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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260413T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260413T193000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215951
CREATED:20260313T193054Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T165220Z
UID:10002124-1776103200-1776108600@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:The Cloud of Unknowing
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\n6:00 – 7:30 p.m. | Dinner Provided \nThis event is designated for University of Chicago undergraduate students. Students will receive a copy of the text. You may pick up your copy any time during business hours from Gavin House. Other students interested in attending should contact William Hurley at whurley@lumenchristi.org. \nDescription:\nThe Cloud of Unknowing\, a gem of English mysticism\, is both a guide and a warning to the spiritual seeker. Written anonymously in the 14th century\, the Cloud troubles the relation between man and God\, making spirituality an antidote to the secular world and despair the path towards glimpses of enlightenment. Through the Cloud and the writings of contemporary thinkers and mystics\, we will explore the spiritual lives of medieval laity and differing conceptions of the contemplative life. \nSchedule:\n\nApril 6th: Introduction\, What is Spiritual Life?\n\nExhortation\, Chs. 1-6\n\n\nApril 13th: The Contemplative Life\n\nChs. 7-24\n\n\nApril 20th: The Work of the Soul\n\nChs. 25-46\n\n\nApril 27th: Perfection of the Soul\n\nChs. 46-60\n\n\nMay 4th: Conclusion\, Practical Considerations\n\nChs. 61-75\, Book of Privy Counseling\n\n\n\nOptional Readings: Group Folder \nSeries Description:\nUndergraduate Reading Group \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a number of student-led reading groups at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). The reading groups are usually held over a shared meal and all participants are provided a copy of the text. Any undergraduate interested in a shared reading of a great text is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary.
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/the-cloud-of-unknowing/2026-04-13/
LOCATION:Gavin House\, 1220 E 58th St.\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637
CATEGORIES:Reading Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lumenchristi.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/cloud.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260414T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260414T193000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215951
CREATED:20260313T163314Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T161055Z
UID:10002066-1776189600-1776195000@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:History of Monasticism
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\n6:00 – 7:30 p.m. | Dinner Provided \nThis event is designated for current University of Chicago graduate and undergraduate students. University of Chicago faculty and staff are also welcome to attend. Others interested in auditing should contact William Hurley at whurley@lumenchristi.org. \nThis project is made possible through the support of In Lumine Tuo: Expanding and Sustaining the Catholic Intellectual Tradition Nationwide (grant #63614) from the John Templeton Foundation and the generous support of our donors. \nDescription:\nMonasticism is the form of religious life common to the Latin\, Greek\, Syriac\, and Coptic churches. This course will examine its development from the age of the martyrs to the present and its perennial role within the Body of Christ. Of special interest will be the tensions between the solitary life and common life\, flight from the world versus evangelization\, and the way these tensions create opportunities for renewal. Also of interest is how monasticism adapts itself to new political situations: the collapse of the Roman Empire in the West\, the advance of Islam\, the French Revolution and Enlightenment and the prospects for monasticism in the 21st century. \nSchedule:\n\nMarch 31 – The Call of the Desert (1st-4th)\nApril 7 – Foundations of a New World (5th-7th)\nApril 14 – Vikings to the North\, Saracens to the South (8th-10th)\nApril 21 – Shifts of Gravity: Cluny\, Athos\, and Monastic Reform (11th-13th)\nApril 28 – Cataclysms: The Fall of Constantinople and the Dissolution (14th-16th)\nMay 5 – The Age of Reason and Romantic Re-imaginings (17th-19th)\nMay 12 – Global Monasticism (19th-21st)\n\nSeries Description:\nNon-Credit Course \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a Tuesday evening non-credit course at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). Survey-style lectures are held over a shared meal\, with no advanced preparation required.  These courses offer accessible introductions to key aspects of the Catholic intellectual tradition. All UChicago students\, staff\, and faculty members are welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary.
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/history-of-monasticism/2026-04-14/
LOCATION:IL
CATEGORIES:Non-Credit Courses
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lumenchristi.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/monks.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260415T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260415T163000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215951
CREATED:20260302T221403Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T165003Z
UID:10001923-1776265200-1776270600@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:What is a “Uni-versity”?  Revisiting Newman’s “Idea of a University”
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\n3:00 – 4:30 p.m. | Refreshments Provided \nThis event is designated for current University of Chicago graduate and undergraduate students. University of Chicago faculty and staff are also welcome to attend. Others interested in auditing should contact William Hurley at whurley@lumenchristi.org. The book may be picked up any time during business hours from Gavin House. \nDescription:\nThe crisis of the university has been frequently remarked. Mortimer Adler\, onetime University of Chicago professor\, decades ago prophetically sounded the tocsin regarding the fragmentation of the modern university. Battles over core curricula\, distribution of limited resources\, and arguments over research and teaching priorities are all indications of the crisis. Perhaps the greatest threats to the university in our Űber-Tech culture are posed by S.T.E.M. and AI. \nSo what is a “uni-versity”?  What is its purpose? What should be the goals of a university education? Spurred by the modern spiritual and cultural genius of John Henry Newman\, we will read and discuss his “Idea of a University.” Several months ago\, Newman was declared a “Doctor” of the Catholic Church in recognition of his personal holiness and mastery of the Christian tradition. \nIn the light of Newman’s insights\, come share your experiences at the University of Chicago. What classes have especially impacted you? How have you become a different person? What are your existential desires and hopes? \nSchedule:\n\nApril 1: Newman’s preface [pp. xxxvii-xlvii]  and Discourses One and Two [pp.1-32]\nApril 8: Discourses Three and Four [pp. 32-74] \nApril 15: Discourses Five and Six [pp.74-114]\nApril 22: Discourses Seven and Eight [pp. 114-161]\nApril 29:  Discourses Nine and Ten [pp.161-181]\n\nClass materials are accessible via the class Google folder found here. \nSeries Description:\nReading Course \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a student-centered reading course at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). The reading course is usually held over a shared meal and all participants are provided a copy of the text. Any student interested in a shared reading of a great text is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary. \n 
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/what-is-a-uni-versity-revisiting-newmans-idea-of-a-university/2026-04-15/
LOCATION:Gavin House\, 1220 E 58th St.\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637
CATEGORIES:Reading Courses
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lumenchristi.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/UniversityCollegeUofT_1800s.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260415T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260415T193000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215951
CREATED:20260316T170138Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T014409Z
UID:10002130-1776276000-1776281400@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:An Ordinary Life Well Lived: Marilynne Robinson’s Gilead
