How the Catholic Church Built Western Civilization

Another Summer Institute opportunity:

Summer Theology Institute, July 19-21, Catholic Diocese of Wichita Event to explore, rediscover Catholic roots in Western Civilization

“How the Catholic Church Built Western Civilization,” is the title of this year’s Summer Theology Institute (STI) being hosted at the Spiritual Life Center in Wichita. Now in its ninth year, the STI is set for July 19-21 and features nationally known scholars presenting a slate of classes designed to educate and inspire.

The Institute opens on Thursday, July 19 with an evening keynote address. Classes are held Friday and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

“This year’s STI theme is a response to the words of Pope Benedict XVI who calls upon Europe and the United States, to rediscover its Christian roots,” explains Jeri Holladay, Director of Adult Education at the Center and the driving force behind the Institute. “Benedict believes that the West will not survive without a return and deep understanding of our heritage that brings dignity to the human person. This heritage is truly a gift to the world and one we want to reintroduce during the Institute.”

The featured keynote speaker and faculty member for the 2007 STI is Thomas Woods, Ph.D., a best-selling author and senior fellow at the Ludwig von Mises Institute (www.mises.org) based in Auburn, Alabama. This year’s theme is taken from Dr. Woods’ book of the same name (2005, Regnery Publishing, Inc.). He is also the author of the New York Times bestseller, “The Politically Incorrect Guide to American History.”

Father Meinrad Miller, O.S.B., chaplain and lecturer in Theology at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas, joins Dr. Woods on the STI faculty. Father Meinrad will teach a course called “The Monastic Contribution: From Europe to Kansas.”

In addition to duties as coordinator of the Institute, Mrs. Holladay will also teach a course on The Crusades.

The Summer Theology Institute is an intense religious education program with nationally recognized scholars filled with energy and inspiration designed to introduce and explore the Catholic Tradition. Created in 1999, the Institute offers catechists, RCIA team members, Catholic schoolteachers, DRE’s and anyone else deeply interested in their faith an opportunity to learn in a dynamic and supportive Catholic environment.

Overnight guests may reserve a private room at the Center, including a full slate of meals prepared and served on site. The Spiritual Life Center is considered one of the finest retreat centers in the Midwest and is easily accessible. Earlybird discounted registration for the Institute is available now through June 22, with registration closed after July 5. A detailed brochure can be viewed and downloaded by logging onto the Spiritual Life Center web site , and going to the Calendar of Events page. Phone registration is available by calling the Center in Wichita at (316) 744-0167.

HT Fr. Meinrad.