“You play a crucial role in carrying out the Church’s mission in the world by engaging with important issues regarding justice, peace, protection of life, nurturing the young at heart, and upholding the dignity of all people. You are ambassadors of Christ in everyday life. And by embodying your values and sharing the Gospel in meaningful ways, you contribute to spreading hope and compassion.”
The quote was from Fr. Vien Nguyen, SCJ, to alumni of Sacred Heart Seminary and School of Theology‘s Cor Unum master’s program. On Feb. 4, SHSST held an appreciation dinner for the program’s alumni, staff and faculty.
Based in the Dehonian charism, Cor Unum is a master’s degree program in theology designed for lay people, many of whom serve or plan to serve in Church ministry. Organized into two-year cohorts of approximately a dozen students, classes are held on Monday evenings and one Saturday per month. There are also options for summer experiences, such as a trip to the Holy Land.
“In the classroom, at table, in meetings, and just milling about I have been continually impressed with the lived passion, engaging inquiry, personal investment, focused dedication and engaging discussion among the lay ministers of Cor Unum,” said Br. Duane Lemke, SCJ, whose casual comments after a province meeting a few months ago led to the Appreciation Dinner.
During his presentation on the history of the program, Dr. Patrick Russell told alumni that “[Y]ou are now extending the very Kingdom of God that Jesus proclaimed through your lives, your work, and your ministry.” In 2015, Dr. Russell was the SHSST Vice President for Intellectual Formation and Academic Dean, and one of the founders of the Cor Unum program.
“Indeed, the Spirit shines in your faces,” he continued, “because you are transforming the world through your teaching in Catholic schools, through your ministry to the poor and marginalized, through lives of generous love to family and volunteer service in the community, through your catechetical efforts and church ministry, through your work with migrants and immigrants, through your secular professions that are done in a way that brings Christ in the midst your vital work. And the list goes on and on…”
Click here to read Dr. Russell’s text.
Click here to read more about the evening.
Click here to view photos.
