AdNU Theology Department hosted “The 3rd All Ateneo and Xavier University RS/Theology Faculty Conference”

Theology Department hosted the 3rd All-Ateneo and Xavier University  RS/ Theology Faculty conference last October 28-30, 2008 at Richard Michael Fernando, S.J.  Conference Hall with the theme: “Strengthening the Formative Role of the Theology Department in Jesuit Universities”. The event was participated in by Ateneo de Manila University, Ateneo de Zamboanga University, Xavier University , Ateneo de Davao University, and Ateneo de Naga University.

The conference was opened with the welcome address of Fr. Joel Tabora who shared with us his thoughts that the theology taught in Jesuit universities  be consistent with the Catholic Faith, supportive of our commitment to the promotion of justice, contribute to cultural transformation in the light of the Gospel, and supportive of dialogue with other religions in the world. Likewise, he also reiterated the two-pronged concerns in the Jesuit schools. He also reiterated the two-pronged concerns in the Jesuit schools. That theology educate students in the meaning and practice of the faith and a locus of urgent reflection on the meaning of Revelation for us today as we confront the various current challenges of our world.

Fr. Tony F. Moreno, SJ gave a talk on the “Rationale of the Conference: Its Beginnings, Goals and Objectives”, Cooperation and Linkage among Jesuit Universities and the GC 35 its implication and challenges to Jesuit Academic Institutioin.

Fr. Jose Mario Francisco, SJ talked about renewing the Catholic and Jesuit Identity of Jesuit Academic Institutions and a brief discussion about the Reproductive Health Bill.

Fr. Richie Genilo who thoroughly discussed the Reproductive Health Bill and the Catholic Faith: The Lagman Bill and the Catholic Moral Tradition Agreement and conflict came up with a more balance treatment of the issue. He underscored the need for dialogue between the government and the Catholic Church and other faith groups.

Lastly, the theology Teachers discussed among themselves the commonalities and major differences in the offering of the Theology courses  . In the workshop they made a deeper review and analysis of the curriculum as to contents, teaching strategies, and references.