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\n6:00 – 7:30 | Dinner Provided \nThis event is designated for University of Chicago graduate students. Other students interested in attending should contact William Hurley at whurley@lumenchristi.org. \nDescription:\n“Love is holy because it is like grace–the worthiness of its object is never really what matters.” – Marilynne Robinson\, Gilead \nMarilynne Robinson’s Gilead tells the story of Congregationalist minister John Ames\, who\, with the knowledge that the end of his life is near\, decides to pen a testament to his seven-year old son\, something for his son to keep close as he grows up without his father. Ames’ reflections are wide-ranging and probing: on faith and doubt\, on fathers and sons\, on forgiveness\, and on return of an old friend’s prodigal child who threatens to disturb the peace Ames has made with his life. We’ll meet each week to discuss the novel and what Ames’ testament might teach us about love\, grace\, parenthood\, and what it means to live well. In a world that prizes speed\, spectacle\, and novelty for its own sake\, Gilead urges the opposite: attention\, slowness\, and fidelity to an ordinary life well lived. This\, Marilynne Robinson says\, “is an interesting planet. It deserves all the attention you can give it.” Join us each week as we do just that. \nSchedule:\n\nWeek 1 (Wed. April 1)\n\nPg. 1–41\n\n\nWeek 2 (Wed. April 8)\n\nPg. 42–81\n\n\nWeek 3 (Wed. April 15)\n\nPg. 82–120\n\n\nWeek 4 (Wed. April 22)\n\nPg. 121–162\n\n\nWeek 5 (Wed. April 29)\n\nPg 162–206\n\n\nWeek 6 (Wed. May 6)\n\n206–end.\n\n\n\nSeries Description:\nGraduate Student Reading Group \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a number of student-led reading groups at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). The reading groups are usually held over a shared meal and all participants are provided a copy of the text. Any graduate student interested in a shared reading of a great text is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary.
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/an-ordinary-life-well-lived-marilynne-robinsons-gilead/2026-04-15/
LOCATION:Gavin House\, 1220 E 58th St.\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637
CATEGORIES:Reading Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lumenchristi.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/71kW3I8WH5L._AC_UF10001000_QL80_.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260416T203000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215951
CREATED:20260313T191832Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T165140Z
UID:10002135-1776366000-1776371400@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:The Master and Margarita
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\nMeets Weekly on Thursdays: April 2\, 9\, 16\, 23\, 30\, May 7\, 14\, 21 \n7:00 – 8:30 (the time has changed) | Dinner Provided \nThis event is designated for University of Chicago undergraduate students. Students will receive a copy of the texts. You may pick up your copy any time during business hours from Gavin House. Please reach out to William Hurley for any questions (whurley@lumenchristi.org). \nA city whose citizens refused to believe in the existence of Jesus\, God or Satan. A certain Satan who arrived in this city—Moscow—with his retinue\, on a hot spring day. A nameless writer pilloried by his novel on Pontius Pilate and his fiery lover who was willing to do anything to save him\, including going to literal hell. A mental facility. A talking black cat who cheated in chess and loved kerosene. The cruel fifth procurator of Judea\, the knight Pontius Pilate. \nA culmination of religious and political satire\, warm humor\, and surreal imagination\, Mikhail Bulgakov’s masterpiece was at the same time ardent and deeply philosophical.  \nOur weekly dinnertime reading group will freely discuss the text in an enriching and inclusive communal setting. In our final session on Week 9\, Professor Caryl Emerson from Princeton University will join us to answer questions and wrap up important themes of the book. \nFor each week\, there will be 30-40 pages of required reading\, and 10-20 pages of optional reading. Our conversation will focus on the required readings. At the end of each session\, I will briefly go over the plot in the optional chapters so that we are on the same page. With that said\, Bulgakov should be a light and delightful read\, and I encourage everyone to do the optional chapters too. The questions and fragmented bullet points\, as seen below\, are guidelines that may prompt conversation but we definitely don’t have to adhere to them. Note that although they are generalized and willfully opaque\, they still contain mild spoilers.  \nCopies of The Master and Margarita will be provided to all participants. Weekly meetings are held over dinner. Weekly reading assignments are kept at or below 30 pages. \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a number of student-led reading groups at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). The reading groups are usually held over a shared meal and all participants are provided a copy of the text. Any undergraduate interested in a shared reading of a great text is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary. \nSchedule:\n\nApril 2\n\nBook One\, Ch. 1-3 (p. 3-41) \nOptional: Ch. 4-6 (p. 42-67)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nApril 9 \n\nBook One\, Ch. 7-9 (p. 68-94)\nOptional: Ch. 10 (p. 95-104)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nApril 16\n\nBook One\, Ch. 11-13 (p. 105-139) \nOptional: Ch. 14 (p. 140-147)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nApril 23\n\nBook One\, Ch. 15-16 (p. 148-170)\nBook One\, Ch. 18 (p. 183-201)\nOptional: Ch. 17 (p. 171-182)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nApril 30\n\nBook Two\, Ch. 19-22 (p. 205-246)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMay 7\n\nBook Two\, Ch. 23-24 (p. 247-282)\nOptional: Ch. 25 (p. 283-292)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMay 14\n\nBook Two\, Ch. 26-27 (p. 293-326)\nOptional: Ch. 28 (p. 327-337)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMay 21\n\nBook Two\, Ch. 29-30 (p. 338-353)\nBook Two\, Ch. 32-Epilogue (p. 363-373)\nOptional: Ch. 31 (p. 354-356)\n\n\n\nSeries Description:\nUndergraduate Reading Group \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a number of student-led reading groups at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). The reading groups are usually held over a shared meal and all participants are provided a copy of the text. Any undergraduate interested in a shared reading of a great text is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary. \n 
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/master-and-margarita/2026-04-16/
LOCATION:Gavin House\, 1220 E 58th St.\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637
CATEGORIES:Reading Groups,Nicklin Fellowship
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lumenchristi.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/bulgakov.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260417T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260417T110000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215952
CREATED:20260312T214355Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T012912Z
UID:10002059-1776420000-1776423600@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:Greek New Testament (Spring)
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\n10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. | Refreshments Provided \nThis event is designated for current University of Chicago graduate and undergraduate students. University of Chicago faculty and staff are also welcome to attend. Others interested in auditing should contact William Hurley at whurley@lumenchristi.org. Students will receive a copy of the texts. \n“In many and various ways God spoke of old to our fathers by the prophets; but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son\, whom he appointed the heir of all things\, through whom also he created the world.” This dramatic opening salvo of the Letter to the Hebrews\, summarizing salvation history\, is one of the most famous and consequential one-liners in the New Testament. But who is this Son? How is he “appointed heir of all things”? What is the relationship between God’s message through him and His message through the prophets? In this reading group\, we will examine\, through careful study of the Koine Greek text\, how the Letter to the Hebrews answers these questions and more\, with an eye to the authorship\, audience\, and genre of this mysterious text. All levels of Greek proficiency are encouraged to join. Advance preparation is recommended but not required. \nSchedule:\n\n\nApril 9*: Hebrews 10.1–18 (Christ’s Sacrifice)\n\n\nApril 17: Hebrews 10.19–39 (Exhortation to Persevere)\n\n\nApril 24: Hebrews 11.1–22 (Examples of Faith Part I)\n\n\nMay 1: Hebrews 11.23–40 (Examples of Faith Part 2)\n\n\nMay 8: Hebrews 12\n\n\nMay 15: Hebrews 13\n\n\n*The first session takes place at the normal time but on Thursday. \nSeries Description:\nLanguage Reading Group \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts at least one classical language reading group at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). The reading groups are usually held over a shared meal and all participants are provided a copy of the text. Any student interested in working on his or her classical languages is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary.
