Jesuit School of Theology Commencement
Speaker Most Rev. Robert McElroy, bishop of San Diego, spoke about the rise of “pastoral theology” at the May 20 celebration.
Deborah Lohse
Theologians today are benefiting from Pope Francis’ emphasis and elevation of “pastoral theology,” which considers the situations, suffering and limitations of human beings in theology’s role of revealing the benefits of a relationship with God.
Most Reverend Robert W. McElroy, bishop of San Diego, explored the ascendance of “pastoral theology” during his commencement speech to the 55 graduating students from the Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University.
“In his teachings, Pope Francis points to an understanding of pastoral theology which is far more expansive and robust” than in the past, said Bishop McElroy, who received an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree during the event.
JST’s commencement took place at the Pacific School of Religion Chapel on Saturday, May 20 at 3 p.m.
Among the students who received membership awards from Alpha Sigma Nu, the honor society of Jesuit Colleges and universities, were Ryan Jordan Rallanka, S.J.; Victor Setibo, S.J.; Lucia Tosatto; Anne Tropeano; and Robert McChesney, S.J. (honorary membership).
Fifty-five students received 70 degrees, including students receiving Master of Divinity (M.Div.); Master of Theology Studies (M.T.S.); Master of Theology (Th.M.); Master of Arts (M.A.); Bachelor of Sacred Theology (S.T.B.); Licentiate in Sacred Theology (S.T.L.) and Doctor of Sacred Theology (S.T.D.) degrees.
The invocation was conducted by Kelly Miguens. The benediction was conducted by Sr. Janet Mendonca.
Read a story about Bishop McElroy’s speech in the National Catholic Reporter.
Most Rev. Robert McElroy, bishop of San Diego, with Rev. Kevin O'Brien, dean of JST, and Rev. Michael Engh, president of Santa Clara University.