ALLEGANY, N.Y. — The Franciscan Institute at St. Bonaventure University has announced its summer course schedule.
Two new classes are being offered this year — “A Theology of Presence and Ministry in the Franciscan Tradition,” taught by Amanda Quantz, and “Retrieving Franciscan Philosophy for Social Engagement,” by Br. Keith Warner, OFM.
Other courses offered by the institute, where F. Edward Coughlin, OFM, is dean, include:
• “Clare and Her Sisters: Their Life, Vision and Legacy,” taught by Maria Pia Alberzoni
• “Development of the Franciscan Person,” taught by Fr. David Couturier, OFM Cap.
• “Formation Round Table,” taught by Fr. Jack Rathschmidt, OFM Cap.
• “Francis: His Life and Charism,” taught by Mary Meany”
• “Survey of Franciscan History,” taught by Fr. Maurice Carmody
• “The Writings of Francis and Clare,” taught by Jean Francois Godet-Calogeras
More information about the institute’s summer courses can be found on its website.
Due to low enrollment, the School of Franciscan Studies suspended new academic year admissions to the master of arts program in Franciscan Studies two years ago. The ongoing curriculum revision process is focused on the development and provision of for-credit, continuing education, and professional enrichment programming through the institute’s summer program.
“As we look to new audiences and alternative modes of delivery, we continue to be committed to providing widening circles of individuals with the opportunity to study the tradition and explore its implications for contemporary life and ministry in a globalized and complex world,” said Edward.
New Director
Recently, Gary Maciag, OFM, was appointed director of operations for the Franciscan Institute, effective May 1. For the past year, Gary has served as executive director of the Association of Franciscan Colleges and Universities in residence at St. Bonaventure. His role with the institute will focus on setting up financial plans and protocols for supporting major research and publication by Franciscan Institute Press.
Gary’s work will be supported by a Research Council, composed of leading Franciscan scholars who will have a direct impact on the selection of projects, the healthy functioning of the publications arm, and the integration of an international network of Franciscan scholars in the ongoing work done at the institute. The university is in the process of inviting scholars to serve on the council.
“Gary’s leadership and organizational experience, coupled with the Research Council’s subject matter and publishing expertise, will position the Franciscan Institute to continue to advance the Franciscan intellectual tradition in ways that have not previously been possible,” said Michael Fischer, provost and vice president for academic affairs at St. Bonaventure.
New Publication
The institute’s publishing arm recently released “Beyond the Text: Franciscan Art and Construction of Religion,” edited by Xavier Seubert, OFM, art history professor, and Oleg Bychkov, theology professor at St. Bonaventure University. The book contains essays that “probe the art and visual culture of the early Franciscan movement to reveal insights and nuances of the life and power of this revolutionary phase of the Catholic religion,” according to its description.
— Maria Hayes is communications coordinator for Holy Name Province.