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/greek-new-testament-spring-continued/2026-04-17/
LOCATION:Gavin House\, 1220 E 58th St.\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637
CATEGORIES:Reading Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lumenchristi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Papyrus_13_-_British_Library_Papyrus_1532_-_Epistle_to_the_Hebrews_-_2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260417T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260417T210000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215952
CREATED:20260319T160715Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T013909Z
UID:10002144-1776448800-1776459600@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:What Does Empathy Require? Maximilian Kolbe and Triumph of the Heart
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\n6:00 – 9:00 p.m. | Dinner Served \nThis event is designated for current University of Chicago graduate and undergraduate students. Please contact William Hurley at whurley@lumenchristi.org with any questions. \nDescription:\nTriumph of the Heart tells the story of St. Maximilian Kolbe\, a Franciscan priest who volunteered to take the place of another prisoner in the starvation bunker at Auschwitz. Set in one of the darkest moments of the twentieth century\, the film invites viewers to reflect on how compassion and solidarity can appear even in extreme suffering. This screening will explore the idea of empathy not as a simple feeling\, but as a difficult and sometimes demanding choice in how we relate to others. Before the film\, there will be a brief introduction\, and afterward we will gather for dessert and refreshments to discuss several scenes and the themes they raise about empathy\, solidarity\, and human dignity. Pizza dinner will be provided beforehand\, and all are welcome to join the conversation. \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts student-led events at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). These events are usually held over a shared meal. Any undergraduate interested in a shared discussion of an interesting film is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary. \nSchedule:\n\n6:00 – 6:30 | Dinner\n6:30 – 8:30 | Film Showing\n8:30 – 9:00 | Post Film Discussion
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/what-does-empathy-require-maximillian-kolbe-and-triumph-of-the-heart/
LOCATION:Gavin House\, 1220 E 58th St.\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637
CATEGORIES:Nicklin Fellowship
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lumenchristi.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot-2026-03-18-at-11.17.38-PM-e1773955869898.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260420T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260420T193000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215952
CREATED:20260313T193054Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T165220Z
UID:10002125-1776708000-1776713400@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:The Cloud of Unknowing
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\n6:00 – 7:30 p.m. | Dinner Provided \nThis event is designated for University of Chicago undergraduate students. Students will receive a copy of the text. You may pick up your copy any time during business hours from Gavin House. Other students interested in attending should contact William Hurley at whurley@lumenchristi.org. \nDescription:\nThe Cloud of Unknowing\, a gem of English mysticism\, is both a guide and a warning to the spiritual seeker. Written anonymously in the 14th century\, the Cloud troubles the relation between man and God\, making spirituality an antidote to the secular world and despair the path towards glimpses of enlightenment. Through the Cloud and the writings of contemporary thinkers and mystics\, we will explore the spiritual lives of medieval laity and differing conceptions of the contemplative life. \nSchedule:\n\nApril 6th: Introduction\, What is Spiritual Life?\n\nExhortation\, Chs. 1-6\n\n\nApril 13th: The Contemplative Life\n\nChs. 7-24\n\n\nApril 20th: The Work of the Soul\n\nChs. 25-46\n\n\nApril 27th: Perfection of the Soul\n\nChs. 46-60\n\n\nMay 4th: Conclusion\, Practical Considerations\n\nChs. 61-75\, Book of Privy Counseling\n\n\n\nOptional Readings: Group Folder \nSeries Description:\nUndergraduate Reading Group \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a number of student-led reading groups at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). The reading groups are usually held over a shared meal and all participants are provided a copy of the text. Any undergraduate interested in a shared reading of a great text is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary.
