Canisius to Establish Youth Theology Institute

March 1, 2016

BUFFALO, NY - Canisius is one of a select group of schools across the nation to receive a $583,000 grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. The college will use the grant to establish the Be the Light Youth Theology Institute. The institute will provide high school juniors and seniors with opportunities to explore theological traditions, ask questions about the moral dimensions of contemporary issues and examine how their faith calls them to live lives of service.

“The creation of this institute at Canisius is an opportunity for us to express, more deeply, our commitment to our Catholic, Jesuit identity,” said President John J. Hurley in announcing the award. “Our unique approach for this institute will introduce high school students to what the Jesuits have called ‘the faith that does justice,’ namely, Catholic philosophy and theology, viewed through the lenses of Ignatian spirituality and pedagogy.”

Participants will be guided by Canisius professors in the Philosophy and Religious Studies and Theology departments, members of the Canisius Jesuit community, and leaders from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo, as well as undergraduate and graduate students.

Lilly Endowment Inc. is a private philanthropic foundation that supports religion, education and community development.

Read more about the Lilly Endowment by clicking here.