration, displacement, and poverty in our country and throughout the world accentuate the relevance and importance of the Faith/Hospitality experience offered by the Mexican Benedictine Sisters at the Guadalupe Center in Cuernavaca.
This immersion experience/seminar addresses the dire need to build bridges of understanding between the rich and the poor, the north and the south, and differing cultures and religions.
ICTC Team
Dr. Jeanette Rodriguez
Executive Director of ICTC
PhD, Religion and the Personality Sciences
Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley
Jessica Palmer, MA
Associate Director
MA, Theology and Spirituality, and Transformational Leadership, Seattle University
Estefania Kendall
Senior Administrative Assistant
BBA, Universidad de los Llanos
Sophia Cofinas
Communication and Program Assistant
Student Body President | SGSU
Double Major in Public Affairs and International Studies, Seattle University
Arturo A. Araujo, SJ
ICTC Jesuit Artist in Residence
MDiv, Javeriana University, Bogotá
MFA, University of New Mexico
ICTC Mission and Vision
The Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture creates a conceptual space for the SU community to retrieve, renew, and contribute to the Catholic intellectual tradition(s) This tradition contains a vast repository of theological thought, philosophizing, devotional practices, works of literature, visual art, music and drama, styles of architecture, legal reason, science, social and political theorizing, and other forms of cultural expressions.
ICTC provides and supports opportunities for faculty, staff, students, and the external community to engage at the crossroads where faith and reason, religion and culture, church and world meet through academic research, reflection, and dialogue. We strive to be a place of multifaith, diverse conversations where people come together to engage in complex yet necessary conversations.
Through the Catholic Heritage Lectures, course development, research fellowships and community partnerships, we strive to:
• Encourage faculty to expand the horizon of Catholic thought through rigorous scholarship.
• Ignite students’ curiosity to explore the Catholic intellectual traditions in all its richness and complexity
• Engage in a vibrant, community-wide discourse on Catholicism in dialogue with the issues of our day.
• Highlight the university’s commitment to Catholicism as a global and diverse tradition concerned with lifting up the most marginalized of our society.
Yolanda Cieters LSAP Co-Chair Interim Director, Center for Environmental Justice and Sustainability
Jason Wirth, PhD Interreligious Dialogue Chair Professor, Philosophy
Advisory Board Members 2023-2024
Arturo Araujo, SJ, Rector of Arrupe Jesuit Residence, Associate Professor, Visual Arts, Art and Art History
Sharon Callahan, EdH, School of Theology and Ministry Professor Emerita
Fr. James Eblen, Professor Emeritus, School of Theology and Ministry
Elizabeth Guss, Community member, St. Hubert Catholic Church
Jessica Ludescher Imanaka, PhD, Associate Professor, Albers School of Business and Economics and the Department of Philosophy
Nalini Iyer, PhD, Professor, Department of English
Mary Sepulveda, Coordinator, Collection Development; Special Collections & Archives, Lemieux Library and Learning Commons
Lucas Sharma, SJ, SU Trustee, ICTC Advisory Board Chair
Donna Teevan, PhD, Associate Professor and Chair, Theology and Religious Studies
Jason Wirth, PhD, Professor, Philosophy, and Interreligious Dialogue Chair
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