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/the-cloud-of-unknowing/2026-04-20/
LOCATION:Gavin House\, 1220 E 58th St.\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637
CATEGORIES:Reading Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lumenchristi.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/cloud.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260421T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260421T193000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215952
CREATED:20260313T163314Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T161055Z
UID:10002067-1776794400-1776799800@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:History of Monasticism
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\n6:00 – 7:30 p.m. | Dinner Provided \nThis event is designated for current University of Chicago graduate and undergraduate students. University of Chicago faculty and staff are also welcome to attend. Others interested in auditing should contact William Hurley at whurley@lumenchristi.org. \nThis project is made possible through the support of In Lumine Tuo: Expanding and Sustaining the Catholic Intellectual Tradition Nationwide (grant #63614) from the John Templeton Foundation and the generous support of our donors. \nDescription:\nMonasticism is the form of religious life common to the Latin\, Greek\, Syriac\, and Coptic churches. This course will examine its development from the age of the martyrs to the present and its perennial role within the Body of Christ. Of special interest will be the tensions between the solitary life and common life\, flight from the world versus evangelization\, and the way these tensions create opportunities for renewal. Also of interest is how monasticism adapts itself to new political situations: the collapse of the Roman Empire in the West\, the advance of Islam\, the French Revolution and Enlightenment and the prospects for monasticism in the 21st century. \nSchedule:\n\nMarch 31 – The Call of the Desert (1st-4th)\nApril 7 – Foundations of a New World (5th-7th)\nApril 14 – Vikings to the North\, Saracens to the South (8th-10th)\nApril 21 – Shifts of Gravity: Cluny\, Athos\, and Monastic Reform (11th-13th)\nApril 28 – Cataclysms: The Fall of Constantinople and the Dissolution (14th-16th)\nMay 5 – The Age of Reason and Romantic Re-imaginings (17th-19th)\nMay 12 – Global Monasticism (19th-21st)\n\nSeries Description:\nNon-Credit Course \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a Tuesday evening non-credit course at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). Survey-style lectures are held over a shared meal\, with no advanced preparation required.  These courses offer accessible introductions to key aspects of the Catholic intellectual tradition. All UChicago students\, staff\, and faculty members are welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary.
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/history-of-monasticism/2026-04-21/
LOCATION:IL
CATEGORIES:Non-Credit Courses
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lumenchristi.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/monks.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260422T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260422T163000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215952
CREATED:20260302T221403Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T165003Z
UID:10001924-1776870000-1776875400@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:What is a “Uni-versity”?  Revisiting Newman’s “Idea of a University”
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\n3:00 – 4:30 p.m. | Refreshments Provided \nThis event is designated for current University of Chicago graduate and undergraduate students. University of Chicago faculty and staff are also welcome to attend. Others interested in auditing should contact William Hurley at whurley@lumenchristi.org. The book may be picked up any time during business hours from Gavin House. \nDescription:\nThe crisis of the university has been frequently remarked. Mortimer Adler\, onetime University of Chicago professor\, decades ago prophetically sounded the tocsin regarding the fragmentation of the modern university. Battles over core curricula\, distribution of limited resources\, and arguments over research and teaching priorities are all indications of the crisis. Perhaps the greatest threats to the university in our Űber-Tech culture are posed by S.T.E.M. and AI. \nSo what is a “uni-versity”?  What is its purpose? What should be the goals of a university education? Spurred by the modern spiritual and cultural genius of John Henry Newman\, we will read and discuss his “Idea of a University.” Several months ago\, Newman was declared a “Doctor” of the Catholic Church in recognition of his personal holiness and mastery of the Christian tradition. \nIn the light of Newman’s insights\, come share your experiences at the University of Chicago. What classes have especially impacted you? How have you become a different person? What are your existential desires and hopes? \nSchedule:\n\nApril 1: Newman’s preface [pp. xxxvii-xlvii]  and Discourses One and Two [pp.1-32]\nApril 8: Discourses Three and Four [pp. 32-74] \nApril 15: Discourses Five and Six [pp.74-114]\nApril 22: Discourses Seven and Eight [pp. 114-161]\nApril 29:  Discourses Nine and Ten [pp.161-181]\n\nClass materials are accessible via the class Google folder found here. \nSeries Description:\nReading Course \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a student-centered reading course at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). The reading course is usually held over a shared meal and all participants are provided a copy of the text. Any student interested in a shared reading of a great text is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary. \n 
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/what-is-a-uni-versity-revisiting-newmans-idea-of-a-university/2026-04-22/
LOCATION:Gavin House\, 1220 E 58th St.\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637
CATEGORIES:Reading Courses
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lumenchristi.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/UniversityCollegeUofT_1800s.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260422T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260422T193000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215952
CREATED:20260319T171544Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260324T212227Z
UID:10002142-1776877200-1776886200@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:The Turn to Tradition in American Law and Culture
DESCRIPTION:The Turn to Tradition in American Law and Culture\na panel discussion \n  \nJenner & Block Law Offices (353 N Clark St\, Chicago\, IL 60654) \nWednesday\, April 22 \n5:00pm Cocktail and Hors d’Oeuvres  |   6:00 Dialogue and Q&A   |   7:30 End  \nRegister Below \nThis American moment is one of alienation and dislocation. In personal relations\, an “epidemic of loneliness” has emerged as in-person friendships dwindle. Politically and morally\, what once seemed to be long-held convictions seem suddenly up for debate. Is there still a “We the People\,” as the Constitution attests? Does anything still hold this people together? \nIt is at this moment that “tradition” has made a return. Whether in reference to legal interpretation\, moral frameworks\, or even the person-to-person connections that bind one to another\, tradition is having a moment. From the New York Times to the Supreme Court to the Hallmark Christmas movie\, tradition is now being presented as a cure for what ails us. \nBut what is tradition? Is it something that ought to be overcome or stewarded? Is it something static\, or can it develop? What status should long-held traditions hold in the interpretation of the law? What legal status do religious traditions have\, and what can development in religious tradition tell us about development of legal tradition? \nIn this conversation among cutting edge legal and philosophical minds\, Marc DeGirolami will lay out some major themes of his new book The Constitution of Practice: On Law and Tradition. Richard W. Garnett and Jennifer Newsome Martin will join him in conversation on the nature of tradition\, law\, and religion. \nThis event is co-sponsored by the Catholic Lawyers Guild and Jenner & Block Law Office.
