Becoming All God Imagines: Jesuit School of Theology’s Strategic Vision

The Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University (JST-SCU) prepares theological leaders who embody justice, compassion, and bold service. Guided by Ignatian, synodal, and Catholic principles, JST-SCU's Jesuit theological leadership programs support students’ pursuit of transformative ministry and scholarship.

This article explores JST-SCU's strategic vision and distinctive approach to theological education—from its commitment to intercultural inclusion to its focus on preparing leaders to serve Church and society.

Centering Formation and Mission in Theology

Established in 1934, the Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University has become a cornerstone of ministerial formation. The JST-SCU mission and vision are to educate scholars and ministers to serve by:¹

• Enlivening faith in all aspects of life
• Promoting reconciliation among communities and within their circles
• Standing up for justice amid the needs and challenges of the modern world and Church
• Collaborating with others within and outside their faith
• Participating in God's mercy, compassion, and hospitality
• Witnessing and reflecting the joy of the Gospel

The Jesuit School of Theology aims to support the spiritual and academic formation of each student. Beyond bringing theology into dialogue and academics, JST-SCU also learns from its students and communities in a spirit of solidarity. This intercultural and interfaith dialogue shapes the school's programs, enriching theological education through diverse cultural perspectives and global engagement.

JST-SCU's graduate programs prepare students to accompany others along their paths to Christianity. Program concentrations are diverse and wide-ranging, so students can explore and incorporate multiple aspects of theology into their own practices: In the HyFlex Master of Theological Studies program, for example, students may focus their education on religion and culture, biblical studies, systematic theology, or ethics.

Additionally, the Jesuit School of Theology aligns with Jesuit values of service, justice, and global solidarity. The school's practices are rooted in Catholic and Ignatian traditions, and the staff and student body include Jesuits, clergy, lay men and women, and members of other religious groups. JST-SCU is one of only two remaining Jesuit theological centers in the U.S., and it serves as an international center for students from across the globe.^1,2

"[JST-SCU’s Renewal Program experience was] transformative not only because of the audited classes, the weekly presentations, and spiritual direction—but also because of the priests, religious and laypersons who brought their full humanity and faith commitment to the program."
— Daryl Grigsby, author of "Catholics for the Common Good: An Eternal Offering"

Embracing Inclusion and Intercultural Understanding

Diversity, inclusion, and intercultural understanding are core elements of theology and unity. As an international center of scholarly and ministerial formation, JST-SCU is home to a vibrant community of people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and faith traditions. Learning solely within a single cultural context can limit one's theological perspective, while JST-SCU's intercultural environment broadens understanding. Within this inclusive environment, students engage with theology across cultural contexts—preparing graduates to understand how faith is expressed and lived differently in various communities. This knowledge is essential for effective ministry, teaching, and scholarship in our globalized Church.

JST-SCU's commitment to diverse voices extends to structural change. In 2026, JST-SCU will launch a Master of Theological Studies (MTS) program with a particular concentration in synodal renewal and leadership for women.³ This leadership style supports collaboration and intercultural engagement, giving everyone's voice a platform to be heard. The program aims to guide Catholic sisters to become synodal leaders who support ecclesial transformation and positive change in their communities.

“Women religious are prophetic voices for the Church and the world ... [This program] responds directly to the Synod’s affirmation that women are ‘teachers of synodality.’ We are investing in their academic formation, pastoral skills, and intercultural competencies to ensure they continue to play a key role in making the Church constitutively synodal at local and international levels.”
— Agbonkhianmeghe E. Orobator, S.J., JST-SCU Dean and Professor of Theology

JST-SCU also teaches its students to serve multicultural communities through Jesuit theological leadership—an Ignatian approach that prioritizes hope, humility, authenticity, and a sense of purpose, helping leaders become aware of the roles God plays in the world and their own lives.⁴ This personal growth is crucial for effectively serving others and properly representing your belief system.

"The JST-SCU community is an extraordinarily rare blend of warm-hearted and passionate individuals, seeking to do remarkable good in the world through humble service, while also pursuing world-class scholarship. Its missional intention to serve people across cultures and traditions deeply resonates with both my personal and academic hopes."
— Alberto Solano Zatarain, New Testament scholar, JST-SCU faculty member

Preparing for Leadership in a Changing World

As one of the country's two Jesuit theological centers, JST-SCU plays a significant role in shaping theology that responds to contemporary challenges facing the Church and society. Theology education for justice, leadership, and solidarity prepares students to address pressing issues—from social inequality to environmental crisis to questions of faith in an increasingly secular world.

JST-SCU's graduate programs—with concentrations in areas such as Synodal Leadership, Theological Ethics, and Christian Spirituality—ready students for diverse vocational paths in ministry, education, and advocacy. The combination of rigorous theological scholarship, Ignatian formation, and intercultural engagement equips graduates to serve as agents of spiritual and social transformation in communities worldwide.

Take the Next Step Toward Your Calling

The Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University is committed to nurturing leaders who live out the fullness of their calling—whether that calling is personal, academic, or spiritual. JST-SCU stands out for its emphasis on collaboration and intercultural engagement, welcoming students from diverse cultures and faith traditions. This distinctive approach prepares every graduate for effective ministry in our complex world.

Through Ignatian and synodal leadership formation, rigorous theological scholarship, and deep intercultural engagement, JST-SCU prepares graduates to serve as agents of transformation in diverse ministerial, academic, and service contexts. The educational environment also guides students on their own personal journeys as they aspire to become all that God imagines.

Explore JST-SCU's graduate programs, admissions information, and financial aid options. Contact us today to learn how JST-SCU's distinctive approach to theological education can help you fulfill your calling.