HARVARD CATHOLIC FORUM

Through thoughtful, moderated discussion, this reading group explores the pertinent topic of Catholic-Jewish relations, in terms of their history, theological implications, and modern-day stakes. Both Jewish and Christian perspectives considered, including conciliar texts of the Catholic Church.

Approach learning Latin from the unique perspective of liturgical song. Over the course of monthly classes, participants will read, translate, sing, and interpret some of the beautiful Latin words of the Mass and Divine Office. Discussions will be a mix of translation, theology, and the musical context.

This course will read Augustine’s Confessions; his spiritual autobiography and the story of his search for God. Through guided discussions, Dr. FitzGerald will highlight the interplay of Augustine’s literary, philosophical, psychological, and theological visions. Lunch provided.

Drawing on poetry from Chaucer to Langston Hughes and artists such as Brueghel and Rembrandt, this facilitated course invites participants to embark on shared aesthetic appreciation and participate in integrated discussions about the nature and purpose of the arts in our time. Dinner provided.

Open to all; participants should have completed and have some recollection of one year or more of Latin. Registration required. Read and translate from Vulgate Bible, beginning with some birth narratives in the Old Testament, and completing the Nativity account in St. Luke’s Gospel before Christmas.  Readings distributed for each class; notes and study aids provided. Primary focus is on translation, but the relation between the Old and New Testament nativity accounts will be examined.

Open to all; participants should have completed and have some recollection of one year or more of Classical or Koine Greek. Registration required.   Read and translate 1 Corinthians 10-16 in Greek, including the famous reflection on spiritual gifts and the hymn to love. (We continue from last semester – new registrants warmly invited!) Readings and notes distributed for each class; extensive study aids are available online. Primary focus is on translation, but theology, history, and rhetoric will be touched on as well.

This reading and discussion group explores key insights found in Catholic Social Thought and examines how these ideas can shape how we respond to contemporary social and political challenges. Reading materials & light refreshments provided.

Did you perform in a musical ensemble in high school? Do you love sacred music, but don’t sing in the choir because you’re not a “born singer?” Musicians are not born, they’re made, and this workshop is the perfect place to make friends and gain the confidence and skills to sing at Mass.

Open to all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels, including beginners.

This workshop invites participants to learn and sing chants, hymns, and psalms, chosen for their beauty and/or because they celebrate a season or special feast days, while learning about their history and place in prayer. The first half of the semester will include pieces such as Crux Fidelis, Stabat Mater, and the Dies Irae, and the second half will focus on Advent and Christmas pieces such as Veni Emmanuel, the O Antiphons, Rorate Coeli, Ave Maris Stella, Gaudete, and more.

Offered by HCF Graduate Fellow Adam Ziccardi. To register, or if you have a question for Adam, contact us through the registration link below.

The Ratzinger Memorial Society is rooted in the conviction that theology should form the center of a liberal arts education, and supports an intellectually rigorous exploration of the Catholic tradition. The Saturday morning discussion covers a range of topics, with an opportunity for fellowship. and refreshments provided. The Tuesday Reading Group focuses on the exploration of key texts in the tradition.