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/turn-to-tradition-in-american-law-and-culture/
LOCATION:Jenner & Block\, 45th Floor
CATEGORIES:Downtown Lectures
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://lumenchristi.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Screenshot-2026-03-18-103455.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260422T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260422T193000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215952
CREATED:20260316T170138Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T014409Z
UID:10002131-1776880800-1776886200@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:An Ordinary Life Well Lived: Marilynne Robinson’s Gilead
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\n6:00 – 7:30 | Dinner Provided \nThis event is designated for University of Chicago graduate students. Other students interested in attending should contact William Hurley at whurley@lumenchristi.org. \nDescription:\n“Love is holy because it is like grace–the worthiness of its object is never really what matters.” – Marilynne Robinson\, Gilead \nMarilynne Robinson’s Gilead tells the story of Congregationalist minister John Ames\, who\, with the knowledge that the end of his life is near\, decides to pen a testament to his seven-year old son\, something for his son to keep close as he grows up without his father. Ames’ reflections are wide-ranging and probing: on faith and doubt\, on fathers and sons\, on forgiveness\, and on return of an old friend’s prodigal child who threatens to disturb the peace Ames has made with his life. We’ll meet each week to discuss the novel and what Ames’ testament might teach us about love\, grace\, parenthood\, and what it means to live well. In a world that prizes speed\, spectacle\, and novelty for its own sake\, Gilead urges the opposite: attention\, slowness\, and fidelity to an ordinary life well lived. This\, Marilynne Robinson says\, “is an interesting planet. It deserves all the attention you can give it.” Join us each week as we do just that. \nSchedule:\n\nWeek 1 (Wed. April 1)\n\nPg. 1–41\n\n\nWeek 2 (Wed. April 8)\n\nPg. 42–81\n\n\nWeek 3 (Wed. April 15)\n\nPg. 82–120\n\n\nWeek 4 (Wed. April 22)\n\nPg. 121–162\n\n\nWeek 5 (Wed. April 29)\n\nPg 162–206\n\n\nWeek 6 (Wed. May 6)\n\n206–end.\n\n\n\nSeries Description:\nGraduate Student Reading Group \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a number of student-led reading groups at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). The reading groups are usually held over a shared meal and all participants are provided a copy of the text. Any graduate student interested in a shared reading of a great text is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary.
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/an-ordinary-life-well-lived-marilynne-robinsons-gilead/2026-04-22/
LOCATION:Gavin House\, 1220 E 58th St.\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637
CATEGORIES:Reading Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lumenchristi.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/71kW3I8WH5L._AC_UF10001000_QL80_.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260423T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260423T191500
DTSTAMP:20260411T215952
CREATED:20260309T211139Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T012810Z
UID:10001913-1776965400-1776971700@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:What Does Virtue Have to Do with the Law?
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\n5:30 – Symposium | 7:00 – 7:15 Q & A | 7:15 Wine & Cheese Reception \nThis event is primarily intended for current University of Chicago students\, faculty\, and staff. It is open to the general public. Please contact William Hurley (whurley@lumenchristi.org) for any questions. \nThis project is made possible through the support of In Lumine Tuo: Expanding and Sustaining the Catholic Intellectual Tradition Nationwide (grant #63614) from the John Templeton Foundation and the generous support of our donors. \nThe University of Chicago chapter of the St. Thomas More Society is co-sponsoring this event. \nThe University of Chicago Law School Federalist Society is co-sponsoring this event. \n \nDescription:\nThe American experiment depends on the people holding something in common. But what was once taken for granted is now up for debate\, as all sorts of norms and established beliefs are under attack. \nIs this the result of an improper intrusion of politics and morality into the legal realm? Should the law aspire to be morally naked? Or does the law depend upon a particular set of moral and political virtues?  \nWhat makes for a good constitutional judge? Are personal and professional virtues necessary to good judgment? Or do they inhibit it? \nIs thinking in these terms helpful to address alienation\, lack of trust\, and institutional collapse? Or does it distract from the real issue? \nIn this spirited conversation\, law faculty from a number of philosophical positions will come together to discuss the relationship between law\, politics\, tradition\, and virtue. \nSchedule:\n\n5:30pm – Event Begins – Garnett Frames and Opens with Question\n5:35pm – 5:45pm – DeGirolami Response\n5:50pm – 6:00pm – Miller Response\n6:05 pm – 6:15pm – Pacold Response\n6:20 pm – 6:30pm – Bray Response\n6:30pm – 7:00pm – Moderated Conversation\n7:00pm – 7:15pm – Audience Q&A\n7:15pm – End + Wine and Cheese Reception
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/what-does-virtue-have-to-do-with-the-law/
LOCATION:University of Chicago Law School Auditorium\, 1111 East 60th Street\, Hyde Park\, IL
CATEGORIES:Lectures & Symposia
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260423T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260423T203000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215952
CREATED:20260313T191832Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T165140Z
UID:10002136-1776970800-1776976200@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:The Master and Margarita
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\nMeets Weekly on Thursdays: April 2\, 9\, 16\, 23\, 30\, May 7\, 14\, 21 \n7:00 – 8:30 (the time has changed) | Dinner Provided \nThis event is designated for University of Chicago undergraduate students. Students will receive a copy of the texts. You may pick up your copy any time during business hours from Gavin House. Please reach out to William Hurley for any questions (whurley@lumenchristi.org). \nA city whose citizens refused to believe in the existence of Jesus\, God or Satan. A certain Satan who arrived in this city—Moscow—with his retinue\, on a hot spring day. A nameless writer pilloried by his novel on Pontius Pilate and his fiery lover who was willing to do anything to save him\, including going to literal hell. A mental facility. A talking black cat who cheated in chess and loved kerosene. The cruel fifth procurator of Judea\, the knight Pontius Pilate. \nA culmination of religious and political satire\, warm humor\, and surreal imagination\, Mikhail Bulgakov’s masterpiece was at the same time ardent and deeply philosophical.  \nOur weekly dinnertime reading group will freely discuss the text in an enriching and inclusive communal setting. In our final session on Week 9\, Professor Caryl Emerson from Princeton University will join us to answer questions and wrap up important themes of the book. \nFor each week\, there will be 30-40 pages of required reading\, and 10-20 pages of optional reading. Our conversation will focus on the required readings. At the end of each session\, I will briefly go over the plot in the optional chapters so that we are on the same page. With that said\, Bulgakov should be a light and delightful read\, and I encourage everyone to do the optional chapters too. The questions and fragmented bullet points\, as seen below\, are guidelines that may prompt conversation but we definitely don’t have to adhere to them. Note that although they are generalized and willfully opaque\, they still contain mild spoilers.  \nCopies of The Master and Margarita will be provided to all participants. Weekly meetings are held over dinner. Weekly reading assignments are kept at or below 30 pages. \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a number of student-led reading groups at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). The reading groups are usually held over a shared meal and all participants are provided a copy of the text. Any undergraduate interested in a shared reading of a great text is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary. \nSchedule:\n\nApril 2\n\nBook One\, Ch. 1-3 (p. 3-41) \nOptional: Ch. 4-6 (p. 42-67)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nApril 9 \n\nBook One\, Ch. 7-9 (p. 68-94)\nOptional: Ch. 10 (p. 95-104)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nApril 16\n\nBook One\, Ch. 11-13 (p. 105-139) \nOptional: Ch. 14 (p. 140-147)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nApril 23\n\nBook One\, Ch. 15-16 (p. 148-170)\nBook One\, Ch. 18 (p. 183-201)\nOptional: Ch. 17 (p. 171-182)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nApril 30\n\nBook Two\, Ch. 19-22 (p. 205-246)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMay 7\n\nBook Two\, Ch. 23-24 (p. 247-282)\nOptional: Ch. 25 (p. 283-292)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMay 14\n\nBook Two\, Ch. 26-27 (p. 293-326)\nOptional: Ch. 28 (p. 327-337)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMay 21\n\nBook Two\, Ch. 29-30 (p. 338-353)\nBook Two\, Ch. 32-Epilogue (p. 363-373)\nOptional: Ch. 31 (p. 354-356)\n\n\n\nSeries Description:\nUndergraduate Reading Group \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a number of student-led reading groups at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). The reading groups are usually held over a shared meal and all participants are provided a copy of the text. Any undergraduate interested in a shared reading of a great text is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary. \n 
