Bishop Robert Barron will deliver the commencement speech at The Catholic University of America in 2025. Barron, the founder of Word on Fire, is also an alumnus of the university. The commencement ceremony is scheduled for May 17, 2025. He will receive an honorary degree alongside other individuals. CUA President Peter Kilpatrick praised Barron's work in education and evangelism.
3 months ago
Bishop Robert Barron of Winona-Rochester, Minnesota, will deliver the 2025 commencement speech at The Catholic University of America (CUA) 1 2. The announcement was made by CUA, the national university of the Catholic Church in the United States 1 2. Barron, an alumnus of the university, expressed his gratitude for the invitation to speak at the ceremony 1 2.
Bishop Barron is well-known for his evangelizing work through digital media 1 2. He founded Word on Fire, a global media apostolate, and has a popular YouTube channel with nearly 2 million subscribers 1 2. CUA President Peter Kilpatrick praised Barron's ability to make Catholic teachings accessible to millions through his books, videos, and social media presence 1 2. Kilpatrick also noted Barron's skill in engaging modern culture while faithfully presenting the Catholic intellectual tradition 1. Barron has delivered commencement addresses at other universities and has appeared on CNN, Fox News, and EWTN 1 2.
The commencement ceremony is scheduled for May 17 at 10 a.m. ET 1 2. Approximately 1,300 graduate and undergraduate degrees will be awarded 1 2. Bishop Barron will also receive an honorary degree 1 2. Five other individuals will receive honorary degrees as well: U.S. Rep. Christopher Smith, former March for Life president Jeanne Mancini, Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, Monsignor John Enzler, and Steven Muncy 1 2.
What is the Church's understanding of evangelization's role?
Evangelization is the core mission of the Church, centered on proclaiming the Gospel and inviting all to salvation through Jesus Christ . It involves sharing the Good News, so that humanity might be transformed by its influence . The Church understands this mission as a continuation of the work initiated by Jesus Christ himself .
Evangelization includes the explicit proclamation of Christ's message of salvation . It aims to bring the Good News to all people, inviting them to become part of the Church through baptism . This process involves not only spreading the Gospel to new areas but also transforming existing cultures and societies with the values of the Gospel .
The Church sees evangelization as its inherent duty and deepest identity . It is an all-encompassing activity that includes preaching, celebrating sacraments, and serving others through charity . All members of the Church are called to participate in this mission, using their unique gifts and ministries to spread the Gospel .
Recognizing the changing social and cultural landscapes, the Church has emphasized the "new evangelization," which focuses on reaching out to those who have drifted away from the faith, even if they are baptized . This renewed effort complements both traditional missionary work and the ordinary evangelization within Christian communities . The goal is to help people rediscover the faith and encounter Jesus Christ, who gives meaning and peace to life .
Evangelization also encompasses the promotion of human rights, justice, and peace . The Gospel message is linked to human advancement, development, and liberation, as it is impossible to proclaim Christ's love without also striving for the well-being of all people . This holistic approach ensures that evangelization addresses both the spiritual and material needs of individuals and communities.
The Church views evangelization as its fundamental mission, encompassing the proclamation of the Gospel, the transformation of society, and the promotion of human development. It is a task for all members of the Church, adapting to new contexts while remaining faithful to the core message of Jesus Christ.