Journal of Dave Werthmann

Usually in this BLOG I like to talk about my travels to places I go spreading the word about Aquinas Institute of Theology and attempting to stir up interest in our school among prospective students. But this past weekend we held an Open House and this time prospective students came to us.

As usual, the mix of attendees was impressive: a young woman finishing her undergraduate degree in philosophy at a local state university; a religious sister interested in knowing more about Aquinas’ graduate certificate programs; a college librarian looking to move his career in a different direction; a young mother who recently quit her job in order to stay at home with her three small children but looking to deepen her awareness of God so she can be of greater service to members of her Protestant church community.

Here are some interesting facts about Aquinas Institute of Theology:
Aquinas started in 1925 in River Forest, Illinois as the seminary for the Dominican friars. In 1955 it moved to Dubuque, Iowa. Shortly after Vatican Council II, Aquinas became part of the first ever ecumenical consortium of theological schools. The other schools involved were Wartburg Seminary (Lutheran) and the University of Dubuque Divinity School (Presbyterian). About that same time, Aquinas opened its doors to lay persons who wanted to study theology. 

Aquinas moved to St. Louis in 1981 and affiliated with Saint Louis University which is operated by the Jesuits. In January 2006, Aquinas Institute moved to its current building, just one-half block south of the Saint Louis University campus. Our students have full use of the libraries, computer labs, fitness center, health care plans, and all the religious and cultural activities that take place at the university.

Today,
-Aquinas Institute is the third largest Catholic theology school in the U.S.
-just over 50% of our students are female.
-about 15% of our students are not Roman Catholic - we believe this mix adds much to class discussions and helps each student better understand other denominations while appreciating more their own faith tradition.
-4% of our students come from countries outside the United States, including Canada, India, Vietnam; the Philippines, Nigeria, and Iraq.

We invite YOU to come visit Aquinas Institute anytime you can. If you are considering graduate studies in theology, seeing the building, meeting other students, talking with faculty members, joining us in prayer, and sitting in on a class can help you know whether this is the right place for you. I THINK IT WILL BE !

Give us a call (314-256-8800) or send us an email (admissions@ai.edu) and we can set up time for your visit that is most convenient for you.