School of Theology Welcomes Catholic Author Fr. Jacques Philippe
Thursday, February 11th, 2021
In today's crisis of fatherhood, it is more necessary than ever that men, especially priests, be images of the strong and gentle fatherhood of God, by whom the blessing of the Heavenly Father is given to his children. What is spiritual fatherhood? How can it help a man to truly become himself and reach the freedom of the children of God? Father Jacques will offer inspiring answers and a spiritual path forward. He also will outline precautions and guidance to help priests, deacons, seminarians, religious brothers – and indeed, all men – to guard against possible failures and to deploy their unique gifts. Focusing on the Beatitudes, Father Jacques will emphasize that one can only become a spiritual father by following the path of poverty of heart, humility, meekness, mercy and purity in the love that the Lord offers.
This is the second event commemorating the Center for Diaconal Formation's 10th anniversary year. "We are honored to have Fr. Jacques speak with us on the topic of Spiritual Fatherhood, especially because Pope Francis has proclaimed this year to be dedicated to St. Joseph, who is a model of courageous love for all to follow and imitate!" says Deacon Andrew E. Saunders, director of the Center for Diaconal Formation.
Renowned Catholic author Father Jacques Philippe.
About Father Jacques Philippe
Jacques Philippe was born on March 12, 1947 in Lorraine, France. After studying mathematics in college, he spent several years teaching and doing scientific research. In 1976, he met the then recently-founded Community of the Beatitudes and, answering the Lord's call, he became a brother in the Community. After being asked to be a priest by the community in 1981, he traveled to Rome to study theology and canon law and also began his work as a spiritual director, working in the formation of priests and seminarians of the Community. In 1994, he returned to France, where he assumed various responsibilities including spiritual direction, the formation of new members in the Community, and participation in its General Counsel. He began preaching retreats regularly in France and abroad and has consolidated his principal retreat themes into twelve books on spirituality. These books have sold over a million copies in 24 languages. Jacques Philippe's writings on themes such as prayer, interior freedom, and peace of heart have become classics of modern Catholic spirituality.
About Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology
Immaculate Conception Seminary is a House of Formation for the Roman Catholic priesthood and the School of Theology of Seton Hall University. Forming priests for God's people has remained the Seminary's constant focus, and the Seminary faculty – well-educated authors and scholars in their own fields – devote their time and energy to preparing these men for priesthood amidst the challenges of the 21st century. The School also focuses on the education of lay men and women in theology, permanent deacons, religious who are not studying for ordination, and already-ordained priests – not only providing for them academically, but also for their personal, pastoral and spiritual formation.
Categories: Faith and Service, Nation and World
