Rev. Joseph Simmons, S.J., will present “A Pope’s Hope for the Humanities: Reading Francis’s Love Letter to Literature” as part of the Humanities Research Colloquium on Thursday, Oct. 24, at 4 p.m. in Marquette Hall 105.
On July 17, Pope Francis published a letter, “On the Role of Literature in Formation.” Francis originally wanted to expand the minds and hearts of Catholic seminarians, but he decided to widen his encouraging letter to all people of faith – or no faith. The great writers of the world, he reasons, reveal the mysteries of human nature, and cultivate empathy for believers and non-believers alike. In this talk, Simmons will offer a critical appraisal of Francis’s letter and consider how Francis’s “ecumenical vision” might help the humanities find common cause once again.
Simmons is an assistant professor of theology in the Klingler College of Arts and Sciences and an alumnus (A&S ’04). His areas of interest include theology and literature, the theological turn in phenomenology, and fundamental theology, as well as atheism and secularity.
All are welcome to attend. For a virtual option, email Dr. Melissa Ganz for the Teams meeting link.
