Posted by Kelsey, UST sophomore, Psychology, Catholic Studies, Renaissance Program minor
We are all of us searching for happiness. The happiness we seek, though, is not a temporal fulfillment, but rather an eternal joy. Through an understanding of the Gospel message, we realize that it is impossible to find happiness in this time-restricted world. There is only one true source of happiness, and that is God. How, though, do we find God and thus attain happiness? From the Bible to the great works of G.K. Chesterton and C.S. Lewis to thinkers like Romano Guardini, John Henry Newman, and the popes, this course not only explained what happiness is, but how to attain it. It prompted students to think analytically about the texts while at the same time inspiring in them a desire to examine the great work of their own lives.
The “Search for Happiness” class is more than just an informational lecture series; it is truly a journey of faith. As we examined happiness in light of the mystery of the Church, the four cardinal virtues, sin, self-gift, vocation, and the Eucharist, I found myself falling ever more in love with God. Never in my life have I had a class like it, and never in my life have I liked a class as much as this one. If you think you might take this class, enter into it with your heart wide open. I think that you, too, will find it to be deeply rewarding, and you may even find yourself experiencing a bit of the happiness that God is longing to give you.
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Posted by John, UST junior, Biology and Catholic Studies
The first time I learned about the Catholic Men’s House was in the spring of my freshman year in college. That spring, I started going to Morning Prayer and Mass with the men of the houses. The following semester, I joined. Coming into the house, I knew it was demanded that I not simply be a resident there, but that I become a brother to my fellow men and that I strive to become a better man through living out my Catholic faith.
Posted by Katie, UST junior, Business Leadership and Management, Communications, and Catholic Studies
Some may cringe at the question. Others take a deep breath and prepare a long-winded answer sounding much like an “I don’t know” response. The question is similar to the high school senior’s “where do you plan on going to school?”, or the college freshman’s “what’s your major?” It cannot be escaped.
As a student of the Opus College of Business AND Catholic Studies I can honestly say that this question excites me more than most. This simple question tells me that I have a chance to offer a quick elevator pitch for why I believe Catholic Studies is not only the unifying and completing element of my education and personal life, but it is also a perfect complement to a business degree. Though they may be offering questions for small talk, I see it as an opportunity to spread the good news of Catholic Studies.
Welcome to the blog of the Center for Catholic Studies at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, MN! Ever wondered exactly what the Center for Catholic Studies is? Or maybe wondered what a major or minor in Catholic Studies is all about? Look no further. This blog will attempt to give you a quick (and ongoing) taste of the work of the Center for Catholic Studies, especially within its academic programs. Students will be the primary bloggers, writing about their classes, majors, future careers, study abroad in Rome, prayer, social events, lectures, and other ongoing activities through the Center for Catholic Studies. Staff and faculty will also occasionally offer their perspectives.
The Center for Catholic Studies is dedicated to the integration of faith and reason in every facet of life. Our programs and services create an environment where students, alumni and others can engage their faith within contemporary culture and grow both intellectually and spiritually. To learn more about the history of our Center, check out our website.
Stay tuned for updates!