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/master-and-margarita/2026-04-23/
LOCATION:Gavin House\, 1220 E 58th St.\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637
CATEGORIES:Reading Groups,Nicklin Fellowship
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260424T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260424T110000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215952
CREATED:20260312T214355Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T012912Z
UID:10002060-1777024800-1777028400@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:Greek New Testament (Spring)
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\n10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. | Refreshments Provided \nThis event is designated for current University of Chicago graduate and undergraduate students. University of Chicago faculty and staff are also welcome to attend. Others interested in auditing should contact William Hurley at whurley@lumenchristi.org. Students will receive a copy of the texts. \n“In many and various ways God spoke of old to our fathers by the prophets; but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son\, whom he appointed the heir of all things\, through whom also he created the world.” This dramatic opening salvo of the Letter to the Hebrews\, summarizing salvation history\, is one of the most famous and consequential one-liners in the New Testament. But who is this Son? How is he “appointed heir of all things”? What is the relationship between God’s message through him and His message through the prophets? In this reading group\, we will examine\, through careful study of the Koine Greek text\, how the Letter to the Hebrews answers these questions and more\, with an eye to the authorship\, audience\, and genre of this mysterious text. All levels of Greek proficiency are encouraged to join. Advance preparation is recommended but not required. \nSchedule:\n\n\nApril 9*: Hebrews 10.1–18 (Christ’s Sacrifice)\n\n\nApril 17: Hebrews 10.19–39 (Exhortation to Persevere)\n\n\nApril 24: Hebrews 11.1–22 (Examples of Faith Part I)\n\n\nMay 1: Hebrews 11.23–40 (Examples of Faith Part 2)\n\n\nMay 8: Hebrews 12\n\n\nMay 15: Hebrews 13\n\n\n*The first session takes place at the normal time but on Thursday. \nSeries Description:\nLanguage Reading Group \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts at least one classical language reading group at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). The reading groups are usually held over a shared meal and all participants are provided a copy of the text. Any student interested in working on his or her classical languages is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary.
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/greek-new-testament-spring-continued/2026-04-24/
LOCATION:Gavin House\, 1220 E 58th St.\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637
CATEGORIES:Reading Groups
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260424T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260424T160000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215952
CREATED:20260320T180453Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260320T190850Z
UID:10002145-1777039200-1777046400@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:Being Human in the Digital Age: A Discussion
DESCRIPTION:The dominance of technology in our lives and the precipitous rise of artificial intelligence in the last few years has raised profound questions. We are being asked to think more deeply about what it means to be human\, how we should (and whether we can) live with our creations\, and what kind of life we can share together. How should we understand these new technologies? How does our use of digital technology form us? Is it changing society in fundamental ways? How should we think about the religious aspirations and dimensions of this new technology?  In this webinar\, professor of theology Jared Ortiz will interview philosopher Anton Barba-Kay about his new book\, A Web of Our Own Making: The Nature of Digital Formation.  \nThis event is being cosponsored by the COLLIS Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture\, the Saint Benedict Institute\, Fons Vitae at Duke Divinity School\, the Kateri Institute\, the Harvard Catholic Forum\, and the St. Kateri Institute.  \nFor more information contact Geoffrey Zokal at gzokal@lumenchristi.org
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/being-human-in-the-digital-age-a-discussion/
LOCATION:IL
CATEGORIES:ONLINE
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260425T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260425T193000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215952
CREATED:20260401T011357Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T011357Z
UID:10002152-1777136400-1777145400@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:Conversion In The Modern Church: The World\, The Flesh\, and The Devil (Spring Monastery Visit)
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\n5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Dinner Provided \nThis event is primarily designated for current University of Chicago students. This event is co-sponsored by the Calvert House. Please reach out to William Hurley (whurley@lumenchristi.org) with any questions. \nDescription:\nExperience silence\, prayer\, and chant with the monks at the Monastery of the Holy Cross. In addition to a taste of the contemplative life\, join a conversation hosted by the Prior of the Monastery\, Fr. Peter Funk\, OSB. He will lead a discussion on “Conversion in the Modern World\,” with a focus on “The Devil.” \nIn the wake of Christ’s victory over death and hell\, we will reflect on the third traditional enemy of the soul: the Devil. Based on the writings of Saint John the of Cross\, we will aim to gain insight on the art of spiritual warfare at the subtle level of thoughts and temptations. \nLumen Christi will coordinate rides to and from the monastery for those without transportation. \nSchedule:\n\n5:00 p.m. – Arrival\n5:15 p.m. – Vespers\n6:00 p.m. – Dinner (with reading)\n6:20 p.m. – Silent Prayer\n6:40 p.m. – Discussion\n7:05 p.m. – End Discussion\n7:15 p.m. – Compline\n7:30 p.m. – End
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/conversion-in-the-modern-church-the-world-the-flesh-and-the-devil-spring-monastery-visit/
LOCATION:The Monastery of the Holy Cross\, 3111 South Aberdeen St.\nChicago\, IL 60608\, Chicago\, IL
CATEGORIES:Monastery Visit
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://lumenchristi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/1-Monastery-of-the-Holy-Cross-Chicago-1024x611-1.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260427T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260427T193000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215952
CREATED:20260313T193054Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T165220Z
UID:10002126-1777312800-1777318200@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:The Cloud of Unknowing
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\n6:00 – 7:30 p.m. | Dinner Provided \nThis event is designated for University of Chicago undergraduate students. Students will receive a copy of the text. You may pick up your copy any time during business hours from Gavin House. Other students interested in attending should contact William Hurley at whurley@lumenchristi.org. \nDescription:\nThe Cloud of Unknowing\, a gem of English mysticism\, is both a guide and a warning to the spiritual seeker. Written anonymously in the 14th century\, the Cloud troubles the relation between man and God\, making spirituality an antidote to the secular world and despair the path towards glimpses of enlightenment. Through the Cloud and the writings of contemporary thinkers and mystics\, we will explore the spiritual lives of medieval laity and differing conceptions of the contemplative life. \nSchedule:\n\nApril 6th: Introduction\, What is Spiritual Life?\n\nExhortation\, Chs. 1-6\n\n\nApril 13th: The Contemplative Life\n\nChs. 7-24\n\n\nApril 20th: The Work of the Soul\n\nChs. 25-46\n\n\nApril 27th: Perfection of the Soul\n\nChs. 46-60\n\n\nMay 4th: Conclusion\, Practical Considerations\n\nChs. 61-75\, Book of Privy Counseling\n\n\n\nOptional Readings: Group Folder \nSeries Description:\nUndergraduate Reading Group \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a number of student-led reading groups at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). The reading groups are usually held over a shared meal and all participants are provided a copy of the text. Any undergraduate interested in a shared reading of a great text is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary.
