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April 22, 2020
In times of global crisis, the wisdom of theologians brings not only spiritual comfort but also a blueprint of how to continue and strengthen one’s faith. Joseph E. Capizzi, Ph.D., executive director of IHE, and H. David Baer outline the crucial role of theologians during a crisis such as the coronavirus pandemic, most significantly, to help people find God’s grace to lead them forward in faith rather than in fear. The authors also reflect on the social nature of the Church and how the love we have for each other is illustrated even as we practice social distancing.
April 20, 2020
In a joint statement of twenty experts in medicine, law, bioethics, theology, and public policy, M.A. in Human Rights Program Director, William J. Saunders, offers guidance and moral considerations for prioritizing care during the COVID-19 pandemic. When faced with economic crisis and concerns medical care capacity, these professors with myriad expertise apply reason and provide clarity for all of us, especially those in decision-making roles.
April 20, 2020
Mark Bauerlein, Faculty Fellow for the IHE, masterfully describes his time in graduate school and the impact reading great authors had on his personal life, as well as his professional journey. In an age where our addiction to screens is both troublesome and seemingly impossible to shake, Bauerlein's poignancy about the usefulness of literature reminds readers of one of the greatest truths: books are just plain better.
March 31, 2020
Following the Holy Father’s Urbi et Orbi blessing, IHE Fellow Lucia A. Silecchia expresses both simply and profoundly how we all feel about this strange and uncertain situation. Sharing the meaning behind the Holy Father’s Urbi et Orbi blessing, Professor Silecchia reminds us that it is ordinary people doing ordinary things that change the world, so long as extraordinary love is our motive.
March 25, 2020
IHE Fellow, C.C. Pecknold, provides readers with poignant takeaways from the Babylonian Exile. How does the experience of the Israelites compare to our own in this Coronavirus pandemic? Where is God in the midst of suffering? As we all experience isolation and fear, this author looks to Sacred Scripture and clings to a forgotten truth: God is Sovereign.
March 25, 2020
What good is fasting, anyway? IHE Fellow, Jay Richards, makes a case for fasting and prayer with specific regard to the poor during this strange and often frightening Lent. Examining Scripture and even Seinfeld to make his case, his words hit us powerfully, perhaps right in the gut, as we realize the devastation this pandemic is having on those who suffer with food scarcity.
March 24, 2020
In an article for Aleteia, Mario Enzler, Fellow at the Institute for Human Ecology at the Catholic University of America, shares the devastating aftermath of over 11 deaths of priests in the Bergamo, Italy area. As the pandemic continues to affect us all personally, how will it affect the Body of Christ as a whole?
March 17, 2020
M.A. in Human Rights student, Joseph Enzler, reflects on his recent opportunity to attend a meeting of the Commission on Inalienable Rights, formed by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Enzler shares how this experience shaped his view on public policy as he heard from both academic and private sector experts.
March 17, 2020
Abigail Wilkinson, M.A. in Human Rights student with the IHE, demonstrates the growing need for legislation that respects basic rights as she reflects on her time attending a recent meeting of the Commission on Unalienable Rights. Her reflection is one that challenges us to ask ourselves: who are the people and what are the organizations that are responsible for ensuring rights for all?
March 17, 2020
IHE Fellow, Lucia A. Silecchia, pens a thought-provoking reflection on how changes to daily routine impact our personal faith and community spirituality. She shares how the meaning of the Holy Mass is transformed in light of the fact that it’s been taken away. How will the faithful respond?
About the IHE
The Institute for Human Ecology (IHE) at The Catholic University of America is the nation’s leading academic institute committed to increasing scientific understanding of the economic, cultural, and social conditions vital for human flourishing.
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The Catholic University of America
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202-319-5892
ihe@cua.edu
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