For an adequate formation of a culture, the involvement of the whole man is required, whereby he exercises his creativity, intelligence, and knowledge of the world and of people. Furthermore, he displays his capacity for self-control, personal sacrifice, solidarity and readiness to promote the common good. Thus the first and most important task is accomplished within man’s heart. – Pope John Paul II, Centesimus Annus
In about a month, we will be enjoying Acton’s annual assemblage, Acton University. We chose to call it a university rather than simply a conference because of its rigorous intellectual nature. Attendees are asked to attend foundational courses their first year, to be present at every session they have chosen, and to delve into truly substantial topics.
Looking back at our plenary speakers over the years, there is a sense of profound gratitude for all that they have shared with us. Immaculée Ilibagiza spoke passionately about forgiveness after the Rwandan genocide that took the lives of most of her family members. Eric Metaxas, with warmth and humor, told of the heroic life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Diet Eman reminded us, through her harrowing experiences in World War II, that we must protect religious liberty at all costs. My friend Jeff Sandefer told of the great debt we owe to entrepreneurs and why free markets are so important. Makoto Fujimura, through eloquent words and extraordinary art, spoke of the great need we humans have for culture, and why we must protect and support those who create beauty through art.
Our faculty is just as impressive. They represent many major world faiths and Christian denominations. The depth and breadth of knowledge available to our attendees is truly world-class, and I am genuinely thankful to the Acton staff that works year-round to obtain such a marvelous faculty.
While the faculty and plenaries are the “brains” of Acton University, those who attend are the heart. From school teachers to seminarians, entrepreneurs to grad students, those who lead churches to those who lead non-profits: these are the people who make Acton University the great experience that it is. Again, Acton University is not a conference; it’s an in-depth experience of learning, debate, and thoughtful discussion focused on creating a free and virtuous society.
Some people come to Acton University not knowing exactly what to expect, but they know they want to help mend a culture that is in trouble. Others have come for many years, but return again and again, knowing that a new experience awaits them every time.
I know many of you reading this have participated in Acton University. However, I know many of you have not. I urge you to do so, if at all possible. I guarantee you an experience like no other. I hear every year from participants how truly grateful they are to have some place to come and learn things no one else is teaching. This knowledge is taken back to communities, schools, businesses, and families around the world. It is this final part that is the real test of what Acton University is about. What we share must be viable in the real world; it must resonate with people in their homes, their churches, their work, their communities. “A little yeast leavens the whole batch of dough” (Galatians 5:9).
We strive to give our participants not only the very best teaching but also practical ways to change their lives and the lives of those around them as we seek to build a free and virtuous society. Whether you are a farmer (as is Joel Salatin, one of our plenaries this year), a priest or preacher, an artist, a stay-at-home parent or a CEO, Acton University will speak to your creativity, intelligence, knowledge, and heart.
Rev. Robert A. Sirico is president and cofounder of the Acton Institute for the Study of Religion and Liberty in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