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/the-cloud-of-unknowing/2026-04-27/
LOCATION:Gavin House\, 1220 E 58th St.\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637
CATEGORIES:Reading Groups
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260428T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260428T193000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215952
CREATED:20260313T163314Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T161055Z
UID:10002068-1777399200-1777404600@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:History of Monasticism
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\n6:00 – 7:30 p.m. | Dinner Provided \nThis event is designated for current University of Chicago graduate and undergraduate students. University of Chicago faculty and staff are also welcome to attend. Others interested in auditing should contact William Hurley at whurley@lumenchristi.org. \nThis project is made possible through the support of In Lumine Tuo: Expanding and Sustaining the Catholic Intellectual Tradition Nationwide (grant #63614) from the John Templeton Foundation and the generous support of our donors. \nDescription:\nMonasticism is the form of religious life common to the Latin\, Greek\, Syriac\, and Coptic churches. This course will examine its development from the age of the martyrs to the present and its perennial role within the Body of Christ. Of special interest will be the tensions between the solitary life and common life\, flight from the world versus evangelization\, and the way these tensions create opportunities for renewal. Also of interest is how monasticism adapts itself to new political situations: the collapse of the Roman Empire in the West\, the advance of Islam\, the French Revolution and Enlightenment and the prospects for monasticism in the 21st century. \nSchedule:\n\nMarch 31 – The Call of the Desert (1st-4th)\nApril 7 – Foundations of a New World (5th-7th)\nApril 14 – Vikings to the North\, Saracens to the South (8th-10th)\nApril 21 – Shifts of Gravity: Cluny\, Athos\, and Monastic Reform (11th-13th)\nApril 28 – Cataclysms: The Fall of Constantinople and the Dissolution (14th-16th)\nMay 5 – The Age of Reason and Romantic Re-imaginings (17th-19th)\nMay 12 – Global Monasticism (19th-21st)\n\nSeries Description:\nNon-Credit Course \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a Tuesday evening non-credit course at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). Survey-style lectures are held over a shared meal\, with no advanced preparation required.  These courses offer accessible introductions to key aspects of the Catholic intellectual tradition. All UChicago students\, staff\, and faculty members are welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary.
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/history-of-monasticism/2026-04-28/
LOCATION:IL
CATEGORIES:Non-Credit Courses
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260429T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260429T163000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215952
CREATED:20260302T221403Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T165003Z
UID:10001925-1777474800-1777480200@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:What is a “Uni-versity”?  Revisiting Newman’s “Idea of a University”
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\n3:00 – 4:30 p.m. | Refreshments Provided \nThis event is designated for current University of Chicago graduate and undergraduate students. University of Chicago faculty and staff are also welcome to attend. Others interested in auditing should contact William Hurley at whurley@lumenchristi.org. The book may be picked up any time during business hours from Gavin House. \nDescription:\nThe crisis of the university has been frequently remarked. Mortimer Adler\, onetime University of Chicago professor\, decades ago prophetically sounded the tocsin regarding the fragmentation of the modern university. Battles over core curricula\, distribution of limited resources\, and arguments over research and teaching priorities are all indications of the crisis. Perhaps the greatest threats to the university in our Űber-Tech culture are posed by S.T.E.M. and AI. \nSo what is a “uni-versity”?  What is its purpose? What should be the goals of a university education? Spurred by the modern spiritual and cultural genius of John Henry Newman\, we will read and discuss his “Idea of a University.” Several months ago\, Newman was declared a “Doctor” of the Catholic Church in recognition of his personal holiness and mastery of the Christian tradition. \nIn the light of Newman’s insights\, come share your experiences at the University of Chicago. What classes have especially impacted you? How have you become a different person? What are your existential desires and hopes? \nSchedule:\n\nApril 1: Newman’s preface [pp. xxxvii-xlvii]  and Discourses One and Two [pp.1-32]\nApril 8: Discourses Three and Four [pp. 32-74] \nApril 15: Discourses Five and Six [pp.74-114]\nApril 22: Discourses Seven and Eight [pp. 114-161]\nApril 29:  Discourses Nine and Ten [pp.161-181]\n\nClass materials are accessible via the class Google folder found here. \nSeries Description:\nReading Course \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a student-centered reading course at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). The reading course is usually held over a shared meal and all participants are provided a copy of the text. Any student interested in a shared reading of a great text is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary. \n 
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/what-is-a-uni-versity-revisiting-newmans-idea-of-a-university/2026-04-29/
LOCATION:Gavin House\, 1220 E 58th St.\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637
CATEGORIES:Reading Courses
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260429T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260429T193000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215952
CREATED:20260316T170138Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T014409Z
UID:10002132-1777485600-1777491000@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:An Ordinary Life Well Lived: Marilynne Robinson’s Gilead
