Lourdes University to host Father James J. Bacik archives
Lourdes University to host Father James J. Bacik archives
Endowed chair in theology to be established in his name
Lourdes University is pleased to announce that Father James J. Bacik, renowned theologian, has chosen Lourdes to house his archives. The archives will be located in the university’s Duns Scotus Library and will include his collection of notes, books, lectures, sermons, videos and more. Some of his works will also be accessible on Lourdes University’s website.
On Sunday, November 2nd, Lourdes will host a formal opening of the archives. Beginning with a 2 p.m. liturgy, celebrated by Father Bacik in the Queen of Peace Chapel, a lecture will follow (at approx. 3 p.m.), along with the blessing and opening of his archives (at approx. 4 p.m.). A reception will be held in Lourdes’ Duns Scotus Library.
To honor his life and work, Lourdes University is establishing the Father James Bacik Endowed Chair in Theological Studies. In addition to serving Lourdes in recruiting respected faculty who are exceptionally well-prepared in their profession and have extensive teaching experience, the endowment will also fund a scholarship for graduate theological studies students.
Father Bacik is a widely-regarded theologian, writer, lecturer and pastor who served as campus minister and adjunct professor of humanities at The University of Toledo for more than 30 years. Ordained in 1962 as a priest for the Diocese of Toledo, he served at St. Mary’s Sandusky, St. Thomas More Bowling Green and Corpus Christi University Parish in Toledo. He holds a doctorate in theology from the University of Oxford in England and previously taught at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary, and taught summer programs at both Notre Dame University and Fordham University.
As pastor of Corpus Christi, he led several important initiatives including establishing a Chair of Catholic Studies at The University of Toledo; building a new church and parish facility; organizing the nationally acclaimed Christian Leadership Program; and promoting an extensive Christian Service Program for students and permanent community members. His books include Apologetics and the Eclipse of Mystery; Contemporary Theologians; Catholic Spirituality: Its History and Challenge; and A Light Unto My Path: Crafting Effective Homilies (co-authored by Dr. Kevin Anderson). He has lectured throughout the United States as well as in Australia, China, Japan, Latin America, and Russia
Father Bacik is a long-time friend of the Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania and their sponsored ministries. Through a partnership with the Sylvania Franciscan Village, he presents a monthly lecture series and is currently a member of Lourdes’ faculty, teaching an introductory theology course in the Master of Arts in Theology program.
“Father Bacik is a gifted pastor and teacher. He offers students the perfect blend of academic excellence and a deep love for the faith. Students benefit from his ability to make theology a part of life, to see life events through the prism of faith and to understand the message of Jesus for today,” reflects Sr. Shannon Schrein, PhD, Graduate School Dean and Master of Arts in Theology Chair.
Rooted in the Catholic Franciscan tradition, Lourdes University offers baccalaureate degrees in more than 30 academic majors as well as graduate degrees in business, education, liberal studies, nursing, organizational leadership, and theology. Community outreach programs include the Appold Planetarium, the Center for Science Education & the Environment, and Lifelong Learning. A member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, Lourdes students can also compete in a variety of men’s and women’s sports. Named a “Best in the Midwest” college by the Princeton Review, Lourdes University is a nationally accredited, veteran and transfer-friendly institution offering a variety of student scholarships. Discover us online at www.lourdes.edu or by phone at 419-885-3211.
Press Release Contact Name: Heather Hoffman
Press Release Contact Email: [email protected]
Press Release Contact Phone: 419-824-3952
Organization Name: Lourdes University
Website or Link: www.lourdes.edu
Organization Address: Sylvania, OH