Thomas F. Ryan, Ph.D., will speak on "Jesus as Healer." Dr. Ryan is the University Chaplain and a Professor of Theology and Ministry at Loyola University New Orleans. His research interests include the history of biblical interpretation with a focus on medieval exegesis, the history of spirituality, and faith and popular culture.

Get ready for an incredible opportunity to connect, create, and innovate in the world of tech!  We are thrilled to announce that Black Tech NOLA: Creator Summit is coming to Loyola on Monday, November 4th, 2024!

What to Expect:

Francisco Castillo, D.Min., will speak on "Convivio in Synodality: A U.S. Hispanic/Latino(a) Response to Polarization in Our Church." Dr. Castillo is the Joe and Kelly George Visiting Professor of Pastoral Studies in the Loyola Institute for Ministry at Loyola University New Orleans.

Cynthia Bailey Manns, D.Min., will speak on "Spirituality and Synodality: Holding Space for Conversations in the Spirit." Dr. Manns  was appointed Delegate to the 2023 Synod of Bishops.

Rafael Luciani, S.T.D., will speak on "Synodality: An Antidote to Polarization." Dr. Luciani is an Associate Professor of the Practice, Professor Extraordinarius, at the Boston College School of Theology and Ministry.

In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage.”  (Gospel of Matthew 2:1 – 3, NRSV)

What was the Star of Bethlehem? What are astronomers saying about it? What are theologians saying about it?