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\n6:00 – 7:30 | Dinner Provided \nThis event is designated for University of Chicago graduate students. Other students interested in attending should contact William Hurley at whurley@lumenchristi.org. \nDescription:\n“Love is holy because it is like grace–the worthiness of its object is never really what matters.” – Marilynne Robinson\, Gilead \nMarilynne Robinson’s Gilead tells the story of Congregationalist minister John Ames\, who\, with the knowledge that the end of his life is near\, decides to pen a testament to his seven-year old son\, something for his son to keep close as he grows up without his father. Ames’ reflections are wide-ranging and probing: on faith and doubt\, on fathers and sons\, on forgiveness\, and on return of an old friend’s prodigal child who threatens to disturb the peace Ames has made with his life. We’ll meet each week to discuss the novel and what Ames’ testament might teach us about love\, grace\, parenthood\, and what it means to live well. In a world that prizes speed\, spectacle\, and novelty for its own sake\, Gilead urges the opposite: attention\, slowness\, and fidelity to an ordinary life well lived. This\, Marilynne Robinson says\, “is an interesting planet. It deserves all the attention you can give it.” Join us each week as we do just that. \nSchedule:\n\nWeek 1 (Wed. April 1)\n\nPg. 1–41\n\n\nWeek 2 (Wed. April 8)\n\nPg. 42–81\n\n\nWeek 3 (Wed. April 15)\n\nPg. 82–120\n\n\nWeek 4 (Wed. April 22)\n\nPg. 121–162\n\n\nWeek 5 (Wed. April 29)\n\nPg 162–206\n\n\nWeek 6 (Wed. May 6)\n\n206–end.\n\n\n\nSeries Description:\nGraduate Student Reading Group \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a number of student-led reading groups at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). The reading groups are usually held over a shared meal and all participants are provided a copy of the text. Any graduate student interested in a shared reading of a great text is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary.
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/an-ordinary-life-well-lived-marilynne-robinsons-gilead/2026-04-29/
LOCATION:Gavin House\, 1220 E 58th St.\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637
CATEGORIES:Reading Groups
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260430T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260430T203000
DTSTAMP:20260411T215952
CREATED:20260313T191832Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260327T165140Z
UID:10002137-1777575600-1777581000@lumenchristi.org
SUMMARY:The Master and Margarita
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER BELOW\nMeets Weekly on Thursdays: April 2\, 9\, 16\, 23\, 30\, May 7\, 14\, 21 \n7:00 – 8:30 (the time has changed) | Dinner Provided \nThis event is designated for University of Chicago undergraduate students. Students will receive a copy of the texts. You may pick up your copy any time during business hours from Gavin House. Please reach out to William Hurley for any questions (whurley@lumenchristi.org). \nA city whose citizens refused to believe in the existence of Jesus\, God or Satan. A certain Satan who arrived in this city—Moscow—with his retinue\, on a hot spring day. A nameless writer pilloried by his novel on Pontius Pilate and his fiery lover who was willing to do anything to save him\, including going to literal hell. A mental facility. A talking black cat who cheated in chess and loved kerosene. The cruel fifth procurator of Judea\, the knight Pontius Pilate. \nA culmination of religious and political satire\, warm humor\, and surreal imagination\, Mikhail Bulgakov’s masterpiece was at the same time ardent and deeply philosophical.  \nOur weekly dinnertime reading group will freely discuss the text in an enriching and inclusive communal setting. In our final session on Week 9\, Professor Caryl Emerson from Princeton University will join us to answer questions and wrap up important themes of the book. \nFor each week\, there will be 30-40 pages of required reading\, and 10-20 pages of optional reading. Our conversation will focus on the required readings. At the end of each session\, I will briefly go over the plot in the optional chapters so that we are on the same page. With that said\, Bulgakov should be a light and delightful read\, and I encourage everyone to do the optional chapters too. The questions and fragmented bullet points\, as seen below\, are guidelines that may prompt conversation but we definitely don’t have to adhere to them. Note that although they are generalized and willfully opaque\, they still contain mild spoilers.  \nCopies of The Master and Margarita will be provided to all participants. Weekly meetings are held over dinner. Weekly reading assignments are kept at or below 30 pages. \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a number of student-led reading groups at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). The reading groups are usually held over a shared meal and all participants are provided a copy of the text. Any undergraduate interested in a shared reading of a great text is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary. \nSchedule:\n\nApril 2\n\nBook One\, Ch. 1-3 (p. 3-41) \nOptional: Ch. 4-6 (p. 42-67)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nApril 9 \n\nBook One\, Ch. 7-9 (p. 68-94)\nOptional: Ch. 10 (p. 95-104)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nApril 16\n\nBook One\, Ch. 11-13 (p. 105-139) \nOptional: Ch. 14 (p. 140-147)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nApril 23\n\nBook One\, Ch. 15-16 (p. 148-170)\nBook One\, Ch. 18 (p. 183-201)\nOptional: Ch. 17 (p. 171-182)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nApril 30\n\nBook Two\, Ch. 19-22 (p. 205-246)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMay 7\n\nBook Two\, Ch. 23-24 (p. 247-282)\nOptional: Ch. 25 (p. 283-292)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMay 14\n\nBook Two\, Ch. 26-27 (p. 293-326)\nOptional: Ch. 28 (p. 327-337)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMay 21\n\nBook Two\, Ch. 29-30 (p. 338-353)\nBook Two\, Ch. 32-Epilogue (p. 363-373)\nOptional: Ch. 31 (p. 354-356)\n\n\n\nSeries Description:\nUndergraduate Reading Group \nEach quarter\, the Lumen Christi Institute hosts a number of student-led reading groups at Gavin House (1220 E 58th St.). The reading groups are usually held over a shared meal and all participants are provided a copy of the text. Any undergraduate interested in a shared reading of a great text is welcome to join. No religious affiliation is necessary. \n 
URL:https://lumenchristi.org/event/master-and-margarita/2026-04-30/
LOCATION:Gavin House\, 1220 E 58th St.\, Chicago\, IL\, 60637
CATEGORIES:Reading Groups,Nicklin Fellowship
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