What We Hold in Trust

"Never has there been a time when society stood in greater need of the cultural contribution Catholic universities can make. What We hold in Trust reminds the leaders of those universities that social justice, diversity, and sustainability are not the principal aims of a Catholic education; rather, those important ideas need to be rooted in a philosophical and theological vision that students cannot find elsewhere in higher education."—John Garvey, President, The Catholic University of America

"I applaud the work of these three authors for addressing the threat of secularization of Catholic institutions. Although primarily focused on Catholic higher education, their insights and offerings are applicable to all Catholic ministries. The authors begin by anchoring the purpose of Catholic universities in the tradition of the founding congregations, and upon that, build a framework for ensuring institutional integrity. They remind us that the Catholic intellectual tradition is not intended to preserve the past; rather it serves as the foundation that supports unity of knowledge and discourse of faith and science. As we prepare the next generation of leaders, it is imperative that they are rooted in the mission and identity of these Catholic works, and that they are equipped with the ability to 'pass on the fire' of the tradition to those who desire to create a just and humane world."—Sr. Mary Haddad, CEO & President, Catholic Health Association of the United States

"Congratulations to my former St. Thomas colleagues for writing the prescription for preserving the Catholic dimension of a Catholic university. Their lifelong love for Catholic higher education - amidst its many challenges - is inspiring to all those who treasure the enduring value of a Catholic university education."—Thomas Mengler, President, St. Mary's University, San Antonio, TX

"Both brief and broad, this primer will prove useful to trustees, administrators (including university chaplains or vice presidents for mission and ministry), faculty, and other stakeholders, such as donors, who are involved with advancing the distinctive identity of Catholic colleges and universities. While many of the wise ideas contained within this work have been voiced before, this succinct synthesis will assist existing and emerging leaders in Catholic higher education to steward well the precious mission that they hold in trust. It is indeed a lofty mission of shaping souls."—Homiletic and Pastoral Review