Hosted by the Center for Catholic Studies, Dr. Hosffman Ospino will present a lecture titled “The American Catholic Experience 2024: Tensions that Test Our Communal Identity” on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 6 p.m. in the Barone Campus Center's Dogwood Room.
Amid a turbulent election year, a significant synodal process, and rapid cultural shifts, American Catholics are navigating challenges that test communal unity and reshape the Church’s voice in society. Many are concerned about maintaining cohesion, yet these pressures are also prompting American Catholics to explore new expressions of faith and public engagement.
In his lecture on Nov. 13, Dr. Ospino will explore the political landscape, ecclesial issues, and cultural transformations that have uniquely tested American Catholics over the past 12 months. He will discuss how these tensions are inspiring new ways of living out Catholic identity and how they are amplifying the Church’s voice in the public square.
Dr. Ospino is an associate professor of Hispanic ministry and religious education at Boston College's School of Theology and Ministry. Originally from Colombia, he completed his undergraduate studies in philosophy, earned an MA in theology with a focus on Church history, and received his PhD in theology and education from Boston College. His research explores the intersection of faith and culture, with a particular emphasis on the transformative role of Hispanic Catholic communities in American parishes, schools, and organizations. A sought-after speaker, Dr. Ospino has also led groundbreaking studies on religious and cultural change, contributing widely to discussions on ministry, education, and catechesis.
Sponsored by the Center for Catholic Studies, the annual Mooney Lecture honors the legacy of Rev. Christopher F. Mooney, S.J., a former academic vice president at Fairfield University who passed away in 1993. Fr. Mooney authored several influential books, including Teilhard de Chardin and the Mystery of Christ, which won the National Catholic Book Award in 1966, and Public Virtue: Law and the Social Character of Religion, which was honored with Alpha Sigma Nu’s National Award in 1987.
This event is free and open to the public. Register and learn more at Fairfield.edu/cs.
