February 3, 2010 // Uncategorized

Bishop Rhoades speaks at Theology on Tap gathering

Todays Catholic

By Lauren Caggiano

FORT WAYNE — Columbia Street West bar in Fort Wayne was the unlikely venue for a lecture on St. Thomas Aquinas’ contributions to the Catholic Church.

The newly installed Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades spoke at the bar Jan. 28, as part of a lecture series called Theology on Tap. An initiative of the diocese’s Office of Campus and Young Adult Ministry, Theology on Tap is a speaker and conversation series for people in their 20s and 30s so that they may learn about the Catholic faith, make connections between faith and everyday life and enter into conversation with their peers.

Since its reintroduction last fall, the event has been held at several Catholic-owned venues, including Henry’s and Don Hall’s Gas House. Columbia Street West was chosen for this session because it can accommodate a larger crowd. There was no shortage of interest in the event; all tables were occupied by young people eager to hear the bishop’s comments.

Microphone in hand, the bishop opened with a comment about how the series represents the “fullness of the faith.” As a fully communal church, it’s important to emphasize the value of its youth.

Noting the significance of the date, the feast day of St. Thomas Aquinas, he spoke of the saint’s relevance to modern times:
“His wisdom and his teaching can still illuminate our hearts to the mystery of God,” he said.

As a philosopher, theologian and doctor of the Church, St. Thomas Aquinas produced the masterpiece we know today as “The Summa Theologica.” The collection provides insight into the relationship between science and religion and offers a glimpse into God’s identity.

Following the historical background, Bishop Rhoades opened up the floor for a question and answer session. The questions varied in topic and relevance, including one about Bishop D’Arcy’s response to the Obama/Notre Dame controversy.

The youth of the diocese are invited to the next session, on Feb. 11, at 7 p.m., at Don Hall’s Gas House, 305 E. Superior St. in Fort Wayne. Megan Oberhausen, associate youth director for the diocese, will speak about “The Spiritual Food Pyramid: Building Your Prayer Life.”

For more information, contact Cyndy Yonkman, (260) 422-4611 ext. 3314, or [email protected]. RSVPs are encouraged for the event.
Find the groups on Facebook, “Theology on Tap-Fort Wayne, IN” and “South Bend Area Catholic Young Adults.”