A Lamp in the Darkness: How Faithful Catholic Colleges Are Helping to Save the Church

by Anne Hendershott, David Willey

For decades, the upper level of the Catholic education system has struggled to preserve its identity. In an ongoing effort to meet the financial and reputational demands of academia, many Catholic colleges and universities have conformed to the world instead of to the gospel.

Happily, there are still beacons of hope out there, as Dr. Anne Hendershott of Franciscan University reveals through powerful examples of Catholic witness in institutions of higher learning nationwide. Through courageous testimonies, you will discover how to rebuild educational establishments to form the saints who will transform every field, just as St. Francis of Assisi renewed the Church in his time.

Founded ex corde ecclesiae, “from the heart of the Church,” Christocentric colleges ignite the fire of the Faith for new generations. As Dr. Hendershott contrasts them with more secular colleges, you will acquire context for the present-day challenges and discover the concrete ways in which committed Catholic universities live out their mission. Highlights include:

• The background and impact of “open circle” education on Catholic culture
• The true mission of every Catholic university, according to St. John Paul II and Ven. Fulton J. Sheen
• How Fr. Mike Scanlon, T.O.R., transformed Franciscan University from a failing party school into one of the most outstanding Catholic universities in America
• Domino’s Pizza founder Tom Monaghan’s vision and generosity in building Ave Maria University 
• Different approaches to teaching liberal arts curriculum in faithful Catholic schools
• The crucial role of liturgy, worship, and the sacraments in spiritually forming students
• A definitive list of authentic Catholic colleges and universities

As you learn about the institutional fidelity and liturgical character of these institutions, you will observe how the finest Catholic colleges navigate the issues of academic freedom enlightened by Church teachings and how, despite worldly attacks, they remain steadfast in their mission to form souls for Heaven.

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