June 23 – July 2, 2023
Dr. Roseanne Mirabella, Professor in the Department of Political Science and Public Affairs and Executive Director of the Center for Community Research and Engagement at Seton Hall University brought a group of at least 15 undergraduate students for an intensive three-credit course in which she and Dr. Robert White, Director of the Académie Cor Iesu, explored the Christian roots of philanthropy in Western society and the nature and meaning of charity from theological, philosophical and public policy perspectives.
Daily classes and seminar sessions examined the influence of Christianity on the development of philanthropy from the first through the twenty-first century. Among the authors studied were Aristotle, the books of the Old Testament, the Gospels, the Rule of St. Benedict, St. Gregory the Great, St. Thomas Aquinas, St. Ignatius of Loyola and others from the Christian tradition. The texts were studied to provide clues for understanding the role of Christianity in the formation of societal expectations and the public and private structures established around philanthropic giving and receiving. Students were also encouraged to examine and discern the ultimate purposes of philanthropy and charity in their daily lives through a series of service-learning encounters with local civil and ecclesiastical authorities, focused on considering the issues surrounding immigration in France.
The course, which also featured cultural experiences in Paray-le-Monial and in Paris, fulfilled Seton Hall University’s Engaging the World Core 3 requirement and could double count as an elective for Non-profit minors, Political Science majors or Catholic Studies majors.
“My time at the Académie Cor Iesu was full of wonder and intrigue. From being in a brand-new country, to learning about a deep religious foundation represented throughout … every class session I attended, and every learning opportunity was full of … excitement. I realized how lucky I was to learn more about … the town and interact with the townsfolk, who took an interest in us and were incredibly welcoming. I recommend the Académie to anyone who wants a different learning experience and is open to other cultures.” – Carlene Philander, Political Science Major and Junior at Seton Hall University.
“Studying in Paray-le-Monial was a transformative experience that allowed me to intimately understand our class discussions of philosophy, including Aquinas and Aristotle, in a private, beautiful setting. Meeting the sisters at the Chapel of the Visitation and praying in the Basilica of the Sacred Heart allowed me to have a closer connection with my faith abroad, while interacting with the local community broadened my understanding of French language and culture beyond my classroom knowledge.” - Lauren-Marie Diawatan, Double Major in Economics & Philosophy and Senior at Seton Hall University.
“Studying abroad in Paray-le-Monial was truly the experience of a lifetime. From being able to create lasting friendships, to being educated by professors who are rooting for our success - If I could relive the experience again, I would.” - Julia Glowacki, Political Science Major and Junior at Seton Hall University.
“This experience helped me see how Christianity intersects with serving those in need. I felt very comfortable and welcomed by those who made this experience possible.” – Michael Olson, Social and Behavioral Sciences Major and Senior at Seton Hall University.
