The academic study of theology aims to investigate the nature of God and interpret various dimensions of human religious experience. Theology studies what people believe about God and the fundamental nature of reality and why they hold those beliefs.
Theology examines what people do in religious groups and institutions to express their beliefs, and what motivates people to adopt a religious outlook on life. Theology studies the past with a view to understanding its influence on the present and the future.
Franciscan Studies focuses on figures and movements connected to the religious way of life initiated by Francis (d. 1226) and Clare of Assisi (d. 1253)
Students who take courses in Theology and Franciscan Studies can expect to learn more about the beliefs, values, and practices of religious people around the world, with special attention to the Christian tradition. Some courses focus on a particular theological theme or issue that has been debated by scholars over the centuries, while others explore the role of religion in contemporary society or examine the relation between religion and other realms of thought (science, philosophy, art, etc.).
In the midst of this diversity, one concern remains paramount: to equip students with intellectual concepts and methods to enable them to think carefully and systematically about the ultimate questions of life in the company of others who have explored these questions before them.
For more information about the Theology and Franciscan Studies program at St. Bonaventure, email
the department chair,
Dr. Joshua Benson.