Theology Events | University of Portland

Theology Events

Each semester, the Theology Department hosts two Theology Thursday presentations. These events are open to the public and are intended to highlight the work of our department faculty members. 

 

2023-2024 Theology Thursday Presentations

 

Politics, Colonization, and the Weaponization of the Bible: A Transformative Vision

September 21, 2023, Dundon-Berchtold Hall, Brian Doyle Auditorium, 5:00 p.m.

Dr. Carol Dempsey, OP, explores not only how various interpreters of the Bible normalize and reinscribe oppression in our cultural world today, but also how the book can be read for global justice, liberation, and transformation.

 

A Gospel Against Wealth? Reflections on Philanthropy and Justice in the Light of Luke's Jesus

April 13, 2023, Dundon-Berchtold Hall, Brian Doyle Auditorium, 7:00 p.m.

Dr. Jordan Skornik, UP adjunct professor of theology, reflects on the how the gospel of Luke informs contemporary debates in American philanthropy and support of U.S. nonprofits.

 

Ecospirituality and Ecopsychology: Strangers, Rivals, or Partners?

February 9, 2023, Bauccio Commons, Terrace Room, 7:00 p.m.

Dr. Rachel Wheeler, UP assistant professor of theology, explores ecospirituality and ecopsychology as describing specific ways spirit/mind function within human identity and the more-than-human.

 

Reckoning with Abortion: A Dialogue of Perspectives

November 3, 2022, Dundon-Berchtold Hall, Brian Doyle Auditorium, 7:00 p.m.

Dr. Christina Astorga, UP professor of theology, will draw on a variety of perspectives to engage the topic of abortion, given the recent Supreme Court reversal of Roe vs. Wade.

 

Learning to Sing: The Theology of Etty Hillesum

February 3, 2022, Bauccio Commons, Terrace Room, 7:00 p.m.

Dr. David Turnbloom, UP associate professor of theology, will explore Hillesum’s writings and the lessons she can offer those who search for justice in a world marked by injustice.

 

50 Years of Reading the Early Christians: What They Still Offer Me (Or Don't)

April 7, 2022, Bauccio Commons, Terrace Room, 7:00 p.m.

Michael Cameron, retiring UP professor of historical theology, still finds the literature of Early Christians enthralling after fifty years. Join him as he explores these writings, opulent if almost unopened treasures for readers today.

 

Videos of Past Theology Thursday Presentations

Sacramental Justice and the Mission of Holy Cross

UP Assistant Professor David Turnbloom examines the relationship between sacraments and justice. Using the constitutions of the Congregation of the Holy Cross as a guide, we will explore the ways in which a community that seeks justice becomes a sacrament of God for the world.

 

What Does It Mean to be a Liturgical Parish?

Michael R. Prendergast, UP Theology Adjunct Instructor, explores what it means to be a liturgical parish that strives to live according to the theological principle of communion. Michael has over 40 years of experience as a musician and liturgist at the parish, cathedral, and diocesan levels.