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Theology
An image of painting of an undetermined saint giving a sermon with people around.

Preaching as Hospitality

Welcoming Others Into the Word of God

“And he lived there two whole years at his own expense, and he welcomed all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ.” 
From Acts of the Apostles 28:30-31

Launched in 2023 with a grant from the Lilly Endowment, the Preaching as Hospitality initiative empowers preachers to grow in confidence while embodying the spirit of Christian hospitality.

The program is directed by Father Dominic Ciriaco as a preaching pilgrimage, where participants become traveling companions who share their knowledge and experiences in their ministries.

Proclaiming the Word in a Spirit of Welcome

Hospitality in preaching goes beyond just being a good public speaker,” explains Dianne M. Traflet, J.D. ’88, S.T.D., Associate Dean of the Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology. “A hospitable preacher needs to connect in a specific way through the Word of God.”

Our program’s recent and upcoming focus centers on hospitable teachings and lessons throughout the New Testament, exploring how these principles can help build and strengthen Christian friendships.

The Many Faces of Hospitality

The Many Faces of Hospitality speaker series looks at individuals in history who exemplify hospitality in preaching.


Dorothy Day and the Visual Arts


Catholic Artist, Brother Mickey McGrath, brings art, storytelling and humor to his ministry. In the Chapel of Christ the Good Shepherd, Brother Mickey delivered a lively presentation using artwork, storytelling and humor as he considered the lives of many Catholic figures, particularly Servant of God, Dorothy Day. Learn More >>

Brother Mickey McGrath, OSFS, describing his works

St. Benedict and Benedictine Spirituality


The tradition of Benedictine preaching and hospitality was a source of inspiration when Sister Marlene Milasus, OBS, and Right Reverend Augustine Curley visited the Immaculate Seminary chapel  recently. The event focused on the preaching and hospitable traits of St. Benedict, and how both religious and lay people can incorporate these teachings in their daily lives. Sister Marlene offered perspectives on three different levels of hospitality: to God, to others, and to ourselves. Learn More >>

Sister Marlene


St. Frances Cabrini

The series began in November 2024, with an Evening of Reflection, featuring Evening Prayer in the Seminary’s Chapel of Christ the Good Shepherd. The event included a reflection by Fr. Ciriaco on St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, emphasizing her compassionate welcome toward immigrants and the poor. Seminarians also participated by reading excerpts from her diary, offering a personal glimpse into her life and hospitality.

Fr. Ciriaco on St. Frances Xavier Cabrini

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